Shadowrun

Shadowrun Play => Play-by-Post => Topic started by: Aria on <01-18-16/1232:48>

Title: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <01-18-16/1232:48>

[Saturday July 4th, 2076; Citadel Game Host, Seattle]

Aria stalked though her domain like a caged wildcat, her impossibly long hair lashing tail like, the matrix sculpting twisting away from her diminutive form as if shrinking from her childlike wrath.   The improbable garden scattered glowing seeds in her path in an apparent attempt to distract her but she swept them aside and returned to the central glade that was the hub of her realm.

Summer was sprawled by the Resonance pool, her mind momentarily overwhelmed by trying to follow the twisting threads of fate that writhed in her grasp like cornered devil rats.  Aria gently touched her brow, raising her to wakefulness

“Well?”

“The loci are changing events in London again, there are two of them which is magnifying the effect”

“Guthrie and this Isaint?”

“I think so, it’s always difficult to tell but they seem to be at the heart of the disturbance.  When he was here could you feel it…?”

“That’s your purview child, the Resonance doesn’t speak to me in the same way…We will ask the Old One to watch them, they are on his turf now, he can take the headache of steering them back to the course…”

“And Silk will drag Guthrie off on her task soon won’t she?”

“Silk is afraid to step onto the final leg of her quest, it has been the focus for her life for the last five years and I think part of her is reluctant to see it end, but you are right, she won’t put it off much longer…”


[Saturday July 4th, 2076; The Shard, London]

Torrent stared out of the rain smeared glass at the shattered ruins of the bio dome towers that arched over central London.  There were newer, more prestigious buildings in the Smoke, but he liked the old school styling of this place.  Turning back to the matter in hand he activated his ‘link and placed the call…

“Monarch?  Yes, everything is in place.  They owe me one after the debacle of the last run, not that they will see it that way of course.  I know they disrupted the plan by selling the package to an outside buyer but events panned out more or less the way we wanted anyway.  I will round out the team’s missing members with a couple of others I have on my books.  I should be able to let you know their answer tomorrow…”


[Saturday July 4th, 2076; Elsewhere, London]

@Al, Isaint and Jackhammer

A simultaneous text flashes across your ‘links.  The text is jocular but there is an undertone that can’t be ignored

<<@Team [Torrent]: My sources tell me you three frag ups are still in London.  I’ve got a new business opportunity that you might be interested in.  I’m putting out some feelers to round out the team…seven of you should do it, seven’s lucky!  I’ve got you a drone rigger goes by Halfpint, good force multiplier, a Chaos mage by the name of Deckard, a decker, Robyn (Al knows her apparently) and as you go through them like a dose of salts, another mage, Iris. Confirm your interest and I’ll send you the meet details>>

@Robyn, Halfpint, Iris, Deckard

The ‘call to arms’ comes in from Torrent at a similar time, a meet in the Westend if you are interested, a professional group is being brought together for a moderately time sensitive engagement…with a gentle warning that it might involve stepping into London Below, but that shouldn’t be an issue for hardened runners like yourselves, right?!?

***
_#01

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-18-16/1257:33>

Iris blinked, surprised at the sender attached to the message notification on her display. She was sitting in Juliet house, reading a leatherbound novel that predated the Awakening. She closed it, the black leather with its silver unicorn, tarot card, and rose-embossed cover glinting in the dim light. Setting the slender volume aside, she opens the message from Torrent, the first she'd gotten from him in the ten months since Robyn had introduced them to one another during those first days looking for Calista. She scans it quickly, raising an eyebrow. A professional team, hmm? And with a trip into Below at that! [i]The money had better be really staggeringly good[/i] Iris thought. Still, what's the harm in making preparations and hearing the man out? Robyn vouched for him and his reputation was solid in the Shadow community. That bought him time to make his pitch.

Standing, Iris looked out the large bay window of Juliet house onto the rainy streets of East London. It would be good to do an independent job again. Since Calista, she'd done syndicate work for the most part, with a syndicate's backing, expense account, and micromanaging. Yes, an independent job would be fine, just fine. Turning away from the rain-spattered armorglass, Iris accessed her 'link to summon her maid. It would not do to arrive looking like a drowned rat. As she waited, Iris began compiling a list of what she would need, what she had at her West End doss, and what she would need to take with her.

There was so very much to prepare...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-18-16/1324:01>

Isaint had been awoken from the trance he had painstakingly maintained for the last 12 hours. His legs and thighs hurt from the strain of maintaining the Lotus position. His body wasn't made for that kind of twisting - which was precisely why he had tried anyway. Who knew when he would need to learn to fold up in a hurry.
Normally he would have ignored the link, but this was his work line and even more important it was Torrent's ringtone.
The message flashed into his mind as he adjusted the trodes.
He sighed. Mainly because the text made him acutely aware how little he had accomplished over the last month. Neither had he found the missing members of their last run nor had he ventured into Below to challenge the drug heads that called themselves a house.
 
But he had worked on his body and mind. Other philosophies would have called it enlightenment, but St. George had made it clear to him that it was just light. And fire. Fire that removed impurities and tempered his soul. Which for some reason required him to fold himself up like a hippie...
Yeah, he would have to make sure not to let Al know about his exercises. That thought actually brought a smile to his face. He hadn't seen the small man since Oxford and despite or even because of the guy's habits, he really looked forward to meet him again.

He entered a reply:
<<Greetings Torrent, I'm still working on that other thing, but not making much headway. So yes, I am interested.
And by the way: That Deckard mage wouldn't happen to be called Rick, too? That would be very fortunate indeed.>>

He rose and put his pants on. Next came his latest acquisition: A small, brilliantly blue feather encased in a clear substance that he knew to be the resin of a rare tree somewhere from the Indian subcontinent. It was securely fastened to a thin but durable drilled metal cable that was formed into a perfect loop. The necklace went over his head and the pendant came to rest slightly to the right of his heart. He still needed to learn to control it - a feat Deckard might be able to help him with.

He left the meditation chamber - which was a better name than "former broom cupboard" - and began to assemble his gear from various hiding places.
"Arthur wake up and get the car."
 
#233

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-18-16/1728:53>

Al was sitting on the wet ground chained to the rusty steel tubing that formed the legs of a public park picnic table when the commcall came in. He'd stolen the table from an open space in the center of Walton-on-Thames a week ago, since the weather was getting better and he thought he'd like to eat outside once in a while. He'd had to unbolt it from the cement it sat on, and here it just sat loose on the rocky ground of the clearing he'd conned a family of Travelers off of a month earlier. But it might as well have been bolted down, because he wasn't strong enough to move the heavy thing on his own.

The Thames rolled lazily by on one side of the clearing, his view obstructed only by the big dilapidated boathouse he'd found here. On the other three sides were weeds twice as tall as he was, with a dirt road leading out of them down to A3050. His view of the weeds was obstructed only by the decrepit Caravaner he lived in now, all glorious in chipped paint and peeling laminate. But he didn't care about either of those views. The only beautiful thing in his line of sight was the pack of cigarettes he'd left on a big stone twenty feet away.

Magic was a harsh mistress, and if this was the price he had to pay to add Master Illusionist and Escape Artist Extraordinaire to his long list of life accomplishments, then so be it. He'd figured the cigarettes would make a nice incentive to extricate himself from the current puzzle. After four long hours in the sun, though, water was almost - almost - pushing smokes off his Top Ten List of Ingredients for Eternal Happiness. The neck was the problem. Hands and feet had gotten much too easy, so in addition to the containment manacles on his wrists (put on last, of course) and the flex cuffs on his ankles, he'd gone ahead and put Spike's collar around his neck and chained that to the table. Of course he'd done so with no clear plan for how to escape. If he had a plan, then it wouldn't be magic. Of course.

Spike had watched patiently as he'd tried all manner of contortion before conceding that no matter how hard he tried, his head was not going to get any smaller. Hands and feet soon free, he had then he'd proceeded to crawl in and out amongst the curved legs of the table, over and under the attached benches, working the chain along the steel piping like some oversized child's toy - the ones with the colorful wires and wooden beads found in doctors' waiting rooms and preschools. Then the dog proved utterly worthless at fetching the key Al had tossed onto a patch of wet ground closer to the water - it was just a tiny thing, too small for the animal to see, and had no scent to speak of, especially now mostly submerged in mud.

Almost starting to worry, he was just about to start sawing at the thick leather strap with a jagged rock he'd found - an inelegant solution at best - when the commlink chirped. He barked at the dog, and Spike dutifully went into the Caravaner, retrieved the device - much easier to find, the commlink you watch anime on with your master - from the sticky, beer can-strewn floor, and brought it to Al. And before the dog had returned Al was already congratulating himself on his impending escape from accidental suicide by starvation and exposure.

Calling your BMW 400GT out of the boathouse, dragging the tow ropes out of the trunk, and then using the car to drag a stolen picnic table across a clearing to extricate a tossed key from the mud was probably not how Harry Houdini would have done it. A commlink was not really designed for fine control of an autopilot, and the damned process had nearly broken Al's neck whenever it wasn't trying to choke him to death. No, Al thought, sitting on the metal steps of the Caravaner, massaging his throat with one hand and holding a well-deserved Lucky Strike in the other, that probably wasn't how Harry would have done it. But then Harry hadn't had Al's skills. So you could hardly hold it against the guy.

Al was so busy celebrating that he almost forgot about the ping on his 'link that had inspired his salvation. He read the message from Torrent, decided he wasn't interested, noticed that Isaint and Jackhammer were on the job, and hit the "confirm interest" key. He almost added "Who the hell is this Robyn, and is she hot?" but decided it'd be more fun to wait until the face-to-face. Got up and started throwing things in the trunk of the car.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-18-16/2113:41>

Rick Deckard stood in front of a simple grave in the Kemnal Park Cemetery & Memorial Gardens. That's where his wife was buried. The name on the stone wasn't hers, but the one of her latest fake ID she has had. Only the small quote at the bottom was hers, and signed by her street name, Cora. Such was life in the shadow, recognized only by your closest peers. Deckard had been spending a lot of time here since she passed away two months ago, just talking to her about his day, knowing one way or another she could hear him.

His face was a bit deformed. His slightly swollen left cheekbone had a deep cut covered by a small bandaid, while some bruising could still be seen under his eye. His right cheek was temporary deformed by a thick lump created by the apple tasting lollipop he was keeping in his mouth, a white small stick protruding from the corner of his lips. 

Don't worry honey, he was telling the grave, the Russians decided to rough me up a bit, you know, remind me how it is important for them that everyone pay on time. I still have a couple week to get them the money... I'll find it, no worries. Plus I feel they're still a bit afraid to punch a mage too hard. You know, we are a bunch of insane beings anyway, right? He smiled, mostly from his right side. Mad people. For me, madly in love with you.

His commlink notified him of a message. Torrent, the fixer.

See, it's all falling into place! got a potential run from the fixer I was put in touch with by this faceless ork bounty hunter. Remember?... nevermind. I got to run, I'll back soon. I miss you so much.

Deckard purposefully omitted to mentioned what the message said. His wife had run the Shadows of London much longer than he had, and she had repeatedly reminded him to refuse any job that would send him to the Below.  London was crazy place, but anything above still kept a degree of normalcy. Below, only bad things could happen.
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-18-16/2336:10>

Robyn idly reads the text from Torrent.  Her relationship with him goes back a ways; not close but not strangers.  The fixer has a good rep in the shadows, but had not come any closer to finding Calista than she herself had been.  Her last job had been an expedition for EVO on Borneo, but that had been concluded almost a month ago and she needed something new to keep her from sinking back into despair over the still-missing Calista.  She walks to a bureau in her bedroom and opens the top drawer, reaching for the only items there.  The first is the 'link with the comm code that Calista would have known and will one day call her on and she runs her hands across the device to make sure it is still on and functioning properly.  The second item is an old beater 'link with another comm code set on it; waiting for another call that never came; this one from eight years earlier.  Tears well up in her dead eyes as she considers the effect of just turning off the 'links, but knows that she never will do that, for it would be an admittance that the people on the other end of those 'links really were dead and she cannot allow herself to believe that of either person.  Wiping the tears from her cheeks, she softly closes the drawer.

Robyn carefully considers the implications of the message from Torrent.  It would be nice working with professionals and a short gig fits her schedule right now, and going Below was certainly a plus.  She mentally taps out an affirmative response and asks for an address and a time for the meeting, receiving the requested information almost immediately.  She sends a note to the concierge to cancel her dinner table at the restaurant and descends from her suite to the book shop below to let her assistant, Sarah, know that she was going out and would not return before it was time to lock up and asking her to call a cab.  She walks to the overlarge pillow that sits next to the heat register near the special reading room and senses when the large hound laying on the pillow silently stands.  Robyn kneels next to the beast and ruffles its ears and chin before saying, "Let's go, Al.  Got a meeting to go to."

Robyn fastens a lead to the hound and stands.  She and the dog both know that the lead is unnecessary, but it makes other people feel safer in her presence.  Robyn reaches into one of the many pockets in her latest steampunk frocks and pulls out the little card and attached chain that indicates the hound is a licensed service animal.  Putting the chain around her neck, she makes a soft clicking noise and the hound heels and walks with her to the front of the store, where Sarah holds the door open and says, "Ta Ta, Al.  You keep her bloody safe out there or don't bother coming home."

The cab pulls up at about that time and a door pops open as the driver steps out to help her in.  He stops as the hound sniffs at him then allows him to continue.  Once both woman and guardian are in the cab, the driver returns to his seat and asks for the address.  "Where to, Miss Lysander.  By the way, I saw you last week at the symphony.  You have a right nice touch on that cello.  The missus and I thank you."

"Thank you, Carl.  So nice of you to say that.  And you tell Ginny to let me know if she wants to go again."

The cab pulls away from the Regency Arms, heading to the destination Robyn provides as the driver and his passenger talk about the symphony.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-19-16/0517:43>

Speeding down the highway toward The Smoke, Al ran Torrent's message over in his mind.

First, it was from Torrent. Strike one.
Second, there was no mention of what sort of job it was. Strike two.
Third, there were four, count 'em, four FNGs in the mix. Big fat strike three, especially after the last person the ork fixer had set them up with.

Three strikes and you're out.

Unless Isaint and Jackhammer were, indeed, on board. He'd work with them any job anywhere.

It was just too bad they couldn't pick their own teammates.

Supposedly, he already knew the decker. Robyn. The Y indicated a female, though there was no telling with Brit names. He was racking his brain, but couldn't come up with anything. Hell, he didn't know any deckers in London at all.

Well, except for the one. Maybe. He fingered the tattered piece of paper in his pocket. It had almost disintegrated by now, but it was still there. Before the ink had smeared to illegibility, there had been a short message, and a commcode. Neither ever forgotten. Nor used.

Nothing for it. He still remembered Honesty's reaction. He'd told her. Been almost eager to, in hindsight. He thought she'd get it. She hadn't. Her boss had, but that bitch didn't really count. Hell, most days Al himself didn't get it.

It was a black mark he was pretty sure he could never erase. And he could never dial the commcode on that slip of paper until he did.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-19-16/1132:50>

The cab pulls up to its destination a block or so shy of the meeting place and the driver looks over his shoulder as he pops the doors open.  "Here you go, Miss Lysander.  Let me help you out."  Carl steps from the drivers seat to offer a hand to his passenger, who gracefully accepts it and steps out, followed by the large black hound.  Carl shudders a bit at the sight of the dog's red eyes even though it has been in his cab many times.  "Do you want me to wait here, Miss Lysander?"

Robyn turns her sightless eyes to look at the cab driver, shaking her head as she slots a stick in the door slot of the cab, making sure to apply a nice tip.  "No thank you, Carl.  I may be some time.  I will call if I need a ride home."

Carl nods and climbs back into his cab, accelerating to get to his next fare.  Robyn stands on the sidewalk, opening her umbrella as a few drops of rain presage an even greater downpour.  She sends out her senses, probing ahead and around her.  The casual passerby would see a pretty Elven woman with dark chestnut hair that falls in a ponytail to below her waist.  She is wearing the latest steampunk dress, exposing a good bit of  very nice leg, but quite demur at the chest.  She is wearing large dark glasses and carrying a silver and ivory inlaid walking stick that has a seven-headed silver serpent at the top.  Several people gulp at the sight of the hound and either cross the street or walk as close to the building as possible as they pass.  For his part, the hound watches everyone as everyone is a potential threat to his mistress.  It has taken several years of training to forge the relationship the pair has.  Finally satisfied, Robyn clicks her tongue and walks off, a walking stick in her hand and the hound at her side.  Her sonar gives her a near-perfect "view" of the street and area around her, but she plays the blind girl well after many years of practice.

Robyn stops under the entryway to the building and takes the umbrella down and puts the crook over an arm and waits a few moments. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-19-16/1302:49>

Isaint was on his bike driving at the sedate speed grid guide stipulated. In unwavering distance behind him an off-road vehicle, type Morgan Thundercloud followed him. It bore the emblem of a private ambulance business but missed any signs of a weapon mount. The windows were mirrored and didn't provide any hint as to who was inside.

Entering London was - as usually - an exercise in patience and self control. But at least it gave Isaint time to think:
Torrent seemed to have called what was left of the last run's team - again for a high profile task. That meant tangling again with AAA's and governments. His only worry was that he'd need to relocate again after this gig. The B&B he had stayed at before had proven to be to inconvenient for his studies and investigations. Not to mention that there had been a very suspicious pizza van parking a full 24 hours in front of it. So he had gotten the hell away and used one of his other aliases to rent a little cottage far outside the city. Providing adequate security had proven to be expensive, but so far nothing had disturbed his meditations.

With a mental command he send a message: <<Arthur: City protocol one>> , <<Susi, Agent cluster: Overwatch protocol, full alert>>

#234

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <01-19-16/1558:54>

[Saturday July 4th, 2076; Somewhere Above, London]

@Isaint:

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <01-18-16/1324:01>

<<Greetings Torrent, I'm still working on that other thing, but not making much headway. So yes, I am interested.
And by the way: That Deckard mage wouldn't happen to be called Rick, too? That would be very fortunate indeed.>>

<<Then you'll be delighted to hear that this one is likely to take you back down there!  I've had to do some politicking after your efforts last month but I think I've managed to wipe away the black mark on you...that said those freaks work to their own set of incomprehensible rules so it is also possible that the favours I called in have been for nothing!  I've got two team members with experience Below so they should be able to guide you through the arcane customs down there.  I suggest you listen to them!  And Deckard, yes, his name's Rick, I trust that won't be a problem?>>

[Saturday July 4th, 2076; Old West End, London]
 
You’ve seen the urban hell hole that is the Redmond Barrens.  It’s bad, very bad; but it’s outside the city proper, and it’s sort of quaint in its own way. Nature is retaking some of the outer districts, there’s the odd tree growing in the middle of the street.
 
In contrast, the West End Overground is what happens when a Barrens pops up right in the heart of a city and goes vertical. It’s all the grime, the muck, the joy girls and boys, the chip heads, and the nonchalant violence of the Barrens all stacked into a postage stamp of a district, populated by buildings that look to be well on their way to yielding to the inevitability of gravity.
 
And this is where Mr. Johnson wants to meet. Shadowrunning, it’s hard not to love all the nice places this profession takes you.

Angel's might well have been a pleasant place, at least two decades ago, but this is the place stipulated and sure enough the ramshackle eatery has an armed sec goon stationed near the door keeping an eye on the intrepid entrepreneurs that have ventured out of their holes.  A second stands in the shadows towards the back, and sitting in a booth, apparently completely at ease, is the person who can only be Mr J.  He has the bearing of a fit man, but his physique is beginning to sag around the edges.  He certainly doesn't look the type to brook any nonsense...
 
***
_#02

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-19-16/1713:45>

The blaring music reverberated around the bare brick walls of his garage and Halfpint downed tools and warmed up his hands around his cuppa, taking a swig of the lukewarm tea that had sat there for a while as he'd battled with the engine management system.
The grey sky seemed set for the day and a fine drizzle lapped at the overhang of the swinging garage door and rattled out of time with the driving 4/4 rock beat on the audiocast.
It did nothing to cheer him up, but the vibration of his expensive link in his overall pocket certainly got his attention. It was his "working" link.
He smeared an oily hand onto his overalls and flicked the screen live and replied to the message with a dictation so as not to mucky the screen further.
//Meet sounds good to me. What time and where? Any ideas on duration or pay so far?//

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-19-16/1817:23>

Isaint replied: <<Thanks for the effort, that might be helpful. Or not. Who knows what those drug freaks do or don't do.
No, that won't be a problem. On the contrary. Worked with Rick before. Stand-up guy and family man.>>

Entering the West-End was nothing Isaint did lightly. Finding a legal parking space was nearly impossible - luckily the city didn't as a habit send parking enforcing officers here.
Isaint locked his bike  and parked directly next to the off-road ambulance <<Arthur, Guardian Protocol, Threat Level Two.>>
From inside the car the faint sound of a magazine change could be heard, followed by a very loud click.

Isaint took of the helmet and the mask. He had taken the time to sculpt his face into a resemblance of a certain pro wrestler with a very prominent chin. As a personal touch he had added a thick mustache and bushy eyebrows. His coat had chanced color into charcoal black. Most of his weaponry was still stashed within the smuggling compartment of the car. Only the tasers and handguns were on his person.

Confidently he walked into the restaurant but with the strong inclination not to order anything besides a bottle of water - if that.

In this guise he looked around. As was to be expected, the West-End brimmed with strange looking and in most cases obviously criminal looking people. Isaint didn't exactly avoid eye contact, but he did his best not to provoke anyone by staring. Torrent had given them the booth number and after only a moment search he found his destination.
Wordlessly he sat down.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-19-16/2119:34>

Shady places for shady business... at least no authority would come bother in this corner of town. The West-End reminded Deckard of Home... well, his home city more precisely, Seattle. He had spend his share of time in the Redmond Barrens. And something very familiar here kept bringing him memories. It was like a condensed version of the Barrens, spreading up instead of out, but a perfect example of humanity's dystopian decadence.

He had parked his bike alongside a group of other bikes of all makes and shapes. He removed his goggles and passed his fingers through his hair to reshape it and remove the drizzle he received. This morning had been so beautiful, now the sky had turned gray and random drizzles were just a warning of a more imminent shower. Such was summer in England!  He stuffed the goggles inside the small duffel bag hanging across his chest and on his side, adjust the collar of his argentum coat, and made his way to the meet.

Arriving at Angel's, Deckard made eye contact with the security goon, nodded at him, and walked inside with a confident stride and demeanor, after politely trying to avoid the seemingly blind elf girl and her dog. Inside, the strong smell of frying oil was the first thing that caught his senses, followed by the presence of who should be the Johnson, the man who was about to make his life certainly miserable for a few days, but with hopefully a credstick that will make it worth it. He had no intention of playing hide and seek games with the Russians. He needed the money, pronto.

He looked around to see if he was the first. He was slightly early but so were most Runners in this kind of meetings. Feeling the place and all. He approached the booth, grabbed a chair so to be seated on the outside and still leave room for more to come. London is so charming in the summer, don't you think? he awkwardly asked to make conversation.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-20-16/0050:47>

Robyn stands out down here like the proverbial sore thumb.  Her outer garb is a dark brown tail coat, with more straps and buckles than are necessary and seem to have no purpose other than to be decorative.  The skirt is dark green and cut open to show her very nice legs to good advantage.  Two layers of frilly petticoats peek from beneath the skirt, barely concealing the joining of her legs, which are covered in thin silk stockings of a nude hue that makes them seem uncovered.  Her waist and stomach are cinched in tightly with a corset of the same color as the tail coat and similarly decorated with an abundance of straps and buckles.  The bodice conceals what it is supposed to while emphasizing her plentiful curves in an eye-catching and pleasing manner.  She is wearing oddly shaped sunglasses consisting of several sets of lenses and a number of cogs and gears,  A small, frilly hat sits at an angle on top of the luxurious locks of chestnut hair that fall in a ponytail to well below her waist.  Fingerless gloves of dark green lace cover her hands and extend up her arms past the elbow.  A large watch-faced amulet on a silver chain and a placard on a smaller chain seem to be her only jewelry.  The entire right side of her face is tattooed in the shape of a seven-headed serpent and those familiar with London Below would recognize it as the symbol of the Earl's House. 

Currently she has a folded umbrella tucked under her left arm and an engraved walking stick in her right hand.  The stick is a dark wood with silver and ivory decorations.  The knob is also in silver and ivory and depicts a seven-headed serpent.  The shadow at her feet does not get much attention at first, but certainly does if anyone approaches the girl too closely, as in too closely in the Hell Hound's thinking.  The beast is large, standing at just a meter tall at the shoulders and weighing in at just a bit over 23 stone, or 325 pounds.  The combination of coal black fur and red-rimmed eyes is usually enough to keep unwanted company away.  The wisps of smoke coming from the nostrils just add to the effect.

Robyn is standing near the entrance to the Angel, stretching out her senses and getting a feel of the location.  Her radar has already peeked through the relatively flimsy wall of the diner and established where the Johnson is likely to be.  Johnsons are Johnsons and most tend to not be overly original and this one seems to be no different.  She switches off the radar and access her ultrasound sensor, which is fairly useless for seeing through the wall, but will be of use once inside.  Her other senses are already working in overdrive, sifting through the noise and smells coming from inside the building.  She slips a micro drone from one of the many pockets of the dress and commands it to park above the entrance and keep an eye on the area near the door, especially noting arrivals and departures.

Two men approach and pass into the building, one even bothering to take a look at her.  They walk with the confidence of people that know what they are about, a type she is intimately familiar with after years running with just such a type.  She smiles to herself and whispers, "Show time."  She makes a strange, low clicking noise and the form of the Hell Hound rises almost silently and takes up a position at her left side and she turns to enter the diner.  The security bouncer at the door looks like he is going to raise an issue about the dog, but Robyn shows the placard that indicates the dog is a licensed service animal, which gives the bouncer an excuse to just step aside and let her and the animal in.  She walks more carefully than she really needs to, using the walking stick to help support her as she moves to the booth she had earlier identified as belonging to the Johnson.  As suspected, the two men she had identified as potential members of the team were already sitting at the booth, one on a chair at the end of the table.  Robyn walks to the table and says, "My name is Robyn Lysander and I believe that I am invited to this meeting.  Would anyone mind if I sit at the edge of the booth?  I am afraid that Al here does not like it when I am not near.  I know that I am speaking to professionals here, so no one will misunderstand fact from simple exaggeration when I ask that you please do not try to pet Al."  The woman gives another soft click of her tongue and the Hell Hound obediently lies down next to the booth, its head swiveling to observe the room.  Robyn looks around at the others, "I do not believe that I have met anyone here.  And are we expecting more than the three of us?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-20-16/0640:38>

Pressed and dressed and ensconced in the front seat of her green-trimmed black Hyundai Equus, Iris looked across the street at Angel's and suppressed a shudder. What in the fragging Gods of the Rime did they serve here, anyway? And how did it stay open? Angel's was a pit and no mistake, and this assessment came from a woman who knew every dive bar between Shadowtown and Shoreditch. Iris shook her head. Meetings were important, and the venue was just as significant as the time, date, method of contact, number of people, and a host of other things. Meeting at a place like Angel's suggested either a fixer down on his luck or putting together a job that couldn't be talked about in more congenial surroundings.

Of course, the initial communication had mentioned Below, so "congenial" was probably out of the cards from word "go."

Iris sighed and stepped out of the car. Quickly, she checked herself over, first with her hands and then in the driver's window reflection. Her small purse was beneath her cloak, containing her ID, a credstick, a Hermes Ikon, and a few other necessities for the haute couture runner, like lipstick, a makeup compact, trauma patches and a slap doses of pharmaceutical grade kamikaze.Her long knife, a modest weapon focus and her only close in combat tool was tucked away inside the outside edge of her left boot, the biofiber pocket hiding the magical weapon, and her wand was opposite it in the other boot, secure in its own pocket of magic-concealing material. The boots themselves were expensive black suede Ami Feathers with turned-down tops, ten-centimeter heels, and silver buckles, and the rest of her outfit continued the trend, a short-skirted, high-necked navy blue Armanté dress beneath a Jean-Paul cloak that currently looked like crushed black velvet. It wasn't, of course- the water from the ever-present London drizzle rolled off it as though it were coated in teflon- but it looked and felt luxurious and expensive rather than functional. It had a wide, deep hood that Iris drew up, covering most of the flowing golden wave of her hair.

Beneath the black cloak, her ivory skin and luminous eyes stood out more, their opalescent quality alarmingly obvious, their color changing with every blink or look. Her carmine lips pursed for a moment as she considered how to enter. The cloak and hood was a touch dramatic, but they were coming back into fashion just now and the weather offered a handy excuse for the garment and all the tricks it afforded her. Besides, if anyone recognized her, the 'provocative Grim Reaper' look would only reinforce the reputation she had won working for the syndicates. Manicured fingers adjusted the cloak clasp just above her generous chest and Iris nodded at the curvy, slightly mysterious reflection in the window, then stepped across the street, the soles of her boots splashing in the rain- and soot-clouded puddles on the pitted old street.

Entering Angel's, Iris caught the tale end of a statement from a voice she knew well. "...expecting more than the three of us?" The words brought a smile to Iris' face. Not only did she know now which table the 'runners had taken for themselves, but she had al teast one person she knew and trusted to at least check the offer over with her. She glanced at the other two, seeing a large-ish, rough looking fellow and a smaller, slicker-looking companion along with the familiar form of Robyn. Her perception slid over into the astral and she did a double-take at what she saw. Both magically active, and prodigious talents as that. She nodded to them- the bow of her head to the other mage a fraction of a centimeter deeper than the one to the larger man- knowing that as soon as they took notice of her, she would be subject to the same scrutiny. The half-dozen spells hung about her and her not-inconsiderable talent would be plain to see, and their reactions were bound to be informative. Even giving nothing away told her something, and at the very least it would establish her bona fides.

Coming up behind Robyn, Iris reached out one small hand to lightly touch the blind decker's shoulder. "Hello, Lady Lysander, gentlemen." Iris said in her rich, glamour-infused voice. She lowered her hood to reveal her dryad's ears and elfin features. "I trust you are also here about a job application?"

[spoiler]CHA 12, Glamours, and head to toe designerwear. I don't know if she's going to get a good reaction or a bad one, but she tends to get a reaction, certainly.[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-20-16/0717:34>

Isaint suppressed a grin as he recognized Deckard. What had it been? Two years already? With his deep voice he said:
"Mr Deckard, how nice to see you again. Yes, the weather is splendid for this time of year - one can never have enough sun, at least of course until one has to much of it."

Before a reply could come, he became aware of an elvish looking lady with - if he wasn't mistaken - a dog that had most likely some hell-hound in him.
When she called out the name of the dog, Isaint couldn't suppress a short laugh:
"Your dog is called AL? Oh, I can't wait to see his face when he hears that. Yes please, take the seat, but be warned: This bar is bad enough that a quick evacuation might be necessary. So don't be surprised when we just grab you to get out of here..."

The rest of the sentence trailed of as the next guest arrived.
For a moment Isaint thought Goodnight had ventured above ground again, but than he realized that he looked at a completely different person. Only a moment later he realized that it was the aura that had let him confuse the two.
He closed his mouth and avoided only narrowly to croak: "That is correct. Welcome."

#236

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-20-16/1029:36>

Robyn froze at the words of the unknown man with the deep voice, her mind racing.  It must be a coincidence.  She carefully keeps her voice even as she says, "You know an Al as well?  It is a common name, I suppose.  I named him after a close friend I met in Cambodia eight years ago.  Would that be the Al you know?  And if you are planning on a quick grab, I would ask that you allow Al here to get a good sniff.  Not that I would terribly mind a strong man and a quick grab, but he might have an objection."

Robyn clicks her tongue and the massive Hell Hound rises and approaches the two men, setting their scents in as friendlies until his mistress indicated otherwise, then returning to his place at the end of the bench.  Robyn's Fly-Spy that she had left on sentry duty outside had picked up Iris' arrival fed her the information.  The Dryad walks up to the table and puts a hand on Robyn's shoulder and the decker shifts to stand.  "Iris.  What a lovely surprise.  And here I was wondering if I would know anyone.  And it does appear that the job applicants are gathering."  You know Al, but do you know our companions?  Neither do I.  Gentlemen, may we have your names at least?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-20-16/1046:42>

The neighborhood was a hell of a lot nicer than his car, which was always a minor concern. He'd spent the last month rebuilding his shop after his last one got burned down, so he hadn't had time to juice up the anti-theft like he'd planned.

He parked in front of a fire hydrant, locked her up, and stopped in his tracks. The place he was going called itself Angels, and apparently they catered to same. He watched her as she traversed the sidewalk and blew past the door guy. A skyscraper build atop skyscraper boot heels, pricey blue skirt that barely covered her pert ass, and then a black cloak sending the whole thing over the top and utterly failing to conceal about the most beaudacious set of ta-tas he'd ever seen on any woman that thin. He wasn't really into women that wore money for clothes. Always vaguely suspicious of anyone that put that much thought into how they looked. But this one stood out - easily sim-star class. A peer in that sense, when he thought about it. Definitely worth an eye-sip or two, even if she wasn't his cup of tea.

And of course, standing out like that, he had to wonder if she was one of the new bunch of sociopaths he'd be paired up with tonight. Probably not the decker - he supposedly knew her, and he'd remember this one. Iris - some sort of devil worshipper? Or maybe just the highest-priced whore he'd seen on four continents. Whatever. Once she was in he dodged a few passing cars and handed the doorman a fifty, nodding at his car. Looked at the guy's face just long enough to let him know he'd remember it.

Then he lit a fresh Lucky, stepped in, and took his time with a few drags while he scanned the room.

Of course, she guided him to the right table like a lightning bug on swamp water. Walking up, there were already several figures present, though none he knew - no, scratch that, big tusker with thick eyebrows and a healthy patch of nose-spinach caught his eye and gave a smile. Isaint, playing musical faces again. The ork's eyes flipped down in amusement to a huge dog lying next to the booth - but scratch that again, the red eyes gave it away as an abomination. He couldn't think why his friend would be amused by that, but he didn't have time for pets - there were people to size up. Still crossing the room, he spotted two more men - one would be the other Satanist, Deckard, and the last guy the Johnson. Probably the arrogant-looking one of the two. Or one could be this Halfpint, but neither looked like the name fit.

The sim-star had her hood off now - natch a keeb. She was standing with her hand on the shoulder of the last one. She had her back to Al's approach - a woman with a long ponytail, ridiculous little hat, and some sort of Victorian-looking jacket. She was apparently the owner of the mutant, which was now rising and giving Isaint and the one he'd decided was Deckard a good greeting sniff. So she must be Robyn, he thought, as he closed the last few steps.

He started speaking from behind her, even as she started turning to face him. "So how is it we know each other, darlin'?" he asked and then he saw her face and it was like someone had hit him in the sternum with a sledge hammer so he missed a beat, but just one, before continuing, "Well...as I live and breathe." He'd stopped moving, leaving some distance between them, and he congratulated himself on still being able to speak since his mouth had gone as dry as Oklahoma dust.

 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-20-16/1100:20>

"If you are talking about Al Guthrie, than yes. Seems like this man has been everywhere and met everyone." Without hesitation but slowly Isaint stretched his arm towards the hell hound to let him get his scent.
"I gather your Al is well trained otherwise he could come into conflict with Spike. As I understood Torrent both of them should turn up any minute."
He grinned at Deckard:
"And I apologize for my rudeness: I am called Isaint. Pleasure to meet you.

I don't suppose one of you Ladies has the handle Pintsize, so I guess you are the promised matrix specialist and you," he turned to the dryad, "are one of our two arcane specialists.

This young man here is Mr. Deckard, likewise an arcanist and a very good chummer to have in your corner."

While he said that he had spotted Al and grinned again, but saying nothing so he wouldn't spoil his friends entrance.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-20-16/1413:50>

Oh lord, not Al Guthrie! Iris stifled a laugh as she realized who the aggressively ugly man had to be, and then another as she saw the look on his face when he spotted Robyn. She'd gotten the- probably edited- story of their time in Cambodia when Robyn had gotten her incredibly overqualified seeing eye dog, so at least she knew that he was a good man in a tight spot, but she'd never expected to actually meet him! Iris looked him up and down. There was something about him, despite his craggy features and general aura of disheveled-ness. It was like...like standing next to the primal essence of a man, when the veneer of society had been stripped away. He was most definitely not attractive, being far too old and far too rough-hewn for even her broad tastes, but all the same, he had a certain draw to him. She let her senses slide over into the astral again, then stifled a sound of surprise.

Was there anyone on this team, save Robyn, who wasn't magically active? And where had Torrent found so many awakened 'runners?

Shaking her head slightly, Iris turned her gleaming eyes back to the two men at the table, the light striking them a vivid aqua for a moment. "I'm afraid not." She told Isaint, her posh upper-crust voice apologetic. "As The Lady here has named me," she said The Lady as though it were a proper title rather than a reference, "I am Iris." She curtsied to Isaint and Deckard. "A pleasure to meet you both." Turning to Al, Iris continued, "The inestimable Mr. Guthrie needs no introduction, of course." Another curtsy, this one with a hint of a smile playing about her pouting lips.

Iris snagged a chair from a nearby table and dropped gracefully into it, crossing her legs and draping the folds of her cloak around her. An idle adjustment of the top of one boot confirmed that her wand was within easy drawing distance. She didn't check the difficulty of pulling the knife. With four other 'runners here, if she needed the knife out in the open like this they were probably already so far up drek creek that no paddle would save them. Nodding to Isaint, Iris confirmed, "You have me pegged correctly, Mr. Isaint. I am a mage. Though considering the formidable awakened power concentrated at this table, I suspect that I am contracted as much for my contacts and my appearance as my sorcerous prowess."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-20-16/1640:07>

Deckard was surprise when the big man mentioned his name. He couldn't put a name on the face. But a mage knew oh too well to not trust simple senses like sight. He switch his senses to astrally perceive and though he preferred to usually wait for every one to be here to do so, he read the aura in front of him. ISaint! What a surprise. Of course, outside of a grin on his face, he didn't mention anything about the man. If he wanted to have a cover, Deckard wouldn't be the one blowing it up for an accolade with an old time acquaintance.

Sensing another arrival, he turned around to this glowing aura. The sheer power took his breath away; so many powerful spells auras were like dancing around her. Even more interesting their Mana seemed to be like looping on itself sustained only by some sort of essence and their own power. It was fascinating, and also the sign of a Mage initiated in the Art of Metamagics, rare and powerful individuals. The fascination caught him off guard though, realizing than, from the outside, he was probably just starring! Rude. He revert to his normal senses to be as shocked. He could almost still feel the aura emanating from the rich and glamorous looking elf alike woman standing in front of him. Instinctively he stood up. That was what was proper in high society, where the doll alike woman certainly looked like she belonged. Feeling a bit stupid, as he was the only one to have stood up and more rude of him he hadn't bothered doing so with the steampunk blind girl, he sat down. They were as far remote from high society as one could be while staying in the London sprawl.

Then came the one by the name of Al Guthrie. The rough looking man was definitely more dressed like he belonged here, yet for some reason Deckard had yet to understand, he stood up again from his chair. Not even knowing if his out-of-place manners were noticed, but still feeling embarrassed, he left his chair to either the Sorceress or Al to take, and squeezed inside the booth next to ISaint. He remembered and cursed his mom, teaching him the good manners to always stand up and be courteous to women and the elderlies.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-20-16/1651:12>

Jackhammer was reclining on a dilapidated couch, holding an ice pack to his lower ribs and swiping his other hand over his 'link to change channels on the trid player. A few empty takeout boxes littered the floor and plastic coffee table-turned-footstool. He pulled up the ice pack and looked at the bruise, smaller now than it was yesterday. It hurt to get punched there, but he'd had the better of it--elf fragger broke his hand on the titanium.

The 'link buzzed and he flicked the message to the trid reflexively. The message popped up over the programming, the sound of ork women kickboxing each other temporarily muffled to emphasize the message display.
<< [Torrent]: I’ve got a new business opportunity that you might be interested in. Confirm your interest and I’ll send you the meet details>>
Jackhammer leaned forward, wincing slightly as his ribs protested. For a while he just let his mind go blank, looking at the words like they were a ghost floating in the living "room" of his rented micro-suite apartment. The words hung there for a while, then auto-dismissed to resume the kickboxing trid he'd been watching a moment earlier. Jackhammer glanced at his black backpack in the corner, still holding his body armor right where he'd left it after quitting his job. A moment passed before the large, muscled ork smashed the heel of his hand into the coffee table in protest of life in general. What was worse, the table didn't shatter or explode, but just bent and tore in the wake of his powerful strike. He looked at the table with a spiteful glare and then turned towards the fridge; definitely a good time for a beer.

[Thursday July 2nd, 2076; Steelman's Fight Club, London outskirts]
He was only 3 guys in, but already showing some wear. This scrawny elf had gone all judo on him and was making a sport out of putting Jackhammer on his back over and over. It was getting a little stale, like an old joke nobody laughs at anymore. The guy was fighting like he had some chance of winning, and that kind of arrogance was enough to put Jackhammer in a fouler mood than when he stepped in the cage. So, eventually, he decided to do something he really knew better than to do; he got in close and left a big opening on his left side. As the elf went in for some bodywork, confidence beaming through the sweat on his stupid symmetrical face, Jackhammer neglected to block. He let the elf come in hard, but at the same time set up a hammer fist above his head that he never saw coming.

While the elf was dragged unconscious from the ring, Jackhammer bent over and grasped at the injured ribs. A look of pain shot across his face, but he waved off the announcer and stood up mostly straight again, signaling another round. He looked into the audience, and the man was still there: a grizzled-looking Spanish troll in a hoodie. He'd been watching the fight with apparent boredom for the last 3 matches, almost like he was just burning time. The lighting and distance made it hard to tell, but Jackhammer thought he might see the beginnings of a dragon tattoo on the troll's neck. He'd seen a troll like that skulking around here and there, and had a pretty good guess of what he was up to. But as the troll approached the ring--apparently the next volunteer match--Jackhammer knew this was his chance to be sure.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-20-16/2007:49>

[Thursday July 2nd, 2076; Steelman's Fight Club, London outskirts]
There are a few annoying things about fighting trolls. First of all, they're just big. Tall, broad, with long arms. When you're used to being the biggest guy in the ring, suddenly being the smaller guy is a difficult adjustment. Secondly, they're strong. When a troll hits you, it's not a prelude to some ninjitsu drek, he means to knock you out. And for a lot of trolls, he'll have pretty good odds of doing just that. And finally, they're just tough. Skin like leather, bones where they ought not to be, and muscles like bricks packed inside, all make it pretty hard to find a soft spot to hit. But for all that, they're also slow, usually stupid, and almost always think they're the hottest drek on the block. Jackhammer figured it was kind of like fighting a bulldozer. Trouble was, this bulldozer had him in a headlock.

"I hope you haven't forgotten your obligations." The troll grunted. So that was it. The troll was a messenger sent to remind him that no matter how much he paid, he would always owe. "Let me jog your memory." The troll said as he swung a meaty, bony fist towards Jackhammer's captive face. Jackhammer put his leg between the troll's and used the momentum to throw him forward onto the floor on his hands and knees. A swift kick in the gut produced a satisfying moan, but not as much motion as he would have liked. As the troll tried to stand, Jackhammer followed it with an elbow on the back of his neck. The troll's face hit the floor with a satisfying *thud*, but the fight wasn't over yet. He swept Jackhammer's legs and kicked him hard, but Jackhammer rolled into it and was back on his feet before the troll could get his balance. A sudden titanium-laced backhand knocked a few teeth from the troll's face before an uppercut brought him a few inches off the ground. The troll staggered back, blood running down his face. "And I have a message for them too." Jackhammer growled as he approached. "Leave me and my family alone."  A right cross in the solar plexus put the troll on his knees, and Jackhammer was walking away before they could drag the beaten fragger from the ring.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-20-16/2023:50>

[Saturday July 4th, 2076; Jackhammer's apartment]
The bottom of another empty beer bottle distorted his view of the ceiling.

He wasn't sure how Torrent had found his new commcode, but he didn't really know how that matrix stuff worked. But he was pretty sure that, since it was a group message, those other guys--Al and Isaint, as he'd known them--now had his code too. Which means one of them would probably come try to buy him a beer or something and rope him up in some other bad business. He had no interest in that, so Jackhammer tossed the bottle into the garbage, or recycling, or whatever that can was, and popped open another. Orks don't get buzzed very quickly, and he was half convinced that this cheap drek was actually all water. At least that was a good excuse to not worry about how many he had.

So he'd ignore the and pretend he died or something. Surely no matrix wizards had some kind of vitals tracker on him. But then again, there were the actual wizards to worry about. So Jackhammer thought a bit, then shrugged, taking another heavy drink. "Ah, let 'em come. They can knock but I don't needa answer. They know better than to come busting down this door." he said smugly and sat back down on the couch. But then he thought of the people who didn't know better. Those lenders were getting aggressive. And if they decided to call in a hit, they might not have the courtesy to knock. And those two guys he worked with, those Shadowrunners that made it out alive, they were tough as nails. Or at least the ork one. He couldn't tell if the little racist guy was tough or just lucky. But anyway, they'd be alright guys to help him handle this business, and a few extra nuyen for a few extra augs probably wouldn't hurt anything. Besides that, it's not like hearing the job would kill him. He tossed the bottle into the bin and went for another, but then the terrible truth struck. "Drek, I'm out of beer."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-20-16/2046:02>

[Saturday July 4th, 2076; Angel's eatery]
The reply to Torrent was curt and didn't include anyone else. He still wasn't 100% on this whole idea and didn't want anyone knowing otherwise.

He stood out in the rain for a long time. He was pretty sure nobody saw him given how far he was and how stealthy he could be for his size. He played with his 'link as the droplets decorated his screen and ran down, looking over his shoulder towards the diner now and then. Some people had gone in, but the only one he thought looked a little familiar was the one in the telltale bomber jacket. Another one walked like he was ex-military, so maybe Isaint, but from this distance it could have been anybody. Jackhammer growled at a homeless human that was getting a little to friendly, then turned back to his 'link. He'd apparently pulled the message back up without realizing it. With a heavy sigh, the big ork pulled his coat close around him and marched through the puddles and potholes to the entrance of the eatery.

He passed the security guard, marveling a bit at what passed for "security" these days, then strode through the door and paused. There was Al, and his dog--except apparently his dog had done some steroids and street drugs--and a few other people so mismatched and out-of-place that they could only be the rest of the team. He knew one of them had to be Isaint, but there was just no telling which. So he walked right up to the group and introduced himself exactly the way he felt. "One of you drek-heads owes me a drink. I'm here to collect." he said with a slight smile. "Don't make me listen to a Johnson sober." he added, not even considering that one of them might indeed be the "Johnson" as they called them in this business.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-20-16/2310:25>

At least Alyce was prepared.  Almost.  First, the man she now knows as Isaint indicates that he is indeed talking about Al Guthrie as if he is alive.  Second, the bomber jacket gave man away.  Her mosquito drone outside the diner had alerted her to his arrival.  She had stopped breathing for a few moments, not even realizing it.  Alyce commands the drone to fly in closer to the man to make sure.  The face was older, older than it should be after eight years, but that might be figured from his lifestyle, but there is something more.  His frame is different, less instead of more, and she realizes that he has been ill and probably very ill.  After circling the man several times, the drone flew back to its perch and she watched him approach the building and enter. 

She is only barely listening to the others talk, knowing that she can play it back later, trying to decide how she feels.  And failing to come up with an adequate answer.  She absolutely does not know how to react to this man returning to her life after eight years.  Al speaks and she immediately recognizes the voice that had been so dear to her.  Turning her sightless eyes to him, she opens her mouth to speak and fails.  A hand goes to her mouth and she finally says, "Al Guthrie.  I am glad that you are alive.  How are you?"  The monster that is sniffing Isaint's hand recognizes that his mistress is in distress and associates it with the newcomer.  A soft growl rumbles from its huge throat and his eyes glow a bit redder.  Before the hound can take even one step, Robyn places a hand on its fur and says, "Al.  Down."  The Hell Hound obeys instantly and the blind Keeb says, "We really should have a drink and go over old times and do some catching up.  But now we are here to for a job."  Robyn stands and makes room for Al to slide next to her in the booth.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-20-16/2350:10>

Iris watched Deckard rise and sit again with some small amusement tempered by curiosity, not the least of which was concentrated on figuring out where she had heard his name recently. He dressed like a 'runner, and he wore his power around him like a coat, just as she did. They were of a strength, or near enough to it that she didn't want to bet on a confrontation between them, but at the same time he had almost gaped at her when he looked at her aura. The quickened spells, maybe? She thought to herself. Well, its not every 'runner who benefits from a fortune in magical education. She mentally shrugged her shoulders and returned to her assessment. Powerful, yes, but surprised at that power in others. Someone newer to the heights of power that went beyond the casual hedge-wizardry of most street mages, perhaps? He had a good, solid decade or so on her. Maybe he hadn't always been a mage by profession?

Her eyes turned toward his outfit. Deckard- and where had she heard that damnable name?- dressed like a man of some means. She recognized that frag-off heavy coat as an Argentum, and those came with a hefty price tag. His clothes didn't speak particularly to poverty either, which meant that he either had a sideline as something more legitimate or was good enough at this job to make paydays that could buy him four-thousand-nuyen outerwear. Questions, either way.

Drek, that name was really going to bother her.

Iris turned her eyes toward Isaint and arched one thin golden brow slightly. Now there was a man who looked like a 'runner! She didn't have time to run down his every detail, however. The arrival of a still-smoking Al seemed to have blindsided Robyn completely, and Iris looked between the two with concern, placing her hand on her knee just above the cuff of one black boot. She reached out to touch her...friend? Acquiantance? Robyn, anyway, on the shoulder, and at the same time delved deep into her file of old matrix mail to scrounge up Robyn's commcode. DNI hairbands, wonderful things.

+Lady Lysander, are you well? You seem distressed by Mr. Guthrie's arrival+

Message sent, Iris turned, her eyes flickering through the color spectrum as the big ork walked up and dropped into the conversation like a particularly noisome drek. For the third time, she let her perception slide over to the astral and for the third time, she saw that there was more to her prospective companions than met the eye. Even the big bluff ork with the heavy tread and the holes in his essence where he'd bolted in new and unnatural enhancements was magically active.

Goddess alive, who the hell were these people?

Iris rose fluidly, her eyes glinting a pale green as she faced the big ork and nodded her head. Unlike previously, she didn't curtsy. "Hello, sir." She said in her oddly aristocratic manner. "Welcome to the party, sir. I am Iris. You're still ahead of Mr. Johnson." She glanced across the room to the serving counter and confirmed that it did indeed have bottles of some kind behind it. Gesturing at her now-empty chair, she said, "Here, take my seat. I'm going to wander over to what passes for a bar." She looked at Isaint and Deckard, then Al and Robyn. To Deckard she asked, "Care to join me for a moment, let these old friends catch up?" To the rest of the table, she added, "Would anyone like anything, since I'm headed that way anyway?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-21-16/0042:48>

Robyn receives the message from Iris and replies, >>Al is someone I used to know.  He went missing eight years ago.  His appearance here surprised me. and says in a calm voice, << 

She acknowledges the new arrival with a nod and says in a calm voice, "Welcome, but I think that your choice of words is a bit off.  I would hazard a guess that everyone here is rather better than a drek head at what they specialize in, even you..  Please sit if there is room, and please let my four-legged companion sniff at you.  Just to make sure he knows you."  Robyn looks around at the others, "And just so no one is surprised, just about all the patrons and the barman seem to be well armed and are probably part of the Johnson's security detail.  Either that or this dive caters to an exceptionally strong clientele."

Strangely enough, and disturbingly enough, the feel and smell of Al sitting next to her at the booth takes her back over eight years to another booth and another table.  They had been the only people at that table and in some way she felt that they might be the only people at this table.  Then Iris' words cut into her thoughts and without looking up, she says, "Whiskey, neat, please, Iris.  The best they have.  For two."  She pauses then adds, "Is that still the drink of choice, Al?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-21-16/0058:11>

Tear breaking reunions were all nice and all but it seemed everyone seemed to be ignoring the obvious, even more the Simstar Sorceress when she mentioned being ahead of the Johnson and about to start wandering around.
Deckard cough in his hand as in to clear his throat but didn't add speak yet. Instead, his eyes went sideways in the direction of the other man in the booth, the fit man of a certain age, along with a soft nod of the head in the same direction.

Mr. Johnson! he said so slighly louder, to remind everyone of his presence at the table. Apparently drinks are on the lady. Would you and/or your men would be interested in a beverage, while we wait for our the last of our associate?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-21-16/0108:37>

Robyn nods, "Yes, we should not forget or ignore the man who brought us together.  Who are we still missing, by the way?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-21-16/0234:23>

"Halfpint, I believe it was." Iris said absently. She glanced at the Johnson and gave a minute shrug when she caught Deckard's eye again. Social snubbing was a risky thing to do, especially with a Johnson, but Iris had found that she could usually count on her charms and her voice to get her out of any social trouble that her impetuousness could get her into. And to be frank, seeing his reaction to her possibly-accidental slight would be more valuable than the few dozen words it would probably take to smooth things over. If he didn't call her out, that would mean that he either needed the team very badly, or was the type to afford his 'runners a certain latitude. Conversely, if he did make mention of her comment, how he did it would tell her a great deal.

Nevertheless, she'd cast her dart already and now she could be polite, if not exactly pleasant. She rounded gracefully on the Johnson and briefly met the eyes of the goon she'd identified as a passably competent mage, smiling pleasantly while she waited for Mr. Johnson and Al to answer. For some reason that she absolutely couldn't fathom, she really didn't like this meet. Maybe it was the ragtag nature of the assembled 'runners, maybe it was the way that this terribly unfashionable dive was populated with people armed to the teeth, maybe it was just the discomfort she was getting off of Robyn, but the hairs on the back of her neck kept wanting to rise up and she kept remembering how Lau Daiyu had arranged a meet with all of her rivals and contemporaries when she came to town.

Then locked up the building, sealed the vents, turned off the A/C and kicked in the halon fire suppression systems in the restaurant they'd all been at.

With that cheerful thought circle the edges of her consciousness, Iris watched the Johnson's face, still smiling that trid-perfect smile that didn't reach her cold, opalescent eyes.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-21-16/0334:38>

Isaint was certainly surprised to see Jackhammer - to say the least. When Torrent had spoken of "you three" he somehow had assumed that he meant him Al and the Frenchman, not Jackhammer. Now the thought seemed dumb in hindsight. The Frenchman had after all gotten information about his past - from himself as it were. What could the man do other than go and find the Irish mafia.
"Jackhammer, wow. I honestly didn't expect you to meet us again. A beer you shall have - but maybe at another joint? I mean you probably could stomach what they serve here... Ah what the hell, Iris, if you are going anyway please get our associate here a closed bottle of the best beer they have here - on my tab."

At Deckard's reminder about the Johnson he nodded: "Of course, no offense meant, but as long as not everyone is present I expect there won't be any explanations. This time around we seem to have a good mix of already acquainted members. That should make this whole thing go smoother than usual."

Isaint just had snuck a short glance into the astral and had been almost blinded by the amount of power around. One thing was clear: A throwdown here would most likely topple the old building.

#238

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-21-16/0414:21>

"It is tonight," Al replied to Alyce's query about his drink choice. Right now, the harder the better.

All around him the team was greeting and sizing each other up. A real flurry of conversation. Somewhere in his mind he was glad to see Jackhammer show, and he stayed sharp enough to shake the other ork's hand.

But it was like he had two brains - and he did find time to congratulate himself on his prodigious mental capacities - one was nodding at Isaint and checking out the Johnson and keeping from tripping over the damned mutant beast, the other was entirely focused on her.

Al Guthrie. Glad you're alive. Let's have a drink and catch up. Hardly the joyful reunion he might have hoped for - had hoped for the dozens of times he'd imagined it - but then what could he expect? He'd made his choices.

Most of them bad.

He should have spotted the ponytail. How could he forget it? But he'd never seen her wear anything but jungle gear, and that outlandish steampunk get-up had thrown him off. But when she'd stood and he saw the way the skirts parted n front and the petticoats hung half an inch from scandal, he'd thought, yup, that's Alyce all right.

So they'd sat in the booth. It was a real big booth. But there were a lot of them in it, and he could feel her warmth...what had she said? But now we are here for a job. He'd get that drink in him. Then take one thing at a time.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-21-16/0947:16>

Robyn hears all that everyone is saying but files it away unless she hears any sort of key word or phrase that should grab her attention.  There is obviously a bit of time before the real meeting begins so she takes the hand closest to Al and moves it to cover one of his.  Leaning closer, she whispers, "I am very glad that you are alive.  All the money I spent looking for you only got me answers that you were dead somewhere.  I refused to believe that and just kept looking and waiting.  Can you talk later or is it too late for that?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-21-16/0958:37>

Dammit. It almost made him angry how the touch of her hand sent a jolt through him. Well, at least she was civil, which was probably more than he might have expected.

But then he wouldn't have expected anything less from her.

He pitched his voice only for her enhanced hearing to pick up, though he knew he was surrounded by paranoid people with enhancements of their own. Privacy was pretty much out of the question. "Reckon it's never too late to talk. Better git to it, though. My experience since I started doin' these sorts o' gigs is, once the suit across the table gits done talkin', things gon' start movin' real fast."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-21-16/1014:35>

Robyn put her mouth to Al's ear and whispers very softly, her breath warm on his neck, "Then I will get to it.  Life is complicated, I know that.  Drek happens.  So here it is.  I fell in love with you on that trip.  If you had given any hint you wanted me, I would have been in your arms and would have followed you anywhere.  But you were a bit distant and I thought it was another woman you were staying true to.  I am still in love with you.  Life changes and more drek happens, but that will not change.  If you are still loyal to that other woman, you can tell me to sod off and I will.  But it will not change the fact that I am in love with you.  We should talk more later, if you want to.  Neither of us is what we were then and things should be said."  She backs her lips from his ear a bit but continues to whisper.  "Will that do for starters?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-21-16/1040:30>

The Scotch had arrived, and Al barely avoided spraying it all over the table top. "Damn, woman, when I say git to it, you sure as hell can git to it," he whispered urgently, struggling not to choke on the fiery liquid. He'd already been reeling just from the sudden meeting, and her abrupt and unguarded confession - so unlike the hesitant ambiguity that had tortured him in the jungle - had sent him rushing behind his habitual defenses.

Better for her that way anyway.

"Yeah, that'll do jist fine fer starters. Never mind what I said 'bout talkin' now. Shee-it. We'll pick this up later." Then, chagrined by his rough tone, he added, "But ol' Al sure as hell ain't gon' tell ya ta sod off."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-21-16/1420:10>

Alyce has always wondered what might have happened if she had just told Al she was in love with him eight years ago.  She is not interested in pussyfooting around the issue this time.  She lost him once and has now lost another lover and realizes that time is too short, even for a keeb, to not speak her mind.  Besides, skirting the issue did not do so well last time and he did ask for her to speak.  In her mind, her heart has been aching long enough.  She is deeply conflicted over the love she feels for Al and for Calista at the same time, but loving Al will not reduce what she feels for her vampire lover one bit.  And she does not want to pass on this.
 
She sits back in the booth with a slight smile on her face as Al digests what she has said and his struggle to keep his whiskey down is obvious.  Her heart is racing as she considers what Al has said.  Maybe he is free of the other woman now.  And he did say that he wanted to talk later and that would give her a chance to say everything she wanted to say to him.  For now, though, there is a meeting to pay attention to.  Keeping her hand on Al's, she reaches for her drink with the other and shoots it back, letting the liquid fire coat her throat on its way down, adding fuel to her desire.  She upends the glass on the table and says out loud, "One dead soldier."
 
She leans over to pet the huge hound at her side, saying softly, "He came back, Al.  He came back."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-21-16/1523:37>

Son of a bitch. Push it the hell aside.

The last job he'd done they'd lost more than half their team, and the ones that had made it through had survived by the skin of their teeth. The people at the table were no lightweights - he had no doubt this job would be as suicidal as the last one. No way they were getting through without staying sharp. No way they were getting through it carrying around a bunch of baggage.

With Princess Iris off at the bar, he half stood, leaned across the table and extended his hand to the guy next to Isaint. "I gather you're Deckard. Alouicious Harlan Guthrie, esquire, at yer service."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-21-16/1531:56>

While she was waiting for the Johnson to answer, Iris mentally browsed around the open connections in the eatery. There were a few, not many but a few, herself included. She suspected that, like hers, most of the ones she was seeing were burner 'links, though the bar and food counter had an open connection for ordering, and it was from here that she ordered what drinks had already been requested, leaving a tab open on her credstick and flagging the ARO for the rest of the table. On the one hand, she no longer had a reason to slip away and speak with Deckard, but on the other hand, she didn't have to figure out how to carry drinks from bar to table while still being able to get to her wand in a hurry.

Drinks came, a gin and tonic with something that in a dim light could pass for lime for her- on the basis that gin already tasted like jet fuel, so it couldn't be much worse for being in Angel's- and scotch for Robyn and Al, delivered by a dead-eyed, impassive looking teenage waitress with way too much mascara and eyeliner that met her halfway between bar and table with a tray. Iris left her a hundred-nuyen tip and a small smile in gratitude, then leaned against the edge of the booth, sipping her drink and trying not to shudder. It tasted like the bar looked, and Iris idly wondered if the wretched stuff would eat a hole in the floor if she spilled it. Probably not, she reflected. The building was still standing, which meant that it had to be tougher than it looked.

Iris turned her head to ask Isaint about himself, but she was interrupted by seeing Al's jaw clenching and eyes bulging around a mouthful of scotch. At first she thought that the scotch was even worse than the gin, or maybe that his glass had been filled with devil-rat piss by mistake- probably not that uncommon in a pit like this- but then she realized that Robyn was just pulling away from whispering something in his ear, and Iris was immediately on alert. She took in the whole situation, the look on his face, and hers, the way she was oriented toward him, the stories she'd told about him during their months working closely to locate Calista, and it all snapped together in a flash of clarity.

Iris' eyes flashed hotly and her lips turned down in a scowl that she knew Robyn couldn't see. She was irrationally angry at the thought that Robyn might have feelings for this man when she still didn't know what had happened to Calista. Yes, it had been months, and yes, Calista was probably dead. But they didn't know and Iris certainly wasn't going to give up her friend. Iris took a deep breath and schooled her face back into a pleasant mask, turning her attention away from the reunion and looking to Isaint and Deckard. Again she went to speak and again she had to stop as Al leaned across the table, apparently missing her return with the drinks, despite having actually drunk one.

Hard to fault him, that scotch looked particularly harsh, and he was getting up there in years, if his face was any indication.

Iris took another drink from her glass and leaned against the booth, waiting to see if Al would speak to her directly.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <01-21-16/1642:37>

[Saturday July 4th, 2076; Angel’s, Old West End, London]

Moments before the meet was actually due to start a tiny figure slips in…this has to be Halfpint.  With barely an acknowledgement to the newcomer, and certainly no response to Iris, the J clears his throat and speaks with brusque clipped tones that indicate he isn’t a local

“Right, let’s get down to business as all seven of you are here.  Torrent tells me that you are at the top of your game so it won’t come as any surprise to you that this one is going to be difficult.  I have fragmented data pointing at an artefact that was stored here in London at the end of the Eurowars.  The crash virus has degraded it but our techs have pieced together what they can.  The snag is that the artefact is buried in a decommissioned arms bunker that now lies under the West End Underplex!  As you will know security down there is some of the best in London…”

***
_#03

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-21-16/1701:06>

Isaint gave a low whistle through his teeth: "That certainly sounds like a tall order. This artifact, what size are we talking about? And is the security aware of its presence or rather will it be missed? And please tell me that we are not trying to get to a still functional Trident pay-load. Retrieving ABC-weaponry is something I do have an aversion against."

Isaint had dropped his previous joviality and concentrated on the Johnson, trying to notice any signs for deception or misdirection. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-21-16/1702:08>

Robyn had let Al's hand slide out from under hers when he stood up to offer his hand to one of the others.  She's smiled as she saw the familiar Al, and was so very glad that he had not really changed all that much.  It may have been a bit unfair of her to tell him like that, but she had wasted eight bloody years because she had not done it when she should have.  She put her hand back on her lap and watched the others with her senses, idly scratching the other Al between his ears as she set her systems to working.
 
She had checked the feed from Sasha outside and used the cover of the table to release Misha from a pocket, sending the microdrone out to sit above the table with its sensor pointed out into the room.  As the drone flew off to its position, she set her 'link agent to a continuous scan for hidden icons in the immediate area and prepped her deck for action in case things started to go south here.  Robyn was not concerned about the group of runners, but she nonetheless identified several obvious icons as weapons, noting which might be the best targets to be hacked.
 
Robyn had then taken the time to make some soft clicking sounds, alerting the Hell Hound of which target she was most interested in if they needed to jump.  Then, shortly before the Johnson started talking, she turned her face to Iris, saying, "Iris, thank you for the drinks.  I can take the next the next round.  The man next to me is Al Guthrie.  I have spoken about him often, I know.  We shared a very interesting trip to Cambodia about eight years ago.  Right before he disappeared.  He is a stand up guy and very good when things start to go south.  I am sure that you will get on with him."  Once the Johnson started talking, she continued her communication with a private message, encrypted with a code they had worked out months ago during the search for Calista.  >>Remember that I can sense body language probably better than most people because I do not rely on sight.  Be angry if you must, but I am not giving up on Calista.  I want to find her more than ever now.  I would give my life for hers if she asked for it.  But even before she...........left.........we had agreed to an arrangement where she would do what she needed to survive, and that would probably entail sleeping with others to get her blood and essence.  And I do not think she would begrudge me some happiness of my own.  I cannot forget her and it would be impossible to love her any less than I do.  I hope that you can understand that.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-21-16/1712:23>

Having greeted Deckard, Al was just about to touch a courtesy base with Princess Iris when the rigger showed up and Mr. Silent decided to get things going.

And what he said brought one urgent question to the scruffy human's mind. Forgetting the manners his Ma had taught him, he didn't even wait for the man to answer Isaint's question: "Whoa there Nelly, hold up fer a sec. Now you'll pardon me fer askin' this right up front, but when you say 'under the West End Underplex,' is you talkin' about some fergotten basement under that shoppin' mall they got down there? Or is you talkin' 'bout it bein' in that freak show maze o' nightmares extends off from it?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-21-16/1730:24>

>>Your business, not mine. Do what you have to do.<< Iris sent back to Robyn, uncoded. Her posture was relaxed and her expression perfectly congenial, but her eyes were cold, and they narrowed further as the Johnson laid out the job, and tightened around the edges as Isaint had his brainstorm about retrieving a hot nuke. God alone knew what could be under the underplex. Widow's Way dated all the way back to the Roman empire, after all, and it was a sad truth that while retrieving a live nuclear warhead or a Red Masque payload would suck hard enough to strip the chrome off a trog's prothesis, it was entirely possible that they may be getting sent after something even worse.

To Al, Iris quipped, "It is Below. Even the basement is a 'freakshow maze of nightmares.' And if it was just a basement in the underplex mall, they'd have found it long since, don't you think? That place has been in continuous operation for more than thirty years." She sighed through her nose. "Mr. Isaint's points are quite well taken. To them I would add, Mr. Johnson," she stressed the stereotypical name only slightly, "would you be so kind as to tell use whether there are access points in the Underplex that you know of? It would be easier to assess our capability if we know whether we have to move through half of London Below or if we can simply go straight down from Shadowtown." Iris produced a small, expensive commlink from inside her cloak, tapping notes into a holographic screen before adding, "Likewise, if we are going to need special containment measures, it would be most helpful to be told before we're in the same room as the target."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-21-16/1919:12>

Jackhammer shrugged. He knew it was something about this "below" place, but a lot of his memories from down there were pretty fuzzy. Mostly he recalled the three primary demographics of clowns, assholes, and murderers. He still hadn't placed exactly where his group fell in all that, but he wasn't going to let it trouble his conscience. But then everyone was in a buzz about some "package" that may or may not be nuclear or a fossil or the tomb of Jesus of Nizene or whatever. They all seemed to know a lot more about it, or what "it" might be, than he had any idea.

"We're supposed to steal something? Drek, why not? But who's it belong to and what are they using it for? I don't want to steal some kid's medicine or something, but I don't care if I stick it to some rich megacorp execs." Jackhammer added to the conversation.
"Hey, where's Frenchfry?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-22-16/0026:01>

Robyn accesses her deck and brings up the maps of the Underplex and the areas below it.  It is scant information indeed, but enough to get started.  She has spent a lot of time Below but would never claim to be an expert or know all there is to know.  She switches to Ivan, the agent on her commlink, and commands him to begin gathering all the available data on the Underplex.  Beyond that, she is comfortable letting others ask the questions.  First Sasha then Misha had alerted her to the approach of the halfer, but nothing since and she checks on their status.  Satisfied that both microdrones are functioning properly, she turns her full attention to the conversation around her, knowing that everything said so far has been recorded in her mutated brain.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-22-16/1637:51>

The traffic had been an absolute bitch, but not as bad as that engine management system. He hated being late, but today there was fuck all he could do about it.
He'd donned his decent kit for the meet and kept the aggro low so as not to piss off the doormen and took a seat at the table, keen to get an ear on what was being discussed.
It was now clear why he'd been called. Underground ops were a bit of a speciality and not something easy to come by in the old smoke.
He caught the introductions being passed about as the non-plussed members of the team wondered who the late entrant was.
Yep, Halfpint is a working name for me. Vehicles are my thing and I'm no stranger to working underground. So, you've stated roughly what you want us to achieve, but you've not stated what the remuneration is likely to be. I'm expecting a reasonable offer given the nature of the task.
[spoiler]Negotiation roll to get us started, any specced negotiators feel free to use this as a teamwork test!
 (http://orokos.com/roll/364446): 9d6t5 2 2 hits to utilise[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-23-16/0049:14>

Robyn nods in the direction of the Halfer.  "Welcome, Halfpint.  I am Robyn Lysander, and I am happy to meet you.  Are you familiar, then, with the Below?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-23-16/0443:27>

To Halfpints introduction, Isaint said:
"Welcome to the team. If you don't mind I'd like to have a private word with you later on about drones and fire coordination."


Without taking his eyes from the Johnson, Isaint replied to Jackhammer:
"The Frenchman is not with us on this one. He's probably got some business with the Irish mob to solve.

#240

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-23-16/0532:38>

Replying to Robin, Halfpint spoke; not the London underplex no, but I spent some time training for cave rescues in Lancashire with the mountain rescue team. I know how to search, maneuver and survive underground for extended periods
He nodded his approval to Isaint, always keen to talk drones

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-23-16/1115:46>

Robyn faces Isaint then Halfpint.  "Might it be possible to sit on the sidelines of that conversation, gentlemen?  I have several drones that I use to see with and can coordinate their use to help.  That is, if you do not mind terribly."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-23-16/1338:55>

"Actually, that would be very much appreciated. It's about establishing perimeter defenses. I'll get back to you both on that."

Isaint turned again to the Johnson:
"So, what is it exactly that we need to retrieve?"
"I can assure you, that it's nothing like an atomic bomb - or any other biological or chemical agent."
"That leaves out quite a lot other very dangerous possibilities."
"It is a magical active object, but I'm not at liberty to tell you what it does."
"Ok, leaving that aside for the moment, what are it's dimensions and weight."
"Ah yes, it's actually quite heavy. The artifact is stored in a - well you could call it a barrel, about 1m in diameter and 1.5m tall. To heavy to carry unassisted. If necessary we can provide you with a mule drone for transport."
"All right, now we are getting somewhere. Since we will in part have to move through high security zones do you have permits for us and general IDs to go with them, or do we have to go completely black ops on this."
"I was informed that all of you have experience with the so called "London Below". We suggest you make your approach and return to the Plex through there even if the two places aren't strictly connected. But yes, we are prepared to issue with burner IDs for this occasion."
"Good. Now, is there a time limit on this job - an impending relocation of the object, maybe?"
"No, thankfully, this is a permanent repository. But we do have another team that can provide a distraction to the general Underplex and give you a chance to slip out. Those we can't keep on retainer indefinitely - their deadline is approaching fast so I need you to go tomorrow night at the latest."
Isaint nodded: "That seems acceptable. Torrent has given you a quote on mine and probably the others rates too. One last thing remains: Where do you want the goods delivered?"
"Right here to this location actually."
"Right." Isaint looked around and nodded. "So this place is a front then. Explains the shitty food and drink."
He turned to his chummers:
"Any one else got some questions for our potential employer?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-23-16/1440:24>

Iris nodded, uncrossing her arms. "Yes, I've got a couple." She thinks for a moment, then asks, "Mr. Johnson, you say the object is magically active. Can you give us more information on how? For example, if it is affecting the background count of the ambient manascape, Mr. Deckard and I will have to take steps in order to retain effectiveness, particularly if the warping of the manasphere is exceptionally radical." She glanced at Deckard and raised her eyebrows, silently inviting him to add to her questions, then turned her attention back to Mr. Johnson. "Additionally, can we expect some sort of security, astral or otherwise? I'm sure that getting into a long-forgotten repository is going to be rife with risks, but if there is another team or one of the Houses Below also trying to acquire the object, that puts a different spin on things. Likewise, if the object's magical nature attracts spirits- especially of a specific type- then we will have to be prepared for more intense or more particular astral combat than if we were simply dealing with the usual local denizens."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-23-16/1624:13>

At this point, Robyn is content to let the others ask their questions and keep silent.  Everything said is going into her mutated brain for digestion later, so she turns her hearing filters to allow her to listen to any chatter from the other patrons of the diner.  She keeps tabs on the images from her Fly-Spy drones, looking for any sudden movement from any of them.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-25-16/0129:47>

Deckard unconsciously touched the band-aid on his slightly swollen and bruised cheekbone. His wife had told him often enough to avoid London Below like the plague, and he had considered already just walk away already. But the cut of his face reminded him than some people would make sure his life got even more miserable than it is now if he couldn't  pay some of his loans. Money was going to be good for this dangerous run. He just couldn't refuse.

He nodded at Iris, background count was a bitch. He really hated it. Then he realized the woman he was facing wasn't your regular hot elf simstar, but a Dryad, the rare mythological creature of supernatural charms. It was the first time he met one up close. Not the kind of place he thought this would happen... Then he realized looking at the Dryad, he didn't pay attention to the conversation going on outside of the mention of Spirits. So he nodded in agreement. Not too sure what he would add to it.

ISaint had run the discussion as good as Deckard could have hope for, and they had a clear timeline and a not so clear idea of what to it was they were going to steal.  They seemed to kind of all know of each other, and or, if the Johnson's was right, they all had experience with London Below. Deckard could really only vouch for multiface man known as ISaint, and his experience with Below was more based on stories from the Shadow community than any real experience. His telekinetic skills however could prove very useful to 'transport' the heavy artefact.

It looked like a very complimentary group... they could do it!.

 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-25-16/0140:47>

Robyn keeps her face still, but her senses are working all the time.  Her drone and her ultrasound pick up Deckard's slight motion to his face and Robyn focuses her attention there for a second, picking up the slight difference in texture between the skin and something else......a bandage perhaps.  She turns her face slightly to the man and leans forward a bit to whisper below the general chat level.  "Mister Deckard?  Are you injured?  Would you like to let me look at that before we go Below?  There are things down there, some of them abominations, that seek out and prey on the already injured, seeing them as weaker.  I have some medical skill if you want me to see to that."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <01-25-16/0833:27>

[Saturday July 4th, 2076; Angel’s, Old West End, London]

“Iris, I’m afraid the data we have on the object is sketchy, reconstructed from the crash virus.  However, I have no reason to believe that it isn’t contained and there is no information on spirits.  I would have thought any bindings would have lapsed by now, it has been in cold storage for decades…and I would think that with so many Talented individuals that any that remain should be within your abilities to deal with.

Isolation is the principal security, I would anticipate you having no issues bypassing the pre-crash tech.  Wards and so on should have long gone.  It is the Underplex that is likely to cause you more problems, security there is second to none outside of triple A corporations’ key facilities.
 
So, do we have an agreement in principal?  Or do you need to discuss it further amongst yourselves?  I understand some of you have worked together in the past but new group dynamics always take some time to adjust to and you need to decide individually whether you want the job.  I’m sure you could accomplish this task with less of you but my risk increases so don’t expect the same level of remuneration.”

***
_#04

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-25-16/0929:49>

Al finished off his Scotch, set down the glass and rubbed at the bridge of his nose.

He never spoke much at these sorts of powwows and usually didn't listen much either. But he'd heard and seen enough to know he wanted no part of this job for however much money.

Unfortunately, that was not the only consideration.

There were some he'd promised to follow back down there if need be.

And another he wasn't going to let go on the job without him, magical tattoo of diplomatic immunity from degenerates or not.

So he kept his mouth shut tight around his cigarette and waited for others to speak.

He implored the voodoo gods that they'd have the sense to take a walk.

But his prayer was without faith.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-25-16/1331:46>

Iris looked at the others neutrally for a second. Her mind was already made up, but there was no sense in heading back down into London's very own pedestrian hell if she was going to do it alone. The sad fact was that loners got killed down there, and that was the only thing that had kept her from heading down to search for Calista and the Margravate's missing sorceress- whatthefrag was her name? Niceday or some drek?- for weeks. Still,s omeone had to say something. Johnsons didn't like to be kept waiting, so she squared her slender shoulders and turned back to the suit.

"Mr. Johnson," she began, her tone the epitome of courtesy, "I accept your offer, contingent on at least some of this team's also accepting. I don't think any of us would wish to go down there alone." Then she turned to her associates, waiting to see which way they jumped.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-25-16/1341:44>

Isaint shrugged: "I trust Torrent on this and its not as if I didn't have a reason anyway to visit Below. My usual rates apply, escrow account, naturally.
You have assembled a very, very capable team here. I am confident in the fact that you understand what those people would be capable of doing individually - not to mention working in concert - in case of... trust issues."

'At least this time we don't have a group of civilians to protect preventing us from rescuing our chummers if the need should arise.'

#242

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-25-16/1522:54>

Jackhammer looked around at the others, trying to figure out if they were going to take the job, and if they were, how confident they were in success. If it was just a ride-along and everyone else would handle the heavy lifting, who could it hurt? But at the same time, he lost half his company last trip down. There were things down there that just didn't respect any amount of talent, whether magical, martial, or technical. Seemed going "below" was taking your life in your own hands.

But people actually live down there. So there must be just good parts and bad parts, parts you keep your head down and parts you keep the hell out. If they could get a guide this time, one less prone to lady-crazy, they might be alright.

And in the neighborhood of lady-crazy, here was this girl that was the finest looking piece of metahuman Jackhammer had seen since the crazy tour guide. He already knew not to trust women like that. They made it awfully hard to think straight, and Jackhammer had enough trouble keeping his head on straight without all of... that.

But here was this girl that seemed to know Al. See seemed alright. Blind maybe? Or just in AR/VR? Maybe some kind of possessed magician or something? Anyway, she seemed alright. And here Al was, whispering to her like they had some kind of business. Maybe they just both loved dogs? Apparently that beast of a thing was hers, after all. Anyway, they looked pretty mismatched, so there was no way it was like that. She might be worth talking to later. Jackhammer made a mental note to compare tattoos with her when he got the chance.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-25-16/2237:24>

Robyn does not look around as the others responded.  She already knew her mind on this.  Her unfinished business Below would have to wait as it is bad practice to double up on a private mission when a Johnson was paying for results.  She clears her throat, "From what others here are saying, It seems that I might be the weak link on this team.  I have very good trix skills and even better medical skills, but I am blind and have no real combat skills.  I have my own Mule and my other senses are tuned enough that I do not believe that I will be a burden.  However, I do understand the some of you may believe that I will be a liability. I would like to come and Torrent thinks I will do well for you.  Team decision."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-25-16/2343:42>

Deckard dismissed politely Robyn's offer to take care of his small cut. It was a small cut and a week old punch in the face, the injury in itself was pretty much gone, the bruising should be dissipated in a couple days max. Thanks, Ma'am, this will be gone son enough. Just a first landing on the wrong face, you know boys will be boys.
The Russian knew exactly which face he was punching, but Deckard preferred to keep his debt issues to himself for now.

When she mentioned about her blindness, he had to interject: No offense, you can deck and do your Matrix wizardry anytime without your sight really, and for that I see no objection you tagging along, that and that intriguing tattoo on your face... but I must ask: what kind of doctor are you? wouldn't sight be like... quite useful?

He turned to the Johnson and waved his hand. Oh and yeah, I'm in too. Sounds like a lot of fun.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-26-16/0016:07>

Robyn laughs.  The intriguing tattoo means that I am affiliated with the Earl's House in London Below and have all the protection that can afford me.  It is not a universal protection, but it is usually pretty effective.  In general, I can walk unescorted through much of Below, but there are still places that I would not dare without a group like is gathered here.  But you should also know that this protection comes at the price of having enemies Below as well."

"As to my medical skills, I took my schooling and residency at Vladivostok University Hospital, graduating in 2033.  My specialty is trauma medicine and surgery as it relates to bullet wounds, with secondary specialties in the repair and replacement of bio and cyber ware.  However, I am fully capable of doing other surgery as well.  I can compensate for my vision impairment and I have extensive experience as a field surgeon on numerous expeditions into some pretty rough jungle terrain all over the world.  I keep up with the latest developments in medical science and am on a surgical rotation at London General Hospital to keep my hand in.  Of all my limitations, I am least concerned with keeping everyone alive.  And before you say it, yes, I get that sort of question a lot.  The questions usually stop after I demonstrate what I can do."

And I thank you for the vote of confidence and take no umbrage at the questions.  If I cannot convince everyone that I am an asset and not a liability then there is no reason to take me.  Especially since I have no real combat abilities.  Does anyone else have any concerns?  I would rather get them into the open now than later as it gives you time to find a replacement if I am rejected."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-26-16/0030:15>

Jackhammer snorted audibly at the line "Torrent thinks". He steps up and uncaps his drink--not supposed to be a twist-top--and addresses the tattooed girl. "Don't worry about all that. I'll keep you out of trouble." He offered with a slight grin, tipping back the bottle into his mouth afterward. "Wait. Drek. I guess I just took the job." Jackhammer made a sour face as he swallowed, but he hoped people would just assume the liquor was bad.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-26-16/0429:37>

Al sighed. This was going to happen.

Hardly surprising - people had come here to work, and none had come with any illusions about it being easy.

"Reckon ol' Al's in. An' as fer this one," he said, shoving half-playfully at Robyn's shoulder with his own without looking at her, "like she says, she's about as useful in a fight as an ass on yer elbow. But looks like she jist picked up one o' the best bodyguards I ever seen work. She won't slow anyone down any other way, I'll guarantee ya, an' the fact I's breathin' here today's yer testament she knows her way around the meds."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-26-16/0451:58>

"The fact is, we need a decker. You seem to have a grip on your handicap - if it is one at all. So if the drek hits the fan, hunker down and trust in your allies. Especially Jackhammer, he is good at getting people out alive.

But I hope you packed enough noise reduction in your gear. Last time I was down there, we really had problems to stay connected to the top world."

He turned to the Johnson:
"I assume than that we can reach you through this place if we have any further questions or need clarifications."

Addressing the team he said:
"Since we mostly seem to be in agreement to do this, I'd suggest, we relocate to some place that does serve more palatable beverages. We can clarify which resources we bring to this venture - and where possible holes in our defenses might be."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-26-16/0950:11>

Robyn nods as she scratchess the Hell Hound's head.  "I can second that.  We came in a cab, so can anyone give us a lift to wherever we are going?"  She turns to face Al and lowers her voice a bit.  "Thanks. Al.  That was one of the best things I ever did.  Followed by the worst.  Old times, eh?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-26-16/1642:34>

Halfpint smiled. This mission wasn't going to be easy at all, but he'd always relished a challenge, and he knew he was piloting some seriously heavy firepower.
It was always dangerous to overstate one's hand and get caught out, but he always felt safer when jumped into a well armed mini tank when shit got out of hand.
Yeah, come on. I can fit a few of you in my van. Where we heading to?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-26-16/1740:37>

"I've also got one seat open. Regarding where to go: I'd suggest the King's Head near Paddington since I've never been there before, but I heard good things about their Shepard's Pie and Ale Combo. But most important, there is a parking garage across", replied Isaint.
He nodded to the Johnson
"We'll stay in contact. Please have the ID's ready until tomorrow."

#244

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-26-16/1750:01>

"They got a private room there?" Al asked as he stood. "The pie sounds damned good, but don't really feel like shoutin' our plans at each other across a noisy common area." He stubbed out his Lucky Strike on the table top. "Not ta be grumpy or nothin'."

He stepped aside so Robyn and others could get out of the booth. Checked out the blind decker's legs again as she extricated herself. Took a moment to approach Princess Iris. Held out his scarred right hand. "Reckon you're the only one I ain't had a proper how-d'ye-do with, what with ever'one arrivin' in a rush. Seems ya know my name, but I'm Al Guthrie just the same." He silently congratulated himself on his inborn sense of the poetic.

Half of him hoped Robyn would get a ride with someone else just for now, half of him hoped she'd ask to ride with him, and all of him didn't want her to just disappear. But his ma had taught him manners, and he needed to tick this box with the beauty queen if they were going to work together.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-27-16/0026:30>

The huge hound rose silently to its feet as Robyn climbed out of the booth.  She stepped a bit to the side to facilitate others leaving and the hound took up its usual position on her left side.  As Robyn silently called her drones in, she quietly asked, "Al?  Got room for two in whatever you came in?  I am afraid your namesake here takes up a good bit of room."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-27-16/0038:51>

Jackhammer hovered around the little guy who apparently had a van. He figured it would give him a chance to check out the guy's hardware and see if he was trustworthy. Besides that, a van sounded like less of a squeeze than whatever Isaint was probably driving or trying to share a seat with big Al. And sharing a seat with blind girl would just be rude at this point. Still, the thought drew a slight smile out of him as he finished his drink.

"Maybe we ought to do our planning below. Bad wireless and less interested parties, right?" Jackhammer suggested. He figured he was being tactical, but on some level he knew he was just itching to pick a fight with some freaks. Or maybe an entire area of space. It was difficult to put a finger on exactly what he wanted to punch, but he was pretty sure he would know it when he saw it, and also pretty sure he could end anything he started. He left his empty bottle on the table.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-27-16/0154:54>

Just got a Mirage; I take you'll be all more comfortable in the Halfpint's van with that rain coming.
I've heard of the King's head. I believe they have a room for private parties and I could go for a Shepard's pie right now.

He gave a nod to the Johnson and added confidently: Next time you will see us all here will be with you big artefact, Sir.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-27-16/0301:55>

Isaint tilted his head for a moment, then replied: "Just reserved a private conference room."
Turning to Deckard he said: "So you still have the Mirage? Normally I'd say I race you there, but while on the job I try to commit only one illegal act at a time."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-27-16/0750:28>

Al had timed his greeting of the Princess poorly, as she'd been approached by two googly-eyed bar staff at the very moment he offered her his hand. Which annoyed him, since he'd been quite pleased with his little rhyme and now it was wasted.

He turned his attention to Robyn, then looked down his nose skeptically at the huge affront to nature. The monstrosity could almost look him straight in the eye. But, glancing at Robyn's ears, he realized anything wrong with the animal would have to be seen as equally wrong with her. And Isaint. And Jackhammer. So now he was more annoyed because he hated when he was forced to call his own assumptions into question.

He shrugged in resignation. "Yeah, ya don't wanna ride inna perfectly good van, my Beamer's parked across the street." The response was non-commital, almost a sigh, though she could see the corner of a smile on his face at the same time. "First, though, I ain't yet been but passingly introduced. Maybe you'd like to present ol' Al ta yer lady friend."

At which point he realized he hadn't graced the munchkin with so much as a nod, and made a mental note to be wary of the Princess's power to distract.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-27-16/0857:18>

Iris watched, amused. Once her questions were answered she mostly withdrew from the conversation, letting others with better heads for business handle the particulars. She was here as an arcanist and something of a face, naught else. Instead, she considered, what sort of spirits would be useful, how many, how much. Would she need a large supply of drams or could she buy them Below without issue, how many toxic and shadow sites were between here and there, and all the other questions an illegal combat mage faced on a run like this one.

Drek. This was almost certainly some kind of trap.

But a well-paying, rather prestigious one.

But also highly lethal.

Drek.

Iris gave a mental shrug. Nothing to be done about it now. She returned to her inventory and planning. She would have to get with Deckard at some point to figure out what tools they had in common, where they could pool their resources versus where they couldn't, and whether their traditions would interact badly. She broke off that line of thought as the rest of the team began to stir and rise, getting ready to move. She caught "The King's Head" and nodded agreeably. Good soybeer there.

At Al's words Iris' eyes hardened, but she pasted a smile on her sculpted features, at least appearing to be pleased and gregarious. It wasn't that she disliked Al. Far from it, in fact, he seemed to be a source of crusty, irascible good cheer. But Iris was still smarting over Robyn's reaction to him, and then her mealy-mouthed defense of it. Iris was not looking forward to rescuing her friend and protegé only to tell her about Robyn and Al. But all that was just behind her eyes, and it would take a startling judge of character- and one capable of reading very subtle facial cues- to see it. She had a great deal of practice putting on false faces, and the only person here who knew her from a hole in the ground didn't have the sensor acuity to read her eyes. So she smiled and she held out her hand to Al, the handshake of a compatriot rather than the curtsy of a young woman. "Iris. Mage, healer, teacher, occasional liar and confidence girl."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-27-16/0906:48>

Of all the people in the room, Al was the least startling judge of character and most incapable of reading subtle facial cues. He liked her self-description, and told her so. "Now that's a hell of an introduction, senorita, an' I am very pleased ta make yer acquaintance." His voice was like a bullfrog's, but if the bullfrog had throat cancer. "I have known members of all those perfessions, but never in one and the same person. A renaissance woman to be sure. An' how is it you know, er, Robyn here?"

She'd always be Alyce to him, but he figured she might have changed it for a reason so for the time being he'd better stick with what she was going by now.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-27-16/1006:25>

Robyn was opening her mouth to make the introductions when Iris took care of the issue herself.  She had come to depend on Iris for a number of things while searching for Calista and has to respect her.  She was never close and kept a professional distance, but there was something different now.  The tone of her message certainly meant that she disapproved of Robyn having any sort of relationship outside of pining for her vampire lover.  Well, Robyn would have to cross that bridge when she came to it.  Robyn's own gut was all twisted every time she thought of what might have happened to Calista and she was all too aware that there might be problems.  But it has been almost a year since Calista walked out of Pax's clinic and simply disappeared.  Not one word, not one clue.  The woman was a killing machine and it stood to reason that there would have been something noticed by someone if there had been a fight to capture her.  Sadly, the most obvious situation is that Calista just disappeared on her own.  But a year is a long time to be in hiding without at least one fragging hint or even a sniff of a hint.  Robyn had lived through that eight years ago and was now reliving that same anguish every day  If Al was still loyal to the other woman, she will understand and simply be glad that he is safe.  But if he is now free.......................

Robyn call her inside drone to her and slips it back into one of the pockets of her dress and walks quietly to the door as the small group starts to break up.  Stepping outside, she feels the rain on her face and looks up at the sky, as if to will her dead eyes to see something.  Nothing, as usual.  No miracle from God.  She unfolds her umbrella and steps to the side to let the others go past as she waits for Al.  The hound at her side turns his head from side to side, seeking out any danger to his mistress.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-27-16/1045:43>

That tightening of the eyes came again, more obvious this time, and Iris glanced neutrally at Robyn's back as she stepped outside. Turning back to Al, Iris said, "We worked a missing persons case together for several months." Iris decided not to tell Al of anything relating to Calista beyond safe, neutral details. No mention that she was infected, no mention of her relationship with Robyn. Robyn could do that herself, if she was so inclined. It wasn't any of Iris' business, and she wasn't going to prejudice Al. Not for Robyn's sake, but for his. She shrugged one delicate shoulder and took a deep breath, fully conscious of the effect it would have on her decollétage, then let it out slowly and smiled a small, sad smile. "It was, unfortunately, a dismal failure. The case is still open, but it leads Below. I have some small hope that new information may emerge in the course of this 'run, but no intention of pursuing it while 'on the clock.'"

Exhaling softly through her nose and schooling her face back into its pretty, pleasant expression, Iris motioned toward the door and remarked, "I believe your lady fair is waiting for you." Then, damning herself for every syllable, Iris added, " This isn't exactly the jungles of Cambodia, but I'm sure she would be happy to have you as a guide again. She spoke...very highly of you."

At the same time as she was talking, Iris composed a fast matrix message to Robyn, this one in Robyn's code. >>I told him we worked a missing persons case together. No names, no details, no mention of a relationship. Best of luck with him.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-27-16/1132:07>

Al grinned and shrugged. "Most folks do."

He lit a new cigarette. "Sorry ta hear 'bout yer case. Onna trid they find people all the time that's been missin' fer years an' years, so I reckon ya still got a good chance o' findin' 'im."

There was something about this one that made him want to just keep on talking to her and watching her breathe. But a few more pleasantries later she was heading for her car and Al was leading Alyce and her beast across the street to his. It was a nice enough mid-range sports job, but also possibly the dirtiest vehicle in London. He opened her door and tossed a month's worth of fast food containers and beer cans into the back, put the passenger seat forward and motioned the animal into the freshly piled garbage, then helped Alyce into the car as she smoothly closed her umbrella. She managed to duck in without jarring her little hat, and even kept the petticoats at her front decent, if only by a hair's breadth.

Then Al was walking around to the driver's door, bracing for whatever came next.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-27-16/1344:15>

Halfpint brought up the rear as everyone mosied out of the meet and out onto the street,
Anyone riding wi' me head this way, see you down there if not.
He swung a right and headed to the car park, drizzle collecting on his jacket and running in small seams down towards his boots.
Pinging the vehicle with an AR command, the engine fired up and the A/C barked into life before he'd opened the door and climbed up the aftermarket steps for "shorter" metas like himself.
The AR interface for the van had been set to a nice warm orange and he felt the glow around his hands as he established a control link and grasped the virtual sticks in front of him, easing the big girl out of the parking space and down the ramp to the street

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-27-16/1454:03>

Robyn remained outside in the rain until Al came out.  The message from Iris had surprised her, mostly for its cordiality.  She quickly sends a note back.  >>Thank you, Iris.  I am not going to lead him or Calista on.  No lies.<<
 
When Al appears, Robyn makes a soft clicking sound and the Hell Hound rises from the sidewalk and walks with her across the street to Al's car.  She puts weight on her cane to help walk.  Al makes some space for both of them and she folds her umbrella and climbs in after the massive hound moves to occupy the rear seat.  She shakes her umbrella off outside before putting it in the car with her and shutting the door.  The smells of old, stale fast food, beer, and cigarettes are pervasive and she smiles to herself as she sits back in the seat.  Al is apparently in no mood for chit chat so she sits quietly for the first two blocks.  Then, without turning her head, she says, "No lies, Al.  Not for you."  She pauses to gather her courage, fishing a pack of Lucky Strikes from a pocket and taking two out, offering one to Al.  Replacing the pack she draws a large Zippo lighter from another pocket and lights first hers then his before putting it back.  She takes a few drags then says, "That missing person is my lover.  The name she gave me to call her is Calista, although I know of several others.  I met her about a year ago now at a social function we both attended.  Something clicked between us and we ended up in bed.  It was all perfect for about a month, then she disappeared.  Just vanished.  It was unlike her and I followed her to the Containment Zone and then to Below.  She had been kidnapped by House Valerian and they were torturing her.  In my best quixotic fashion I offered to give myself if they would release her.  They agreed and I was tortured to almost death.  Calista rescued me and took me to a doctor there who patched me up, physically at least.  My body was repaired, but my implants were now drek and she took me to another place for them to be repaired and replaced.  I was in surgery and recovering for weeks.  When I was as good as Dicer could make me they told me that Calista had disappeared right after dropping me off.  Several weeks missing.  Iris is another of Calista's friends and she helped me try to find her.  Classical critical failure so far.  Not one hint or clue.  Just nothing.  We used up tons of contacts and I called in every favor I could.  Still nothing."
 
"Like you.  Just fragging like you.  I went back to Cambodia after dropping that fragging artifact off with Ling Tse Tau's grandfather.  I wanted to tell you how foolish I had been.  To tell you that I loved you and that.........well, lots of things.  But you were gone.  I asked all over the city, even hired a couple of hard men to be my escorts and went to every river bar, dive, and drug den I could find. Nothing.  I put money out to every resource I could think of.  You keep nothing wireless, but I tried anyway, just in case.  I sent queries out to every shipping company I could find.  Nothing.  Some information would come across my desk every year or so and I would catch a plane to some port or city, wherever the clue was, but it was always a false lead.  You remember that beater 'link I bought in Andoung Tuek?  It is in a drawer at home, tied to only one comm code; the one I gave you in the note I left you.  I look at it almost every day to see if it is still working.  It is set to forward to me the only call it can ever accept.  So far, it has never rang."
 
Tears are falling unchecked as she continues, "I know that you had another woman you were staying loyal to and refused to be the person to come between you.  Maybe you are still tied.  If so, just tell me to push off and I will not bother you.  But I want you to know how I feel, just in case you are now available.  And I also want you to know that things in my life are complicated right now.  You walking into that diner brought back so many memories.  I...................I..................I want you, Al.  Plain and simple.  I love you.  I love Calista, too, and there will be some anguish when I find her.  But I am a big girl and will work through these things."
 
Robyn stubs out her cigarette in the overfull ashtray and turns her tear streaked face to Al.  "Here is where you say something.  Anything.  Or perhaps nothing.  If this is too much, just stop the car and Al and I will get out and catch a cab.  I am sorry if I have spoken out of place, but I wasted eight years of my life because I did not say something back then and I do not want to waste more.  I need you to know how I feel, even if you are not in a position to feel the same."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-27-16/1517:28>

Al had started out driving fast, and the more she talked the faster he drove.

He took in every word, and it might have caught his heart in his chest, but it was flooding in too fast.

It was the whispered confession in his ear times a hundred.

And now she smoked his brand. Lit them with a Zippo just like his own. Her damn hellhound's name was his. It was creepy and he knew it. Told himself to remember it the next time she touched him. Or whispered in his ear. But he doubted he would.

By the time she was done filling his mind with more than he could process in a week, he had reached the Ram's Head, pulled a bootlegger's turn, and drifted sideways across the wet asphalt into an otherwise impossible parking space.

He sat and finished his cigarette, feeling her silent pleas for him to speak, but saying nothing. He got out of the car, and with no space between his car and the one in front, vaulted the hood of his BMW. Opened her door and offered his hand. There was no way he could talk to her about anything resembling his feelings right now. But he reckoned he could state some facts. Kept hold of her hand once she'd stood, held it there in the rain for a few moments, not letting the beast out yet.

"Back then, inna jungle. They warn't no other woman then." He took her umbrella from her lace-gloved hand and opened it over her, handed it to her. "And they ain't been nary a one since, neither."

Then he turned on his heel and walked away from her into the pub.

She could do what she liked with the dog.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-27-16/1627:08>

Iris had actually left before Al and Robyn- or Alyce, apparently- by virtue of a good parking spot and not having to sweep a month's stale detritus into the back seat of her car, then make room for an old flame and her pet hellhound. She did not, however, break the speed limit as flagrantly or masterfully as Al did, so he beat her to the pub that Isaint had suggested, but only just. She parked out front, a sure invitation to steal her car- if one wanted to commit any number of ways of artful suicide- took one look at Robyn as she exited the drekked-up BMW and retrieved her "dog" and then turned to follow Al inside.

Iris didn't waste time looking around. She'd seen where the pub was, what the street outside looked like, and made her own conclusions. It was a step up from Angel's, certainly, a dive that was meant to be a dive rather than being bloody seedy. She followed Al toward the bar, a sensible choice if ever there was one, and slid onto a stool with a rippling undulation of calves, hips, abs, and shoulders, that ended in a toss of her bright golden hair.

"That is not the face of a happy man." Iris opined lightly without looking at Al. She raised a hand to the bartender. "Scotch. Two, and none of that fragging well drek either." She glanced to her left and winced. "Better make them both doubles." Then she swiveled on her barstool and in a velvety half-whisper that bore only concern to the casual listener asked, "Hey, sweetie, are you going to be alright?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-27-16/1641:04>

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <01-27-16/0301:55>

"So you still have the Mirage? Normally I'd say I race you there, but while on the job I try to commit only one illegal act at a time."[/color]

I wouldn't race you even if one of your tire was flat. I love danger, but even a crazy dude like me knows a lost cause.

Deckard adjust his goggles back on his face and entered the destination into his 'link. His bike was modified to override the gridlink, the one thing he liked about gridlink: it was safe! The bike almost pilot itself to the destination, Deckard only balancing and counter balancing his body during sharper turns. He used the garage belonging to the pub, so his bike would hopefully dry and stay this way, and get a mediocrum of security.

Making his way to the pub, as everyone was arriving, he spot Iris ordering drinks for herself and... Al? As he passed by to head to the private room, she said

Quote from: BrickyardBabe on <01-27-16/1627:08>

"Hey, sweetie, are you going to be alright?"

That was obviously not directed at Deckard, but as he casually walked by he answered.
I'll be just fine sweetheart. 'Just a small bruise.

And he continued toward the room.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-27-16/1654:00>

Isaint looked on as his new team mates filed out from this dump. To his great relieve he found his bike and the car where he had left them and even more without blood or the smell of cordite in the air.
<<Arthur: City protocol, follow and observe. Susi: Drop stealth, Wrapper two, full defense and observe>>

Isaint got on his bike and sped along as fast as the dense city traffic allowed. He didn't try to engage Rick while he drove. The man had changed since the last time he saw him. Somehow he seemed to be hollow and brittle - he would have to discretely ask about that topic.
Neither had he missed the fact that Al had seemingly managed to find an ex-girlfriend and her new friend. Even if Isaint had known any advice for Al, he'd rather have stuck his hand in boiling oil than tried to navigate such an emotional minefield.

Jackhammer seemed to be even more frustrated than the last time they had seen each other. Amazingly that left only him and the gnome for harmless chit-chat. But than, the drive wasn't that long anyway. Better to concentrate on the road in this weather.

The King's Head appeared on his HUD and Isaint made sure that the parking garage across had some spots free on the ground floor.
He only sighed when he saw the ridiculous rates those guys asked for parking a mere 30 minutes. 'Business expenses, just don't forget the receipt'.

Taking of the helmet, he debated with himself if he should bring Arthur but decided against. He didn't want to remove the FBA and it always paid to have your gear guarded - even here in a relative secure part of the city.

Once done, he crossed the street and entered the pub. "We booked the Green Drawing room. Party of seven."
"Up the stairs and to the left", came the reply. Isaint followed the directions and found a cozy looking room with a low ceiling, small windows and a genuine wooden floor that had to be at least one and a half century old.
Having not eaten previously during his meditations, he now felt ravenous. With a quick gesture he activated the AR menu and ordered the famous Shep'n'Ale combo before occupying the seat at the head of the table.
While waiting that the others arrived, he turned to Deckard:
"Say mate, you do look a bit subdued. That bruise... you aren't having any family trouble, do you?"


#246

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-27-16/1713:49>

Al's silence was deafening.  And crushing.  She waited as he opened her door and helped her out of the car into the rain.  When he does speak, the words are like a spear thrust directly into her heart.  She barely notices when he turns abruptly and walks away from her.  Her umbrella and cane fall from numb fingers and she turns her unseeing face to the sky, letting the rain wash her tears away as she wordlessly asks an unhearing God "Why?"  Sinking to her knees in the pouring rain, Alyce's mutated brain goes over every aspect of that trip to Cambodia and relives every misstep she made.  Every mistake.  A bit of warmth nuzzles against her face and she put her arms around the Hell Hound standing near her.  "At least one of my Al's loves me, doesn't he?"  Alyce feels about in the mud for her cane and umbrella and works her way to a standing position, folding the umbrella and slipping it under her arm.
 
She faces the pub and takes a moment to clear her mind.  She has been rejected before, for any number of flaws.  This one has hurt the most.  Ever.  But she can get over it.  Strangely enough, even though Al has turned away from her, she knows that she would do it all again.  He might not want her, but she realizes with a calm certainty that she still loves him.  She will always love him.  She will not push the issue, as he has made his point clear enough, but her heart will harbor more than enough love anyway.  Straightening, she calls Al and walks to the pub with her head high, the cane only slightly needed to help with her limp.  She knows that she is a valuable asset to the team and will not let this get in the way.  She is a professional.  By the time she reaches the sidewalk, the rain has washed most of the mud away.  She releases little Sasha to park at the awning over the doorway and observe the comings and goings at the entrance.  The man just inside the door starts to say something about the dog, but stops when she flashes the card indicating that he is a licensed service animal.
 
As she uses her enhanced senses, she releases Misha to keep track of things inside the building.  She turns to the doorman and mentions that she is expected at a private meeting and the man looks her up and down, obviously thinking he knows just exactly what she is there for, but the hound at her side stops the words from forming.  He escorts her to the room and opens the door for her.  Her ears pick out the voices of those who have already arrived and she walks carefully to join them after silently commanding Misha to park outside the room.  When some fall silent at her approach, she says, "Sorry about my appearance.  Umbrellas are not made like they used to be, I guess.  I will try to get my money back for this one.  As it is, I am soaked to the skin, so should probably sit at the far end of the table from the rest of you so I do not get everyone wet.  My apologies, for sure."  Saying this, Alyce moves to the next table over and takes a seat, Al taking up a spot on the floor next to her.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-27-16/1724:33>

Halfpint had enjoyed the ride alone, he gathered his thoughts about "the below". He'd not been entirely honest about his experience with it, and he'd hoped no-one was going to question him, he was a shit liar.
He guided the big van into a tiny spot, ultrasound parking sensors blaring in protest, before jumping down from the cab into a puddle and cursing at his wet trousers. He tried to shake off the worst as he crossed the street, waving in thanks at a generous old bird who'd let him run across.
The doorman eyed him warily as he hurried behind the last of the others and said the immortal lines "I'm with them", feeling like an underage drinker trying to sneak into a club all over again.
Al and Alyce seemed distant, wrapped up in their own thoughts, probably fearing what lay ahead as Halfpint figured they probably all would be doing right now. He hopped up onto a bar stool, still only shoulder height up to the bar and tried to get the bartender's attention.
Half an IPA please mate, Stick it on the tab for the private room upstairs would ya?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-27-16/1837:06>

Al gladly accepted the drink. Then he grinned huge like an unshaven wolf, cigarette jutting from one side. "Heh, hon, ol' Al ain't never not all right."

He wasn't feeling it, and he figured maybe this one could see that, but if she wanted to look that hard she was welcome to it.

In any case, he appreciated her kindness. Though he was starting to worry he might have to punch someone soon. Literally every man in the place had their eyes on her, and some looked like they were getting antsy.

Naturally he congratulated himself on being the one she was talking to.

Then he played back the sequence and words of his last couple of conversations in his mind, and realized that she and Alyce were communicating with each other amidst his little personal drama. Which meant the Princess here had an idea what was going on.

"Yeah," he started again, more seriously, "I'll be all right. Git there one path or t'other. Jist need a minute ta git my bearin's, I reckon. Tell her that, would ya, next time yer doin' girl talk. Tell 'er in a way'll git through her thick head. Cuz ain't like I'm gon' have much chance for peaceful cogitation in the next couple days, it don't seem."

Then he turned and called to the bartender. "Belay that, amigo. The IPA's on me." He stuck his hand out to the tiny creature on the bar stool, grateful for the opportunity to catch up on his manners. "Alouicious Harlan Guthrie, esquire, at yer service. An' this here tall glass o' water's Iris."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-27-16/2146:20>

Jackhammer walked outside behind the little one, then watched as Al and that steampunk girl sped off, spraying the curb with tire splash. He watched them go for a while, trying to figure out how they might know each other, before he snapped back to the present. Trouble was, little guy was gone. An indignant sneer crossed his face as he looked behind him and back towards the establishment. He turned back in time to see a van pull around the corner and out of sight. "Drek, really?"

The cab pulled up to the King's Head in what Jackhammer figured was cabby scenic route time. Not feeling too generous, he paid without a tip and stepped into the street. A guy on some piece of drek bike honked his excuse for a horn as Jackhammer enjoyed a leisurely crossing. Sometimes it was nice to just remember where you were in the natural order. And Jackhammer knew that out here on the streets he was at the top of the food chain.

Once in the doors, Jackhammer snapped his jacket once to clear the rain. He looked at the door man and began, "I'm here with some--" the guy was pointing with his thumb before the rest of the words made it out. Jackhammer shrugged and moved on, his heavy bootfall announcing his arrival before he reached the top of the stairs. Once in the room, he noted a few of the team seated together and the cute blind girl conveniently sitting alone, and looking a bit wet. Jackhammer strode up and tapped out a drink order on his 'link before seating himself next to her. "By the way, my name's--" he paused slightly, still feeling a bit alien with his introductions in this shadow world, "--Jackhammer."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-28-16/0017:08>

Robyn passes by Al and Iris at the bar on the way in, but decides to just push on.   Once in the private room she sits at the table where she will be less likely to get people wet.  She pops up the virtual menu and orders the Shep'n'Ale special as recommended, and then watches as the others file into the room.   She is brought out of her funk when a man sits down next to her and introduces himself.  She turns her face to him and smiles as she holds out a hand.  "It is nice to meet you, Jackhammer.  My name is Robyn Lysander.  Sorry to be so wet, but my umbrella chose a remarkably bad time to bloody fail."  She reaches into one of her packets and pulls out a soggy pack of Lucky Strikes.  Frowning, she turns back to Jackhammer.  "Drek.  I guess the rain fragged the bloody things.  Would you happen to have a fag on you?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-28-16/0048:14>

Jackhammer blinked at the woman, staring down at her wet cigarettes. It took a moment, but the light came on and he figured out what she was asking. "Those things will kill you." he said with a shake of his head. "But I'll buy you a drink. Something to warm you up." he offered, pulling out his 'link and reconnecting to the menu.

"Uh... do you need me to read it to you?" Jackhammer asked nervously, quickly adding "The drink menu?" With a big ork with a little commlink sitting next to a strange blind girl, it might have been an almost comical scene to onlookers. Jackhammer only had two good jokes for people who liked to laugh at him though, and they were both busy trying to work a touchscreen menu. "Oh, and uh, nice to meet you too."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-28-16/0132:59>

Robyn stops to consider the man then nods.  "Yes there is a good chance that these bloody things will kill me some day, but I am sixty-five years old and still kicking about.  I actually quit once for several years, then fell off the wagon again about eight years ago.  And one would think a doctor would know better, right?  And it is kind of you to offer me a drink, but I had a whiskey at Angel's and have ordered an ale with dinner.  While it is ever so tempting to have another, I know my limits and more than that could have my clothes falling off and that could embarrass several people.  So I am afraid that I will have to say no to your kind offer.  But it is sweet of you to ask.  Oh, yes.  This place sells fags and I can get a pack sent up."

In a flash, she pulls up her virtual menu and orders two packs of Lucky Strikes.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-28-16/0149:54>

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <01-27-16/1654:00>

"Say mate, you do look a bit subdued. That bruise... you aren't having any family trouble, do you?"

Deckard seemed surprised by the question. His jaw clenched a bit. I... yeah... you could say that. His eyes came close to watering; it still hurt him a lot simply to think about Cora. He touched his cheekbone again. But that ain't it. It's a family of sort but definitely not mine.
His stared at ISaint. The bruising is just a small altercation with the Russians. I may have borrowed some money without reading all the fine print.
He omitted any comment about the passing of his wife. Maybe he just wasn't ready.

Robyn entered all wet, like the rest of some of them. ISaint had rode their bike in the rain, the two of them were wet too! Deckard had his coat drying on a chair. Don't worry, it's gonna take some time for a few of us to dry too.   

Everyone made their way finally to the private room.
So let see if I got that right, he said pointing at each one.
ISaint, Jackahammer, Half-Pint, Ms Robyn, Isis, and that would be what, short Al and Big Al, pointing first at human Al then the huge creature.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-28-16/0331:05>

Robyn notices when the others come in, to include Al, Iris, and Halfpint.  She nods at Deckard as he lists the team members by name.  "Yes, for me, but you do not need to place the Ms in.  I am perfectly happy with just Robyn."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-28-16/0821:45>

He nodded at Al in thanks, cheers mate, thanks very much. Nice to meet you too, iris! Seems like a few of you guys worked together before? You guys spent much time below?
He took the half pint glass and took a sip, for most humans the half punt was a small portion, but for him, it would last most of the night unless things got fun.
He followed the others upstairs whilst chatting and nodded as he was introduced to the other members of the team. Most towered above him as he saw the world from the height of a child, even as a fully grown adult. He popped onto the end of the bench at the long table and took a long glue of the hoppy ale and wiped his stubble clean of the head

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-28-16/0955:20>

Isaint did a short head count and nodded satisfied. The team had assembled and was probably as ready for business as it would get.
"So, Ladies and Gentlemen, Chummers and Chummerinas, it's time for a little audit. Most of you know some of the others, but for this mission we'll need full disclosure about our pooled resources and abilities."
He made his commlink display an AR construct with the data they had received from their Johnson while making also sure to send Al a 2D version on his link.

"As you probably all know, the Underplex is quite secure towards the topside - getting in and out with weaponry or tools of the trade would be pretty challenging  - not to mention the goods we want to transport.
That's probably why our Johnson suggested the route through Below. My personal experience with this place is pretty bad, but I'll defer that part to Iris and Robyn as I gather that they have a bit more experience regarding routes through that place.

Which brings me back to my initial statement: What do you have and what can you do and where do you need help. Don't hessitate to admit the last part. We are venturing into a pretty unforgiving environment. If you keel over because you have a mold allergy and didn't tell us, that might put a severe crimp in our style.

So I'll start: My handle is Isaint, I'm what's colloquially called a Physical-Adept, specialized on speed, gun play and stealth. I have quite a bit experience with urban warfare tactics and bodyguarding. I see it as my primary job to keep you all alive.
I do carry a lot of gadgets with me - the latest being an upgraded sparring drone, acting as my driver, paramedic and sentry. People tell me, that my greatest weakness is my lack of social tact. So don't hesitate to remind me of that when I'm about to commit a social faux pas.

My take on this situation is, we find out what we can about the target in the Underplex, look for the closest entrance to Below and secure the route beforehand. When we hit the target we hopefully have the advantage of a simultaneous distraction. Ideally we go in and out quietly. If that's not possible, we go in quiet and out really loud, get into Below and collapse the way behind us.

Your turn."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-28-16/1046:28>

Iris listened as Isaint laid out his bona fides, idly wondering who'd died and made this big lug God. Then she shrugged mentally. Didn't matter, she supposed. She was here on a job, and she'd do her job to the utmost. If he thought collapsing a way into or out of below was going to be easy though, he was in for quite a surprise.

Iris had remained standing, her back against the wall by the door, one leg bent to bring her foot up to rest on the wall. When Isaint finished speaking, she reached down to stroke the top of her wand and said, "I'll go next." She tapped the outside of one eye, which glittered and shifted in hue as she looked around the room. "I am called Iris on account of my eyes. To save tiresome questions, yes, they are real and yes, they came like that." She smiled along the table at Isaint and Deckard. "I am a mage and initiate of the second grade, as well as something of a social butterfly and passable knife-fighter. My skills in magic lie primarily in the direction of Health and Mental manipulation, though I am a fair combat sorceress." She drew her wand from her boot slowly, the slim length of elegantly carved black wood shining in the light of the conference room. "In terms of general assets, what you see is mostly what you get," she smirked and gave a vague gesture toward her chest, "and that has usually gotten me where I need to go without fighting, but for the sake of completeness..."

Iris activated her wand, the power focus roaring to life astrally, though to mundane eyes the carved designs and flowing script began to glow, mirroring the colors reflected in Iris' eyes.

"There is also this." She deactivated the wand and slid it home, saying, "I have a knife in my other boot that is similar, though far less powerful." She crossed her arms under her breasts again and said, "I am reasonably facile with recognizing, reading, ferreting out, and controlling thoughts as well. And I'm sure you've all noticed the voice. I am a dryad, so I am gifted with a singular ability to talk and sing and perform, which I prefer to employ to forestall combat as long as possible."

Iris met Isaint's eyes and said, "I think your plan has some merits, but also some flaws that are rooted in Below. Firstly, the idea of collapsing an entrance is...not without pitfalls. The West End is something of a disaster, structurally, especially around Shadowtown. The blast required to collapse an entrance to Below, which are usually somewhat reinforced and fortified and may be guarded in other ways, could wreak havoc on London Above. Collapsing tunnels usually does not pan out very well for the environment directly atop them." She shrugged. "I do not know if that is a concern to you."

"Second, securing a route in Below and then traversing it would require us to split our strengths over a considerable area." Iris continued doggedly. "The West End is close to Earl's Court and the seats of many of the powers Below. Without a guarantee of passage from one of the houses, we would be easy pickings if we tried to scatter to hold a route open, and if we simply cleared one and then went on our way, we would not find it as we left it. Below abhors a vacuum. I would not recommend a writ of protection from the first house, anymore. There are those who would not honor it, but there are several powers that might grant us passage and make our lives much easier. Several that we could use as cover as well, appearing to be on house business."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-28-16/1101:52>

"Thanks and duly noted. No collapsing tunnels." Isaint respectfully inclined his head towards the sorceress.

"But maybe we can get our hands on some foam grenades or other means of slowing pursuers.

In your opinion, are those guards you mentioned enough of a deterrent that a corp sec force won't try to follow us?

In any case this sounds as if a little diplomatic mission prior to the heist would be prudent to secure an in- and egress with the least amount of trouble.

On that point - just so you know, I have to admit that the last run in Al, Jackhammer and I had with the House of Flowers will quite probably have made us some enemies there."

#248

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-28-16/1148:10>

Iris considered the question for a moment. "It...depends," she said with a grimace, "like so much else in Below. Some entrances are more well-used than others, some lead to more interesting places. An entrance into The Warrens won't have the same security as one that leads you to the doors of The Iron Company or The Void Court. In the West End, though?" She pursed her lips, then nodded. "Yes, I believe they would. And even if they did not, crossing the Grand Span at Knight's Bridge to get into the court proper would lead them past the Tolltaker Knighthood, and not even a Firewatch team is going to find them a simple matter to pass."

Iris looked at Al and Jackhammer with some new respect, smirking. "I'm impressed, sirs. House Laesal is not to be taken lightly. There may be hope for you below yet." She shrugged artlessly. "I am not much beloved of The House of Flowers myself. If any amongst you have any musical or performance talent, we could form a troupe and guards and go by way of The Night Symphony. If anyone has any juicy paydata they're looking to offload, we could try the Webweavers. Otherwise, we fall back on our militant skills and talk to the Iron Company or The Void Court. One always needs grist for the mill, and the other is...well, an unknown, though Brannagh at least is known to me. Her court deals in necromancy, augury, and the summoning and binding of spirits, but little is known about their motives."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-28-16/1216:58>

ISaint description was pretty accurate for the time they had worked together. He could have emphasis the stealth part by explaining about his face changing abilities, which could be startling for some. Heck, if not for his own Astral sight, Deckard may not even have recognized him earlier.

Then Iris made her introduction. His mouth dropped, but not for the same reason than most mundanes. Big boobs, Barbie doll looks were not his style of women; heck Cora was this cute tiny brunette would could walk unnoticed in the street, until she smiled that was.... The mouth dropping surprise was at the most powerful magical artefact he's ever seen! When the girl activated the focus, the astral world came to life with an aura he'd never seen before. Whao... can I touch? Of course after Iris presentation of her physical 'assets' that sounded very wrong.

I guess I'll go next...
I go by Deckard, Magician extraordinaire, Bounty Hunter and Occult Investigator. I'm the best telekinesis you'll find this side of the pond. For those who know, he looked back at Iris, I'm an Initiate of the Higher Arts too, i.e. fancy word for badass magical talents, really. I can basically 'read' or feel past events that happened around objects. It's known as Psychometry. Pretty useful for investigations. And in a quest to communiate better with Spirits, I've lately developed some interesting bonding capabilities. So don't freak out if you ever see me with an energy aura or something.
Combat isn't my specialty, no fireball or mind wrenching death ray, sorry, but my old man taught me to never leave the house without my gun. I'm not saying I can bullseye every time, but I've practiced at least. 
Outside of that, well I'm known for breaking things down on the occasion. Not sure why... sorry. Oh and I hate snakes!  But my biggest weakness is to never dare reminding ISaint of his social faux-pas, so bare with him, he always means well.

As for the run... well, I'm afraid my experience with Below is limited, I'm glad with have more experienced consultants here. I've heard it's an entire different world on intrigue and trichery so I'll need some brush up on the politics there if we are to mingle with the populace. Iris, you seem to be confirming this.


#18

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-28-16/1251:17>

Jackhammer spins his chair around and sits with his arms crossed over the back. The faux wood protests under his weight as he settles in. He speaks up to make sure nobody accidentally starts talking over him. "I'm Jackhammer. I win fights. Don't ask me to do computers or fix your car. I keep things simple. Guns, fists, driving... and I actually use a bow. Like a hunting bow, if it shot rebar." He takes a long drink, but holds up one finger so everybody knew he isn't done.

"And below," he starts again, wiping his mouth with his sleeve, "nasty place. Stay away from fog, watch out for ghosts. Clowns..." he shrugs, tipping his head to one side in resignation, "they're alright. Everyone else is either a stupid fragger or an outright killer, so don't feel like you need to conserve ammo. But don't go picking fights either." With the last line, Jackhammer stands to emphasize his exceptional frame. "That's my job."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-28-16/1307:43>

Iris' gaze flattened as she looked Jackhammer up and down and she uncrossed her arms, her wand sliding out again and its script flaring back to life. "I'd be careful of those words, Mr. Hammer." She said softly. She squared her shoulders to face him more fully. "Less charitable folk than I would be inclined to make you eat them." The message and the stance were clear, and the challenge inherent in both. Iris wasn't worried. The day she couldn't blow one muscle-bound clod across this conference room with a breathy word, she'd hang up her wand, sell her reagents, and take up underwater basket weaving.

Her eyes not leaving JackHammer's, Iris clarified, "For those who think that brevity is not always the soul of explanation, if not wit, I believe our physically-minded compatriot means the Harlequinade. They have business with the Night Symphony often enough, and other houses besides. They masquerade as a troupe of players and musicians, but I and others are most curious what it is they really do, when they're not putting on brightly painted faces for the rest of us." Without a hint of the smirk she so badly wanted to put on, Iris added, "Having someone to pick fights is a useful asset. Much like a canary."

Iris glanced at Deckard and deactivated her wand, handing it over. "Here." She said. "Examine it to your heart's content. Once this is all over, or if we get a significant amount of breathing space, perhaps we can work out a deal and I can make you a similar one." WIthout her wand, Iris seemed no less confident and her gaze returned to Jackhammer for a moment before drifting to Isaint, and then the others. "Despite Mr. Hammer's blanket accusations, Below isn't so different from above. It has its rogues and villains, its heroes and its average citizens. It is a place of weirdness and the locals have learned to adapt to that, but despite Mr. Hammer's words, most of them are simply normal people trying to go about abnormal lives. Being Below means they are different in some manner, but that can be as simple as fleeing persecution for being changelings or metas." She shrugged again. "But by all means, if slaughtering civilians and drawing the wrath of the great houses down upon you doesn't concern you then by all means," her voice dripped condescension on the last few words, "'don't feel like you have to conserve ammo.'"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-28-16/1347:46>

ROBYN:

Robyn waits for her turn to talk then provides the information requested. 

"My name is Robyn Lysander, although some of you may know me as Alyce Krait.  I am not sure why Torrent used my real name for this, but there you are and nothing for it now.  The accent I have never been able to get rid of is Russian.  I was born and raised in Vladivostok, Russian Far East.  I moved to London in '36.  I have extensive experience in communications and matrix operations, to include in Below.  I am aware of the noise restrictions there and am prepared to overcome them to make sure that you can maintain communications to the Overworld if you need it.  Most of my field experience has actually been in the field.  In the almost forty years I have been doing this, I have been on many expeditions to some of the most forbidding places on earth, mostly in jungles, swamps, and mountains and have a reputation for holding my own and keeping people alive and in communication with the outside world.  My clients include just about every AAA corporation and many AAs as well as most of the major crime syndicates and I hope that does not bother anyone.  I have significant loyalties and personal ties to EVO Corporation and to the Vory, but what happens on ANY specific team I am employed by stays on that team and my contacts know and respect that.  It would be unprofessional of me to describe any of my missions in detail and I would not expect any of you to want me to violate that trust, but I can provide contact information if anyone wishes to check on some of my bonafides.  Despite any perception of an infirmity, I am a board certified surgeon with specialties in bullet wound trauma and secondary specialties in the repair and replacement of bio and cyber ware.  I will bloody well keep you alive and moving."  She touches the rather obvious tattoo of a seven-headed serpent that covers most of the right side of her face.  "I believe that another reason Torrent recommended me for this is my relationship with the people Below.  I am a ward of the Earl of Below and the Earl's House and as such receive the benefits of the protection that affords me.  This usually means that I have the ability to walk among most of the areas Below without fear of being attacked.  That protection is not universal and there are areas where I would be ill-advised to travel without significant numbers of very deadly companions.  I also have close ties to The Old One; a very influential player in the politics below even though not directly aligned with any of the Houses.  Oh, almost forgot.  I have a skill that may not come into play here, but might.  I am a pretty decent cook and can prepare meals for us to eat from just about anything.  I have a wide range of recipes available and can pretty much satisfy any taste.  I can set a store of foodstuffs if we think that this might take more than a day."
 
"Assets:  I have a mutated brain that allows me to remember and recall just about everything I have ever seen, heard, done, etc.  It means I have pretty much an improved sort of photographic memory, so be careful what you tell me as I will probably remember it.  I have a very good medkit that can assist me, as well as a number of stim, trauma, and antidote patches I can use to keep people moving in an emergency until I get a chance to take a good look at them.  I have an exceptional set of implanted sensory enhancements that allow me to compensate for my blindness and can hear, smell, taste and feel far better than most people can.  I also have implanted ultrasound and radar sensors that allow me to have a very good view of the area around me and can peek through most walls.  I have a very good deck and commlink implanted and I think that the software and module packages are very good, but I would be very happy to consult with any of you to compare notes on hacking and matrix security.  Speaking of which, I would certainly recommend considering linking some of your devices to my deck or to my or someone's commlink so as to gain the protection of a good firewall unless your own is very good.  I use two micro drones as my eyes about, as it were.  They provide me with sensory data that I can access almost as if I were seeing things.  I would dearly like to communicate with Halfpint and anyone else that uses drones so that we can get a good security system organized without duplicating our efforts.  I have and can bring with us a customized Mule.  This will allow us to carry a good bit of supplies and equipment at a decent pace and can certainly provide a means of transporting me if I need to go into VR for any reason while we are in motion, thus preventing others from having to carry an unconscious body about, which can be quite a chore.  This can certainly work in conjunction with the Mule offered by the Johnson.  Finally, but certainly not least, I have my own Al.  It is certainly unplanned that he and his namesake should be in the same team, but there it is.  He is a trained guardian and service animal.  For those without knowledge of this great beast, he is dual natured, which means that he can see and act against threats in the astral as well as the meat world.  He is definitely not your normal chase-the-stick sort of pet, so please do not mistake him for one.  I would not advise not trying to pet him, although he does seem to accept my touch.  Also, if anyone here has not yet allowed him to get a good sniff, please do, as that will keep him from jumping to my defense if you happen to be getting too close."
 
"Negatives:  No lies, I have several.  Certainly my blindness can be an issue, mainly in how people perceive me.  I have few if any skills that could be considered combat oriented and do not pretend to have any.  My services are advertised as strictly support, and Torrent knows that, so the rest of you must be the muscle here.  It is possible to act as a combat hacker, but my experience in doing that is limited and it would be wrong to assume it of me for planning purposes.  Certainly, I can affect a battle with enough prior work by neutralizing some of the enemy capabilities, but a spur of the moment engagement is not my long suit.  Also, while my affiliation with the Earl's House is mostly a positive thing, it can also work against us.  I am sure it comes as no big surprise that the thirteen Houses are not always in agreement.  I also have personal issues with House Valerian due to an unfortunate incident with their Mistress.  I interceded in her torture of a very close and personal friend and was tortured myself for about fourteen hours.  Without getting into the extremely gruesome details, let's just say that it was unpleasant.  We escaped and earned the anger of Melissa and her House in the process.  The torture has left me with the slight limp I am sure all of you have noticed but have been polite enough to not mention.  I use a cane to walk with, but do not consider it a major disability.  Additionally, my friend disappeared shortly after rescuing me and I fear some sort of misconduct on the part of Melissa.  Going Below may attract more attention to you because I am present and is something to consider."
 
"It should be noted that I do share some experiences with two of us here.  Iris is a close associate that has been helping me find my missing friend.  I have grown to rely on her talents and advice like a sister and friend.  But like sisters, we do have our small disagreements.  Be aware, though, that also like sisters, we can stand together against a common foe.  And I know Al from an expedition we were both on in Cambodia in '68.  We grew to have a significant appreciation of each other's talents.  I would put my life in his hands at any time without any question and know that he could get me through.  He is a truly stand-up guy and a loyal friend.  I have missed his presence since we separated and could have used him on any of the expeditions I have been on since.  And before too many of you ask, yes, I named my Hell Hound guardian after Al Guthrie here."
 
"So, I know that was bloody long-winded.  Any questions for me?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-28-16/1354:32>

Jackhammer looked at Iris, then around at everyone else and shrugged. He knew that somebody had to "fit in" down there in the below, but his entire experience had been that the people there were batdrek insane, and all but a few clowns and a hotel owner that he'd met had at some point assaulted him or his team. And frankly, he figured, they ought to be grateful that none of them had been bludgeoned to death. In fact, he couldn't actually remember killing any of them. That thought made him a twinge regretful, and he began to ponder on what he could have, or should have, done differently. Then he washed the thought away with another drink.

He looked at Iris impassively. He wasn't totally sure, but it sounded like she might have threatened him. She had a stick she seemed fond of, but it didn't look too special. And of course she said she had a knife. But when it came to crazy women with knives, Jackhammer considered himself somewhat of an expert. In fact, one such anecdote was the whole reason he knew better than to get involved with women who looked... like that. Of course, he'd never met a woman who did that whole look quite like this one, so he certainly didn't mind letting his eyes linger. He smirked and looked back towards Robyn as his thoughts were overtaken by amusing scenes of this Iris girl trying to put a knife where it counts.

Once Robyn had finished speaking, Jackhammer looked to Al and back to her. "Group Safari with Al I guess? I didn't think shadow runners lived that long after entering the business. I guess she's the girl for the job. And I guess Al is... durable." Jackhammer mused to himself. He thought for a moment, digging for a good question, not wanting to waste an opportunity to engage Robyn. As he looked around for some salted nuts to chew on, it came to him. "Do you know how to make dumplings? That's my favorite."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-28-16/1410:31>

Iris blushed slightly and nodded at Robyn's detailed inventory of her skills, assets, and liabilities. "That does remind me," she began, "as Deckard here has no doubt surmised by now, I have a number of sustaining spells attached to me, and the wand he is currently holding as well as this," she bent at the hips, drawing a long knife that appeared modeled after a slim-bladed cougar fineblade, "do make me rather obvious astrally." Iris rotated the spellblade across her knuckles and proffered it to Deckard, her gaze still on Jackhammer and the challenge still clear in her eyes as she continued, "I can hide physically, but magical perception is an easy way to ferret me out. I can sleaze past wards and barriers, and I can render my aura unreadable and untraceable, but I cannot render it invisible."

The knife Iris handed Deckard was modest, as weapon foci went, nothing like the stunning wand she'd handed him. It was based on the cougar model it appeared to be, but there were embellishments, such as the chimera-leather wrapped around the hilt and the carvings in the blade. There were seven of them, single glyphs or runes inlaid with powdered or crushed gemstone: ruby, citrine, topaz, emerald, sapphire, amethyst, and onyx from hilt to tip on both sides. It was rainbow color scale, province of the goddess from which Iris took her street name. The wand was black wood, ebony or dark-stained hawthorne and the hair-fine carvings were inlaid with ivory and amber.Only a small white spot at the tip betrayed the composition of its core, a spindle of bone barely thicker than a needle that she'd paid dearly to have from a dragon's skeleton.

Straightening up, Iris said, "Without my wand, additionally, I am limited in my combat magics. I can stun, and I can rot the flesh from an enemy's bones with a touch, or cause pain or ecstasy with a word, but I cannot hurl lightning bolts, large explosions, or lances of death without my tools."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-28-16/1600:55>

Al listened and smoked as his new coworkers outlined their qualifications.

Figured he'd better do the same.

"Reckon y'all know my name. I know karate. Voodoo too. An' I'm gonna make myself available to you."

He shrugged.

"'Nuff said."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-28-16/1650:20>

I'm here to provide eyes and ears. And big guns. But only if we need them. I'm a rigger and will be bringing a recon fleet and fire support. Never been much of a brawler, given my size an' all but when I'm on the job, I'm usually in my cocoon. My gear ain't subtle, but it packs enough punch to collapse a tunnel or 6 if shit hits the fan. I've worked underground so know how to navigate and how to survive down there if we end up off the beaten path.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-28-16/1709:37>

Iris sighed through her nose. It was going to take some work to drill home that collapsing the tunnels was more likely to get every single one of them and a whole lot of bystanders killed than to do what they intended, whatever that was. "I'd refrain from High Explosive loads, at least to start, sir." She told Halfpint, not indelicately. "Again, a tunnel collapse would be bad. Damage to the surface, damage to below, dozens of dead civilians, and a cascading collapse that buries all of us are things we want to avoid, I think."

She turned to Isaint, who had been elected the team's leader, it seemed. "It behooves me to point this out again. Most of the people below are just people. Not monsters, not shadowrunners, not villains. People. I am here for a job, and I will do that job to the utmost, but I will not countenance wanton slaughter of noncombatants." She looked around the table fiercely. "If you have a problem with that, then say so now so that I may return my portion of the fee to Mr. Johnson and be on my way."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-28-16/1727:17>

my dear, I'm no fool. A situation where a tunnel collapse is a good idea is not usually one where damage to property is usually a higher concern than putting several hundred tons of rock between you and something you'd rather not be dismembered by. It is not going to be high on my to do list, I'm merely stating we have the capability, should we need it. Energy weapons and ballistics are my preferred modalities

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-28-16/1845:16>

Iris ground her teeth but didn't reply to the vaguely condescending words immediately. She wanted to, oh how she wanted to!

It was a good thing, she reflected ruefully, that Deckard was holding her wand.

After some few seconds Iris managed to unclench her jaw enough to grate out, "I am not your 'dear.' I am well aware of what I look like. It is as much a tool as your machines are to you." A sharp comment rose unbidden to her tongue, but she shut her jaw with a click, closing her opalescent eyes for a moment and exhaling slowly. When they opened again, they were almost ophidian, and her voice was perfectly level. Conversational, even.

"You may call me Iris, or Juliet, or Ms. Rhodos, or even 'you' if you so desire." She told Halfpint in her awful-calm way. "But I'll not be talked down to by you. I have worked very hard to get where I am, and to call me your dear when in a professional setting smacks of condescension, sexism, or worse, sir." Another deep breath, another exhalation. "As I said, it is the people I am concerned with, not the property, though you may find tunnels originally dug as bunkers or cut and warded by the houses to be harder to dismantle than you seem to believe."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-28-16/2003:28>

"Let's just all agree to not blow drek up or kill anybody without a good reason, huh?" Jackhammer offered, trying to move things past this whole defense of the home turf Iris seemed to be taking. "So that's all of us. You drone collectors go talk to each other while the rest of us figure out some routes and precautions. That means Iris, Deckard, and Al, you're with me." He clearly expected everyone else to get up and gather around him, which didn't seem unreasonable as he was clearly already comfortable. "And don't forget to share commcodes if you haven't already." While he waited for the others to move, he turned to his 'link and looked for a food menu. "All this drinking is making me hungry."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-28-16/2009:53>

Iris raised an eyebrow at Jackhammer, snorted slightly, and turned to Isaint. "Mr. Isaint," she began, deliberately turning her back on Jackhammer, "you seem to have the most incisive tactical mind here, and you're the common link with the Johnson and several of the team." She nodded respectfully to him, then asked, "What would you have us do?" After she asked ehr question, Iris glanced at Deckard to see if he was still examining her foci, and she made sure to keep her hands free, but inside her cloak.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-28-16/2021:22>

Al was glad some of this crap was getting sorted now rather than later, and he was silently assigning psycho points in varying amounts to various individuals, simultaneously congratulating himself on his equanimity, rationality,objectivity, and level-headedness.

He didn't really feel like moving, but then her rarely did. And nothing was going to make him disrespect Jackhammer. He got up and moved over a couple of seats to sit next to the huge ork.

Then some servers came in with big, tasty-looking pies, and he grabbed one and told them to bring one for him. Damned AR menus.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-29-16/0025:24>

Robyn smiles at the Ork.  "Yes, I can make dumplings.  I have several recipes that I can try for you.  Perhaps I can cook us all a nice celebratory meal when this is all done."

Beyond that small conversation, Robyn is content to just listen,  She is surprised that no one raised an issue about her qualifications.  Pleased, but surprised.  It does not take someone with her enhanced senses to see that there are some personality issues forming in the group.  This team is not what she is used to, to say the least.  There should be a team leader and a second and everyone else falls into their assigned role.  What is happening here is a bit confusing.  Clearing her voice, she says, "Please excuse me.  Since no one objects, it seems that I may assume the role of comms and matrix security, plus chief medic and bottle washer.  As such, I would like it if everyone passed their comm codes to me before we leave here today.  I will pass out what is needed.  May I ask to whom I am to report?  I am used to having a team leader and second.  Is that something we can decide here?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-29-16/0040:49>

Well that was just amazing. First Deckard wasn't expecting Iris would ever part from such an artifact and it did install a degree of trust, which he respected and appreciated. He inspected the wand, twisting it in his and holding it up or in line with his eye, the wood, the finish, the ivory, the bone inside... perfectly craft. But on the Astral it was just pouring power. More than most awaken shadowrunners could actually deliver. And if he heard her well, it was also used as fetish for her combat spell. He was well familiar with fetishes, as he had learned a few spell requiring specific small object to be cast. Most viewed it as a limitation, he understood it was a way to channel more power into a spell. And more power on top of what the focus itself could provide made Iris a deadly combatant.  She was underplaying but that was all part of the game.... He had his own Power Focus. The chain he was wearing around his neck may look like a regular military dog-tags, but a closer inspection would reveal intricate carvings and the insertion of jade stones. It's power was nothing spectacular but plenty enough for Deckard to enhance his Magic.

Busy salivating over the wand, he could hear what the others were arguing about, but simply wasn't listening.

When his attention came back to the ongoing discussion, he noticed Jackhammer had just called him and Al and Isis. Once the sorceress turned to face him, he  send the wand back at her adding a simple: Very impressive, thank you.

He looked around noticing there has been some arguing, but couldn't figure out what. Seeing Al getting closer to Jackhammer and remembering his name had been called, he too scooped over closer to the huge Ork, and sent Robyn his comm code.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-29-16/0137:47>

Robyn smiles at Deckard.  "Thank you, sir."  Looking up at Iris she adds, "I already have your code unless you are going to change it?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-29-16/0304:52>

Al flashed his commcode at Robyn, adding <<By the way, even in that hippy get-up, ya look great.>>

Her idea about a team leader was the best he'd heard all night. He'd thought it himself on every job he'd done since getting into this preposterous line of work.

"Team leader's Isaint," he said aloud. "Second's whoever he picks...long as it ain't me."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-29-16/0317:24>

Robyn nods as Al sends his code.  "Thank you, Al.  And thank you for nominating a leader.  Any other nominations or votes?"  She receives the other message from Al with a bit od surprise.  Is he toying with her.  Had she misunderstood him yet again?  She sends a reply.  >>Thank you for the compliment.  Um, I may have misunderstood you earlier. At the car.  Do you want to talk later?<< 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-29-16/0418:17>

Once upon a time, Isaint would have tried to interfere with squabbles like this. He knew better now. Establishing a pecking order was quite natural for such strong personalities. With an absolutely straight face he waited until the little dominance play had finished.
To Iris' question he answered:
"I too am very much in favor of preserving life where- and whenever possible. Even in self-defense we have to weigh the consequences of our actions."
He glanced at Al: "I won't tell you to use non-lethal attacks - that is a decision every one of you has to make on their own. Weak opponents can be subdued, but capable and strong opposition usually is too well secured against those tactics. In such a situation I expect the combat capable parts of our team to finish them as fast as possible, to ensure the safety of the whole team.

If need be, I'll stay behind to hold the line. The saints have helped me to get out of worse situations, so don't worry about me."

To Robyn's request he just nodded and send her a message with his commcode: <<Here. Most of us should have a very high level commlink - I at least have a whole cluster of agents to secure my equipment.>>

Turning again to Iris he said:
"In my opinion, the very first thing we need to do is gather information on our target.
Then we determine a route from and to our target. The next question is where and how and who is securing exits and entries - that includes our contact points with Below. At some point we should also locate an access point for a direct matrix connection where we can set up our decker.
The rest of the plan will have to follow from that knowledge."

Regarding the team leader comment:
"I in no way intent to order you lot around - you are all capable individuals who don't need me to explain your job to you. But for the sake of coordination I ask you to heed my requests. My military experience stems from an army that very much embraces individual initiative and I have no desire to get into micromanagement.
All I'm asking is that if at all possible you give a short notice of what you intend to do next. Below is a dangerous place and in my last venture down there we lost some team-members who might have wandered off without letting the rest know. It's one of the reasons I did accept this mission - to find out what happened to them or if they are still alive.

During tactical operations I try to use positioning and timing to maximize our chances of success - this only works if every one cooperates and tries to fill their assigned role. And again I can't really order you to do so, but what I say is usually intended to benefit you all, even if - and I can't deny that - it might put one of you temporarily at risk. If done right, it will be very hard to break or ambush us.

As my second I nominate Iris, since I gather that you are a lot better equipped to lead negotiations in below than me."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-29-16/0817:36>

Al congratulated himself on his exalted status as kingmaker. Meanwhile, he clumsily texted under the table as Isaint spoke, feeling like a damned schoolgirl. <<Well, if you thought I was never going to talk to you again, then yeah, I guess you misunderstood me. Sorry I was pissy - lot to take on board.>>

He wasn't at all surprised by Isaint's choice of second. It was the smart play operationally, the only play politically, and exactly what he'd expected to happen.

But he wasn't real sure how he felt about it.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-29-16/0940:13>

Robyn acknowledges ISaint's code and nods in his direction to indicate that she understands his message.  Her heart beats a bit faster at Al's message as she realizes that in her stupid school-girl manner, she has once again misunderstood what he had meant.  Why is it that she has so much trouble with the man? 

The lack of a clear chain of command makes her a bit nervous.  Apparently these people are less concerned and she will just have to adapt.  She is glad that Iris is second, at least in name.  The Dryad's beauty and tongue have opened many doors otherwise closed to Robyn during the search for Calista.  She will do well in the role of negotiator for passage and protection.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-29-16/1401:34>

Iris smothered her surprise, and very carefully did not smirk at Jackhammer when Isaint named her second. Instead, she nodded slowly and said, "I understand, and I appreciate your faith in me. I shall endeavour to prove that it is not misplaced." Leaning against the wall and tapping her teeth with a fingernail, she thought about where best to start. They needed information, that was true. And a hardline for a decker, and a route, and a negotiation of passage. She had a few ideas, but precious few of them could work with the information she had now.

Chewing on the corner of her lip, Iris said, "The easiest, funnily enough, will be finding a spot for our decker to set up." She flipped one hand palm up, and the small holoprojector in her glove lit up, displaying a glowing, stylized white loom. "This is the sigil for The Webweavers, also known as Whispers House. They are information merchants, and their face to the world is a technomancer." The loom faded to be replaced by a smiling, blue-eyed redheaded girl who couldn't have been more than sixteen or seventeen. "Her street handle is Whitefire. She's a sweet girl, an information broker, and if any house has a matrix hardpoint, it will be this one. Meeting their price is something we can discuss once we know what their price is, but it will probably involve data, either about what we're stealing or about something one of us is connected to." Iris shut her hand and the image winked away. "They're more fixer than muscle, so I don't anticipate any heavy combat with them if things go south."

Iris rolled her head back and forth. "I will see what I can do about securing a map and timetables. I have enough connections below to make a good start of it at least, and an apartment in The West End Underplex. One of my SINs is known there, so I can canvas a few of the locals there as well. I will be discreet," she added, looking at Isaint again, "So there's no need to warn me about the value of secrecy." She looked around at the assembled team, then back at Isaint. "Is there an angle you would like me to try when seeing what I can see about passage through Below, or will you leave it to my discretion?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-29-16/2014:15>

Jackhammer liked the idea of Isaint being the official team leader. The man seemed to have a solid, if often unrecognizable, head on his shoulders. Jackhammer trusted his judgment. At least, until he appointed Iris as his number two. His barely-disguised incredulity slowly shifted to consideration as he thought about the decision more. "This is only my second run. Makes sense it's not me. Could've been Al though. Not too sure what he's all about though. Maybe leadership isn't his calling." Slowly some nodding began as he continued in his head. "But her? Really? Trying to get us all killed?" A look of puzzlement gave way as he listened to Iris begin planning. She seemed to have ideas about what to do, and that sure beat mapsofts and guns blazing. Or at least mapsofts. And it saved him the trouble of thinking. So he sat, ordered a leg of tofurkey, and just listened. Either she'd walk them through this thing, or she'd bungle it and leave someone better in charge by default. Either way, he didn't figure her for being able to get him in so deep he couldn't dig his way back out. Not like he was stupid enough to walk through any ghost fog again.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-30-16/0223:05>

"Fast is good, safe is better. If you can find a way that combines both, that would be best. I'll leave the rest to you, but focus for the moment on Below. As long as we haven't solved this part we can't really plan for the Underplex", Isaint replied to Iris.

"You others, has anyone a good idea how to smuggle guns and explosives through the Plex? We could of course pose as weapons merchants, but that would surely bring a lot of scrutiny down on us and I' rather avoid the extra attention.
A shielded smuggling compartment on a large drone would be my preferred solution. Does anyone have something like that at hand?"

#250

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-30-16/0232:49>

Halfpint nodded along, clearly there was going to be a clash of personalities during this job and a command chain would make things much smoother. He was eyes and ears, hunkered in a rigger cocoon mostly, so a military guy used to issuing commands worked well for him. Milspec men always wanting someone on point.
He forwarded his commcode as asked and requested broadcast rights to the team's AR feeds for drone imagery

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-30-16/0335:15>

Robyn accepts the halfer's code.  "Thank you, Halfpint.  And you may certainly share my feeds from my little friends.  Here is the code and feed from Sasha, who is currently outside the pub, and Misha, who is downstairs in the pub watching who comes and goes in general and up the stairs in particular.  Here is the code for Yuri, the Mule, but he is at my home right now, so nothing much to see there.  Please feel free to use them as needed,  I am not very knowledgeable about riggers, so what sort of authorization do I need to give you to allow you to deploy the drones as you need to?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-30-16/0619:29>

three marks and I can control the drone's you invite me to. I'll need copies of any Autosofts you have for them if I'm going to run them [spoiler]I was only asking to be able to send images from my recon drones to the team, not for access to your drones for control purposes]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-30-16/1019:37>

Robyn nods, "OK.  I am sending you the authorization for the marks for Sasha and Misha now and can do the same for Yuri when we get together.  In general, I would appreciate leaving them under my control until we get to Below, but after that, I would consider them your assets to use, at least Sasha and Misha.  After all, you are the expert here.  Say, what will you be travelling in when we go Below?  I am sure that either Yuri or the Johnson's Mule could carry you if you need to dive into one of the drones, sort of like me and going into VR.  Unless you have something of your own, I mean."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-30-16/1401:57>

I've got a modified tank-cycle with a cocoon, but thanks for the offer. I'll be in VR mostly myself. Thanks for the marks, I'll take good care of them!
He mentally accepted the marks as the popped up in his AR hud and immediately ran system diagnostics on them to see what their specs were.
large drones with shielded compartments are doable, but if the security is as good as they say, it'll be a lost cause without a distraction or tampering with the scanning process. They'll know to look, especially when a mismatched group appear out of the blue. What time were the distraction team making their hit?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-30-16/1423:06>

"If I understood our Johnson correctly, we'll be able to ask for this distraction - but that's a good point. I'll send the man a text about it."
Isaint hesitated for a moment:
"Tampering with the scanning process... Robyn, would you be able to do that ad hoc? Obviously we'll still have to stash our weapons, but making sure that the scanners couldn't pick them up would do a lot to add to our security."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-30-16/1444:07>

Robyn nods.  "I can certainly try that.  I just need to locate the icons and will try to edit their programs to ignore our equipment.  Just give me the word when.  I would imagine that their security is pretty good, so give me enough lead time to determine and get on the right grid and the closer I am the better."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-30-16/1728:50>

Iris was thingking fast, then, as the rest of the team got down to technical details. Possibilities flickered through her mind, examined, weighed, rejected or considered further, and a small smile spread to her lips. Her eyes lost some of that coldness that had filled them since the meet at Angel's and Robyn's reunion with Al, and it was plain to see that, like so many other 'runners, she was happiest when she was on the job.

After a few minutes, Iris looked for a lull in the conversation, then asked, "What about musicians?" The question was to Isaint, but she looked around the room after she asked it. "I know that Robyn here has some musical talent, as do I. Others on the team may also, though it isn't strictly necessary. Two musicians, budding composers perhaps who want to write a piece on the mysterious and near-mythical London Below?" Her smile grew. "The people down there have more of a fascination with tales than do those Above, and there is a great house that takes performance as its canon. It would give us an excuse to travel in force, as everyone knows that Below is dangerous. We," she gestured at Robyn and then at herself, "would have need of bodyguards and perhaps attendants. It would give us leave to travel, explore, and be seen without raising a fuss, and those who hunger for the fame of being in a published work might tell us things we otherwise would never hear."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-30-16/1845:30>

That could work. Especially if we can create a convincing backstory; Matrix pages, trids of songs and the like. Just enough to look legit if they ran a quick search.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-30-16/1856:17>

Iris grinned broadly. "That's the beauty of it. We don't have to." She nodded at Robyn. "She's legit, and my family and I have a history of patronage with the London Philharmonic."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-30-16/1926:02>

"Well, seems ta work fer the mimes, so why not us'n as well?"

The damned place was so upside down and topsy turvy, Al figured the more cockamamie the idea, the more likely it would work.

"But ol' Al plays the roadie. Reckon I'm a Thespian, not some limp-wrist crooner."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <01-30-16/1954:38>

"I was just thinking we could cut the power and send a spirit somewhere to make a mess. We sneak in during the chaos, or maybe even act as a 'response team' or something." Jackhammer offered, taking a big bite of soybird. He nodded in satisfaction at what he was pretty sure was a good idea. A tingling in his brain told him that was from a scene in a trid, but he ignored it and owned the idea.

"Otherwise, I can play a bodyguard pretty well, being one and all." He said with a mouthful of food. "Er, formerly anyway. But I'm not great at playin' pretend. Didn't list that in my skills." With that, he washed down the food with some extra beer and waited for the inevitable protest from Mrs. Better-Than-Thou.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-31-16/0120:58>

Iris smiled disarmingly at Jackhammer. "You won't have to pretend. Until we get to where we can actually effect the heist, you will be exactly what you appear to be. A bodyguard is something Robyn will need, both in her capacity as a decker and a blind musician touring the sights Below."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-31-16/0439:22>

Isaint nodded to Jackhammers suggestion: "Your idea has the benefit of simplicity - always a good basis for a plan. But a snatch and grab style attack should probably be plan B, as ideally no one will know that we took something in the first place. Less heat is always preferable."

At the suggestion with the musicians Isaint grinned beneath his mustache: "A tommy gun in a violin case. Not really new, but there is a reason it's a classic. Brass instruments to hide our equipment from MAD and Millimeter Wave scanners, so we'd only need a chemical seal for the ammo and the explosives.

I have to admit I'm not entirely comfortable with you both using your established identities for this heist. The chance that those would be burned is high.
A faked matrix profile of a hot and coming band touring the underground circle might be the safer bet.

If you give me an hours time I can convincingly learn to play any instrument you care to name - not good but passably to be a support."

#252

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <01-31-16/0900:28>

So that's plan A sorted. Providing it gets us past layers one and two of security, what about the next layer? We'd need a good reason for a bunch of musicians to be walking out with a massive barrel of magic.[nods at jackhammer] that sounds doable as a plan c. Backed up with small ied's we could create enough confusion to cover us getting in but then we'd have to fight our way out, which is not really great as far as plans go.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <01-31-16/1218:54>

Iris thought for a second. "We could have our established identities front our fake ones. Look at me. I look like the type to pay someone else to take my risks for me." Isaint's mention of the gun in the case brought the grin back to her face. "Nice touch,  that." She told him. "As for the object in question, I'm not certain how much we can plan for extracting it, unless we can fake a writ from The Atlantean Foundation or Draco to cover the recovery of an object of historical significance." She looked at Robyn and Halfpint questioningly. "You two would know better than I if that's possible. Can we do that?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-01-16/0018:31>

Robyn has been thinking of the plan basics and nods at Iris' question.  "That thought certainly has merit, Iris.  I could certainly talk to them and see if there is any interest.  Any idea on what I should not say to them?  And it will likely mean bringing my cello down as part of the cover.  I hope you guys do not mind listening to me play.  And I would appreciate it if we got the instrument back to the Overworld without any bullet holes in it."

Looking at ISaint, she says, "What sort of instrument do you want to play?  I can play from a number of styles.  You mentioned a metal instrument, so how about some sort of sax?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-01-16/0308:25>

"Considering the size of the weaponry we need to hide... probably an 18th century organ.
On a more serious note, I was thinking drums and percussion. Those provide the most space to hide gear within.

And you might want to bring a reserve instrument and not a priceless one - because we might have to leave all the gear we don't carry with us behind at a moments notice", replied Isaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-01-16/0706:26>

Robyn looks thoughtful for a moment, then nods and says, "OK.  How about this.  A couple of years ago I did some cover work for a late twentieth century group called The Devine Horsemen.  I did it for the P and C, um, Pub and Club, scene and used my Alyce Krait name.  I did twenty-two covers and they took this long to pick up some steam.  I was rather proud of them as the originals were not done with a cello in mind.  I had an acquaintance do the drum work in the background so your idea would work perfectly and I am sure that I can work Iris and anyone else in without any problem.  Here, let me bring up one of my favs.  Actually, it is doing quite bloody well at the moment.  This is a live recording I did at a club in Chelsea just after setting it all down on paper.  Oh, and the vocals are me and a bloke I hired for the gig, so do any of you men sing?"  Robyn pulls up a triode of a small stage in a crowded club.  She and two men walk onto the stage, one headed for a drum set and the other to a mic.  She sits down with a cello and they begin "The Tenderest Kiss" to an appreciative crowd.  She really gets into the playing and the singing, and her long ponytail sways in time to the music.  Those with musical skill will realize that this is quite a difficult piece for a cello and those without musical skill might still appreciate the harmony of the two singers.  The song has a good beat and a number of the clubbers are dancing near the stage.  She is really passing the bow across the strings and turning out music that is rarely heard from a cello.  She is clearly sweating when done with the song, her face wet and her clothes sticking to her.  When it is done, she closes the trid and says, "Will that do to give us a cover reason to go Below?  Alyce could be looking to take her music there or be looking for new inspiration."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-01-16/1107:18>

Jackhammer thinks about all of his very large gear and frowns. "I won't be able to take my bow I guess." He curses under his breath and keeps thinking. "Probably not my full armor either. I guess as long as I get some shuriken, a vest, and a Ruger, that's... workable. But I'd love to have a grenade or two, even just the smoky kind." He looked at Iris with a sarcastically empathetic face. "For emergencies."

Suddenly he catches himself. "Oh sorry Robyn. Nice trid. Great playing." He said, wincing slightly for fear that his lack of musical understanding would somehow be obvious. Cellos were for rich people to be all better than the common rabble, or so he'd always thought. But he sure wasn't going to say that now.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-01-16/1130:36>

Robyn smiles,  "Thank you Jackhammer.  It was difficult to play that sort of music on a cello, but I wanted to try it.  It worked as I am getting requests to do more live shows now.  The pace of the music is much faster than what I normally play, but the crowds in the pubs and clubs do not really seem to mind the small errors I make.  But I do thank you for liking it.  And I do not see why you have to leave your bow behind.  I am sure that we can disguise it among the rest of the gear, if we even need to disguise it at all.  And the armor as well.  After all, you are going along as a bodyguard, right?  That sort of implies that you need to be armed and armored, especially against what be a threat Below."

She turns back to Iris and ISaint.  "My only concern is that people down there know who I am.  I can always say that my stage name is Alyce Krait and that should be enough.  But do you think so?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-01-16/1149:42>

"Well, your tattoo is kind of a giveaway in Below - and if I understood you correctly, you'd forgo a considerable amount of protection if you did not present it.

It's a more pressing concern in the Underplex - if we want to appear as musicians I'd recommend you take a stage name there that isn't connected to you already and you cover up somehow, so you aren't recognized. Another reason not to play your probably famous instrument there in the official part of the city. Call yourself a tribute artist to yourself would be my suggestion. It's said that Charlie Chaplin once took part in a Charlie Chaplin lookalike contest and only made third place."
At an irritated look from the others he said.
"It's a famous slap stick comedian from 150 years ago. His best known role was his satirical portrait of Adolf Hitler... Never mind."
He turned to Robyn again:
"Anyway, don't forget we are here for a heist not to win the adoration of your fans - so we don't actually need your A-game as cellist. Getting away without notice is a lot harder if there are a lot of groupies around."

#254

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-01-16/1347:03>

Al's steak and ale pie arrived, and he set to. Emotional turmoil and boring planning sessions were the perfect combination to stimulate his appetite. A pint to the right of his plate, and a cigarette on the edge of an ashtray to the left and he was golden.

Apparently he was going to be a roadie for an alternative country cello ensemble covering his favorite act's work. Maybe he'd call his pal Mordecai back in Seattle for some tips. That guy had been on the road with some major bands back in the day. Of course, the mafia was probably tapping his phone in case Al called, but maybe Alyce could set something untraceable up.

Alyce.

All this stuff she was still carrying around from their short time together, it was either very wrong or very flattering. Well, since she was a woman maybe he'd have to just accept that it was both.

Glancing around the room between wolfish bites of pie, his gaze came to rest on the Princess, standing there with her...physique. And something else - she had some sort of magnetism it was impossible to deny. Maybe he should just switch gears and go for her. Everything would suddenly become so very simple.

Hah! Who was he kidding? He could never make that work.

He just wasn't that into blonds.

 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-01-16/2202:11>

Robyn touches the tattoo on her face.  "Yes.  The tattoo.  It was applied with magic.  I have no idea how it works, but it cannot be removed or covered.  When I was tortured, one of the things Melissa did to me was remove most of my skin.  It was pretty much like being flayed alive.  Anyway, she thought that she had removed my House tattoos, but they came in on the new skin when it grew back.  And I tried once to cover this one with makeup for a performance.  Utter failure.  Part of the blessing and curse part, I guess.  Anyway, the bottom line is that I cannot cover up the tattoo.  So it is better to just be me.  And my cello is nothing famous.  It is very well made and has a special link to me, but it is not some sort of famous instrument.  It can be replaced, although it has become a good friend.  Is this a problem?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-02-16/0115:02>

"You tell me. Personally, I'd shun getting my real identity dragged into something like this as the plague. If you can't use make up, maybe you could cover half your face with long hair, while performing in the Underplex. Not optimal, but it would fit as a style for cover band cellist.

But on the whole, do as you see fit. It's your life after all."

Kynos finally found time to take a huge bite out of his shepherds pie and helped it down with a gulp of Guinness.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-02-16/0137:01>

Robyn looks at ISaint.  "I thank you very much for your concern.  That goes a long way to validating why you are a good choice for leader.  The sad truth is that I do not have a third identity to fall back on and I would think it needs to be something that is verifiable.  Both Robyn Lysander and Alyce Krait have forty years of actual incomes and expenditures.  I would be willing to take up another ID if a good one was available.  I can even pass myself off reasonably well as not being blind.  To be honest, my other senses are unusually good and the blind disability is mainly just shtick now, but it is useful shtick.  So I could easily portray someone pretending to be me, but I still think that the ID would need to hold up to a certain level of scrutiny, right?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <02-02-16/0318:30>

Iris cocked her head as Robyn spoke, then opined, "What about a mask? An alternative musician, some sort of neo-gothic elven fusion artist looking for inspiration for her first hit?" She gestured at Robyn idly. "You fit the pointy-eared, underfed look so many of them have, and alt musicians are often tied into the extreme costumes and body mod scene. We could get a synthleather morion, paint some kind of Sinsearach tribal motif on it, and gum it to your face, with rivets on the outside to make it look like its a permanent fixture. Would that work?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-02-16/0335:14>

Robyn considers the new option put forward by Iris and likes it.  Nodding her hear, she says, "That should do nicely to disguise the tattoo, Iris.  Thank you.  I would still need a new ID.  There may be time enough to purchase one before going under.  The better the fake, the more detail is built into the background.  It could certainly do.  Say, didn't the Johnson say that he was prepared to issue IDs?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-02-16/0451:37>

"He did and I just received the details:
The distraction is a scheduled extraction that is not particularly important to our employer. A bit too casual for my taste - we are after all also his employees, so we'd be well advised not to be careless while dealing with him.
The distraction is therefore fixed to tomorrow evening.
Our ID's should arrive shortly.
Robyn and Halfpint, I'd ask you to fake some background facts about a small cover band from mainland Europe, doing the underground circus of London. Use some of the usual Dark Matrix resources to get the profile as fast as possible - and don't forget to send the expense to our Johnson. This short notice stuff is really annoying.

As for a band name - my suggestion would be Dead Men Walking - just because we probably are..."

#256

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-02-16/0753:51>

[Saturday July 4th, 2076; The Seventh House, Earl’s Court, London Below]

The Old One dragged his consciousness free from the false reality of the matrix rubbing at his temples and sighing ruefully after Aria’s tirade.  For all her age she still had the impetuousness of youth that her master didn’t feel the need to curb…

It would seem their pawns were developing an unhelpful desire to follow their own wishes rather than the vision and that had annoyed Aria greatly…she prided herself on her ability to win people round with her winsome charms and her pique at being thwarted would be amusing if it weren’t for the implications of the fraying threads in the Pattern. 

He had agents in place of course but somehow this felt like something he would have to intervene in himself and these days he disliked coming out of the shadows more and more…all in all it was irritating, and those around him drew back as the wisps of power escaped in his own venting of those frustrations…

***
_#05

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-02-16/0927:42>

Robyn nods.  "That I can do.  I think it would be more real if I have the names of band members and instruments played.  Do we pick up the bodyguards here or have they been with the band a while?  The more information I have the better I can make this.  Let me get started on the broad strokes and I can add the details in as we get the IDs and then go enter the data into the various hosts we might have played.  I would think small, relatively unknown clubs around Europe rather than any major venues?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-02-16/1201:12>

"You are the expert. Unknown clubs sounds good to me. Illegal underground ones are even better - less paper trails. But I don't think you'll have to mention the bodyguards. If you need, you can give me the profile of a random drummer that is unlikely to make an appearance elsewhere. Just give me a photo and I'll see that I'll take his face." Replied Isaint

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-02-16/1750:29>

Al was done with his pie, and he could think of three or four more interesting things than sitting here making plans, and at least a dozen things that would simply be more fun. But he held his piece. Man worked for a living.

It appeared they were definitely going with the musician charade. "Sooo, anyone needs secret compartments an' such in they instrument cases or whatever, that's somethin' can be done overnight while yer sortin' the IDs. Jist gimme whatcha got an' tell me whatcha need." He started imagining all sorts of ignorant requests for hiding places that would require extra-dimensional spaces, everyone having to bring every damned gun and toy they owned, and that got him to thinking about how long the work might take, and he asked, "We got a target jump-off time to work to with all this duly diligent plannin' an' prep'ration?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-03-16/0106:57>

Robyn smiles.  "I can do that and I...ahem...know a few illegal underground clubs in Greater Europe.  I can fit us in almost anywhere."  She looks around at the others.  "OK.  So far I have me, Iris, and ISaint in the band, Al as roadie, and Jackhammer as muscle.  That leaves Deckard and Halfpint.  What do you guys want to be?  I can see Halfpint as lighting, perhaps?  Give me an idea and I will get started."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <02-03-16/0108:50>

Deckard  was too busy shoving the shepard pie in his mouth and make it pass with the Guiness to yet partake in the music planning. Truth be told, he enjoyed listening to music, but playing an instrument was not really up his alley. It was as sound a plan as he could think of right now, so he had no issue agreeing to it.

With food still in between his cheeks, he weighed in: More like the Fabulous Troubadours...
In any case, I think the band should be focused on Iris as the centerpiece. Magic enhanced Dryad singer. We can't hide much of who we are on the Astral. Issue number one, 5 out of 7 of us are awaken. Iris, your initiate magic looks as powerful as it probably is, with those looping spells around you. Such power could do marvels if put to enhance your singer or playing. That would make you and by default the rest of the band a hot commodity. I could act as the Magic oriented bodyguard, spell protection and such, and Jack, well, it's pretty explicit. Halfpint can be the logistic manager and Al... manager? another player? you tell me.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-03-16/0738:36>

"Man, like I done said, I'm the damned roadie fer fuck's sake. Coolest cat inna crew. Hookin' up amps an' shit, helpin' myself to whatever groupies don't make it into the band's suite. Doin' what I want an' gittin' paid for it." He smiled at Deckard, half human, half hound dog. "Don't go tryin' ta rob ol' Al of his dream, baby."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-03-16/1015:38>

Robyn laughs.  "OK, I think we are set.  I like the idea of Iris being the face of our little group.  I will start working on the documents and should be almost done by the time we get the names and IDs from the Johnson.  This will at least give us a reason to be there and a good cover.  Nice idea, Iris."  Robyn goes quiet as she sits back and begins weaving her own kind of nagic on the matrix creating the identities and personas for the band and crew.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-03-16/1607:52>

Jackhammer chuckles, but it's not entirely clear which part of this he finds so amusing. He tosses the paperboard "bone" at a nearby trashcan, but fails to make the shot. With a grumble he stands up and walks over to the bin, picking up the trash and dropping it in. He shuffles back to his chair and sits down again with a *thud*. "So, I guess I'll go with Al and help him pack up." He said simply to nobody in particular. With a few flicks of his commlink he ordered another leg to go and looked around to see if it was time to leave yet. "Do we need to rent some rolling crates or something?" He wondered out loud, not really used to organizing such things.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-03-16/1733:06>

"That's where the mule drones come in. I trust Al, Half Pint and you can rig them up as our troop transporters.
Navigating rolling crates through below would be a pretty difficult task. Although I'm sure that Rick here could use levitation to sort out all our logistic problems, I think we should be mobile even without resorting to magic.

Robyn, you and Iris are taking care of Below for the moment as well as our cover Identities.

I'll ask around to get us some props for our tour.
We'll stay in contact and meet up in - let's say 12 hours. If someone of you has a nearby place we can use, this would be an ideal time to share. Otherwise we can meet down at Rory's workshops next to Big Yellow Self Storage next to the M1. There is a large unit there, of which I happen to have the keys. 

Speaking of witch: Rick, I need your help with a trick I want to learn. Do you have a minute or two?"


Isaint finished his own beer and resisted the urge to order a second. There was much to do after all.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-03-16/1801:43>

"Well alrighty then, my place is a ways outta town now, but I brought tools with. So reckon I'll jist mosey on over ta this Rory's place an' git ta work. See what there ta scrounge, what I gotta make some calls about. Like I said, anything ya wanna take down there concealed, ya bring it to me an' we'll sort ya out per the newly designated rock and roll cello theme. Jackhammer, ya said you's comin' with me?"

His gravel-pit voice was full of it's usual sardonic cheer, but for some reason he was mostly looking down at the table or up at the walls, awkwardly avoiding eye contact with anyone at all as he got up to leave.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-03-16/2331:36>

Robyn is apparently sitting slumped in her chair at the table, when in reality she is already in Berlin, Germany; her travel time was near instantaneous on the EVO global grid.  She flashes a bit of leg at the guardian as she shows her authorization to access the local grid and he grins at her and lets her jump across.  Once there she glides through the matrix streets, looking for the hosts that hide the grunge bars of the Berlin underground music scene.  She requests and gets a mark on the first host and slips inside, heading for the basement and the really loud music.  The lower club is crammed full of twenty-something German youth looking for any way to forget what life is like on the outside of the club.  Music, drugs, and sex are pretty much available for anyone with a few nuyen and the desire to get lost.  The club caters to the matrix crowd as well and Robyn's is not the only avatar in the place.  She looks around and moves behind a virtual column as the meat Robyn manipulates her software and the Robyn that emerges back into the crowd is dressed pretty much the same as everyone else.

Robyn dances through the crowd, shifting partners with almost every song.  Being a virtual person, her avatar can dance tirelessly as she seeks out the icons of the office, noting the lax matrix security in the process.  It is child's play to slip past he drugged-up security guard and go up the short set of stairs to the office.  She finds the files for past engagements to be completely unguarded and in almost no time she has edited the file to show that the cover band, Dead Men Walking, featuring Star Blazer, has played the club several times in the past several years.  Robyn stops to add a file to send some stickers and fliers by overnight delivery to the London postal box she uses for drop messages.  She slips back out of the office and her attention is caught by a virtual bulletin board on the wall, listing the locations of clubs just like this all over Europe.  The Robyn avatar smiles as she commits the map to memory then leaves the host, headed for the next club on her list.  In short order, Robyn places records of appearances of Dead Men Walking in the files of four low clubs and has four sets of accessories headed her way. 

Robyn slips back to the EVO grid and rushes to Paris, stopping in three smaller cities along the way, where she repeats the process in a way that shows the path of the band as it moves from Germany to France and then to England.  In her VR state she slips from location to location on the matrix, leaving a trail of band appearances for someone to follow if they are of a mind to.  She does not notice Al preparing to leave, or anything else, for that matter.  It is quite likely that those who have seen someone in the throes of VR would recognize her state.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-04-16/1656:45>

Isaint was on his way out, making sure everyone had gotten the suggested meeting point  since nobody had suggested a different place.

While moving back to his bike Isaint shot a quick list of things he wanted to bring - realizing that his usual arsenal would bring some troubles about. But there was nothing to it. He'd need to reduce his loadout.

The Ares Victory Wildhunt Jacket wasn't perfect, but would do for a high class environment.
Helmet and mask were not illegal, but couldn't be worn in the open, so that certainly counted to things best locked away.

The lined coat was at home everywhere.
The two tasers were completely legal and stayed.
Now, the Guardian and the Warhawk both needed licences - Isaint shot a short message to the Johnson to include licences for his persona for those two babies - even if they had to be transported in a locked box.

He sent a message to Alan, his Armorer of choice:
<<Hi Alan, I need on short notice two hermetically sealed Hard-Shell Briefcases - Rating 12.
Thanks in advance>>
Another message was sent to his well connected fence Darren Harrow:
<<Hi Darren, special order - I need a large, heavy drum kit - including a big bass drum and lot's of stainless steel parts to fool millimeter wave and x-ray scanners. Add some saxophones or whatever other brass instruments you can find fitting a hip young band. The heavier the better.


That would take care of the ammo being detected inside the mules.
The rifles where made to be folded and could be very compact - nothing he wanted to use in the Underplex, so it would stay inside the compartment.

The other stuff he kept in his backpack would also stay for the moment with Arthur - his mobile supply depot. Amedi would stay above ground at the ready.


The full body armor, the shotgun and the drone belonged together. They would have to stay firmly in Below, secured by his RP cloak.

That left the weapon focus. Best to stash that with the music gear as well.

Satisfied for the moment, he waited for Rick to catch up.

#259

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-05-16/0037:24>

Robyn has always liked Paris.  It is her favorite large city in the world to visit, just ahead of Hong Kong.  The Paris meat world is pure lights and excitement and its virtual space is several times that.  She glides along virtual streets past hosts of every kind, all beckoning her avatar to enter and spend time inside.  Eschewing these, she speeds down side streets, each one getting narrower.  Robyn finds the first host on her Paris list with no problem and soon has repeated the process of implanting information that the band had been here.  The second proves a bit more difficult as the club manager is hosting an orgy in his office.  The number of pairs and triples in one small room is surprising, but more surprising is the bouncer pointing to a sign indicating that anyone entering the room had to be naked, and that includes all avatars.  Robyn doffs her clothing, placing it in the bin provided, and enters the room.  She is immediately the center of attention of a rather interesting looking couple of Elves, who are all gothed up and looking to include her in their sexual experiments.  Soon she is groping and fondling both of the others with half of her attention while the rest is searching the files on the manager's desk.  Robyn finds what she is looking for and slips her information in before making an excuse to her new companions and leaving.  The temptation to stay and enjoy herself was very strong, but she has a mission to do and work comes before pleasure.  She notes the address in her personal file for a later visit and moves on to the third stop.

Finished in Paris, Robyn moves on toward the coast, stopping twice to plant evidence in small clubs.  Then comes her first real test.  The matrix security of the small clubs had been laughable, but now she is trying for the Chunnel Transit Authority.  Getting in was easy; the host offered marks to anyone who wanted one.  Finding the proper file was more difficult and took more time than she wanted, and they were better protected.  Still, the record of fourth-class tickets is not vital to the operation of the train system and she was able to edit the file to indicate seven additional purchases made by the manager of Dead Men Walking. 

Pulling out of the host, Robyn decided to do the London leg of the journey in the morning and jumped onto the EVO net to get back to the tavern, where she slowly came out of VR and looked around.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-05-16/0759:29>

...where she saw most of the group getting up and prepping to break camp. Al and Jackhammer were already near the door, but the smaller man stopped awkwardly as if he'd forgotten something, and her enhanced hearing heard her say to the huge ork - "Shit, Robyn came with me, better see if she...hey, big guy, ain't you her bodyguard fer this here shindig?" At which point he called out to her, "You still need a ride somewhere?" He was going for indifferent nonchalance, but his sandpaper voice cracked uncharacteristically, and he fooled no one who was paying any attention.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-05-16/1034:28>

Robyn looks around with the characteristic blankness of someone who has just come out of VR then says, "I need to go home to pack some things.  I am not sure that there is enough room in your car for Al and me and Jackhammer, so I can take a cab.  Al, it was really good to see you again.  I hope that we can talk later?"  She stands up and walks to the door, the Hell Hound at her left side.  "I will be at the rendezvous site in a few hours."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-08-16/1034:13>

Jackhammer nodded at her response and tried to use physical presence to keep Al moving--a trick he'd had to use a lot as a bodyguard. Naturally he'd have preferred to ride with her, but he couldn't think of a really smooth way to make that happen, especially since she was presumably going back to her place and Jackhammer didn't have any business there; at least, none related to the run. But he did have business getting things ready for the run, and if he was going to keep this girl alive long enough to see what she was doing later, and more importantly who she was or wasn't doing it with, then he'd need to make sure everything was perfectly ready. He'd never smuggled weapons before, but Al seemed like the kind of guy who had, so he'd have to make sure the little guy didn't get drunk or distracted. No mistakes this time. Not like the last run. Not like his first trip Below. Never again. This one would be clean.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <02-08-16/1619:04>

Halfpint stood to let the others out from behind the table, shimmying across the bench and hitting the floor with a light thud, head at the same height as the table.
The overall plan seemed a bit clearer, but was still more like clear-as-mud than gin-clear at this point.
He knew wheeling several combat drones specced like tanks through the middle of the plex wasn't going to end well and was itching to sit down with the schematics to figure out routes in and out, but knew that the extraction plan was not even really in place yet and tried to calm his mind of the usual worries.
It'd get worked out in time.
He hoped.
He'd got a long night ahead of him in Vr anyways, scoping out his edit suite's deeper functions to massage life into the cover story for the band.
That'd keep him occupied for a while.
[spoiler]sorry for the late reply guys, been getting lots of malware warnings when trying to load up the forums. seems to have resolved now so back on it!

Rolls for creation of band related data here:
computer (edit) rolls for creating vids/posts etc (http://orokos.com/roll/371021): 5#14d6t5 6 3 4 4 4
let me know if you need more.[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-08-16/1633:28>

Al just shrugged at Alyce. "Yeah, sure, few hours." He didn't know if he was disappointed or relieved she'd decided to get a cab, but it was neither here nor there. They needed to keep things tight on this gig, and he figured they both needed some time to get their heads straight.

So he bumped down the stairs with Jackhammer and out into the street. It was still raining, but if he stood at the correct angle he could almost use the huge ork as an umbrella.

"Reckon I'm the Beamer here." The car in front of him had left, which was fortunate since he'd otherwise have been able to extricate himself from the spot he'd squeezed into earlier. "Done cleaned out the front fer ya."

Once they were in the car, Al lit a cigarette instead of starting the engine.

"Listen, amigo. Ain't seen ya since that last gig, an' I don't trust any comms with what I wanna tell ya. Hell, I shouldn't tell anyone, but you've got a right ta know. I done made a few enquiries, some same day as we split, a few later on. Now I ain't got no proof, but I wanna tell ya the circumstantials is stackin' up high in favor o' that whole family bein' alive an' well. Figure my theory about a switcheroo was right on. An' o' course if word was ta git out, well, that'd be all she wrote. That's it - ain't much in the tellin' but thought you'd wanna know."

Then the car started up with the low purr of a perfectly tuned engine, and the wipers started working at the sheets of water on the windshield.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-08-16/1634:26>

Robyn and her Hell Hound companion leave the private room, following Al and Jackhammer.  On her way out, she collects up her drones from their overwatch stations and repositions them to cover her movement.  She smiles broadly at the several patrons in the main room who move far aside to give her plenty of room as she heads for the exit.  Once outside, she stands in the rain, having already announced to the others that her umbrella has had an epic fail.  Still, she is used to the London rain and she has things to think about now that she is out of the room.  She has already fixed the early trail for The Dead Men Walking tour and will do the London stops from home.  Iris is procuring the special mask for Robyn, so she does not have to worry about that.  All that is really left is to check on her meds load out and get things packed and moved over to the meeting place.
 
Looking about, she does not see a cab near by, or even a cab stand.  She could summon one, but feels more like a walk.  Al Guthrie.  Al Guthrie.  A name and a face she has never stopped hoping to see again.  She goes over his last words to her and reviews them in a calmer light.  Perhaps she has once again misunderstood what he has meant.  She shakes her head as she considers that is very like her when it comes to Al Guthrie.  Setting Sasha to follow her, she puts Misha away and slowly begins to walk down the street.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <02-08-16/1717:07>

Halfpint follows the rest of the group downstairs and out into the cold, pulling his smart coat tight around his shoulders to ward the rain off.
Robyn seemed particularly reticent to the weather, heading down the road with no umbrella and the rain lashing at her hair.
Halfpint jogged to the van, fired it up and pulled up alongside, dropping the window to offer her a lift.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-08-16/2303:23>

Robyn senses the van pulling up alongside her even before the feed from Sasha tells her about it.  She hears a window lower and then Halfpint is asking her if she wants a lift.  She turns to the halfer and says, "Thank you, Halfpint.  I would indeed like a ride.  As long as you are sure it is not out of your way and you can fit Al in there.  If not it should only be a few blocks to get to a street with a cab stand."

After being assured that the van has the room, she opens the door to let Al in and commands the Hell Hound to sit where Halfping indicates is good before sitting in the passenger seat.  "This is very kind of you.  How fortunate for both of us, as well.  I have laid a trail of band appearances from Berlin to Paris to the Channel already.  I am sending you a list of the places we have been to so you can flesh out the history.  I still have the London spots to set up yet, but that can be done tonight.  I was going to give the final list to everyone, along with a brief para on each place so they can answer questions if asked.  What additional information do you need from me to help with your role as manager?"

The van pulls up to the address Robyn gave Halfpint and he rigger sees it is the address of a book shop with "ROBYN'S" in gilt letters above the door.  Before getting out, Robyn turns and says, "Do you want to come up?  I need to change into different clothes and pack a few things.  My field stuff is pretty much packed and can be put in the van.  I was going to hire a van, but if you have the time and space..........."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <02-08-16/2344:29>

Deckard always packed light. Most of his gear always fitted in his small duffel bag and as long as he carried his dad's revolver, he was happy with just improvising on site. That also meant he relied a lot on his teammates, but as long as he could take care of his side of the job, that was usually enough. That meant his spells and talent, but also his ability of communioning with ghost spirits and elementals.

It would be a good idea to try bonding an elemental. He had the time for it but was concerned about recovering fast enough from the demanding task.

Then he heard ISaint. Learning a trick? from him?
Yeah i've got a minute or two before I go deal with the Devil. I thought bringing some extra extra mystic powers could be useful. But tell, me, how can I help? Deckard said as he walked out with ISaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <02-09-16/0302:22>

yeah, van's empty now so might as well load up whilst we've got the space to work with.
The bookshop looked homely, better than most of the runner's digs he'd seen at any rate. Pulling up in the loading bay, he killed the engine and followed robyn up

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-09-16/0328:11>

"Yeah, I was meaning to find a reliable mage - really lucky for me to run into you. You see, I came recently into possession of a very interesting focus." Isaint pulled a thin metal cord from around his neck. At it's end dangled a blue feather encased in some kind of yellowish crystal.
"It's a spellfocus for adepts like me. It allows me to levitate stuff - myself included. I was able to emulate the necessary skill through another of my talents, but that is only a temporary solution.
I need you to show me how to manipulate mana precise enough on my own. I mean, you are the best telekinet I know.

Oh, by the way, how is Cora? I thought you had to promise her after last time not to go into the Dark again."
Just as he had spoken the last sentence Isaint realized that he must have put his foot down to the ankle in his mouth.
"Rick, I..."

#260

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-09-16/1019:03>

Robyn directs Halfpint to the alleyway behind the store that leads to the loading bay door and sends a text to have someone open the door for them.  The door slide up on its rails as the van pulls up and Robyn guides the rigger into the shop.  He sees bookshelves full of real, bound books and people wandering and some even sitting in some of the overstuffed leather chairs scattered about.  A woman is waiting to meet her and is introduced as the shop manager, Sarah.  Sarah welcomes Halfpint and scolds Al fro not keeping his mistress dry.  The Hell Hound looks at her and dips his head as if to say he is sorry.  Robyn points off and makes some strange clicking noises and Al walks over to a huge throw pillow near a glassed in room.  She then leads the way through the shop where the smell of leather combines with cigar smoke and quiet customers look through the shelves.  She walks past a wrought iron circular stairway leading up and down to a lift, Sarah walking with her and talking numbers.  Robyn tells her that she will be gone for a few days and the woman nods as she pushes the button for the lift and bids both of them farewell.

Once in the lift, Robyn says, "This should not take long.  I have already messaged Stephanie and some things should already be packed and ready."

The lift door opens to a short hallway that leads to a door that is already open and waiting.  As the two enter the room beyond the door, a woman approaches.  Robyn shrugs out of the long-tailed jacket and hands it to the woman who she introduces as Stephanie.  Stephanie places the jacket over a chair as Robyn walks through to her bedroom chattering the entire time with her maid about what is packed to go.  Before she disappears into the room, she turns to the halfer.  "Please make yourself at home, Halfpint."  The maid soon returns carrying the wet clothes and asks Halfpint if she can get him anything to drink.  A few minutes later Robyn appears, dressed in a set of cargo pants and a shirt. She nods to Halfpint and says, "Almost done.  Just have to pack a few things and I will be ready to go.  Thank you for waiting."  She disappears again, returning in a minute with a suitcase and a cello case.

At the door to the apartment, Robyn turns and gives cheek busses to the other woman before saying something in French, to which Stephanie responds with a slight blush and a smile.  Turning back to the door, Robyn leads Halfpint back to the lift and down, heading through the shop to the loading bay, collecting Al along the way.  Two young men have moved a large Mule drone into position at the bay and are just about finished loading several cases onto it.  Robyn stops and talks to the men by name, introducing them to her companion.  She turns to Halfpint, saying, "Halfpint, meet Igor.  He is my longtime friend and companion.  And here are the marks you need to control him."  A non-verbal command is given and Igor rises and steps into the waiting van, causing it to settle just a bit.  The young men assist Halfpint in loading Robyn's last cases and watch as the rigger maneuvers the drone to just where he wants it.  Robyn turns to Sarah, who has made a quiet appearance.  The two talk shop for a minute then Sarah turns to kneel close to Al so as to bring her eyes to his level.  "And you make sure she comes back, or no more of these for you."  She holds out a hand and offers the dog a large Meaty Stick, which Al ignores while looking up at Robyn.  She laughs and gives Al permission to take the snack, "You are spoiling him.  I need a fierce guardian, not a puppy."

"Yeah, as if that will happen."  The two stand and embrace before Robyn turns to Halfpint and walks over to climb into the van with Al as the bay door slides down.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-09-16/1740:21>

Relieved to see that Robyn got a ride after all, real-Al pulled the sports sedan deftly into the West End traffic flow. He didn't know this person Rory or the man's workshops, but his mapsoft did and in an instant the route was displayed faintly across his windshield.

"So I'll be honest, mi betusked amigo,was a little surprised ta see ya tonight. Ya din't seem too pleased with this line o' work when last we spoke. I'll confess it took ol' Al some gittin' accustomed to as well, but it has been growin' on me. Leaves me lots of leisure time ta practice my magic, watch anime, an' work on cars. Plus I noticed early on the just about ever' single one o' the women in this here biz is smokin' hot. Case in point this job here. And the last one - though all either went missin' or crazy. So whatcha been up to the past month?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-09-16/1820:02>

Jackhammer sat in the car and frowned silently. Al seemed to think that the family was still alive. It was an odd thought. But then, Al could be crazy or lying. Evidence seemed to favor that pretty heavily. But if it was true, that probably meant they were safe. He'd have to ask Isaint about that later, but only when they were sure to be alone. And with things being the way they were, that would have to be a very special set of circumstances.

Before he could think of anything to really say, or decide if he wanted to talk at all, Al continued on. When he mentioned women, Jackhammer chuckled slightly. "Heh, yeah. We had some of that in the fashion industry, but not that I really got to work closely with. Well... he trailed off as he thought of some of the interesting arrangements that had come from his old job. Then he remembered that he didn't have that job anymore. Things were pretty heavy lately, it seemed. It was hard to believe he was officially unemployed, but then again, he was never exactly "officially" employed either, given the circumstance.

He tried to focus on the here & now, and continued his response. "Money's good. This stuff is going to happen with or without me, so I figure I might as well get in on it." He lied. He didn't really want anyone to know that he wasn't sold on the whole bit except for keeping Robyn out of trouble. Maybe he had a soft spot for blind girls or something, or maybe she reminded him of an old crush, or maybe he just needed an excuse to go back below and finish unfinished business, but whatever the case, he felt the need to watch this girl's back. And given the circumstances, he didn't feel like sharing all that with Al.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <02-10-16/1629:19>

Deckard's jaws clenched at the mention of his wife. It had been two month since she passed away, but it still hurt to talk about her. He gave ISaint a forced smile, the man couldn't have know, and it was genuine and nice of him to ask. Maybe that was what friends were.

He continued ISaint's sentence: ... couldn't have known. But I praise your intuition on this matter.  She... she got very sick. Some sort of virus, I don't even know exactly what it was. She passed away two months ago. Deckard paused for a second, trying to get a hold of his bursting emotions.
I'm sure I don't have to tell you what is it to lose loved ones. You've had your own share, right?
He took a deep breath.
All the hospitalization care put me in a tight financial spot, had to borrow some money to some shady individuals. So I couldn't refuse high paid job like this one. Plus, you know me, I kind of like the thrill of danger. Wasn't expected you to see you at the meet. But I'm glad. It's good to have people you already trust when forming a new team.

He brought the attention and discussion back to less personal matter as he held carefully the medallion hanging on ISaint's neck.
Nice stuff you got there. Though after seeing Iris' wand, it makes us look like amateur magician. He too reached under his cozy turtle neck and pulled out what first appeared as dogtags that most military personal wore. Upon closer inspection though, the tags were engraved with some strange runes themselves covered by some glossy blue liquids that seemed to move through the runes as the necklace was moved. That's my Focus.  Helps channeling the Mana around.
SpellFocus for adept... that's new, pretty weird.... unexpectable... I like it.
So how exactly can I help? You want me to teach you how to be a magician? you know my views on Magic are rather chaotic.... yeah, teaching spellcasting to an physical adept, sounds pretty chaotic to me...

Don't know how this will span out, but I want to try binding a elemental for our little trip down Below, it may be quite useful. That's gonna tell me quite a while. What do you think?
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-10-16/1720:26>

"Cryin' out loud, amigo, don't know if that's pragmatic, existential, or jist plain nihilistic."

They drove in silence through the rain, then, until the cluster of storage spaces hove into view, and then they pulled into the workspace Isaint had directed them to as a rally point. It looked like they were the first one's there. Al used the code they'd been given, sent the door up, and parked inside. As the two runners emerged from the car, Al spoke as though their conversation had never paused. "Fashion industry, huh? You some kinda male model or somethin'?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-10-16/1730:33>

Isaint grimly nodded at Rick's words: "Yes I do. You do have my sincerest condolences. It's always the blow you didn't see coming."
Recognizing the topic change, he continued: "Mana levels are rising steadily or so I am told. We haven't nearly reached the limit of what is possible.
And I agree: Having someone at your back you can trust will make this a lot easier. On that account I'll vouch for Al Guthrie. He might seem a bit funny, but he is a genuine good guy. Expect him to surprise you.

About that summoning: If you can do it within 16 hours it's a good idea. You can use the storage unit until the others arrive.
As for magic: All I need are some pointers - just the basics how to form mana, collect and release it. I'm sure it won't take longer than a few hours with a teacher like you."

[spoiler]
Deckard just needs one hit on an instruction test to reduce Isaints learning time from 1 day to 0 days
A simple CHA -1 test will do.

[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-10-16/2312:07>

Jackhammer actually laughed out loud, genuinely, for the first time since he'd jogged over to the math building to provide ranged support. It was a strange feeling, foreign, like somebody else using his voice. He rested his arm on the car, shifting it on its shocks slightly, and let go a heavy sigh. "No, not--" He waved his hand dismissively. "I'm not a model. I'm a bodyguard." He cocked his head slightly as he began to step away from the vehicle. "Was a bodyguard. I worked for Madezyne, an exotic armored clothing designer. One of her lines was picked up by a big corp a few years back, and she's been riding that train ever since. She doesn't get much actual business anymore, but her runway productions always draw enough of a crowd. I think she's crazy, but she paid well enough. At least she used to, back before she switched most of her security to elves." Jackhammer spat.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-10-16/2358:09>

Robyn rides comfortably with the rigger for the trip to the meet.  Her left hand idly scratches the head of the huge hound lying near the center console.  Her thoughts are mostly on how she is going to slip the band's info into the London clubs, but a part is on Al Guthrie.  Shaking her head, she pushes that issue to a new folder in her compartmentalized brain that she labels "Talk To Al Soon" and concentrates on the mission requirements.  Before too long, Halfpint has the van pulling up to the building and he is entering the code to raise the large garage door.  Robyn sees that they are not the first to arrive and recognizes Al's auto. 

The two jump out of the van, followed by the Hell Hound, and go open the rear doors.  Robyn watches as the halfer expertly maneuvers Igor out of the van and over to one side before going in and getting her cello case and suitcase.  Stepping out, she follows Halfpint and Igor  and stows her cases when the drone stops.  Her sensors have already determined where Al and Jackhammer are standing and watching and she goes over to them, snagging a chair and leaning back in it.  "Hey.  Glad to see we're not last.  I had a short comm from Iris.  She is making connections for us Below and will be with us in a few hours if all goes well. I told her to have her pipes warmed up as she is now Star Blazer, our lead singer.  Any changes in the plan yet?  I have us playing a number of grunge clubs between Berlin and here over the past few months.  I will set up a post for everyone detailing where we've played and some of the people we have met.  Of course, with a band like ours, any lapses can be explained by drugs or booze." 

Robyn pulls a pack of Lucky Strikes and a Zippo from a pocket of her gear and removes a cigarette, lighting it and taking a few drags.  She slides the pack to the others and motions to it.  "Help yourself if you smoke."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <02-11-16/0216:52>

Al? you're not talking about blind girl's HellHound, right? Just joking. Yeah, the old man looks like he's been through a lot. And that means experience, which is key for survival in our field. I'll head home for a bit, that's where my lodge is, I'll need it to make the initial bonding. I'll rest a bit then will come to that storage place and we'll see about that Spellcasting thing.
So you want me to teach you how channel the Mana to cast a spell that has its formulae held inside your focus... interesting... I can show you, kind of like my apprentice... A big grin showed on his face... you're gonna have to call me Master.

Deckard kept his big smile, pleased with his opportunist thinking.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-11-16/0926:31>

When the Bulldog pulled in Al was just finishing on his commlink, finalizing express deliveries for various resins and liquid polymers he'd need to chemically seal any compartments he might be making. Between what he'd brought and what he'd seen around the space they were in, everything else they'd need was here.

He took a cigarette shyly when offered one, holding it out for a light. Waited a polite minute or so, then stood. "Alrighty, I need you fer a tick," he said, indicating Alyce with a pointed finger. "Excuse us, gentlemen. Jist be a few minutes."

Then he strode over to his car, not looking back until he'd opened up the passenger door. "He can stay out here," he said regarding her beast as he helped her in. He slammed her door then walked around and dropped himself into the driver's seat.

He spoke to the windshield. "Well ya done had yer say, an' I reckon I heard it. I ain't got no skill fer that kinda talk, an' if I did there'd be a helluva lot ta spit out. Been thinkin' of all the things I wanna say fer the last hour, an' some of it fer the past eight years. Hunnerds o' things ta say. But when I put it all together an' boil 'er down, it comes ta this."

He turned and addressed her directly. There was a surety in the voice that had always been full of indecision back when she'd known him. "Reckon the only way we know each other was a few off the deep-end weeks in one o' the darkest backwaters o' Southeast Asia. Eight years ago. That ain't no normal way ta git ta know someone. But seems to've left an impression on ya. It sure as hell did on me. But that's a lotta time an' space an' change ta jist pick up where we left off." He licked his lips, confidence now shifting to nervousness. "So I'm wonderin' what yer doin' fer dinner the first night after we do this job. We's workin' now, but I reckon I'd like ta take ya out after. Dinner, show, all o' that. Not old friends catchin' up. A date. Like two people do - or used ta do - when they's innerested in each other an' wanna find out more. Reckon I'd like ta come callin' on ya, Alyce Krait. Like ta court ya proper. If you're amenable ta that, we can settle it right now an' git our minds back on stayin' alive. Cuz I don't need ta tell ya things git awful nasty down where we's goin', House o' Grayskull face tat or not."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-11-16/0951:44>

Robyn lets Al take her arm and escort her to the car.  She makes a motion with her hand when the Hell Hound raise its head in interest and the huge beast goes back to a resting position.  Robyn climbs into the car and waits for Al to get in and start talking.  Halfway through his words, she puts her head against the back of the seat and starts crying.  She makes no move to wipe the tears away as she listens to him.  When he is finished she keeps her face pointed at the windshield.  "I would like that, Al.  A lot."  She reaches out a hand to touch his arm.  "I would like to know one thing, though.  Why?  Why did you not call me?  Ever.  Eight years, Al.  I have no idea how long you have been in London, but still you did not call.  I do not understand."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-11-16/1002:15>

Isaint showed him a loopsided grin. "I'll call you master, allright. Master-Blaster and Lord oft the noisy Winds shall be your official title..."


It took Isaint only an hour and a half to really learn the trick. Deckard wasn't a trained teacher, but he was patient and concentrated in bis attempt, so it worked out in the end.

When Isaint arrived at the storage, he cassually carried a large box full oft instruments with one hand, albeit quite slowly.

#262

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-11-16/1831:03>

"Geez Louise, woman, ya think that might be one o' the hunnerd things we don't have time ta git into right now? They ain't no simple answer ta that." But his bluster masked a deep regret slicing through his heart. He'd always missed her, but he'd assumed that she'd eventually just forget about him. The thought of her missing him the way he had her for eight long years, and that it was on him...there it was, just one more reason this would never work.

"Listen, whatever the what for, I'm sorry. That ain't much, but ain't none o' my reasons good enough to make it okay, so fer now that's what I got. I reckon it's a helluva lot ta fergive, an' never o' thought ya would, 'cept fer the things ya said earlier."

She didn't move, and he sensed her dissatisfaction with his non-answer.

"I ain't the same guy ya knew back then. Some things, maybe ain't no atonin' for."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-11-16/1938:35>

Alyce keeps her face straight ahead and talks softly, tears flowing unchecked down her cheeks.  "We are professionals, Al.  We can keep a lid on this for the expedition, just like we did in Cambodia.  And, Al, we all change.  Neither of is the same person we were eight years ago.  But there is part of me that has never changed and will never change.  I have never stopped loving you.  It is like I said back in Cambodia; I told you then that I had already made up my mind that I wanted to live the rest of our lives together.  I was only waiting for you to get to that point, too.  It is still that way.  I loved you then.  I still love you.  I will always love you, no matter what you do or how far you run from me.  And if you do not stay when this is done, then at least you can have that bit of knowledge to keep you warm at night.  There is a person in this world that loves you more than life itself.  I hope that you at least remember that, wherever you are."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-11-16/1946:45>

"Shee-it woman, this is rapidly descendin' into some rank melodrama. I done said I wanted ta court ya jist as soon as this gig wraps. What's all this about leavin' again? Listen, if'n you can still feel that way, then I'd be a fool not ta take it, an' I ain't makin' that mistake again. An' I might as well tell ya now that I done felt the same in Cambodia, and have ever since. Did ya even hear me when I said there ain't been no one since then? So we go out, we see what happens once we knows each other off the job, amidst civilization, an' in our new skins. That's as straight a shot as I can offer. Now, can we call time on all this woman talk an' git ta work?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-12-16/0021:12>

Robyn nods.  "Yes, Al.  We can certainly call this discussion ended for now.  Say, I still need to set the London gigs for the band.  May I use this seat to crash on?  It is far more comfortable than those at the table out there."

Robyn settles back into the seat and fades off into VR, sliding to the local London grid and searching out the club hosts on her list.  It was a bit funny, but the clubs in London were easier than the ones in either Paris or Berlin.  She slips the edited files in at all three hosts and gets out without any difficulty.  She takes a quick trip around the city before heading back to the car and slipping carefully out of VR and back to the somewhat drearier meat world.

When she comes to, she climbs from the car and notices that ISaint has arrived with some instruments.  She goes to the table and sits down to work on her packet for the others.  She carefully details the fourteen club dates between Berlin and London as well as the Chunnel ride.  Names of the club managers, bartenders, and some of the waitresses are provided as well as the physical descriptions of the women.  She includes some of the other bands that were playing at the same time and details the time when one of the Paris clubs was raided while they were there.  Once everything is in order she packages it up and sends it to everyone's commlink.  >>Team.  The attached file is a list of all the clubs we played at and when for the past few months.  It starts in Berlin and ends here in London five days ago.  Names, dates, other bands, club managers and other people.  It is in case we get asked questions, but I do think that it is all too possible to cover an error by claiming drugs or alcohol, or just plain confusion.  No one really pays much attention to bands like us, but it does add some color.  Please let me know if there are any questions or issues with the information provided.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <02-12-16/0207:01>

Deckard was pretty impressed with ISaint's ability to understand the connection of the spell with the Mana sphere, even more so quickly. He never thought of himself as a mentor, heck, school had definitely not been much of his liking when he was a kid or teenager. Maybe because he never had teachers as awesome as he was... who was he fooling? probably because he had teachers as terrible as he was...

In any case, having someone else who could lift things with his mind was definitely a plus.
Everyone but Iris was here. There was definitely something weird going on between Al and Robyn, and the two going for a talk in Al's car was worrysome. HE knew first hand emotion between team members was dangerous in a run.  His wife hated when Deckard was taking unnecessary risks, which he did quite often. And he hated to feel powerless when she was in the Matrix fighting some computer program. Ideal condition to make bad judgement. But ISaint had vouched for the older man, he wished he could have done so too with the blind decker emotional stability.

So, can anyone tell me a bit more about the Underplex? I've heard plenty of story on the Below, but the plex, not so much outside of the name.


#27

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-12-16/0347:09>

Isaint had been sorting his gear - putting all ammunition inside his new hard shell cases and cleaning all weapons carefully until the chem-sniffer of his drone didn't detect any suspicious amounts of nitrates anymore. It was tedious and time consuming work, while over in the other corner Jackhammer and Al worked on modifying the mule drone that had been delivered.
Unpacked brass instruments lay everywhere, including a lot more drums than one person could possibly need.

Isaint was just about finished with his arsenal - only his latest purchase a modified Ruger Super Warhawk with extended barrel, nicknamed the "Ultra Warhawk" remained.
He was just polishing the insides for the tenth time when Deckard arrived. Glad for the distraction he replied:
"Only visited it once and just for an hour or so. It's a large underground mall. Chock full of ways to get rid of your hard earned money. Strong security - wearing orange and brown uniforms. I've heard there's also a special division down there to deal with "difficult individuals".
Transport is organized by open sided automated trains. Just hop on and off where you need.
The whole thing is huge: It's stretching over the whole of Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus, Piccadilly, Tottemham Court Road, Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross and Covent Garden. Also a giant parking garage under Hyde Park.

Never tried to smuggle anything in there before and I have no idea where the accesses to Below are. It sure would be helpful if Iris would report back soon on that account."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-12-16/0856:35>

Al left her in the car and his emotions in there as well.

There was a hell of a lot to do. They started refitting the drone, but soon enough there was a stack of weapons people wanted concealed among the intruments, including his own shotgun, and he set to work on that, starting with measurements, then there was cutting and remolding, and once his resins arrived, sealing. He was a quick worker, but it was not quick work, and it would take the best part of the night to get it all done, even with other hands helping.

As he worked, the ashtray steadily filled, as did the big plastic bin used for beer empties. Spent, wasted husks of ephemeral ameliorations, piling up.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <02-12-16/1825:43>

Halfpint had just about got over the shock of Robyn's nearly naked form back at the bookshop and had really wished his gentlemanly self hadn't averted his gaze as quickly as he did.
Still, he'd joined in with the others, making his technical skills useful and assisting with the engineering stuff as soon as the data trail had been left in VR

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-14-16/1258:02>

Isaint was interrupted in his talk by a message from their guide. Frowning he forwarded it to the rest of the team:
<<Hello Isaint, be ready to move the team to the entrance described in the attached file. Things down here are a bit tricky at the moment, but nothing I can't handle. Move with utmost caution - I am paving the way as I write, but things are a bit unstable here. I'll catch up to you all as soon as I can. In the meantime I'll have to stay offline to keep my advantage.
Iris>>

"Seems like we at least can get access in time. But keep your guns accessible as well as your armor.

Robyn, you are also familiar with Below, what do you make of this route Iris has sketched for us? Do you know who's territories we are crossing there?"

#264

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-14-16/1743:38>

Robyn considers the route carefully.  "There is no indication as to what sort of difficulties Iris is running into.  I wish she had not been quite so bloody cryptic.  Hmmm.  Given this route we will cross several House territories.  That could be useful if we want to lay more groundwork for the band cover story.  None of these Houses is particularly hostile to Overworlders or to each other, but Below politics are pretty flexible.  To be honest, the most direct route to the Underplex from Below is via Nightside Market, which we can access from a couple of places in the LCZ.  I have good contacts in the 'Zone and can arrange for an escort if you think it would be necessary."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-15-16/0859:18>

"The LCZ? Well, if you trust your contacts this will have to be good enough for all of us. Just try not to advertise our presence. Even if our cover would crave publicity, we don't actually. The less people know, the better.

Still, my question stands: Whose territory do we have to cross, given your best estimate? I'm asking especially about the house of flowers. Even if they don't recognize us, they might try to pull the same stunt as last time to abduct one of our number for their depravities. And this time I won't let them get away with just a narco-grenade to the face."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-15-16/0914:57>

Busily making precision cuts in their various instrument cases, Al had been content to listen to the planning with half an ear, if that. But he tossed an "Amen ta that," across the room after Isaint's comment.

"Wouldn't mind an intimate tete-a-tete with one or two o' the freaks either, see if we can suss what they done with ol' Solo."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-15-16/1104:46>

Robyn thinks of the route that Iris has marked and then alternate one.  She pulls up an overlay of the area and mentally creates a 3D image in front of everyone at the table.  She spends a few minutes filling out the image with the basics of the design and her concept.  "Sorry about the image accuracy and I hope everyone can see it as I picture it.  I could refine it better with more time, but I think that the basics come across just fine."  She mentally points and highlights a route through her map.  "Just across the Thames on London Bridge, or Old LB, is the Gothicum.  Lots of tourists pass through here and security is relatively light most days.  They rarely do more than a perfunctory check unless they suspect something is amiss.  Southwark Cathedral lies just here, in the Gothicum.  This is where the Mechanica is based.  They act as a sort of official unofficial link to London Below for trade purposes.  They bring things and people up to the Overworld and take things and people Below.  I am in pretty tight with the Mechanica and can count several of their higher ups as friends.  It would be easy to just walk across the Old LB into this part of the LCZ and mingle as tourists before fading away with a Mechanica escort for an entrance to Below."

Robyn highlights a path through her map and stops when it reaches Black Prince Road.  "There is an entrance to Below right here that will take us straight to Nightside Market.  And now give me a couple of minutes to bring the market up in my mind."  The 3D map in front of the team shifts for several minutes, finally coalescing into a different map.  "This is Nightside Market.  It is actually larger than the Underplex and has more to offer.  But it is quite dangerous to those that do not obey the rules.  This entrance is on the third of five levels and the stuff for sale here is mostly tech stuff.  I can personally tell you that if you are looking for anything tech, you can probably find it here.  We can go straight through all the way on Level 3 without catching toomuch attention.  Lots of tourists here and we could fit right in.  Just for information purposes, Levels 1 and 2 are below and Levels 4 and 5 above.  Level 2 has some very skilled body chop shops.  I can make introductions if anyone is interested in getting an implant later.  Mostly Alpha ware grade, but occasionally they can get better if the demand is there.  One of the best geneware docs I know is there, too.  Level 1 is the fleshies.  You can buy or use anyone down there for the right price.  Level 4 is mojo land and Level 5 is where you can get some truly exotic stuff.  In this case exotic rhymes with booyah expensive."

"The security is tight on all levels, even if everything seems to be a mishmash of stalls, booths, tents, and cavern corridors.  it is safest to just assume that everyone is part of the security.  I have seen what happens to a pickpocket and it is not pretty.  All tourists are warned at the entrance of the security measures and that the Market has a law of its own and the Overworld constabulary generally does not interfere with Below justice.  It is best to just not commit a crime there.  Anyway, we can follow this highlighted path direct to the Underplex right here.  At least I hope it is highlighted to you.  Someone speak up if it isn't.  We do not actually pass through any House territories on this route, which is why I recommend it.  We can pass through this connecting tunnel between the complexes with little problem unless we create the problem.  Lots of tourists take this route so they can tell their chums that they braved Below and lived to tell of it.  We can just meld into the groups of people going there and use the band cover to give us legitimacy.  The Underplex does sponsor bands and other entertainment and some of the clubs there are right along the type I have set up along our back path.  As a side note, I hope that all of you take at least a bit of time to review that information package I sent out earlier.  Just in case we get asked some questions.  I hope no one is seriously disappointed and I can certainly try to answer any questions about it.  But back to the route."

Robyn keeps her face to the image she created, although she can only see it in her mind.  "This is the route I recommend.  It is easy and requires almost no interaction with any House at all.  Is this enough, or do you want me to bring up the path Iris is working on?  It would be a bit more exciting in that you might find old friends there and it does cross some House territories.  It sounds like some of you had some issues Below and I would think you would want to stay away from that sort of thing.  Some Houses have long memories.  It would be a bold move indeed for a House to start something in the Market as that might result in getting them banned, and that could have serious repercussions.  The best thing to do if accosted is to remain calm and let security handle it.  Few of the shops and vendors are tied to any of the Houses and they value their neutrality.  And like I said, the security there is top-grade.  Let them do their job and try to avoid being part of the problem.  Hassling tourists is part of the fun there, but hurting them is strictly forbidden as long as they do not break the law."

"Questions?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-15-16/1130:07>

Jackhammer works silently with Al, helping to disassemble or unload weapons whenever necessary. Handling so many firearms reminds him of his time as a younger ork when he figured he'd end up in big corp sec and wanted to be the best shot at everything. Strange how he'd always done best with the bow though. He often wondered if he'd been meant for simpler times, not least because he was kind of bad with computers. But even so, the guns felt familiar in his hands. Comfortable. They were simple machines, if you ignored the smart features. So many ways of constructing tubes that fling debris at someone you want dead or incapacitated. It was a bit of a marvel that for all the ways you could ruin someone's life in the vast matrix or the mystical world of magic, here lay so many more classic instruments of warfare. "Some things don't go out of style." He mumbled with a smirk, then thinking again about his bow and his brawling skills. It struck him as sort of funny, really.

When Isaint made his remark about the house of flowers and Al chimed in, Jackhammer made a grunt of agreement but otherwise continued on in silence. He was pretty sure he was getting tired, but if he remembered right, this shadowrunning thing wasn't great for lovers of sleep.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-15-16/1146:33>

"Yeah, reckon I got a question. You got any rule o' thumb on when all these rules apply an' when they don't? Cuz last time we was down there, damned Flower hippies done hit us hard, took down one guy we ain't never seen since, an' run off with a teenage girl we was pertectin'. Right there in yer crime-free Nightside Market, an' not a peep from all this massive security y'all's on about. Then we goes ta git 'er back, an' din't hurt no one inna process mind, an' now we's all marked fer death fer breakin' the sacred circle o' love or some such. So is knowin' these rules good fer more'n a trip up shit creek, or we jist gotta wing it moment ta moment?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-15-16/1602:03>

Robyn blushes a bit but does not back down.  She does not turn her head as she says, "If they were that brazen you must have either done something to them or you had something they really wanted.  It is very odd, but not completely impossible to have that sort of thing happen.  The potential reward would have to be large indeed for a House to do that in the Market.  Wait, was that about a month ago?  Yes, so that was you guys?  You fragged them up pretty badly.  Both on the ground and in the Market.  Word is you got away with only losing two people and took out several of their best.  Oh, they paid for that.  The Market Court passed a two-month injunction on them with a stipulation that any further disturbances caused by them would result in a far lengthier injunction.  The taxes paid from the Market go to the Earl to be split among the Houses.  An injunction cuts a House out of their share, which is then split among the other Houses.  This amounts to a huge sum of money and trade-in-kind that the House of Flowers is losing out on for two months.  And the risk is so much greater if caught again.  So, no, what they did was not without consequence.  But remember that Below is not unlike any other Barrens in the world; the powerful get to set the rules and do as they want, as long as they do not set off the other powerful people.  In this case there are thirteen Houses, the Market, the Warrens, and several other entities.  The market loves its independence and is more than willing to hammer a House for infringing their rules.  For one thing, the market is the place most tourists see and they rely on the trade of the Overworld to survive."
 
"It is still possible that they may try something if they can use a proxy.  But even proxies can lead back to the source, and I would think that, unless the Master of the House has a personal beef with you, you will not be bothered by anyone even remotely associated with them."  She gives a rather pretty laugh.  "In fact, you might find them to be quite willing to escort you through the Market to avoid any incident that even looks like they had a hand in.  And I am sorry about your companion.  People go missing all the time there.  I would not even think of telling you to give up hope, but I will say that he is probably beyond any help you can give him if he was taken by the House of Flowers.  They have a rep for using slaves to test their latest drug creations on.  They test and test and test until what is left is nothing more than a brain-dead meat bag and then they peddle that off to one of the body shops, ghoul camps, or vampire dens."
 
Robyn pauses for a minute of thought then says, "And Al?  I cannot find this Shit Creek in my knowledge of Below." Her face was serious, her question matter-of-fact. "Is it perhaps known by some other name?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-15-16/1604:57>

Al took in the answer, and started to smile at her final question - until he saw her face. No hint of joking there,...and he was a little confused. Sure, she had that bit of a Russian lilt to her speech, but he'd never seen her miss an idiom. "Heh, jist a figure o' speech..." he mumbled, voice trailing off. He quickly redirected his efforts at a hidden compartment.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-15-16/1658:54>

"I'll take that assertion with a grain of salt. We keep away from them and try to keep our identities hidden.
Incidentally, that leads me to another bit of branding: Add gas masks to our get up either plain or as part of ballistics masks. Get's us a nice industrial image and prevents any jokers from dosing us again with gaseous drugs",
Isaint replied.

#266

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-15-16/1753:29>

"Shee-it, kemo sabe, glad I'm the roadie then cuz a body can't smoke in a damned gas mask. An' mark my words - ol' Al gon' buy it with a Lucky between his teeth. Likin' my cover more an' more. Livin' the rock'n'roll lifestyle without playin' any o' that rock'n'roller bullshit. Scorin' the squaws an' breakin' the laws, baby."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-15-16/2339:20>

Robyn nods and chuckles, It is always wise to take this sort of information with a grain of salt.  It is more what is supposed to happen and without the benefit of having someone close to the inside of the House."  She collapses the 3D model.  "So should I contact the Mechanica to arrange an escort?"

She shakes her head at Al's words. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-16-16/0225:57>

"Do it. That seems like a thing a tribute band with an underground tour would do.

So, Al, Jackhammer and Half-Pint: What is the status of our hiding smuggling compartments? Are we able to retrieve our gear at a moments notice, or do we need to get out the wrenches beforehand?"

Isaint walked over to the workplace to take a closer look on the two mules.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-16-16/0626:25>

"Wrenches? Reckon I'll be a dog inna manger afore I trust any o' y'all gun bunnies an' wiz-boys with a wrench. Nah, we doin' nice, easy access here. All the compartments is external, so whether they's a mule or a drum case, ya access from the outside o' the object. They's all chemsealed, an' ya open 'em by applyin' pressure ta the compartment in a three-step sequence. That way nothin' pops out if someone jist accidentally presses it. Now we'll show ya yer compartments an' yer pressure sequences, so remember 'em well, cuz ya won't see 'em with the naked eye. Won't all be done till mornin', but I got my shotgun in here like this, see..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-16-16/0727:49>

"Excellent. And don't worry. My rifles are both modded for easy break down and won't take up much space."
Isaint had already organized his arsenal into a neat little heap with the ammo and explosives securely tidied away in his two new hard shell cases. 
Now he practiced accessing his compartment as fast as possible, his fingers just flying through the motions.
'Seems like this flexibility training really paid off"

#268

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-16-16/0805:13>

Robyn sends off a note to Arch, asking for an escort into and through the LCZ, giving him the expected arrival time for the band at his side of the Old LB.  Then she walks over to look at the hidden compartments with the others.  She tentatively holds out a hand to Al.  "I have nothing to put in them right now, but I may need to access them later.  Perhaps to retrieve something for someone.  Please show me the compartments and the pressure points."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-16-16/0848:24>

Al obligingly takes her through the procedure for the ones they've got finished so far, knowing she'd remember each perfectly after one go. "Shotgun's in yer cello case - won't add much weight, mostly jist a tube with a firing mechanism at one end. Butt's the heaviest bit."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-16-16/1037:23>

Robyn lets him guide her hand, committing the pressure points to her memory.  The touch of his hand on hers brings back memories still fresh after eight years and she has to force herself to concentrate.  "Thanks, Al.  I will try to remember these.  Let me try without you."  She goes to the various pieces of equipment and her mutated brain tells her fingers where to push.  After a couple of tries, she is sure that she can open all of the hidden compartments.  She picks up the cello case and hefts it.  "You are correct; I know there is a difference but it would be hard for someone else to just pick it up and know the weight is off.  Well done, Al."

Alyce puts the cello case on the floor.  "OK.  I just received confirmation that we will have someone meet us just after passing through the sentry post at the LCZ end of the Old LB.  So what do we do now?  I am famished and could use some dinner.  Sasha tells me there is a small pub just a block away.  Any takers?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-16-16/1225:54>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Approach to Nightside Market, London Below]
 
The journey thus far could be called uneventful, if you discounted London traffic, a cursory military checkpoint and then meeting a bunch of heavily steampunked tribals in a converted gothic cathedral on the banks of the Thames.  The depressing LCZ had lived up to expectations, the drab, crumbling housing, vacant stares from chipheads and the fetid stink of a sewage system that was long overdue even the most basic maintenance.
 
Uncharacteristically the sun baked down during the course of the day, but that just served to make the contrast higher when you finally plunge underground…
 
The more-or-less abandoned Kennington tube station takes you down into the tunnels that will lead to Nightside, and away from Hellbound station which Robyn knows to avoid, and you mingle with the trickle of people moving in both directions.  Folk generally become weirder the deeper you go and your senses tingle as adrenalin levels begin to rise…
 
Suddenly and unexpectedly, and without apparent cause, Isaint’s mentor rages an incoherent warning… a hobo is just ahead, a dwarf, or perhaps a child, gauging by the huddled stature rattling a tin at the ‘passing trade’…
 
***
_#06
 
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-16-16/1321:05>

Isaint had used the time to familiarize himself with Robyn's efforts for their cover identity. According to that his name was Johnny Luckless, drummer of the newcomer band Dead Man Walking. It had taken a bit of work to get the face right, but the shining white full beard and long hair were easy to do. His electro-chromic coat now sported with white texture on black background the band's logo: A broken tombstone with visible footsteps leading away.

Now he was walking in front of the group while his Anthro Drone brought up the rear with his brand new myomer backpack, ready to equip him with whatever gear he needed.

When the warning came, he reacted without real thought:

<<STOP! Something is wrong - defensive formation, take positions now!>>

Isaint uttered the warning together with a bunch of ARO markers even while his hand had reached under his coat to free his Savalette Guardian from his jacket.

<<Susi, Arthur: Full Defense, Underground Protocol>>
Immediately his jammer went to full strength, complemented by his agent performing certain settings to hide and protect his gear from the matrix.

Only then did he consciously concentrate on what had triggered the warning, looking at the small figure ahead and its surroundings.

[spoiler]
Small Unit Tactics: Diamond Formation (http://orokos.com/roll/374107): 15d6t5 5 [15d6t5=6, 4, 1, 4, 6, 6, 1, 2, 3, 3, 6, 5, 1, 3, 4]
Success - Benefits: +1 bonus against any surprise/ambush checks, +2 on Initiative roll (R&G p.100)

Perception (Visual) (http://orokos.com/roll/374110): 18d6t5 6 [18d6t5=1, 4, 2, 5, 3, 1, 1, 6, 1, 1, 6, 1, 1, 4, 5, 5, 3, 5]
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-16-16/1633:07>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Approach to Nightside Market, London Below]
 
Miraculously the tunnel around you empties of all but yourselves and the hunched beggar as the denizens of this place sense it is suddenly not a good place to be...

The 'dwarf' sloughs off whatever illusion was masking it and a tall figure rises to its feet, with some degree of shock Robyn at least recognises the 'Old One', a tall, very old black man whose dreds have turned white...he is carrying a carved wooden staff, walnut perhaps, but it is his eyes that are the most arresting...snake like...

"So, you have come back to Below..."
 
***
_#07

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-16-16/1714:02>

"Aw geez," mutters Al under his breath. "Damned crazy Choirboy king. Already off to a psycho start."

He fades into the background, hoping not to be noticed, and eager for others to deal with the self-styled oracle.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-16-16/1737:34>

"Why do I have the distinct impression, that you aren't a fan of our music..."
While he spoke Isaint opened his third eye to get a better look at the figure in front of them.
"Who are you and what do you want?"

[spoiler]
Assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/374175): 8d6t5 1 [8d6t5=1, 3, 4, 2, 3, 2, 1, 6]

[/spoiler]

#270

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-17-16/0052:16>

It had been a while since Robyn had worked with any military operatives, but the habits came back in a flash as she slid into a place in the diamond formation and froze, using her drone's sensor feeds to see what has caused ISaint to give that command.  The morphing of the Dwarf ahead of them surprises her, but then she sees who it is.  She wonders what The Old One is doing here, but by his words it appears that he has been waiting for them.  She can count The Old One as a friend, but she believes this not to be a social call, but ISaint's tone implies that he does not know who the man is.  She steps forward and bows low.  "ISaint, may I introduce you to The Old One, a respected friend of mine.  He is an extremely influential person in Below.  My friend, this is ISaint, a companion of mine.  What do you wish of us?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-17-16/0354:31>

Isaint just lifted an eyebrow.
Through his commlink he asked her: <<I assume you did not inform anyone of our plans to come here, did you? If so, please tell me exactly who else knows of our plans to come this way.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-17-16/0502:13>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Approach to Nightside Market, London Below]
 
To Isaint’s other sight the Old One appears to be both there and not there.  The fact that Robyn’s ultrasound registers his presence implies he’s more than simply a manifest projection, a materialised spirit perhaps?  Either way his aura is otherwise unreadable, masking rigidly controlling any sense of emotion or power
 
“I know who Isaint, Guthrie and the Jackhammer are!  They have been here before.  I am sometimes called the Old One, here I am the Storyteller.  I am here to tell you a story of brave Overworlders venturing into the cesspit of Below and disrupting the careful balance through their heroic ignorance.  They are not to blame, Below has its own arcane laws, but nevertheless they must face the consequences of their deeds.  If they wish to travel Below again then there is a task they must perform…a task to rebalance the scales…”
 
_#08
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-17-16/0514:21>

'For a moment I thought I heard him call himself the Dungeon Master... Keep a straight face, damn it! This one is not a person to be trifled with.'

"And what would that quest... I mean what would that task be? As you probably already know, we are on a mission. A mission that has certain time constraints."
Isaint allowed himself to relax a fraction, now that no immediate attack seemed to be imminent.

#272

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-17-16/0752:41>

Robyn steps back politely now that the introductions are unnecessary.  She responds to ISaint's question, >>I spoke to no one of our coming here, other than the Mechanica to get an escort through the Zone  Iris was laying all the groundwork Below, perhaps she said something?  The Old One has powers that no one really understands and perhaps he simply divined that we were coming this way.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-17-16/0846:45>

Isaint made sure the others were in on the electronic conversation: <<Iris didn't know we would take this particular entrance. "Powers that no one understands" is just another word for highly efficient spy apparatus.
And if one man has this information already, we can expect that others know about this as well. Consider our cover for Below as compromised if not even completely burned.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-17-16/0850:52>

Robyn adds, >>The Old One is known to keep his council on many things.  It is unlikely that he would have set us up or exposed our cover.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-17-16/1222:33>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Approach to Nightside Market, London Below]
 
“It was you who destabilised the status quo down here and the price of your passage is to rectify that.  I don’t care much about your mission and its time constraints, that is your business, but if you wish to pass through this domain then those are my terms.
 
I wish you to arrange an alliance of House Laésal and the Iron Company.  The notion of marriages of alliance are outmoded Above but they carry weight here Below and I know of two young lovers who risk their Houses’ displeasure to form a union.  We will call them Romeo and Juliet for now…I am sure you will do your utmost to ensure that the story ends better for this couple…”
 
***
 
#09

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <02-17-16/1340:24>

It was a shockingly small amount of time before things had begun to go wrong. Halfpint observed the goings on from VR through the varying feeds of the noizquitos, ready to jump into the big lad if things went south.
<<Fuck. well so much for that story then. Plan B anyone?>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-17-16/1638:35>

"We... wait, what?"
Isaint pinched the bridge of his nose, closing his eyes for a moment to concentrate, than began to count on the fingers of his left hand:
"Ok, let's assume for a moment that our actions did destabilize your power structure - which by the way does not speak in favor of your system if all it takes is a gas grenade and a few bullets against a bunch of drug heads - and we further assume that we do this task instead of using another way to reach our destination.

The very first thing we should clarify: You don't call a pair of teenagers Romeo and Juliet. At least not if you want them to have a happy end and survive.
Secondly, how is this going to stabilize the houses if both are against this marriage? Wouldn't that bring the hardliners in either factions to target the spouse of their kid to end this marriage prematurely?

Thirdly: Why do you care that the drug heads lost power? For all I've seen of them, they are a vile bunch of slavers, targeting teenagers with mind control magic. Stabilizing them would mean to condone their actions.

Fourthly: How on earth would we even get near the druggies without causing yet another clash? If I remember correctly they did call out a Fatwa or something like it on us. So to join the happy couple together we would have to infiltrate an actively hostile house and someone who sounds like a serious paramilitary organization. Probably without killing or hurting any of the two, since that would defeat the purpose of this exercise.

And fifthly: We would have to do that within the next 12 hours. Otherwise our window of opportunity closes and we don't need this FUCKING PASSAGE ANYMORE!"


#274

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-17-16/1720:24>

Al sat down against a wall and lit a cigarette. The old coot's attempt at logic didn't match his rep, and Al knew for a fact he was crazy, but he was still a big honcho down here.

But none of that mattered - Al had made sure Isaint was in charge precisely so that no-win calls like this would remain well above his pay grade.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-17-16/2032:58>

Jackhammer smirked in spite of himself. His first instinct was just to knock this guy out and keep moving, but apparently there was magic involved, and that might mean he's not even standing there, or that he's not physical, or something else equally inconvenient and difficult to understand. But of course ISaint had a gun, so if he wanted the man dead, and thought it possible, it would probably be done by now. And if he wanted him knocked out, he'd have said something surely. That was the great thing about someone else being in charge. But the other great thing was who else was in charge. A terribly charismatic, apparently otherwise likable character, with both knowledge and influence in the below. Someone perfectly suited to smooth out this relational 'concern'. And with their time crunch, there was no way she'd be able to get it all handled and meet back with them before they'd already mostly completed the mission, meaning she wouldn't be there to be equal shares annoying and visually distracting. He wasn't sure ISaint was totally ready to make that leap just yet, so he spoke up and simply asked, "What about Iris?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-17-16/2309:59>

Robyn steps back to where ISaint is standing.  "Iris could be a good choice, but we do not know her situation and time is of the essence.  My guess is that she is experiencing.........difficulties of some kind.  I would offer my own services.  I know the lay of the land down here and have no bad relations with either House."  She turns her sightless eyes to The Old One and removes her mask.  "There is some leverage we can use to try to convince the Poisoned Maiden and the Heartbreaker to let these children marry.  The House of Flowers lost considerable face when it failed to stop a small group of Overworlders from escaping their clutches.  Perhaps an alliance with the Iron Company would give them some influence back.  And, while the Iron Company is soldiers, it is also merchants.  Every House in Below has long coveted some of the drugs of House Laesal and this marriage could be a way to get some that the other Houses would not have access to.  I imagine that it would take a broker of some sort to get these people to see the value of such a relationship.  Would it be possible for me to act with the blessing of the Earl on this?  It might smooth things over for me.  Would you allow the rest of the band to visit the Market where I can rejoin them when I am done?  It would make it easier for us to continue on our way if they are already near the tunnels to the Underplex."  She faces ISaint.  "Would this be acceptable to you as well?  I will do what I can and rejoin you in the Market."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-18-16/0341:44>

To Jackhammer he sent a short text: <<Do not volunteer information the opposition might not yet have>>

To Robyn he said:
"Please wait. Let's first hear the facts before we commit to any compromises.
And just to be clear: I'll be damned if I let you go alone into danger.
As far as I am concerned the drug heads got exactly what they had coming to them for their frankly uncivilized behavior. I am willing to help if this improves the situation for the common people and reduces the despotism of those in power, but I will not aid our declared enemy that has proven itself to be devoid of the most basic human decency." 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-18-16/0756:50>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Approach to Nightside Market, London Below]

The Storyteller gently taps his staff against the ground to emphasise each point but the smile is mocking with a sense of ignorant Overworlders in his tone

“Your companion is correct, when they failed to master you they lost face, that they involved the Harlequinade compounded their problems…they have been ruthlessly satirised and although the clowns are Overworlders their stories have substance and power here, more so than above.

So, firstly…I will not reveal their names to you until you accept this task, names have power even in your world.  The ones I chose are linked to great love and great tragedy, if you act to change that then the names will change.

Secondly…I did not say the Houses were opposed, you assume too much, again your companion is right, they both stand to benefit.  Each House is not a unified whole of course, in every group of humans politics inevitably emerges, it is your nature.  With this marriage ratified according to our customs the sharks will circle off for a while longer.

Thirdly…phah, you betray your ignorance, drug heads, vile slavers, that is far too simplistic, they are the premier herbalists and healers Below and in one way or other the whole of metahumanity are enslaved to a degree.  I know you runners pride yourselves on your freedoms, but you too are slaved to the systems you seek to skulk underneath…and yes, I know you will throw choice in my face, but that too is an illusion.  The Flowers treat their people no worse than any other, and better than some Below. 

Below is a distorted mirror of Above, what do you think would happen if your corps were to fight each openly?  Do you not think that suffering should be avoided if possible?  This is my domain and I do not want the blood flowing in the streets.

Fourth…this pair have been conducting their assignations in secret for nearly a year my whisperers tell me, I am sure it could be arranged for them to come to you.  Provided you do not throw yourselves in the Maiden’s face then you should be able to avoid unpleasantness with the Flowers.  The Bane they pronounced on you was lifted the moment you left Below…

Fifth…I did not stipulate the timing of this marriage, granted it needs to be sooner rather than later to forestall the chaos of a House War, but if you return to it after your precious mission I am sure that will be acceptable.  I thank your companion for her offer to deal with this alone but there are symbolic reasons why it has to be the three of you righting the balance…”

***

#10

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-18-16/0919:29>

Robyn nods first to ISaint in acknowledgment of his words then to The Old One.  She turns and goes back to her position in the diamond formation and waits there.  The Old One's words are meant for others and she can wait to find out her role in what is to happen. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-18-16/1632:23>

Jackhammer fought of his "frag yourself" reflex reaction to ISaint's text, which was impressive since he had a special quick reply button on his 'link for just such occasions. He knew he was right. This was bigger than personal annoyances. The Below was a dangerous place, and Jackhammer was still thinking more of co-worker relationships and establishing dominance than he was about the potential severity of the upcoming situation. He rolled his shoulder and cracked his elbow, letting out an impatient sigh. He turned his attention back to business, and just at that moment, business was this guy burning their time and blowing their cover. He looked to Isaint, waiting for any version of "go".

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-19-16/0413:32>

"The clowns are one of the few people I know who actively do something against the Shedim. That makes them alright in my books and the Druggies deserve what they got from messing with them.

Ok. Let's call them Alice and Bob instead. At least the cryptography examples stand a chance in keeping Eve from knowing.

No, but you implied it. Because if the houses where behind the idea of intermarrying you wouldn't need us to play matchmaker. And I know hands first that a lot of people really hate things that would be good for them - like behaving in a civilized fashion, just to name a random example.

Sure, some very select experiments in KZ's some 140 years ago might have been beneficial to the total of human medical knowledge, but that doesn't make Mengele my preferred go to source for healthcare. Primo nocere - if that is not the prime directive of your healers they aren't worth a damn.
And don't come to me with metaphysical bullshit how from a certain point of view we are slaves. The Druggies proved in the most direct fashion possible that they are nothing more than a bunch of rapists - attacking the mind of a 14 year old girl with the aim to drug her up and remove any form of volition from her to use her for their own ends is not the same as living in a capitalist system. Also, even if there are factions that treat their victims worse, that in no way excuses their actions. It just means there are other houses that should lose power.

But yes, I do agree that suffering should be avoided. Which is the only reason I continue this conversation.

Yeah, yeah, but this bane can be reinstated as easily as it was lifted. And it's not like we flung ourselves into anyones faces. It was their own choice to attack us, twice I might add. It really isn't the rocks fault if an idiot wants to bash his head against it repeatedly.

Finally, despite all this I do entertain the thought of complying with your request under the following conditions:
1. We are allowed to carry out our mission unhindered - that includes the delivery of the goods.
2. You use that spy network of yours to find out what happened to our companions that were lost while we trecked through this hellhole you call Below
3. I can't promise you the help of Al or Jackhammer. They didn't sign up for this. Neither did the rest of our group. So unless they are willing to do so from their own free will, you'll only get my cooperation.

If you are worried about me never coming back, I'll remind you that I follow St. George the Dragonslayer. My word is my bond.

And I should mention that those conditions are not up for debate. There are other ways we can reach our destination - less secure and easy maybe, but on balance not that much more dangerous than your proposed conditions."
Replied Isaint

#276

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-19-16/0836:28>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Approach to Nightside Market, London Below]

The Storyteller scowled at Isaint

“You do not listen and I will not try to persuade you.  You see black and white when there is only grey, but what can you expect from someone who follows your mentor?  Perhaps once you have met some of the Flowers other than over the barrel of a gun you will see fit to rethink your blinkered preconceptions?

It is no matter, it must be the three of you or none, your new companions can aid you or not as they see fit but without you three there is no deal.  If it was simply a matter of bringing these two together do you not think I could achieve that through less convoluted means, and dealing with people far less annoying?

The bane will not be re-instated, by the Flowers or anyone else, do not believe that we are incapable of flexible thought, it did not work before and there is no reason to believe it would do again.

As to you terms, I can only guarantee that my people will not interfere in your mission, nobody speaks for the whole of Below.  Take that or leave it.  My whisperers will look for your missing friends certainly.  I can tell you now that the one you called Solo has left Below unscathed, relatively, and I believe that Mel succumbed to the Shadows.  Who else do you wish me to find?

So, you must decide now, do you accept my task or do you turn round and find another route to your goal?  I will not threaten and bluster, if you do not accept I will need to find another way to my goal and I do not have time to deal with recalcitrant Overworlders…”

***

#11

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-19-16/1137:20>

Al's only loyalty was to his co-workers.

"I go the way Isaint goes....but not without Jackhammer...An' what does that mean, 'succumbed to the Shadows?'"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <02-19-16/1218:29>

Jackhammer was pretty pissed at being called "recalcitrant", and made a mental note to look that up on the matrix later to find out what it meant. But it looked like Al and ISaint might be close to a deal with this weirdo, and that could at least get him out of the way. Being honest with himself about it, he didn't give two nuyen if the others planned to make good on their word or not. Normally he had feelings about respect and such, but he just wasn't too motivated to hold those values in the underground nut-house. But it didn't sound too awful either, just petty and mundane. So he'd decide later. But for now, he nodded his affirmation to ISaint in case that's the diplomatic route he wanted to take.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-20-16/1406:11>

"I tell you what: I won't start a discussion about why moral principles aren't the same thing as binary vision and you stop that "you ignorant fool" talk. That will cut massively how much time we have to endure each other and our incompatible philosophies.

It's good to hear that Solo made it out - although I wonder if it's him or just a new personality of him. And yes, there were more: A Native American human called Smiley, an elven Mage with the handle Hallucination and a human drone rigger named Nitro.
Also, same question: Is "succumbed" to the shadows code for "got killed" or for "got killed and is now inhabited by a vengeful Shedim?

So we two have a deal: Once we have resolved our current affairs we get back to you to help arrange a marriage and when that's done you give us the rest of the information I asked for.
That's good enough for me.
Al and Jackhammer, do you have conditions or a price you'd ask for this considerable risk? Likewise the rest of you, if you plan to participate in this undertaking, do you have questions or demands?"
Inquired Isaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-20-16/1429:45>

"What you jist done asked, that's all I care 'bout, plus - if any of 'em's alive an' in bondage or some shit down here, then help with gittin' 'em out," answered Al, standing back up and eager to get back on the road.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-20-16/2136:59>

Robyn remains silent for the time being.  She is comfortable in Below, considering it her second home in London, and does not really appreciate the rancor displayed by ISaint towards The Old One, but she does not know the entire story.and this appears to be something that involves only three of the team directly.  She has heard the rumors about what happened, between the House of Flowers and the Overworlders, but those are just that, rumors, and anything that has been through more than one person is probably only partially true at best.  She puts a tag on the folder in her mind she has started for the members of the team; this is probably a story that should be asked about, if only to get more information. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-22-16/0811:30>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Approach to Nightside Market, London Below]

"I believe her soul was consumed by the shadow spirits inhabiting the Catacombs and that the Harlequinade ended her suffering, but you may ask them yourselves when you go to Nightside, they are still performing there.  It is unusual for them to stay in one place for so long so perhaps they are waiting for you?

We have an agreement, go, perform your mission and I will send my whisperers to you with details of our two lovers so that you can make the arrangements for them.  Your companion knows how to reach me if you need to, and I will be watching you..."

And with little more ceremony the figure is gone...

***

#12

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-22-16/0824:43>

Isaint relaxed a bit, turned to the team and nodded once.
<<Well, that could have gone better - or worse. I apologize for pulling you into this, but I do want to find out what happened to the members of our previous group.
It will probably be best if we get a move on and keep our heavier weapons at hand from now on. Keep the formation - this "friendly" encounter could have easily been an ambush by the Druggies. So keep those respirators and gasmasks close at hand as well.

Jackhammer, I apologize for my curt reply, but talking about Iris might have endangered her if she went here under an alias.

Let's see if we can catch up with the Clowns. They have proved to be valuable allies if not a perfect deterrent against attacks.>>



#278

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <02-23-16/1610:16>

Halfpint relaxed his itchy trigger finger, hovering over the laser's VR trigger as it had for the past minute or so.
[colour=green]I'll take point, follow the big guy[/color]
[spoiler]halfpint is jumped into the steel lynx, the 10 noizquitos have been launched and are scouting ahead using the swarm program off the RCC for linked bonuses to perception checks. he's locked in the rigger coccoon of the tank-bike and the pilot is instructed to follow the team and use sensors to sweep area behind team for ambushes[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-24-16/0859:37>

Isaint nodded and gave way to the large drone.
Without another word the trek moved again through the hostile underground environment.

Now he carried again his rifle on it's sling over his shoulder. To hell with the drummer disguise - Below had recognized them anyway within the first five minutes...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-24-16/1008:11>

Robyn stays in her assigned place as the team begins moving forward.  She reaches down into the neck of her frock and pulls a small chunk of carved wood up by its braided leather cord, kissing it and murmuring something softly before putting it back inside her top next to her skin.  Feeling better, she moved forward with the rest, her mind half on what her drones are seeing and half on what The Old One really wants.  She sends a message.  >>Team.  Robyn.  I do not want to create issues where they might not exist, so please take my words with that in mind.  But in my experience in Below, I am not aware of The Old One taking an interest in something like this.  I am pretty sure that his plans go deeper that helping this couple out or even in evening out the power issues between the Houses.  I consider him a friend, but he has secrets that go beyond friendship.  Saying that, I am also pretty sure that we can maintain our band disguise as it is unlikely that he will have shared any information about us.  But I would urge caution in any case.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-24-16/1051:12>

<<Thanks for the information. In my experience, master strategists never do anything without it having more than one purpose. If I had to guess this is more about preventing another house from gaining power than helping the poor Druggies.
Once we reach Nightside we can again pretend. But this conversation was more or less in public and we can't be sure we weren't overheard. So until we get to the market we'll display enough force to keep the natives on their toes.>>

#280

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-25-16/1232:06>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Nightside Market, London Below]

Another ten minutes or so of tense trekking though the abandoned subways tunnels and storm drains the sound of Nightside begins to assail you, followed not long after by the pungent aromas of food, unwashed metahumanity and a great many other scents, some less identifiable than others.  A moment to straighten your disguises once more and you are ready to proceed into the bustle of the final approach to the market…

***

#13

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-25-16/1816:20>

Everything about this place turned Al's stomach.

These were the sorts that hippies would call hippies.

But they had a fresh line on some of their old co-workers now, and he wasn't going to mess that up.

No doing crimes, no doing violence in Nightside. Except that really meant no being seen doing either in Nightside. So if someone needed hurting, it just meant he'd have the pleasure of using his hands.

So he re-assumed his cunning disguise, which consisted entirely of secreting his Remington once more in Alyce's cello case.

And that was it.

Because he was the roadie.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-26-16/0002:20>

Robyn takes in the smells and sounds of Nightside and smiles.  There are few places that she is more comfortable in.  Already, her mouth is watering at the aromas wafting through the air and a multitude of AROs are advertising wares found no where else and others that can be found in the Overworld but gain a certain something extra for being sold Below.  She messages the team, >>Alright.  Remember that this is Level 3 and most of the shops are fairly general in nature, but there are hundreds of them.  Here is an overlay of the map of the Market.  The red stripe is our route unless we want to stray from it.  I would recommend staying together unless you are experienced down here, as it would be easy to get confused.  Any questions?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <02-26-16/0254:58>

nope, just give me a sec
He quick released the cocoon and grabbed the tarp sheets from his bike's storage, clambering up the lynx and covering the weapons that couldn't be retracted. He'd still draw attention but the act of sheathing the weapons showed he wasn't out to make an obvious statement of intent.
Besides, the tarp could soon be shot through if he needed to.
Jumping back into the cocoon, he slipped back into VR and sent the noizquito swarm on ahead, scouting the red route for obvious trouble

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-26-16/0351:02>

<<Let's keep on the golden brick road then. Please, no shopping excursions for now.
Robyn, please activate the AR overlay you created for our band and make sure the demo-song is freely available.
Otherwise, let's get a move on before we meet someone interesting.>>

Isaint's rifle had folded up neatly on itself and now rested again behind the secret panel. His coat showed the band logo, while he brought up the rear with his drone walking beside him.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-26-16/1034:12>

Robyn nods and brings up the ARO for Dead Men Walking, which includes a partial list of "International Concert Dates" and a short copy of her demo tape of their music that plays on a loop for those interested.  The loop is just a teaser and there is a note that the band is for hire and anyone interested should seek out the manager.  She responds to the message from ISaint.  >>Got it.  Stay with the group.  Great idea.  But there is this really neat shop a few rows over that carries the best steampunk frocks.  Just saying.  LOL<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-28-16/0746:34>

<<Yeah, sure. But business first and pleasure later. Damn it. I'm sounding like my own father now.>>

Isaint looked around a bit more - some people had stopped to watch them walk by - no real surprise considering the impressive AR display. Not for the first time he wished they'd found a more subtle disguise, but there was nothing to it now. So instead he opened a coat pocket and gave Al a packet of cards.
"Here, got them printed just two hours ago: Autogramm cards with the bands likeness - just subtly altered enough that image recognition won't connect us to our real identities. Hand them out if we run into any hipsters that insist that they know our obscure little band."
With a lowered voice he said:
"And watch out for those kids over there - the little blond girl just lifted a credstick from this fat guys pocket - we really should avoid heavy crowds down here..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <02-29-16/1142:09>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Nightside Market, London Below]
 
Nightside is a sort of madcap version of the Seattle Crime Mall, with anything and everything for sale or barter.  You thread your way through the crowds avoiding the more obvious cons and pick pockets.  You are aware of the vaunted security but they seem content to leave you alone and it is only the hawkers that try and engage you in any real conversation…
 
As you are making your way down to where, reportedly, Nightside dips underneath the Underplex, you pass through a triple height space that is alive with music and applause.  Above you, vaulting impossibly across the eight meter void, you catch a fleeting glimpse of the Harlequinade as they perform one of their vaguely comprehensible sagas to the denizens of Below.
 
With a twisting leap one of them detaches herself from the dance and springs down to land on one foot balanced on the balustrade on the edge of the drop, the other leg tucked up like some demented stork.  The masked figure cocks her head and sketches you all a mocking bow before stepping down gently in front of Halfpint’s drone tank…
 
Expressive gestures trace glowing AROs in the air before you
 
<Welcome travellers, Hecate has requested that you join your music with our own above>
 
and she nods at the floor above you where the show is proceeding more and more frenetically…   
 
***
 
#14
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <02-29-16/1204:59>

'Shit and just now our starlet is missing.'
<<Robyn, seems like it's time to test the disguise. Team, for those who don't know them, those are friendlies - at least they were the last time we met. So keep your cool even if they behave funnily.>>
Isaint stepped forward:
"Greetings, thanks for the invitation. Where would you have us deploy our instruments safely? And what may we call you?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <02-29-16/1244:06>

Always having wanted to be a roadie, Al fully embraced his assigned role as tout, handing out cards to anyone that would take them as he vigorously extolled the virtues of their art - which recommendations were no more than a relentless flow of meaningless hyperbole, since he had no real idea what ort of music they played. Well, to be fair he knew it was some sort of folk-chamber bastardization of some of his favorite alternative country tunes - but again, that left him with no idea what it would sound like.

So he worked the crowd around the perimeter of the group, quietly regaling passersby about the band's excellence with the command of a cicus ringmaster's imprimatur but the intimacy of a confidence man's game, his gravel-pit voice pricking the ears of all who would listen, until he was upstaged by his favorite clown act. Annoyed as he was to be in a place where even the stand-up cats acted like a bunch of namby-pamby fops, he figured he owed these freaks enough to shut up and listen to where they needed the gear set up.

Besides, he was almost out of cards anyway.



 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <02-29-16/2319:12>

Robyn sends a new map to the team with a bright path that marks the way to the nearest access to the next floor.  Once up they can follow the music from the Harlequinade, arriving at the stage.  Robyn gracefully removes the cello case from her Mule and takes it to where she is told.  She opens the case and lovingly takes the cello from it, playing a few chords to make sure it is in tune while the roadie and the drummer set up the drums.  She kicks in the synthe link and turns the wireless link to the speakers on.  Robyn calls out to the roadie, asking for some water to be placed behind her chair.  She sends a quick note to the team.  >>We are missing Star Blazer, but my voice is good enough for this and we can still carry on.  Let me know when everyone is ready and we can start.  The music is in the playlist I have attached if you forgot to bring what I sent you earlier.  Basically, though, we are a club grunge band and all of the music does not need to sound perfect.  Try not to let the drums overpower the other instruments and we will be OK.  Confidence.<<

When all the others are ready she opens with the first song on the playlist she has passed out.  She has composed the music to fit the lyrics and knows everything by heart.  This is not your grandmother's cello music, but something far different.  She gets into the music as if she were playing to the London Grand Hall.  The chords roll off the instrument and blare through the speakers, accompanied by what the other players add.  Her voice is not the quality of Iris', but it is good.  It is more than good enough for this sort of music.  She does not know how long the set is supposed to last and it does not matter.  Music is her blood and she thrives on it; she needs it.  She puts her heart into every song, making the cello do things that many would say are impossible.  She is a doctor and decker by trade; but God gave her a rare talent with music and she displays that here.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <03-03-16/1557:01>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Nightside Market, London Below]

At Isaint’s query to the clown’s name she bows her head and her mask ripples and morphs into a sad face, but instead of a tear drop a red crucifix adorns her cheek…she wipes away a tear and sketched another ARO in the air

<I am a mime extraordinaire, backdrop to the great tales…my titles are many, but you may call me Satire>

Leading you aloft she rejoins her companions as they cavort around your preparations…

***

Once you begin playing the mockery stops and all the Harlequinade adopt poses of rapt attention.  This seems to rub off on the locals too and they more or less stop whatever they are doing to listen too.  The applause when you finish is heartfelt and it would seem you have a future as a grunge band if you ever want to give up running!

As the crowd finally begin to disperse Hecate materialises from somewhere, her triple faced mask turning to study you all

“Thank you for your sharing.  We have much to discuss, of lives and lovers lost, of pain and of balance.  Come, there is a chamber near here where we can be private…” and she leads the way…

***

#15

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-03-16/2358:36>

Robyn's arms are tired, but she feels good.  The music was well received, validating her ability to mix old and new.  She walks over to get her case and carefully puts the cello and bow away before doing what she can to help put things away.  While packing she sends a note out, >>Team.  So is this meeting with the Harlequinade to be only for ISaint, Al, and Jackhammer?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-04-16/0348:09>

Isaint felt mentally exhausted since he simply did not have the muscle memory to play the drums. So he had been concentrating intensely for this performance.

When Hecate appeared, Isaint inclined his head and replied "Thanks, we'll come."

<<Don't even think about splitting the team - my drone will stay and keep an eye on things.>>
<<Arthur: Equipment guardian protocol - sub lethal>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-06-16/1020:19>

Robyn obeys ISaint's directive and follows him to the meeting, setting Sasha to keep a watch over her equipment.  As they walk, she says, "That felt good.  I think we had the attention of the crowd, and that can be tough in the Market.  I think that we all did a good job."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <03-06-16/1207:37>

So far so good... thought Halfpint.
Convincing show, turned a few heads. Cover seems to be working for the moment at least.
Yet another meeting left him wondering when they were going to crack on with the real work though. They hadn't made that much progress but had been sidelined a couple of times already.
Itching to crack on, he sent a wave of 5 of his noizquitos to investigate the route down to below and report back whilst 5 returned to the landing rack to charge.
[spoiler]@ GM could you let me know what the drones report back from their scouting run to the entrance?[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-06-16/1210:03>

Isaint gave a chuckle at Robyn's remark: "Yeah, but I'd guess it's mainly the fact that the Harlequinade asked us to perform under their spot. But on the whole yes, we got a lot of attention - mind you, from my perspective that's not really a good thing. Because whenever I got attention from a lot of people at the same time before, it ended with someone getting shot."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-06-16/1257:03>

Robyn nods and laughs back.  "Not saying that it won't get us shot at, but at least we will be well known when it happens.  I am sure this is not the first time either of us has been given the opportunity to be shot at?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Csjarrat on <03-06-16/1611:09>

guys, I dunno about you but all this attention is starting to get me a bit itchy. More people poke, more they're gonna find. Lets crack on eh?[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-06-16/2352:08>

Robyn shakes her head.  "I understand where you are coming from, but it would be rude to not at least listen to what they have to say, especially since it seems to have some sort of meaning for those of us who have lost dear friends and companions.  Besides, we agreed on the band and should be living it, not hiding it.  Our sort of band rises high over a short time then flames out just as quickly, but while they are an in thing, they live large and play large.  If nothing else, we have learned that on our epic trek across Greater Europe to right fragging here in Below, London.  We have lost Star Blazer, our lead singer, and are on our third drummer after Mario bailed on us in that drek town Ypres and Kooch was arrested for that unfortunate incident with the pre-teen slut that looked like she was at least fifteen.  And...and...."  She motions over to where Al is walking.  "And I do not even remember how many roadies we have gone through.  It seems like a new one in every town we play.  Where did you pick this one up and what is his name, anyway?"

Robyn twirls about on her rather plain walking stick; her fancy one being buried in the cargo on her mule.  Flinging out a hand to catch herself on that of the short manager, she exclaims, "We are Dead Men Walking and are one fragging good band, and we should enjoy that while we have the chance."  She lowers her voice a bit and continues, "Besides, who shoots at a band?  Well, besides a jealous husband.  Or wife.  Maybe a debt collector.  Or perhaps some sort of purist who does not like what we have done to their fav music."  She laughs and continues to walk with Halfpint and her Hell Hound service animal.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <03-07-16/1930:56>

Jackhammer spent the entire time sweating. Just strolling along was one thing, but actually performing as a band was another. Luckily nobody was trying to get him on stage. Still, he felt a strong anxiety as he stood guard. It would easily be misunderstood for nervousness about his surroundings or the crowd, but that didn't stop him from seeing danger in every shadow and suspicion in every eye. His hands kept idly searching his person for a gun, then his brain reminded him that he didn't have any on him right now. But eventually the performance ended and the crowds dispersed enough that he could finally relax. Then they got the message about the meeting with the clowns. He sighed, resigned himself to the strange customs of Below, and followed Isaint. It seemed Halfpint was getting a little anxious himself, and that made Jackhammer feel better to know that someone else had hyperfocus on the mission. He just wished it was Isaint. But he sure wasn't going to say anything about it out loud.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-08-16/0148:34>

The walk through the market was almost an overwhelming experience. The activity, the decadence, the flow of emotions from the dwellers and visitors - Deckard could have enjoy the experience if under other circumstances. That whole band cover was drawing more attention than he liked, and he could feel his fellow runner were as wary as he was. He got the best part of the stick being assigned as the "Magical Security" of the band. It required the less faking. Not that he wasn't good at faking, he actually enjoyed a good con then and there, but playing instruments were not part of his most desirable skillsets.

But then he heard her. Robyn and her Cello. For a moment he even let down his constant astral scanning he has been doing since entering below. That was talent, and surprisingly from almost the only non-awaken team member, along with Halfpint, it was to him almost magical.

So now he was sold on the band. ISaint did a decent job with the drumming, and knowing the sheer legends of Dryads voice, he knew if Iris would add on to this, they could probably retire from running for a while!

Nobody was sure whether the invite was really just for the three Below vets in the team, but Deckard was now curious about what was going to be said, so he follow point, still by intermittence switching to his Astral Perception to assense people and surrounding.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-08-16/0253:53>

Isaint noticed the latent nervousness of his chummers - or rather tension for action.
<<Guys, just to be clear: This is not a social visit - we are trying to get intel here and maybe even an escort to the Underplex. And don't get freaked out by their mysterious speech - it's what they do. We'll just have to ask for clarification - that usually works. Doesn't matter if we look dumb doing it - people down here think we are dumb anyway for coming here in the first place.
Since we have a side mission here, we'll need every ally we can get. Doesn't matter if they do it out of pity.>>

#286

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-08-16/0734:18>

Robyn digests what ISaint has said then sends a group text.  >>Team.  Robyn.  ISaint is right about needing all of the help we can get down here because we could be arrayed against powerful foes.  But I do question the last sentence, ISaint.  In my experience, not many people in Below help anyone out of pity.  This place is no different from any of the urban sprawls in any of the cities I have been to.  Seattle, Berlin, Paris, Jo'burg, Phnom Penh, Rio, etc, are all about survival of the fittest and Below is no different.  Showing weakness is a good way to end up essence drained by some vampire, cut up for your organs, or used as some sort of guinea pig for whatever experiments a House is doing.  The Harlequinade is probably the most helpful of the groups down here, but even they do not act out of pity.  My recommendation is to put on a face of competence for them while still indicating that we need and deserve some help.  And by competence, I do not mean being over bold and rude.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-08-16/0825:35>

<<I don't intent us to appear weak - that would get us eaten indeed.
The Harlequinade has a pretty clear picture of our capacity to wreak havoc - as well as the Druggies and probably the rest of the market.
I'm talking about getting clear and precise information while not appearing to be too bright. After all, we don't want anyone to invest too much energy in trying to fool us. I prefer my enemies to half-ass their schemes - makes them a lot easier to uncover.
Because, no matter how competent we appear - those Below will not accept us any time soon as their equals. I hope to exploit this arrogance for our benefit.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-08-16/2326:42>

So, the Acrobats are friendlies here? and the Druggies want you guys dead, but got their mark removed by politics. That must make them pretty excited to see you... And Robyn, you said you have experience here, and that includes Vampires, organleggers, and weird experimentation by the Houses' crazies? And our side run will involve stirring all that up so everyone can see it to their benefits...

Deckard made an obvious dubious and pondering face.

I say, you get what you need out of the Mime and we move on to get our hand on the Artefact as soon as possible. I'd feel much better dealing with this no win situation once we're clear with the real reason we're doing all this.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-09-16/0059:16>

Robyn nods at Deckard's comments.  "Yes, I have experience here.  I live in Below about a third of my time when not on an expedition, and have for years.  The Harlequinade are not really from Below, but are Overworlders that come and go pretty much as they please.  It is said that they have some goal down here, but to my knowledge, they have never made that goal public knowledge.  I do know that they have not declared for one House or another yet still enjoy the protections of all the Houses.  If they are telling us something, it is probably important."

"But I do agree that we should complete our primary mission down here then plan out the second stage."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-09-16/0143:21>

Deckard leaned against the wall of the chamber they were all led into. He pointed to the top of his cheek in reference to Robyn's Snake Tattoo as he kept chatting with her.
That's a branding isn't it? I get it it should certainly stay hidden during our little band cover, but how many door can this open down here? Any relationaship with those two houses we need uniting?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-09-16/0329:03>

Robyn nods as she touches the mask that conceals her face.  "The hydra is the symbol of the Earl's House.  That I have been marked so indicates I have the favor of the Earl and the protection afforded to being part of the House.  This can open many doors down here and could indeed be useful in our secondary mission.  But whether or not I am allowed to help will depend on how much Isaint, Al, and Jackhammer let me.  The Earl's House is on good relations with the Iron Company, the Courts of the Holy, the Web Weavers, and the Night Symphony, although the last takes great pains to try to be on good terms with all of the Houses.  The Earl is on so so terms with House Laesal, the Makers, and House Valerian, although that relationship is a bit rocky just now because of my torture at the hands of one of the ranking leaders of that House.  The other Houses fall somewhere lower in favor."

"So yes, I might have an in with the Iron Company, or at least the ability to get us in the door.  And my relations with House Laesal are not as crap as yours, so I might be able to at least talk to them.  But like I said, all that depends on how much help our guys want or need."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-09-16/0927:37>

The harlequin leads the team into the lesser used corridors of the Market and soon the lighting becomes dimmer, and nonexistent in some areas.  Due to her enhancements, Robyn is not affected by the lack of light and moves confidently after the man.  She walks slowly enough that her ultrasound sensors can keep up with the changing topography and feeds her pictures to the rest, even painting a moving red line on the floor to show them where to go at various passage choices.  She also makes a copy of the route in her mind for when it is time to return.  Finally, the harlequin stops and nods at a small cavern passage.  "That is your route for now.  I was told to bring you this far.  Others of my troupe will meet you at about a hundred feet in.  You are safe from here.  I must congratulate you on keeping up.  We know that you are skilled in fighting your foes, but it appears that you have other talents as well."

Pressing forward into the dark cave, the team goes about exactly one hundred feet to encounter a dead end with a door.  One of the harlequins is standing at the door and he bows low before opening the door behind him for the group of adventurers.  A dimly lit room welcomes them.  A large table with twenty-four chairs occupies the center of the room, with a number of cots off to the left.  Several of the harlequins are gathered at the table, standing behind chairs, and others are scattered about the room.  The man behind the central chair of the table bows low and motions with his hands.  "Welcome, my friends.  I am sure that you have questions and we will try to answer some of them.  Unfortunately we are limited in our information, but will do the best we can.  Please sit.  We are preparing a meal and can eat and talk.  It is understood that you are on a mission of some urgency and we will not keep you longer than necessary."  He waits for the group to sit or decide to stand before sitting.  Robyn is more than glad to take a seat.  As she does, the apparent leader of the Harlequinade nods to her.  "Your skill with the cello is amazing.  I do not think I have heard those songs played on a cello before and now I wonder why not.  I bow to your skill."  He does indeed bow, as do the others at the table and there are several renditions of "hear, hear".  Robyn acknowledges the compliment and sits back in her seat, waiting for Isaint, Al, or Jackhammer to open the conversation.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-09-16/0939:16>

Al sits back and lights a cigarette, just waiting for it all to be over. Near as he can tell, they are here to fetch some sort of enchanted relic for the Johnson, then Choir Geezer tells them they they're supposed to play Cupid for a couple of lovestruck underdwellers, and he just about has all that juggled properly in his head, but then they're doing some sort of concert and now they're apparently in the mimes' secret treehouse.

If it gets them any further clues on their remaining unaccounted for co-workers, then he supposes it's for a good cause. But talking in poetry is not his thing, nor deciphering it, so he doesn't expect to say too much.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-09-16/0947:18>

"Thanks for the invitation. We are honored to meet you again." He looked around for their erstwhile escort: "I had hoped to meet Frisk again. I hope she is in good health... Anyway, I am glad to see that you haven't abandoned your mission Below." He cleared his throat
"I can't say I am surprised that you know about our arrival, but it would be nice to know how far the knowledge of our return has spread already. And before you say something about the obviousness of the whole affair - yes we are aware of that. This masquerade isn't primarily for Below but for the Underplex where we are actually headed.
So our main question would be - are you willing to help us once again to cross Below?
Our other motivation to return here are our missing comrades. As you know, shortly after you picked us up a few of our number became lost, but we were not able to search for them as we had taken responsibility for a family. Now we want to help those we can bring back or at least get closure for those we can't."

#288

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-09-16/1013:01>

The harlequin nods at ISaint's statement and implied question.  "We are indeed prepared to give you escort through the Market to your goal.  Frisk will be part of that escort.  Can you provide me with the names of those companions you seek information on and where you saw them last?  That would help us."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-10-16/0150:48>

Quote from: Mercy Merchant on <03-09-16/0927:37>

Please sit.  We are preparing a meal and can eat and talk.  It is understood that you are on a mission of some urgency and we will not keep you longer than necessary.

Deckard simply grinned all teeth out. Well at least they kept their overworld hospitality! He sat down and waited for the food to be served.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-10-16/0348:15>

"That is good to hear. But first may I introduce the new members of our team: This is Robyn our amazing cellist. This gentleman over there is called Half-Pint while this handsome fellow tends to listen up when someone says Rick.
Jackhammer and Al won't need any additional introduction.

On our previous team we had a Native American human called Smiley, an elven Mage with the handle Hallucination and a human drone rigger named Nitro. We were told that a woman called Mel was possessed by Shedim and subsequently disposed by you.

Can you confirm this?"
Isaint inquired.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-10-16/1302:28>

Deckard gave a nod after his introduction but interjected:
I actually go by Deckard, unless you too are like Angel Saints who speak with Gods, in this case you can call me Rick, or whatever else of your choosing really.. don't want to upset any Patrons or anything, you know.... though the handsome part was pretty accurate

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-10-16/1453:01>

Some bowls of a good stew are brought to the table and served to everyone, along with a light wine.  The harlequin takes a few bites before responding again to ISaint.  "Knowing that much, it should come as no surprise to you that we have an interest in your progress.  The loss of your companions as you walked below was noted and we spent some effort to locate them in case you returned.  You are informed correctly about your companion named Mel.  She did succumb to the Shedim in the catacombs, becoming one of them and worse.  Killing her was a blessing to both the person she had been and to those she was now a threat to.  Your companions Smiley and Hallucination were not strong enough to make it across the Shallows and were lost inside.  Early on, we saw their spirits flowing there but that horrible place will rip a soul to shreds within days if it is not protected by a body or great sorcery, and those two have been in there far too long.  Your friend Solo proved an unsuitable candidate for experimentation by House Laesal due to his dual faceted mind and he was released and escorted to the surface.  Nitro had some sort of relationship with your former guide, Goodnight.  He went off with her and her sister, Victoria.  All three have departed for somewhere unknown."

"Does this satisfy your need for information?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-10-16/1517:53>

Deckard have always spent his life surrounded by Runners. His dad was one, his mom was one, and it was no surprise the Deckard knew a lot about the shadow community. He had heard of the Amerindian naming himself Smiley. The man had worked most of his career in the UCAS before, just like him, making his way to London.
It always sadden the chaos mage to hear of the demise of fellow Awakens. And apparently Hallucination was a Mage too...

Well, it doesn't sound too good to be a Mage when hanging around you guys...



#35

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-10-16/1542:11>

The harlequin nods at Deckard.  "So it would seem.  And one might ask of the survival rate of the trix wizards and riggers that they have associated with.  Believe me when I say that we have looked at this phenomenon and believe it to be pure coincidence.  If you believe in coincidence."

He takes a bit of stew and turn to face the woman in the group.  "Robyn.  Cello.  Yes.  Well, Miss Lysander, your secret is safe with us.  I have listened to your playing in the Overworld and am greatly impressed.  Even more now that I have heard you playing music clearly not originally intended for the cello.  You may remove the mask if you wish to eat.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-11-16/1630:50>

"Hm, somewhat. I'd have hoped for better news. Just goes to show...
Well yes, we did have a relatively high attrition rate with our mages, but mainly because over 50% of us where magically active. Combine that with an unstable magical environment... I just wish I could do something for them."
Isaint took the accompanying cup and raised it for a toast:
"To absent friends and chummers."

#290

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-11-16/1802:08>

"Amen ta that, kemo sabe," muttered Al, drinking deeply.

He still couldn't believe he was back down here - and Alyce lived down here part of the time?

He'd come for two reasons - find his co-workers, and back Isaint and Jackhammer. It was mostly bad news on the former, but that was now one box ticked.

So from here on out it was just his mates - both old and new. He didn't care about the dingus, and he didn't care about Tristan and isolde. He'd back his co-workers as long as he had to, and stay in this freakshow not a moment longer.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-11-16/1952:02>

Robyn removes her mask and nods at ISaint as she raises her own cup.  "To absent friends and chummers.."  She sips her wine and asks, "You crossed the Shallows?  And the Catacombs?  And Goodnight was your guide?  I wonder why she took you there?  I don't want to second-guess her, and perhaps there was no better route from where you started, but those places are very dangerous, even for people who live down here, and are not often entered."

Robyn raises her bowl and says, "Many thanks to the cooks.  This is very good."  Lowering her bowl, she looks expectantly between ISaint and the Harlequin Master, waiting to see if there is more for them to talk about.  She feels the troupe has more to say, but is waiting to have the right questions asked.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <03-14-16/2234:08>

Jackhammer briefly considers that the soup might be poisoned, or worse, but then remembers that he's with what passes for good company in these parts. He mostly ignores the conversation, focusing on the food. Having eaten nothing but cheap delivery for a few weeks, it really seemed to fill a void. He paused, wondering if that was something else a shrink would have something to say about. He again conjured the mental image of punching a puny elven psychotherapologist, and for a moment the corner of his mouth twisted into something like a smile. He returned to his soup, looking at Al and Isaint 's expressions to confirm that he'd heard the news correctly. It was actually better than he'd figured, so he didn't let it eat him up. He'd already dealt with all that in the ring. He flexed his hand, looking down at his knuckles and remembering how the Troll's face felt for the knock-out blow. It actually really hurt. "This's good. Do you have more?" he asks, wiping some errant liquid from his chin with his sleeve.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-14-16/2258:08>

Almost before Jackhammer can finish the sentence, there is a second bowl of the soup in front of him and the first is whisked away.  Some fresh bread in baguette style is placed on the table in reach of those eating.  The Harlequins at the table seem content to let the team ask questions for a bit, then the Master looks about before focusing on ISaint, who seems to be the nominal leader of the group.  "Do you have any ideas for what you might need when you finish your primary mission?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <03-15-16/0842:20>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Harlequin’s Lair off Nightside Market, London Below]
 
Your meal is interrupted by the two laughing clowns who enter flanking a man, at least you think it’s a man, your eyes seem to slide past him.  He takes blandness to the point of ridiculousness and your senses want to refute his presence.  Even a glance into the other plane reveals very little information on the shadowy figure.
 
His voice is as soft and insignificant as the rest of him but the words grab your attention
 
“The Storyteller sent me with information on your task…” and he holds out a standard data chip for one of you to take…
 
***
 
#16
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-15-16/1144:01>

Isaint took the chip and tacitly handed it over to Robyn.
"Thanks for the delivery."

Isaint turned to their host: "Yeah actually. We'll need a neutral, defensible place where we can conduct a wedding.
I don't know which authorities down here are capable of overseeing something like this - I'm guessing there will be no minister or padre involved."

When he received the data from Robyn he added:
"Oh and it seems the wedding night probably won't result in any tangible proof for a consummation. Oh well, might as well get a bio-technician involved if they need to produce offspring that unites the houses."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-15-16/1341:46>

Al piped up. "Nope, yer right, no minister, no padre. They's a bunch godless hippies, after all. Instead ya need a Guide from the Courts o' the Holy - he, she, or it performs the ceremony. Then ya need three witnesses, each from a different one o' the thirteen houses, not necessarily from Flowers or Iron-whatever, but could be. But we can't jist pick any ol' neutral spot - they gotta seal the deal in one o' the holy sites they got down here. I can see yer shocked ta hear there even is such a thing, but actually they got several. Nothin' I read up on says ya need proof o' consummation, though - an' thank the saints fer that."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-16-16/0211:12>

Robyn collates and sends out the information on the chip, snorting at ISaint's jabs.  "Some of that could be funny, but it can be taken out of context.  And very good, Al.  Yes, a Guide from the Courts of the Holy would officiate.  I will try to compile a list of the holy sites for us to select from, but part of that decision might come from the participants, especially if they have their hearts set on one special place.  I could qualify as a witness as long as the Earl does not mind, and I hardly see him disagreeing with something the Old One wants to have happen.  So we would need to get two other witnesses.  Maybe they have a relative each that can do the honors."  Robyn slips the chip into a pocket after downloading the data.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-16-16/0553:06>

Isaint raised an eyebrow:
"Wow Al, seems like you have already researched the local wedding customs. I'm impressed. Almost as much that all those houses have holy sites they agree upon. This will likely be my first wedding where it's necesssar to lay down mines and perimeter defenses to keep the ceremony going.
Although I have to admit I once was hired to snipe paparazzi with gel rounds to guarantee a private reception for a certain starlet.

Regarding witnesses: I've got a feeling that this is the part where Al, Jackhammer and me will have to step up to atone for our sin of not presenting our belly when those Druggies went after the girl. The old guy did say that it had to be us three, so I would expect that's the reason."

#292

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-16-16/0956:20>

Robyn shakes her head.  "Possibly, but only if you get adopted into one of the Houses on the way.  I am not totally sure, but I don't think just saying you represent one of the houses would be enough.  Are you even willing to be adopted?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-16-16/1014:30>

"In one word: No. Besides, my parents probably wouldn't find that very funny.
Also I don't particular mind if I don't have to be a witness. Keeping an eye on the ceremony and the surroundings would be hard anyway.
For the moment that's probably secondary anyway as long as we don't have the location nailed down."
Isaint replied good natured.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <03-16-16/2133:28>

"Maybe," Jackhammer started to use her name, "Robyn", but then couldn't remember if he was supposed to be using another name, and figured Isaint might get on him about it, so he awkwardly continued, "she can be the wedding planner, while the rest of us handle our original business?" He suggests, looking at the others like the solution seemed obvious. "Not that you won't have other stuff to do, just that it seems like you could handle it." He looked down sheepishly at the remains of his second bowl, stirring it idly before diving back in.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-16-16/2332:09>

Robyn smiles at both men.  "It is not a real adoption.  But it does come with some responsibilities and is not meant to be taken lightly.  I have a home here and spend a lot of time down here, so it is a natural for me.  I am sure that you could go through the initiation, but not sure if you would want to.  And it usually takes more than a day to arrange.  I was considered on probation for over a year before being accepted and marked.  That was, oh, about twenty-six years or so ago now.  I never regretted it, but it is not a life for everyone.  As for the wedding planning, I rather think that most of that is going to be up to you, Jackhammer.  You, ISaint, and Al over there.  I will do my best to help you, to the limit of what I can, but the Old One already shot me down for trying to butt in earlier.  I bet that is some story to hear from those that lived it.  All I know is what came out of rumour central after it happened, and we all know the value of what comes out of RC, right?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-18-16/0325:48>

"Yeah... still no. Those who sell liberty for security usually end up with neither.
And wedding planning... what shadow runner doesn't dream about setting up a dream wedding in a war zone. Maybe we should film it all - I'm sure some reality TV outlet would love that. I'm kidding of course. We have enough attention as it is."

To Hecate he said:
"So yeah, if you could find out for us which holy place and which witnesses would be best, we'd appreciate it very much."

#294

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-18-16/1013:23>

Hecate nods.  "We will help as we can, within the limits of the play script and the director's notes.  By popular demand, we have extended our time down here for an extra run.  Seek us out when you are ready."  With that, the interview seems to be completed.  After a few last bites of the food, the harlequins provide an escort back to the level below where the equipment has already been loaded onto the mules.  After a short time to make sure that everything is as it should be, the harlequins simply disappear, leaving the team on its own again.  Robyn pulls up the map of the Market and draws a red line to show the route to get to the tunnel connection to the Underplex. 

The tunnel exit from the Market is unremarkable except for the flow of people through it.  This is not a major access point to the Underplex, but for those people who want to slum in Below before hitting the shops of the Underplex, this is the way to go.  The traffic is mostly one way, from the Market, as most of the people use one of the better known public routes to leave the center.  The exit from the Market is nothing special, just another cavern tunnel, although it is well lit and several signs along the way remind travelers that there is a check point at the other end and that certain items will be restricted or not permitted.  The list is long, consisting of just about every known weapon, but leaves a section at the bottom as a catchall in case anything has been left off the list.

The group catches up to the tail end of the line waiting to be processed through the check point and has plenty of time to be reminded of the proscribed list, as the AROs seem to be everywhere.  It is obvious that the management does not want anyone to say they did not see the list.  After twenty minutes waiting and shuffling forward, the team reaches the check point.  SINs are scanned and the equipment is given a rather perfunctory check.  Apparently, despite the signs, the bored guards here are no more alert than bored guards everywhere, and the band passes through the check point and into the Underplex.  It would be hard to describe a place so opposite of the chaos and frenzy of Nightshade Market as the Underplex is.  The first thing that strikes the person that has been in both is how clean and well lit the Underplex is.  One gets the feeling, reinforced by small signs everywhere, that spitting and littering are major offenses here.  Robyn turns to ISaint.  "Show's on, boss.  What next?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-18-16/1249:28>

Al noted with no small degree of consternation that, in addition to signs forbidding spitting and littering, there were numerous others declaring smoking out of bounds.

In response to which he immediately lit up a filterless Lucky Strike.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-18-16/1301:40>

"First we need a temporary base of operations - I don't want to leave the mules standing in the streets and get clamped for a parking infraction.
Since we are a band, I took the liberty of renting the back storage of that closed backery." He sent a map point to the team.

"Previous owners had a pest problem and it can't be used for food production until the city gives their ok. We have it for a week - the owner wouldn't accept any shorter duration. The place we need to hit is about 200 m to the north. We can scout the location while we are giving out flyers for our "concert""

Isaint produced another packet of paper.
"Retro style like the autographs. When we have all details - where the guards are, where Robyn can log in and what route to take - we can finalize our plans.

Right about now we could use the support of our mages with an improved invisibility spell, so we can move the cargo unobtrusively.

But for the moment - to the backery. The "concert" is scheduled two days after our heist and the distraction, so don't hope for another performance in the Plex, even if you enjoyed the last one."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-19-16/0252:55>

Robyn takes some of the flyers and laughs.  "Fame is sooooo fleeting down here.  On top of the world one day and forgotten the next.  We may have to go back to Greater Europe after this and nail down another gig.  Remember that party bar in Paris?  Tons of fun and boy do they throw a nice orgy.  And they seemed to enjoy our music, too.  Too bad Star Blaze is not here to see us now.  She would have been all over this place."

She laughs again and moves her mule towards the bakery.  "Let's find us a place to set up and I will see if I can jack in."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <03-20-16/2236:15>

Jackhammer bristles at being the one searched, generally feeling handled. Working a straight job with credentials put him on a much more comfortable side of things. But that was all gone now, ancient history by matrix standards. The thought of the abandoned bakery cheered him up though, as he'd used to train in an abandoned building, leaping on rusting catwalks and lifting and moving old equipment. Those were the good days, back when all he'd had to worry about was getting scolded for skipping his tutorsoft classes or the latest misdemeanor. The thought of getting in some pull-ups on the rafters was encouraging to him, so he kept on with the others, awkwardly pushing flyers into people's hands or chests and keeping his mouth shut.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-20-16/2259:30>

Robyn's sensors pick up that Jackhammer is not having a great time, especially as he seems to be the only one really searched.  She moves over to him as they walk to the bakery.  "Hey, do not let racial profiling get to you.  Can't be the first or last time.  I can remember being strip searched several times during this one trip to the Philippines back in '72.  I thought it was because I was a Keeb, but it was really all about the pictures they were taking of me naked.  Seems that Keebs are rare there, and pics of naked Keebs are even rarer.  Once I realized that, I gave them quite a show.  Can't let it get you down.  Say, if you like, maybe we can hit that racy club in Paris when this is over.  I am sure that you would enjoy yourself.  And from what I saw, there was no one there caring if anyone was trog or keeb.  All they wanted to do was dance and screw, and there was so much partner swapping that it was hard to keep track of who was with who.  Or who was in who, if you catch my drift.  Chin up and this will be past us soon enough."

Her genuine laugh carries and is infectious.  She wiggles her ass a bit suggestively at Jackhammer as she passes him.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-21-16/1758:39>

Finding the backery turned out not to be difficult at all - mainly because there was still a giant  pretzel mounted above the entry. A small AR tag informed the public, that the place was closed until further notice for violations of the health and safety code.
Isaint led the team to around the corner to the back entrance where delivery drones used to bring and receive cargo. The insides had been largely stripped of any machinery besides the massive ovens.
Turning on the lights revealed a disturbing amount of spider webs, hinting clearly to what kind of health violation had occurred here.
All in all the place provided more than enough space for the team.

"Alright. We can leave our gear here for the moment. We have over ten hours before the diversion starts and we need to get information on the resting place of this artifact.
I'm open for suggestions on how we are getting this information.

Robyn, do you think you can hack their host without being detected to gain a detailed floor plan - and ideally information on their security system?
Halfpint, do you have some spy drones you can sent their to get some life data?
Deckard, a little astral reconnoitering surely would come in handy regarding potential spirit guardians and watchers as well as barriers.
We others probably should take the opportunity to take a stroll around the location to scout the best exit routes.
Any other suggestions?"


#296

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-22-16/0128:25>

Robyn nods as she scans the room.  Picking a place, she cleans off some of the accumulated dust and debris and sits with her back to a wall.  "I am on it.  Someone going to stay and watch me and the equipment?  I will be of no use when I zone out to the real world."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <03-22-16/0847:23>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Abandoned Bakery, London Underplex]

If Walt Disney had been British instead of American, he might have engineered a creepy consumer hellhole that looked just like this. It’s not just that the floors are so clean you can eat off them, the engineered smiles of the businesses, the entirely too cheerful lighting or the omnipresent security; it is something deeper than that. It is the Seventh Wonder of the wageslave universe, the Vatican city of the megacorporate world. It is the West End Underplex. Our community surveillance rules have changed, so please update your PANs!

From the dubious safety of the bakery you are able to take a moments rest away from the wild crowds of Below and the more sedate and sparse crowds of wageslaves of the Underplex.  So far so good!

One rather precarious data tap into a power terminal (the only thing left in the bakery with connection to the Underplex main host) and Robyn is able to slope inside an even more plastic replica of the environment outside the shop.  Sculpting her persona icon to blend in with the sariamen visiting the host at this hour she is easily able to identify the surveillance measures along the route they need to take to get to the magazine…from there it is a matter of a deft touch to filter the feeds to show just what she wants…

There is a maze of service tunnels in the bowels of the Underplex between you and your prize but the mapsoft has been solid so far, now you just need to pick your window…

***

#17

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-22-16/0947:16>

As Robyn sits down to try to invade the host, the drone that she has left inside the building to watch over her is scouting the area near her.  Its feed shows her the power junction box and she smiles.  Standing she goes over to see if the thing is still on and connected.  She is a bit surprised to find that it is.  She walks over to the mule and pulls out a small data tap and returns to the power box.  She affixes the tap to the junction and connect directly to it before sitting down near it.  Her memory of the drone feeds as they walked to the bakery gives her the style of dress for her icon and she sculpts it to fit then descends to her "real world". 

The matrix is life itself some days and is usually far more interesting than the meat world.  Her avatar speeds along the trix strands right up to and inside the host itself.  The host is one of those that seems to exactly mirror its meat world counterpart, probably so as not to confuse those that come to shop here.  She waves her hand at the several helpful host servants that come to ask if she needs assistance, telling them that she is just looking around for now but that she will contact one of them when she finds it.  She walks through the stores and offices of the Underplex as if she belongs there with the other sariamen.  The security along the route to the magazine is easily identified.  Perhaps too easily.  She spends time to make sure that there is not something hidden away and spots a couple of devices not immediately visible.  Robyn cannot resist trying to intrude on one of the security devices, filtering through the feed.  She verifies that the mapsoft they have is correct before leaving the host and carefully jacking out.

She experiences the normal regret at leaving the trix but is otherwise unaffected.  She pulls up the map of the route and adds information about the locations and types of security devices she found on the route before focusing on her sensors to see who is about. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-22-16/1004:25>

While the others went about their business, Al had stuck near Robyn. Even if it hadn't been her, you couldn't let a co-worker be all exposed the way she would be when she jacked in.

While she did her digital work, he poked around the analog bakery, looking at what worked, or what still might have useful components, inventorying what was available in his head the way a seasoned chef might on a pantry walk-through. Never could know what might come in handy in a tight spot, and given enough raw materials and parts, there were few limits to the magic that could be done in a pinch.

Almost before he knew it, however, Robyn was back in tangible-land. It always surprised him how quickly these matrix jocks got their work done.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-22-16/2058:58>

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <03-18-16/1301:40>

Right about now we could use the support of our mages with an improved invisibility spell, so we can move the cargo unobtrusively.

Upon hearing the comment Deckard turned around himself looking for other people. Seeing no other Mage he interjected:
You really think I'm some sort of illusionist or what? Sorry pal, haven't learned to do any of that.

The Bakery was as good as they could get for a safe place and he made himself somewhat comfortable. He didn't like his gun to be hidden in the instrument case, but at least they were in the same room, and had managed t pass the scrutiny of the bored security.

He simply nodded at ISaint's request and shortly after Robyn entered the Matrix, Deckard let his Astral Form separate from his meat body. Trying to recall the layout he just looked at he moved from Areas to Areas to look for other Astral entities and security. Wards would stop him and he would not attempt to pass through just yet, keeping a low profile, even in the Astral Space. He could feel the link with his two spirits, ready to appear at the first call and that reassured him, but he kept his focus on identifying any possible opposition. 
 

#38

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-23-16/0059:54>

One of the advantages of having almost everything you need implanted is that you do not need to open your eyes to do anything.  Being blind just makes it easier because people do not expect you to open your eyes.  Robyn finishes her map notes and scans the bakery, noting that Al and Deckard have stayed.  The rest must be out looking around.  She decides to wait for the team to come back together to run the new data past them.  Standing, she draws a fag from pack she takes from one of her pockets and lights it before moving over to her mule.  She fusses a bit with the various compartments before softly calling out.  "You remember this thing from Cambodia, Al?  Still have it with me.  Glad I had it then and glad I have it now."  "She pauses to take a few drags on the cigarette.  "You've lost some weight.  You been alright?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-23-16/0517:24>

"Heh heh. BCV diet. You lost a good stone-an'-a-half yerself," he answered, possibly revealing how much attention he'd actually been paying her figure. "Hope it ain't down ta me hookin' ya back on those." He indicated her cigarette.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-23-16/0821:28>

Robyn's heart almost stops beating and she turns her head to Al.  She takes a drag on her cigarette to give her time to calm down.  "BCV?  Congratulations on being alive.  I am sure there is a story there."  She holds up her cigarette, "And these?  Maybe.  Not sure if they are to blame or not.  Certainly not going to blame it on you."  The lie came easily.  She was not about to tell him about how she had searched her mind over and over and over for the reasons he left, some rational and others irrational.  One of the more irrational ideas had been that he had thought she was a bit overweight so she had lost a bit over a stone in an attempt to be ready when he came back.  She nods to him, "Thank you for noticing, though.  Is it an improvement?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-23-16/0839:11>

In response to the BCV query, Al interjected, "Well, the first two is beer an' cigs." He didn't elaborate further, but listened to the rest of what she had to say.

Then she sprung her trap. Women. No improvement was of course the wrong answer. But improvement implied something had been lacking in the past. Couldn't win. Fortunately, his honest response cut throught the whole thing: "Six o' one... half a dozen...reckon ya looked perfect afore...but yer lookin' mighty tasty now too...course I ain't had the same chances ta make a proper inspection," he added with a leering grin. Then his face got slightly more serious. "Woman, reckon you could grow a hump on her back, have acid thrown on yer face, then gain two hunnerd pounds - ye'd still be the same Alyce what flustered an' consternated me."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-23-16/0849:46>

The tender moment was momentarily disturbed when Isaint returned.
"Good news everyone - I found a bakery that does not have currently a massive spider infestation. So I brought sandwiches. Oh, and I got a good look at our target. Leaving through the streets will be extremely difficult: Wide open plaza and only two directions to go.
Please tell me, you found a backdoor we can use."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-23-16/0951:06>

Robyn grins at Al before turning to ISaint.  "Not sure about back doors, but I have verified the route to the target location and have identified the security measures along the way.  I have overlaid the new information on the map I am sending you..................now.  I have listed the location and type of security devices I found.  I had no trouble entering the host this time, but that truth could change the next time.  The trix is like that.  Sleepy spiders this time, awake ones the next, that sort of thing."  She moves up to him, "Any chicken salad in that stack of sandwiches?"  Robyn reaches for one of the sandwiches offered and unwraps it before adding, "We can work out our access and a possible withdrawal if you like.  Will the diversion be enough to let us just go back the way we came?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-23-16/1429:54>

"Sure, I've got beef, tuna, turkey... ah there it is. Chicken." Pulling out a sandwich for himself, he nodded to the question:
"Ideally yes. At least that's what Mr. Johnson want's us to believe. But I'd be more comfortable if we could grab the thing without setting off any alarms. It's easier to be stealthy when no-one's looking for you.
To that effect I've been wondering: Since the artifact is allegedly in the cellar of this joint and this whole place is honey combed, could we maybe get into a parallel cellar room and cut our way inside? Mono-filament chainsaws are surprisingly effective at that sort of thing. That way we could avoid any innocent guards altogether."

#298

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-24-16/0055:42>

Robyn munches on her sandwich as she brings up a 3D image of the mapsoft in front of her.  She turns it around so that ISaint can see it from several angles.  "Hmmmm.  Well it does not appear that any of the main corridors abut the vault, but here is something."  She concentrates and expands part of the image while tossing the rest away.  "There is a large ventilation duct that runs right next to the vault.  They made sure that the vault is not connected to this, but this was probably put in before the idea of mono saws.  We can access the duct from this corridor and crawl along it to right here.  You might be able to cut through the wall and into the vault there.  Oooh, look."  Suddenly little beacons of light pop up on the 3D image floating in front of them.  "I have set the different sensors by type and effect.  See the key........here.  There are no special sensors in this duct because it no longer really goes anywhere.  We would need to bypass these four sensors to get to the duct, but should be home free after that.  Should be.  I caveat my statement by saying that there is always a small chance that I have missed a silent sensor.  Still, this ought to give you the best chance to get in and back out.  The duct is even big enough to get the prize through it.



CoF 94

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-24-16/0207:34>

Deckard's aura came back to his body but before he even opened his eyes, his nostrils started to move and a grin appeared on his placid face. His eyes finally opened and one of the sandwiches iSaint had presented went flying directly into the Mage's hand. He got up and opened his prize with excitement. Thanks ISaint.

Chewing on a bite, he reported his Astral projection. The place is rather isolated. There's a Watcher roaming around the underplex but not attached to our destination in particular. Some stores are warded but if the 'cellar' where the artifact is was warded, it has long vanished.

He observed with interest the map and plan Robyn was projected. He was amazed by of fast she was processing all that information. Her head was probably full of electronics.

I like that plan. Al, ISaint? what do you think?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-24-16/0356:14>

"Looks like a tight fit, but with levitation aid it should be doable - I guess you don't have a silencer spell in your repertoire? Oh well, seems like we'll have to make some noise elsewhere than. That will be a job for Pintsize and the distraction team.

Robyn, I assume you can spoof the sensors, otherwise I'll need the type. Pressure sensors we can beat by levitation, thermal is possible with the right armor - which I have - visual by my RP-cloak. It's MADs that would be hard to solve.

I'd distribute the team therefore like this: Deckard, Al and I go into the vent. Robyn, you and PIntsize do your thing in VR while Jackhammer keeps an eye on you - body guarding so to speak.

If anyone wants to do something else please say so."
Isaint asked.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-24-16/0832:50>

Al studied the 3D display carefully as the others talked. Ducts were always trickier than they seemed at first glance. This set-up could work, though - didn't seem to be in active use for heating, which could be a serious issue. And although duct systems as a rule had sections that tapered in width to help encourage air movement, there were no such bottlenecks in the parts they planned to access.

There were other potential hazards, though. "Can ya put one o' them mini-drones in there afore we commit? Like Isaint said, good to put eyes on the sensors, plus scope fer any that ain't wireless. Anything ya'll ain't got counters for, if Alyce can't handle it digitally, then I'll be able ta figure somethin' out mechanically. Then there's dust - especially disused ducts like this, can be literally toxic - but I think we all got counters fer inhalation vector as well, right?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-24-16/1003:40>

Halfpint has been sitting quietly nearby, almost overlooked in the exchange.  But now someone had asked a question he can answer.  "Yeah.  We can get a couple of the drones in there in advance.  Give the word and I will send two of my boys in.  Robyn offers up Misha for the job and the halfer nods.  Good.  I will throw in a second one.  Do you guys want me to deploy them now?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-24-16/1124:11>

"Yesterday would have been even better - yeah, get them in there, but keep an eye on stealth. Slow is safe and safe is fast because it gets results."
Isaint said with the tone of someone who has told this particular witticism a few times to often.

#300

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-25-16/0000:32>

The diminutive rigger nods.  "I will jump in and take one at a time myself.  That way I can more accurately control them."  Robyn dissolves the 3D image and returns to her spot against the wall.  "Let me help by controlling the sensors you need to pass.  Three of them are cameras only and should be easy to pass, but I can help with the other one.  It is a motion detector and might be sensitive enough to pick up even a drone that small.  I will contact you when I am in."  He goes back to his drone couch and gets in the cockpit before jacking into his network of drones, selecting one of the small micro drones and jumping into it, in effect becoming the drone.  He tests out the capabilities and sets his RCC to give him the best stealth capability he can get and moves off.  There is no denying the value of the micro drones.  Sure, they are not flashy like their bigger cousins, and carry no weapons.  But they have the ability to sneak almost anywhere and be undetected.  As small as an insect, they are easily confused with a fly or a mosquito and can go almost anywhere. 

The target corridors are no exception and he easily passes by the first two cameras on his way to the motion sensor.  At the same time, Robyn has drifted back to her world through the data tap and has bounded to the grid and her deployed antennae and other assets reduce the noise to zero effect.  She once again carves her avatar to be just like the others and is able to glide into the host past the sensors ahead of Halfpint and carefully penetrates the motion sensor.  She stops the halfer outside the limit of the sensor's range and manages to send a momentary spoof to the sensor brain.  She tells Halfpint he can move forward but should not tarry until he is well past the sensor.  Working together is certainly easier than going it alone and soon the drone is past the last sensor and in the duct.  Halfpint leaves the drone on watch at the opening looking out into the corridor and jumps into the other drone.  The process is repeated and soon both drones are in the duct.  He leaves the second one farther up the pipe and near where the team plans to cut into the vault.  Halfpint jumps back to his command drone and slowly comes back to the meat world.  Robyn joins him shortly afterward.

Halfpint thanks Robyn and looks at ISaint.  I think they are where they need to be.  I can easily control them from here so tell me if you think I need to move them."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <03-25-16/0125:59>

Deckard raised his hand. When he got teh attention of a few, he asked:
Before we get inside, can somebody remind me how we're planning on smuggling this artefact out? If I got all the Shenanigans right, we're gonna have to head back to Below right after the heist, so I take it we can't really go for an all-gun-blazing run out kind of tactic.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-25-16/0505:27>

"Depending on the crate, I'd just put it in another crate and either write Beer or AMP on its side. Because if our little sawing exercise goes right, no one will notice it's gone. In any case we'll transport it back here after the immediate action to regroup. If everything stays calm we can just stroll away with it. If not - well plan B does see us running to the checkpoint throwing a few gas grenades and flash bangs and vanishing into Below where the fuzz won't follow."

To Halfpint Isaint said: "Scout a bit further - I don't want to be surprised by a devil rat nest while I'm sawing through 30cm of concrete."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-25-16/1005:51>

Halfpint nods and smiles.  He does not even need to go back into the drone to command it for that task.  The feed shows the duct to be clear of any inhabitants.  He shakes his head, "The duct appears to be clear."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <03-27-16/2048:10>

Jackhammer initially resented being volunteered to stay back and "keep watch" while everyone else actually got to do the job, but the more he thought about it--squeezing into some tiny vent, patiently chainsawing his way through a concrete wall, then trying to drag a crate back through there, vs staying back and eating sandwiches with whatever was left of Robyn while she was at work--the more he could accept the small insult to his pride. He didn't smile, but soon found himself nodding with satisfaction, almost as if a song was playing in his head. Deckard was doing some mystical drek he didn't much care for, halfpint was playing drone, and Al was smoking. It all seemed right. Maybe this would be an easy job after all. And why not? They were all professionals. Well, at least the others were. And so was he, as far as they knew. Except with matrix files and mojo mind-reading tricks, they probably all knew he wasn't exactly a vet. Probably just too polite to say anything. The nodding stopped and he frowned, kicking at a chunk of debris. He claimed a sandwich and set it down, then set himself against a wall for hand-stand push-ups of an indeterminate number.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-27-16/2119:58>

Robyn finishes her sandwich as Jackhammer comes up to claim one.  She "watches" him as he heads off to a wall and she walks over to see if wants any company.  He moves to a handstand position against the wall before she gets there and starts doing pushups.  She goes to the wall, but gives him his privacy as she sits back down and reviews the data she has prepared for the others, trying to see what errors she might have made.  Despite her long resume, she still second-guesses herself a lot, which has often paid off in her finding errors or changing her interpretation of data.  So she lights up a fag and looks at it all again.  And again.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-28-16/0554:57>

"Alrighty, then," Al concluded, "No sensors besides the three cameras an' one motion sensor, all four accessible by Robyn. Nothin' ta worry about besides dust - an' I fer one will be on my own air in there. I done a lotta work in tight places like this, so ain't no worry fer me. Only question I got 'bout yer plan, bossman, is three people in a duct like that, gits a mite crazy. Hell, two's a crowd in a space where yer shimmyin' nose-ta-ass on yer elbows an' knees. Reckon I can handle a chainsaw well as the next feller. You come in as back-up, but a good distance behind me so as not ta crowd. Then we can keep Deckard on ghost patrol. That's how ol' Al sees it. Your say, natch, but if we go in with three, I sure as hell ain't bein' the middle guy."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-28-16/0911:23>

"Fine by me. One works, the other secures. Here's my saw by the way. Batteries are full. We'll need a few blankets to lay down the debris without creating a racket.
I too will wear my FBA.
If we do this right, the whole thing will be over today.

I'll call our contact and have them execute their distraction in three hours. You all try to get some rest. In Two hours we start to get into position."
 
#302

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-28-16/0940:35>

Robyn hears the men talking with part of her mutated brain, recording everything for later playback if she thinks she missed something.  The intent of the plan is quite clear, though, and seems executable.  She stands and walks over to her mule, where she opens a compartment and pulls out a rolled up sleeping bag.  Taking that back to the wall, she lays it out in a place free of debris and unrolls it to lie down on to try to get some rest, setting her internal chrono alarm for two hours.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-29-16/0801:40>

Al used the available time to build a light but sturdy trolley out of what he could scrounge from the abandoned bakery. It may look like a lot of junk to some, but everything he needs is here. He knew from experience that moving anything of any weight through a narrow space is a pain in the ass - with your weight on your elbows, holding anything in your hands was beyond awkward. The shape and surface may not be conducive to sliding. And carrying on one's back would likely be impossible, since there was probably very little overhead clearance beyond that necessary to move one's own body. So he fashioned a handy conveyance, simply cutting a sturdy board to the dimensions Robyn had shown them of the ducts, making sure to allow it to clear any corners, and affixing four wheels stolen from the bases of some dilapidated appliances, along with some lateral metal struts for reinforcement.

After oiling the wheels and wrapping them in felt to prevent undue noise, he chose a quiet corner and sat down to smoke.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-29-16/1039:11>

Robyn's rest is interrupted by a wet nose pushing against her face.  She reaches up and scratches the head of her Hell Hound and then sits up.  She hugs the beast then stands to walk to her mule, where she opens a large compartment and pulls out a slab of raw meat and a plastic bag.  She leads the hound to a corner of the abandoned structure and sits down before tossing the meat in front of Al, who just sits and looks between the food and its mistress until she gives the command to eat.  The meat does not last long.  Afterwards, she patiently waits for the dog to do its business, which she picks up in the odor eliminating plastic bag.  Smiling, she praises the huge animal and walks back to the mule to slide the bag into the compartment that already holds two like it from the walk to get here.

Robyn moves back to the sleeping bag and waits for ISaint to give the word to move out.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-30-16/0949:08>

Isaint had contacted their Johnson and forwarded the schedule. With an assurance that the other team would beginn their operation on time, he had reclined and allowed himself to nap for an hour. Afterward he took the time to watch technical videos on the (combat) use of monofilament chainsaws. A lot of them showed what not to do, but afterward he felt pretty confident that he would be able to use the saw without incident - even if he had to attack someone with it.

When it was time his Agent gave him a nudge: <<Time to get into position>>
Isaint grunted and mumbled "Thanks Susi."

"Alright lads and lady, time to do some work. Everyone knows their positions.
Al, Deckard with me, we'll take one of the mules with us."

The trip to the entrance was short - a small utility closet with an access to the maintenance tunnels - the locks disengaged just as Isaint was about to touch the handle <<Thanks Robyn. We'll climb the ladder down and change into our FBAs give us the sign when you are ready to disengage the sensors.>>
To Deckard he said: "Ok, you know the drill - keep an eye on the Astral and if possible summon us a nice support spirit. I'll leave Arthur with you."

Down the ladder he went, finding a small tunnel with dozens of pipes, electrical and fiber optic lines adorning the walls. Without wasting a second, Isaint began to disrobe and pulled the FBA from the backpack he had been carrying and in turn stashed his street gear. Since the room was severely confined he only carried his various tasers, pistol and revolver as well as the cestus. An AR map unfolded in front of his vision as he locked the helmet with the armor. <<Susi, Agent Cluster: Stealth mode - high alert - jammer at the ready - constant scanning.>>

Than he helped Al to get the transport contraption down there.

<<Alright, Robyn we are down the ladder - give us the go once you have taken care of the sensors.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-30-16/1007:44>

Robyn slips into the comfortable world of VR as soon as the men left.  Her avatar spring onto the host grid and enters as before, looking as if it belongs there.  She glides effortlessly through the racks of files and again finds herself in position to infiltrate the first camera sensor, waiting on the command to do so.  While waiting, Robyn takes some time to run another check on the passage and finds no hidden sensors in the section of tunnels the team will travel through.  Upon receiving ISaint's message, she slips into the camera sensor, guiding the device to be looking momentarily in another direction.  She sends the word to ISaint to proceed quickly to the area of the second camera, telling exactly where to stop as she repeats the process and sends them on to the motion detector.

This device is a bit trickier and she has to work a bit harder to get in.  Simply controlling the device will not work here so she quickly moves to the file she had detected earlier and edits it to show that no motion were detected during the time the team is moving past it.  The last sensor is another camera and is easily circumvented.  Once the team is at the vent duct, she slips out of all the sensors to stand watch.  Now it is up to ISaint, Al, and Deckard.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-30-16/1621:35>

Al was leading the way through the duct, his nose crudely taped shut against the dust. Unlike Isaint with his fully sealed get-up, he was wearing a yellowing wife-beater and fatigue trousers, beathing air from his internal supply. The trolley was in front of him, it's only load for now a monofilament chainsaw and some industrial throw-down cloths they'd liberated from a recycling station in a service area..

Before leaving the bakery, he'd stowed his shotgun and ammo in the hiding place he'd built into Robyn's cello case, shifted everything he might need - basically just his Caliban - from his jacket into the cargo pockets of his fatigues, and laid the leather bomber number beside the woman. She knew how important it was to him. Then he'd pulled his tool kit from the mule, stripped away the non-essentials and configured it into a workbelt, fastened it around his waist. It fit nicely around the big knife at the small of his back.

Now he was almost to the spot they'd chosen, the voice of Robyn's avatar having confirmed clearance of all the sensors. Once she confirmed he was in the right place, he stopped, laid out the blanket-like cloths, and started up the cutting tool.He concentrated on the work, knowing his coworkers had his back.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-30-16/2303:16>

Robyn senses Al as he puts his jacket down next to her.  "Hey, Al.  You come back for this, hear?  I have not found you after eight years just to lose you again."  She concentrates on watching the matrix for anything that would indicate the crew in the duct had been discovered, but so far nothing indicates a problem.  Likewise, Halfpint is keeping watch with the drones, looking for anything amiss.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-31-16/0455:52>

"Careful now Al", Isaint set another stone carefully down on rugs. "We don't want to break through before..."
He stopped as he received a message from his Agent. "Never mind, the distraction just went loud. Keep at it."

<<Team from Isaint: In case you haven't noticed, the other team with their extraction plot just went loud. Keep you heads down - we are close to breaking through.>>

#304

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <03-31-16/0800:57>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Ventilation Shaft, London Underplex]

Despite your precautions the cutting is uncomfortably loud but with Robyn watching the matrix, Halfpint monitoring the meat world and Deckard watching the astral you are fairly confident that you will get sufficient warning if things are about to go sour.  With the distraction happening at the other side of the Underplex hopefully any interested eyes are looking the other direction anyway…

With a hiss of stale escaping air you break through into the magazine and it doesn’t take long for you to widen a gap enough to take a look through and eventually wriggle through into the long abandoned space.  You are in the arm of the beast, behind you a large sealed blast door that is slowly succumbing to the depredations of time.  The beams of your lights play across the dust hazed air revealing the octagonal chamber beyond.  Moving forwards into the room you can see six further, no less impressive, blast doors in respective walls.  The final wall is made up of a computer terminal that has long since given up the ghost.

Your target should be behind door three according to Mr J’s information…

***

#18

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <03-31-16/0832:45>

Peering into the dusty chamber was like going back in time. It reminded Al of a day when hiding underground could protect you from most weapons. And the computer was reminiscent of the sort of dinosaur he used to salvage from scrapyards nd tinker with back on the mountain.

Pouring himself easily through the hole, he found door number three and began a careful examination for security or locking devices.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <03-31-16/1010:11>

Halfpint's security drones outside the building quickly pick up the sight of people moving away from the area of the distraction, some running.  Security forces are being drawn that way, making the possibility of exfiltration that much easier.  He maneuvers one of the drones to keep tabs on the disturbance from a distance so it does not get caught up in what is likely to be a security sweep of that area of the Underplex.  For her part, Robyn is maintaining watch in the host for any sign that the disturbance might cause someone to check out areas not directly involved.  Deckard is standing in a blind spot for sensor coverage and the those inside the bakery should be alright as well.  That leaves the vault. 

Robyn sends her avatar into the vault to seek out any security systems and is surprised by the antiquity of everything there.  The place seems to have been forgotten by everyone.  The computer and security doors have aged badly and it does not seem like any maintenance, routine or otherwise, has been done here for years.  She easily slips into the door and disables what would have been a state of the art alarm system when it was built but is now mostly junk a basic hacker could compromise.  However, Robyn has not been in this business for decades by assuming that everything is as it seems and she digs deeper, looking for something newer.  And finds it.  She sends a quick message out.  >>Vault Team.  Robyn.  Hold your places, boys.  Someone has added a security trigger to the door in question.  Let me check it out.<<  She deftly marks the trigger and looks at it closely, determining the purpose and method of activation.  Even though it is newer than the rest of the things in the vault, it is still pretty basic compared to the sophisticated alarms available today.  It take only seconds before she has bypassed the trigger, rendering the door only so much dead weight.  >>OK.  Alarm gone.  You should be good to cut through the door.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <03-31-16/1233:32>

"Hold back for a moment Al. I just want to take a look into the astral to make sure we haven't awoken something. Also I think we should widen our escape route before we open up a potential can of worms."
Isaint concentrated and opened his third eye to take a look at the astral plain. He trusted Rick to do his job, but checking again couldn't hurt...

[spoiler]
Astral Perception (http://orokos.com/roll/387663): 8d6t5 2 [8d6t5=2, 5, 1, 4, 5, 2, 1, 3]

[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-01-16/0843:44>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Eurowars Magazine, London Underplex]

This place is dead, and has been for a long time, only your auras paint a pale glow on the astral.  Ignoring the other five doors you apply your tools to door three and with a shriek of mono edge on rusting metal you are able to slice through the now disabled locking mechanisms and render the heavy blast door openable…

Heaving the three hundred mill thick hatch open your lights immediately illuminate the single green military crate in the centre of the long chamber beyond, as you play them around you realise with a shock that there are also bodies in here…they are in full hazmat suits and judging by the dust layer they have been in here for some time.  There are three by the hatch as if they’d been clawing at it, another is about half way down sitting against the wall…a rust brown stain behind the body mars the otherwise grey paint and the hand is clutching a heavy pistol…

***

#19

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-01-16/1457:53>

"Well, I have the distinct feeling that our Johnson left out a significant detail regarding this artifact. I think it would be wise not to touch it directly."
Isaint shot some photos of the scene and sent them to the team.
<<We have the object - probably - but the display suggests whoever locked this in here thought the persons carrying there should not leave. I have no idea if  they did this to prevent spreading knowledge or some form of communicable effect like a disease. Regardless, we'll handle it with the utmost care.>>

Remembering the lessons Rick had given him, Isaint concentrated and touched the spell fetish he carried.

[spoiler]
Spell casting Levitate Force 6 (http://orokos.com/roll/387938): 7d6t5 2 [7d6t5=3, 4, 2, 5, 6, 3, 4]
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-01-16/1703:20>

Al was just spitting on his palms to pick the thing up and put it on the trolley when Isaint warned him off and started his hocus pocus.

It gave him a moment to light a cigarette and take in the grisly scene. Away from the dense concentration of dust in the ducts, he didn't see any danger in going off his internal air - whatever the hell was down here, these men's hazmat suits hadn't helped them, so his little cyber gizmo wasn't going to be much use.

"Well, here's what I reckon - whatever done transpired here, it were quick an' it were balls out terrifyin'. Rational men locked ferever inna vault might eventually decide ta eat a bullet, but they don't waste they last hours scratchin' at a door like that with they fingernails. They were desperate beyond thinkin' ta git out, and do it lickety split. Hell, if they'd been stuck in here any length o' time, they'd o' stripped out that hot MOP gear afore long. But since I ain't exactly eager fer my coworkers ta face the same fate, couldn't hurt ta learn more."

He bent down to look at the fingertips of the men by the door - the more wear and tear on the gloves, the longer they would have been clawing at it. Then he stood up and started looking at the ground - if no one had been in here all this time, any sign should be well preserved. He quickly found indications of the men having entered. He next looked to see if he could tell whether anyone had left - sure, they could have been double-crossed, but he wasn't ruling out the possibility that something inside the room had pulled the door shut on them. With that thought, he also looked at the lock to see if it would automatically activate on the door being shut.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-02-16/1310:15>

Robyn slips a message to the others.  >>Are there any markings on the crates or the bodies?  Open the suits and see if you can find IDs or wallets or anything I can use to help refine a matrix search for this thing.  A date of some kind would be helpful.<<  While waiting for the information from the team, Robyn starts spooling a matrix search for anything that might help identify the device.  She is looking for any pre-crash rumors or stories of what might have happened here.  She sends a second message.  >>Just to let you guys know, I would consider this thing to be at least non-public knowledge and a good search would take at least a half hour.  If they actively hid any information on this, it could take half a day or longer.  Not sure we have that time.  I might be able to fire off a question to my friends, but the more specifics I can provide them the better.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-02-16/1354:52>

<<Roger.>>

While Al looked around, Isaint shot some more photos of the dead man and their gear. While he did so, he noticed a bullet hole in the side of the chest. Quickly he searched his gear and produced a sensor tag. Hesitating a moment, he applied the tag to the bullet hole and shoved it inside.
<<Life feed from inside the chest on its way to you. Sorry, only normal camera, but I'll try to shine a light through the hole, so maybe you can get something from that. In any case we'll have to move this thing out. The distraction won't last and whatever else we do, we can't leave this thing here now that we have disturbed it's obscurity. Maybe someone in Below can help us clarify what it is. We can discuss the details once we are back at the base.>>

"Ok Al, have you found something else? My gas mask tells me, that there was practically no oxygen inside this room until we opened it. Let's get this thing outside."

And with that he applied his will and carefully levitated the box out of the vault.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-02-16/1419:20>

Robyn examines the feed from ISaint's camera as much as possible, but it's ability to send useful data is limited by the available light, which is precious little.  The stills he transmits are better, but offer little in the way of useful information.  She tries to refine what she can see of the interior of the box.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-02-16/1449:14>

After looking carefully at the door, the ground inside and out, and the men's gloves, Al picks up the one weapon he sees in the room and checks the clip. Five shots. One into the crate. He found the other shots scattered around. None into the other men - or into anyone else that was still here...

He answered Isaint: "Yeah, suffocation sounds good. They was poundin', not scratchin', which ain't so crazy...if they know they's someone outside the room that might could open the door for 'em. So yer double-cross idear's soundin' better an' better...with this one feller preferrin' a quick end ta asphyxiatin'..." Al thought back to the endless hours and days he'd spent fighting for breath on that freighter in '70, and felt for all for of these guys.

"But who was he shootin' at afore he offed hisself? The joker what ducked out an' shut 'em in?"

He thought about the hole in the crate, and the fact that these men had never removed their suits througout their ordeal. Thought of switching back to internal air, but figured if there was any danger he'd had it already.

"That fancy gas mask o' yer's tell ya if they's anything partickalarly non-oxygen-like seepin' outta this here crate? Or fillin' this room?" he asked as he moved with Isaint and the floating box back toward the duct, wondering if they were even going to need his nifty little trolley.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-03-16/0441:22>

"I think Deckard can help us there. He is trained in Psychometrie.
So far my suit hasn't alerted me to anything like this - but that doesn't mean much"
Isaint spoke slower than usual since he had to concentrate to keep the spell going.
"But no matter what, I really have a bad feeling about the whole thing. Yet a job is a job. Let's make sure it works out."

With that Isaint climbed back into the duct, the box always in viewing distance.

#308

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-03-16/0921:10>

Halfpint maneuvers the drones to keep visual contact with the team in the duct so Robyn knows when they are moving again.  She is still trying to make out the stuff inside the box but the light is just too poor to allow the sensor inside to see anything.  At the halfer's warning, she again positions herself and slips into the first camera sensor to subtly alter its visual arc in preparation for the team to pass by unseen and will repeat her actions on the other sensors as well, allowing the team comes to exfiltrate the tunnel system..

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-04-16/0836:11>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Near the Eurowars Magazine, London Underplex]

As your team make their cautious way back towards the duct entry Robyn and Halfpint are almost simultaneously aware of a threat…two skimmer drones flying in tandem in the vicinity of the service tunnels you are using for your exfil…they are broadcasting Underplex Maintenance IDs but it would seem unusual for such small surveillance drones to operate as a pair…no doubt it is a response to the brewing altercation at the other end of the mall but that doesn’t lessen the risk of them detecting your team…

***

#20

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-04-16/0935:37>

Robyn quickly sends a message to the team.>>Company coming.  Two skimmer drones headed up the tunnel.  They will see you.  We can try to target them but that would give us away here.  Recommending Halfpint sacrifice a drone by having one of the two with you go forward and attract their attention and lead them away.  Halfpint says these are skimmers and are too small for more than sensors.  Orders?<<

Halfpint is already maneuvering one of the Fly-Spys into position. On command he will jump in and broadcast the location of the drone in an attempt to divert attention from the tunnel and lead the skimmers on a chase.  Robyn locks in on the pair, ready to try to take control if both drones do not follow the decoy.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-04-16/1009:14>

Dammit, they were just in sight of the grate they'd come in through - so close. Crawling backwards was a bitch, but they reversed back around the last corner, so that if anything peered in the grate they'd be out of sight.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-04-16/1414:19>

'Shit'
<<Acknowledged. Try your luck with the drones, but I fear that only one will pursue. Get some marks on those drones and be prepared to edit their camera files on the fly if you can. I sure hope you have the Fork program in your repertoire. Otherwise I'll just have to shoot them before they see us.>>
"Al, do you happen to have some expanding foam in your tool box? If you can fill the gaps and put some dust over it, it might fool the drones sensors into not noticing our incision."

True to his word, he fished the Guardian from its holster and attached a silencer. It would be tricky to shoot two small flying drones within the spann of half a second, but he had done it before - only about a month ago actually...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <04-04-16/1656:14>

Deckard knew all too well that more often than not, teams were hiring him for astral overwatch. Forget that he could defy gravity, summon powerful elements and ghosts from other worlds, and heck, even make it rain! All they wanted was for him to look up for astral trouble, like a minimum wage security man; though with a much better pay. Well, Deckard hated overwatch. Probably because he loved the thrill of action and danger, maybe because he didn't like to be bored. Let face it, in spite of what the trids could make people believe, powerful spirit or elemental sentries were pretty rare, more often than not, astral overwatch were pretty uneventful.

His only problem was that he knew all too well that when things DID happen, it was trouble, like major trouble. So he often tried to convince himself he was like the last rampart to his team's imminent death... to keep focused on a somewhat boring job.

He could also simply ask one of his two bound spirits to do the job for him, but if he found it boring, there was no reason why those powerful entities would not find it boring too.   

And so he overwatched, and overwatched, on the look out for the watchers even other wagemages after the distraction had struck, feeling pretty lonely, waiting for his companions to bring back the coveted artifact and curious to what was transpiring in the magazine.

#42

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-04-16/2332:18>

Halfpint slides into his small drone and sends it out of the duct and up the tunnel a short distance.  From this point he will keep the drone silent until and if the skimmers go into the duct.  If these are looking for something, they may stick to the tunnel, but if they slide off into the duct, he is ready to take hid drone loud and try to draw off the skimmer interest as if anything important is further up the tunnel.  Robyn is also waiting for the same thing.  She is prepped to try to take control of one or both skimmers and resets her primary programs to be Virtual Machine, Sneak, Exploit, Encryption, Smoke and Mirrors 2, and Armor.  Robyn would prefer that the skimmer simply bypass the duct without her having to act. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-05-16/1006:57>

Robyn contacts Deckard.  >>You are in the path of a pair of skimmer drones.  I can help you avoid them by guiding you away, if you like.  Halfpint is keeping me informed of their locations on my map and I can move you around like a chess piece.  Are you ready?<<

She is already scanning ahead of where Deckard is, looking for the next sensor she can infiltrate to keep Deckard hidden.  The passive sensors are so much easier to get control of than the drones that are controlled by someone.  She has three picked out on his route and will slide into them as needed.

>>If you are ready, please go to your left for about sixty feet.  I will tell you when it is safe to go further.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-05-16/1141:51>

Listening in, Al rasps <<Don't wanna be crammed in here if they zero in on Rick - let us know when they's past our exit, an' one or both of us'll get ready ta back 'im up.>>

Looking back at Isaint as best he can, he asks, "Things go south, what's the play? Leave the dingus here an' take care o' business, or leave one of us ta babysit it?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-05-16/1445:40>

"I don't like this. It's too much of a coincidence. I'm thinking there was a leak and someone is looking for us to relieve us of the loot. Leaving it behind or in the care of only one of us is asking for trouble - or at least more than we'll have if we protect it as a group. Which reminds me..."
<<Team, but especially Jackhammer: It might sound paranoid, but the appearance of those two drones could mean someone is preparing to move against us trying to take the loot from us. Which means we have to evacuate ASAP. Get our gear ready to go. Hopefully, whoever is after us doesn't have easy access to Below.
@Robyn: If you can, start hacking both skimmers and edit their sensor feed. We have to get out of here before our potential opponent can move more of his pieces into position.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-05-16/1909:18>

Robyn and Halfpint confer then the drone in front of the skimmers pings loudly as if it were talking to something.  The reaction form the skimmers is almost instantaneous, with both of them picking up on the drone’s transmission to nowhere.  The Fly-Spy has a head start, but he keeps the speed down as if the drone is just looking for some thing.  Robyn gives commands to Deckard that allow him to be just out of sensor range as the skimmers go after the talking drone, trying to get close enough to detect it and perhaps intercept the transmissions.  Robyn detects a ping on the transmission and successfully shunts it aside, but the drone would have been detected by the new player in the game.  After the skimmers race past the duct, Robyn gives the all-clear.  “You can move now.  Halfpint is leading the skimmers away and I will try to hack them momentarily to delay their return.  It will not be pretty and the owner will know someone is fragging with his drones.  If I am lucky and pick the one he is not jumped into, I can quickly disable it then try to force the other to turn off to avoid too many marks on it.  Deckard is safe and already moving back to the duct and should be there by the time you are.  Did anyone else receive some sort of probe a few seconds ago?  It did not touch me, but it may still know that someone is here and if your stuff is not protected, I would definitely recommend going cold and relying on message relay with someone who is.  ISaint, I think that would be you as the relayer.  I think we will be packing up here, but I will not leave the trix until you guys are out.  Don’t waste your breath, Al.”

As the skimmers go after Halfpint, Robyn analyzes the movement of the two drones, determining that one is clearly moving with greater precision than the other.  Once the chase has progressed down several tunnels from the duct, she strikes at the drone that seems to be on its own, quickly slamming a mark on it and grabbing control before making a hard turn and slamming it into a tunnel wall.  After the rather satisfying splat, she reaches out to get a mark on the second skimmer as its owner tries to shake her off.  She is not interested in finesse, but only in putting marks on the thing, gambling on the owner doing the right thing.  It is a struggle, and Robyn’s initial attacks are foiled, causing the blind Keeb to need to defend against damage coming back at her, but a micro drone, even a jumped-in drone using the defenses of its owner’s RCC, is not capable of defending against the power of a good deck and Robyn gets her second mark on the skimmer.  The remote pilot does the sensible thing and gives the command to reboot before she can get her third mark, shutting the drone down completely.  Robyn gives a command to Halfpint, who jumps into his defense drone in the bakery while giving control of the Fly-Spy to Robyn, who burns it out before leaving its husk on the ground about thirty feet from the downed skimmer.

Back in the bakery, Jackhammer is getting the mules ready to go.  Almost nothing was taken from them so the task is simple.  Robyn watches the feed from the Fly-Spy remaining with the inside team, ready to act as the team nears the sensors on the way out..  A quick message is sent.  >>Skimmers down.  Move as fast as possible and I will deal with the sensors on your way out.  Stay alert.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <04-06-16/0214:11>

Quote from: Mercy Merchant on <04-05-16/1006:57>

I can move you around like a chess piece.  Are you ready?

<<I guess if I'm gonna be called a piece of something it better be Chess. Lead the way honey.>>
Deckard followed Robyn's instructions.
When he heard the Skimmer were down, he quickly understood that their window of escape had shortened tremendously. He did not necessary approved of the blunt tactic the blind elf had used, but what was done was done. He was a man of instincts and adapting to the situation was his moto.

<<Let's go guy, won't be long before we get company.>>




#44

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-06-16/0227:02>

Robyn is satisfied.  One skimmer destroyed and the other rebooting is not a bad situation.  The skimmer will be back up but it is some distance from the team and will have to make its way back.  Also, the team's drone is now dead and cannot be located.  She suspects that the rigger and his possible decker companion will be looking for something that does not exist any longer, hopefully delaying them a bit as well.  There was no way to move the Fly-Spy out of range within the time it will take the skimmer to wake from its very short nap, so killing it seems to ne the best option.  If this is the only loss during the mission, she will consider it a good loss.

Still, it is not wise to assume that the opposition is less skilled so she keeps checking for any additional disturbances in the host as she waits for the team to navigate to the final sensor.  They are almost out into the street now and she can return to the meat world and get moving as soon as they are.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-06-16/1456:57>

"Ok Al, as soon as we are out of this duct we need your cart. Levitation is easier in here, but I really can't move it faster than walking pace. And we definitely want to move faster."

When they were back into the relative spacious tunnel and had navigated past the sensors, Isaint took a moment to reorient himself and pointed back to the ladder.
"Now comes the dangerous part. Whatever is inside this box - someone out there wants it. So if you don't mind, I'll stand watch while you strap it to our mule."

Isaint climbed up to where their mule hopefully was waiting for them and renewed the levitation spell to bring the box after him.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-06-16/1756:34>

Al was not exactly thrilled about touching the crate, but now wasn't the time to turn into an old woman. With a combination of trolley, mule, and Isaint's devilry, they made good time to the exfil point as the team regrouped. <<Alrighty toots, we come far enough they's no more need for ya ta play hero. Git yer ass over here.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-07-16/0008:56>

Robyn smiles as the message comes in from Al.  >>On the way.  Pulling back to meat space.  Are we to meet you there are at the tunnel back to Nightside?<<

She carefully slides out of VR to AR then to the meat world.  She helps Pistolgrip finish packing while Halfpint pulls overwatch.  It takes almost no time to be ready and begin the process of moving.  Robyn tapes up a few posters to the outside of the bakery announcing the cancellation of the concert due to Star becoming too ill to sing.  At that point, this part of the team sets out to rendezvous with the others.  She sends a quick message that they have left the bakery.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-07-16/0018:29>

Jackhammer spent the hours leading up to go time playing AR handball to work on his agility and reflexes. He stopped in the middle to eat the sandwich he'd left sitting nearby and took it slow from there, not wanting to have any disagreements with the food. Once he heard the others were leaving, he unpacked his bow and made sure it was strung tightly before putting on his quiver. He'd decided to wear his armored vest under his jacket, just in case he didn't have time to take it off again before they had to move out. He fit several knives onto the vest and belted his Ruger before he was satisfied. By that time, Isaint and Al had already crawled into a hole and Deckard and Robyn were off in la-la land. Halfpint looked to be asleep, but he could never tell if that was his way of working or not. But nobody looked to stressed and nothing was on fire thus far. The comm chatter seemed fine as well.

That is, until it wasn't. Suddenly there was talk of drones. Jackhammer didn't know much about drones, but he knew they were great for spying, and he didn't much like the idea of someone spying on them. Isaint's order came in and he hurriedly re-packed his bow and Ruger, but kept the vest and knives. He didn't mind just discarding them once they had to enter a more secure area, but he had a bad feeling he might need them down here.

A few minutes passed, and thanks to Robyn's intervention and Halfpint's drone tactics, no alarms had gone off. At least, none of the loud, blinky kind. There were magic and matrix versions that he would be simply unaware of. But one of his more specialized companions was sure to keep him in the loop. With no serious concerns, Jackhammer was happy to see Al and Isaint back with the package. "So... what is it?" He asked simply.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-07-16/0751:36>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Outside the Abandoned Bakery, London Underplex]

Pleased to be all together again and on your way out of this plastic jungle you are less pleased when a voice addresses you from across the plaza that the bakery sits on

“You lot…stay where you are, I am conducting a SIN registry check. Gatherings are restricted to four people in the event of an ongoing security incident…What’s that you’ve got on the drone?”

The figure is in civilian clothes but the bearing and posture scream plain clothes security…as to an incident, there isn’t anything evident and if the bit about gatherings were true it would likely have been in your briefing and certainly should be evident in the AROs that are still urging you to pursue the corporate dream and spend all your worldly goods in this urban nightmare…

***

#21

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-07-16/0851:44>

<<Keep walking and watching, this might be the first phase of an ambush>>
Without missing a beat Isaint called back: "Open your fragging eyes or start your AR. We are a band and we are late. And likewise those are our instruments. If you want our SINs go to the bakery and talk to our manager."
Isaint's hand was back under his coat and had found the grip of his taser. 

#312

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-07-16/0857:16>

Halfpint steps out of his drone and takes a couple of steps forward.  "Hey now, no need to be rude to the man.  Hello officer and good day to you.  Here is my SIN.  I am the manager of this musical group that is the band "Deadmen Walking".  Perhaps you have heard of us?  We were scheduled to play a concert here but our lead singer bailed on us.  She has done this before so we came down anyway, in the hope that she might show up, but she has not and we have had to cancel.  Here is the ARO for the concert promo, and all of our SINs.  Here is another of the concert date we have played in the past few months."  He sighs.  "It really was good while it lasted.  Anyway, that is the business.  We will find another singer and continue on.  May even come back here.  ]We put up a notice on the bakery about the cancellation.  These two drones are carrying all of our equipment."  He walks around the drones and points out amps, instruments, sets, and the like, including the box as an amp.  When done with the equipment list he turns back to the security officer, pulling a glossy photo of the band from an inside pocket.  "Not sure how we can help you, sir, but would you like an autographed still of the band?  We were headed out to the Nightside Market.  We gave a sort of impromptu concert there just to see how we sounded without Star, but it was not as good as with her.  I was thinking that we might go back and see if we can find a new lead singer there."  At this point, he is quite glad for all of the advance legwork that Robyn had done to get the band information up and public.  He hopes that it is good enough to pass inspection. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-07-16/0904:46>

A true Thespian, Roadie Al gave the guy the finger as he smoked and loitered near the cello case. But he wasn't watching the guy. He admired the little smurf's little brass pachinko balls, but he didn't think this suit was legit. His guess was an independent operator out to relieve them of the dingus they'd scored, and he was watching for any hint of the guy's back up. Itching to follow Isaint's order and keep moving, he gave a giddap to the mules the moment the mini-dwarf finished showing off all their fake gear.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-07-16/0916:39>

Isaint had a horrified sinking feeling in his stomach seeing Pintsize leave his tank and stopping to talk with them man who hadn't identified himself. The urge to pull free his rifle was overwhelming and he looked around for threats with focused concentration.

[spoiler]
Activate Focused Concentration (reduce penalties by 3)
Perception (Visual) w/wireless on vision enhancement (http://orokos.com/roll/389789): 18d6t5 5 [18d6t5=4, 2, 2, 4, 4, 1, 6, 6, 2, 5, 4, 6, 4, 4, 3, 5, 2, 2]
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-07-16/0928:23>

As usual, Robyn's "eyes" are her internal sensors and those of the drones.  She admires the way the halfer is using her material.  It is good to see the work used.  If the guy is legit, the stuff and patter should get them past the block, but there is always the chance that he is completely not legit.  Her senses pick up on everyone's increased breathing rates and she knows that everyone is ready for this to go south.  She reorganizes her deck and sends its agent as well as the one on her 'link out to search for silent icons in the area.  She scratches the Hell Hound's head and waits quietly.  The huge guardian has not alerted on any spirits in the area, which is a good sign.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-07-16/1230:58>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Outside the Abandoned Bakery, London Underplex]

“I’m sorry for the inconvenience but I am going to have to ask you to open the boxes.  I promise I won’t detain you long.  I have a security detail en-route to assist with the search but the quicker we can get through this the quicker they can get back to dealing with the fallout with the security incident on level two…”   

He seems sincerely apologetic but he may just be a good actor…?

***

#22

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-07-16/1326:17>

"Sure, here, have a look." Isaint went for the clasp of one of the boxes on the mule with his right hand. 'St. George lend me strength'
The moment he was sure that the man was focused on the box, he drew in a lightning fast motion his taser and shot two darts into the side of the man's neck.

[spoiler]
Simple Action: Attribute Boost AGI: Attribute Boost AGI (http://orokos.com/roll/389882): 7d6t5 1
Simple Action: Distract with Sleight of Hand (Nimble Fingers Power) Sleight of Hand (http://orokos.com/roll/389883): 13d6t5 4[13d6t5=5, 1, 3, 5, 4, 2, 5, 5, 1, 2, 4, 3, 4]
Free Action: Rapid Draw (http://orokos.com/roll/389884): 14d6t5 3 [14d6t5=2, 1, 3, 2, 3, 1, 3, 4, 6, 5, 4, 3, 5, 4]
Free Action: Vitals Shot (AGI 6 + Skill 8 - VS 4 + Laser Sight 1
Vitals Shot (Taser) (http://orokos.com/roll/389885): 13d6t5 3  [13d6t5=4, 4, 4, 3, 4, 2, 5, 2, 2, 6, 4, 6, 4]

Hopefully against a surprised Target. 14 S AP 5

If not, I spend Edge to reroll Edge (If necessary) (http://orokos.com/roll/389886): 10d6t5 1 [10d6t5=2, 1, 3, 6, 2, 3, 2, 3, 2, 2]

[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-07-16/1927:45>

The moment Isaint fired, Al started yelling, unable to believe the words grating out of his mouth. "Every'one move! Straight fer Below!"

The man went down twitching in a flurry of sparks and Al followed him to the ground. The moment the current stopped, he rifled the man's pockets and checked around his lapel and in his ears - snatching up anything that could be comms or ID of any kind, Looked for a weapon too. That would tell him something as well. 

Stuffing his booty into his pockets for later inspection, he rose, expecting to have to sprint after the rest of his coworkers. Unfortunately, they'd barely moved at all, the ponderous mule incapable of more than a quick walking pace. Trotting up and liberating his shotgun from the cello case, he strode along and looked at the crate with the dingus, wondering how fast they could move with it if they had to ditch the pack-drone. The he started manually shutting down everything electronic he'd taken from the fallen man.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-07-16/2051:02>

Jackhammer is so impressed by Isaint's speed that he almost doesn't catch the call to make a break for it. Luckily he can move much faster than the mule, so he isn't left behind by any measure. He notes Al rummaging through the guy's pockets and gives him a hand, looking for weapons in particular that he might be able to use for the moment. He looks up at Isaint almost unconsciously, looking for direction.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-07-16/2316:49>

Halfpint is caught off guard by the actions of his team, but recovers like the professional that he is.  He sprints back to his cocoon while calling up the roto drone to provides some sort of cover fire.  As he slides into the command drone, he pulls up all of the feeds form the surviving Fly-Spys to get a picture of the surrounding area.  Robyn monitors her agents, but lets them do their thing as she shakes her head.  The team had not trusted her or Al's work to hold up to scrutiny and that bothers her, but now is certainly not the time to dwell on that.  She is also tied in to the sensor feeds from the drones and scans them for anything out of the ordinary as she commands her mule to accelerate to a speed beyond what is usual for this type of drone.  The Hell Hound needs no command to be at her side as she walks quickly toward the Market and the security there.  The mule with the prize does not seem to have the same speed as hers does, but that fits into her plan perfectly.  Her ultrasound places her team perfectly and she knows where everyone is located.  So far, no one seems to be panicking, which is a good sign.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-08-16/0925:27>

The mule walked with enervating slowness - no chance to outrun the opposition like this.
"Rick, can you call up a spirit to infuse the drones with a movement boost? We are getting company and unless we want to content with wave after wave of black sheriffs, we have to be quicker than this."

Since Al had already liberated his shotgun, there wasn't much sense in keeping the no visible weapons rule up. With a quick action he withdrew the rifle from its hiding place. With a barely audible wirring noise it unfolded and went operational.
<<Susi: Black Ops Protocol - Jammer on maximum, Full Defense>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-09-16/0750:02>

Finally rounding the last corner, braced for whatever might be waiting at the security checkpoint, they saw a heavy shutter - two guards behind it - on its way down. Robyn confirmed at least two more guards approaching fast from a connecting corridor.

The door was coming down quick but Al didn't hesitate, muttering a plea to the voodoo gods to ease his passage as he dove for the narrowing aperture, shotgun in hand.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-09-16/1022:46>

Robyn alerts the others about the guards approaching and from where, but keeps moving forward.  Halfpint orients his machine gun-armed drone to cover the tunnel approach the guards will use and sends one of the quick Fly-Spys under the closing shutter after Al.  As she approaches the door, Robyn uses her radar to see through it and walks to the mule, reaching for her chainsaw.  >>I would rather cut the door than try to fight the guy that is probably controlling it.  If cutting it does not work, I can try to hack it.  You guys have the guns so I am the obvious choice of lumberjack here.  I would also not be surprised if they could flood the section with some sort of gas, so be prepared.<< 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-09-16/2215:24>

Jackhammer didn't even have to think as the gate came down. Where other people saw doors, he saw doorways. Where other people saw walls, he saw paper. Where other people saw steel and concrete, he saw a blank canvas waiting for his artistic touch. He rushed forward and brought back his arms, slamming all at once into the flimsy steel with unstoppable force. The gate tore from its track and flew backward, even as a prone Al slid to a stop nearby. It was still in the air by the time Jackhammer had raised up his fist to come down on a surprised guard.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-10-16/0155:35>

Robyn pauses in the act of starting the chainsaw as Jackhammer walks past her.  Her sensors pick up his action at the door as it flies away from its hinges.  Smiling, she replaces her saw and shuts the compartment.  Calling the Hell Hound to heel, she commands the drone to continue its forward movement to where the surprised guards were being dealt with by Al and Jackhammer.  She is impressed more and more by this team all the time.

Her enhanced senses picked up the noise seconds before all hell broke loose.  She was able to call out a warning before climbing aboard the large drone and calling her hound to her side just as the freeze foam filled the chamber.  It might have been worse, but the missing shutter allowed a good bit to run off, but it still rose to near waist high on the men.  She looked around for Halfpint and noticed that he was shut up in his cocoon, but that the drone was not moving.

Robyn sends a command to her deck agent to have it run an information check to see if this foam reacts in any way to extreme heat.  There should be something about this stuff on the public access matrix.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <04-10-16/1255:30>

Yes! Deckard thrilled on those situations. Chaos! Human behaviors, the unpredictable. In just a few seconds they went from hide-and-seek to get-the-hell-out!

Quote from: Jack_Spade link=topic=23154.msg4435U1#msg443541 date=1460121927

"Rick, can you call up a spirit to infuse the drones with a movement boost?

I'm on it already! Get ready for speed!

Feeling his presence on the Astral plane Deckard called back his bound spirit of man. The ghost like figure automatically understood Deckard mental request for speed, and that the Spirit could deliver. Everyone felt very light in their legs yet powerful. Even the Mule drone articulation seemed to start moving in an unnaturally manner, no longer constrained by its mechanical parts.

[spoiler]
1 service from bound spirit to use Movement on everyone including the mule drones (up to 8)
[/spoiler]


Witnessing Jackhammer's well deserved nickname, the freeze foam almost took them all by surprise. But with magically enhanced reaction, Deckard jumped on top on Robyn's drone and instantly throw a bunch of reagent material that burnt in the air as he cast a levitation spell on it, then again on the Mule with the Artifact strapped to it. Get on the Drone! he yelled at his companions, Isaint, lift the Pint.

[spoiler]
Using 8 reagents per cast

Levitate spell on Robyn's drone F6 (http://orokos.com/roll/390747): 20d6h5 9 Limit 8
Levitate spell on the Mule carrying artefact F6 (http://orokos.com/roll/390749): 20d6h5 8 Limit 8
Drain Resistance DV4 (http://orokos.com/roll/390750): 15d6h5 3
Drain Resistance DV4 (http://orokos.com/roll/390751): 15d6h5 5

1 stun
[/spoiler]

 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-10-16/1421:53>

Robyn is a professional and has experienced many things strange and both wonderful and horrible, but she is now amazed.  Enough so that she blurts out, "Holy fucking bloody hell!  Where have all you guys been my whole life?  What do I have to do or who do I have to kill to get you four to take me on as a partner?  I am almost ashamed of my drek skill set, but I think I can be useful enough to make coffee for you.  Ok, sorry for the outburst and I did not mean to interrupt or offend anyone, so back to business. Sorry."  She is smiling though as she settles down on the mule.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-10-16/1452:34>

[spoiler]
Gymnastics: Gymnastics (Dodge) (http://orokos.com/roll/390780): 13d6t5 6 [13d6t5=3, 5, 4, 6, 3, 1, 5, 3, 1, 6, 4, 5, 5]
 
Force 6 - Reckless Spellcasting
Levitate w/edge (http://orokos.com/roll/390775): 12d6t5 6 [12d6t5=6, 1, 4, 6, 2, 6, 4, 3, 5, 4, 5, 5]
Levitate w/edge reroll (http://orokos.com/roll/390776): 3d6t5 1 [3d6t5=1, 6, 1]
Levitate w/edge reroll (http://orokos.com/roll/390777): 1d6t5 0 [1d6t5=1]
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/390779): 11d6t5 4 [11d6t5=5, 1, 2, 5, 3, 1, 3, 3, 1, 6, 6]
No drain
1400kg at 6m per round

Nimble Fingers: Free action Load Gel Rounds

[/spoiler]

Isaint sensed the sizzling foam more than he heard. Dodging the spray he landed on the mule and found his feet just as Rick called out to him.
"Rise!" He felt the mana flow through him and the focus - more powerful than ever before, fueled by adrenaline and the guiding hand of his patron.

The drone and the connected gear rose up from the floor, pulling strings from the fast hardening adhesive foam and accelerating for the new formed opening.
Isaint found even time to insert non-lethal ammunition into his rifle.

#316

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-11-16/0629:57>

Al had rushed forward and thrown himself headlong and flat under the dropping security gate, twisting onto his back as he did so. Even as his nose brushed the falling metal as he passed under it, he tucked his feel laterally and the gate just scraped the soles of his Docs. His inertia carried him forward in a long slide, his age-worn leather jacket skimming across the mirror-polished mall floor, and before he'd come to a stop he'd put slugs into the gun-arms of the two stunned rent-a-cops.

Congratulating himself on his action-movie awesomeness, his eyes went wide as the gate was then ripped from his moorings and tossed through the space at the unfortunate security guards, a weird foam flowing through in its wake. No time to see the bleeding guards' fate, he scrambled backward to avoid both hazards.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-13-16/0829:17>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Almost to Below, London Underplex]

As you ride your floating contraptions towards the exit from the Underplex over a sea of white, rapidly hardening foam, you have a moment to muse on the phrase ‘fish in a barrel’ before the first guard appears at the far end of your route, only to be driven back by Isaint’s retort and the sudden flash of incandescent fire from the weapons grade laser he is currently sitting on!

They wise up after that and use their smartguns to fire sporadic shots after you whilst trying to avoid getting vapourised…

Almost clear, passing under the ruined security shutter when Robyn’s enhanced hearing picks up another subtle noise in the tumult…the sound of escaping gas from somewhere on the mule behind her…the one with the container and the dingus on it…

***

#23

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-13-16/0946:28>

Hearing is Robyn's most enhanced perception sense and she picks up the soft hiss of gas escaping from the mysterious box that was stowed on the other mule.  She immediately activates her gas mask and sends a message, >>Gas is coming from the treasure box.  Protect yourselves.<<  She gives a command and the giant hound next to her leaps from the mule, clearing the last of the foam to come to a stop near Al and Jackhammer.

Halfpint acknowledges the message and activates the environmental seal on his cocoon.  He orients his gun drone to give suppressive fire to the rear of the team.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-13-16/1006:22>

Al switches to internal air with a thought. The rest of the team has the guards on the other side of the foam keeping their heads down, he turns his attention to the abomidog. He knows these things can see spirits, and he watches its reaction.

Hopefully it really is just a gas, in which case the beast will need to keep a good distance, but he's pretty sure it won't respond to his commands.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-13-16/1155:39>

Jackhammer keeps his distance, remaining in the front of the group. He trusts the others to deal with any leaks as he focuses on making new leaks in any guards they come across. "I hope this isn't how we all die. Stupid gas."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-14-16/0148:28>

Robyn is confused by the Hell Hound's actions and response.  Her immediate thought is that the beast is being affected by the gas, although it leapt ahead of the mule and should ne safe from it's effects.  >>My hound is acting oddly and may have been affected by the gas.  Please do not try to interfere with him as I do not know what he might do.  Does anyone have any ideas on this matter?<<  She tries giving it the command to keep moving forward as the Mule advances.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-14-16/0247:31>

Isaint had stopped firing and the Lynx had just reached solid ground again. Now he found the time to talk again.
<<We need to find some shelter pronto. Than we'll have to open the box and seal whatever thing just has been punctured. Hopefully it's just Freon. But just in case, keep away from it for now.

Al, maybe you can improvise a seal with your foam stuff. No open flame near it till we know what it is.>>
While he sent this message, Isaint found time to don the helmet and engage the chemical seal. The air supply was quite low now, but at least the gasmask readout might tell him what they were dealing with.
<<Also keep your guard up - just because we left the mall cops behind doesn't mean we are safe.
Robyn, we need some place we can hole up. An abandoned side tunnel, a bunker or a church

Rick, just in case there is something arcane trying to escape: Let the mules walk again and lay a ward around the box>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-14-16/0256:56>

For Obidancer:

[spoiler]
Rick drops the two levitation spells:
Casts Mana Barrier F6 (http://orokos.com/roll/392194): 18d6t5 5 around the box
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/392195): 15d6t5 5
No Drain

[/spoiler]
Deckard replied: <<Already done. If this thing is magic it's contained for now. Can't do anything about the gas though.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-14-16/0640:01>

Once back on the ground, Robyn climbs off the Mule and walks quickly towards her hound, calling it to her as she gets farther away from the box.  She is already checking her maps of Nightside and finds what she is looking for.  >>Got one.  Got several to choose from, actually.  All quite close to the exit back to the Market.  There is also one just ahead in this tunnel, if you want to stop there.  I am leery of taking the box into the populated Market.<<  She sends out a map marked with the locations of the tunnels she has found.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-14-16/0747:13>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; The beginnings of Below, London Underplex]

Well the immediate threat of violence has passed, no doubt to be replaced by the inevitable confrontations of this benighted place…but Al is still acting strangely and belatedly Deckard realises that the mana barrier he has placed around the artefact is beginning to fail as something leeches at the mana…

A quick peak into the astral reveals that the air around the team is alive with energy, energy that is absorbing the active mana of the spell and settling on the astrally active foci, spells and in particular the hellhound…

Horror stories of Chicago and Ares fill the mind…

***

#24

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-14-16/0838:05>

The moment Deckard let the group know what he was seeing, Al thanked the voodoo gods he had no truck with magic. Knowing the devil could have no power over the righteous, he approached the crate to try to stop the leak.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-14-16/0855:07>

"Well, shit!" Isaint had himself taken a quick peek into the astral and quickly deactivated his focus again.
"Seems like we literally opened Pandora's Box."

With a quick command he sent his drone to assist Al, while he composed a message to their Johnson:
<<We have the package, but the transport box has a leek. Now it seems as if some manaphage like FAB III is escaping into the environment. We explicitly asked you if the contents are a weapon of mass destruction.
You come clean about this now, or we'll make sure this thing is buried again where no-one will find it.>>

#318

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-14-16/0936:01>

Still not knowing what is affecting her companion, Robyn begins to jog down the tunnel, sending a message as she goes.  >>I do not know why, but Al seems particularly nervous near that box.  I am taking him farther down the tunnel to see if distance makes a difference.  He is able to see astrally, so maybe someone can look at the box to see if anything is happening on the astral?  You have my maps and I will be in contact.  I am leaving one of my drones behind so I will know where you are.  Let me know if something happens and I will come straight away.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-14-16/1054:04>

Al pulled the crate open, squinted for a moment, then pulled a small cannister out of his bag.

"No more leak."

Admiring Robyn's concern for her animal, he spoke into his transceiver: <<Reckon it's safe ta come back.>>

Then, as the others joined him at the open crate, he started looking for any triggering mechanisms (besides bullets).

"Don't take no perfesser ta figure that there's the dingus," he said, pointing at the statuette. "An' if these is full o' anti-magic juice, well, ol' Al can't help but think they's here ta keep this thing contained. Blow they wads if Aku Aku here gits uppity."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-14-16/2351:11>

Jackhammer took the opportunity to grab his bow and Ruger since they were out of the more civilized world. He was down a few knives that he hadn't stopped to re-collect, but over all in good fighting shape. This was a lot more like what he'd always envisioned shadowrunners did, and it almost felt... right. Move fast, knock out toadies, watch out for the other guys, move again. His heart rate was up, and he liked it that way. This was much better than just another workout. He didn't really have any hint of the danger they might possibly be in from the actual package, although the other folks seemed a bit worked up. But magic and matrix was their job, and at the end of the day it was the meat world that was your real worry. And that's what he had covered.

He looked back over his shoulder to see if Robyn was maybe watching. Then he mentally kicked himself as he remembered she was blind and that's not how it works.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-16-16/0806:17>

"Ok guys and gal, bad news time: I've heard of stuff like this before. Magically active bacteria. Was invented to detect astral forms moving around and pose barriers to its passing. As far as I know there is a weaponized type that drains magic from dual natured things like Hellhound Al. Untreated it can kill its victims. That stuff was used in Chicago to kill bug spirits.
Good news is, it's not infectious, more like a parasite and can be killed with normal sterilization methods. The easiest way would be to find a mage that has the sterilization magic. Otherwise we'll need a decontamination shower with a lot of cleaning, so we don't contaminate the whole of Below.

I'm not yet sure it is in fact FAB III, but I have made a call to our Johnson to get confirmation.
Those things can be seen under UV light - sadly that is one spectrum my sensors are not covering.

Note please that I could be very wrong and its something else or even nastier."
Isaint grimased behind his helmet - he really wasn't keen on that cleaning action.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-16-16/1238:00>

Robyn immediately sets her deck agent to scanning the matrix for any information on this possible infection then sends out some messages.  The first is to Doctor Alfred Mallard, chief of surgery at London General Hospital.  She has worked with him numerous times and might be able to get someone at the hospital to tell what to do.

>>Doctor Mallard, by service animal has apparently been infected by some sort of disease that is attacking his dual nature.  I need information and perhaps help if I am to save him.  Can you please ask about the hospital to see if anyone there has any experience with this sort of thing?  I have been told that the infection might be something called FAB III, but I have no means of diagnosing that for sure, nor do I have any real knowledge of it.  Please help me save my companion.<<

The next is to the Old One.  >>Master.  It appears that we have fallen afoul of something designed to eat magic over time.  My Hell Hound seems to be especially vulnerable and I am afraid of losing him.  I have been told that a cleansing spell can fix us but that we are all now acting as some sort of carrier and that to move from the tunnel we are in would expose everyone in Below to what we have.  One of us says he believes the effects seem to indicate that we are affected by FAB III.  Do you know what this is?  Can you help me by sending someone who can cleanse us?  Please?<<

The third and fourth messages are to the Harlequinade and Doc Pax, again asking for help and information.  The performers seem to know a lot and Pax is the surgeon in Below that put Robyn back together.  She used some sort of awakened plant to heal the Keeb and maybe she has something that will help Al.

After sending the fourth message, Robyn crafts an ARO that she places as far as possible ahead and behind them to act as a warning that there is a serious contagious infection in the tunnel and telling people to stay away.  It also states that anyone with the ability to cast a magical cleansing would be well compensated for their help.

Robyn lets the team know what she has done.  "I have sent messages to London General, the Harlequins, a specialist doctor I know in Below, and to The Old One asking for information and help.  I have also placed AROs out in the tunnel ahead and behind us to warn others to stay away unless they can cast magical cleansing.  Now I am going to climb back on my Mule and go into VR space to see if there is someone in the Market who can help us.  There is an entire level devoted to magic and someone there might be able to help.  I will search the host directory and send out a warning and a plea."

Done, Robyn climbs back onto the drone and sinks into her world.  The host of the Market offers a mark and she slips in, going to the magic level.  Here she casts about for a directory and begins wandering through the stalls carrying an ARO that indicates that she is looking for someone to help with some sort of sterilization magic.  She has some hits from people who are initially interested but back off when told that FAB III might be involved.  Finally, a woman signals to her from one of the stalls, asking for details.  Robyn explains that she and five other people, plus a Hell Hound seem to have contracted a parasite that strongly resembles FAB III in its effects.  She is concerned with the possibility of passing this parasite on to others in Nightside and so the team is currently holed up in the access tunnel to the Underplex.  The woman nods and tells Robyn that this is very serious indeed.  She pauses to think and Robyn chimes in with an offer to pay what is needed for help, be it money or favors, at which the woman smiles and says that her price would include both and that Robyn must pay the price.  Leary but a bit desperate, Robyn agrees and the woman tells her to wait, disappearing into the stall and talking to someone before returning with a satchel.  She introduces herself as Zhao Lin and promises to be at the tunnel as quickly as she can, and that she will bring a friend, telling Robyn that the friend's price is included in hers.  Robyn's avatar nods and slips from the host back to AR and then the meat world.

Robyn wakes up and lets her companions know what is happening.  "I have contracted with a pair of mages from the Market to help us.  They will be here shortly.  I do have a question, though.  Is the equipment also affected as a carrier, or just us and my companion?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-16-16/1403:50>

"Well, I'll allow that's some comfort, an' much appurciated. But I say we start movin' in their direction. Gits us help faster. More'n that, we now got a few people - which has some tendency to become a lot more people - knowin' we's jist sittin' here. That plus havin' the dingus puts a double target on our back. We need ta git motorvatin'. The leak's plugged, an' it ain't like we gon' go round wet-kissin' the passersby."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-16-16/1412:31>

Robyn shakes her head.  "I do not think that moving right now is a good idea, Al.  We do not know what the effective range is of this stuff we have.  Getting closer to the Market risks passing this on to others.  My advice is to remain here and wait.  They will not be long.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-16-16/1456:19>

"Well, can't say I don't respect yer expert opinion. Good Lord knows I do. But doin' a major heist an' blastin' our way through a security checkpoint an' then settin' up camp with our score within' spittin' distance o' the scene o' the crime seems a mite counteriintuitive ta ol' Al. An' all fer the sake of what may or damn well may not happen to a bunch o' other folks, well, that don't count much weighed against what I am damned sure will happen ta me an' mine. An' I ain't sayin' dive headlong into the damn market, I jist said let's at least git mobile in that direction. So that's my vote, which ain't crap since this ain't no democracy."

He turned and looked at Isaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-16-16/1703:48>

"I wished you hadn't done that.
Alerting five different places at once is a sure fire way to get an information leak. Us being a bio-hazard is exactly the kind of excuse a certain house would need to sent the market against us.

Please take down those AROs at once and pray that no-one has seen them yet. We can't outrun our opposition with those mules.

We need to keep moving and get some more distance to the Underplex. The mall cops might not follow us, but I'm sure they have specialists on retainer that will."
Isaint had begun to arm his drone by draping it in his normal armor + helmet.

#320

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-17-16/0331:57>

"ISaint, with all respect, I do not think that you are right.  We are like a fragging plague.  The Johnson gave us poor intel, no surprise there, but we cannot risk innocent lives by walking around down here like nothing happened.  If you are correct in thinking this is FAB III and its effects are as you described, we could do irreparable damage here and even kill many people that rely on being dual natured or mainly astral.  It is unconscionable to not warn people of the hazard of approaching us, to include the specialists that are quite probably coming up behind us.  The ARO back that way may cause them to slow down enough to at least determine what FAB III is.  If they ask, they might not follow us in but simply try to keep us from returning while sending security forces to the major exits, and that would serve to rile the locals of the LCZ.  And of the people I talked to, most already live down here and are not likely to tell anyone about us.  Three are friends and the mages seem genuinely interested in helping us.  As for Doctor Mallard, he is a close associate and I only mentioned my companion, not the rest of us.  I am a surgeon and cannot support risking lives unnecessarily.  Please give the mages a bit of time to get here and use their magic.  I beg you."

Just then, Sasha lets her know that the two mages have entered the tunnel and are approaching.  Robyn continues.  "And I have just been notified that the mages have entered the tunnel and should be here soon.  Can we wait that long and reinforce our rear to keep any surprises down?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-17-16/0828:57>

Isaint sighed.
"I understand where you are coming from.
I could now say that we already have contaminated a wide area and there is nothing we can do about it, or that we have a duty to prevent us being captured and this artifact from falling into the wrong hands. Hell I could even say, that there are a lot of bad things down here that could be improved by FAB III, but that would all not be the truth.

The fact is that my prime interest lies in protecting this group - plain and simple.

I've accepted a long time ago that I can't save everyone - but I can do my damn best to prevent those under my care to come to harm. And that includes on occasion doing harm to other people.
All in all I'm more worried about the health of your Al than that of any random dual natured person we might meet in the tunnels.

You might not have noticed it, but we just steamrolled two innocent guards - which might not have been necessary if we just had kept going instead of indulging that nosy guy with our broken cover.

You and the rest of us are accessories to manslaughter or murder - not to mention that we just broke into a government military weapons cash, stole a highly forbidden bio-weapon and already released it inside inhabited area. Giving a few infected a reason to wash themselves if they come too close to us is merely an afterthought compared to that.

I hope you understand why I am more than a bit worried that you are erecting fucking sign posts to our whereabouts."

At the mention of the two mages he said: "If they are that close we can move towards them as well. I pray that this is really FAB III and not something even nastier that is immune against magic sterilization. In that case you'd have doomed two innocents because you didn't wait for confirmation from our Johnson."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-17-16/1438:46>

Robyn faces to where ISaint is standing and nods, giving the commands to have her Mule move forward down the tunnel as she says,  "What are you talking about?  That "indulging the nosy guy" took all of a few seconds and we were pretty much moving the entire time.  You never gave the cover a chance to work.  A lot of effort went into creating that and you tossed it at the first chance.  Al's smuggling compartments and the background we did on the band were well laid and might have got us past that guy, but you did not have the patience to let that part of the plan work.  It is completely unlikely that that man would have recognized the device as anything other than what we told him it was.  It has been buried in a vault away from any eyes for years and he might very well have accepted that it was an amp for the stage equipment.  Sure the ruse might not have worked, but you did not trust your team enough to even try it.  And pushing past him from the start would have raised the alarm in any case and the guards would still have been in the way."

"I am incredibly worried about Al and Al and the rest of us.  Even though I and Halfpint are apparently not directly at risk, we are carriers.  I have too many friends to wish the sort of harm you have described on any of them.  The warning signs are meant to discourage others from either following us or coming upon us by accident.  They should work, if only for a while.  And the Johnson has already lied to us or is not knowledgeable of this thing in the first place.  By the time we would have had any word from the rather useless man, we might have infected all of Below.  "

The two mages approach the team moving towards them, having already taken the precaution of cleansing themselves.  Robyn jumps down from the Mule and introduces them around as they begin the task of sterilizing the team and its equipment.  Halfpint keeps the drones oriented so that they can discourage anyone who might have ignored the warning signs from following them from getting too close.  When the mages have completed the process, Robyn holds her breath as they check to see if the infection is still present or if it has been dealt with for now.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-17-16/1514:56>

"As you can see, even seconds can be crucial - especially with closing gates.
Our cover was shot the moment someone sent those drones after us - or do you believe that was a random patrol? The man knew exactly what he was looking for, he even indicated at the crate. This has nothing to do with not trusting the team. I seized the initiative before the man could discard his own cover for something more dangerous.

Trust me, I've been in enough situations like this: Taking a potential threat out before it can become real is almost always preferable to relying on a fraying disguise.

I know you loved this cover, but it is the nature of the beast that you have to discard the lovingly crafted artwork like a used condom when you are finished." Isaint stopped to pick a bit of dried freeze foam from his shoe.
"Our Johnson has not yet answered - I'd prefer to let him explain himself before jumping to conclusions.

Also I'd suggest to table this discussion until later when we are somewhere with a semblance of safety - criticizing each other won't change what has happened but might very well kill us through distraction.

And please, please shut those AROs down. You are putting us at risk more than those manaphages ."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-17-16/1711:30>

Robyn takes the ARO signs down and discards them.  "I agree that we have differing opinions and that the best time to discuss them is not now.  The AROs are down.  Let's hope that the mages have done well by us."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-18-16/0845:26>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; The beginnings of Below, London Underplex]

The two mages bumble about the tunnels waving sprigs of burning rosemary and looking woefully inadequate for dealing with one of the worst bio weapons created in modern times.  For those looking on in the astral however their mojo is undeniable and the manaphage does seem to be reducing in the face of the onslaught of their magics…

Isaint receives a terse text back from the Johnson

<<FABIII? That wasn’t part of my intel. Get rid of it and then we can talk again, I still want the artefact but I didn’t ask for that! Right now you are the worst bio-terrorists of the last five years, you might want to factor that in to your planning. Get shot of it without making the news and I will add fifty percent to your fee>>

This is nothing compared with the voice that fills Robyn’s mind from nowhere and everywhere at once

~Foolish Girl! How dare your kind bring that filth in to my domain! It is Isaint and Guthrie that are at the heart of this…the Pattern warps around them and the seers tremble…get you gone, do not think to come here until you are clean~ and as abruptly it is gone, leaving a cold emptiness.

From the Professor there is no response as yet, but that is probably due to the lateness of the hour…

From Hecate and the Harelquinade a wryly amused message returns

<<This is a story to be told! I will send dancers to record your tale, perhaps you may even live to see the end of it>>

***

#25

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-18-16/0918:17>

Isaint groaned inwardly as he received this information. With a mental flick, he shared the info with the team.
<<Ok Robyn, I admit our Johnson is an idiot - but at least a generous one.

Now I have a question for you all: Should we destroy the FAB III or keep it in a secure container.

I happen to have acquired a few hard case briefcases with extremely good seals. Make no mistake: This is a potent weapon that doesn't endanger non-magical beings, but will give even the strongest mage pause.

If done right this could be a powerful insurance for our safety. Likewise it could get us killed by a furious mob or a counter-terrorist team.

Not to mention that this stuff is really worth a lot to the right buyer.

And just to be clear: I am neutral on the topic - even though once upon a time I'd have given my right arm for this stuff when I was confronted with a cellar full of zombie children Shedim.>>

#323

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-18-16/1009:45>

Robyn does not hesitate to respond to ISaint's question.  >>I am very much not neutral in this.  I vote to destroy it.  I am not magical in any way, but I have friends that are and this is a terrible thing.  No good can come of it.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-18-16/1015:10>

"Have ta say I'm with the lady. Ya say that there garbage burns? Then i say burn it an' burn it hot. I'll grant it's worth a pretty penny. An' I'll grant it'd come in handy someday against a nest o' demons or whatnot. More'n all that, I'll grant whoever put it in that case did so fer a damn good reason - namely ta contain Mr. Easter Island when he reveals his true nature as Lord Tssogotth o' the Eldar Realms....

"But the other side o' the coin is, we don't rightly know how ta use it, it's a danger to us as much as any enemies, an' we still gotta navigate the dingus outta the Undermaze an' then come back an' play weddin' planner. None o' that gon' go too well if we got some sorta all-House Omega Order on our heads fer wipin' out all they sorcerors an' peepin' wizards...temptin' as that thought might be...

"So I reckon we burn it."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-18-16/1021:31>

Halfpint pops in with his two nuyen.  >>Make that three of us, then.  I agree that this could be useful under certain circumstances, but Al is correct in saying we should destroy it.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-18-16/1113:23>

Isaint looked at Rick, but the mage just shrugged: "I know exactly what you mean - that business in France with the child killing blood mage vampire...
I'd say we hide it somewhere secure, just in case we need it later. Just imagine if that was exactly the thing we need and we destroyed it all."


"That's three to one so far." Isaint looked at Jackhammer: "Any compelling argument from your side to keep it?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-18-16/1826:00>

Jackhammer was a bit surprised to be asked for his opinion as opposed to his fists. He realized he hadn't even been thinking about it since he figured the others would just handle it themselves. So he paused, running a hand through his hair. "Uh..." He looked at Robyn, not wanting to disagree, and at Al and Halfpint, all strongly convinced of the same opinion. But here was Isaint, the guy most like him in the group, and he was saying that this stuff might just be the only thing standing between them and some super-mages or vampires or something. And Al had said something about demons. Jackhammer wasn't sure how magic worked really, and didn't like to waste a lot of time thinking about it either. But one thing he did get was weapons--the kind of thing a lot of people like to try to control or destroy, but at the end of the day, the only thing that can keep you alive sometimes. He sure wouldn't like anyone trying to take his guns or his bow away. But against some things in the world, guns and bows didn't do a damn thing. So, he figured, this was his supernatural magic bullet. So he made up his mind and spoke.

"Is the stuff dangerous? Sure. Maybe not as much to me as to some other people, but still dangerous. I don't want you to think that makes me take it less seriously. There's plenty of things in this world that can kill me. I have some of them stashed in that cello case right now. So yeah, this stuff is dangerous. But we can't make the whole world a safe place. Best we can do is keep ourselves dangerous enough to be able to handle the other dangers in the world. So I'll tell you what--soon as you all melt down your guns and your foci and your drones, I'll vote to burn these containers."

He then turned to Isaint and said without a hint of flexibility, "But we sure as hell aren't just going to pawn it. You said it yourself--you don't sell guns. This is no different."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-19-16/0054:10>

Robyn nods.  "It appears that we all have fairly good reasons for our votes.  I appreciate not being dismissed out of hand for being the decker.  I guess as team leader, the final call is yours, ISaint."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-19-16/0329:18>

Isaint nodded: "3 to 2 with me abstaining. So we will destroy the stuff. But I don't feel confident to just set fire to the bags or open the valve into an open flame - stuff could escape. I suggest we hide the stuff for now at a non-descript place and come back with a vat of alcohol we can funnel the stuff into. Afterwards we can set it aflame.

Or does anyone have a better solution - mind you I'd like to avoid giving the stuff to anyone else to dispose of. My trust in metahumanity only stretches so far..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-19-16/1511:43>

"Well, if we ain't destroyin' it yet, then keepin' it's safer'n hidin' it. Only way someone gits it is if we's dead, which ain't on ol' Al's agenda. We take it with us ta make delivery o' the dingus, then dispose of it safely topside afore returnin' ta play the Newlywed Game."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-19-16/1543:31>

Jackhammer nods. At least they'd be keeping it for now. The loss wasn't too serious--he'd only known it existed for the past few minutes. Easy come, easy go. And at least it wouldn't be one of those things that would come back to haunt him. The others had their say of it, so it was off of his conscience. But for now, nothing changed, and they needed to get moving. "Are we clean? Ready to move? I'm starting to miss the smog."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-20-16/0045:36>

After conferring with the mages, Robyn leaves them with her comm code to coordinate the payment for their service.  She turns to the others and says, "I am told that the parasite infestation is gone and that we may proceed."  She bends over to rub the head of her hound as she commands her Mule to begin moving again.  She sends a note out to The Old One.  >>I beg your pardon, great leader.  We were not aware that we had the FAB III device until it went off.  We immediately took precautions to prevent any infection of Below.  My message to you was to alert you of the presence of this horrible device.  I would have done my best to keep the device from impacting below.  I arranged for two wizards to cleanse us and we have managed to turn the device off.  I am sorry that you thought me foolish and stupid.<<

As they walk, Robyn says, "So, is the plan now to return to the Overworld and deliver the artifact then return?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-20-16/0339:46>

Isaint waited until the mages where out of sight and checked on the astral for any watchers then he retrieved one of his hard cases and began to fill the pockets and webs of his armor with most of it's contents, the rest wandered into the backpack on his drone. Once done, he carefully picked up the two bio-weapon containers and locked them inside the secure case.
"Ok, that should do it. But I still say we should not take the stuff with us - after all that was the reason it was released in the first place. Not to mention, that we can expect some very hostile reaction if the info gets somehow out that we still have it with us. Considering the efficiency of the spy network of this Old Guy I say, we find a hiding place somewhere in these tunnels and come back for it with the equipment to destroy it.

And yes, it's best we also get rid of this statue sooner than later - although I have a feeling that not knowing what it is and does might bite us in the ass. Just in case I'll add a stealth tag under it's chin. We can decide if we tell the Johnson about it when we meet him."

Isaint looked around:

[spoiler]Intuition+Stealth (http://orokos.com/roll/394162): 13d6t5 5  [13d6t5=2, 5, 3, 3, 3, 1, 1, 6, 1, 3, 6, 6, 6]
[/spoiler]

"There, I've found the perfect hiding place for the FABIII." He took the case and proceeded hide it behind some lose bricks. After he was done, there was no obvious trace that anything had been changed.

#326

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-20-16/0926:39>

Robyn tosses out a suggestion, "We could always give it to the Harlequins to watch over it.  And what about leaving one of our micro drones down the tunnel a bit to keep an eye on it?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-20-16/0934:13>

"To reach the Harlequinade we'd have to carry the stuff into the heart of the market - which I want to avoid for the afore mentioned reasons. Also it would be tough to explain why we wanted to give a troupe of not-quite sane clowns a bio-weapon for safekeeping.
 
Leaving a microdrone is a good idea - provided you can protect it from discovery. We don't want to leave clues to the whereabouts."
Replied Isaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-20-16/2303:26>

Robyn nods.  "The harlequins were just a suggestion, but I can certainly see the wisdom of saying no to that.  I was planning on setting the drone a bit down the tunnel, so if it was discovered it would not lead to an automatic discovery.  I can not do that if you think the risk is too great.  Making it run silent would also help."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-21-16/0438:04>

"I'll trust you'll get that done nicely.
Now let's go before Jackhammer gets smog withdrawal."

Isaint dusted off his hands, slung the rifle on his back and went back towards the front of their little troupe.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-22-16/0746:32>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London Below]

As the group move out Robyn received a communication from the Old One which is considerably different in tone from the last mental assault…

<<Great leader? Peace, child. I am sorry, mention of that abomination angered me. I should have known that you would deal competently with it and I am glad you sought my guidance, my apologies again that I did not handle it better. Go with grace>>

With the FAB removed and hidden away the going feels lighter, even if the weight of the tanks was immaterial, but now there is a new issue as the artefact seems to have come alive in some way now that the proximity of the bacteria is no longer influencing it…there is a slowly rising background count as it somehow warps the manafield around it…damned if you do, damned if you don’t seems to be the course of this run…

[spoiler]Background count has increased to 2 around the artefact[/spoiler]

You are shortly pinged by two members of the Harlequinade as you head away from the Underplex and towards the nearest known exit, and it isn’t long before two of the lithe murder clowns dance in to view

The one from before, Satire, gives you a mocking bow and makes some obscure hand gestures but it is the other that speaks

“Well met travellers, we are told there is a tale to tell here…”

***

#26

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-22-16/0811:33>

Robyn is pleased that the Old One has communicated to her.  A brief smile flickers across her face at his words and she nods to herself.  She updates her map of the Market, setting a course for the closest exit.  She has been expecting the appearance of the harlequins ever since she sent that message out to them.  She sends a note to the team, >>They are responding to my call for information about FAB III. It will be common knowledge in the Market about how the mages cleansed us.  May I give that part of the tale to them but leave out what we did with the device?<<

Before an answer could come back, ISaint begins to spout poetry as if he were one of the actors himself, thoroughly impressing Robyn.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-22-16/0935:17>

Isaint inclined his head to answer Satire and Co.
"Drawn from the deepest dept below
we bring a tale of curse and woe
Through walls of silence, steel and stone
we cut a way to death's own throne

In darkness dead men's silent cries
surround the place the secret lies
a stone of power well protected
inside a chest with curse infected

But to foes betrayed we are
bringing with us morning star
Waiting for us - borrowed might
we depart not without a fight

Stray bullet found its mark
as we through shattered doors depart
Guardian plague is released
hound of fire is diseased

To men of power we are calling
else from grace we are falling
cleans the place we were fouling
and cures hellhound's haunting howling

Now to light we rush once more
bringing chest with deadly core
with plagues demise unbalanced
curses' power grows unchallenged

So here's our tale of dumb and dare
tell it to others who might care:
No good comes from stopping our run
for we will return when we are done"
 
<<Don't look so shocked. We knew they'd want a report. Hopefully that will be enough for them.>>

#329

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-24-16/2211:50>

Jackhammer finds himself terribly confused at the decision to leave the FAB stuff behind when it was almost certainly there for a reason. Sure enough, soon he begins to feel something, like a sound or pressure, almost like a faint memory of his head being underwater. He felt dulled, like he'd lost something, but he still wasn't sure what. Regardless, that statue had to go. He really didn't need it doing anything permanent to him. Although, with the way the Johnson was supposedly going to pay, some of that probably had to be for potential disability. But he wasn't going to let that happen if he could help it.

Suddenly Isaint is spouting poetry to murder clowns. Jackhammer shrugs and figures this is about as normal as anything else they've done together. He nudges Robyn, accidentally a bit too hard, but puts a hand on her shoulder to steady her as he speaks. "So, uh, good job with those magicians. I haven't felt that clean in months." As he reviews the statement in his head, he immediately regrets it.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-24-16/2244:45>

Robyn had moves off to the side to give ISaint plenty of room as he told the story, so she and Jackhammer are pretty much isolated for the moment.  She twists to face him after the man puts his hand on her shoulder, accidentally causing the hand to fall to her left breast, where it sits until he moves it.  If he moves it.  "Thank you, Jackhammer, but all I did was go ask them.  They have not yet told me what I will have to do for them in payment.  I just hope the favor is not too steep.  And, I do want to thank you for keeping me safe at the bakery.  I cannot do much for myself when I am in the matrix."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-25-16/1230:37>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London Below]

The mime Satire laughed uproariously, albeit silently, at Isaint’s poem and danced forward to praise him.  Her companion seemed more restrained, but no less amused

“Well, that was unexpected! But thank you, you have brightened an otherwise dull day! Hecate asked us to walk with you through Below, record your deeds, that will certainly make a good beginning!  I would advise you to avoid the Market for now though…someone from the Overworld has been talking to the Iron Company and they have been charged with apprehending a group matching your general descriptions…perhaps a little cosmetic adjustment is in order? Then you may wish to travel in two groups so that your numbers do not also match?”

***

#27

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <04-25-16/1346:29>

Jackhammer pulls his hand back, looking directly at where it had just been, then realizing what he was going he looked her in the eyes. Or in the glasses. Then he put his hand on his face. It was moments like this that he remembered why he kept to the bar scene.

At the suggestion of splitting the group, Jackhammer nods. "I'd been thinking of that myself. We could each take..." He pauses, remembering that Isaint doesn't like over-sharing, "...some of the stuff. Meet back later. If something did go wrong, the other half of the team could... fix it." Jackhammer scowled as he tried to make sure he didn't give anything away in that suggestion.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-25-16/1614:21>

From his spot off in the shadows, Al tore his eyes from Alyce and Jackhammer as his ears pricked up at the mention of splitting the party.

Hadn't these people seen any horror sims?

"Hey," he said without moving from the dark alcove he was sitting in, his face eerily lit by the tip of his cigarette, "I got a poem for y'all.

There once was a crew from old London town
Who took crazy advice from a naughty old clown.
They split up the team
But deception was a dream
And in two lonely groups they each one went down."

Then he got up and stepped over to face the mimes.

"No disrespect. Y'all done right by us more'n once. An' redoin' our looks is all well an' good. But as fer splittin' up, you gon' guarantee that gits us past the opposition? Cuz if not, sounds like we'd jist be makin' things easier for 'em. Especially since the package itself, that don't split up. Didn't someone once say somethin' about splittin' yer force when faced with a stronger opponent? Reckon I'm dead against it."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-25-16/1639:44>

Isaint thanked the two clowns, but nodded when Jackhammer and Al spoke:

"You are right Al. But so is Satire and Jackhammer.
I don't want to split the party, but I see the need to change our numbers as well.
Luckily, we can have it  both ways.

Rick, can you ask one of your spirits to do that concealing trick again on you, me, Half-Pint and his drone. The two mules we'll have to ditch for the moment. My anthro drone Arthur gets to wear my FBA and will carry the object on it's back. The rest of you will have to change your overall look - I can help you with that.

The concealed group will follow you in a discreet distance, so we'll be able to counter any ambush - especially since it will look to an astral observer as if we are the ones planning an ambush.

Robyn, would you be ok with leaving your hound in the care of the Harlequinade until we return? I fear we would have trouble to disguise him effectively.

Normally, I'd have us all be concealed, but the nature of the object makes that unfeasible."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-26-16/0052:48>

Robyn looks at ISaint then the others as she considers her response, her hand absently ruffing the Hell Hound's head.  "In effect, you are asking me to leave my service animal, my Mule, and my cello behind.  I can't say as I am very fond of that idea, no.  With few exceptions, and unless guarded, "ditching" things down here usually means never seeing them again.  Even less fond of the idea.  I would not wish to leave Al with anyone that does not have some sort of animal empathy and skill with animals, especially with Hell Hounds.  Without those advantages they could be at risk.  That would need to be determined before I would even try to have Al stay behind."  She looks to Satire and the other harlequin.  "Do you or others of your troupe have the skills and desire to take on the challenge of watching over my dear companion and our two Mule drones?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-26-16/0107:34>

"You don't have to leave your Cello behind. We can certainly take it with us - for example on Half Pint's  drone.
But the dog is a dead give away - that's the risk with having such a special critter.
And no, I won't leave you behind - even with your protective tattoo the risk is to big."
Isaint said apologetic but determined.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-26-16/0218:02>

Robyn nods, "I understand where you are coming from, and if you guys were always with me, I would not need him.  But my enemy Below likes to use spirits and I have no personal means of seeing them, much less doing anything to him, so Al here is my best chance, outside of hiring a mage to walk around with me.  I get your position, but I will not turn him loose and I will not just assume that I can foist him on the harlequins without them saying that they can handle him.  To do otherwise would be to risk him hurting or killing someone by accident.  So if they do not have the ability, or the desire, to take him, then I am afraid that we will need a plan C.  And what is your plan for the Mules?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-26-16/0842:33>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London Below]

The Harlequins confer silently with one another via AROs and gesture before the unnamed one speaks again

“Caring for a Hellhound is not something that we will take on, however we could bind him with magics such that he doesn’t appear to be an awakened Hound, even from the astral?  The cost for this service will be high and it is not something that Satire or I can do, but there is one of us who could.  Provided you don’t show him a mirror the hound will not know any difference…so what say you?  Is it worth it?”

***

#28

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-26-16/0939:41>

"This whole thing's jist gittin' more an' more complexicated. Reckon it's safe to assume yer price fer this hocus pocus is favors, which I suddenly find myself owin' one too many of down here. An' the more movin' parts, the less reliable ever'thin' gits. Now you suggested we avoid the Market, so if we's doin' that, why all the charades?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-26-16/0949:27>

Robyn looks at ISaint and the others  "I already owe an unknown debt for the service to cleanse us and you have already assumed another debt as well.  I do not wish to take on more at this time unless absolutely necessary.  I would strongly recommend that you leave me behind with the mules and let me walk out with them.  My usefulness in this is about over as you are nearly out.  I can monitor your progress by the micro drones and send you map updates on the go.  I have friends here and can perhaps walk for a time with the harlequins as an escort.  We can either meet at the Johnson's or I can wait down here for you to return.  In any case the separation would not be long."

"This is not an idle recommendation and it makes sense.  Please consider it.  I will be safe here until we meet again."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-26-16/0956:19>

"Now that's jist right back ta splittin' up again. Never a good idear an' considerable less so down here. Bossman, whyn't instead o' Deckard's demon hidin' you, it hides the dog? Hell, yer the master o' disguise anyhoo, right? Whatcha need hidin' fer?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-26-16/1007:47>

Robyn shakes her head.  "In my case it is not technically splitting up as I can still be with you as you move.  Really, just about the only thing missing is my ultrasound and radar sensors and I doubt that you will need much of tem as you leave.  I am not going to disappear, Al.  But I might be a liability to you right now.  At least here I am with friends who can help hide me until you return."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-26-16/1416:14>

"Robyn, I really, really don't want us to split up. Iris is or was as experienced as you with Below and we haven't heard or seen from her since she parted ways with us. Almost all those who split off from the main group the last time we went here I never saw again.
I can't force you to stay with us, but I implore you to do so.

And yes, another favor might be one to many.
The problem I see is that those looking for us have a rough description as it seems. The easiest way to identify us are the mules and the hell hound, followed by the Steel Lynx.

We can be concealed on the physical plain, but anyone who assenses us will notice the second group - and the aura of a hell hound is somewhat distinct since it's dual natured.

If you had learned this Invisibility spell, Rick...

Ah, but wait, you can make that Manabarrier, right?"

Deckard nodded with a questioning look.

"Ok, than we change the grouping: Rick, Robyn, Dog-Al and Half Pint are going concealed. In addition, Rick casts a mana barrier around the group on the astral. That should prevent anyone from assensing you from the astral - not the best protection, but all we have at the moment.

Human-Al, Jackhammer and I, as well as Arthur disguise ourselves.

The two mules we give into the custody of the Harlequinade - that shouldn't be to much of a request. Once we have delivered the object we can collect them. For now they are too slow for a quick escape.

This isn't ideal, but it's in my opinion the best solution from a bunch of bad ones."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-27-16/0038:04>

Robyn nods.  "I can live with that solution but I feel badly about leaving the Mules, and will be back for mine.  And I find the comparison between me and Iris, or any of the others, to be disquieting.  I am not any of them and will not just disappear.  You are not that lucky."  She gives marks to the harlequins for the Mules and takes a minute to talk to hers in Russian, making sure it knows that she will be back.  She then walks to where Deckard is standing and asks, "So, what is the procedure here?  Do I need to do anything special?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-28-16/0541:58>

"No." Rick answered, "Just keep all inside a five meter radius and keep an eye on your pup so he doesn't freak out when his astral senses are blocked by the barrier."
A command later, the small group became very hard to notice - not exactly invisible, but if you didn't consciously look out for them your eyes would just slip away and forget about them.

Isaint nodded at Jackhammer and Al: "Ok, now to make you all look a bit less like yourself. Al, here is a comb and my lined coat. I've set it to display the motley motive of the Harlequinade. Jackhammer, you can have my RP-cloak with a likewise setting - but please be careful both of you. Those two pieces are expensive to replace."

When he was satisfied with the result, he donned his helmet and mask and made sure everything was as ready as it could be, he made sure Arthur had the Assault Shotgun out and ready and he his rifle.
"Ok, let's get this thing out. Thank you Satire and your companion for your help. We'll meet up with you later."

[spoiler]
-6 to detect Robyn, Dog-Al, Deckard and Half Pint

Disguise check for Al: Disguise check (http://orokos.com/roll/397093): 13d6t5 3  [13d6t5=3, 4, 6, 1, 4, 4, 2, 2, 6, 4, 6, 1, 3]
Disguise check for Jackhammer: Disguise check (http://orokos.com/roll/397094): 13d6t5 5 [13d6t5=6, 3, 2, 1, 6, 6, 1, 2, 4, 1, 6, 4, 6]
Disguise check for Isaint: Disguise check (http://orokos.com/roll/397096): 14d6t5 1 [14d6t5=3, 4, 5, 2, 4, 2, 2, 3, 2, 2, 1, 3, 2, 3]
Wow. Looks like he's getting a bit sloppy...

[/spoiler]

#333

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-28-16/0634:45>

Al grumbled something about metrosexuals, but accepted the comb. After spitting in it generously, he ran it briefly through his hair and handed it back to Isaint. The result was no more attractive but at least different.

He refused to take off his brown RAF jacket, but the ork was so much bigger than he was that the hippie jacket fit right over it.

Dismayed with his willy-nilly transformation from roadie to flower-child, Al idly wondered if he should dance his way down the corridor instead of walk. The thought didn't last long.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <04-28-16/1732:27>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

With the group disguised in various ways you make your way back towards the surface, skirting as far from the Market as possible without stumbling back into the Underplex…the hint of London smog drifting down into the surface tunnels is a welcome break from the either terminally dry or hopelessly damp air that you’ve encountered under the ground…

The makeup of the thin crowds around you changes as you approach the surface, fewer wildly dressed denizens of Below and more desperate barrens dwellers in thin inadequate flats or cobbled together rags.  The odd hint of authority figures, even here, but nobody who looks like they are going to bother you…

At last, you can see the lights of the tube station you’d been making for…

***

#29

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <04-28-16/1803:13>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

My feet are tired. Wandering Below in search of the Black Bitch has been fruitless. The Kami reluctant and obstructive in their search for the woman who has summoned me here. The last one claimed it was being eaten. She shall pay for this. I have resorted to inspecting the various entrances and exits in hopes of finding the infernal woman. She's hard to miss even in my mundane vision she glows. A glow concealing a dark heart. Like a coal burning. Black and on fire.

Wait.

I cannot forget that face and walk no matter how it hides itself. He would only need a disguise if he was... probably cheating someone again. I start my approach and adopt the submissive stance, not entirely feigned since i am certain that other one I have seen in the pits.

No. This outfit is ruined! I shall add the cost of yet another hakama to the Black Bitches ledger. Hopefully no one will notice that spot of mud. Shift the left leg back a bit. That should do it.

I bow. I speak to the floor as was beat into me when addressing elders.

"Excuse me. Please. I seek the woman Iris who summoned me here. Can you help me."

I wait.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-28-16/1828:34>

Al broke into a smile.

"Karasu-sama, hisashiburi na. Genki?" he greeted the woman. His Japanese was passable, but it was plain to her that he'd learned it watching too much anime.

Once she'd responded politely, maintaining her demure demaenor, he answered her question. He knew he wasn't supposed to get straight to the point, but the dingus was fraying his nerves with the way it pestered at his voodoo juices, and he was eager to get to the hand-off. So he answered her question.

"Ano onna, ne, warera mo suppokashichatta. Doko ni iru ka zen zen shiran." Then, remembering his manners, repeated himself in English, this time remembering that he and the team were very cunningly disguise. "Woman done stood us...er..me up too. Ain't got the first clue where she's at." He thought he should introduce Yukika to the others - Robyn might know where to look for Iris - but at the moment he couldn't quite recall where Robyn had gotten herself off to either.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-29-16/0052:28>

Robyn fastens the leash to the Hel Hound and makes comforting noises as the mage casts his spell.  The effect on Al is immediate and uncomfortable as part of his senses was suddenly cut off.  Robyn maintains control of the huge hound, but it is difficult and she begins to wonder at the wisdom of doing this.  She manages to calm the beast down and lets ISaint know that she is ready to move out.  She walks close enough to Deckard to stay within his radius of effect as the group moves toward the surface.  She maintains contact with the others, continuously updating the map she sends them. 

Reaching the surface means that she has once again left her second home.  She does not share the feeling of relief the others seem to have, but it does mean that she is one step closer to being able to have that talk with Al; a talk that has been delayed by eight years.  The appearance of the Japanese woman surprises her.  And then surprises her even more when she asks for Iris.  For the time being, she is content to see what ISaint and the others will tell her.  She will say something if necessary, but she is curious.  Perhaps she has some information about Cali that she was supposed to pass on to Iris here.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-29-16/0111:51>

[spoiler]Assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/397451): 8d6t5 4 [8d6t5=4, 1, 6, 5, 6, 6, 4, 3][/spoiler]

A single woman in Japanese garb without visible protection - this sight immediately let alarm bells ring in Isaint's head.
A quick peak into the astral confirmed his suspicion: A mage and a pretty powerful one at that, asking for their lost guide.

He wanted to say "who are you", but Al talks to her as if he knew her - correction: Al knew her, of course.

"Introductions seem to be in order - I am Isaint and this is Jackhammer. It is worrying to us that Iris seems to have vanished - what did you say was your relation to her?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <04-29-16/0242:32>

If on the physical plane nobody was paying attention thanks to his ghost's power, the Astral plane was obscured by his powerful Mana barrier. Powerful yet subdued. The artifact was emanating  this dark energy that was, at least for the Chaos Mage, corrupting the whole area around it. And more scary, it seemed it kept intensifying at an alarming rate.

Deckard was feeling very uncomfortable. Gone was his light humor and even his appetite. His focus was on maintaining the barrier so to avoid any trouble get rid as soon as possible of that artefact.
The group stopped for a asian woman asking about Iris...
He whispered to Robyn. Do you know that woman? Is she one of from Below?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-29-16/0335:58>

Robyn whispers back, "I do not know her personally, but I have seen her before, but not in Below.  She has links to some of the people I know in Mitsuhama.  I have worked in the past for a man named Nobu Harakiru and I remember her from a meeting I had with him.  She was in the background and I would think that he was her superior.  Iris lived......lives.......as much in the Overworld as I do and has many contacts here.  I have no idea what her relationship is to this woman or her superior.  I would like to know if it has anything to do with my missing......friend."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <04-29-16/1211:28>

Deckard was itching to assense the newcomer but between his own Mana barrier and the fog of dark energy from the artefact, he wouldn't get what he wanted out of it. It would have to wait for later. He scanned the physical plane observing the small crowd. If that lady was a high rank, like Robyn seemed to think, it would be surprising that she would come alone... unless she had well enough skills to handle things on her own.

My japanese really suck...  but old Al seems full of surprises

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <04-29-16/1351:43>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

They know her! But how well? The Dirty Old Cheater looks like he is trying to recapture his youth looking like one of the Below ruffians. And now he looks lost in the middle of introductions. Middle, hardly even started. Ah, yes the Oni speaks, it is at least polite. I am curious if the Steel Fisted Oni, Jackhammer is it, can speak for himself, he let the other one name him. Maybe they are a couple.

Look at those two whisper like children. How rude.

I let my eyes see their feet.

"Iris, neh? There is a powerful debt between us. This woman is the one with pointy ears and hair of sun colored honey. A child woman who glows. She is the one we know? The Black Witch?"

And has a heart blacker than mine.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <04-29-16/1419:39>

"Heh heh. Throw in a beaudacious set o' ta tas an' that'll be her, all right."

He was lighting up a cigarette and wondering if he could take Isaint's ridiculous hippie jacket off - no point in looking like a clown-groupie now that they were back to civilization.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <04-29-16/1537:08>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

Vanished. Unexpectedly. Good.

Honor compels. There cannot be an outstanding Debt. My feet hurt. Definitely an hour of massage and the hot tub.

I now raise my eyes to waist level. I straighten, less cowed. We are conversing. Blood and violence are less immediate. Though with the Black Bitch there -will- be blood.

"Vanished unexpectedly? Unfortunate." for someone! Not for me.

"Please, what should I do now?"

I cast bread on the waters. Let us see what comes to nibble. The Dirty Old Cheater is always interesting. Perhaps this Polite Oni is really leading them? Barbaric. The whispering rude ones are so guarded, what secrets do they think they can keep from me?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <04-29-16/1609:08>

Isaint avoided a groan. Another problem it seemed, waiting to be solved. But the word problem and opportunity were - as a lot of people erroneously believed - the same in Chinese.
A delicate task, especially when he had to talk to a woman who came from a culture that reviled his metatype. He couldn't be sure if she had identified him already - after all he wore a mask, had changed his facial structure and on the whole didn't look much like an Ork anyway - but his aura probably wasn't as well disguised as he.

"I am sorry, Mrs. Karasu was it? Maybe we can deliver a message to her from you should we see her. But before I commit to such action I'd need to know what kind of debt we are talking about. Since you both seem to be sorceress, I'd be reluctant to get my team involved in another blood feud."

'Damn it, the artifact is getting stronger by the minute. We need another of Deckard's mana barriers around that thing.'

<<Guys and Gal, you probably can drop the disguises. We are next to the exit and if that woman hasn't spotted you yet, it would be interesting to see her reaction to your appearance.>>

#335

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <04-30-16/1302:14>

Deckard looked up at nothing, speaking to his bound spirit whom he perceived as a ghostly figure when in the astral. You've heard the man, my friend. Thank you for your service.
As soon as Deckard had spoken the Concealment dropped and Robyn, Halfpint's drone and himself were still standing there just more obvious to the eyes of the onlookers.

He also dropped his sustained Mana Barrier which was useless against the corrupted mana around them. But now that he wasn't blocked on te Astral he attempted to pierce through the background count and assense the Japanese lady.

He approached her and bowed as he has seen on trids, returning the reverence of the woman. There was something familiar about her, like a bound that couldn't really exist since he had never met her.

[spoiler]Assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/397979): 13d6t5 5[/spoiler]

Another strong awaken, healthy, no cyber nor bioware. There was some weird mana lines running through her, probably not a magician, more like those fancy Mystic Adepts who liked to pretend they could outshine real Magicians. She had a decent level of power but he wasn't  impressed the way he was when he first saw Iris. What business the two had together was unknown, but the Dryad was pretty good at attracting attention anyway.

My name is Deckard.



#50

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-30-16/1442:25>

Robyn steps forward as well, bowing low in respect.  She introduces herself in Japanese.  "Hello respected one.  My name is Robyn Lysander.  I have been employed a couple of times in the past by Nobu Harakiru and have seen you in his presence.  Are you here on his behalf?"  She switches back to English.  "Does your business with Iris have anything to do with a missing mutual friend?  If so, I would beg of you to share that information with me.  I am now very worried about both of them."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <04-30-16/1530:10>

Deckard looked at Robyn. What, you too are missing somebody? It seems like everyone coming here is looking for someone else. For all we know the Dryad may have simply changed her mind on the job and leave it to us to handle it. Who's that person you're missing? I take it she disappeared while Below... crazy place...





#51

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-30-16/1643:57>

Robyn turns to face Deckard, sightless eyes still concealed by her multi geared dark glasses.  "Yes, I am seeking a very good friend by the name of Calista.  She and I had a run in with the House of Pleasure and she disappeared while I was recovering from the surgeries I needed afterwards.  That was months ago and I have been looking for her since.  Iris is a mutual friend of hers that is helping me find Cali, and now she has disappeared as well.  I will not give up, but it is frustrating to not know.  And yes, she disappeared from below."

"Below is a crazy place, but it is my home about half the time, and I really find it no more crazy than many places up here."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <04-30-16/2016:20>

House of Pleasure... sounds like a cheesy brothel to me. But the 'requiring surgery' part makes it not part of my kinks for sure.
That's just hypothetical, but do you think the two may have disappeared because of you? I'm sorry I don't want to make you feel bad or anything but, your friend Calista helps you and she disappear, then your mutual friend helps you then she disappears... you're the only one that hasn't disappeared, yet you're the one who bear the protection mark...


He turned towards the petite Japanese woman. Well, Ms Karasu, I take it you might want to chat a little more with Ms Robyn, here.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-30-16/2153:04>

Robyn shakes her head.  "It is a brothel, but hardly cheesy.  You can satisfy every sort of sexual fantasy you can think of.  But there is also pain.  Believe me, a great deal of pain.  I was tortured there for some time, which was why I needed the surgeries.  And I have not wondered before about whether I was the cause of the disappearances.  That is a new thought, and I will consider it."

She waits patiently to see if the newcomer wants to speak with her about Nobu Harakiru or Iris.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-01-16/1320:34>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

I am about to respond to the Polite Oni, when the Veil of Illusion is removed. It was not working well in this cursed place. The Kami complain to me.

They chitter like monkeys. So revealing.

I look to their feet again. I ready to speak.

More chatter. The Unclean Hound Mistress I remember, one of the reasons I attend Harakiru-san's meetings.  The Man's bow is passable, but he needs the cane a few times to improve his form. No amount of beatings will help the The Unclean Hound Mistress's form.

Chitter chitter chitter. Oh yes let's chat about my life as a sex puppet and all my friends are having bad things happen to them and are dissappearing. Why would I want to be near the Unclean Hound Mistress? I will add this to The Black Bitch's ledger. Along with my hurting feet.

I answer, "Please, I was summoned here by Iris to meet her while she was working with you. Ours is not a Blood Debt. That is all I know."

I raise my eyes and look at them all.

"Please, do you know why you might need a Shinto Priestess?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-01-16/1359:02>

Robyn's enhanced senses pick up changes in Yukika's breathing and scent and she infers that the woman is somehow uncomfortable around her.  As she has never had contact with the Japanese woman besides noting her presence in the offices of Mitsuhama, she is a bit confused at the reaction.  To Robyn, it is particularly telling that the woman has completely ignored her greeting and words, even though the bow had been precisely correct.  It would seem, after all, that this is more for ISaint to deal with and nothing to do with Cali.  Robyn remains polite and resolves to not demonstrate the same level of rudeness displayed by the other woman and bows to Yukika again and steps back, not saying anything as it is apparent that the woman is ignoring her presence.

Turning away, Robyn walks to where the Hell Hound is standing and scratches his head as she waits.  She continues her monitoring of the area around the team on her sensors and those of the drones and checks her agents on her 'link and deck to make sure that they are still looking for any unusual wireless activity in the vicinity.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-01-16/1415:38>

"Well, as these things go, we might need all the help we can get.

I am pleased to make your acquaintance and that you aren't here to do us harm. But before there is any further exchange of information I have one question for you:
"Who killed the sphinx?"

At the last sentence a bit of steel had gotten into his words, making his German accent more pronounced, while he indicated with his right hand to Al for his coat back, leaving his left relaxed, close to his quick draw holster.

#336

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-01-16/1753:02>

Deckard was going to continue the conversation when he got surprised by ISaint's question. What had Mythology to do with the Shinto Priestess? Or did they have a secret code Deckard was unaware of?

One thing was for sure, something inside him was telling him it was important the priestess tag along... almost as if...

Raven! Raven wanted her near.

Now how was he going to convince the other ones...?



#53

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-02-16/0057:46>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

The time has finally come. We shall see what The Black Bitch has done to me.

My feet hurt. I have bowed to all the ones she named. The two Oni, though one is barely Oni, the woman, the old man, the young man, and the hairless Koborokuru. Where has Iris gone?

I fear I have made an error trusting her. I have wandered Below and the environs for hours, the Kami complaining the whole time. The place is a mess.

"The right answer, man"

I wait. I am calm.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-02-16/0115:21>

Robyn can contain herself no longer.  The woman has been rude but Robyn is a doctor and her sensors have detected minor effects in the woman's voice and manner that her experience associates with pain.  Without moving forward, she again bows her head the precise angle and says, "Yukika, I believe you to be in some pain.  I am a physician.  Will you allow this one to humbly serve you and try to bring relief to your suffering?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-02-16/0246:26>

Deckard looked at ISaint for his approval. Technically her answer was pretty correct, but again, he ignored if it was just a passcode with ISaint, and any answer could be correct.
When Robyn interjected, he was baffled by what she was saying. In pain? the japanese woman didn't look as if she was suffering... the Joke would have been on Iris to send to them an injured hand.

In any case, he turned back to ISaint, to see his decision.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-02-16/0247:33>

Isaint visibly relaxed and nodded deep enough that it could be mistaken for a slight bow.

"Robyn one moment please, there are some niceties that should be observed before you get the scalpels out."
He turned his attention back to Karasu.
"It seems I have some good news and some bad news for you. The bad news: You won't find Iris here - and probably not anywhere else for some time. That pass phrase identifies you as her trusted replacement.
The good news: This is a particular lucrative venture and you happened to come in right at the end - so good timing on your part.
The slightly less good news: When we have finished our delivery we'll return back here to arrange a particularly difficult wedding. So I suspect that's why Iris thought it fitting to send a Priestess to join our group.

So welcome. And just for completeness sake - the small man over there is called Half-Pint."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-02-16/1041:10>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

I still live!

I smile at all and nod brief thanks to The Unclean Hound Mistress for her intent. Though why would I need a scalpel to attend my feet when it already feels exactly like that? I offer her and the hairless Koborokuru the kanji of welcome to my commlink. Is he Half-Pint because he cannot drink? I step aside from the groups path and acknowledge their precedence.

My eyes on the path before them I ask, "Please, how may I serve you?"

There will be more walking, and more dirt. I blame Iris for this. At least my shoes are broken in.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-02-16/1104:51>

Robyn smiles.  Progress has been made with the newcomer.  She snickers at ISaint's comment.  "I truly doubt that I would need a scalpel to help, but it might mean that a foot massage is in order.  However, I should ask if this is something more than a case of sore feet and not something more serious.  How long have you been in pain, Yukika?  I do have some medicine that will reduce the pain somewhat.  Would you like to have some?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-02-16/1159:34>

Foot massage? thought Deckard. Hey Doc, my feet hurts too. And I think I pulled something in my shoulder climbing on the drone, he added, rolling his shoulder with his elbow high.
He was feeling fine, but wouldn't mine getting an expert massage from the all too caring blind doctor..

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-02-16/1745:38>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

"Please, it is nothing."

My feet hurt. It is only a small blister. What does anyone expect after walking Below for hours in new shoes? The Unclean Hound Mistress must think I am hiding an injury instead of the spot of dirt on my pants. I even my stance.

"You have a delivery to make?"

A Wedding. Iris has made a mistake if she thinks I will perform one Below. It is unclean and would take me years to purify it.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-02-16/1754:02>

Almost as if he could read her thoughts, which he most certainly could not, Al reminded Isaint, "All well an' good amigo, but remember the ceremony's gotta be done by one o' they local muckety-mucks. That said, know fer a fact this one here's got a trick or three up them big sleeves. Don't reckon it'd hurt ta at least be friends with 'er."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-02-16/1851:26>

"I didn't say she had to wed them, did I? And neither did probably Iris. But we can use help in the logistics department.
Speaking of which: Yes, a delivery. You probably noticed the strong aura emanating from our silent friend over there. That's my drone Arthur carrying an Artifact that we probably shouldn't have acquired. But a contract is a contract and so we deliver it to our client in London above. You can accompany us or wait for us here to pick you up. it's up to you.
But personally I'd prefer it if you'd accompany us - for your and our mutual protection.

Oh and Robyn, I know for a fact that Rick is perfectly able to give himself massages with his magic fingers spell - so don't waste your talents on him without getting compensated."
In a much more sober tone Isaint said:
"If everyone is ready, we'll go back up. Heavy weapons back into your bags. Robyn, please call our guides when we on the streets, so we can leave the Bedlam without any fuss."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-03-16/0027:51>

Robyn nods to Yukika.  "As you wish, honored one.  But if you change your mind, please let me know."  She then says without turning to face either Deckard or ISaint, "I can provide you with a massage when we leave here, Deckard.  And my magic fingers might just surprise you in what they can do for you."

She nods to ISaint.  "Got it.  I will contact the Mechanica as soon as we break the surface."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-03-16/0143:32>

First Deckard opened his arms in an incredulous manner upon hearing Isaint's comment. The man was ruining his chance to get a professional massage.
But surprise clearly showed on his face when Robyn, not only kindly offered the massage, but bragging about her skills in it...

Suddenly he remembered their exchange about the House of Pleasure, and well yes, he got embarrassed.

Let's get out of here and make that delivery shall we?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-03-16/0328:09>

While they prepared the ascend, Isaint made sure the Priestess received the team's comm code. 
<<As you might have noticed, I'm the nominal leader of this group. I don't and can't give you orders - you are a professional yourself and I won't explain your job to you - but I make requests. And when I do it's usually for the benefit and well being of the whole team.
In that spirit I'd like to know which talents and specifically which spells you possess, so that I can understand where you'll be most effective.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-03-16/0846:40>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Embankment Tube Station, London Below]

With a new addition to the team you make your way, surprisingly unmolested, out of London Below to the more prosaic London Underground station of Embankment, and from there to London Above.  For the more sensitive of the team the growing prickle caused by the artefact is increasingly uncomfortable but at least from here you are on the right side of the river to get to your original starting point without, hopefully, too many more hurdles.  Of course the West End barrens are no picnic so you need to be on your guard, but plu ca change?!?

Finally you are on the approach to Angel’s and ridding yourself of this damn thing that is a painted target on your backs…well Arthur’s anyway…

Except the place appears, at least on the surface, to be deserted…

***

#30

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-03-16/0920:35>

"Are you fucking kidding me!"
Isaint hadn't finished the sentence before he began composing a message to their Johnson: <<What's going on. We have the object but the bar is deserted. You are sorely trying our patience.>>
He made sure to set Torrent and the rest of the team in CC.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-03-16/1145:16>

[Yukika Karasu -Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, London]

I enumerate my qualities to the Polite Oni. Of course these are merely facts. A knife is a tool that can destroy or aid.

<<Yes. I am a Shinto Priestess, in which role I serve the Kami and in turn they serve me. I have the gifts of healing, circles of protection, the ability to know all the objects in my near sight, and the ability to alter peoples moods. In combat I can fight near or far with a knife. For the fighters amongst us I can offer a shield of lightnings. In my service as a Priestess I support a very large community from which I can discover useful information or uncover uncommon and discreet services. My position and skills as a Priestess also is an advantage in working with most people. And finally, the Old Man and I cannot catch each other at cheating at card games.>>

There are some secrets best kept from everyone. Such as my ability to mold their minds to my will and have them follow my commands unerringly. While useful, these methods do not result in long lasting positive relations.

While no one is paying attention I put a bandage on my heel. It has a pink cat on it.

I follow as now we walk all over above ground.

It is typical of this day that there is no one at the meeting spot. It appears the best way to ensure someone disappears is to arrange a meeting with this group.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-03-16/1238:07>

Crappy as that damned dingus had him feeling, Al chuckled instead of scowled as he sidled up to Isaint. Sometimes all you could do was laugh. "Like it says inna Good Book, jefe, fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice.......heh heh......so here we are, second time inna row, dicks in our hands, an' no one ta..." then noticing the ladies present he shifted his words."Er, hot cargo an' no buyer. That's it."

He peered around, watching to see if the SWAT-ninjas would hit them again this time, or if the place would just blow up. Or both. "Still, ya reckon we ougtta take a closer look, make sure nobody's home? Even an empty grave can tell a story."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-03-16/1343:37>

"Yeah, but we'll let drones and spirits do the heavy lifting this time. One blown up building was more than enough. Damn it. Torrent  needs to step up his game on the client search.

Mrs. Karasu, Rick, please send one of your spirits through the house to look for bombs or any other nasty surprises left behind for us.
Robin, Half-Pint, please do likewise with your spy drones.

And get your weapons ready.

I tell you, if the Johnson has vanished, we take that thing and the remaining FAB packs, pour it into a concrete block and drop it into the Thames."
Isaint looked around, searching for any clue or sign of an ambush.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-03-16/1613:49>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

The reply to Isaint's message is terse and not a little pissed off

<<Watch your tone!  I need to make sure you frag ups are clean before I take possession of the goods.  You are the ones that potentially unleashed FABIII on London.  When I am sure you are clean and that you haven't picked up a tail, then and only then will you receive payment.  Go inside, there's a chem sniffer and diagnostics suite in there, scan yourselves and upload the results to the designated host.  If you are all still there by morning I will arrange for the package to be picked up and your funds will be transferred.  If not you are on your own, but don't expect to work in the UK again, I will drag your precious reps back to the stone age.>>

***

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Elsewhere, London]

Torrent reluctantly placed the call

"Monarch, they have the package but there has been a wrinkle.  They have brought down more heat on themselves than the J is prepared to deal with and he is making them sit tight until he is sure they are in the clear... Yes, I know, but we can salvage this, I will let them know the score, they are professionals above all else and whilst they will no doubt baulk at being told what to do, in the end it is their own interests to see this through.  Yes, I know, I'll get it done."

With that he broke the connection and reached for his other 'link

<<@Isaint & Team: Mr J has been in touch, he wants you to verify that you are clean before he takes delivery, I'm sure that you will agree that isn't unacceptable in the circumstances?  He wants you to sit tight and that probably doesn't appeal very much but I can provide you with a surveillance circle to mitigate any unpleasant surprises.  If you want to make your own arrangements like last time then I can't stop you of course...>> he left the rest unsaid but he trusted their intelligence enough to work out the implications of going off piste again...

***

#31

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-03-16/1921:21>

"Well, heh heh, that sounds 'bout eight ways wrong ta ol' Al, least bein' I don't fancy sittin' still while someone's gunnin' for me, much less when some deal-shiftin' suit's doin' the askin'."

He reached into his shoulder bag and pulled out a big brick of what appeared to be bright orange clay. Tossed it up in the air and caught it with a grin, all yellow teeth and leer. "Now my vote is we strap this here lump o' joy ta ol' Aku Aku's neck, set the timer ta maybe twenny minutes, an' feed the image to Mr. Money, see how much he wants it."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-03-16/2214:58>

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <05-03-16/1343:37>

Rick, please send one of your spirits through the house to look for bombs or any other nasty surprises left behind for us.

The services of Beings from the Metaplanes or from the Elements are too precious to be used for being the bait of an possible boobytrap. I will go myself.

With those word, Deckard sat down on and closed his eyes as his aura departed his body. He manifested and walked deeper into the Angel's looking for possible hodden souls or boobytraps.

When he came back to his body, he had found nothing and Al was offering something that would surely piss off the Johnson.

Whoa whoa whoa, easy Al. I doubt playing chicken  with the Johnson will make us stay in good standing. And I say playing chicken because we have, or should I say, we shouldn't have any intend of blowing up this thing right here. If anything I'd go ISaint route and drop it deep into the Thames.  If we have till tomorrow before anyone comes pick it up, why don't we simply use that time smartly.
For one, some of us can do some legwork on maybe knowing more about the artefact now that we know what it looks like and the evil it breaths.  Second, playing sitting ducks is of nobody's liking, however we could get ready to counter attack if such a thing would happen. Nowhere did he mention we all needed to stay inside. The rest could spread out and get in position for support and counter offense.

What do you say? 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-04-16/0247:17>

Robyn has followed along in the wake of the others, quiet and tactful.  Once it is apparent that the employer has stood them up she chuckles and shakes her head.  She is not used to being treated in this fashion by an employer and decides once again that arranging for work in this manner is not desirable.  Better to seek employment from a reputable AAA or even a crime syndicate.  At least they pay.  She sends in her drones to see what they might find and reports back the same as everyone else has.  The interior is empty except for the chem sniffer and diagnostic suite.

She shakes her head at Al and says, "Well, try not to blow yourself up, Al.  I am going inside to get myself and my service animal scanned.  At that point I will find a nice place to sit and wait.  Deckard, if you want that massage, we might have enough time."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-04-16/0258:10>

You had to know Isaint for a while to recognize the expression on his face as really, really pissed off - mainly because his face was still mostly obscured by a thick beard.
"Thanks Al, as much as I'd like to follow through with that impulse, Rick is right.
But one thing is for sure: We'll not hang around this thing and wait until it taints the background of this whole city. You can bet that it will sooner or later attract some very nasty spirits. We never should have removed the FAB.
Likewise our contract said we had to deliver the package to this address - there never was any mention of guarding the fucking thing. Actually there was a lot that wasn't mentioned.
Finally, we have other business to attend. I gave my word to return when we finish the deal. The deal is finished with."

He again opened a channel to the Johnson, including the team and Torrent:
<<Watch it who you call a Frag Up, Mr. I-have-shit-for-intel. Our deal specified explicitly that we'd bring the object here. Nothing about keeping watch for you or to have it cleaned up. We already paid a specialist to decontaminate us and our gear. Meanwhile the astral count on this thing keeps rising - something you probably didn't know either.

We'll stick around exactly one hour at your little sniffer station. I'll even go so far as to put it into a airtight bag and spray the room with some disinfectant. But that's the end of it.

You think you can destroy my reputation for not complying with your inane behavior? You'll be surprised.

Hire some watchmen for all I care. This thing will draw some massive astral heat if you keep it at any place for any amount of time. If we are unlucky and this shithole sits on any kind of leyline I wouldn't be surprised if it taints the whole area in a few hours.

Oh and another thing: Whoever hid that thing knew exactly what he did by placing FAB packs next to it. If you play nice we might be persuaded to sell you some, since we recently came into possession of a stash tailor made to counter that artifact.

Good day to you Mr. J.>>

"Ok guys. We'll use the chemsniffer - can't hurt to see if we are somehow still hot. When we are done, we'll do the perimeter thing Rick mentioned. And if the Johnson hasn't complied by than I say we go out and buy some cement."

#342

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-04-16/0306:54>

Robyn considers the artifact then says, "ISaint.  I have pretty good relations with a couple of AAAs that are always interested in awakened artifacts and might know something of this thing.  I do not recall our employer saying that we had to keep this a secret, especially since it seems that someone else already knows about it.  If I contact these guys, we may get a visit or stir up a hornets nest, but do you want me to try?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-04-16/0323:02>

"Thanks for asking. At the moment we keep what good faith we have. If the Johnson doesn't do his homework you may - very discreetly and without saying anything about who where and what  - inquire about it.
We dealt with an AAA strike team a month ago - that's an experience I don't want to repeat."
Isaint replied - a lot calmer than he had been a minute ago.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-04-16/0330:44>

Al shrugged and followed Isaint inside. "Seems ta me a picture's worth a thousand words. If'n yer serious 'bout yer deadline - an' I hope you are - then a block of plastique on a timer has a way o' makin' a point. Course yer cement idea ain't without merits - got a solid, steady feel to it. But it's a lot of extra work, an' jist lacks the panache ya git with C6 on a shiny red digital countdown. Or, an' here's a thought, I got enough det cord with me ta pretty much mummify the thing - now that'd be a compellin' visual for ya."

He sighed as he let the silly machine run its diagnostics on him. resigned to a world of milquetoast half-measures.

But he would always have his dreams.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-04-16/0949:02>

Robyn and her Al follow human Al inside and wait their turn on the instruments, uploading her data as required.  Afterwards, she finds a quiet booth and takes a seat with the Hell Hound at her side.  "I am going to see what I can find out in VR without going to my other contacts.  Please watch my body."  She sinks into VR and glides through the matrix to The Nexus, one of the three large data sharing groups in the world.  She identifies herself and uses pictures and descriptions of the artifact to try to fins any information available on it.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-04-16/1107:46>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel’s, West End Overplex, London]
 
Angel’s is the same depressing hole you met in before, except now it is even more empty, the dank air hinting at spilt alcohol and mould spores.  The brand spanking new atmospheric analyser looks very out of place sitting in the centre of the dilapidated room.
 
Running the diagnostics wand over yourselves it beeps and whistles for a bit before the holo display turns a grim orange and words you really didn’t want to see are projected in to the air
 

<Foreign Bacteria Detected, Recommend Quarantine and Urgent Medical Attention>

 
Well that’s just peachy!
 
[spoiler]Anyone exposed to the FAB, most of you (and Al2), please make Body+Willpower+Rt of any protective devices when exposed+Medkit Rt (antibiotics, although not sure they’ll work on Al2)…if enough time passes in game you are going to start feeling very crappy!
 
Mutated FAB III: [Vector Inhalation, Speed 12 hours (3), Penetration 1, Power 13S, Nature Bacterial, Effects: Stun Damage, Nausea, Disorientation][/spoiler]
 
The good news just keeps on coming when the holo projector flickers with static and suddenly the medical diagnostics information is replaced by an androgynous figure in some sort of silver plated armour.  Impossibly long anime esque white hair ruffles in an invisible breeze and then an effeminate but somehow threatening voice emanates from the tinny speaker
 
“Well excellent, I can see you have made it out with my artefact. Please don’t be upset with Findley, Mr Johnson, he is out of his depth and feeling the breath of his superiors on the back of his neck.  It is no matter, I dripped the intel on the site into his ear so you could say I am the original sponsor of your endeavour.  I will see that you are suitably compensated as soon as you hand the artefact to my operatives…”
 
***
 
#32

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-04-16/1125:13>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

I start to ask the Kami a favor. I pause. I change my mind. I ask a different favor.

FAB?

The Kami goes. The leprous rat dissappears into the building.

FAB?!

What a trick Iris has played on me!

FAB!

The leper rat finds nothing it knows to be dangerous. Of course it would have no idea what a bomb is. It is a Kami.

FAB...

They talk as if they do not know we are in working in a State that has the top counter terrorism operations and culture for centuries. They talk openly about what they have. The Lord Protector has an army of informants and a population willing to inform against threats. And then there are the Great Powers. They too will hold interests and act.

I hope they have not revealed this to anyone! They should not have even told me.

FAB... Iris shall pay for this. They will all pay.

"Please. I do not understand what you mean by 'clean'?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-04-16/1433:47>

Al saw the test result, but since he felt fine he figured it was just a load of crap like all the rest of what the Johnson had said.

He was more interested in the hologram. He recorded the image on his eyes, shot it to his Fairlight, and then attached it to a text to Silk. <<Hey girl, this here non-binary a-hole that Winter feller yer not friends with? That puts him in the bad guy category, right, your weird thoughts on gray morality notwithstanding? Good or bad, if that's him then don't reckon there's any way in hell he's working with Torrent, right?>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-04-16/1526:08>

[spoiler]
I'll use the Valkyrie Module in Isaint's car for it's Rating 6 Autodoc)

Bod 5+Wil 5+Respirator 6+5 Edge+6 Medkit-1 Penetration
Resist disease w/edge (http://orokos.com/roll/399209): 26d6h5 11 [26d6h5=5, 2, [6, 5], 3, 2, 3, 2, 1, [6, 3], 3, [6, 6, 6, 4], 2, [6, 4], [6, 1], 3, 2, 4, 4, 4, 3, 3, 1, 3, [6, 3], 1, [6, 1]]
So 2 Stun Damage
Resist disease w/edge (http://orokos.com/roll/399210): 20d6t5 6
Cured after the second instance.

[/spoiler]

"Well, that explains probably why those people where locked in behind those steel doors. Fuck."
Isaint turned to Yukika: "You wouldn't happen to have a disease healing spell in your repertoire? Never mind. Clean would be too strong a word. Sick is now a more realistic assessment. I'll call in my med equipment."

Isaint didn't wait around: He sent a signal to his VTOL Drone and had Arthur deploy the Medkit
"Ok, I've two Valkyrie modules at the ready, one on my Morgan, the other will arrive within the next ten minutes. Arthur here will start with Antibiotics treatment. No time to bleed guys and gals..."

When the call came he answered: "Sorry, no can do. Our contract is with Mr. Findley/Johnson/whatever. He is the one who'll get the stuff. If he chooses to give it to you, that's his decision."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-05-16/0153:23>

Robyn picks up the diagnostic instrument and runs it across herself and the Hell Hound.  The news is completely disappointing.  Apparently she has gathered a heavy debt and the magic did not clean the disease away.  She uses the medkit to see what she can stave off and the result is again disappointing.  It appears that she can reduce the effect a bit, but not entirely.  Without turning her head, she says, "I am sorry to have brought a false sense of security to us.  I am unable to cure this and have no idea where to begin.  Do you wish me to re-establish contact with my medical acquaintance at the hospital?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-05-16/1110:28>

Oh Drek, mumbled Deckard reading the scanner. They were pretty much all infected.
What a hell is that bacteria? is it lethal? are we contagious? Can't those fancy medkits get rid of it? How about those Mages from Below!? Talk about a job! Charlatans! 
Needless to say, Deckard was a bit panicky about the idea of having a Bacteria eating him from the inside.

Quote from: Mercy Merchant on <05-05-16/0153:23>

"I am unable to cure this and have no idea where to begin."

Doc, you're not supposed to say that. You're supposed to absolutely give us that false sense of security. You know, the pat in the back: "Everything 's gonna be just fine". 

[spoiler]
Bod 3+Wil 5+Respirator 6 +7 Edge+6 Medkit -1 Penetration:
Disease Resistance w/ Edge (http://orokos.com/roll/399512): 26d6h5 10
3 Stun.
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-06-16/0118:43>

Robyn is petting her hound and looks up with a smile.  "You are right.  Everything is going to be alright.  I will find a cure in time.  I am going back to the Nexus for a bit to see what I can find.  Wake me in an hour if I am not back."  Robyn slips back into VR and glides back to the Nexus host to continue scanning for any information about the artifact or the mutated FABIII and a possible cure.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-06-16/1057:10>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel’s, West End Overplex, London]
 

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <05-04-16/1526:08>

"Sorry, no can do. Our contract is with Mr. Findley/Johnson/whatever. He is the one who'll get the stuff. If he chooses to give it to you, that's his decision."

The laugh from the speaker grates on your nerves, the androgynous figure pirouetting in the holo display as (s)he surveys you all
 
“I don’t think Mr Findley wants the device any longer…he’s going to leave you twisting in the wind while the Security Forces quietly remove the bioterrorist threat, especially when he sees all that nice pathogen data that you just kindly uploaded for him.  I on the other hand am willing to pay your finder’s fee without worrying about any heavy handed corporate involvement.  You can try and verify with Findley if you want but I suspect that ‘link’s service has been suspended…you’ve only got a little time before the net closes over your pretty heads”
 

Quote from: adamu on <05-04-16/1433:47>

<<Hey girl, this here non-binary a-hole that Winter feller yer not friends with? That puts him in the bad guy category, right, your weird thoughts on gray morality notwithstanding? Good or bad, if that's him then don't reckon there's any way in hell he's working with Torrent, right?>>

The reply is not quite what you expected
 
<<Torrent?  You’re working for my father?  Aria neglected to mention that little nugget of intel.  I am sorry to disappoint you but my relationship with Dad isn’t strong enough to be able to tell you who he will and won’t work with.  That said, I find it doubtful that anyone would willingly work with someone as alien as a Dissonant Techno…you did know he was a Dissonant didn’t you?  I know he was involved in your business late last year.  LeFey thankfully managed to shake him loose and go off grid, I hope she has still evaded him but I don’t think we’ll ever know unless she or Mordred resurface.  So, bad guy, perhaps, someone not to be trifled with, certainly.
 
Let me know if I can do anything to help.  I am working on something I could do with your help on so you surviving the next few days would benefit us both!>>
 
***
 
#33

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-06-16/1233:07>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

FAB.

I listen. I watch. I sit quiet and still as this tragedy unfolds. I think.... FAB. They are sickening. There are opportunities here, but so dangerous. Another offer is made.

FAB.

I have some ideas, there are some obvious paths through this, but what do these people want. I am afraid to ask.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-06-16/1321:44>

Torrent is Silk's father? This damned business got more incestuous every time he turned around.

<<Woman, I don't even know what a damned dissonant is, but reckon I'll take your word it's a bad thing. An' I'll take the not dying thing under advisement. Stay tuned, this looks like another one we may need help brokering a fresh deal on.>>

Along with her message, Silk had returned the attached image with an ID Confirmed flag on it. Putting away his commlink, Al went over and pulled the plug on the diagnostic device. The hologram winked out.

Keeping Silk's family business to himself, Al spoke before the freak could hack any other devices and resume his silly cavorting.

"Gender-bender there's a dissonant techno goes by Winter," he said, pretending he knew what it meant. "Reckon ol' Al's been up agin' 'im afore, an' more'n once. Since I'm still here ta relate the tale, well, I wouldn't worry 'bout 'im too damned much."

He lit a cigarette. "What I am worried about is stayin' here one minute longer. I won't pretend ta know who's lyin' an' who, if anyone, is playin' straight with us, but until we find out I'm fer movin'. An' now."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-06-16/1537:21>

"True." Isaint nodded. "But first we'll go back to your first plan Al. Congratulations, now we have every reason to wrap old ugly face with det-cord."
Despite what the holo-Winter had said, he tried a final time to contact their Johnson. When the message returned as undeliverable he cursed.
"We need to go to ground somewhere where we can't infect anyone else with this stuff and we have to move now.
Try not to sneeze on anyone. If anyone of you starts to feel a fever pipe up. The last thing we need is someone here keeling over while we are on the run.
If we are up against a Technomancer we need to go dark now - and before someone asks: No we won't deal with that ladyboy. If someone purposefully bypasses Torrent to hire me for a job that means it's someone I'd rather see in the ground than as my employer."

Before he did switch of his matrix gear he called Torrent, including again the team: <<Don't know if you know, but your Johnson was an unwitting pawn for a dissonant Techno called Winter. He or she is after the artifact, we are infected by a mutated FAB strain and now for the second time we head towards an altercation with a security team. Please tell me you know a safe house where we can lay low for treatment. And if you say "Below" at any point in your answer I'll think some pretty mean curse words in your general direction.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-06-16/1631:21>

Al's lips spread into a rictus grin around the cigarette clamped between his teeth.

He already pretty much lived wifi dark, so once he'd sent a priority-flagged text to Robyn - who was still deep in VR - telling her what they'd decided, he was fully dark with a flip of a switch. He figured Robyn would go dark or not - she knew what she was doing in there.

Then he gleefully set about wrapping the idol in a literal cocoon of high-yield det cord, hard-wiring the array to a manual pull detonator. He left himself plenty of play in the connecting cable and he set the thing as far from the team as he could while the rest of the group prepared to move out.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-06-16/1851:30>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

I touch nothing. Even using the medical wand while the others busy themselves I use my spirit fingers. Discreetly of course. It is simple to make it appear to use my own flesh.

I will live!

I keep away from all of them. These people are a greater danger to me than anything ... FAB! I will need to appease the Kami with purification ceremonies for months. Possibly 6 moons. And special sacrifices on the New Year. It is cold bathing naked in the New year.

I stand near an exit. Perhaps there is a chance. I need to know more. So strange, they are so free with deadly secrets and so secretive about trivial things.

Missing little things will get us killed.

"Please. Is it possible to burn the sickness and sell the prize? Is it not reasonable to want to pay for something without sickness?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-16/0046:26>

Robyn gets the message from Al and her avatar frowns.  Cutting short her time is VR, she slips back to her body and stirs.  Per guidance, she goes wireless dark.  Thankfully, her major sensor groups are not wireless dependent and she will still be able to see.  She looks around and sees people getting ready to leave.  "Alright.  I am out of the matrix and ready to move when you are.  I am now wireless dark as requested."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-07-16/0059:12>

Deckard's wife, Cora, was a Technomancer. It was no surprise he had heard about the Dissonance. He had at time compared that to Toxic shamans, but it only led to some argumentations. Nevertheless, Deckard could associate it with something Evil, and even though he was no angel - he had killed, has been the cause of it and other dismay, and had slept ok after, such was his profession - he was not willing to willfully aid anyone dealing in the Dissonance.
What was intriguing was her interest for the relic. Its ability to taint the ambient Mana, at such speed, meant some dark history.

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <05-06-16/1537:21>

Before he did switch of his matrix gear he called Torrent, including again the team: <<Don't know if you know, but your Johnson was an unwitting pawn for a dissonant Techno called Winter. He or she is after the artifact, we are infected by a mutated FAB strain and now for the second time we head towards an altercation with a security team. Please tell me you know a safe house where we can lay low for treatment. And if you say "Below" at any point in your answer I'll think some pretty mean curse words in your general direction.>>

You Guys are the ones behind the Chopper crash and the "terrorist activity" - as they put it - by the Motorway station, ain't you? Things never go too well around you it seems...


He watched Al decorating the Artefact like it was Christmas tree, with enough explosive to probably level the entire block.

That's a terrible idea... he said outloud. Don't get me wrong this Winter should probably not get her hand on this, but I have a very bad feeling about blowing it up. Who knows what will come out of it. It's already pretty dangerous as is. There are legends of powerful evil spirits locked up in ancient relics. The last thing we want is a demonic free spirit roaming around London. Maybe another reason we should all be as far from this artefact as possible... heck if we're not gonna get paid for bringing it, we might as well put it back where we found it!

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-07-16/0623:57>

"Hey baby," Al answered with vocal cords ravaged raw by a life of smoking, "Reckon my whole life is the sum total of a daily diet o' terrible ideas. An' who wouldn't want my life? Reckon one more terrible idear won't hurt me none."

He flicked a spent Lucky Strike at the idol, the butt bouncing off the det cord coating in a small shower of sparks. "Gits to a point where we got two, three factions all sayin' they gon' unleash hell on us we don't bend over jist how they say, then it's time ta let 'em know that's a guaranteed fail. Let 'em know whatever they do to us, it ain't gon' git 'em what they want. Yo jefe, ya reckon it's time ta upload some pics o' my little masterpiece here?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-16/1110:14>

Robyn nods at that idea.  "Is that worth considering, ISaint?  Perhaps they would like it back and are better able to keep it from affecting anyone.  They may even have done some research on a cure.?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-07-16/1136:08>

"Possible but unlikely. This vault was all but forgotten. Getting the bacteria back around it and burying it at a nondescript place will probably be safest. With regard to the cure, there are still some options. Finding a mage with a Cure Disease spell for one.

And yes Al, make the upload. If anything this might delay the opposition a bit while they think of a way to prevent the thing from blowing up."

He turned to Rick: "Yeah that was us. This clusterfuck is very reminiscent of that situation.

Mrs. Karasu I am sorry to drag you into this, but selling is now out of the question. I have little experience with Dissonant Technos, but if they are even a bit like Toxic Mages we can't trust Winter to keep his word or any proposed bargain.
But you don't have to worry about the money. You will be compensated for your troubles - especially since our pay lies in escrow. We upheld our end of the bargain, so we are entitled to it. In that at least I have faith in Torrent's skills."

#346

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-16/1157:26>

Robyn nods, "Should I make contact with the mages again?  Perhaps they do not realize that they only cured part of the problem.  They are skilled and might be able to help us."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-07-16/1231:36>

"Later, when we are back Below. And make sure they understand that this is not a new favor...

HEY, I just thought of something. Those bacteria are awakened and dual natured like Dog-Al. If we create a mana barrier with a high force rating and walk through it we'd cause the bacteria to intersect with the barrier. Dual natured people have a high chance to get knocked unconscious, but the bacteria would at the very least be crushed and left behind. It would be an elegant solution for us - sadly not for Dog-Al."
Isaint looked around at Rick and the Priestess:
"Please create the strongest mana barrier you can without actually hurting yourself."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-16/1335:43>

Robyn frowns.  "So does this in any way help Al?  Would it be useful if I could move him through, even if it makes him go unconscious?  Could you lift him through, like you did with the artifact?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-07-16/1401:04>

"If it works it will knock him out completely. It's not pleasant - that I can tell you, but it won't kill him. But if it doesn't kill the bacteria he'd be weakened and in even more danger.
So we need to test it on ourselves first and whoever does this might have a difficult relationship with Al afterwards."
Isaint shrugged.

#348

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-07-16/1428:39>

As the Satanists worked their mumbo jumbo cure and discussed what to do with the fake dog, Al flipped his Fairlight back on and opened up the wifi on his eyes just long enough to download his images of his demolition work on the idol. Then he went fully wifi dark again while he edited the image file, clearly showing the amount of explosives secured to and encompassing the thing, including serial numbers on the cord in case anyone doubted their yield. He blacked out the detonation connections, though. Once it was ready he preset three addresses - Torrent, their erstwhile Johnson, and the PAN for Angels, assuming Winter was watching it. Then he turned his commlink on for the split second it took to burst the image to the three addresses and shut it back off, also removing the battery.

"Alrighty, then. Let's do this mana thing double quick an' beat feet already."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-16/1432:06>

Robyn nods her head.  "Let's do this.  We go first then I can take Al through.  If he is going to lash out at anyone I want it to be me.  We have been through a lot together and I might be able to control him."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-07-16/2142:17>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

I hear them talk about their knowledge of all the recent terrorist actions. Unfortunate. There are many things I would rather not know. It would be far safer for them if they didn't speak in front of me of such things.

I hope the explosion which destroys the powerful artifact they have does not unleash a Horror, nor the sickness. Do they not use explosions to spread poisons and sickness everywhere? I remember Sensei Oldham's lecture on the effects in Nagasaki Prefecture. The explosion itself was the smallest part of all the death caused.

It may be better to ride with Al.

I would die cleanly.

I listen to them strategize on negotiations. Should this not have been discussed before undertaking this task? Is it true they committted their lives to this without knowing the risks and outcomes? I always consider the consequences of the deal failing. The very first day at the Mitsuhama course on contract negotiation everyone learns that a contract is not important if everything goes as agreed, but vital for determining how to resolve issues. And these people will always have issues.

Ah, once again the urge to solve all with magic.

"Please, I am very sorry. While my Circle of Protection is very strong, it requires a site to be purified for hours, requires materials normally supplied by my clients, and cannot be moved."

I bow and look in front of my feet. This will not be good news.

"Please, I am sorry, to my knowledge if the Sickness is part of you, then it will stay with you when you confront mana barriers. However, it is possible I am wrong."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-08-16/0236:06>

Deckard scratched his head. The Mana Barrier was an idea but he had a lot of reservations about its success. The Mages down Below would have noticed the bacteria easily if it showed as dual natured. Yet it had remained unnoticed. Nevertheless, a small headache is all that could happened really creating the barrier. If it was a change it was worth checking.

Fine, I'll build the Barrier. I could easily take Al through it too without anyone nearby nor touching him, remember I'm a master of telekinesis.
Let me clarify something though. It seems we're all infected outside of Yukika. Does anyone has an idea when the symptoms should start showing? We should really be somewhere safe when that happens.

His question answered, Deckard took out from his pocket a silver coin that allowed him to cast the spell. Mana gathered around the group and anyone perceiving the Astral would see a strong opaque dome of energy surrounding them. The corrupted magical background was affecting the Mage however, and he found his effort more taxing than usual.

[spoiler]
Mana Barrier F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/400240): 17d6t5 5
Drain DV4 (http://orokos.com/roll/400241): 15d6t5 1 Ouch
3 Stun 5 hits
[/spoiler]

He tried not to show his discomfort and extended his hand toward the exit door. Who wants to try? I will pass straight through.



#60

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-08-16/0401:10>

"Let's do this." Isaint walked through next. He didn't have to much hope that this idea worked, but at least it would ease the mind of the team a bit. If it didn't kill the bacteria that was already inside them, it would at least disinfect their gear.

"Ok now, Arthur engage Chauffeur mode." Obediently the Drone walked out to the parked Morgan and got behind the steering wheel.
"I have one seat and a place in the Valkyrie Module in the car. I think Robin you and your Al should get this place. I have my bike, Deckard you have yours.
Mrs. Karasu, for you I have a VTOL Drone, also with a Valkyrie Module. The Autodoc can check you and make sure you get some preventative treatment.
That leaves Al and Jackhammer. Al you've got a ride. I trust you two to keep the Artifact save.
Half Pint, I probably don't have to ask if you have a ride. Also, I understand if you are taking your leave at this point. You were protected by the rigger cocoon of your drone and unlike us you now don't have a reason to risk your neck going back to Below.

I suggest we meet up back in my storage unit. It's isolated enough to not risk any civilians' lives should we get attacked or still be a health hazard. From there we can look for a more permanent place to recover." 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-08-16/1046:52>

Robyn smiles grimly.  "Can we send one person through the barrier and then check to see if it works?  I would rather find out before I send Al through and have to deal with an uncomfortable Hell Hound.  Also I would like to ask you to turn the diagnostic instrument back on so I can look at it.  It would not be that hard to wire the thing to show that we are still infected when we might not be.  It could be the plan of this techno to have us think we are infected when we might actually be clean.  It should not take too long for me to look."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-08-16/1127:05>

"Use one of the Valkyrie units. It's diagnostics should be on the same level - without being compromised by a Techno. On the whole  it would be best if he was unconscious for the transport anyway, so the VM unit can start treatment on him."
Isaint had stepped outside and looked around for any sign of approaching enemies. His drone had landed and lay open before him. With a gesture he indicated for the Shinto Priestess to enter, while he manually entered the destination for the drone.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-08-16/1353:14>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

I touch my Omamori lightly and hold my knife, hidden, and pass through.

I look a moment at the flying prison and consider speaking. I refrain. It cannot hold me, and will keep the sickness away. I will be blind to the Kami and the Spirit World and unable to act until I shatter it. No matter, it is not mine.

I enter the flying prison and wait.

If only Iris had not been involved. I could entertain myself with these people and choose when to remove myself to safety. They have even allowed one who would be best suited to protect us from this Techno to leave when we are in the greatest danger.

I do not intervene, if more of these people leave or fall to the wayside then I can concentrate on finding Iris and settling this Debt.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-08-16/2124:32>

"I had hoped to be able to determine if this barrier is needed at all.  If the diagnostic device has been tampered with, it might be sending false records.  For most of us, the difference is minimal indeed, but it can mean a world of discomfort for my friend and companion.  I will do this under protest."

Robyn fastens the leash onto Al's collar.  "Will you be able to move him to the VM?  At 155 kilos, his dead weight will be difficult to move without help."  She takes a firm grip on the lead and does her best to comfort the Hell Hound as she takes him through the barrier.  The awakened creature senses something wrong as he crosses , but his faith in his mistress is such that he goes with her.  The effect is dramatic as the huge animal collapses to the floor.  Robyn is crying as she hugs the hound's neck and waits for ISaint to lift him up and move him to the VM chamber, where she straps him in carefully and lets the advanced medical instruments of device begin to do what they can.  She slips into the other compartment and begins running a diagnostic

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-09-16/0309:58>

[spoiler]
Activate Focused Concern (Ignore 3 points environmental modifiers)
Body Boost (http://orokos.com/roll/400544): 7d6t5 4 [7d6t5=4, 6, 5, 2, 5, 5, 2]
Adept centering (Ignore an additional 4 points environmental modifiers)
Levitate F6 (http://orokos.com/roll/400543): 7d6t5 2 [7d6t5=5, 5, 2, 2, 1, 2, 1]
Drain Resist: Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/400545): 14d6t5 2[14d6t5=1, 1, 3, 4, 2, 3, 3, 2, 3, 2, 5, 3, 2, 5]
No Drain
Drain resist Body Boost (http://orokos.com/roll/400546): 10d6t5 2[10d6t5=5, 3, 4, 3, 4, 4, 6, 4, 4, 3]
No Drain

Autodoc (http://orokos.com/roll/400547): 12d6t5 4[12d6t5=6, 1, 1, 4, 5, 2, 3, 5, 1, 5, 4, 4]
Dog-Al regains two points of stun, but the autodoc will keep him sedated.

[/spoiler]

Isaint turned around to grab the hound. '155kg! That thing is over one and a half my body weight. Oh well, if the barrier manages to knock him out, it should be able to do the same to the bacteria. Time for some magic.'
He gave a short prayer to his patron to resist the ravages of power and felt his stamina increasing. "Vade retro"
With an effort of will and the rote Rick had taught him, Isaint began to lift the unconscious dog.
He felt the mana surge through him and carefully he moved the hound into the open VM unit. He made sure, the autodoc had awakened non-human biology in his library and had the whole system restart with wireless off.

"Don't worry Robin. Dog-Al is now the safest of us all. The autodoc will patch him up in no time."

#351

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-09-16/0345:15>

Knowing that he was neither a Satanist nor sick, Al walked through the barrier to keep everyone happy, fairly confident that everything they were doing was total guesswork.

"Alighty Jack baby, looks like yer with me inna suicide ride. Let's load that dingus up an' git gone."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-09-16/1024:21>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere, London]
 
With Angel’s receding into the distance you make your way clear as quickly and surreptitiously as possible when Torrent’s message comes in
 
<<Ok, I can find you a safehouse for a day or two topside but I can’t say I’m happy about it…didn’t we have a conversation about ‘going your own way’?  What the hell is with the explosives?  There’s negotiation and then there’s…well, whatever the frag that is…!?  You say the J is being strung along by a techno?  Well that fits, I’ve just spoken to him and he has confirmed that he has been having communication issues but is still interested in the artefact once you are clean.  He clearly realises you are serious because he has agreed to let you organise the exchange rather than dictate the rest of the deal.  So, I trust you will agree it is in your interests to complete this deal with the minimum of fuss?>>
 
***
 
#34

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-09-16/1345:29>

Isaint replied to Torrent (team included): <<Thanks for the safe house. Regarding going our own way: It wasn't us that changed the rules midgame. The explosives are an insurance against any attempts of foul play. Making us use an unsecured diagnose tool has earned our client some serious distrust. He could have just sent someone with a hazmat suit instead of this whole shit show.
Good news about the exchange - he doesn't even need to meet us in person. I'll sent you details later, but in essence he gets the object + an armed bomb. If he sends us the money he'll receive the disarming code. Any third party interfering or double crosses will result in an expanding cloud of artifact.
We'll go dark for the moment. We'll contact you after we regrouped.>>
With that he once again rebooted and headed for the self storage.

Once he had a chance to check on his various transports as well as his own bio monitor he told the team:
"Good news, bad news time: Good news: Dog-Al is clean. According to the readouts he is completely clean - no FAB anymore. The bad news: I myself seem to have still an infection - and probably the rest of you too. Maybe it only worked because the ward discharged into he hound. Obviously this is no solution for us - we aren't dual natured and even though some of us can enter that state, it would knock us out completely.
Good news, the antibiotics I and you took seem to work - at least that's what my gizmos tell me. Bad news, in a few hours we'll probably feel like shit - especially since those FAB strains were developed from E. Coli bacteria. Those can do a real number on your intestinal tract.
Good news, as you read probably our Johnson still wants the goods and even lets us decide how we handle it. Bad news, we'll have to content with a third party who most likely has a serious leg up on us regarding information gathering. I don't pretend to understand how this Resonance stuff works that Technos use, but I've been told they have access to deeper layers of the matrix where they can extract information even if it was previously deleted completely. Covering our tracks will be extra hard and we have to assume that we'll face physical, matrix and magic based threats.

So we can either hole up in the safe house Torrent is organizing for us until we have beaten this FAB shit, or we do this transaction before we all develop rear mounted rocket propulsion."

#352

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <05-10-16/0012:48>

Jackhammer was usually pretty silent around folks he felt were smarter than him, and that was at least half of this gang. But he'd fallen especially quiet for the rest of their trip to the surface, and even to Angels. Something wasn't right. That... *thing* was giving him a headache. And making him a bit queasy. He started feeling a little bit faint, and kept wiping sweat from his brow. He tried to convince himself he was just out of shape, but something was definitely eating at him. Had to be that stupid head-thing.

Then came the scans. He was having trouble keeping up with the discourse, but he picked up enough to figure out something had gone wrong. "Still sick? No wonder..." He let the medkit work on him a bit, and it helped him feel a bit more sturdy, but by this time his guts hurt as much as his head. Then there was some kind of business with a magic wall, but he didn't even have to walk through it before Isaint declared it wasn't working. While everyone else talked about what to do, including some foreign woman that had apparently shown up at some point, Jackhammer put as much brass as he could summon into walking up to Robyn and tapping her shoulder. He was careful this time though, just slowly tapping with a finger to avoid any accidental contact. He was even feeling too sick to be embarrassed at the recollection of that incident earlier.

"Uh, hey doc?" He said, trying to sound nonchalant, "Got anything for a headache?" Though he did his best to hide the extent of his sickness, he was clearly distracted and even slightly discolored.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-10-16/0241:06>

Deckard kept bragging about his mastery of telekinesis but was just being ignored. To his dismay iSaint usurped his moment by gathering what he knew of spellcasting and lifted the hound by himself. Now part of Deckard was proud of his friend for showing how well he had learnt under Deckard's teaching, but then, the pupil just stole the master's thunder.

Once everyone had gone through the barrier, he shrugged and dropped it.

As everyone was taking their place in or on their respective rides, he listened carefully to ISaint's news.

I must say sharing a safehouse with probably just one rudimentary bathroom with 3 or four sick people in it is not something I look forward to, and on top of that the longer we keep this thing uncontained the more I feel it will corrupt the mana around. So that would be acting fast before we get all blunt of the sickness. But on the other hand, should we encounter opposition, it would be crazy to confront anyone while we all get a fever.

He pondered for a second. We don't know what the opposition is going to be. Going there unprepared and sick would be risky.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-10-16/0325:04>

Robyn stands to place her fingers on Jackhammer and hooks him up to her medkit's diagnostic tool.  She smiles at him and parcels out some modern headache powders, knowing that the effect will almost certainly not last long.  Turning to the others, she says, "Hey, may I please counsel that the meds in the kits are only bloody stop-gap measures.  I recommend a visit to a mainstream medical hospital.  I serve as a visiting surgeon at London General and I do know people there.  We do not seem to be contagious any longer.  So far, my medical recommendations are not going very far.  I strongly recommend either going back Below to the Market and getting the mages, or other mages, to finish the job they started, or go to hospital for the proper meds.  In a few hours, all of us might be feeling like fragging crap and unable to defend ourselves or the artifact."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-10-16/0345:20>

"I guess we don't have much of a choice then. Even though I'd prefer a hospital, magic is the faster solution. And we need fast solutions. Do you think you can convince those mages to come topside for a house visit? Say a down payment of 5000 for their inconveniences.

If that isn't possible we'll have to use plan B: We'll stash the statue somewhere with a remote trigger and a motion trigger as well as a drone to keep watch. Than as I laid out to the Johnson, we get the payment and he gets the disarming code. Al, I think you'll be more than able to rig up a detonator that is hard enough to disarm that not even a nova hot matrix jockey will dare to mess with it. Likewise Robyn, I'll expect you'll be able to rig up a databomb strong enough to fry anyones gear who tries to mess with the setup.

That gives us time to meet the mages at the entrance to Below, get healed and be ready to tackle the second part of this operation."
Isaint replied.
"Any one got a better idea, I'm all ears."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-10-16/0430:09>

Al's mind started turning over nefarious detonator failsafes to confound and bamboozle any would-be defusers.

He also said: "Well, we could jist figure out what meds we need an' order 'em fer drone delivery."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-10-16/1009:58>

Robyn shakes her head at Al's recommendation.  "That is possible, Al.  but even my name might not be enough if the meds are controlled substances.  We would still need to have the diagnostic data sent to the hospital for analysis.  It is possible, though, and I am willing to try it."  She also sends a note to the mage she has the comm code for, outlining ISaint's offer.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-10-16/1459:27>

No offense, but Magic isn't  able to sure everything, believe me, I've had a acquaintance used that Spell before, and it wasn't enough to cure my wife. And the antibiotics will help our body fight the disease faster and more efficiently but I doubt they will be able to act before we suffer the first symptoms. In any case, it's gonna take some time before Robyn can get her hands on it, and it being delivered to us. So I press that we should really get going. It is very likely there are already people on their way now that the Bomb image is in the wild.

He turned toward the japanese woman who was silently waiting for the drone to depart. Ms. Karasu. Shinto Priestess. Would you happen to know of any place we could all lay low for a short time? They may know of us and anticipate where we may go, but you didn't come here because of Torrent. Maybe you're the 'unexpected card' we can play to throw the opposition off?

 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-10-16/1645:24>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

"Please, I am so sorry but Torrent-San also I work with and normally who I would ask."

Do I want to risk it? It is a great gamble.

Of course I will.

"I may be able to find a place without Torrent-San. You will be putting great trust in me, do you all wish this?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-10-16/1757:59>

No would have been Deckard first and simple answer. He didn't trust the priestess a bit. She was supposedly sent by Iris to help us, yet Iris had disappeared and no word of her about the Japanese woman either. Plus her silence had too remained suspicious.
But Deckard had always embraced Chaos. Trap or not, that would be an unexpected move, and one to possibly throw off their opposition.

The Magician looked at ISaint. What do you say, boss?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-10-16/1931:22>

Al looked up from where he was affixing multiple radio detonators to the statue. His fingers were trembling and he was sweating. Working right next to the thing was reminding him how much he hated Satanism and its cousin, idol worship.

He interrupted with his opinion. "Hell, ain't no way the other side gon' guess our next move, cuz we don't hardly know it ourselves. But I reckon Karasu-san's a straight shooter. Bit standoffish I don't mind sayin', but good as 'er word. All them Japanese types is real inta they honor an' so forth."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-10-16/1944:52>

Deckard listened to Al, nodded and added. It works for me.

I don't mean to say they would guess where we are going, but the two options we have are places we've been already, and thus stand a chance, even if very unlikely, to be compromised. 

Now Ms. Karasu, I hope that place will have some somewhat comfortable beds, pads, couches or what not, because we're soon going to feel like drek.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-11-16/0206:39>

Robyn listens to the byplay while waiting for some sort of reply from the mage in the Market or from ISaint telling her to contact the hospital.  Her face remains passive throughout and she does not interrupt anyone.  She is curious about the motives of the Misuhama operative, which is what she considers the Japanese woman to be at this point, but spends her time collecting the diagnostic data into one file so she can send it on to the hospital at once if she is given permission to do so.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-11-16/0251:46>

"Sure, if you can order and administer the Antibiotics outside the hospital, there is no reason not to. But be aware that our communications could be compromised, so order them to a dead drop where we can retrieve them.

About the place form Mrs. Karasu: That entirely depends on where and what this place is. Please tell us more about that option."
Isaint replied a bit tiredly. He too felt the onset of fatigue.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-11-16/0339:55>

Robyn pulls out a burner 'link and sends a text to her physician friend, explaining the problem and asking if he can prescribe the necessary meds for her team.    She asks if a drone delivery can be arranged and if so, she will tell him where the drop off point is to be.  She emphasizes that time is of the essence and would he please give this some effort.  She knows what he will want for payment if he is able to do this favor, and she hints in the text that she is ready to repeat their last encounter.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-11-16/1210:39>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

"A Greater London Metropolitan Police Gangs and Organized Crime Unit safehouse?"

I wait.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-11-16/1329:27>

"Groovy baby, stickin' it to the Man. Squattin' inna fuzz's own house. Some things, they got a poetry ya jist can't say no to."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-11-16/1637:26>

"That sounds like it could lead to an instant arrest. Are you sure the police won't mind us setting up shop there? What exactly is your relation to the Metropolitan? Can you guarantee that it will be a no questions asked arrangement?

If yes, we can certainly consider it."
Isaint answered

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-11-16/1834:03>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

"I guarantee nothing except that any questions asked of me by the Metropolitan Police regarding yourselves and the safe house I will not answer. The rest is up to you."

Ah, I almost said that in command mode. I must be careful. They seek reassurances which is natural but I cannot give it to them. I am after all not responsible for their own actions which may imperil themselves. The Unclean Hound may bark in the night. They may scream in pain during their forthcoming suffering. They may speak openly of things that should not be said aloud, especially where the wrong ears may hear it. They may rave during their fevers. They may not take appropriate precautions.

I could guarantee it, but they would not like it, and would never work with me again. The only certainty is Death.

I switch to gentle mode.

"Please, I understand if you wish to avoid using my connections. If you do wish my assistance, it will take a short time to arrange and the sooner I start the sooner we can be safe. You must decide soon if I am to be of use to you."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-12-16/0349:48>

"So in other words, your safe house is not a safe place for us to recuperate and you don't have any special favor with the Police that would make them overlook our presence there. We'd be relying on blind luck that no officer notices a band of shadowrunners squatting in one of their safe houses.

Personally, I'm not comfortable with that prospect.
I'd rather take Torrents offer - there at least we won't risk burning perfectly good SINs, even if we have a higher chance of being discovered.
But since we won't be taking the artifact with us, it's less likely for anyone to seek us out.

Speaking of which, I want to hear ideas from all of you where we can stage the hand off. I'm thinking isolated areas where an exploding idol won't do much harm to civilians. Ideally also a place where there already is a background count that can mask the statues emanations.
Like here, Chiswick Cemetery. Those get closed after dark and we can easily hide the statue while still giving a precise location to our client.

What do you say?"
Isaint asked his fellow chummers.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-12-16/0950:01>

Robyn chimes in with her vote, "The cemetery sounds good to me.  I am afraid that the drugs we need to use are controlled very tightly and a drone delivery is not possible.  We need to go to the doctor to get them.  That means a likely SIN check.  Would that be an issue for anyone?  I am still waiting for return messages from the doctor I know Below that helped put me back together once as she may have access to such drugs."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-12-16/1054:53>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

Blind Luck? Insulting. Luck runs as I will it.

"Please, I beg of you, if I am of no use to you with my connections to find a safe house or deliver illegal drugs, then let me remove myself before you speak further of your plans."

And away from the sickness!

"I am afraid I was not clear earlier, but I also fear I cannot please you. The safehouse would have been arranged so that while obviously my contact would be aware of you presence and use of it, you would all be anonymous and provided with an excellent cover story. One that gives a reason both to hide and to seek respite for healing. I believed you would have the skills to behave appropriately and not break that cover, and the experience to overcome the nominal surveillance, however I choose not to guarantee your behavior. I do not know you well enough for that."

I bow.

I walk away.

"If you seek the Blessing of Purification and the Rites of Healing I can be found at the Shrine of Blue Azelias."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-12-16/1405:36>

As the Japanese woman walked away, Al put down his soldering iron, shoved his pull-detonator into a jacket pocket, and caught up to her, the cable leaving a trail behind him back to the explosives.

Breath stinking of cigarettes and general lack of hygiene, he addressed her in Japanese. His abuse of the proper conjugations and honorifics grated on her ears, much like his sandpaper growl of a voice, but he was readily understandable and she knew he used her language in a clumsy attempt at respect.

"Hey, it'll be our loss if you choose to go. Trust comes slowly for these people - though I think that's been a two-way street - but I can tell you that the three I know well will stand by a comrade to the very end. On the other hand, perhaps the timing has been bad - we are not helping you find Iris, but instead exposing you to at least five major dangers just by our presence. But once we rid ourselves of this albatross, we will be returning Below for a job that will be much more suited to your skills. And since we are still supposedly meeting Iris down there, it could be a win-win. So I would pray for you to stay now and let us earn one another's trust, despite our different paths. But if that is not your choice, please consider returning Below with us for our next job."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-13-16/0138:45>

Can I remind you again, blowing this thing up is a BAD idea. And i'm not too keen on the Cemetery idea either. Mind you, I appreciate the thought process, balancing the background count  particularly. But those tombs are sometimes the only thing left of a loved one. Destroying them would be a devastating blow to those who already have lost a lot.  Plus Spirits are quite keen on their body's resting place. It can be a can of worm to bring that evil thing there.

Deckard seemed very passionate about it.

There are however other abandoned places with a pretty negative imprint already.  London has had its share of catastrophes...

The Japanese Priestess started to leave and Al ran after her.

Deckard lean close to ISaint. I think you pissed her off...  never lost your touch with women...



#65

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-13-16/0209:41>

Robyn has been sitting near her unconscious Hell Hound companion, listening to what the others are saying.  Her hearing picks up every word of the conversations around her as she waits for word back from the hospital, the mage, or the doctor in Below.  She dares not sink back into VR if the team is going to be moving soon, so she assigns her agents to research the Nexus archives for any information about the disease.  She sends a message to her Evo handler, >>Mister Brown.  Robyn Lysander.  Can you try to get some information for me, please?  I have been approached by a woman calling herself Yukika Karasu.  I recognize her from a couple of meetings I have had with a senior Mitsuhama executive named Nobu Harakira.  She was in the background in those meetings, but my opinion is that Nobu Harakira does not include people in his meetings without a purpose.  Do you have any information on her that you can share with me?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-13-16/0900:04>

The priestess sudden flight attempt caught Isaint unprepared. To Rick he murmured: "I should have known better than to talk to a Japanese woman that hangs around Below. That's like three things already against me."

Louder he said: "I see where you are coming from and I'm open for concrete counter proposals. But the explosion part is only meant as a precaution - ideally the statue will neither explode nor will anyone - the spirits at included - be inconvenienced long by the statue. If it works the thing will be gone within an hour. Also we don't have to take an active cemetery. We could use one of the WWII ones - there probably won't be any grieving families when a headstone is flattened by a blast.
Remember, our Johnson seems to be a bit nervous and a prissy pants at that - a cemetery we can probably sell to him, a waste disposal site will be harder."

To Karasu he called: "Hey, how about you explain this stuff in detail and don't make us play 20 questions while you scamper off after question 2. We are trying to make informed decisions here."
The words had left his mouth before his inner censor could react: 'You really know how to make friends and influence people. Why don't you run after her and knock her over the head for good measure?'

#357

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-13-16/1416:55>

Having said his piece to Karasu-san, Al went back to his idol-bomb.

Catching Deckard's eye, he said quietly, "Listen kemo sabe, I hear yer concerns. But ol' Al's the one gon' be drivin' 'round with the thing, so even though I don't give a rat's ass about what gits released or whose grave gits desecrated, I still reckon I'm a lot more motivated than you ta make sure it never comes ta that. But mark my words, though, I'll blow that baby up an' me with it afore I let some threat-spoutin' asshole have his way with me or mine." 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-13-16/1752:20>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Angel's, West End, London]

The Dirty Old Cheater vouches for them. I acknowledge him. I cannot help myself, I touch him. I am certain he notices.

"Venerable one, we have faced each other where the outcome is uncertain, neh? You pray. I answer."

I barely put the detonator back in The Dirty Old Cheaters pocket before he turns away to comfort the Sorceror. I cannot keep it. It has a wire.

My feet hurt. Riding the medical drone will give them a rest.

I approach.

"Please, I do not think you have time for 18 more questions. This place is known to your enemies. You will be less vulnerable while you move even if you have no destination."

I bow. Eyes on feet.

I move back to the drone. I enter. I speak, I know they can hear me.

"I have connections through whom I can deliver a safehouse. Any safehouse I find will be in someone else's control. You may decide if this is more or less safe for you. For the least likely location associated to you I would have traded two favors. It would be like a game of Cho Han Bakuchi. Both favors would need to turn in my direction to achieve a desired result. Or in terms you understand, it would be a crap shoot."

I never lose at Cho Han.

"Please, I will attend you while you recover."

I have even more dirt on my hakama.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-13-16/1802:15>

 Deckard''s palm landed on his own face when he heard ISaint calling out the Priestess. The man could hide in plain sight, but his tact was plain 'in your face' and for sure upsetting the opposing party... the Mage had to admit though, he liked the blunt honesty and the Chaos that ensure after.


He looked and listen to Al before answering.
I fully believe you my friend. And because of that, it's exactly the reason why I fear for the bomb to detonate.

Let's do it though. The longer we stay here the more time we give them to get to us. I agree with our Priestess, we'll be safer on the move.

And her safe house will be as good as any.

He looked at ISaint, acknowledging he was going to make the final decision as the designated leader of the group.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-13-16/1935:36>

Al double-checked the connections to his pull-detonator (which he'd now have to check over once he was in his car) and nodded at Jackhammer.

Together they put it back in the crate and with some effort put it back on Al's homemade trolley.

"Lady's right - decide where we's headed now or decide on the road, this thing's rigged an' now it's time ta move. This place is a bull's eye, an' I want as few of ya as possible near this thing anyway. So give a shout when ya know where we's headed."

He glanced at Robyn. If his eyes were flesh instead of high-end polymers, there might have been something there.

Then he started rolling the trolley out to his car.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-14-16/0652:00>

"Fine, let's get a move to this safe house. I don't mind getting my deposit back for this lot.
Ok, I think I know where we can do this. Brookwood cemetery. It's outside London, closes at 16:30 and has a part that is exclusively filled with historic war graves. Security should be low enough for us to get in and out without a fuss. As soon as we have set up shop in the safe house, we can take care of that.
Or better yet - we go there now. That will give Mrs. Karasu time to get our accommodations ready."

When no-one had anymore objections, Kynos once again set a course for the VTOL drone as well as Arthur and went out to his bike.

"Robyn, be a dear and set up the strongest Databomb you can for the file I'm sending you and depot it somewhere accessible in the matrix. When the time comes, I want only our Mr. Johnson to be able to open it."

#358

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-15-16/0243:14>

Robyn listens to the Japanese woman speak and tries one more time to be friendly.  Bowing, she says, Yukika Karasu, I am familiar with Cho Han and would enjoy playing with you if we have a chance."

She turns to ISaint to answer his question.  "I will do my best to secure the file."  As she heads to the vehicle she is to ride in, Robyn says, "Al, please do be careful with that thing.  I am looking forward to that date you promised me."  Once in the vehicle, she sits back and relaxes for the ride.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-15-16/0500:31>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Leaving Angel's, West End, London]

I answer the Unclean Hound Mistress.

"Perhaps. Maybe some Hanafuda, though the old man prefers poker."

We move.

Finally.

I make my moves. First to collect the pieces. I make my calls. I know they will listen. They should. Everyone else listens.

I make my call to Uncle Murashi in the clear, as usual. Though I use a priority override code so he will answer. It is a one time code so it does not matter that they listen to me.

"Uncle... Yes, you will gain good favor if you Burn an offering to the Shrine of the Silver Hart tonight... Yes, tonight... Yes the offering agreed... Thank you Uncle."

I hope the favor I must perform will be a reasonable one. With Uncle I never know. There was the one favor with peacocks and the Yacht Club I hope we never do again.

I make the next call. This will be much more challenging. I make my play.

I enter the commcode, this time there is no override, but he will answer, because he thinks he should. I told him so.

"Beeeeeennnnn! It's Yuki! I've been waiting 5 minutes! Are you standing me up again!... Ten minutes? Ok." I disconnect. Ben understands. He needs ten minutes to get to the spot.

I command the Kami. I speak aloud so the others may hear. I know they can listen to what I say in this flying prison.

"Rat, serve me and I will leave you an offering of sweet rice balls at the Autumn Harvest Shrine. Go to the roof of the Pink Marble Gargoyle House and reveal yourself to the Orange Blossom Cigar Smoking Man and speak to him the words I give you.... very well, sweet bean buns instead of rice balls."

I wait. We are moving.

The time comes and I make my play. I say the words aloud so they can hear me.

"Yes Ben, this Kami speaks for me. It is secure. I have friends who need your help. They are hurt and afraid and given their situation I thought of you. Well, yes, I do think of you at other times. Please, my friends, they suffer. They have been set upon by a gang. Yes, you know them, the Neon Blades. No not all of them, one group in Hammersmith. Yes, that one. My friends did not give in to their demands and were beaten. No, they will not testify. They are afraid... Yes, I know... They do know what the Neon Blades will be doing... Yes, but first, my friends need a place to stay where they cannot be found... Yes, a safe house... For two days while I take care of them...The information... The Neon Blades will be making a delivery run through... Oh. Beetles... No, not Japanese Beetles, BTLs...The delivery is at the Bull and Bear... Yes that one. Tonight, 9... I understand...If you do not catch them tonight you will need them to testify... I will convince them, but first they must heal... very well... No it is my duty to serve...Thank you Ben."

Rat is gone. I summon another Kami to attend me.

I share the address and access codes with the others. I speak to them.

"Please, you are a group of informants who have given a tip to Met and will be staying in a safe house until you recover from your beating. I have arranged for a group of Neon Blades to be arrested carrying illicit items. If the Blades are caught, which I expect to happen given the commands they have been given and the usual competence of the Met, then Ben will not need to use your testimony and you are welcome to the use of the safehouse in exchange for your service to the Public Good."

Senji should not have gotten so drunk at the Spring Festival in front of Uncle. Even in prison he will serve. He should not have kissed me.

"If you can disable instead of destroying the standard surveillance at the Safe House it will cost me less."

This flying prison is making my feet feel better.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-15-16/1135:32>

Robyn smiles and her spirits pick up a bit.  "I have a very nice Hanfuda deck.  It is printed in Braille so I can "see" the cards.  Poker, eh?  I love playing poker.  Perhaps when we have some time.  I am still hoping that I will get a call from the hospital and can go pick up some medicine for us." 

Robyn is disappointed that she has not heard back from any of her contacts yet.  While waiting in the vehicle, she examines the file sent to her by ISaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-16-16/0302:03>

The file Isaint had sent was short and to the point:
"You find the object at Brookwood cemetery. The exact location is marked outside the north entrance, pinned under the right gate hinge. The object is secured with a device. As soon as we have confirmation for transaction, you'll receive the code to remove the device safely. Beware of any Winter people, you are likely to be shadowed (Just in case you didn't already know that).
Best regards
The team"

Isaint for his part relied on the micro transceivers for communication: "Ok, now that we are on the road again, we'll do the hand off  quickly - until we are done the safe house should be ready.
Robin, your super brain will likely remember exactly what the first sentence was our Johnson said to us. Use that as the password for the file I sent you.
[spoiler]Johnson: "Right, let’s get down to business as all seven of you are here."
[/spoiler]
Hopefully that will be enough to ensure no-one can intercept the content of the message.
We'll do this like we did the break in: Robin you are on overwatch outside. Jackhammer you keep an eye on her. Mrs. Karasu, you do what you do best and get the Kami on our side. The rest of us goes inside and finds a likely temporary resting place for our cargo. Rick, we'll again need a bit of concealment - although going into a historic cemetery after closing hour shouldn't be that tough we won't take any risks. Any questions, requests or ideas for improvement?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-16-16/0328:39>

Robin grins in the vehicle.  "I remember every word, yes.  And so do you, apparently.  My question is whether the Johnson will.  Are you sure you want me to use this phrase as the password?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-16-16/0339:38>

"I always make a note of the first thing a Johnson says to me - it helps to confirm identity later.
If he doesn't it won't exactly elevate my opinion of him, but if needed we can just give him a hint or tell him directly."
replied Isaint.

#360

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-16-16/0826:00>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; On the road, London]

Mr J, or Findley perhaps, agrees to your precautions readily enough with payment upon verification.  Whether he takes the threat of Winter seriously or not is impossible to tell but hopefully that will shortly be his problem!

The graveyard, when you reach it, is suitably abandoned, even the druggies and drop outs have vacated to more endearing parts in the wake of the light summer rain that is freshening the otherwise laden air.  Both astral, technological and visual surveillance doesn’t highlight anything out of the ordinary, certainly no waiting Techno strike team or corp hit squad.

As soon as the artefact is deposited and you back away the magic users, and Al, immediately feel a lightening of spirit as the mana warping effects recede with distance.  It would seem that you are clear…now it is down to J to come through and you to get the other monkey off your backs – your FAB infections…

***

#35

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-16-16/1516:20>

Isaint had just jammed the little piece of electronic paper with the exact placement of the artifact - just under a loose pile of dirt next to a large oak about 20 m down the main path - when he noticed another small bout of nausea. It went away again, but there was a persistent pressure inside his skull now.
"Time to get to our resting place - or lets better say our place for recuperation.
Ok Mrs. Karasu, where to now?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-16-16/1600:02>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; On the road, London]

I resend the address and access codes. I did some research, it appears to be an old commercial enterprise in Harrow. A row of semi industrial units with attached residential quarters. This one looks like it was used for vehicle and drone repair and storage, though it is now empty.

"Here it is. In Harrow."

Maybe I can wash my pants there and get this dirt out.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-16-16/1746:37>

Al drove away from the cemetery, his lips wrapped in a smile of self-congratulation around his cigarette.

Not really caring much about money these days (or ever), he kind of half-hoped the Johnson or Winter or someone tried to double-cross them and defuse his little masterpiece.

First he'd salvaged his pull detonator. That was the work of seconds, since it had never been live in the first place. There were things in this world worth dying for, but some creepy idol from a forgotten basement was not one of them, and neither was pride. Of course, he'd never let a soul know he'd been bluffing - asshole Johnsons wasted less time on silly threats when dealing with crazy people.

A remote detonation, though...he had no qualms about that whatsoever.

If they went at it physically, they were in for a treat: not only had he used both a mercury switch and a pendulum to detonate the device in case it was handled, but just to be a dickhead he'd quickly welded some scraps of beer can in a light casing around it.

Of course the three radio detonators were set to bypass the anti-handling apparatus, in order that the J could take receipt safely if he made the payment. Al had used the best radio detonators on the market, but knew even with added encryption provided by Alyce they could be subverted by Winter. So he'd taken the whole array analog. All three detonators had to be deactivated. But he'd physically shunted the circuits so that simultaneous deactivation was electrically impossible. And then he'd set the charge so that if the deactivation took place in any but the correct sequence of the three...well...heh heh....and since the only place the deactivation sequence existed was in his and Isaint's gray matter, anyone that tried to hack his little creation faced five-to-one odds of goodbye dingus (and anyone in the neighborhood).

Now if only someone would be so clever about a way to stop everyone from getting sick...because as good as he now felt leaving that cursed whatsit in his rearview, his muscles, joints and gut were feeling worse by the second. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <05-16-16/2230:16>

Jackhammer felt strange in the old cemetery. He hadn't been in one for probably ten years, and before all this business with the demonic idol thing, he hadn't planned on being in another until they hauled his cold corpse into it in a box. He chuckled slightly at the thought of some pasty humans trying to haul him to an open grave, but then frowned when he realized they'd probably just use a loading drone.

On the drive to the safe house, Jackhammer kept replaying over and over in his head something Robyn had said before. Something about a date--with Al? He was trying to figure out what possible appointment they might have together, but couldn't come up with anything besides another 'run. "But she didn't mention Isaint, and neither of them volunteered me or the other guys... Can you do a shadowrun without a whole team? It must be something small..." Some part of his brain joked that it was a "date" date, but that mostly just confused him and didn't end up being as funny as he would have wished. He found himself staring at the small chain-smoking man, a look of bewilderment plastered on his face. All he could manage to say was, "I think I'm going to be sick."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-17-16/0340:21>

"Whoa there, amigo. You squawk you walk, buckeroo. Just detailed this baby."

It was a ridiculous thing to say about a car strewn with cigarette butts and fast food containers, with a floor so sticky you risked losing a foot with every step you took.

But the fact was, Al was pretty sure that if the big ork hurled, he would too.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-17-16/0904:50>

Isaint was the last to reach the address although he had been the first to mount his bike and drive off. A large plastic bag hung from the side when he arrived:
"Just a few necessities for us all, plus some bleach and spray bottles. I hope you all like dry crackers with salt and isotonic sportsdrinks."
Taking off his helmet, Isaint now sported an impressive Iro-haircut and a long drawn biker mustache as well as the high cheekbones of a native american.
"Robyn, be a dear and take care of the sensor suit inside before we enter.
You all make sure to have our transports parked somewhere discreet and in flight direction. I'll leave Arthur in the Morgan to keep an eye on our stuff."

#362

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-17-16/1016:13>

Robyn stays in the vehicle and slips into VR to go look for the security systems.  It takes her little time to find what she is looking for and she slides seamlessly into the sensor net, fooling it into seeing nothing out of the ordinary for the span of several minutes.  Slipping back into the meat world, she enters the building and goes to the weak spot she had found, making a direct connection to the security system and setting up a continuous loop indicating nothing was amiss at the site.  After all is secure, she lets ISaint and the others know it is safe to enter, but that she will need to remain jacked into the connection to maintain the ruse.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-18-16/0253:55>

Robyn breaks the silence.  "Hey, the hospital can help, but the drugs are tightly controlled.  A good SIN would be a necessity for treatment.  I have a valid and good SIN, as well as access to the hospital.  Would you like me to go get treated and see if I can bring some drugs back or is that too much of a risk to everyone here?  It is possible that the authorities would be interested in knowing what happened and want to ask a bunch of questions."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-18-16/0309:56>

Still outside Isaint said:
"Personally, I really can't risk letting them get ahold of my DNA - I have a real identity with a family I need to protect. I'll need to tough this out - but if you can go to a confidential hospital without risk you sure should consider it.
But you are right: The London police will soon be on the lookout for anyone showing signs of this particular infection. We inadvertently sprayed it in an entrance way to one of Europe's largest shopping centers. And although you might get away with saying you were there just for shopping, there is a real chance they'll connect you with the "music group" that broke through a security checkpoint.
That was the main reason I'd rather use mages from Below than a hospital."
Isaint replied while he entered the house.
Quickly he made his way through the different rooms, checking for exits and entrances, recording a map for easy tactics transmission and looked for any other surveillance equipment.
<<Just a heads up: No conversation in here about anything more pertinent than the weather. If you need to converse about something, use subvocal, DNI, write or take your conversation partner outside. Just because we think we took care of surveillance doesn't mean we have.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-18-16/0324:20>

Robyn shakes her head.  "No, I need to remain here to keep control of the security systems unless you want me to burn them and that would seem a bit rude to our friends.  But we are going to get real sick pretty fast.  The mages might be able to help, but their services are not cheap and the spells are very powerful.  I can try to arrange for us to meet them or guide them to us, if you like."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-18-16/1308:04>

Having set up an "emergency exit" that led to where his car was parked, Al flopped down onto a stiff bed and blew smoke at the ceiling as he tapped out a text to Isaint and the team: <<Who said anything about using a hospital. If Robyn can suss what we need, we sneak in and we take it. Can't be harder than stealing a cursed dingus from under a high-security mall, and we just did that. And before you enumerate all the risks, weigh those risks against the risk of just sitting here getting sicker with an untreated ailment we don't understand. And then remember what profession you're in.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-18-16/1341:05>

<<Good point Al. I'm game to do this, provided Robyn knows or can find out how to administer the stuff and someone can find out quickly where the nearest stash is to be found - preferably not from a hospital but a pharmacy. I wouldn't want to take meds from a place where they would be in immediate demand to save someones life. Not to mention the risk of collateral damage at such a place.>>
Isaint had noticed that his body temperature now was at 37.7° C. Not good.
<<But we don't need to rely on only one solution: Robyn confirm the request of those mages. 5000 to show up and another 5000 if they can cure the team.
Finally, since we had a successful animal test: If nothing else works, we'll need to source some Deep Weed. That stuff makes even mundanes dual natured and open for the astral. After that we can do the mana barrier trick again. For that I ask you Mrs. Karasu to start working on such a barrier strong enough to overwhelm us and the bacteria. We'll compensate you for the necessary reagents. It's necessary Rick, otherwise you'd be the only one who can't get himself sorted out since you always can pass through your barriers without intersecting.>>

#364

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-18-16/2024:54>

Robyn nods and sends a message to the mage she had contacted earlier.  >>Hello.  You helped me and my companions out of a particular fix a few hours ago.  It appears that the virus took on a mutated form of some kind and your cleansing was only partially successful.  I would like to ask if you are willing to come and do a further cure.  I am willing to front 5000 nuyen just to show up and another 5000 to cure us.  Please respond quickly.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-19-16/0539:06>

While Robyn was occupied arranging the mage's help, he set his own network on the task to find where a suitable stash of the super antibiotics could be found.
After inquiring the brand name from Robin, he set his Agent cluster from defense to search mode. Hopefully this wouldn't take long...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-19-16/2307:03>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Francis Road Safe House, Former German Auto Dealership, Harrow, London]

The Kami recites an endless list of junk as I wash my pants. At least there was some detergent and the washer works. The Unclean Hound Mistress is busy using her skills in our service and cannot play. In fact they are all busy making plans and wondering how sick they are. I consider my plans.

I make a request. <<Deckard-san did you bring lodge materials with you?>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-20-16/1032:30>

He hadn't quite finished the thought when his commlink chirped. His Agent spoke with a silky voice:

<<Search concluded.
Found... one target fulfilling the specified parameters.
Listing: Pharma-Tech Ltd.  (https://drive.google.com/open?id=1VFcZbE97PvPGp-gTKIV7afRiw_M&usp=sharing), Mellis Ave, London.

- has a confirmed stash of Gamma-Acyldepsipeptid (y-ADEPS) antibiotics
- has a confirmed contract with... Hard Corps Security - a subsidiary of Ares Inc.
-- Warning! Heavy Security at target site - confirmed municipal contract for 24 permanent guards due to sensitive bio-hazard materials on site.
-- Rating 7 security host, heavy drone presence.

Do you wish to order a Doc Waggon Contract Y/N?>>

'Oh right, just what we needed'

Isaint almost wanted to speak out loud, but remembered his own order:
<<Good news, bad news time: My agent cluster just found a place that has our medicine. Bad news, it's a heavily secured warehouse in western London. And with heavily secured I mean Hard Corps Security - Thats the guys Ares pulls out when they know they need people with heavy weapon experience. Expect some strong matrix security likewise. Only thing they probably don't have is a ritual mage circle.>>

#366

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-20-16/1037:16>

Robyn adds a message of her own.  >>I have made contact with the mages.  They can help us, but they are unwilling to come to the Overworld.  They can come as close as possible and then we meet them Below.  This might be the safest way to do this.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-21-16/0609:09>

"Well crap onna cracker. Ya ask me, Satanists plus Below is a one turd plus one turd makes three turds sorta thing. But I ain't fer sittin' 'round waitin', an' this drug place I wanted ta rob, well, even one feller goes ta work tryin' ta put food on 'is table doesn't go home to 'is kids cuz o' ol' Al, well, that'd be one too many. So reckon I vote fer the Satanists."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-22-16/0419:44>

<<Damn. We'll have to be very careful if we have to meet Below - and not just because of the inherent lawlessness of the place. There could be some very poor reactions if someone found out that we are infected with a magic disease.

And Al, please commlink only. I wouldn't give up on the place just yet. We should at least have a spirit do some recon. The thing is located right next to the Thames. A combination of stealth, magic and less lethal weaponry could get us in and out without anyone getting hurt.

Rick, Mrs. Karasu, if one of you would be so kind as to send someone.>>
Isaint replied. He felt a slight tugging in his bowels. 'Stop thinking that every twinge is a symptom. That's a sure fire way to get really sick. Stay positive'

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-23-16/1435:55>

Deckard couldn't tell if the persistent headache he had was from the painful casting of the Mana Barrier back at the Angel's, or the proof the bacteria was already starting to debilitate him.
He had to either rest or distract himself with some action. The problem, and they all knew it, was that the clock was ticking.

Quote from: DireRadiant on <05-19-16/2307:03>

<<Deckard-san did you bring lodge materials with you?>>

No, I-san didn't bring my lodge; would be too much to carry around. I have enough Reagent on me to create a temporary one, but by the time I'll be done I'll probably be on the deathbed from the disease we carry. Do you need Reagents? I can certainly provide you with some if they are of any use to you. 

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <05-22-16/0419:44>

Rick, Mrs. Karasu, if one of you would be so kind as to send someone.>>[/color]

I think I prefer going there myself. I'll do a quick Astral reckon while my brain still works. Yukika-san, if you want to send a 'Kami' of your along I'm fine for some company.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-23-16/1654:19>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Francis Road Safe House, Former German Auto Dealership, Harrow, London]

I call for a Kami. Winter Wind answers. I promise an offering at the Shrine of Summer Breezes, strange as it seems. I introduce Winter Wind to Deckard-San. I command Winter Wind to serve Deckard-San.

<<Please everyone, I am sorry, Deckard-San does have what we need, it will take a reagent and one hour to prepare a temporary shrine and another hour to create a Circle of Protection. For every two hours the strength of the protection increases. The temporary Shrine only has affect till the rise and fall of the sun so the timing is very important. Please let me know if you wish to commit to this ritual?>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-24-16/0104:10>

Robyn texts, >>For what it is worth, my two nuyen is to go to the mages and get healed.  No muss, little fuss, and it is not likely to get anyone killed.  They are already moving to the meeting location.  I have a route planned that would get us to the rendezvous site in about 45 minutes of walking.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-24-16/0501:22>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]
 
A quiet Sunday morning in an out of the way light industrial estate in one of the slightly nicer parts of outer London…it’s even too early for the trains to be running on the tracks alongside.  The sky is lightening with impending dawn but that only serves to highlight the clock ticking above all your heads…
 
As you scope out potential sources of succour and try to ignore the growing sense of ill health Robyn’s sensors alight with the arrival of multiple icons as a local gang swing in to the estate, seemingly at the end of a long carouse… it’s just a little too early in the morning to be convincing, however, and they look just a little too alert.
 
There are twenty three of them, a mix of races, both sexes and all of the bored teenager sub group.  They’ve obviously got an income source as they are all on bikes, either rice rockets or heavier choppers but thankfully, this being the UK, they don’t seem to be carrying firearms…although that’s not to say they are unarmed… with whoops and catcalls they spin around the estate, coincidentally watching all sides of the safehouse building…
 
As you gird yourselves things go from bad to worse to fragging terrible…first a sudden loss of magical strength and then almost instantaneously a massive electromagnetic pulse rocks the electrical foundations of the mesh network fritzing sensors and even disrupting wifi for a moment…as thermal smoke mortar rounds impact around the safehouse you get a brief glimpse of two step vans converging on you from either exit to the estate…
 
[spoiler]
Mana static permanent effect – background count is now 5 in and around the safehouse!
 
Pulse spell – please make a general roll each, 9D for electronics, 16D for computers (ie links and decks), you don’t need to roll for everything, just get a flavour for the impact on your stuff
[/spoiler]
 
***
 
#36
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-24-16/0543:38>

[spoiler]
Pulse Resist Electronics (http://orokos.com/roll/404880): 9d6t5 3 [9d6t5=3, 4, 1, 5, 3, 1, 2, 5, 6]
Pulse Resist Electronics (http://orokos.com/roll/404881): 16d6t5 6 [16d6t5=6, 4, 5, 5, 5, 1, 5, 2, 4, 1, 5, 3, 3, 3, 2, 3]

Leadership test: Leadership (http://orokos.com/roll/404882): 5d6t5 2

AGI 5 + Skill 6 + Aim 1 - Called Shot (engine) 4 - Blind Fire 6 + Focused concentration 3 + Adept centering 4= 9
Shoot w/aim (http://orokos.com/roll/404883): 9d6t5 2 [9d6t5=5, 2, 3, 4, 1, 4, 5, 4, 1]
DV 12P AP-4
Assuming the step van doesn't evade and doesn't soak all damage, it should be out of action

[/spoiler]

It felt a bit like being inside a nightmare, suddenly all of Isaint's gadgets went out or rebooted, a wave of charged mana pressed down on him, muting his reflexes, and dulling the connection to his patron. The smoke was the least of his problems. All his foci - except for his weapon focus where overwhelmed by the static, so he couldn't go astral.
But there were a few abilities they couldn't counter. Fighting the panic inside him he began to bellow orders as if he was back in the army:
"Jackhammer, Rick, Robin, Karasu, get over here to me. Al get ready to engage your emergency exit. We need to get out of this building and to our transports. Run as soon as the wall blows up. I'll start a diversion on the other side. Move, move, move..."

While he talked his hands had retrieved his Ruger Ultra Warhawk and exchanged the ammunition in the cylinder. Now the weapon was filled with 6 shots of hand loaded Ex-Ex bullets. The smartlink hadn't rebooted yet, but the long barrel and the custom grip afforded him a confident aim nonetheless.

When he was sure that his team had gathered around him he called: "Wait until you here me drawing their fire, than get out."
With that Isaint ran towards the front window while he focused on his core to blend out all distractions and opened fire on the step van in front. "VADE RETRO"

#368

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-24-16/0933:52>

Robyn's drone sensors pick up the arrival of the go-gangers and she relays that information to ISaint, her warning of company coming is bare seconds before the presence of the gang becomes obvious to everyone.  The gang does not make any overt actions, but continues to ride in circles about the building.  Suddenly, even her world goes dark as her drones go lifeless and her internal sensors go offline to reboot from some sort of massive EMP effect.  Not for the first time does she wonder why it is always the opposition that has the super spells and weapons.  Her naturally enhanced sense of hearing still functions, although at a lesser effect, and she hears the crump of the mortar rounds as they cover the building in smoke.

She reaches for the lead to the Hell Hound and stands, moving to where ISaint directs.  "My natural sensors are not affected and I can hear better than most people can.  Does anyone need me to be their guide through the smoke?"  She waits for the explosion indicating it is time to leave.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-24-16/0956:05>

Al felt his connection to the voodoo gods jerk away from him like a carpet being pulled out from under his feet.

"Heh heh - screw 'em," he muttered to himself. The pull detonator was in one hand, and his car keys were in the other. Electronics were dimming out all around, so he pressed the analog key into Jackhammer's hand, not trusting the fob. "You know where the car is amigo, straight shot down the alley from where I'm blowin' this wall. You do what the bossman says an' git the squishies out there safe. This way two of us'll have a key in case one of us don't make it."

He watched Isaint start shooting, ready to detonate his charge as soon as it was clear the ork was drawing fire. In the split second that took, he idly wondered where his spare car key might be - probably at the back of his junk drawer back at the Caravan. And who the hell were these people? They sure didn't look like cops out to protect the world from plague. And they didn't have the dingus anymore. But he supposed that might not exactly be public knowledge.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-24-16/1030:54>

Robyn moves to place herself behind Al as things get interesting.  Her hearing picks up the conversation between him and Jackhammer, but something about the timbre of his voice is off.  She casts her mind back to what she knows about this man and realizes that he is lying about the extra set of keys for the car.  She resolves to stay near him so she does not lose him again. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <05-24-16/2257:29>

Jackhammer was feeling a little better, which he attributed to whatever the medkit had done to him. He still felt overly hot however, and that wasn't helped by the fact that reuniting with his gear had come along with changing into his full body armor. Still, getting his bow back in hand with his Ruger at his side was comfortably familiar. When the gangers rolled up, he knew it was time for action.

Jackhammer took the key from Al. "Got it." he said simply, stuffing the key securely in an interior pocket on his armor. It would take longer to fish out that way, but he really didn't need it getting shot or melted or something. He drew his bow but left his arrows quivered for the time being; he wasn't sure which kind he might need first, or if he would need a free hand for smashing. He felt a little dull, like how the statue had made him feel, but by now he was used to it. He didn't spend all that money on 'ware just to count on some mysterious edge or spirit guidance.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-25-16/1037:34>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]
 
Adrenaline courses as the noise escalates around the estate…Isaint’s fire crashes in to the side of the stepvan but it swerves to avoid the brunt of the force, dissipating it across the reinforced chasis in a spray of sparks…it responds by swivelling a small roof mounted turret around and sending a flashbang crashing into the window by his head…the impact perfectly timed with the decanting of the snatch team from the side doors of the van…
 
The sound of breaking glass is all the trigger Al needs to detonate your emergency exit route across the back of the building, much to the surprise of two of the gangers who are picking themselves up from their suddenly dead motorbikes
 
“Oi! Fragger…”
 
***
 
#37

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-25-16/1046:58>

'Oh shit.'
What he could see through the smoke was only hazy, but a turret deploying was never a good sign. Isaint was tumbling away from the window just as the grenade hit.

[spoiler]
I'm assuming the thermal smoke isn't that dense if they are able to see Isaint through the closed window and make evasive maneuvers
Anyway: Interrupt action: Run for your life

[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-25-16/1913:22>

Wall blown nicely, Al was about to follow Isaint's lead and get the hell away from the grenade when he realized that rather than take advantage of his beautiful exit, Robyn was right behind him.

"Dammit woman..." he said as he tossed himself atop the grenade.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-25-16/2231:39>

Robyn's much enhanced hearing picks up the incoming grenade even before it hits the floor.  Anticipating Al blowing the wall, she is already moving that way when the new door is made.  She spares a word for Al as she passes him.  "Throw the fragging thing out the hole, Al.  Let's bloody well give them something to think about"    Trailing the monofilament of her whip behind her, she urges the Hell Hound through the hole in the wall beside her, commanding it to breathe at the two gangers that she can see there.  The two men are certainly not expecting the gout of flame and the whip is invisible to them as she flicks it forward at the man on the left while the hound follows the flame with a vicious bite to the arm of the one on the right. 

Even as the pair step back the one on the left can barely feel a quick tightness on his right arm before the monofilament cuts through clothes, flesh, and bone as if none of that existed, lopping off the arm just above the elbow.  The severed arm drops to the ground as the artery pumps blood from the stump.  If the damage alone had not been enough to drop the man, the shock at losing an arm is.  He screams once in agony before collapsing.  His partner fares little better as 170kg of Hell Hound slams into him and latches onto his arm, nearly removing it in one bite.  The last thing the man sees before going unconscious is a pair of ember-red eyes.

The explosion behind her sends her heart racing.  **Please God, do not kill him now that I have found him.**  Robyn uses her sensors to scan the immediate area and readies her whip for a second target if it appears.  She calls out on her throat microphone.  "Two gangers down out here.  Is everyone alright in there?  There are two motorcycles out here if someone can get them moving."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <05-26-16/1323:20>

Al's light-enhancing optics had picked up the tiny bomblet as it bounced along the shadowy floor, and knowing his coworkers hadn't had time to get out, he dove. Somewhere nearby he heard Robyn offer some advice on throwing the thing somewhere, to which his unspoken reaction was: why are you still close enough to tell me that?

It was, of course, the ideal plan, but as his scarred hand reached down he saw a pinprick LED go from red to orange and - mind filled with the image of hot shrapnel ripping through Robyn or Karasu-san's face - he dove on top of it.

The next zero-point-oh-two seconds were the longest of his life as he wondered how the voodoo gods were going to get him out of this one.

But when the thing detonated against his chest with no more force than a brass-knuckled troll punch (a sensation with which he was intimately familiar), it wasn't Ghede or Legba grinning down at him but the big white Akita.

By the time he'd shaken his head and rolled onto his back to take a look around, the totem was gone.

"Stick around next time, I'll pour a beer into a hubcap for ya."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-26-16/1557:54>

Isaint saw the galant but very, very stupid gesture, but before he could do much more and break his headlong rush, Al's body had been rocked by the small explosion. Without delay he was at the small man's side. 'Thank god, only a flashbang.' Without waiting a second longer, he grabbed Al's belt and dragged him from the ground into a somewhat upright position.
"What the fuck are you doing! MOVE, all of you!"
With a bit of relieve he noticed that Al was conscious, didn't seem to bleed or be on fire.
Moving through the opening almost instantly brought relieve from the pressure of the mana distortion. He felt his patron again - stronger than before.
Without pausing he sent a quick prayer: 'St. George guide my hand'
and shot a high explosive bullet directly at the fuel tank of one of the parked motorbikes visible at the edge of the building.
The rapport of his hand cannon was a lot louder than the "whump" sound the expanding cloud of burning gasoline made.
"Kill the bikes!"

With satisfaction he noticed that the little icon of his trode net had reappeared in his field of vision and indicated that his systems were back in action at any moment.
[spoiler]
Free action: Handle Al
Simple action: Agi Boost (http://orokos.com/roll/405342): 7d6t5 2 [7d6t5=6, 6, 2, 2, 3, 4, 3]
Simple action: Shoot motor bike: AGI 7 + Skill 6 - 2 (Adept Centering/Fuel Tank Shot)
Shoot (http://orokos.com/roll/405346): 11d6t5 2 [11d6t5=3, 1, 2, 1, 5, 6, 4, 2, 1, 2, 1]
DV 11P AP -4 + Net successes (which in the case of a stationary bike should be 2, so 13 P - not a chance that even a Scorpion could soak all the damage)  ;D
Free action: Call out to the others

Ini 12
[/spoiler]

#370

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <05-27-16/0058:18>

Jackhammer, being faster than some of the others, waits for them to get moving before he takes advantage of the exit. A part of him takes a bizarre pleasure in watching Al get hauled out, but only because he could tell the strange man was going to be fine. At least from the grenade.

Once outside, he found that Robyn had been busy with the gangers and nothing was really left to do on that front. He wasn't sure what to make of it, but now wasn't the time for thinking. He moved with careful, watchful motion, ready to put an arrow or a fist into anything that presented itself. This was the moment--the way Shadowrunning was supposed to be. Pulse pounding, 'ware in high gear, stupid gangers getting smashed or shot, and half-baked security measures being flattened before the highly-competent team of freaks and renegades. He could hardly wait for some fire team to pop around the corner with TMPs, just begging to get ground under heel. He smiled again, lost in the moment. "Here we go."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-27-16/0152:32>

Robyn notes with great pleasure that Al seems OK, and it appears that, as usual, his old beater jacket and his Voodoo gods had protected him.  She calls the Hell Hound to her side, its muzzle dripping red from where it has just ripped out the throat of the man he had attacked.  Robyn's ultrasound and radar pierce the smoke and noise, providing her with a perfect picture of the surrounding area.  She experiences the gratifying feeling of her devices coming on line in wireless mode as she spools the whip back into her finger so the others do not trip on it and get hurt.  The best news is that her drones are back on-line and she commands them to rise and give her the current positions of the opposing forces.  The exploding gas tank from the motorcycle down at the corner of the building sends flames licking at the house.  Part of her mind wonders how they are going to explain this to Karasu's contact while another part of her wonders just how the enemy had tumbled to the safe house so quickly. 

Without looking around, she uses her throat mic to say, "Are we heading to an intersect to Below?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <05-27-16/0622:08>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]
 
You have a brief moment of exultation as things seem to be swinging back in your favour before the foe pull more rabbits out of the bag…both vans seem to be the centre of powerful jamming fields that fill the airwaves with static, and then to make matters worse two more mortar rounds explode overhead and suddenly the air is filled with RFID tags squealing away and seriously hampering digital communication…
 
Through the static Robyn can see that the first van has pulled up outside the safehouse and two armoured figures chase you out of the back with two more flashbangs directed into the warehouse space, the third one is hugging the building and making its way towards the corner that will present a firing solution on your team.
 
The second van pulls up behind some parked cars providing it with a modicum of cover before the mini turret on its roof launches a flashbang towards your midst.  From the aerial perspective Robyn can see the back doors opening and a large figure emerge…more compelling is the creatures on the end of the two leashes, massive mastifs that make Al2 look like a puppy…the spines down their backs betray their identities before their trademark howls splits the air with horrendous power.
 
The surviving gangers are taking opportunity of the confusion to bug out with their tails between their legs, dignity shattered by the sudden war zone erupting around them…until more than a few of them collapse paralyzed by the noise
 
***
 
#38
 
 
[spoiler]
Two resists each please of:
 
PARALYZING HOWL
Type: P Action: Complex
Range: Special Duration: Special
This power affects everyone who hears it, be they friend or foe, within a radius of (Magic x 15) meters.  The critter makes an Opposed Test using its Magic + Charisma against the target’s Intuition + Willpower. The rating of any area-effect sound-dampening devices, personal sound-dampening devices (such as cyberware), or hits scored by Hush or Silence spells, is added to the target’s Opposed Test. If the target wins, he suffers no ill effects. If the critter wins, the target’s Reaction and Agility are both reduced by 1 for every net hit the creature scores; the reduction in Reaction affects the target’s Initiative and Initiative Score. This effect lasts for (Magic + net hits) Combat Turns. If either Agility or Reaction drop to zero, the target is paralyzed for (Magic + net hits) minutes and can take no actions except to breathe. After either effect ends, the target’s Reaction and Agility each return at the rate of 1 point per minute.
 
Then the flashbang will go off at the end of the phase 10S -4AP unless you get outside the 10m radius – cantered about 5m off the breech hole you made.  Bear in mind the area beyond this is fairly exposed, there are some parked cars you can hide amongst, one of them is Al’s
 
You are in a Rt 6 Spam/Static zone
[/spoiler]
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-27-16/0721:10>

[spoiler]
Can we get a Ini for those enemy actions? This will become very dicey very quickly.
Oh, and also the thresholds.

Resist:
Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/405531): 12d6t5 2 [12d6t5=4, 2, 6, 3, 1, 5, 3, 1, 4, 3, 2, 1]
Edge: Resist Reroll (http://orokos.com/roll/405532): 10d6t5 4 [10d6t5=1, 5, 3, 3, 4, 5, 5, 2, 2, 5]
Resist 2 (http://orokos.com/roll/405533): 12d6t5 3 [12d6t5=1, 3, 4, 3, 6, 1, 2, 6, 3, 4, 5, 1]

New Round:

Ini (http://orokos.com/roll/405534): 16+4d6 32[4d6=2, 5, 4, 5]
Ini Arthur (http://orokos.com/roll/405535): 10+4d6 28 [4d6=3, 6, 4, 5]

Isaint:
Simple Action: Command Arthur
Free action: Draw collapsed Crockett (Left hand)
Free action: Command Crockett to deploy
Simple Action: Shoot at Armored Figure 1/Called Shot Vitals
Shoot (Ruger Warhawk) (http://orokos.com/roll/405537): 14d6t5 6 [14d6t5=6, 6, 3, 4, 6, 2, 3, 3, 6, 4, 4, 6, 2, 5]
DV 14 AP -4 + Net Successes
Shots remaining 3/6

Arthur:Simple Action: Aim, Simple Action: Auto Shotgun: Medium Spread, Medium Distance, Flechette, Simple FA
Flechette FA Salvo (http://orokos.com/roll/405536): 12d6t5 7 [12d6t5=6, 1, 6, 5, 5, 5, 5, 4, 3, 5, 2, 2]
Auto Assault 16 w/Flechette:
DV 12(13+2 Flechette-3 Medium Spread) + Net Successes, Defense -8 (-3 Flechette -5 FA Salvo) AP +4

Medium Spread targets up to three targets in a 4m field: Two Barghests + Handler

Soak Flashbang:
Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/405538): 22d6t5 12 [22d6t5=5, 6, 5, 6, 1, 3, 5, 4, 3, 1, 5, 6, 5, 5, 2, 6, 4, 6, 2, 6, 1, 3]

Edge remaining: 4/5
[/spoiler]

'Oh no, I don't think so, not this time...'

Isaint's systems were back online and thoroughly unimpressed by the noise.
While he grasped with his left hand for the collapsed Crockett he already gave the mental command to deploy. Immediately the servos in his rifle began to whirr and stock and barrel began to draw into place.
Another command went out to the drone sitting in his car:
<<Arthur, Critter kill Delta, medium spread Full Auto + Handler>>

Finally he turned around to face their pursuers and gave a quick snapshot at the lead man's head: "VADE RETRO"

The exploding Flashbang he ignored, feeling the blast wash over him, but doing nothing to his armored body and head

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-27-16/1023:57>

Robyn sees everything as if in slow motion, calling out the approaching dangers as they come onto her sensors.  She turns to face the men approaching from inside the building, realizing they are only part of the problem.  Her experience with training the Hell Hound had given her some insight into the Barghest and she fully respects the capabilities of the pair approaching her.  Before she could do more than call out that they were there, the creatures used their fearsome howl and sent a cone of paralytic waves through the air.  Her guardian hound leapt up to place himself between the beasts and his mistress and so took the full brunt of the attack, collapsing to the ground, temporarily paralyzed.  His intervention gave Robyn a chance to avoid the attack. 

Robyn makes a decision to go into her world and sinks to the ground next to her faithful companion.  >>Team.  Al2 is down.  I am going into VR.<<  She steps into the matrix world on the local grid and immediately sees all the icons within a hundred meters, but focuses on the opposing rigger's RCC and the hacker's cyberdeck.  Based on the effort expended here, she is certain that her opposites will be well protected, but she needs to try something to help her team.

[spoiler]I cannot get to Orokos for some reason.  I rolled my additional 4d6 for initiative and got 6,5,4,4, making the new initiative 31.  Subtracting 10 for the IP already used to get to the matrix, I am now 21.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <05-28-16/0112:46>

Jackhammer stiffens at the chilling howls, but forces himself to action as he lays eyes on the fearsome beasts. He draws a barbed arrow and sends it gliding almost silently through the air towards one of the creatures, but finds himself unable to focus just yet. He had been expecting bullets, not energy weapons and monsters.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <05-28-16/0301:28>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Francis Road Met Not So Safe House, Former German Auto Dealership, Harrow, London]

They Dare!

It would be too easy to kill them all. They will live to serve me. I mark them all. I will find them. When I need them they will bleed for me. They will bleed it all for me. Every last drop.

The Kami complains of pains. The icons flicker. We are under attack.

[Spoiler]Pulse Resist 9 d6 (http://orokos.com/roll/405689): 9d6t5 1
Pulse Resist 16 d6 (http://orokos.com/roll/405690): 16d6t5 3
[/Spoiler]

I put my pants back on.

The Polite Oni instructs us, and everyone moves. He shoots a van, it shoots back.

The wall explodes. That is as expected, the Dirty Old Cheater did it.

The next explosion is not the work of the Dirty Old Cheater. I owe him a great favor.

While the Dirty Old Cheat embraces death the others and I move outside. I see the Unclean Hound Mistress has collected some limbs. Excellent. I get my knife ready.

The Beasts Howl. The world flashes white and loud.

[Spoiler]
Init 8 + 1d6 (http://orokos.com/roll/405695): 1d6+8 10
Resist Howl Intuition 5 + Willpower 5 (http://orokos.com/roll/405698): 10d6t5 1
Resist Howl Intuition 5 + Willpower 5 Edge Reroll failures (http://orokos.com/roll/405704): 9d6t5 5
Resist Howl Intuition 5 + Willpower 5 (http://orokos.com/roll/405706): 10d6t5 2
Resist Howl Intuition 5 + Willpower 5 Edge Reroll failures 8 (http://orokos.com/roll/405708): 8d6t5 2
Flashbang 10s -4 AP Resist Body 2 + Armor dress 8 + ballistic mask 2 - 4 AP + 7 Pre edge = 15d6 (http://orokos.com/roll/405723): 15d6o6h5 9
So net at least 1 stun
[/Spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <05-30-16/1417:08>

The place was pretty well guarded, but Deckard didn't sense any tension from the security team. They were just doing their routine job, with all the boredom that it included. The fact there was no magical security was reassuring to him. But he had to look at option to get in without actually hurting anyone...

Then he felt like a tug. A dark cloud was impeding with his connection with his body. Like it was being deprived of the Mana that was nourishing him. Something was happening back at the safehouse. Something serious.

Deckard opened his eyes in the midst of Chaos, and suddenly felt the weight of a strong Mana Static. Explosions, debris, critters, limbs, orders being shot, his first reflex was to bring his hand to his revolver on the jacket near him, as he was trying to assess the situation. The Hole in the wall, ISaint shouting to get out. And still that strong oppressive static that was cutting him of from his magic.

A smirk appeared on his face. He never minded a good challenge and wasn't a master of telekinesis for no reason.
Two grenades came landing nearby as two terrifying critters made their appearance. Their howl screeched in his ears but he kept his focus on the two grenades.

He looked for and found some remaining strings of Mana that he used to gather enough power to fling the grenades away and back towards the attackers.
Using his weaken but still present connection to Magic, he used the same spell to send flying at one of the beast his serrated blade filled with Neurotoxin. If the cut would not take him now the toxin hopefully would.


[spoiler]
Init (http://orokos.com/roll/406125): 13+1d6 18
Howl Resistance (http://orokos.com/roll/405634): 2#15d6t5 6 4

Fling reckless spellcasting F1 (http://orokos.com/roll/405636): 6d6t5 2
Fling reckless spellcasting F1 (http://orokos.com/roll/405637): 7d6t5 1
Fling Attack knife at Barghest (http://orokos.com/roll/406123): 12d6t5 6
Drain DV2 (http://orokos.com/roll/406124): 3#15d6t5 5 2 5

Avoid sonic beam (http://orokos.com/roll/406122): 13d6t5 4
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-31-16/0853:49>

Sure that the opposing hacker and rigger are running silent, Robyn's avatar is scanning the local area for hidden devices and finds several.  She picks one of the hidden icons, hoping it is the rigger's RCC and makes the opposed scan to locate it so she can begin her serious attacks against it.  It would be satisfactory if the target is the hacker's deck.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <05-31-16/0903:59>

Aware of the gas grenade flying towards them from the corner, Isaint started to run - noticing with some satisfaction that Rick had with only a flick of his hand sent the canister somewhere else.
While he did so, he once again shot a silent prayer to his patron: 'St. George lend me strength'. At once he felt the warm energy spreading through his fatigued body - although he was painfully aware that this would not last long.
Just as he raced around the corner he felt the rifle's servos click the last piece into place, and although he centered himself with his "VADE RETRO" chant, jumping around a corner, firing a gun with your right while holding a slightly vibrating piece of machinery in your left while also attempting a defensive roll made the shot a lot less accurate than it normally would have been.
Isaint had no time to verify if he had been hit - already one of the barghests was running towards him, trying to take him down.

Only peripherally he recognized that Arthur had opened fire again.

[spoiler]Simple action: Isaint runs rounds the corner and tries for another shot
AGI 7 + Skill 6 + Smartlink 1 -0 (Adept Centering/ Running -2)
Shoot: 14d6t5 3 [14d6t5=4, 6, 3, 1, 3, 5, 4, 3, 2, 4, 4, 1, 3, 6]
Yeah, not particularly impressive.
Simple action: Attribute Boost BOD:
Body Boost: 7d6t5 3 [7d6t5=6, 2, 6, 4, 1, 5, 1]
Free action (nimble fingers): Stash gun
Free action (nimble fingers): Ready now fully deployed rifle

Since he wasn't attacked by the sonic rifles last round and the grenade didn't actually land (due to Rick being awesome) he won't need the interrupt, but instead will now go on full defense against both the rifleman and the Barghest

Defense 1: 24d6t5 9 [24d6t5=3, 1, 4, 5, 4, 1, 4, 3, 6, 4, 4, 6, 1, 6, 1, 1, 1, 5, 2, 3, 5, 6, 5, 5]
Defense 2: 23d6t5 8 [23d6t5=5, 2, 6, 4, 6, 3, 3, 6, 2, 1, 3, 3, 4, 3, 2, 5, 6, 4, 3, 4, 5, 3, 6]

This drops his Ini down to 12

Arthur: Simple Action: Aim
Simple Action: Fire full Auto Salvo
Arthur shoot: 12d6t5 6 [12d6t5=5, 3, 6, 6, 1, 5, 4, 4, 3, 5, 1, 6]
Wow, this drone surely is pretty accurate.
Since the target is likely still at medium range, damage is 12 DV AP +4 Defense -8[/spoiler]

#372

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <06-01-16/0804:13>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]

As the last of the thermal smoke dissipates in the light early morning breeze the dawning sun throws stark shadows racing across the battle scene.  The thunder of Arthur’s shotgun fills the air, drowning out the whicker of small arms as Isaint unsuccessfully engages the attacker by the south west corner, who equally unsuccessfully returns fire, Isaint slipping under the burst of fire and rising smoothly to his feet once more…

In the matrix Robyn is frantically searching the plethora of hidden icons, homing in on the rigger’s control deck by instinct and preparing her arsenal to do battle…

The barghests streak across the car park, bloodied muzzles dripping slightly luminous saliva as they attempt to latch on to Jack and Isaint…Deckard’s knife sails unerringly across the distance to one of the brutes when at the last moment it is turned aside to clatter harmlessly to the floor…the strength of the counterspell is brutal, the practitioner is skilled…but Al’s shot sends it sliding in a dishevelled heap under one of the nearby cars…

Yukika’s imperious voice cuts across the din and momentarily everything seems to stop and listen, well all except the targets of her intent…beside her, the manifest spirit urges the team forwards to greater speed…

***

#40

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-01-16/0810:55>

A tug on his belt like he'd been picked up by a dockyard crane boots draggin on asphalt until he was vertical dead guys blood on Robyn more explosions in the house explosion in the lot freak dogs caterwauling hope for their sakes their bite is Robyn's going to VR - HERE? - BANG flare comps and dampers catch Isaint whirling whirl with him shoot two assholes with sci-fi looking ray guns people running people down need the car RUN bushes slapping his face fuck Jackhammer's got the keys.

Al continued muttering his glossalolic mantra to Samedi and Damballah and the war zone dropped to slow motion before his eyes. The swirling smoke parted before his piercing gaze and as he started to yell for the keys he realized Jackhammer couldn't very well throw them with some abomination hippy dog's teeth clamped on his arm so he calmly shouldered his weapon and shot the beast, then yelled, "Throw me the keys an' grab damned Sleeping Beauty!" 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-01-16/0833:07>

Isaint felt the hot bullets tug at his armor - much to close for comfort. But once again his patron had held his protective hand over him and let him come out unscathed from his stunt.
What he could not avoid was the attack from the other van. A stray bullet from an MP hit him squarely in the ribs. His armor held, but the pain threatened to throw off his aim again.

Still he kept his focus on the rifle man next to him.
His finger training had paid off - he managed to secure the revolver as fast as he had drawn it and had his rifle up in firing position in one fluid movement.
"Payback's a bitch - Vade Retro." His Crockett spew a short stream of APDS bullets towards the rifleman.
The thunder of Arthur's staccato shooting continued - hammering into the barghest that kept attacking him.
'Best 50k nuyen I ever spent - now if I can just get him to start skeet shooting at those drones...'

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-01-16/1028:44>

Robyn grins in VR as she calmly weeds through the chafe of RIFDs filling the matrix with distractions.  She is looking for one specific icon and finds it, homing in on the signature of the opposing rigger's RCC.  If she can threaten enough damage, she might be able to affect the drones in the air.  If she can do enough damage, she might even hurt the rigger.  Putting all her effort into the attack, she sends her matrix minions at the RCC, hammering it with a powerful Data Spike.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <06-01-16/2320:49>

Jackhammer notes Al's commands and realizes Robyn has taken the cyber-dive. He chucks his bow to the man and picks up Robyn, heading for the van. "Use your own fragging keys!" He yells back as he moves with super-metahuman speed.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-02-16/0619:47>

Al caught the ork's bow and then craned his neck to look up at the big guy as he approached with his human cargo.

"Heh heh, what I mighta said 'bout there bein' a spare key...well..." And with that, seeing Jackhammer's hands were full of elf, he deftly reached into the ork's armor where he'd seen him secrete the key and fished it out. Hopping into the car and popping the trunk and passenger doors, he tore a slap patch open and applied it to the back of his hand while Jackhammer loaded the hacker in. Watching the drones swirling into the air overhead, he hoped she was doing some good out in virtual la la land.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <06-02-16/1016:51>

Sorry friends, but we really need your help now
Deckard called upon his bound spirits, first addressing get his Air Elemental.
Find and disable the mage who's hindering us, all means necessary!

Then he called upon the powerful Ghost he had bound some time ago already.
friend, cast on me and maintain the spell I imbued in you.

That said he didn't waste any second and turned toward the hound laying on the floor. He gather some Mana and levitated the paracreature to him. Now holding the weightless animal he ran to Isaint's car, with the enhanced speed of the priestess' spirit and yelling at the drone inside Albert, open the trunk!

He put the hound inside and climbed in the car.

Things were slowing down as the spirit spell was taking effects. He used this extra time to manipulate the Mana once again. Now out of the Static zone, he felt like he was bathing in magic.
He looked at the Van, took a deep breath, knowing what he was going to do could very well knock him out since had yet to recuperate from the strain of the casting of the Mana Barrier at the Angel's.

His goal was simple: lift the massive vehicle and flip it over on its roof.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-03-16/0958:25>

The power of the matrix crackles around her as Robyn unleashes the spike against the RCC and feels it go offline.  She expects that the rigger was jacked in and suffered some damage and the speed of the RCC disappearing should mean that her opponent will be feeling the effects of dump shock as well.  Her defenses fend off an attack from the decker and her avatar howls at the continued contest.  The first step is to locate the enemy deck and she reorganizes her deck to aid her by strengthening the firewall to fend off what she is sure will be another attack on her. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <06-06-16/1150:43>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]
 
While Jackhammer and Al bundle Robyn into one car and Deckard wrestles Al2 towards Isaint’s vehicle Yukika searches for the unseen mage or other threat.  A rustle of movement from within the safehouse shows one of the attackers dragging his fallen team member back towards the front of the building and the feed from outside shows the bloodied figure at the south west corner dragging himself painfully back towards the insertion vehicle…
 
The other van rocks as Deckard exerts his will upon it, only to feel the grip of the other mage try and disrupt his spell casting…
 
***
 
#41

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-07-16/1340:48>

Isaint saw his shots hit home, but taking no effect at all. With dawning horror he recognized the man's movements: This guy had replaced his arms and legs for cyber versions. This was bad - really bad.
A little message from Arthur showed that he had been hit as well from his opponent, but had sustained no damage. Isaint didn't have the time to think about his drone's fortune - he was to much occupied with his own.
Desperate to get out of the line of fire from the first van's occupant, Isaint jumped back around the corner where he had come from.
Full body armor meant no chance of using one of his grenades. He was hurt and his opponent was unlikely to succumb to his wounds any time soon.
This was if anything a job for magic. And he was sure to call out to Karasu, Rick or even Al if he found a second to concentrate on anything else than his immediate survival.

The cyborg had gotten to his feet and opened fire at Isaint - again. The hit had slowed him down but Isaint managed to avoid being shot a second time if barely. He really needed to do something against the man's weapon. Waiting for the tank to run out of ammo really wasn't an option...

#374

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-09-16/1034:35>

Robyn dodges another of the opposing decker's data spikes and considers her options.  There are a lot of hidden icons in the area and the decker is apparently using a wrapper program to conceal his icon.  That is the bad news.  The good news is that the decker is using a wrapper program, because that means one less other useful program on the deck.  Instead of expending more effort on finding the hidden deck, she switches tactice, going for the gun used by the man opposing ISaint and sends a massive data spike at it, attempting to brick it.

The gun almost explodes as its internal components fry and spark, threatening to set the man on fire and causing him to swear and jump back, dropping the gun, now no more than an unwieldy high tech club.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <06-10-16/0807:21>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]

Al sends his car screaming across the parking area towards the hovering van and the animal handler now devoid of cover…for a moment it looks like he is going to make a break for cover but clearly realises the futility of the action and instead raises his rifle to his shoulder and pumps a steady stream of armour piercing sabots through the front windshield before being vaulted through the air and over the roof of Al’s car like a wet rag…to land with a sickening thump behind the fleeing vehicle.

Seeing his colleague being flattened the cyborg stops pursuing Isaint and turns his attention on Al’s vehicle and with careful aim sends a tightly controlled burst of fire at the engine block… before his gun explodes in his hands...

The driver in the first stepvan turns his attention to Arthur but having seen previous failures to oust the metal monster also targets the vehicle he is in…

***

#42

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-10-16/1242:51>

Isaint noticed the return fire against his car and the malfunctioning gun of his opponent at the same time. 'Shit, the dog is in the car'
A change of tactics was in order - if the cyber warrior had a back up weapon he'd have to deal with it later - for the moment he had to stop the driver of the first Van. Isaint stepped back into sight, his own weapon raised and steady. Even from here he could see that the Van would provide almost as much armor cover as a small tank. But for once the occupant wasn't his target. To shoot the man still had to lean out with his weapon and although it was an SMG, it still was to large to pull comfortably back in every time he took cover.
Drawing in air and releasing it with his "Vade Retro" and the pull of the trigger he sent a full salvo at the exposed weapon, making the weapon drop from the man's hand. Isaint cursed inwardly as the weapon didn't drop more than half a meter to the ground. Still, if the guy wanted the weapon back he'd have to get out of his car...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <06-14-16/1634:09>

The Powerful Air spirit manifested behind what looked like a child looking through a scope. Next to him another spirit form was ready to defend him. When Deckard's spirit unleashed a blast of electricity, the Gnome spirit had no choice but to take on the full blast to protect its master.

Abord! though Deckard at his spirit as a reflex. The feeling he got from the Spirit was faint but to his understanding, it was a kid who was casting Mojo at everyone. If Deckard had killed before and will do it again, he would never deliberately harm a child!
Trying to stay focused on the massive floating Van to not lose his grip on it, he clarified his last command: non-lethal only! Keep the target alive!

He mentally moved the Van toward the other one, rising it up in the air and slowly tilting it to be turned hood down.  Bullets were flying not far from him, but luckily ISaint Morgan was protecting him. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-16-16/0747:55>

Al had started his run for the handler planning to drift right at the last minute and use the driver's side of his car to crush the guy against the side of the van, but was delighted to see the van rise into the air, leaving the man standing in the open. Well, Rick had said he was a master of telekinesis, which, as brands of Satanism go, was not the worst. The split second it took the guy to realize he was exposed was time he didn't have, though he still managed to spray Al's windshield with armor-piercing rounds in the moment between having his femurs shattered and being thrown over the top of the car. One round nicked Al's ear, but the shatterproofing held and the resin screen stayed mostly intact.

"Stop, look, an' lissen, asshole."

Glancing into the rearview to check on Yukika and Robyn, Al's eye instead caught the distant figure back by the safehouse raising his weapon. Al instantly downshifted and yanked on the wheel, sending his car clear of his attacker's burst as he described a tight one-eighty amid the screech of burning rubber. Now facing the man, Al watched his weapon explode in a shower of sparks, which answered his question about whether Robyn was okay.

"Good thing, ya sumbitches," he muttered to the voodoo gods. "Ol' Al woulda fired the lot o' ya, an' don't think I wouldn't."

The shadow surrounding Al reminded him he was stopped directly beneath the van, which instead of peacefully floating was shaking violently. Not good to be under it. A touch on the gas and Al was roaring back to pick up Jackhammer, even as the airborne van began flying towards the landbound one.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <06-16-16/0831:17>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]

From a few seconds of apparent superiority your attackers seem to be reeling from your combined counterattack but they could hardly be said to be defeated yet…the driver of the van hurriedly closes his window as the hail of buckshot washes over his vehicle and he then slams the vehicle into a rapid reverse to attempt to pick up the cyborg

In the astral Deckard’s spirit is predictably punishing its smaller sylphlike brethren that is standing between it and the gnome mage but the moment of delay is enough for her to perceive the astral a controlled stunbolt at the intruder, sadly to little effect against the might of Deckard’s summoning and she soon succumbs to its not so gentle ministrations…

***

#43

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-16-16/1026:16>

Robyn narrowly avoids taking any damage from the third data spike sent her way and responds by sending a spike to the cyber eyes of the cyborg, feeling that she should have tried that before going for his gun last time.  Lesson learned.  After all, if he is suddenly blinded, he might be at a real disadvantage.

Sure enough, the eyes cease functioning completely in a rather dramatic fashion as sparks fly out and inward.  The tank drops the sonic rifle he is carrying and puts his hands to his eyes, almost clawing at them to get the pain to stop and prevent the sparks from burning a hole into his brain.  Almost crazed, he stumbles forward directly into the path of the van, whose driver is unable to stop in time to avoid hitting the man.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-18-16/0835:00>

The tide had turned against their attackers. But Isaint was not content to let them escape, just to turn around and hit them again. With another fluid movement he brought the running cyborg into his sights, aiming for the man's feet. The guy might be armored like a tank, but that gave him the same problems of mobility.
"Vade retro." Isaint shot another burst - this time a the heels of the fleeing man. The bullets sparked as they ricochet from the man's armor, but the impulse was enough to make the man stumble and stagger, disturbing his timing just enough to prevent him from entering the Van.

[spoiler]
Isaint can act at Ini 16 before the Tank disengages completely:
Shake up Called Shot: - 5 Ini + normal damage:
Simple Action: Aim
Simple Action: Called Shot (Short Burst)
Free Action: Adept Centering
Free Action: Called Shot

AGI 7 + Skill 8 + Smartlink 1 + Aim 1 - 2 Wounds - 0 Called Shot -2 Running Target
Shoot (Shake Up) (http://orokos.com/roll/411399): 15d6t5 43 [15d6t5=6, 2, 3, 3, 4, 2, 6, 3, 1, 1, 3, 2, 5, 5, 2]
DV 12 AP -7 Defense -2 Ini -5
Tank Defense:
Defense (http://orokos.com/roll/411400): 10d6t5 2 [10d6t5=3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 1, 6, 6, 3]
Tank loses -5 Ini and with it his last action for this round
Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/411401): 30d6t5 13 Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/411401): 30d6t5 13
Soaks all damage.
[/spoiler]

#376

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-19-16/0347:53>

The combination of suddenly and painfully going blind and ISaint's shots at his legs caused the running man to misjudge his leap for the open side door of the van swinging by to pick him up.  He stumbled forward and was swiped by the van and knocked off his feet, falling in a heap but recovering almost immediately.  After all, the man was not some rookie on his first run, but a well trained professional runner.  The mission had come undone through the unexpected actions of the team they were supposed to be bringing in.  All of the special tactics they had been instructed to use had failed, resulting in the death or wounding of several of his teammates and the hellish Barghests.  The magic support had seemed to wither away and he has a strange feeling that these people have dealt with the mage as well.  A bad job all around and now it is time to leave before some other part of him goes haywire and stops working.  With luck he will be able to jump into the van when it pulls back forward to his location and he praises the bit of training he has received in fighting blind.  It might not be enough to aim a rifle, but it can help him reach the inside of the van.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-20-16/0236:18>

Robyn quickly analyzes the movements of the combatants and sees that the enemy are trying to flee.  She sends a quick message out.  >>Team. Robyn.  It seems that the enemy wants to leave.  My recommendation is to let them.  Any further fighting will only delay our movement to Below, risking our welfare for little real gain.  Let them flee so that we can depart this place and head for the mages.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-20-16/1345:16>

[spoiler]
Simple Action: Command Arthur
Simple Action: Called Shot at Engine
Shoot (http://orokos.com/roll/411808): 14d6t5 5
Free Action: Adept Centering
Free Action: Called Shot

Evade (http://orokos.com/roll/411809): 14d6t5 4
13 DV AP -7
Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/411812): 29d6t5 11 [29d6t5=2, 6, 3, 4, 3, 3, 4, 5, 1, 6, 5, 5, 5, 2, 4, 3, 6, 4, 3, 1, 6, 1, 1, 3, 6, 4, 5, 2, 5]
2 Damage, Engine damaged, Vehicle stops.

[/spoiler]

Isaint watched the swerving Van. Almost absentmindedly he commanded Arthur:
<<Hold fire, start engine, prepare to drive.>>
While he did that, he lined up another shot, this time targeted at the Van's engine block. "Vade Retro"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-20-16/1916:59>

Racing over to the ork archer, Al keyed the mic on his lapel and got as far as <<Inna car, big guy, less'n ya wanna...>> when he realized the thing had gone dead.

No wonder he wasn't getting any chatter from the rest of the team.

But for Al, old school was the only school. He leaned hard on the horn as he pulled a tight cookie around his coworker's feet while leaning over to push the shotgun seat door open.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: pistolgrip on <06-21-16/0052:18>

Jackhammer saw the chance to be reunited with his bow and jumped into the moving vehicle using his amped-up agility like a professional acrobat. His Ruger slid somewhere inside and he nearly crushed an unconscious Robyn, suddenly finding himself somewhat distracted by the close proximity. He got his head back into the real world and scrounged for his bow. Shooting from a moving vehicle, especially one Al was driving, wouldn't be easy. But it beat sitting with his hands in his lap and listening to the radio.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <06-21-16/1828:50>

Decksard wasn't gonna try to hold on to the other Van, his concentration fixed on the already levitating one, but he had other tricks in his sleeves, or rather other targets.
As he saw the big cyborg trying to retreat into the moving van, Deckard sent a wave of mana that clinched into the man - or robot,  or thing - what ever it had become.

If he had control of both the Van and the Tank, making the two tons vehicle fall onto the chromed man would be much easier.

In the back on his mind, he sent a mental command to his bound Air Elemental. "Thank you. Now could you bring the target back to us please."

His connection with the Elemental was fading, he would have to rebind it to keep it around, or he felt the next service would be the last.

[spoiler]
Levitate on the Tank 20 - 2 sustained levitate spell (http://orokos.com/roll/412191): 18d6t5 5
Drain DV6 (http://orokos.com/roll/412193): 15d6t5 7
[/spoiler]
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-22-16/0246:11>

Part of Robyn's conscious thought focuses on something she had earlier filed away and now brought out to the front of her mind.  >>We were splattered with many RFID tags that right now are pinging their location to the world.  If even one of them stays on us, the opposition will know where we are.  I do not have enough tag erasers to kill all of them.  Ideas?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-22-16/0304:54>

<<If you have an agent, now would be the time to have it start data spiking. But it will be quicker if we can get pulsed again by a friendly mage. For now we need to stay within the jammer range to keep them from narcing.>>
Isaint replied with a semi conscious effort.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-22-16/0312:11>

>>Yes, I will have it do that.  That will give Ivan something to do after sitting around all day.  Um......ISaint, are you injured?  Do I need to come get you?<<

Robyn sets her deck agent to seeking out the tags and spiking them.  These spikes are weaker than hers are, but they are only going after tags.  She is more concerned right now about ISaint's condition.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-22-16/0346:04>

<<My biomonitor tells me it's probably a very extensive haematoma- so yeah, as soon as we have a minute, I'll gladly let you operate on me. For now the adrenaline makes it tolerable.>>
Isaint watched as Rick tried to squash the cyborg with the floating Van, while he moved towards his bike.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <06-24-16/0451:16>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]
 
With the tide clearly turned against them and their options to run being removed rapidly their desire to take you alive seems to be lower on the agenda as the first van’s turret grenade launcher fires an air burst high explosive towards the Morgan, Isaint and Deckard…
 
Meanwhile the decker, and perhaps the rigger have been busy as two of the parked cars suddenly lurch to life, one trying to impede Al’s speeding vehicle and the other accelerating towards the two remaining runners on foot…
 
***
 
#44

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-24-16/1206:56>

... At least that was what the Van intended to do. Isaint noticed the turning turret and lined up his own shot before his opponent could pull the trigger.
One bullet left his rifle and hit exactly into the firing mechanism, turning the turret into dead weight.

[spoiler]
Action at Round 3.1
Ini 28
Simple action: Aim
Simple action: Called Shot - Target Weapon on immobile car
Free Action: Adept Centering
Free Action: Called Shot

Called shot vs. Grenade Launcher (http://orokos.com/roll/413092): 15d6t5 4 [15d6t5=6, 4, 1, 4, 2, 6, 2, 4, 6, 4, 2, 5, 3, 2, 1]
Immobile, no Defense
R&G p.111 describes weapons like guns as Heavy Material, but lets err on the save side and call it Reinforced: 8 Structure 12 Armor
16 DV AP -7
Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/413093): 13d6t5 4
Takes 12 damage, destroyed.


[/spoiler]

#380

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-25-16/0713:37>

Head on a swivel, Al did his best to keep track of the mayhem around him as he danced his ride around the parking lot-come-battlefield. One of the previously parked cars in the lot was suddenly accelerating towards Rick and Isaint. It'd likely hit a wall if it hit them, but he doubted there was anyone in it to care anyway.

And then there was another car barrelling toward him from his flank. Ignoring that one for a precious few split seconds, he floored it to close with the first car then lined up to sideswipe it off course....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-26-16/1117:49>

Robyn notes the cars starting up and realizes that the decker must be using them, perhaps with the help of the rigger.  She sends a data spike at the car's ignition and hopes it is enough to dissuade her opponent.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <06-27-16/0754:50>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]

Robyn and Al’s interventions stop the haywire highjacked vehicles from doing any real damage but they serve to impede you all just long enough for the mortar rounds to rain down from the sky with a dim whistle…instead of whickering shrapnel however they explode just above the deck spraying an all too familiar sticky white foam across the area which almost immediately begins to harden into weird sculptural forms…with at least some of you encased within!

***

#45

[spoiler]
Freeze foam generates an armour and structure rating of 6 each across the 3x 10m radi…probably enough to swamp the whole of the car park and front of the safehouse.  It will make driving difficult but Isaint is likely to be in the area and I think Deckard is still standing in the relative open too…[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-27-16/0822:47>

Al never had to swerve for the chase car - it veered off course and crashed into a parked truck before it ever got close to him. He concentrated on the other ghost-car, overtaking and pushing it off course and into a wall as it was bearing down on Rick.

Then the sky went white with more of that damnable foam stuff from the mall, and he shifted course and added more speed in a bid to get clear before that crap ruined his paint job. It hardened with incredibly speed - virtually on contact - but he poured on the gas...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-27-16/0902:24>

Robyn's flying drones are still giving her a good digital picture of what is happening and she is aware of the foam as soon as the others are.  >>Team.  We have people on foot in the foam.  Are we still fighting or leaving?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-27-16/1056:08>

[spoiler]
Edge Test (http://orokos.com/roll/413852): 5d6t5 3
to see which cover Isaint prefers
I'd say he is lucky, jumping behind the burning bike with a Run For Your Life interrupt action
So Ini - 5

Ini 13:
Simple Action: Activate Focus: Elemental Weapon
Simple Action: Activate Weapon Focus

Ini 3:
Simple Action: Kip-Up: Kip Up (http://orokos.com/roll/413856): 11d6t5 7 [11d6t5=6, 4, 6, 6, 5, 1, 3, 4, 6, 5, 5]
Attack: Window of safe house with a Karate Blow: Attack Window (http://orokos.com/roll/413857): 17d6t5 5 [17d6t5=2, 6, 1, 1, 5, 1, 4, 5, 2, 2, 5, 1, 2, 3, 1, 1, 5]
DV 7P AP 6(f) +5 successes vs. Average Material (Ballistic Glas) Window Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/413859): 4d6t5 0
Simple Action: Command Arthur to drive to the front of the house.

[/spoiler]

'This is gonna suck.'
Isaint felt the warning tug at the edge of his awareness as the characteristic crack and whistling of mortar rounds sounded from above. "RICK, MOVE!"  Arthur just had started to accelerate away from the parking lot and there was no way of getting inside in time. Instinctively he dove for the only other remaining available cover:
The burning Scorpion Roadhog that he himself had set on fire. The machine was standing upright and was massive and armored heavily. With a jolt of adrenaline, Isaint jumped through the flames and landed in a roll between the safe house wall and the bonfire bike. Than the grenades exploded and the world went white - except where it hit the flames - there it conflagrated as the normal oxidation process was sped up considerably by the additional energy and the flammable solvent. A hot, scorching blast swept over Isaint, but his cover kept the worst of the foam from hitting him and the stuff that did spill over burned up to fast to create durable bonds. 
"Oh saint, give me strength." With these words he took the right hand of his rifle and had his cestus ignite, turning his right fist into a torch.
Bringing his legs up just a fraction he explosively straightened and catapulted himself on his feet, ramming his burning fist straight through the nearest window, shattering the glass. <<Arthur, drive to safe house front door, evasion.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-27-16/1941:17>

...and within instants he was scattering a billowing trail white crud in his wake that was first the consistency of styrofoam but was more like half-dry cement for the last few feet has he tore out of the dispersion area. His anti-collision warnings were pinging almost before he realized he was driving blind and he slammed on the brakes, skidding to a stop as the proximity readout blazed crimson.

Practically blind in the dark car with his three coworkers, Al remembered he was also largely deaf since his earbud was now junk. He reached into his pocket and deftly flipped his commlink to speaker mode to keep up with what Robyn, Isaint, and Rick were up to.

Then he turned his attention to the huge ork crammed into the seat beside him.

"Jack baby," he said, "I don't need this windshield no more."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-28-16/0104:04>

Robyn realizes the problem almost as soon as the foam shells deliver their cargoes.  >>Al, I am feeding my sensor readings to your commlink.  This includes the drone feeds that are now in the bottom of your 'link screen.  Let me know if you want anything fed to your eyes.  Does anyone else want the feeds?  ISaint and Deckard, are you alright?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <06-28-16/0238:30>

Deckard released his mental grip on the floating upside-down van once he had brought the cybered up man right under, and 2 tons of armored metal fell on him from a good 8m.
A satisfactory grin appeared on the Magicians face but his moment of pride was short lived as the whistling sound of a mortar grenade screamed above him.

He was already preparing to fling the thing away with his magic as he had previously done in the warehouse.  But the shell exploded mid air in a throng of smaller object and there was no way Deckard could control them all. The Morgan was speeding away already and so did his only coverage, so the fastest reflexe that came to his mind was to cover his head with and under his coat and kneel down to  try withstanding the upcoming blast.

In no time he was covered with a foam similar to what had been thrown at them in the Undeplex. This time alas, the magician hadn't had the chance to get to a higher ground, and he could feel the chemical substance hardening over his coat. Everything turned dark and almost silent, the sound of his own breathing taking over the deafening bang of previous gun exchange, and rubber squeaking.

He could only hope that his companions could fare better and get away in time from that chemical prison.  And that his subvocal micro-transceiver would work under the thick foam.
<< Guys, I'm alright. I have other tricks down my sleeves. >>
Deckard had always been one to try finding the best situation out of the bad. Sure he was stuck for now, but also now protected by a thick coat of hardened substance.

He projected a wave of astral energy, like a pulse of Mana that would allow him to pinpoint and maybe identify the people around him. I seemed there were more enemies, and they had to be stopped.
That meant finding their location.
[spoiler]
Detect Life (Extended) F4 (http://orokos.com/roll/414029): 15d6t5 6 Limit 4
Drain DV3 (http://orokos.com/roll/414030): 15d6t5 6
 [/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-28-16/0356:21>

"Much obliged," Al said as screen of his comm came to life, bathing the interior of the care in a dim glow. Tiny little screen notwithstanding, the feed was impressive. Almost impressive enough to want it in his eyes - but there was no way he was enabling their wifi amid the amount of virtual weight being tossed around in this little fracas. "Link's good fer me, though."

He heard Rick's voice saying he was all right, but it sounded a bit echoey. Scanning the mage's last position from his drone's-eye view, he saw a fire by the wall of the safehouse and then a sea of white. Thumbing playback on the feed, he saw the crap bury Rick even as the others made their escapes.

"Ya don't look so all right, kemo sabe. Ya got a way out?"

Al was already reversing his car away from the truck he'd almost hit and nosing it toward a safer path based on what his commlink showed. It was awkward, but it was what he had until he could get rid of the windshield.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <06-30-16/0514:13>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]
 
As Deckard stretches out his senses across the ether he might be surprised at the amount of metahumanity within range of his spell, at least until you consider that this confrontation has been going on for less than thirty seconds and your average citizen is probably only now becoming aware that something is amiss.  Probably of more relevance to his search he confirms that the van he was levitating has a single living being and there are two in the now foamed vehicle nearby, three in the safehouse, his companions speeding away from the fight in Al’s car and something that can only be AlTwo  slowing rapidly to a halt as the foam impedes the drone pilot…
 
For Isaint the respite from the foam is followed by the realisation that he has just re-entered the mana static zone as it saps his powers of considerable strength…
 
***
 
#46

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <06-30-16/1011:45>

Robyn watches the foam hardening vicariously through the sensors of her drones.  >>I know that my companion is in the healing module, but I think it might be wise for me to be near him when he wakes up.  I don't think a confused and perhaps panicking Hell Hound is what ISaint wants inside his drone.  Any thoughts?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <06-30-16/1248:25>

Isaint climbed inside the safe house with one smooth motion, but just a step beyond he felt the background count reassert itself again. He knew that somewhere the guy he shot and his companion had to be. But luckily for them he wasn't particularly interested in them. Quickly he strode through the room to the opposite side of the building, back to the window that had broken half a minute ago when this assault had started. The flame on his cestus had fizzled out as the astral pollution overwhelmed the comparatively weak construct, but the strong empowerment of the weapon focus stayed active. A small rumbling in his belly reminded him that they still needed to meet those doctors. Keeping an eye open for a surprise attack by the remaining trooper he finally found time to take care of his team. A quick look out of the window confirmed his worry: Arthur and the Morgan had been hit by the sticky stuff.
<<Arthur, stop the car, get out and release the hound from the VM. Change to APDS and stay ready to defend.>>
<<Team, should you not have noticed it yet, but we are fucked and we need to leave. My bike is somewhere on this lot, covered in foam and my Morgan won't get me further either. My agents tell me we are covered in RFID markers and somewhere someone has an automatic mortar aimed at this position. We need to get underground again ASAP to clean up and get our treatment.

Rick, do you need help or can you blast your way out yourself?
Robyn, can you jack a car for us - preferably discretely? Just spoof it so we can use it. If you can spare attention or an agent, search for a military grade mortar within a one klick radius. I'm quite certain they use wireless to coordinate their shots through the drones.
Mrs. Karasu, if you have another trick up your sleeve, now is the time to use it. We need a way to block further mortar rounds. Blocking line of sight probably won't work as long as enemy drones are about, but a spirit might be able to deflect incoming stuff.
Al, once again your Van seems to have become a casualty, but for now keep going if you can so you stay a moving target.
Jackhammer, keep the others alive until we rejoin you.>>

#382

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <06-30-16/1448:33>

<<Negatory bossman>> Al shouted at his commlink as he fast-reversed back towards the foam mountain. It had a disconnected feeling like playing a game, driving based on an image on a 2D screen. <<Al don't leave till ever'one leaves..>>

He popped the trunk as he approached the foam, but it was stuck, so he reversed hard against the now solid mass - naturally it was as hard as the crap jamming his trunk, so a few good taps was all it took. Hopefully none of his passengers got whiplash.

<<Anyone wants a lift git in now, but it's the trunk or else you'll be gittin' real cozy-like with the ladies.>>

Even as he waited on station to pick up any stragglers, he held the hand brake while spinning his wheels. The screeching was horrific, but the car would be able to sping forward at any sign of trouble.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-01-16/0214:13>

Deckard appreciated the concern from his teammates.
<< I won't lie, this turns out to not be the most comfortable place to stick around. I'm starting  to feel bad for those poor lads caught in it.>>

Deckard took a deep breath, what he was about to attempt was pushing the limit of Magic. He loved his wife. But in spite of all his efforts, he had been unable to save her. He had to admit, thanks to her, he had continue pushing his understanding of the MEtamagics and the Spirit World. He had spent countless hour in the Metaplanes, for one, maybe figure out where her soul/spirit could have gone, and two, find a way to be with her again, to feel her, to be one.

What he had found was a way to confine the available summoning space when calling on a spirit to only his own transcendental presence in the Astral space. He was channeling the conjuring into himself, becoming one with the spirit, inside his own meat body. He didn't yet know how dangerous it could be, to consciously give away and share one's own corpse. All he knew was that he long the day he would find his WIfe Cara's Spirit. And melt their soul together again.

What he needed right now was less lovy touchy, however. He needed to free himself from this hard foam prison  and all that came to his mind was to burn the shit down without injuring himself...

His eye closed and he reached through the planes of Magic to call upon an Fire Elemental. But as the connection was made he channeled it into himself.

He felt an almost palpable energy filling up his veins. His muscle tensed then stretched and a warm feeling of power and clarity shook his senses. And along with this, the weird feeling of being being someone else, or rather something else. He felt the uneasiness of the Spirit at first. suddenly limited by an unfamiliar form.

I'm sorry buddy, he mentally communicated with the elemental, this vessel may feel a bit clumsy,  but I very much care about it, and thus you inside. Plus you got to admit it looks pretty darn hot. Now I'll leave you control of it but you gotta do what you can to disable our enemies, at least long enough for my companion and us to escape. And yes, that'd imply getting out of that foamy prison.

He felt his mind take a back seat as the spirit started to move his body, quickly familiarizing himself with its capabilities. Deckard felt reassured. Not so much for the confidence he'll soon be out of here, but for the sensation that he could in a instant and quite easily regain the driver seat and control of himself/his body.

Magical flames had started to surround Deckard's body, swirling in very random directions. He didn't feel any heat or burn, but the flames definitely had its effect on the foam. The Fire Elemental/He started to use  its power to break the out of the cocoon.

[spoiler]
Channeling F8 Fire Spirit (16DP - 1 stun modifier) (http://orokos.com/roll/414874): 15d6t5 8
F8 Fire Spirit Resistance (http://orokos.com/roll/414875): 8d6t5 3
Drain Resistance DV6 (http://orokos.com/roll/414876): 15d6t5 2 Ouch!

4 Stun. Technically, Not sure if the spirit for removes 8 Wound modifiers, then we take the drain, or Deckard takes the drain then the Possessing SPirits removes the Modifiers. Up for discussion, but I'm fine withth e -1 Stun modifier)

1 Service to relinquish control of his body to the Spirit.
Counting on 'it' to free Deckard.

[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-01-16/0233:16>

Robyn's VR avatar nods.  >>Yes, I can try those things.  My thought on the mortar, though, is that it is hidden and probably wrapped.  It might take a very long time to look at each individual icon in that sort of radius, and I have my agent searching out and silencing every RFID tag it can find right now.  The car is a lot easier.  I can get it to accept me since there is no one really here to fight me and getting three marks ought to be easy.  I am a bit concerned about GOD and should reboot my deck soon, perhaps before I take the car?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-01-16/1316:47>

Isaint was interrupted in his musings by the reappearance of the man with the sonic rifle. Obviously, ignoring him so he could take care of his friend had not found a favorable reciprocation.
"Drop your weapons!"
The words probably had been more a reflex, or - if something like this existed - more a kind of rhetorical command since he immediately pulled the trigger of his SMG filling the room with an inescapable stream of armor piercing rounds. The astral static had dampened Isaint's reflexes to the point he couldn't do much more than flinch as the salvo hit his armor. As the hammering stopped, Isaint had dropped to one knee. Now he looked up:
"Sure, catch. Vade Retro!"
With a remarkable fluid motion he threw a small grenade over the head of the man to impact somewhere behind him in the next room. Immediately the man was covered in a cloud of clear vapor.
The Narcoject and DMSO worked quickly, but not quickly enough to prevent the man from readjusting his aim and squeezing out another salvo. This time Isaint felt the impact driving the air out of his lungs.
<<I'm hit...>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-05-16/1028:13>

>>How bad is it, ISaint?  If this stuff is hardening, I can walk across it and enter the building through the upper floor.  Al, can you get me closer?  I can slip from VR and reboot the deck while I do this.  Ideas?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-05-16/1125:05>

<<Bad enough that my auto injector wants to give me a stimulant. Don't worry, I'm not done yet. Reboot and get us one or two disposable cars jacked. I need to help Arthur get out of my car. Oh, and hold that camera drone steady for a second.>>
Gingerly, Isaint stepped out of the window to the front of the building. Pain coursed through his upper body with every step.
The automatic fire of the remaining merc was grating on his nerves.
<<Arthur, change to regular ammo and shoot your way free of the car. Gather all remaining supplies and go on defense mode and team assist.>>

Isaint felt the oppressive mana static fall away and he concentrated on his next action. Another grenade found his way to his hand.

He peaked around the corner and lobbed underhanded the pepper punch gas grenade into the open roof hatch without leaving his cover. "Vade Retro."

A plume of acrid white smoke exploded from within the stuck van turning its insides into a little piece of burning hell.

At the same time Arthur full filled his orders: A tight burst of automatic fire tore through the caked canvas roof of the Morgan, freeing the drone from his foam prison.

[spoiler]
Ini (http://orokos.com/roll/416024): 13+4d6 24
24: Direct Arthur
14: Focused Concentration, to mitigate assisted blind fire (-3)
4: Adept Centering (ignore wound penalties), Aim, Throw
Grenade throw (http://orokos.com/roll/416022): 8d6t5 4

Decker Resist:
Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/416025): 7d6t5 1 takes 10 Stun, goes unconscious at end of round
Driver Resist:
Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/416026): 8d6t5 1  takes 10 Stun, goes unconscious at end of round

Arthur
Ini (http://orokos.com/roll/416027): 10+4d6 25
25: Force Door: STR+BOD (http://orokos.com/roll/416028): 8d6t5 1
15: Change Drum Magazine
5: Shoot canvas roof w/ Brain Blaster
Shoot w/Brainblaster (http://orokos.com/roll/416029): 12d6t5 3 [12d6t5=6, 2, 5, 1, 3, 2, 3, 2, 4, 6, 1, 2]
18 P AP -1
Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/416030): 17d6t5 9
6 Damage to barrier, breaks
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-05-16/1204:00>

Jackhammer was just kicking the windshield free of its frame when Al saw some idiot pop out of the doubly-immobilized van with a weapon. He released the handbrake and popped the clutch, jolting the car out of the path of a stream of bullets. The guy was a helluva shot, though, and Al's tail lights exploded in starbursts of red and orange plastic even as he forced a window down to thust his arm out and display his middle finger at the offending shooter. More bullets spanged off his trunk and hardtop as he slipped behind some parked cars and out of the man's line of sight.

He heard Isaint say he was hit, which he figured must be pretty bad for the guy even to bother saying anything, but before he could worry he saw him take out the last van with a grenade. That seemed to be the last of the resistance - that he could see anyway, and he darted the car back to as close as he could get to his dismounted coworkers.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-05-16/1234:06>

Robyn's avatar shakes her head and grimaces.  >>We will be disappearing into Below soon and there is little about us, but I would suspect that a CID SWAT team is already on the way in reaction to all of the weapons fire here.  They will be swarming the building and vehicles we leave behind and will probably know who we are soon enough.  I will boot out and then go back in to get us a new ride after zeroing my score.  Won't be but a few seconds to get it done.  Dropping from VR................now.<<

She slips safely from VR and commands her deck to reboot as she looks at the foam covering the windows.  Laughing, she says, "All this white reminds me of one time when I was searching for an item in Nepal.  I had to stay in an ice cave for several days to wait out a blizzard.  Of course, I was not being shot at and the company was not as nice.  I have to say, Al, that you sure know how to dhow a girl a good time.  Now, what can I do to help while my deck boots back up?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <07-06-16/1845:05>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; The Harrowing, Harrow, London]

I enter the field.

No I do not. It would ruin my clothes. The clothes I just cleaned. Of course I will explain to the rest of the team that I am in reserve. They will need me to tend them after we escape. How can I tend them if I am dead?

I guard the Unclean Hound Mistress while the Dirty Old Cheater destroys our means of escaping this madness. I suppose it his own vehicle, but still it would serve to move us quickly from here under some protection.

Whomever launched that disgusting snow foam should be glad they did not hit me. I would hunt their family down. Instead I summon my will and project it forth. I think I strained something, the pain in my feet no longer concern me. I need to sleep. In clean sheets, with pillows and soothing sounds.

The sound rivals the obscene chinese celebrations of endless fireworks. It is much more harmful.

Did the sorceror drop a vehicle on Mr Roboto? I giggle.

The Polite Oni is asking me to have a Kami catch mortar rounds? I will have to re evaluate my opinion of the Oni.

My head bounces against the seat as the Dirty Old Cheater displays his ability to crash into every parked object around us once again. We should just leave. There must be something he has not hit yet elsewhere. Somewhere without so many bullets.

Since I am caring for the Unclean Hound Mistress I do my duty. I reach for the hound with my will. I remember perfectly how to unlock the metal prison they had me in so recently. The stupid beast is still asleep which makes this less challenging. I giggle. There is no room in this wreck. I ponder draping the beast on the hood, but remember this might cause the Unclean Hound Mistress more distress. I will have to carry it along with us.

"Please, I am bringing the hound along. It will not fit in here."

I demand the Kami conceal us. This will cost me extra devotions.

"Should I fetch the others to us as well?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-06-16/2029:38>

First the evildoers' van, now the abomidog.

"What'm I even wastin' fuel for? Reckon next up is Chitty Chitty damned Bang Bang," he muttered under his breath.

His windows were cleaning themselves, and the animal was floating beside them. Karasu was acting cool as a damned Japanese cucumber, but he could see strain on her face. "Jist dump it inna trunk," he suggested, indicating the open boot with a jerk of his unshaven chin. "An' hell yeah, you can give the rest o' them lollygaggers a little comealong we'll all be a mite better off."

In his side mirror he could see flames emerging from where Rick had been buried in foam...<<Rick, baby, that fire ol' Al's seein' a good thing or a bad thing?>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-06-16/2252:50>

Robyn is surprised that the Japanese woman is actually helping her.  あなたのご親切は、香良洲ミスありがとうございました。 私の仲間は私には非常に重要です。

Just then she gets the ping that tells her that her deck has rebooted.  >>Robyn is going back to VR to grab us some new wheels.<<  She sends her avatar back into the matrix and searches for appropriate vehicles, finding two vans parked not far away.  It is the work of seconds to place a mark on each of them as neither is protected by anything like a decent firewall.  >>I have two vans.  We can use both or take one and use the other as a decoy.  Ideas?<<

[spoiler]Thank you for your kindness, Miss Karasu.  My companion is very important to me.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-07-16/0146:52>

Deckard took a deep breath and held it. Hi body pounded against the rock solid foam and fire aura was quickly burning through the material. Some flames started to burn through when he received the message from Al.

Quote from: adamu on <07-06-16/2029:38>

<<Rick, baby, that fire ol' Al's seein' a good thing or a bad thing?>>

At that moment Deckard's form emerged from the prison surrounded by flames and black smoke. An aura of power was emanating from the Magician and so were magical flames from part of his body. His head slowly turned toward Al's car, then around as the elemental in him was looking for a potential enemy.

<<Goood... very goood.>> Was all Al heard. The voice was eerie, otherworldly.

Who? asked the Elemental. Looking for the enemy.
Nevermind. Said Deckard has he retook control of his body. He could feel himself stronger, faster, sharper, and surrounded by a cloud of toxic smoke. No need to stay there. He jumped through the flames and headed towards where the Morgan was encased checking Arthur was ok to move too.   
<<Robyn. Where's the Van? I'm expecting our prisoner very shortly. >>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-07-16/0206:28>

Isaint watched fascinated as Rick came around like a blazing phoenix. He also noticed the Valkyrie Module opening and the hound levitating away.

To Robyn's question he replied: << No need for decoys as long as we are peppered with RFID tags. Just get them here. I am literally sick and tired. And the London police will probably have one or two questions about the state of their safe house - including why some paralyzed gangers are buried under a ton of freeze foam.
Also, if there should be another round of foam incoming, we are fucked, so please hurry with the cars.>>

He gave a wistful look to the still intact VM - some tender ministrations of its autodoc would have been great, but there was no time. Likewise he couldn't call the Aeroquip, parked not far away on a roof. Those guys had hackers - not a good time to rely on an autopilot, even if he was slaved to his system.

With stiff movements he walked over to Al's car after helping Arthur out of the Morgan. Another 10.000 Euros down the drain.

#385

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-07-16/0301:14>

Robyn moves the vans in from the area just beyond the safe house.  >>Green van is moving to our position now.  Ten seconds out unless it is stopped.  Someone will need to take physical control of the it and get me to it.  The second van is white and will parallel our movement and be available in case we need it.  I am hoping that the one is all we need, but the second may escape their notice until we have to call it in..............if we have to call it in, and this way I will not need to go looking for a replacement if Al decides to play at bumper cars with it.  Can someone remind me if we are the good guys or the bad guys here?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-07-16/0538:48>

"Good guys or...woman, I am the forces o' truth an' justice personified, an' the world had best be grateful. As fer the rest of ya, well, ol' Al don't cast no judgments."

He was already out of the car and busy retrieving his rifle and a couple of big shoulder bags. Gear secure, he pulled some rags from the floor of the car and shoved them into the petrol intake on the multifuel sports car. Jackhammer was moving Robyn's inert form.

"Now these other fellers was definitely evildoers, though. They was shootin' at us warn't they?"

His big Zippo appeared in his hand, and a couple of vans were trundling towards them. "Ever'body out?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-07-16/0645:58>

<<Well, technically we are a bunch of terrorists who released a biological weapon during a shootout with some mall cops in a highly frequented public area. But yeah, those guys were sent to capture us by any means necessary. As soon as we are cleaned up and back in fighting shape we need to squeeze our prisoner about who is behind this shit and put a bullet through their brain pan, or this will only have been the first attempt.

So eyes on target - we aren't out of the woods yet>>

#386

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-07-16/0740:15>

<Whatever they wanted, shoulda just asked nicely.>>

He took a look up at the sun. Best thing about flare compensators was that you could look at the sun. He figured they'd be back in the eternal night of London Below soon, so he'd best catch some rays while he could.

Once everyone was loaded - including the hell hound, the captive mini-mage, and the robot ("'Nother blasted menagerie," he muttered) - Al lit the improvised fuse and got behind the wheel of the van, oblivious to the dismayed expressions of the passengers.

He wasted no time leaving the scene, concentrating more on speed than discretion. "Alrighty, then, someone tell me where we's goin'."

His bullet-ridden car erupted in flames as he left it behind in the foam-coated parking lot.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <07-07-16/1230:45>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Met Safehouse, Harrow, London]

As you begin to beat a hasty retreat your gnomish captive, looking only slightly less childlike up close, drifts over in the arms of Deckard’s spirit…still unconscious…now all you need to do is to find somewhere to hole up and begin to sift through all the damn RFID tags that have settled on you…what you will do about the ones that you will have inevitably inhaled is another matter…

***

#47

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-07-16/1318:11>

Robyn keeps the drones deployed as eyes and moves the second van in tandem to the green one, staying at least a street away and to the side.  She instructs her agent to return to identifying and killing the RFID tags.  >>I am glad we are the good guys.  I have the reg for the vans and will reimburse the owners if we destroy them.  Are we heading to the Below rendezvous now or driving about until the tags are gone?  By the way, I think we did pretty well just then.  Good teamwork, and all that.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-07-16/1440:25>

<<Teamwork makes the dream work, baby.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-07-16/1635:57>

<<That could take a while and this vehicle isn't exactly made for high speed chases. The sooner we can get our treatment the better. Going underground will also make it easier to have the jammers going without being conspicuous. At the moment we have mine and Arthur's jammer to keep us relatively safe, but it will only be a matter of time before our opposition has their own noise reducing gear in position to track us down. The sooner we get underground the sooner we are safe from goons with armored vans.
And incidentally, I could use a minute or two to get some cooling for my ribs.>> replied Isaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-07-16/1823:01>

Robyn's avatar nods.  >>Alright.  I can leave VR and still let the drones do their thing while I tend to your injuries.  Al, here is the route that should take us to the entrance to Below closest to where the mages are waiting for us.  Leaving VR...........now.<<

Robyn slips back to the meat world and moves over to where she can look at ISaint.  "OK.  Let's see what we have here.  Hoo-boy, you sure know how to get hurt.  As it happens I can help you."  Robyn opens the medkit she has been carrying and has been brought to the van with her, hooking several leads to ISaint.  Soon, ISaint is feeling a bit better and Robyn disconnects the leads.  "Anyone else need me to look at them?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-07-16/1841:18>

<<Arthur assist her with First Aid>>
"Thanks, yes, there, about two centimeters to the right. Oh... yeah that was the spot." Isaint and Arthur both tried to assist as best as they could in the confines of the commandeered vehicle, but Robyn showed no sign of actually needing the support, methodically cleaning and bandaging Isaint's bruises.
When she was done, he quickly buttoned his shirt again and closed the various armor layers. He felt better already, but the hurt was still very much there.
"Rick, you next. You look like death warmed over."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-07-16/1908:23>

Al tapped at his commlink with a tobacco-stained fingernail and routed Alyce's...Robyn's...directions to the HUD on the van's windshield. Checked the ETA. Glanced at the patch on the back of his scarred left hand. He figured he had about half an hour before he crashed, and wanted them all underground before that happened. Fucking Below. He shrugged mentally. He knew the job was dangerous when took it.

But of course he could never have imagined how dangerous.

There she was back there, crazy shades facing nowhere as her hands worked their medimagic on his coworkers. The last time he'd seen her they'd been approaching terminal velocity in a Cambodian river basin. But she must have worked on him after that in much the same way she was now. Or he'd never have woken up. Now, watching her fingers dance over Isaint's bruised flesh, he wondered how many....eyes on the road, genius. Places to go.

Things to do.

People to see.

Hell, they got themselves straightened out a bit, they had a damned wedding to arrange.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-07-16/2225:12>

Robyn nods to ISaint then turns to where Deckard is sitting.  She has to step around Jackhammer to do it, but he does not seem to mind as her chest passes mere centimetres from his face.  She applies the kit's leads to the mage and gets to work.  She is able to make better use of Arthur's assistance this time and the effect is much better.  If no one else needs me just now, I am going to check on my Hell Hound.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-08-16/0843:36>

[spoiler]
Focused Concentration:
Agility Boost: Agi Boost (http://orokos.com/roll/416776): 7d6t5 2
Focused Concentration + Adept centering: negating 7 points of wound mods, range and size modifiers
FA: Long Burst:
AGI 7 + Skill 6 + Smartlink 1
FA Burst (http://orokos.com/roll/416777): 14d6t5 4[14d6t5=3, 6, 3, 5, 6, 2, 3, 1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 3, 5]
13P AP -1 Defense -9

I'm assuming we are dealing with a Lockheed Optic-X2 and a police rigger based on the Chop Shop Mechanic from RF p. 183 with a R1 Rigger Interface in cold sim using full defense
Evasion (http://orokos.com/roll/416778): 3d6t5 0
Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/416779): 3d6t5 1
Obliterated

[/spoiler]


For the first time since the moment the biker gang had appeared, Isaint had time to take a focused look on his AR display and the warning one of his Agents had been sending for the last minute. "Shit, did any of you notice that we have a police drone tailing us?
Jackhammer, I'm opening the side door, be a dear an keep me steady while I lean out."
Isaint grabbed the shotgun from Arthur's back, made sure it had the right ammunition and concentrated: "VADE RETRO"

A stream of bullets flew blasted the drone from the air. He couldn't be sure if a rigger had been jumped in, but he hoped not. When he was back in he said:
"We can add destruction of police property as well as possession and use of a Class D weapon. We can expect a severe response. So let's get underground asap."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-08-16/1334:19>

Robyn grimaces a bit.  "Yes, I saw the Bobby Bird a couple of minutes ago.  It showed up just as we were trying to break free from the foam.  I did not feel much need to say anything about it as I suspect there are more than one such drone in the area or approaching.  It was unarmed and I have no real interest in antagonizing the Bobbies more than necessary.  I am already picking up a newsfeed from a drone that must be hanging about at some range.  The pictures are grainy, but I am sure that more drones are on the way.  I hope that a rigger was not jumped into that one.  I would recommend getting to the entrance to Below as quickly as possible."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-08-16/1450:33>

"I'll second the quickly part, cuz we jist picked up a tail - the kind with flashin' lights an' shit on top."

Al killed the van's safety features and floored the accelerator to blow through a red light. Commuter electrics ground to abrupt halts behind him as their anti-collision features did their job, effectively blocking the pursuing police cruiser. But it was already too late - a line of three more cars was already positioned ahead of him, blocking the way forward. He was on a surface street running parallel to the North Circular approaching The Hyde, so he decided to make his own on-ramp - crashed through a chain-link fence that looked like only weeds were holding it up and just about ruined the van's suspension bouncing down the embankment onto the busy A-road and into the traffic flow.

It would take them a minute to get behind him again, and Staples Corner, covered by a virtual roof of flyovers would cover them from eyes in the sky long enough to break contact. It wouldn't take them much time to reacquire, but by then they'd be close to the Below entrance...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-08-16/1523:45>

The moment of weightlessness during the jump reminded Isaint unpleasantly of his already much agitated and abused stomach. It took all his willpower not to hurl into his ballistic face mask. Instead he found a grip and strained his muscles to keep him steady for the landing - but to no avail, the landing was hard enough that he just tore it from its anchoring. Meanwhile his agents had found another four drones within a 100 m radius, closing in on their position. But at least they didn't dare to come closer after what had happened to the first one.
A constant grinding noise indicated that the landing had killed at least one gas cylinder of the suspension.
Over the noise of the car, the screeching of tires and the blaring horns of offended British commuters he called to the team: "OK, THIS WILL BE A CLOSE ONE. AS SOON AS THE CAR STOPS WE'LL HAVE TO RUN. JACKHAMMER YOU'LL GO FIRST. KNOCK DOWN THE DOOR OF THAT SEWER ACCESS. AL YOU TAKE CARE OF ROBYN, RICK YOU AND MRS: KARASU TAKE CARE OF THE DOG. ME AND ARTHUR WILL SECURE THE REAR AND DISCOURAGE ANY PURSUERS. DON'T GET SHOT."
Another needle sharp turn brought Isaint temporarily into close contact with Rick and immediately he felt the burning heat of his aura on him.
He continued: "I'LL DROP A GAS GRENADE IN PLAIN VIEW INSIDE THE ENTRANCE. WITH ANY LUCK THEY'LL PLAY IT SAFE AND WON'T APPROACH WITHOUT HAZARD GEAR. BE READY."
The AR map in his Vision showed them already within 200m of their target. Now 150, 100, 75... At that moment the screeching of the tire stopped only to be replaced by a loud popping noise and a wild swaying of the car. 30m away from their destination the car stalled, while drones and cars with flashing lights rapidly approached.
"MOVE, MOVE!"
Isaint had stumbled from the car and readied his rifle, while Arthur mimicked his movements. 'Shit' <<Arthur, do not engage human targets, only drones.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-09-16/0536:28>

Take care of Robyn, huh? She looked perfectly mobile to Al. He figured the best way to take care of her was to help discourage pursuit. He'd already pushed in the cigarette lighter, and as everyone piled out he pulled it free of its slot.

This was a '68 Aztechnology Governor, the sort of all-electric most people drove but Al would never be caught dead owning. They were a bitch to blow, but the geniuses that had designed it had run a brake fluid line way too close to the vanadium battery. On the way out he opened the battery access panel in the floor, reached in with his knife and cut some live wires close to the fuel unit, and dropped the lighter in. There'd be an electrical fire in a few seconds, and then the battery would go. That'd be enough to get into the brake fluids, which were flammable on this model, and ran through the whole undercarriage. There'd be no spectacular pyrotechnics, but the van would be a fully-involved blaze in about half a minute....

His boots were on the ground and he was running behind Robyn for the sewer access Jackhammer had just torn open...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-09-16/0733:00>

Robyn piles out of the van and moves with whoever has Al2 to the sewer entrance.  The Hell Hound being unconscious could be a blessing here as they levitate the large beast down the hole.  One of the drones sends Robyn the feed of the van catching on fire and she grimaces again.  "Well, we will bloody be replacing that vehicle, I guess."  She drops down the sewer after the hound and moves away so that the rest can join them.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <07-10-16/0021:59>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Harrow to Down Below London] #24

I listen as these people move. I move the Unclean Hound as needed.

The Polite Oni blows up a police drone.

It appears we are going to destroy more vehicles and move underground.

We scurry like rats into a hole.

A dirty hole.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-11-16/0448:29>

Steadily, keeping up a measured rate of fire against the drones closing in, Isaint and Arthur retreated from the burning car. Only when the last of his team members had entered, he turned around and ran towards the entrance. Not a second after that some police officer seemed to have found a grenade launcher, because now it began to rain tear gas canisters. Isaint didn't so much climb the ladder as he slid down, landing heavily on the ground. Arthur followed with the calm, deceptive speed of a machine devoid of anxiety or the need to breath.
"Ok, we move. Same order as before. Hopefully Metro-Police won't enter here without consulting a map first."
As he had said, he placed a gas grenade visibly on the base of the ladder before moving away with the team.

#391

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-11-16/0533:03>

Robyn is already moving and thinking of the next step.  She has pulled a map of the sewers from the matrix and flashes it to the team's 'links.  >>Team.  Attached is a map of this area of the sewers.  I have overlaid our route in red.  We will be at an abandoned tube station in about ten minutes and will enter Below from there.  After that, it is but a short walk to where the mages are waiting for us.  I have already talked to one of them and they are very interested in helping us, as long as I am willing to pay their as yet undetermined fee.  I have agreed to their terms.<<  There is a growl and a whimper as the massive Hell Hound comes awake at last.  Robyn moves to him and holds him as she brushes her face into his black fur.  Robyn looks about in the darkness and says, "Thank you so much, Karasu and Dekard, for taking care of my dear companion.  It appears that he will be fine now.  Also, my deck is trying to clear us of the RFID tags, but it is a daunting chore."

She uses her drones to scout ahead and to the rear, linking their sensor feeds to the team and using her own radar and ultrasound sensors to guide the team in the darkness. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-11-16/0757:19>

Al was still feeling good, real good, hippie good, but he knew the crash was minutes away. If those mages couldn't help (and their first performance had hardly filled him with confidence), then he'd soon be in a world of pain and suffering. Stimming with this weird disease in him might not have been the best idea, but then those guys hadn't seemed like the types to accept a time-out until he was feeling better.

Now here they were in a sewer, which he didn't mind terribly, and on their way back to Below, which he minded incredibly. Still, it'd keep the constabulary off their tails, and this next job sounded like one he could probably sleep through. Get a couple of people to get married. Sheesh. He figured they could just leave it to the women and otherwise coast through the whole thing.

Realizing the future was bright, he lit a cigarette and decided to relish the last few minutes of his drug-fuelled high.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-11-16/1936:13>

Deckard was in his own thoughts trying to assess his abilities while channeling a powerful spirit. It was something still new to him and had to learn how to handle it all.

He politely refused the care Robyn had to offer; now was just not the right time. And he doubted she could do anything for him right now.

Yukika had kept her spell on the Hound and though Magic Finger spells were not the most efficient for such a task, he let her do what she could to help. Instead, he focused on casting a simple levitation spell on the knocked out gnome mage and carried him along inside the sewer.

The mage was going to be a burden, but hopefully will be able to enlighten them a bit more on who were after them.

#75

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <07-13-16/1120:31>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London]
 
Below is as pungent as you remember it…you are clearly in parts less well travelled here, probably deliberately given that you are potentially carrying a disease worse than VITAS, at least to the magic rich denizens of this benighted underworld…
 
If the mages have a problem with your unconscious guest they don’t show any sign of it, working quickly and deliberately with a minimum of contact…during the course of the castings the gnome begins to stir…
 
***
 
#48

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-13-16/1616:25>

Isaint had debated with himself if he should wait to be cured last or volunteer to be the first. In the end his impatience won out. He took the lotus position and waited for the mages to work their Mojo on him. Relaxing himself and opening up his spiritual connection to his patron as wide as possible, he felt the mana construct taking hold around his aura. A tingling sensation spread from the base of his neck along his torso and limbs, bringing a warmth with it that settled his upset stomach and noticeably reduced the subtil pain he had felt in his joints.
Even more, he felt his aura gaining power and expanding outward, overwhelming whatever dual-natured bug had survived and fed upon him.

When the two mages stepped back his body reasserted that the bruises and abrasions were still there, but now he felt that he had gained a substantial amount of physical and spiritual strength. Staggering slightly he left the circle to make room for the next patient.
Together with Arthur he concentrated on securing their surrounding area.
"That... that was well worth the price of admission..."

When he saw that the small captured mage began to stir, he improvised a blindfold from gauze and bandages and secured the whole thing for good measure with duck tape. A set of steel hand cuffs ensured that the little gal wouldn't rip off the construction.
It wasn't foolproof, but at least she wouldn't be able to sling any combat spells at them.
"Rick, our guest is waking up. We need a mana barrier to prevent astral projection."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-13-16/1744:06>

Deckard was distrustful of the Mages. Not personally, he didn't know them. But more about what Mana could do to cure someone. He had brought Magicians and Shamans to cure his wife ; it had cost him a lot too. Yet, here she was, dead. In spites of their powerful Magic, they had been unable to cure her strange disease.
And what they had caught was pretty 'strange' too! Enough to freak out many people and, well he had to admit, him too.

But he was proven wrong. Quickly, his stomach cramps diminished then disappeared. He'll trust Robyn will later be able to confirm if they still had the Virus inside them, but for now, he was reassured, and had gained confidence that his body will be able to fully fight the bad bug.

Quote

"Rick, our guest is waking up. We need a mana barrier to prevent astral projection."

He opened his coat and drew his revolver out of it. Here is my Mana Barrier. Let her project if he wants, that would be very unwise. I definitely wouldn't in her situation, particularly after witnessing what we are capable of...
He rolled the cylinder of the gun for the Gnome to hear the unmistakable sound, then pressed the tip of the barrel against the prisoner's knee.
No mage would like to come back from the Astral missing a leg, and with a Ruger Warhawk shot, I can guarantee that's what will happen.
I'll let you proceed with the questioning...

He switched to Astral Perception t keep a close eye on the Mystic Adept's Aura. 

 
#76

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-13-16/1859:50>

As Al watched Isaint and Rick get the mojo treatment, he sat down against a damp cement wall and unslung one of the two big satchels he'd salvaged from his car. They were starting to get heavy. His stim was wearing off now, as was the adrenaline from the fight and chase. So he was not only crashing chemically, but the headaches, joint pain, and cramps were back with a vengeance. He opened the bag and pulled out his own medkit. It was a top-of-the-line model not unlike the one they'd initially used. He didn't bother with the diagnostics, just self-prescribed all the antibiotics the thing had, mainlining it straight into his left arm.

Seeing him preparing the injection, one of the warlocks, a dredlocked hippy with those big loops in his earlobes like he wished he was some maggot puree-eating primitive and not a Londoner born-and-raised, tried to wave him off, saying the meds wouldn't make any difference with the way they were going to do it. "Listen, kemo sabe, my trust is in the Good Lord an' the cures He done blessed us all with. Ol' Al knows how ta take care of himself without puttin' my faith in no godless devilry."

He put his throbbing head back against the wall to wait out a rising wave of nausea, and through half-slitted eyes saw Robyn nod to the mages. He dozed for a moment, and when he opened his eyes he jumped to his feet. "Well porn princesses in pink panties, feel right as rain. It's a damn miracle!" and when the rent-a-wizards smiled in acknowledgement he said, "Miracle o' modern medicine, that is. Told y'all I ain't got no truck with no Satanism."

Muttering "damned degenerates" and then stowing his kit, he stepped over to where Rick was holding a gun on the mini-mage's knee. "Can't say I don't like yer style, amigo. 'Ceptin' I reckon i'd've taken out one knee first, jist ta ante up, ya know, show the pipsqueak jist how much she don't wanna lose t'other one."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-13-16/2213:32>

Switching on his subvocal mic he messaged Al, with the rest of the team cc'ed. <<Look at her, she's one of us. A runner who got paid to do a job, and it turned sour.
She may not like us much, that doesn't entail to lose a  leg for it.
If she tells what we want to hear, she can go as far as I'm concerned. >>

He pressed a little harder on the knee and played along what AL said though I might just let you handle this then, amigo.

C'mon lady, why don't you just answer a few questions and spare yourself some hurt. Starting with this: who are you working for?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-14-16/0222:42>

Robyn sits against the wall of the temporary shelter, her arms around her Hell Hound.  She can feel it get stronger with every minute that passes.  She looks over to Al as he tirades against the magics that can heal him, but she is footing the bill for the healing and nods to the mages when Al lays back and closes his eyes.  She smiles at his words when he realizes that he is healed and allows him to attribute it to the medicine.  She then looks at the mages and lets the magic pour through her, cleaning the sickness from her.  In fact, it seems to have worked quite well on everyone.  Grateful, she looks at the pair of mages and says, "Thank you for doing this for us.  Please contact me when you have decided on your payment.  There is one other task I would ask you to do if you are capable.  Before leaving the fight we were just in, we were subjected to a cloud of RFID tags that are broadcasting our position to anyone who can track the frequency.  I am killing them, but progress is slow due to the sheer number of the tags.  Do you have some sort of spell that can neutralize them?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-14-16/0258:50>

"First things first." Isaint took the bio monitor from his medkit and fixed it to the mage's throat.
When the readout had clarified that she was indeed conscious he said: "At the moment you are underground and within a pretty strong jamming field, monitored by a drone with an itchy trigger finger, immune to any mind mojo you might be able to subtly lay on us. Any hostile action on your part will be met with lethal retaliation. As you probably already gathered, we are very pissed at you and your buddies about this assault. You have cost us valuable resources and also slightly inconvenienced us.
There is only one scenario where you are able to walk away unharmed from this: You tell us who is behind this hit and why they wanted to capture us. Anything else and you might find yourself in considerable pain, blind and in a very dangerous place where meeting a bunch of mind raping slavers might be your best case scenario.
If you don't want to talk, we'll just have someone probe your mind, but this further inconvenience will ensure that you won't see daylight for a long, long time.
You likely know who we are and what this team has done and is capable off. This is your only chance."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-14-16/0553:18>

Earbuds and mic still shot, Al nonetheless saw Rick's text on his commlink. Puffing on a cigarette as he watched the interrogation proceed, he texted back <<Ditto that. No stomach for hurting squaws if it can be helped. Just a little bad cop-bad cop. Let me know if you need anything. Closing my eyes for a tick.>>

And with that he slumped to the floor and dozed, hoping the questioning would take a while.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <07-14-16/1202:30>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London]
 
The gnome’s tone is light and it is difficult to tell, even from her aura, whether she really is as indifferent to her predicament as she sounds…
 
“Please do me the professional courtesy of ditching the macho bullshit!  I’m screwed if you want it to be that way so let’s dispense with the threats?  I have no particular loyalty to my former employers and see no reason why I shouldn’t tell you what you want to hear.  I was employed by an established team to limit your magical potential…their normal mage is off somewhere and couldn’t be involved for some reason…if they’d managed to do their job and bottle you up in the warehouse this might have been a very different conversation.
 
They were hired by a J I presume, they neglected to mention to me who that was and I elected not to ask.  I’m sorry if that’s not what you want to know but I’m just a subcontractor…”
 
***
 
#49

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-14-16/1554:14>

From where he sat on the wet floor a short distance away, Al spoke without opening his eyes. "Someone snatched me, tried ta git me ta rat y'all out, reckon that's jist 'bout the story I'd try'n tell too. Awful damn convenient. Hell, even it it's true, anyone playin' at this level gon' keep they eyes open, learn all they can 'bout who's they's workin' with or for. Little lady ain't exactly bein' forthcomin' with any o' that."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-14-16/1720:11>

"In exchange for our professional courtesy, you might want to extend the same to us. Even if you went into such a job naively and totally blue eyed without asking any questions about anything, you should have picked up some relevant information. For example where you would have brought us if you had managed to catch us. Or who these other runners were and who brought you into contact with them."
Isaint sounded bored and somewhat tired. He didn't expect to much from this little 20 question game. Most likely the gnome had read whatever intelligence reports there were about the team and had realized that none of them was a cold blooded murderer or torturer - except maybe the Priestess, but she was a recent addition and a wild card.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <07-14-16/1751:49>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #25

They bring mages to cure them in this dirty place. They go to work summoning their will and warping the magic to heal the flush and destroy the evil that lurks in their bodies.

FAB!

Insanity.

This should be interesting. Once cured of the terrible disease this group are merely murderers and kidnappers instead of terrorists incubating bio weapons in their own bodies.

The Unclean Hound Mistress is thankful and polite to her Healers, as she should be.

Ah, I see they would become torturers as well. Though this looks more like foreplay than real threats. With this group foreplay is a real threat.

The Dirty Old Cheater is correct when he says the Little Oni has more to reveal.

I consider intervening. I will. I address the Polite Oni.

"Please, do you wish for me to assist? I have some skills."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-15-16/0153:55>

Deckard released the pressure of his gun on the Gnome's knee and got up.

He nod at the Japanese woman and offered the spot were he was standing.

Please be my guess.

He took a few step back, his revolver still at hand and his Astral sight on the prisoner.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-15-16/0313:59>

Karasu's request gave Isaint a little shock for the tiniest moment. Had she been reading his mind? Or maybe she was just a very good observer or it was pure chance for her to become active now.
In any case he certainly wouldn't impede her:
"Thanks, that would be most helpful."
But just in case he also sent her a message: <<Please be advised that we don't actually want to harm her. We aren't that kind of people.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-15-16/0315:30>

Robyn stands and walks over to sit next to Al, her Hell Hound following to sit at her other side.  She digs a pack of fags from a pocket and shake out two, offering one to Al.  After lighting it with his butt, she sits quietly and smokes, one hand idly scratching the head of Al2 and the other idly clasping the hand of Al.  She keeps a constant vigil on the feeds from her drones and her sensors as she waits for the mages to decide if they can be of assistance with the tags that her agent and she are killing.  There are just so many of the bloody things.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-15-16/0701:07>

Al still didn't open his eyes when Robyn sat next to him. No reason to. Her hand on his, the smell of her hair, the heat of exhaled smoke, the sound of her breath. Certainly not as though he'd planned it, but working together on an ass-in-the-wind job like this - which seemed to be the only jobs in this business - had to be the mother of all bad ideas.

And yet here they were, thousands of miles and days from Cambodia. He'd kept her at arm's length there, figuring he was days away from trading up from the jungle to a Bangkok penthouse. But instead of silk sheets here they were sitting hand-in-hand on slimy concrete. It was as close to heaven as he ever had or probably ever would get.

A very dangerous situation. And the run was fairly hairy as well.

"Last time I come down here, I had my dog with me. Warn't no choice in it, but still a mistake I won't make again."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-15-16/1006:59>

Robyn does not have to look at Al to know his moods, as much as she was ever able to read his moods, that is.  "What do you mean, Al?  And I did not know that you had a dog.  What sort is it?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-15-16/1051:29>

"A real one. But my point is, that there beast is no doubt all ya need ta keep muggers an' other street filth at bay, an' like ta come in right handy on this here job ta boot. But if losin' 'im would be hard on ya, then this sorta work ain't no place for 'im. Punchin' above his weight, the crap we's like ta deal with, as we done seen."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-15-16/1550:23>

Robyn takes a drag on her cigarette and nods.  “My companion is real, Al.  You are right, of course, but issues came about a year ago where spirits were being sent to harass and hurt me and I had no real defence against them.  My companion here is dual natured, so he can see into the astral as well as the mundane and his attacks will affect the sprits.  He has already been useful in that regard more than once.  He is extremely loyal and brave.  I brought him along with me because I did not know what sort of companions I might have or if they would stick around.  Comments have been made that this group runs through trix and mojo specialists like water through a leaky tin.  I am going nowhere, but was not sure about the mojo slingers and did not wish to be defenceless against spirits, especially since we were going Below.  Also, we have been steady companions for about a year and he might not understand if I suddenly leave him behind.”
“I would like to meet Spike someday.  Anyone that can get that close to you must be special indeed.”
Robyn lights up another cigarette after offing one to Al then draws a rough-carved piece of wood from inside her shirt and holds it up.  “I think that your voodoo magic is still working, Al.  I have been in many dangerous places in the last eight years, and close to death several times, but this helped keep me alive.  This and the thought that if I died I would never see you again.”  She goes quiet for a moment then adds, “I am going into VR while they question the mage.  I will be able to do more to hunt the tags from there.  Please send me a message when it is time to come back.”  Stubbing out her butt out, Robyn slumps against the wall as she shifts to the matrix world and ruthlessly begins to eliminate as many of the little RFID tags as she can find.  She starts with a matrix observation to see if there are any tags that were set to silent and hiding in the midst of the obvious ones then begins killing all the tags she can find with much glee.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-15-16/1557:51>

Al was just as glad she'd given him no chance to respond about the pet. Her animal, her call. Hopefully he was wrong about its chances anyway.

Of course he was not surprised that his voodoo charm had worked, though he was kind enough to suggest that, "Well, glad it were some help, but reckon yer an old hand at keepin' yerself in one piece under yer own power."

And then she was off to la-la-land. Virtual limbo. Left him free to puff, doze, and listen with half an ear as Yukika did her thing with the she-munchkin.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <07-15-16/1613:25>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #26

I pause. They risk destroying an entire island nation, murder people who clearly intended to subdue, kidnap someone and I am losing my thoughts here.

I compose myself. I compose my argument. I make my statement.

These stupid devices.

<< Please, there will be some blood. If I promise she will live through this is that sufficient?>>

I move in front of the Little Oni and prepare. I wait.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-15-16/1749:08>

<<Please, no torture. But if you need her blood for other reasons, go ahead.>>
Isaint took a step back and concentrated again on securing their immediate environment.

#396

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <07-15-16/1921:21>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #27

<<Very well.>>

Foolish. The Little Oni would break far quicker if I could use the knife on her. Watch then! Polite Oni who would protect one of his own from my attentions.

I give the Kami my instructions. He will twist her mind. She will offer to aid us.

I stand before her till the Little Oni shows me her attention. I am still masked. I show her my empty hands. My left hand is empty. My right hand is empty. I show the front of each empty hand, I show the back of each empty hnad. I slowly get on my knees before her. My hands are still empty. My hands still in front so she can watch them.

I clap hands together before her. Ouch!

I giggle, no torture. I am not torturing the Little Oni. Oh no.

My knife is in my hand, it bleeds. More preciesly though my hand. I hold it before the Little Oni, blood dripping between my fingers, the blade running and dripping my blood before her. I smile at her. Watch me Little Oni. Watch me Polite Oni. ouch...

I touch the blade and hilt and move the knife, to show it is truly struck. I withdraw the blade from my hand. Slowly.  ouch...

I wipe it clean. I hold my bleeding hand before her. I summon my Will and seal the wound. I look into the Little Oni's eyes.

I summon my Will and fill her mind with Fear.

I comment, "I can play all day. I can play with you."

I speak with my Will. Will she Listen? Poor choice if she does not.

I point to the Polite Oni, "Answer him." I hold my empty hands out before me.

I will have to launder my pants again! Blood stains too.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-16-16/1438:32>

The matrix runs almost everywhere, even in this sewer tunnel that is providing them with temporary shelter.  Robyn commands her drones to fly out in both directions to provide some early warning of an approach by anyone.  The sensor feeds scroll past her vision and she shunts them off to the side where she can monitor them while she is in the matrix.  With a slight sigh, she closes her eyes and walks into a different world.  The collection of whatever the matrix is made of is the real world, giving access to almost anything to those how to navigate its byways and highways, and Robyn has been doing that for decades.  At times, she is more comfortable here than anywhere else and can certainly understand how some get addicted to the virtual reality.  The lusty warrior princess that is her avatar draws its sword and moves to do battle with the foe.  They may be weak individually, but as a whole they are a significant threat and must be destroyed.  She nods to her companion and the pair begin cutting swathes through the ranks of the enemy.  They move tirelessly, their swords never stopping as the foe fall by the score.  Twenty, forty, a hundred...........nay, a thousand, and it seems as if they have barely made a dent in the enemy ranks, if that.  The avatar smiles at the challenge presented to her.  This is piece work, but is very necessary, a slogging task that must be done.  The bodies of the fallen stack up around her as she keeps swinging.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <07-19-16/1055:17>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #28

The Little Oni is a Koborokuru. This much I determine on closer examination. This still does not explain the reluctance to spill it's blood. Being a Koborokuru will also make it very resistant.

It speaks. Glaring at me will do it no good. Displaying plain intentions give me the advantage.

"... Winter..." I have heard that name mentioned several times. The enemy is revealed.

Ah, they did not include me. Unsurprising since I have not yet insulted Winter. Go Gangs are so unreliable, and now I know more of them and can hunt them down and turn them to my service. They can useful tools as long as you understand their limitations as blunt intruments.

It explains enough that it is clear that they were only hired to capture the team. No doubt to use them as incubators for Bio Weapons.

This is all the use we are likely to gain from it. Time to dispose of it.

I await the sign from the Polite Oni.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-19-16/1438:23>

Isaint nodded as he listened to their captive spilling the beans. After she ended, Isaint stepped towards her:
"Good. I appreciate your cooperative spirit. Now I'll tell you a few things. As you might already have gathered, our team was exposed to a certain magical active bacterium and infected due to negligence from our employer and malice from Winter. 
As of now our team is free from any traces of the infection. Whatever it was, it now has ceased to exist. This should come as a relieve to you, since you yourself are awakened. Your team wasn't exactly prepared for a hazard transport which indicates that Winter probably would have captured you as well and used as an incubator like us.
My honest advice to you is to vanish unless you want to find out if Winter wants to keep you locked up just in case you also have become a carrier.

Secondly: You have probably read our profiles and know that the majority of this team generally is pretty civilized if not perfectly moral. So we will let you go - we won't even take a weregild from you, despite the considerable expenses you and your pals caused us. But as an act of restitution, we'd ask you to cast another, low level pulse spell on us to get rid of the remaining RFID tags your team saturated us without grilling the rest of our equipment.
Afterwards I can bring you to the nearest exit. 

Should you decide to contact your team despite my warnings about Winter, you can give him or her a message: He is on our shit list now. Each of us has a considerable number of resources and contacts. He really should think about it if he wants to aggravate us any further."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <07-19-16/1523:39>

"I told you, the frag ups weren't my team and I don't owe them any loyalty... I will cast the spell but it won't take out the hardened stealth tags, I would guess you're pretty much stuck with those until they go live and you can hunt them down. If you'd wanted more Intel on those you should have snagged their decker!

I'm Blossom by the way. If you ever have need of an anti-mage then you can find me again easily enough through the Threads host in Seattle or the Helix data haven..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-20-16/0512:37>

"Hardened stealth tags, huh? Reckon those're the ones the aliens done give ya when they come ta check on they pyramids. Nah, whatever yer witchcraft din't take out, Robyn will. She says we're clean, ol' Al'll take that ta the bank."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-20-16/0600:04>

Since their business was finished, the team was healed and they had gotten their answers, Isaint went to help Blossom get up and removed her cuffs: "There we go. Good luck on your next job. Who knows, maybe we'll be on the same side next time. But try to avoid opposing us again. Next time our mages might not pull their punches in time."
He turned to Robyn: "Can you update my map with an exit that isn't swarming with police? Rick or Mrs. Karasu, I'd like to have one of you as back up with me while I escort Blossom back. The other stays to cover the rest of the team. If we aren't back in 15 minutes, I'll leave it to Al to determine your next steps."

#398

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <07-20-16/0811:47>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London]

Well you are as clean as you are likely to get ready for a trip through the dubious pleasures of Below…that is assuming you intend to honour your agreement with The Old One immediately…technically you didn’t specify when you would fulfil your obligations, although it wouldn’t take a genius to realise he might be displeased if you are back down here without intending to do his bidding…

So that just begs the question how the fuck do you intend to arrange a wedding between two rival factions in this already fractious and belligerent society, one faction at least seemingly wanting your heads on platters for previous indiscretions…[i/]

***

Blossom gave Isaint a nonchalant wave at the exit and promptly disappeared from view as fast as her little legs would take her...

***

#51

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-20-16/0835:57>

Al's eyebrows shot up at Isaint's delegation. Not out of surprise - who wouldn't tap him for leader? - but rather in dismay at such a responsibility.

No matter, though. Isaint would be back, and if he wasn't, the course was clear - they'd go looking for him. Dusted.

So next up was the whole wedding planner thing. He still expected it to be easy. Hang around while the women talked about women's things. He wasn't really sure why he even had to be there for it, but it seemed important to the crazy old coot from Team Fate, so what the hell.

He was feeling plum tuckered out though, and said so - "I am feelin' plum tuckered out." - to no one in particular. "Been a helluva day. Don't reckon it'd hurt to set ourselves up somewhere, get some shut-eye afore we get down launch our careers in matchmakin'."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-21-16/0959:38>

Contrary to his expectations, Isaint and his companion weren't ambushed by any zombies, ninjas, pirates, cyborgs or zombie-ninja-pirate-cyborgs. Consequently they were back within the given time limit.
"Alright, time to move on. Looking at the current state of our health, I'd say we all could use some solid rest for a few hours. Since an above ground safe house hasn't worked out, we'll once again have to content with a hotel or guest house from Below. A temporary mana barrier against searching spirits and limited matrix activity should in theory allow us to have that time, before our enemy finds us through other methods.
After that I'd like to resupply a bit. That engagement took quite a bit of ammunition on my part.
Once we are safe we can start to plan how to facilitate an elopement / shotgun wedding down here.

And questions, suggestions or requests?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-21-16/1012:21>

Robyn is still lost in the VR world, although the number of enemy has decreased significantly and seems to be manageable.  It had been like a wave of death has swept over the battlefield, felling huge numbers of the foe.  The ones remaining could be left to her companion.  She slides out of VR to catch the last part of ISaint's conversation.  I actually have a small place in Earl's Court.  It is not much, but it could serve as a place to rest and recuperate a bit.  We might find source to buy your ammunition needs as well, but I would have to ask around to be sure.  But in any case, it is not too far from Nightshade, where you can buy anything.  Of course, there are small hotels in the area that serve the occasional Overworld visitor, but I have never used one so cannot say anything about them beyond what I have heard.  Interested?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-21-16/1045:17>

"A generous offer. If you have enough room and your place is defensible enough I don't see a reason not to accept. But as you by now probably know, you are risking a lot of trouble coming down at your home - especially since I intent to ask Al to once again prepare an emergency exit through one of the walls. That tactic really saved our collective bacon."
Isaint stretched, creating various popping noises from his joints.
"Time to get the game face on."

Isaint set his ballistic mask on his face and chanced the electro chromic display to resemble a Roman legionnaire's helmet and likewise changed his coat to resemble antique Roman armor. The Ruthenium-Polymere Cloak once again was draped over Arthur and activated, turning the drone within the poor lighting of the corridors into a wraith like figure.

He made sure to reload his Savalette with gel, his Ruger with Ex-Ex and his Crocket with APDS. Arthur reloaded with a fresh drum of Flechette.

#400

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-21-16/1310:01>

Deckard went with Isaint to bring back their temporary prisoner to the surface. He smirked at the irony of the Mystical Adept hunting down Mages, but as he has mentioned earlier, she was a runner, and as such had his respect.
Back down with the team, he couldn't agree more with getting some down time to recuperate. He knew he was going to hurt as soon as the Elemental within him would depart.

Whether he had been invited or not, it looked like he was now part of the wedding maker team. Which could have been fun, if not in the environment of Below.

He looked at Isaint changing appearance, then the rest of the team.

Al was his casual careless self ; Robyn with her steampunk style and 'branded' face tattoo, and well, quite charming elf face and features, was memorable, but easily discarded as just eccentric or stylish, and not so different from the bunch that was living Below ; Yukika was not obviously displaying any Magical affiliation. Now the rest was more of an issue.
Centurion ISaint with his Rifle and Quiet Jack in Full gel pack covered Body Armor would automatically flag them as ore than 'Tourists/Visitors. And that wasn't the kind of attention they all needed.

Guys, I trust we should keep a low profile down below, particularly if we are here to negotiate some sort of peace arrangements. Ballistic Masks and Military grade equipment don't really call for peace, if you know what I mean. I appreciate the dedication to protect us, really, and, sure, it does clearly say "don't mess with us". But I very much think this would attract the wrong kind of attention...

His words were true for himself as well ; walking around wrapped in an aura of Magical flames was not going to put people at ease, so he dismissed his Spirit after thanking it for the new experience and services.
Deckard almost felt his legs give away under him. The toll of extensive use of powerful magic was definitely there, and more than ever, was glad for Robyn to offer a place to rest.   

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-21-16/1828:28>

"Well Flame Off, Johnny Storm. Welcome back ta the land o' the un-possessed."

Al stood with a creaky grunt and stuck his hand into the back of his jeans to pull his boxers out of his ass crack. Other hand dropped his spent butt into the brackish puddle he'd been sitting in. Reached down to give Robyn a hand up. "jis hope yer place got some brews, toots. Treat me right, I might make the hole small."

Truth be told, he was going to have to work to make a hole at all - his boom-boom bag was running on empty after the stunt with the idol and then the last breach. Truth be told, he hadn't bothered restocking it since the last job, but there was no need to tell anyone else that. Still, ticking through a mental inventory, he reckoned he had enough odds and ends he could cobble one last bang together.

"Figure y'all metrosexuals can talk fashion while we walk. Sooner we git there sooner ol' Al gits his beauty rest."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-22-16/0200:34>

Robyn's heart almost bangs out of her chest at the touch of Al's hand on hers and it is all she can do to keep herself from completing the standing move and fall into his arms.  She sets her sensors back to full efficiency and lays a route on the map she sends to the team.  "This will be the shortest route from her to Below.  The link is an old abandoned tube tunnel station.  It was never finished and is not on most maps, but there is a connection to Below there, and not much else.  The Mechanica use it to ferry goods to and from clients Below and so we may meet some there, in which case they will help us and keep quiet about it."

As the team begins walking, she continues.  "My house there is a bit smallish but at all of us can fit in.  There are only two bedrooms and one bed in each, but I have a nice soft couch and two chairs as well.  The amenities are pretty basic, so don't expect fancy food.  In fact, it has been a couple of weeks since I was last there and I gave all the perishables away when I left, so that need to be restocked.  There is a small market near that can do that for us, but I do not think there are any munitions dealers there.  No, that we will have to go a bit farther afield for, but only to the Nightshade."

"I do understand that my house might be destroyed, but I hope it does not come to that.  It will likely be impossible to keep your presence a secret for long, but the Below people rarely talk to the Overworlders out of choice.  Questions?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-22-16/0314:57>

Isaint nodded at Rick: "How about a compromise." He held out his rifle and with a mental command it began fold in on itself until it was more like a compact block that he could stash in his back pack. Arthur likewise fed his rifle into the smart backpack.
"The Ruger will have to do at a moments notice. But my mask stays on and you all should at least put in a respirator. A sudden gas attack is the most likely opening to an ambush from the Druggies. If you have a gas mask, even better.

By the way, you wouldn't happen to have one more spirit in your service that could once again conceal us?

In any case: Everyone restart your electronic gear and be sure to have everything running silent."

Isaint and Arthur formed went to the end of the group, keeping an eye on their rear.
In periodic distances, Isaint opened his third eye to take a look into the astral. He didn't like what he saw: The team looked haggard with muted auras while their surroundings grew more and more sinister.

To Robyn he said: "Food shouldn't be a problem. I've got a few MREs with me. The only thing I require is a flat and dry surface to crash for an hour. And maybe a shower. A hot shower. A hot shower and a cold beer..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-22-16/1016:39>

Robyn laughs.  "A hot shower and a cold beer I can do.  And you are certainly welcome to one of the beds.  I think we can all use some rest."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-23-16/1754:03>

Deckard grabbed a small bag of chips form his duffel bag hanging around his shoulder. Shoving a few crispy treats in his mouth, he didn't wait to finish chewing before adding:

No need to compromise with me, I'm just cautious about attracted unneeded attention once we get further down. I know you guys have history here and understand the desire to not go the same route again, but I think we should keep a low profile for as long as possible, you know, to please everyone and get them to wed!

He shoved a few more chips in his mouth and casually offered the opened bag to the Priestess.

#80

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-23-16/1805:07>

Listening to Isaint's advice, and knowing it made sense, Al fingered the high-end respirator in his shoulder bag. But then an equation ran through his head like some sort of AR-ticker board, scrolling across his field of vision uninvited: badass coolness factor 0 x physical comfort 0 x ability to smoke 0 = chance of wearing 0.

He shrugged and promised himself to shift to internal air whenever they ran into any suspicious-looking hippies, then cursed himself for using such a redundancy in terms.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-24-16/1538:58>

"And you were quite right to say so. But my experience with Below so far tell me, that there is pretty much no way we can prevent from being spotted from one or more of the houses' spy networks." Isaint sighed behind his mask. "So, let's get a move on. I hope you all have comfortable shoes on. This will be a bit of a hike."
#402

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-24-16/2219:47>

Robyn smiles and ruffles the hair on the head of her companion and sets off. The map she sends to the rest of the team shows the way and her sensors and drones are able to give her advance information on what is ahead of them and she passes that information on in the form of updated maps.  Before long, the team approaches the abandoned tube station and her drones detect several people who have made it their home as well as three of the Mechanica that are in the process of transferring trade goods to group of four Below denizens.  Robyn alerts the team of the people ahead.  "We have company at the station that leads to Below.  Three of my Mechanica friends are dealing with four others, who appear to be from Earl's Court.  I do not know two of them them, but two are inked as I am and I have met them before.  My mask may disguise me, but they might see through it.  Should we remain here and wait or go forward?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <07-25-16/0059:22>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #29

How dissappointing. The Koborokuru is to run free. It would be a blessing remove her traitorous soul from the ranks she claims to belong to, Us Professionals.

I refuse to escort The Koborokuru free. The Sorceror goes in my stead.

Does the Polite Oni not realize the Dirty Old Cheat is a cheater? The only place I trust him to lead us is the dirtiest dive and order drinks. In that I know he is reliable.

While they are gone I bring out my knife and burn away all the blood. The dirty hole we are in is lit by my lightning blade.

I cannot use it to clean the blood in my clothes, for that I will need a laundry machine.

Ah they return, and now they talk some more. More bullets? How can they carry enough? The Unclean Hound Mistress offers to sacrifice her home for us. So we can do her shopping! Masks, Respirators, more discussion, shouldn't we be moving? The Koborokuru knows where we are.

I speak, "Please, the Kami still conceals us. Till the next turning of the world."

"I do not have a respirator. But we may proceed."

I still have sore feet and now we walk some more.

And now we get to meet the residents of this fine place.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-25-16/0335:09>

Isaint nodded to the Priestess: "Very sensible. The help of your Kamis is appreciated."
To Robyn he said: "The best course of action would be to wait for them to finish and go away.
But if you trust those Mechanica guys, you could ask them if they can wrap up their business, or  at least free up the way, so we can file past under the Concealment, without them taking notice of us."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-25-16/0958:23>

"As a group, I trust the Mechanica, but I do not know these three.  I would think the better course is to just wait for them to leave.  This entrance is not often used so there is a good chance that the tunnel will be ours once their business here is concluded."

It takes only another fifteen minutes of waiting before Robyn gives the all clear.  She reminds the others that there are several people squatting here but they are at the other end of the station and not likely to really notice the passage of the group, even without the concealment.  Robyn plots the location of the entrance tunnel on the maps and the team moves forward to an access tunnel that links the sewers to the tube and soon after are passing through the station and into the tunnel to Below.  It is a long walk, but Robyn's guess had been accurate in that the team does not encounter anyone before exiting the tunnel in one of the caverns that dot the underground labyrinthine makeup of Below.  Constantly adding more information to the team map, Robyn can now add directions to Earl's Court and her small house.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <07-25-16/1124:34>

Needless to say, Deckard was tired! borderline ready to pass out and having to wait still for another 15min while the Residents were making their business was not helping. He knew the pain though  -mana drain- and only some rest could help him feel better.

More trekking through the smelly sewer and derelict corridors and the group almost made their way to the Earl's court. He would gladly admit that without Robyn they'd certainly got lost and stuck in some  dangerous dead ends. He was thankful for her presence but grinned at the irony of being led into darkness by a blind guide.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-26-16/0206:24>

The Hell Hound certainly knows the place and spends some time rooting around, sniffing to see who has been here since his last time.  Finding nothing out of the ordinary, he lets Robyn know what she has already determined through her sensors and the drones flying around her.  "The house is empty and waiting for us.  Please wipe your feet and try not to move too much of the furniture around.  I like my things where they are.  Al I will show you the best place to plant your explosive devices in case you need to destroy my home to escape."

The small house that Robyn calls home in Below is located on the edge of Earl's Court.  She could have picked a place closer to the main structure, but she does not spend enough time here to really justify that.  Still, the house, even though smallish, is bigger than she really needs for herself.  It is almost like a typical British cottage, although with more stone than wood.  The door frame is carved with the same seven-headed serpent motif that is tattooed on Robyn's face and curves entirely up one side of the door frame and down the other.  Inside, the living room is of a size suitable to hold a long couch and three comfortable chairs.  There are two bedrooms off the living room, each with a single bed.  The kitchen is small but well appointed with many modern conveniences.  A satellite dish on the roof and several antennae inside the house allow Robyn to access the matrix even from here.  Power is provided, as is much of what is used in Below, by feeds from the surface as well as from natural sources found here.  On the mantelpiece of the stone fireplace are two busts.  One is clearly of Al and is a remarkable likeness, catching every crag and scar on his face.  There is a grin on his face and a cigarette hanging from his lips and he seems to be looking off in the distance.  The other bust is of a hauntingly beautiful woman, her smile and expression are enough to bring emotions of desire and yearning to the viewer.

Robyn leaves Al2 outside and leads everyone else into her home.  Please make yourselves as comfortable as possible.  There are two beds and the shower will have hot water in about fifteen minutes.  I think we need some food so will go to the nearby market and bring some back.  It will not take long for everyone in Earl's Court to know I have guests here, and your identities will probably be known soon after that.  I really think that it is fairly pointless to pretend much, but I leave that up to you.  ISaint?  May I have someone to walk me to the market?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-26-16/0313:20>

Isaint had taken in the cottage with one long look. By pure reflex he had checked every room as soon as he set foot into the house. He visibly flinched when he saw the bust of Al on the mantle piece and involuntarily looked at his companion as if to check that his head was still there. He dropped of his backpack in the corner of the room and directed Arthur to pull out the medkit and connect himself to the power grid.
To Robyn's question he answered:
"Of course, if you hadn't asked I'd have suggested it myself. I'll gladly accompany you unless Al or Jackhammer want to take on this honor.
Rick you get yourself on that couch. I'll direct Arthur to give you a medical massage and some mild muscle relaxants to help your natural recovery processes. Drain damage is nothing you should take lightly.
We'll rest in shifts: One mage, one bruiser and one specialist active, while the others rest. My suggestion would be Jackhammer going with you, while Al, Rick and I take a nap. I'll have my agent programs look out for approaching threats on AR and the wider matrix during your absence.
Unless you want me to accompany you I'll take position here with our Priestess until you return. The water should be  hot by then.
Mrs. Karasu, I hope I don't impose on your health by asking you to stay awake a little while longer, but if you could ward this dwelling against astral intruders, now would be the time. Use as many reagents as you need, I'll reimburse you. I don't want another mana static impeding the talents of 83% of our team."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-26-16/0354:33>

Robyn is looking anywhere but at the busts right now.  She does not need to as she remembers every line and crag as if she was still in Cambodia and allowed to touch him.  Now, she is not sure what he wants, but his words have heartened her and she can wait for this to be finished to talk to him about it.  She nods at ISaint.  "Jackhammer is a good choice, thank you.  We should be back within thirty to forty minutes, provided that we do not run into difficulties.  I am going for food to cook so does anyone have any preferences?  And Al, cigarettes are in the cabinet just over there." 

After getting a small list of things people like, Robyn sets off with Jackhammer for the short distance to the local market.  She removes her mask, exposing her facial tattoo.  She receives acknowledging looks and head nods from several of the people they come upon.  She does not know anyone they have yet passed, but her marking sets her apart from the common person in Below, especially in the Earl's Court.  This is her second home and she is accepted her.  Not only that, she bears the marks that tell others that she is favored by the Earl and has his protection.  Either that or the presence of the massive Hell Hound at her side gives her a certain respect.  At the market, she is recognized and welcomed back, although they look a bit askance at Jackhammer until she explains that he has helped her and is a guest at her house.  After that, the poor man is given some free food and several of the women, young and old, seem quite willing to make his acquaintance a bit more personal.  Robyn fills out her shopping list and gets a number of things that she adds to it.  She makes a sign against the evil eye as she asks if Yakob is still in the area and is told yes, although all in the near area who heard the question make the same sign of warding.  When finished with the groceries, Robyn and Jackhammer return to her house, her companion carrying pieces of paper with names and addresses on them from some of his new admirers. 

Back inside the house, Robyn sets her purchases down in the kitchen and begins to prepare a meal.  She is whistling her favorite tune from the Divine Horsemen as she works.  The kitchen is a marvel of equipment and she pulls pots and pans from cupboards and prepares a small feast for the team.  This time, at least, she prepares the dish that each person asked for, glad that her cooking skills are up to the task.  She points out the bar located to the side of the living room.  "I have beer, white and red wine, and I just picked up some saki at the market on the chance that Yukika might want some.  And with that, the meal is ready to be served.  Do we let everyone sleep or wake them while it is hot?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-26-16/0455:34>

"Thanks. It's been a long time since I had home cooked Kässpatzen, but I don't assume your market will have the requisite coarse-grained flour for my favorite dish. I'll be happy with whatever you prepare, although I wouldn't mind some real meat or for that matter Italian food."

When she had left, Isaint directed Arthur a bit more: The medkit was unfolded and the drone began to prepare a treatment regime.

[spoiler]
Aid Healing (http://orokos.com/roll/422261): 16d6t5 4[16d6t5=3, 6, 5, 4, 2, 3, 2, 4, 6, 3, 4, 2, 4, 5, 1, 3]
+4 dice to Rick's natural recovery.

[/spoiler]

Isaint had scraped his boots on the mat, but he was still uncomfortably aware of how his steps crunched on the clean floor. So he took a seat at the table, laid his Warhawk on a cloth beside him and began to clean his boots while still wearing them. Bits of dried containment foam, dead micro tags, and assorted sewage were cleaned off with a rag soaked in the cleaning fluid he had bought to destroy their DNA evidence. Now that the tension was leaving his body, he felt a bit light headed.
He was leading the team and people were actually listening to him. Somehow he still felt like a fraud, like it would only take a little push to expose him as an incompetent impostor. Luck, pure luck had prevented them from being pinned down and taken out by a bunch of hired guns. Agreeing to go to a police safe house... utter madness in retrospect. And now this place... Well at least there wouldn't be biker gangs and armored trucks around here.
Being unable to penetrate the dual armor of the vehicle and the driver had forced him to use more defensive measures like the disarming shots. Those had cost valuable time and allowed other opponents to damage them.
Arthur had proven to be an invaluable part of his defense. He stopped his thoughts going further in that direction. To much micromanagement, to little attention to their current situation.
When he was finished with boot cleaning he took another round through the house. More slowly this time, making sure all shutters were closed and that he had once again a working map of the place both in his head as well as in AR.
"So, while we have a few moments respite: Who wants to use the shower first?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-26-16/0735:35>

If Isaint had been taken aback by the bust on the mantlepiece, Al had been downright mortified. His jaw had dropped and his cigarette had tumbled out onto the floor, where it had smoldered briefly before he absently stamped it out. Muttering unintelligibly to himself he had gone to use the head, only coming out once Robyn and Jackhammer were gone. Then he'd set to work on the spot of wall their hostess had indicated.

With all his pre-prepared breaching charges gone, he wasn't satisfied with the work until dinner was served, but by the time he sat down to eat there was a painstakingly-measured combination of solid and foam explosive tamped against the wall with the help of some household implements he'd scavenged from the kitchen and bathroom. And he'd sticky-tacked everything together so it could be taken down and put back in his bag for use at the next location.

The food smelled good, he couldn't deny it, and it was nice to see Robyn's actual face without that ridiculous ballistic mask on it. None of that helped him maintain his conviction that she had gone completely crackers since he'd last seen her (or had she always been?). He ate in silence, not sure what might come out of his mouth if he spoke. Once finished, he figured the hours he'd spent on their exit entitled him to a sleep shift, and with showers for sissies and metros, he pushed the big sofa a few feet away from the wall and curled up on the floor behind it, using his jacket as a blanket and cradling the pull-detonator in his arms.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-26-16/1008:50>

Robyn is glad that she was able to find the ingredients for almost everything she had looked for and she had worked hard to prepare everything just tight, although the Kasspatzen had been a bit difficult as she had to reduce the size of the recipe to just make enough for two people.  The sounds of people enjoying the food was appreciation enough, but it did not hurt when the team gave vocal praise.  After dinner, she told everyone that there was no ration of the hot water and that everyone could stay in the shower as long as they wanted to.  After everyone began settling down, she went off to take a shower herself, wishing that Al would join her there but knowing he would not.  Finished, she puts a robe on and returns to the living room.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-26-16/1843:47>

Isaint almost couldn't believe what he saw: Genuine Allgäuer Kässpatzen, with real cheese and caramelized onions. "Well Robyn, I might just have to propose to you for this delicious meal alone. But now excuse me, I'll be momentarily occupied."
And true to his word, he didn't utter a single word again until he had cleaned his plate twice.
He took the next opportunity to shower. With a satisfied grin he saw that Robyn even had thought to leave a single bottle of beer in a small cooling jacket inside. Steam condensed on the cold surface while he eagerly drank it down as the grime of the previous 16 hours was washed away.
Afterwards he allowed himself the luxury to shave his beard, before he grew it anew - this time as a handle bar mustache - and also reconfiguring his face to resemble the current Prime Minister a bit.
Before getting back into his layers of clothing and armor he intended to get a bit of treatment by Arthur. Slinging one of the many fluffy pink towels around his waist, he left the bathroom to find a flat surface to lay on. The front of his entire upper body was one massive bruise where the thin layer of fat over his muscled frame had perpetuated the shockwave of being hit in the chest with a rifle bullet. 'I might be developing a little gut here. I've got to cut back on those shower beers.'
Being now fully aware of the bruise he called out:
"Arthur, attend to me. Sport medical program with massage."
It didn't take long for the drone to apply a soothing ointment, followed by a pretty hardcore massage that threatened to make him scream but instead forced a few pitiful whimpers from his throat. When the machine was done, every muscle in his body sang with pain, but was soon replaced with deep relaxation. Isaint managed to put on some clothes, before he let himself fall into a deep nap.

#406

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-27-16/0112:32>

Dressed only in her robe, Robyn listens to the sounds of Al sleeping behind the couch and someone sleeping in the other bedroom; Yukika by the count of people in the  living room.  Jackhammer and Deckard are slumped in two of the chairs and ISaint is showering.  When he calls for his manservant, she follows him to the door and watches as Arthur works his magic fingers on the form of the hard man who is the team leader.  The massage is obviously a good one, and a hard one, based on the whimpers it elicits from ISaint.  When Arthur stands up, Robyn is tempted to wait for his victim to stand but stops him by walking into the room and saying, "That is some massage, ISaint.  I am not sure that my fingers are any better, but I am a bloody good physician and have a good knowledge of massage techniques.  I think I have more practice with a softer, gentler version."  "She runs the fingers of a hand gently down the man's bare back, stopping at some of the more obvious scars.  "Interested?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-27-16/0231:54>

Isaint shuddered involuntarily. It had been quite a while since an attractive woman had touched him on his back, and even a longer while since that touch had been meant as a gentle one and not an attempt to disable him by pounding a pressure point.
Finally he managed to croak out a response: "I am sorely tempted by your offer." 'But considering the looks Jackhammer has given you and the complicated history with Al...' "But we are still on the clock and you haven't had a decent rest yet either. Getting back in fighting shape is the top priority now for all of us. But I may be taking you up on the offer afterwards when there is a decent chance that I can reciprocate the favor."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-27-16/0929:44>

Robyn smiles.  "The offer for a massage will stand for after this is done.  As for rest, I will get some if you would slide over a bit and give me some room on my bed.  I will keep my eyes closed if you want to put some clothes on, or you can just stay like this, if you like.  I promise that I will not attack your virtue in the night.  You have some interesting scars; I rather imagine that there is a story behind them."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-27-16/1012:02>

"Ha good one. The blind girl will keep her eyes closed. Don't worry about my modesty. You've worked as a doctor, I don't think there is anything new I could show you." Isaint moved to put on his underwear, tossing the towel for Arthur to catch.
"As for those scars: The top one is from an armor piercing round going through my armored suit, my lung, my armored suit again and straight through the axilliary artery of the woman I tried to protect.
The indent at my side was a six year old blond girl tearing away a chunk of flesh with her bare hand - or rather the Shedim possessing her lifeless body.
The parallel one down my ribs was the parting gift of a deranged vampire blood mage trying to carve her initials into my back while I shot her head off.
Oh and the little v-formed one was when I tried to open a ketchup bottle while being a dumb and drunk teenager."
Isaint flexed his body, eliciting a number of pops and crunches.
"Time isn't on the side of us Orks. At best I've got seven to ten more years of top performance left. After that it's going rapidly downhill anyway. No sense in leaving a pristine corps."

#408

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-27-16/1033:43>

Since ISaint is not being modest, Robyn lets her sensors play over his body as he moves to put his underwear on.  "Hmmm.  Very nice, ISaint.  I have had a number of Orks in my bed and I have to say that you compare favorably, at least visually.  Anything else we would need to explore on a more personal level."  She touches each scar as he describes it, running her delicate fingers along each one.  When he is done she says, "Well, if you are not bothered................."  Robyn stands and removes her robe, exposing her body to him before sliding onto the bed.  She is facing away from ISaint, so he can see the quite large tattoo of a seven-headed serpent that adorns her back.  This is a real work of art that pretty much covers her from the nape of her neck to just above the ass and from side to side.  If he looks closely, he can see that parts of it have been inked so as to conceal various scars in the details.  From the rear, he can also see the ink that covers her shoulder and upper arm in some sort of jungle scene.  It is not long before her steady and rhythmic breathing tell him that she is asleep.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-28-16/0746:27>

Isaint did indeed glance at her naked form - he wasn't made from stone after all - noticing the flensing done to her. Again he shuddered. This was one way to deal with the marks of torture. He did not comment on her remark since he had absolutely no idea how to gracefully reply to that.

Before committing to sleep he build his alarm chair, setting all items of clothing and gear down in the sequence he'd have to put them on. His Ruger found its place under the pillow. He had debated with himself about not removing the contacts, but decided that an eye infection was less desirable than to put them back in under pressure. Susi and the other Agents were now in constant search and protect mode, while he used the slump to have all his gear recharged as well.
Even Arthur was now standing guard near the power outlet recharging.

He tried to remember what else he should have been doing, but sleep came over him like a wave, taking him under almost as soon as he had closed his eyes.

He found himself standing back at home in his mother's kitchen. For some reason it was the same room as the old dining room with its heavy table decked out for a formal dinner. The smell was delicious and Isaint went over to his mother who intently stirred a large pot . He briefly wondered what had happened to the new food processor he had gifted her, but this thought didn't last as he peered into the pot and realized that it was filled with blood and not actually his mother but a deranged looking woman with greasy hair, sharp jagged nails and rotten, yet very sharp teeth.
"No, I killed you..." he wanted to say, but the woman had just put her index finger on his lips and he felt unable to move.
He stared blankly forward, only able to make out from the corner of his eyes as the thing - because it was no woman, hadn't been a woman for a long time - began to slowly circle behind him. He tensed for the pain that was sure to come, but instead he realized that he was standing in a cellar corridor in the children's hospital in Prague. At that moment he knew that it was a dream and yet this knowledge did nothing to dampen the terror. On the contrary: He knew what was coming next. He could already hear the tapping of little bare feet. The lights went out and he suddenly felt like he was underwater, crushed by the deep. But instead of cold it had become sweltering hot and still he was paralyzed, unable to move. And it stank of the rancid corpses that were drawing nearer with a hint of sulfur and methan. He felt something hot and wet slither over his face.

Isaint awoke with a start, staring wide eyed into the grinning doggy face of Hell Hound Al, who had decided Isaint was the perfect spot to lay down his own massive form.
"Robyn..? Could you please tell Al not to use me as his mattress?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-28-16/0958:14>

Robyn stirs at ISaint's words.  She kneels on the bed and leans over the Ork, her bare breasts brushing against his chest and coming dangerously close to his mouth as she reaches over to pet the huge hound.  She talks to it and the Hell Hound moves down to curl up at the foot of the bed.  Still leaning over ISaint, Robyn says, "There, is that better?  By the way, you were making noises in your sleep.  Do you need to talk about anything?  Am I bothering you?  If so, I can go sleep in one of the chairs."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-28-16/1749:00>

"Thanks. No. Not even if I were alone at home in my own bed I could prevent the memories and worries intruding on my dreams. But talking...
Let's just say I made mistakes in the past. Not mistakes exclusive made by me, but nonetheless mistakes that cost lives. In consequence I've hunted a few select monsters - partly as a penance and partly because my patron urged me to - that also left a few scars.
Being a light sleeper and a bit paranoid might be diagnosed as a form of PTSD, but on the whole it made me a more effective runner.
You have your own scars - both physically and psychically. You are very quick to open yourself up for intimacy, from my perspective you are in fact  weaponizing your sensuality and vulnerability. A bit like someone holding a live wire and waiting for someone grounded to touch you, frying you both.
But that isn't something unique to us: Our other companions all have their issues. I don't have to tell you about Al's quirks. Rick is... no, that's not something I should talk about. Karasu... I'm not making any headway in figuring her out, but if her interrogation methods are any indication, she has also a few... issues. Jackhammer is by far the most normal - if you ignore his anti social tendencies. And Iris... yeah, I'm not going there.
Suffice to say that I have problems with women and team mates I was meant to protect getting hurt or killed.
We came incredibly close to being captured. A few more drones or grenades... We had a lot of luck getting out of there. And now we are back in Below, ready to play Russian Roulette with to many bullets..."
Isaint closed his eyes. 'Damn it, you've done it again. You should build confidence in your team and not dissect their weaknesses. When will you learn to keep your mouth shut when you are sleep deprived.'
"Forget what I said. That was very unprofessional..."

#410

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-29-16/0126:32>

Robyn chuckles a bit as she reaches for her robe and gets out of bed.  She moves to a small desk and taps a cigarette out of a pack laying there before lighting it.  She takes a few heavy drags before talking.  "Yes, I do open myself up to intimacy quite easily.  I do not really know where that all started and it would probably take years of expensive therapy to get it sorted.  I am comfortable in my body and have few inhibitions when it comes to sex, very few indeed.  I do not spend a lot of time trying to figure my companions out because I am usually wrong in my conclusions and it is just easier to go with the flow.  I would dearly love to figure Al out, but he does not let me get close to him.  We were almost, almost sharing a bed in a penthouse suite in Cambodia, but he left without saying anything and I have wondered why for eight years.  I said or did something that was so fundamentally wrong that he just left, but frag if I know what it was.  I am hoping to try to pick up where we left off, or at least get an answer, but my feet get all so bloody tangled up with my tongue when I try to talk to him."

She stubs the butt out in a silver ashtray and stands.  "But you do not need to be kept awake by my ramblings.  I will go out to the spare chair in the living room.  Try to get some rest."  Robyn walks to the door after taking a spare blanket from a cupboard and makes a small noise in her throat.  The Hell Hound immediately raises its massive head and jumps down from the foot of the bed to follow its mistress.  The two go out of the bedroom and walk to the vacant chair, where the woman sits down and the hound curls up at her feet as she folds the blanket around herself.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <07-31-16/0344:16>

Isaint let himself fall back down on the bed again. Once again he had spoken without thinking about the consequences. With one hand he wafted away the smoke that had drifted to him. He really hated that filthy habit. But he had enough sense to at least shut up about that.
'Stop worrying about stuff like that. You should act like a leader - confident and calculated. Sympathy is secondary. Now back to sleep. You still need at least two more hours.'
The stern talking to he gave himself worked: Isaint closed his eyes and found himself back asleep within the minute.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-31-16/1420:29>

Robyn is fast asleep with a few minutes of settling into the comfortable chair, the warmth of the Hell Hound at her feet helping.  By morning, the blanket has fallen to her waist, allowing anyone awake to get a good view of her semi-open robe.  Although the tips of her breasts are not exposed, there is little left to the imagination.  Her sleep is undisturbed by dreams and she sleeps soundly, regaining her strength.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <07-31-16/2005:12>

Al slept hard and dark for about an hour, then his eyes opened. He was still bone tired, but it only took a few seconds to know he'd never get another wink of sleep. Not with her here. Here in her place, for pity's sake.

He crawled out from behind the sofa and she was the first thing he saw, dead asleep on an armchair, usual modest self. He figured if angels were real, here was proof.

But then the Devil had angels too, right?

Seemed like everyone else was asleep in one room or another, although even with the ork's eyes slitted, he'd have guessed Jackhammer had one ear open for trouble, along with at least half of one eye - the guy was a born bodyguard. Probably could sleep like a dolphin - half his brain at a time.

He looked at Robyn again for a long time. This was the first calm moment he'd had since the initial meet. There'd been some time at that storage unit, but she'd been awake, everyone else had been around, and there'd been a lot of work to do.

Hell, there still was.

He got a rough leather bundle out of one of his bags - not exactly travelling light since they'd ditched his ride, but then he'd been feeling a lot more like himself over the past few weeks, and they load didn't seem as heavy as he'd expected - he took out the bundle and unrolled it on the kitchen table, revealing a neat array of microtronics tools held in place by hand-cut loops in the the bundle's rawhide interior. He sat down, took out his tag eraser and the various components of his microtransceiver set, and had a good look. Tossing the eraser in the bin. But he spent some time with the transceiver - having to look at his 'link to stay abreast of the team's comms was just too much of a liability in a crisis.

By the time anyone stirred, he was putting away his things, a pile of cigarette butts stubbed out in an ashtray he'd found.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <07-31-16/2042:13>

The massive Hell Hound at Robyn's feet seems to be the only thing that stirs when Al wakes up and moves about.  It lifts its head and watches Al with those two blood-red eyes, seeming to partially understand what the man was thinking.  The hound's eyes linger on the man as he stands looking down on his mistress, almost as if sharing some secret only the two of them would ever know about her.  Some sort of silent communication passes between the two and Al knows that the hound would die before letting Robyn get hurt.  The Hell Hound puts his head back don on its huge fore-paws and closes its eyes, accepting that Al also has her best interests in mind and will let nothing happen to her while he is on watch.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <07-31-16/2156:17>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London][ #30

I eat.

I listen. I hear far too much that I do not wish to hear, but I cannot unlearn it.

I clean my clothes.

"Please I will set wards."

I meditate and set a circle of protection using supplies offered by the Sorceror. I shall remember my debt.

I watch. I Listen.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-01-16/1108:11>

Isaint awoke with a moment of panic - not knowing where he was or how he'd gotten there. The memories came flooding back and he suppressed a groan. He tested the bruises on his chest - still tender, but they didn't hinder his range of motion or his breathing. Arthur's brutal massage had also prevented his muscles from seizing up. Quickly and quietly he began to dress himself. Two pairs of socks - the inner layer treated with anti-bacterial silver, the durable black trousers with extra large an comfortable pockets and the chemical protection coating, followed by his silk shirt. He stopped to retrieve the contact lenses and put them back into his eyes. Despite using them for years now, he still flinched once or twice. The hair thin trode-net  went easily through his short cropped hair. Activating it brought as usual a short moment of nausea until the contact stabilized.
He tested his Wild Hunt jacket and was relieved to note that it had dried out completely. Putting it on he immediately felt the auto-injector plate secure itself to the base of his neck. The thin gloves followed. Finally he secured the iron cestus on his arm and covered it with the jacket's sleeve. Finally he donned his boots, making sure the straps fit tight.

Now he began the tedious process of pocketing all his guns: One taser went to his ankle holster, the other on his belt. The Ruger was stashed in his shoulder holster, while the Guardian went into the camo holster on his right hand side. Isaint hopped a few times in one place to ensure that nothing chaffed or jingled.
Finally he picked up his pair of glasses and set them on his nose. His face still had the shape he had chosen before he went to bed, so he didn't bother to change.

Only after he had kitted himself out like that he left for the bathroom. With empty bladder and once more empty stomach he tip-toed into the kitchen, where he found Al packing away his repair kit.
Nodding at him, he went straight for the fridge and build himself a sandwich and filled a glass of milk.

"Everything quiet while I slept? It's almost as if all those malevolent forces were on holiday..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-01-16/1141:28>

Voices wake Robyn and she access her house sensors to see where everyone is, as well as the outer drone sensors. Her robe is still gaping a bit as she moves to the kitchen and bends over at the refrigerator to remove some food that she then carries to the counters, where she begins preparing a morning meal.  "So, it will probably be a pretty normal English breakfast, this morning............eggs, bacon, sausage, and the like.  Hope no one minds terribly.  I do have real meat to add to it, though, so I do not think anyone will be too disappointed.  What are the plans for today?"  She cooks the breakfast while talking and soon the aromas of real coffee and real meat cooking fill the air inside the cottage.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-01-16/1730:19>

"Thanks. Nothing better than to wake up to the smell of coffee.
Our plans are rather easy to describe: For the first part we'll sit down, eat, drink and figure out together how, where and when we can get our targets, where we can hold the ceremony and which witnesses we need to gather.

If I remember correctly, we need to contact three officials from the Houses to act as witnesses as well as a Guide of the Court of the Holy - whoever that might be - to perform the ceremony.
And of course which holy site we should pick.

If we have that, we can tackle the problem of getting the two lovebirds in place."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-01-16/1940:15>

[Yukika Karasu - Monday July 6th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #31

I meditate still. With the turning of the world I make my devotions to the Kami.

It sounds so simple assembling a crowd of people to perform a ceremony against their natures. As if they are pieces on a board. I could force it at the price of eternal shame for shaping such a sacred ceremony to my base desires. I seek a better challenge.

I listen so I can learn more of this group.

The coffee smells reasonably good.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <08-02-16/0237:55>

Massage, rest, food, more rest, shower, more food; that was a well deserved mind and body boost they were all getting. For those who could sleep, at least.

And Deckard could, without any worries of what could come at them or what was waiting for them in the next few days. He was the first to sleep and the first hour, after a surprisingly good massage by an androform drone, was probably the best he had in a week! He was only waken up by the smell of cooking, and what a feast. Robyn could skillfully mend a wound and a hungry stomach. Once ready everyone ate in a non awkward silent. What could have been awkward was the amount of food the thin mage was engulfing. He probably ate as much as twice-his-size Jackhammer and then some,  he even tried the German dish and seemed to appreciate it. Thinking of it, his companions could have notice he was often found snacking on something, chips, candies, lollipop, sandwich... and surprisingly his figured remained pretty slander...

He thanked Robyn and went back to resting a bit, waiting for his turn to shower. The hot water was rejuvenating and relaxing. He didn't stay long though, knowing the more sleep he could catch the better. Surely ISaint wanted someone on watch at anytime, but he felt pretty safe here, and was sure somebody else would be volunteering for it, or crazy/paranoid enough to take care of it. He walked back inside one of the bedroom to see what was available when he 'stumbled' upon Robyn and ISaint. He put a hand halfway across his face and apologetically dismissed his presence. Sorry! don't mind me, wrong room.

He never bother going to the other room. Out of courtesy and manners, the priestess should have had the room; and the couch was more than he needed. He put his clothes in the cleaning drone appliance and wearing the bear minimum, settled himself on the couch covered by a blanket. Next to him on the floor only laid his bag and his revolver.
It felt a bit strange knowing Al was right behind, but it took only a few second to ignore the thought and try to let the sleep settle, once, twice... he couldn't. Something else was disturbing him... He looked at Al realistic bust set on the chimney. He extended his hand with a rotation motion and the statue almost silently turned around to face the wall. 
Satisfied, he could now close his eyes and sleep came extremely fast.

Once again waken up by a delicious smell, he made his way to the kitchen, rolled into the blanket. He didn't mind not being the first to be awake and up, be seeing ISaint already in full gear reminded him, they still had a job to do, and though pretty vague, he should really get his mind into it... though his real concern right now was really to make sure no one would notice his morning boner...

'morning peeps.  He addressed almost everyone . 'morning soldier. he said when his gazed met ISaint's. Robyn, a couple more night like this and I may forget my prejudices about Below...
He grabbed a cup of coffee then head to the bathroom to wash his sleep away and get dressed in his freshly cleaned clothes. When he came back breakfast was made. How lovely... He kind of liked that team after all.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-02-16/0359:09>

Robyn is pleased that the team likes her cooking.  She has never trained professionally, but she has gained much experience in the field and her skills are undeniable.  She sits and listens to the chatter at breakfast, comfortable with pulling her knees to her chin and sipping at her coffee.  Once the others are finished eating, Robyn takes the dishes back to the kitchen and begins a wash up, carefully putting everything away where it goes.  Done with that chore, she asks if anyone minds if she showers and moves toward the bedroom.  On the way, she stops, feeling that something is amiss but not quite able to put her finger on what.  Carefully searching her mutated mind, she finally realizes what it is.  Moving to the mantel, she touches Al's bust and moves it back to where it should be, wishing that she could put her hands on the face of the real Al.

She steps back to observe her work and smiles at the effect.  Perfect.  As she heads to the bathroom, she calls over her shoulder, "Al, there are fags in the drawer of the table near you.  Help yourself to all you want as I have more."  Robyn disappears into her bedroom and closes the door before removing the robe and going to the shower.  She emerges feeling clean again and goes to the closet to take down a set of her Big Game Hunter armored clothing.  Once dressed, she returns to the main room and the others.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-02-16/1216:22>

Some long ago sage had said that a way to a man’s heart was through his stomach. An equally timeless if rather less genteel admonition to women wanting to please a man took it a step further with: show up naked, bring food.
On either count, Robyn was the one to beat.
Al savored his English breakfast in silence, his interest in the upcoming matrimonial assist hovering somewhere below zero. He’d read up a lot on this degenerate underworld since his last visit, praying the knowledge would never come in handy. But he must have addressed his supplications to the wrong deity. So here he was. As such, he’d been able to provide a bit of textbook guidance on the legalities of the thing. But from there he was entirely at sea. And any constructive thoughts he did have were nearly drowned out by the pulsing in his temples whenever Robyn…well…whenever Robyn did pretty much anything at all.
He watched her clean up the kitchen – knew her place, he’d give her that – and then when she announced she was going to take a shower he lost all sense of reason and self-preservation and decided to follow her straight in there. He was just putting his hands on the edge of the table to push away when she put her hands on that eye-searing statue, and the spell broke with a resounding crash. There was no pause in his movement, but he went just far enough to reach the cigarette drawer she’d indicated.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-03-16/0319:15>

Resounding silence answered Isaint's attempt to start the planing session. Keeping his calm, he buttered himself another piece of toast.

Undeterred, he continued with his monologue:
"I'll take your silence for assent.

One of the first things we should do is trying to contact Iris once again. She had a full day to tackle whatever it is she was doing. She and Robyn will have to be the ones to identify and contact the witnesses. Preferably people who are both reliable, cooperative and - most important - able to keep their mouth shut as long as the knot isn't tied yet.

Furthermore, I think it would be a good idea to get the Harlequinade on board. Something tells me they'd love to be included in festivities and also it might stop them from mocking the Flowers, but that can't be helped. But it will be a lot easier to secure the ceremony with a bunch of murder clowns on hand.

Does anyone know how to secure a holy site around here? It would be nice if they did bookings and reservations, but that's probably to much to hope for..."


#414

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-03-16/0507:47>

"Well, venues, witnesses, holy dudes, that's all gotta be lined up, sure as shootin'. But seems ta me yer puttin' the cart afore the horse here."

He stubbed out his cigarette, looked at his coffee, turned up his nose, and went to grab a beer. Standing by the refrigerator, he continued. "Ol' Cap'n Fate said these two lovebirds been carryin' on fer a good year now - leastways as best as they plumbin' allows - an' that they'll even come ta us if we ask. Reckon they contact info's on that chip the old coot's messenger done brought us when we was chowin' down with the mimes. So rather'n try figurin' out all these venues and priests an' so forth ourselves, reckon we talk ta the brides-ta-be theyselves first. No doubt they got they own idears on all o' that. It bein' they weddin', after all."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-03-16/0525:25>

Isaint nodded:
"Yeah, possible. Count it up to trust issues,  but I'd like to already have some options in hand before I contact the little drug princess. Makes it much easier to negotiate if we are prepared and can dictate the pace. Also it minimizes our operational exposure.

We have to ask ourselves, who will be our most dangerous opponent. Contrary to what the Old Guy said, I expect the answer to be: Influential elements inside those two houses. Otherwise they would have managed this marriage on their own.
Therefore we have to keep this secret anyone but the two love birds. And since we really can't guarantee if those two can keep their mouth shut or if they are monitored, I'd like to already have a plan in place that we can enact with minimal delay after telling those two about it.

And yes, those are the same principals I used to employ when dealing with security for celebrity principals. Need to know basis only for untrained civilians."

Meanwhile he sent a message to Iris' commlink: <<Hey, you still alive? We are back Below. Give us a call if you can, we need to talk>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-03-16/0546:01>

Al shrugged. "Yer world, kemo sabe, you wearin' the hat. Security's a good thing, no doubt. Jist sayin', right now these two're happy ta git hitched an' happy ta have our help. Start messin' with they perfect day, an' we may be askin' fer opposition from within as well as without. Not ta mention they'll be a helluva lot more knowledgeable 'bout options down here, an' they witnesses they choose themselves'll be willin' participants, not draftees. Couldn't hurt ta blend yer approach with a bit of a soft touch. Remember, it's all fer nothin' we put ever'thin' in place an' they don't say 'I do'."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-03-16/0610:05>

"You are right. Having to consider romance and emotions in the plan is really tedious but probably unavoidable.
So we'll work this as a two pronged operation: Gathering our own intelligence about possible options on witnesses and holy places as well as making discreet inquires with the two brides.

Any volunteers for tangling with the drug princess?"

#416

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-03-16/0719:36>

"Heh heh. Don't look at me. I'm jist the brains o' this here outfit. 'sides, either o' them gets a look at me, they's liable ta change teams an' then we'll have better luck marryin' a chicken to a whale. Reckon we leave the sweet-talkin' ta our womenfolk, at least two o' whom seems ta have much more, er, enlightened view o' the goin's on down here 'an we do. Speakin' o' which, can you be one o' the witnesses, Robyn?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-03-16/1007:45>

Robyn puts her cup down and nods.  "Strictly speaking, yes, I suppose.  I am a marked and protected person and member of the First House.  As such, I should qualify as one of the witnesses.  And I would also volunteer to visit the House of Flowers, if you like.  I am personally neither on good or bad terms with them at this time and should be accepted there.  I might currently have the most freedom of movement down here and could also go to the Courts of the Holy to seek an official and a location.  I should be safe on my own, but would not turn down an escort."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-03-16/1941:55>

"Well, if'n yer goin' fer a sit-down with the Flower Folk, first thing I'd say is it shouldn't be any of us three 'at goes with ya," Al said, obviously referring to himself, Isaint, and Jackhammer. "Other hand, ol' coot done said it was precisely us three had to be right there in it." He drained his beer and tossed it at the bin from across the room, missing it with a clatter. Reached into the fridge for another. "Then again, yer goin' fer a powwow with what passes fer Holy down here, well, ol' Al's a man o' the cloth too. Hop, skip an' a jump from ordination, I reckon, if'n I'd jist stuck with it. So we might speak the same language, them an' me."

Al knew she supposedly would be safe enough among these freaks, marked as she was. But he also remembered she'd said something about being tortured by someone down here, which told him the tattoo rules held about as much water as any of the others down here - which was to say about as much as a thimble full of holes. He wasn't at all sure what to do about her, but he sure didn't want to see her drugged and raped to death in some Flower Fun Fest.

He looked first at her, and then at Isaint, to see what they thought.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <08-03-16/2239:12>

Iris paused in rolling the stocking up to daub at the small sanguine splotch marring the otherwise-pristine creamy skin of her right thigh. She sighed, shaking her head. There was always one who refused to go cleanly...

Iris sighed. It had been an eventful twenty-four hours. She looked around the small, pay-by-the-hour doss in Lambeth, sighed, and shook her head. It was unlikely anyone would notice the difference. Shame about the wand, though. She had others, thankfully, none so puissant but that would serve well enough until she could craft a new one. There was no way this one would feel right now, and using as a shiv had damaged the aesthetics somewhat.

Iris returned to the business of getting dressed. Stockings, garter clips, panties, dress. Boots, cloak, hair, call from an overly forward and hardline mercenary...

<<Little busy here, luv. Had a bit of a personal problem catch up with me on my way down Below. Iris: 1, Thugs: 0. Be there as soon as I can. Where am I headed and do I need to bring anything along for the trip?>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-04-16/0135:40>

Robyn stays silent for a bit as the others talk, then speaks up softly.  "You're not going to leave the can on the floor, are you, Al?  I might miss something like that and slip on it, embarrassing myself by falling on my arse.  And I try hard to avoid embarrassing myself."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-04-16/0249:30>

Isaint's commlink chirped. While he read the message, he made a little gesture. Very slowly and wobbly, the can lifted from the ground and placed itself inside the trash.
"Good news, Iris is back online. Mrs Karasu, it seems as if you'll be able to talk to her after all."

He nodded at Robyn: "I assume Iris knows about this place? So I'll just text her back to come to "Robyn's cottage."

You'll get a companion to go with you and it seems as if its going to be a full mage one way or the other. Take your pick... except for Rick.
For one thing I'll need his expertise..." 'For the other, if he is still the man I learned to know, he'll take strong objections to the Flower's practices' ..."for the other, it will be best if another native of Below deals with the Flowers."

He sent the message to Iris <<We are at Robyn's cottage, just your charming self and all the weapons you are comfortable carrying with you>> and followed it up with another to his weapons dealer then he continued:
"If Robyn can be a witness, all the better. We'll take a closer look on the chip to see if that's within the limits of what we can do. But I am reasonably sure they won't accept Al as their holy man. Mrs. Karasu might stand a better chance at that."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-04-16/0751:27>

Al watched in dismay as Isaint casually levitated the empty. Now even the bossman was dabbling in witchcraft.

"Heh heh, like I done said, never did quite git ordained. An' even if I had..." He let his voice trail off with a shake of his head. "Point of order is, ain't none of us can do that bit. It's gotta be somethin' called a Guide from they Courts of the Holy does it. An' ain't none of us wearin' that particular nametag."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-04-16/1016:35>

Robyn nods.  "Iris will know where this is.  She has indeed been here before when we came Below looking for Cali.  But now I am confused.  Did you mean that someone besides me should go to the House of Flowers?  Or just that perhaps Iris would make a good companion?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-04-16/1043:32>

"I meant that if you go to one of the Houses you should not go alone. You've worked with Iris before. Sending you two seems like the perfect solution to ensure you are protected from matrix, astral and mundane threats equally.

Well, seems like it's time to read that chip."
Isaint fished out one of his cluster commlinks and inserted the data carrier.

A quick command and the content was displayed in AR for all to see. Knowing Al's dislike for this technology, he also sent him a text copy:

Targets:
House Laésal (The Flowers)
Name: Cara Laésal (by adoption), third of her line
Metatype: Dwarf (although looks more human)
Age: 23
Notes: A healer by trade she was plucked from obscurity to be raised up by her adopted house

The Iron Company, The House of Senjak
Name: Tamsyn Senjak, fifth of her line
Metatype: Orc
Age: 18
Notes: Already a prodigiously powerful magic user she is being groomed for the ranks of the Iron Company

"Hm, that's not too useful on it's own. But it should be enough to get their comm codes."

#418

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-05-16/0608:24>

A few seconds of fruitless search dashed that hope: Both house members didn't seem to have a permanent matrix presence or even a commcode to their name.

"Seems like it will be real legwork to get in contact with them.
But you'll need a cover story why you two want to meet them... Oh well, since we went to all that trouble to establish our band identity, you can as well say you want to invite them to an exclusive concert.
Hell, if we manage to get the Holys in on it, we could even say we stage it in Earl's Court Cathedral. Would certainly make it easier to invite the witnesses. At least the two lovebirds can then have a wedding and a celebration..."

Isaint stopped talking with abject horror on his face. "Did I just endorse the idea of us staging a concert with a secret wedding in front of a crowd of Below residents?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-05-16/0726:17>

Al thought for about two second, belched, and said, "That's about the cockamamie idear I heard in a month o' Sundays. But then, hey, ya gotta choose the right tool fer the job, an' since ever'thin' down here's apeshit bonkers, then when in Rome, ya know? Go big or go home. Reckon ya gotta git yer Court o' the Holy on board. Figure that out then, well, long as our lovely lesbian lovebirds don't already have their hearts set on someplace in particular, then there's a lot of advantages ta be had."

He started counting on burn-melted fingers. "Yer after-party's done built in. Holy spot, check. Availabiity of a Guide, check. Place where maybe they ain't supposed ta be stabbin' an' poisonin' one ta another, check. Excuse fer the witnesses an' the happy couple ta all be convergin', check. Beauty is, aside from the principles, no one has ta know what we's cookin'. Hell, even the witnesses don't have ta know, do they? How's that fer yer precious opsec, hey?"

He cracked a third beer. "An' if Iris is back, that'll help with the concert thing considerable. Robyn can sing well enough herself, hell, more'n well enough, but with most of us Philistines playin' roadie or guard, that last show she was lookin' kinda lonely up on stage. Toss a front girl up there alongside the cello action, it'll seem more like the band we done advertised."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-06-16/1048:00>

Robyn nods.  "I have an old acoustic cello here at the cottage.  Or we can go get our things from the Harlequins.  In any case I can play.  And yes, I am sure that Iris's voice is better than mine and would welcome her assistance in this.  Now, are we planning on keeping the reason for the concert a secret from the Courts of the Holy as well, or bringing them in as co-conspirators?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-06-16/1152:19>

"Consarn it, woman. Never said better, jist...more, um, bandlike, ta match the fliers we done made, seein' as they's got her moniker on 'em."

He tossed is third empty at the bin, but was more careful this time and scored an easy two points.

"As fer how we handle our potential hosts, well, reckon it all depends on whether we think they'll say yes. An' since ol' Al ain't got the foggiest what the definition o' 'holy' would even be down here...figured you ladies 'at spent time down here would have a better read on they clerical types...or could go have a sit down, feel 'em out a bit."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-06-16/1300:46>

Robyn laughs.  "It is OK.  Her voice is better than mine.  I can sing well enough, but my real talent is in playing.  And, like you said, we did make up the fliers.  But it will be an abbreviated group if we do not recover our equipment.  As for the clerical types; they are another of the Houses and so have their own agenda and are full of "holier than thou" sorts of people.  I would definitely recommend a visit to sound them out before giving them any sort of big reveal."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-06-16/1348:25>

"Well alrighty then, someone better go talk to 'em. But still reckon first order o' biz is findin' the brides. They's the only two people down here - Cap'n Fate aside - who we know is groovy with this whole deal, and they's also the only two people whose cooperation we absolutely gotta have. Once we git inna room with them, they'll be able ta give us a lot more info'n we's got right now 'bout who's on our side an' who's agin' us. An' seein' as how they don't seem ta believe in no public directories down here, we'd best start beatin' the bushes. We know a little about 'em now, figurin' where they might hang shouldn't be rocket science."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-06-16/1456:56>

Isaint sighed: "Alright, I'll think I'll tackle those Holy guys. Al, you and Mrs. Karasu might as well accompany me. Rick can try to track down via the Astral our targets. Jackhammer can guard Rick's body while we are out.
What kind of bribe do you think will be appropriate for those guys?"

#420

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-06-16/1456:56>

"I agree, but it means that we need to start looking about.  When did Iris say she was going to be here?  Should I wait or just leave for the Courts of the Holy by myself and let her link up with me later?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-06-16/1501:38>

"Iris didn't say, but I'd give her an hour. If you want to meet up with her somewhere else you'll just have to try calling her link. But no rush - we'll get into trouble soon enough."
Isaint replied sardonically.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-06-16/1547:36>

Al grabbed his shotgun but left his rifle and bags behind the sofa. He handed the detonator to Jackhammer - it was a simple pull job - in case he and Rick needed to beat a hasty retreat. Splitting up - especially down here - went against his grain. But the sorts of conversations they were planning to have, you couldn't really do them showing up at someone's door with six or seven bodies. And the bane or whatever it was had supposedly been lifted.

Trouble was, some big chief calling off the green light on their asses didn't make the hippie slavers want them any less dead...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-06-16/2234:30>

Robyn laughs.  "Bribes?  The normal, I suppose.  Souls for the parish, donations to the roof fund, something like that.  Now you three try to be careful.  And stay in touch."  As the three make their final preparations, Robyn goes to the mantel and removes the bust of Al.  She talks softly, but no softly that the others cannot hear.  "It is into the bin for you.  I guess I do not need you anymore, do I?  The real thing is here for now, and it is so much better."

She smiles at Jackhammer when they are alone with a nearly comatose Deckard then disappears into her bedroom.  The man can hear some strange noises coming from the other room then an "Aha!" from Robyn.  She returrs to the living room carrying a battered cello case.  The leather has cracked in places and most of the latches have been replaced, as has the carrying handle.  She takes it to the table and opens it, removing a wooden cello.  This is very far from the cello he has seen her use before.  The wood glistens and Robyn almost kisses it, running loving fingers along the grain and up the neck.  She carefully pulls a bow from the case and rosins it up before taking the instrument to the living room and sitting down to tune it.  She hesitates for a few moments then draws the bow across the strings and there is no doubt as to the quality of the instrument or the skill of the cellist from the first stroke.  Robyn's mind guides her hands and fingers through some of the greatest music in history.  She has studied professionally and knows songs that date back hundreds of years as well as modern masterpieces.  Her mind is the conductor as she plays.  She has an audience of Jackhammer and the Hell Hound and the unconscious mage, but it matters not a whit.  She plays with every bit of skill she has, as if she were playing to crowded music halls.  It might seem funny to a casual observer, but there is almost no passage of time as she plays, almost as if she can force time to stand still for the music.  By the time she finishes, tears are flowing from sightless eyes and she knows that she has played well, probably as well as she has ever played.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-07-16/1716:51>

Isaint shrugged: "Everyone wants something. But we'll find out soon enough. You mentioned getting your equipment back from the Harlequinade. That's also something we should tackle asap. I've got to practice my drummer skills if we really want to pose as a band again."

When Robyn had ended her piece he clapped politely. "Beautiful. Hopefully the Lovebirds will share your taste in music. It would be a shame if they insisted on troll thrash metal..."

#422

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-08-16/1848:19>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #31

The Unending babbling is interrupted by music giving me time to reflect back on what has been said.

I recall the conversation of the past few minutes.

Ah, out of the mouths of Onis!  Depending on the rules of this society it may very well work to gather all the appropriate people in one spot and perform the ceremony. In fact it may function if none of them are aware and it is only revealed after it is accomplished in front of thousands of witnesses. Those of power, such as in these Houses must always have the acceptance of the masses. They will hold their rules if this is done so publicly.

I accept the challenge.

Iris I will deal with later.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <08-09-16/1949:26>

"Yeah, sweetie, you did."

The voice, low and purring was Iris', and yet unlike her earlier high, clear tones. The stride, too, was different as she came in upon the assembled team, more of a swaying, deliberately sensual gait than the measured, perfect grace of the day before. Her masking was down for the moment, and she seethed with power, rich and wild and passionate, desire and anger and the remains of fear fueling her as befit her tradition.

Iris leaned on the doorframe, cocking a hip and tilting her head, a small, teasing smile on her face, which was far closer to Isaint's eye level than her stature should have allowed, thanks to a pair of high, crimson ankle boots. She wore sheer black stockings that came to mid-thigh with red bows under a Hong Kong silk skirt, a flirty red Vashon Island number that probably cost half as much as her car. An overbust corset, black with red laces went above it, the stiffness of it owing more to delta-amyloid armor coating and kevlar panel inserts than boning, and a floor-length cloak of shimmering black, shot through with little streaks of red like dying stars completed the ensemble.

The blood spatters on her thighs, right arm, and left cheek really tied the whole outfit together.

"Sorry I'm late." Iris said guilelessly, calmly unbuckling the shoulder holster that held her wand and a much-customized Viper Slivergun. "I had a personal problem that needed to be attended to. Creditors, you know?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-10-16/0425:54>

"Well lookee lookee," Al said, taking in the stunning yet always somehow disoncerting sight of their erstwhile colleague...and deputy team leader. "Reckon the gang's all here now."

He made a point of not glancing at Karasu as he spoke.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-10-16/0507:02>

Isaint looked up as the door opened. "Welcome back, glad to see you alive. Null sweat. The substitute you organized for us helped us secure the transport of the artifact to the buyer. That part is wrapped up. Unfortunately another thing came up: As a quid pro quo we now have to organize a contested wedding.

But, no hurry - do you want the debriefing or a shower first? I think i saw some Peroxide in the bathroom if you want to get the blood out."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-10-16/0937:28>

Robyn had been aware of Iris' approach but had not said anything because she was expected and she had not finished her piece.  Intuiting that her practice session is over, Robyn stands and carefully places her cello on the couch before walking over to Iris and bussing her cheeks.  "Welcome back, dear.  I trust the complication has been dealt with? We were worried about you when you disappeared and did not let us know what was wrong.  Anyway, you know where the shower is so help yourself.  We can discuss what we are doing when you come back out." 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-11-16/0746:35>

Al was restless. Car crashes and firefights he could handle. But this. They'd been just on the verge of heading out when the strains of Robyn's - hell, Alyce's - cello had sucked them back in. He'd heard her play in their little concert they put up for the underdweller degenerates, but that hadn't been his thing. Too much like Tabasco on ice cream. But the little impromptu thing she'd just done, dammit, that had been something else.

Something celestial.

Which could only have been made by someone celestial.

As if he had any expertise on matters heavenly.

So here they still were.

All those nights whiling away the time in Andoung Tuek, holding out for something better. Some place better. And here they were in her actual home. And of all places it was in Below. She actually lived in the worst place on - well, under - the earth. And he knew from bad places. Okay. Fine. He'd known she was mixed up with these freaks, among other undesirables.

So start again - here he was, with her after al this time, in her actual home. Along with all of his coworkers and a monster.

The whole thing was like a nightmare wrapped in a dream come true, and he wanted out.

"Well, looks like the ladies done got they end under control here, an' ol' Al's gittin' ants in 'is pants. Wherever we's headed, bossman kemo sabe, what say we head there?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-11-16/0815:07>

Isaint had a bemused look on his face when he answered Al: "Trouble with being able to stay still often leads to trouble with being able to move, but I get where you are coming from. Despite the delicious meal and the nice company I'll be much happier when I can leave Below again.
So, marching orders:
Rick and Jackhammer: You stay here. Rick: try to find out what you can through the astral. If you can make contact with the lovebirds great, but pinpointing their location will do as well. Jackhammer: You keep an eye on Rick and on the com. You are our mobile reserve to come and bust us out should we fuck up.

Robyn, you fill Iris in on the details and then use your connections down here to get either an audience with one of the two, or at least find out how we can contact them without anyone finding out about it. Maybe grease a few palms with the lower echelons of their houses, but you probably know better than me how to go about that.

Al and Mrs. Karasu, you are with me. We'll head out first to the harlequins to get our equipment back from their custody and afterwards visit the Holys and the cathedral to see if we can book that as our venue.

Any questions, proposals or expletives?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-11-16/0955:13>

Alyce can always tell when Al is looking at her.  Something just seems to change in the air whenever his eyes glance her way. and she is still affected by that.  Probably always will be.  She gives a small smile as she has to almost physically restrain her hands from removing her clothes for him.  Even after eight years apart, she wants to be naked and feel his gaze on her body, admiring her form, touching her in ways no other person has ever been able to.  She shakes her head and forces it back in the game.  "No questions from me right now.  I will get Iris fully informed and we will go try to locate one of these kids.  Both, if possible."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <08-11-16/1312:09>

Iris waved off Robyn's offer of the shower and turned her gaze on Isaint. "Debriefing and updating first, I think. I can always clean up on the way if we have to haul hoop out of here in a hurry." She unfolded gracefully, coming off the door frame in an easy, liquid motion, crossing to a chair and sitting down with a sigh, careful to arrange her cloak so that she sat on it rather than the chair's cushion. Crossing her arms over her not-unimpressive chest, she said, "So explain to me what I've missed in the last twenty-four hours, or are there questions you'd like to have answered first?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-11-16/1407:39>

"No questions at the moment. I'm dreaming badly enough as it is." Isaint replied then cleared his throat: "Right, what you missed: After the pub we went to my rented warehouse to build our disguise as travelling music band. We got your message about your troubles and made our way through the Containment Zone to an entrance where Robyn had some contacts to get us in.
Crossing Below we were first waylaid by the Old One who tasked us with this new job in exchange for information and free passage to the Plex. I'll get to the new job later. We made our way into the underground mall without blowing our cover and established ourselves at a former bakery to stake out the target. Getting into the vault went without a hitch - we used nearby steam tunnels and vents to get close to the secure room and carved our way through with mono saws. The artifact was surrounded by corpses. In retrospect that was the first sign that the intel of our employer was shit. We managed to get the chest out, but Robyn noticed that we already had a bunch of drones searching for us. On our way back to Below we were accosted by some plain clothes guy, tased him, and ran for it. We manged to break through the checkpoint but not without having our freight punctured.
Turned out there was a biological agent inside after all - just next to the artifact. Even worse it was a contagious version of FAB III, infecting us.
We managed to plug the breach, hid away the stuff in a secure container and called some specialists to disinfect us. Sadly, that wasn't enough as it turned out.
On our way out to that bar we picked up the Priestess as your back up. Once we arrived we had to learn that our employer had bugged out and instead left a medical scanner. He already had learned of the breach and demanded we get tested before the hand over. At this junction we also learned that our Mr. Johnson had been played by a dissonant technomancer called Winter. This person was after the artifact and FAB III, wanted to buy it from us. Since we have principles and that techno seemed to be a total cunt, we withdrew strategically.
Since we were on a head on collision course with some severe diarrhea, we decided to do a dead drop with the artifact: We placed it wrapped with det-cord at some old cemetery and called the Johnson to fetch it. Pay went through and he received the deactivation code. After that we went to a safe house of the metropolitan police - courtesy of Mrs. Karasu's contacts - to plan our next step to get rid of the plague. We weren't there for more than half an hour when we got attacked by a team of heavy hitters and a hired go-gang. We made our way through them, getting banged up quite a bit in the process and losing a few of our transports, but we managed to catch their mage and take her with us while being chased by the police in a stolen car. We torched it and went Below, where another pair of healing specialists - courtesy of Robyn's contacts - helped us get rid of the infection.
The mage told us that Winter was behind the attack and after the FABIII. We parted on benign terms and went straight here to get some R&R after all that action.
Now about the new job: The Old One tasked us with restoring balance to the Houses, blaming us for the dive that the Druggies took after their bone headed moves against us last month. A marriage between two girls from the Flowers and the Irons was the chosen method of fixing an alliance between the two. Only problem is, that quite a lot of people inside the Houses seem to be opposed to that idea.
So our job is to pull this wedding off, with all the necessary ceremony.
So far our plan is to stage a concert to get the necessary witnesses and public to the holy place without arising suspicion and then have a quick marriage before anyone can stop us.
To this end we now need first get contact to the two soon to be spouses, so we can get some details on who we actually have to watch out for. That's what you, Robyn and Rick are tasked with.
The rest is off to secure the Cathedral and one of the Holys for our gig - and also the help of the Harlequinade in setting up the concert."

Isaint took a long gulp from his water. "So that's about it. Questions?"

#425

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-11-16/1746:54>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #32

The Polite Oni babbles on. I refrain correcting it's minor mistakes. I think I understand now. It is a figurehead leader. Pointed at a target and allowed to pursue it's course. A shield for those who will truly make the needed decisions. I shall think upon the group and where the leverage is, though I doubt the need.

How does Iris want to play this? It will be an interesting choice regardless. I nod my acknowledgement to her when my presence is recounted to her.

Necessary Ceremony is not quick. Not for the Old Ones purposes.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-11-16/1806:48>

For the second time in twenty minutes Al had been in motion towards the door when a woman stopped him.

There was a lesson there.

"I'll be outside," he said to no one in particular, and out he went.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-12-16/0102:05>

Robyn sits in her chair after picking the cello off the couch and carefully begins to play a very soft chamber piece as the others talk.  Aware that Al has left the room, she knows that he can still hear her, but is not sure that he cares.  So much of her life is in some sort of internal turmoil.  Just now, her first instinct had been to leave the cottage behind Al and take a smoke with him, but on further thought she has decided that might not be best.  She is well aware of her record of saying the completely wrong things to him.  It is perhaps better that she just play things quieter around him and let him do most of the talking and it would probably save on shoes and stockings if she can keep her feet out of her mouth. 

So she sits and plays quietly and provides a soothing backdrop to the conversations around her, her talent coming out in every note.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-12-16/1107:41>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #33

The Dirty Old Cheat leaves. I check my shoes, then follow him.

Our mission is to retrieve some equipment and speak with other priests and establish a venue.

It's usually I that is approached for a ceremony and determining whether or not to use the Green or Red Pavilions.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-12-16/1619:43>

One more out the door.

Progress.

Al could hear more cello from inside. A siren's song. Almost enough to drag him back inside. But that'd be eating crow.

So he was glad Lady Raven showed up. She had her nose pretty high towards the sky, but he still liked her. She knew who she was.

"おはよう、カラスさん。いや、こんにちは？こんばんは？この地下の地獄に区別できん、ねえ、姉さん？”

His gutter Japanese was far from natural as he mused about being unable to tell day from night in this underground hell, but he thought calling her big sister was a nice touch. He figured she was younger than he was, but it was a lot more about perceived station and comportment than chronological age, and he didn't mind buttering her up with a bit of linguistic respect.

"ラッキー・ストライク、どう？”　he said, offering her a smoke.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-12-16/1812:22>

"Seems like one part of the team is getting antsy to go already. See you later."
Isaint got up and exited the door.
"Alright, Mrs. Karasu you are in the lead. I trust your are more familiar with the ways down here than us. First stop is with the Harlequinade to retrieve our gear."

#426

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-13-16/1430:44>

Robyn stops playing as the group breaks up and its component parts head off on their own missions.  She carefully puts the ancient instrument back in its case and takes it into the bedroom to place it in the hidden spot beneath the floor, where is it protected from almost damage that might bring the house down.  Back in the living room, she looks at Iris.  "Back together, again.  Thank you for coming back; we really need your skills and talents.  I guess it is off to the Houses to find the women.  My recommendation is that we hit the Iron Company first and hang about to see if we can spot our target as she leaves the compound."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: BrickyardBabe on <08-13-16/1516:19>

Iris nodded. "Yeah, that seems like a solid plan." She sighed. "Okay, so his description was a little long on editorializing and a little short on what the frag now. I get the gist, mind, but when he told me where you were, he said," Iris screwed up her face and pitched her voice low and gravelly, "Bring all the weapons you can comfortably carry." She shrugged. "I'm sensing that the pucker factor on this run is extremely high, so give me your opinion. On a scale of one to ten, one being a milk run and ten being a" Iris made air quotes with her fingers, "'milk run,' how deep in the drek have I decided to go wading by coming back?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-14-16/0147:44>

Robyn laughs as she removes her glasses to polish the lenses before replacing them.  "Let's talk as we walk.  We have both lived in Below enough to know that there is nothing lower than a five down here.  This could easily escalate to something near or past a ten.  The Old One set three of the team on this mission to see two of the Houses joined by marriage.  Apparently ISaint, Al, and Jackhammer were bad boys down here a while ago and managed to embarrass the House of Flowers by escaping their clutches and killing some of their best assassins.  The druggies lost some reputation and swore everlasting hatred for these guys.  Apparently, this mission is supposed to heal those wounds and make everything alright.  A daughter of Flowers in apparently in love with an Iron daughter and would desperately like to tie the marriage knot, but there are some in both Houses that are against such a thing.  The mission given our heroes is simple, but the Old One was vague about the execution of the plan.  In this, we are simply filling supporting roles, you and I, as the real work needs to be completed by the three men.  Now, you and I both know a bit about politics down here and can appreciate that this might be a tough sell if the House leaders are not behind it.  Any ideas?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-14-16/1145:24>

As the small group moved through the underworld of Below, Isaint again felt that low level danger all around him. He tried to make an AR map, so he could trace his steps back if necessary, but he soon noticed that they had to take a lot of detours.

When they once again reached the compound that the Harlequins had taken as their own, he relaxed only a bit. With a loud, sharp knock at the door he tried to gain the occupants attention, but the door opened before he could knock again.
The painted face above a lithe, athletic body of a girl in a very snug fitting body suit looked at them:
"Your return was anticipated."
"So I see. We are here to recover our instruments and we also would like to ask a favor."
"You are welcome to your possessions. Please come in."
Isaint looked at Al and Karasu, shrugged and entered behind the mime.
"We are about to arrange a concert and we need access to two highly placed members of the ruling houses. Can the Harlequins help us with that?"
"A concert? How nice. But I am afraid your request comes at an inopportune moment. Hecate and her retinue are away on business and we won't commit to any course of action without her guidance."
"That's your final word, eh?"
"You are in luck that you are getting any words from me at all."
"Mime on a break, I get it. Thanks all the same, please tell Hecate about our request nonetheless."
The girl just nodded and led them into an adjacent room. The two mule drones were there, just as they had left them.
"Well, nice meeting you. Bye."
The girl just tilted her head as if he had said something incomprehensible - or incomprehensible stupid.
Resigned, Isaint added them to his PAN and led them out of the building.
Outside he said:
"Seems like we'll have to do that on our own. Hopefully the Holys will be a bit more forthcoming to our requests."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-15-16/0054:04>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #34

"Domo" I take the Lucky Strike from The Dirty Old Cheat and smoke it. The Polite Oni joins us and we venture below. I do not know this place well, or at all, but the path once found I cannot forget it. The Kami guide me to the place we seek.

I watch the Polite Oni speak to these women. Diviners apparently. It would be interesting to test their limits, but that is not why we are here. We leave them. Their reaction is unsurprising.

This cannot continue if I am to serve correctly.

I address the Polite Oni, "Please, there is a place we can share tea and discuss how I can help you in this matter?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-15-16/0220:48>

"Sure. Lead the way. I had hoped anyway that you could lead the negotiations with the Holys."
Once they had reached the tea place and had seated themselves he said: "Alright, what do you have in mind."

#428

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-15-16/0949:57>

Al held up a hand. "Beggin' yer pardon, yer Priestessness, jist a couple things afore ya git started. First, let us not be fergittin' amidst our cogitations that ol' Al was tantamount to a man o' the cloth 'imself. So bear in mind that godless though these degenerate heathens are, we may have a shared sense of the weight, the burden if ya will, o' carin' fer a flock. Ya prob'ly done seen it in me, that deeply ingrained sense o' nurturin' an' pastoral care."

He took a sip of his tea, then winced at the bitter taste and let it dribble back into the cup. At the same time, he held up one finger to signify completion of his first point, then a second finger to show he was starting on his second. Looked back up at his two coworkers.

"An' I'm wonderin' if we don't have time ta drop these instermints back ta the house. Reckon a couple o' robot donkeys followin' us 'round is seriously crampin' ol' Al's cool factor. Simstar in trainin' here, ya know. Can't hear the theme music with those things around."

He pushed the tea away from himself and wiped his stubbly chin on the sleeve of his bomber jacket.

"Right, points made an' taken inta consideration. You got the floor, there, Karasu-sama."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-15-16/1048:01>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #35

We choose a small street shop which is really a pair of tables and stools in the passageway next to power to operate a tea kettle and fry a local delicacy. Rodent meat is involved. The tea has been boiled, that we can see, so I will have some poured.

We sit, and the Dirty Old Cheat makes his points. I acknowledge each with a nod. I know he can count more than two, and he counts much better with cards.

I do not drink my tea. Yet. I watch my companions take their first sips.

I look at the Polite Oni. I indicate myself.  "I am your weapon. There are many like it, but this one is yours. I am your best friend. I am your life. You must master me as you master your life. Without you I am useless. Without me you are useless. You must point me true. You must point me straighter than your enemies point at you..."

"Will you learn me as your Sister, my weakness, my strengths, my parts?"

"Even though I am a woman?"

I raise my hand to forestall interruptions, "I am your Life. I am your Death."

The server is busy elsewhere so I point to their cups, "That tea is sweet, the other bitter, the servant tends you well for she -knows- you are famous troubador. Instead of sweetener, it could be so easily the drops from the little jar she uses to trap her meats. If she thought you were one that would threaten her, if I made her afraid of you instead of happy to see you."

I sip my tea, it is terrible, I smile, "Please, if I am to serve you, you must let me loose."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-15-16/1121:51>

Al looked again at the horrible tea.

Then back up at the Priestess. "Hooo-weee, Nihonjin kemo sabe, that kinda groovy talk, yer openin' doors in ol' Al's mind, baby. I never seen them sorts o' philosophizin' inna Good Book, but sounded pretty good fer a pagan. Don't know 'bout the bossman here, but I got no problem pointin' yer arrow."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-15-16/1313:36>

Confusion had stolen onto Isaint's face for half a second only to be replaced by a knowing smile: "You wouldn't have served in the UCAS Marines... Nevermind.
I see your point about using you as a weapon. But...
You see, I myself follow... you'd say a Kami. I am deeply indebted to him and his teachings have made me what I am. He is quick to erupt in righteous anger and an implacable foe once he was roused to battle. But he is also a protector of the innocent, a friend and a gentleman. To a lesser degree that is also true for me.
My instincts and/or his influence tell me to protect you despite knowing on a conscious level that you are a most capable and deadly opponent yourself.

Even more important, I have accepted leadership of this group. Therefore, you all are my responsibility.
If I let you loose you'd be like a falling knife. If an innocent got hurt it is not the fault of knife but the fault of the wielder.
So if I let you go to do what you do, I need assurance that your actions won't bring the wrath of the houses upon us. And more important: I need to know that you won't harm innocents, or if that isn't an option, at least use the least harmful path."

With a look at the tea that he hadn't touched yet he said: "Oh great. There is a reason I usually live on field rations while on a mission."

To Al he said: "Style is one thing, but do you really want to drudge back all the way we just came? If need be, I'll stay outside to keep an eye on them so you two can go and chat with the man of the cloth eye to eye."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-15-16/1441:47>

"Style???" For a moment, Al looked deeply hurt and offended. "Ol' Al ain't no pansyboy. Style? There's a whole world o' difference atween style an' cool baby..." he looked as if he was going to try to explain himself, but found himself at a rare loss for words so instead appealed to Isaint's everpresent practical side. "Lissen, bossman amigo, it's like ya done pointed out - we got them things with us, ever'one we go ta powwow with, we gotta split ourselves up so someone can babysit the damned electroburros. That ain't no good down here, we's too split up as it is. Remember last time? So they's drones, right? Drooooones. Send 'em back on they own. Losin' a few musical doodads makes ya nervous, send Arturo with 'em an' it can come meet us later. Hell, that one's a bit off-puttin' too, fer my money."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-15-16/1631:30>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #36

I explain carefully, "Please, we may not want to show our hand so early. Having the instruments with us now may create an impression and association we may wish concealed later."

The Dirty Old Cheat knows about hiding what's in the hole.

I pause to gather attention, I look the Polite Oni in the eyes, "You have been set a great task by an Old Wise One, an Avatar of Omoikane. Tasks given in such a way must be done properly or the Old Wise One will not be appeased. It is your task, not mine. Perhaps the lesson in this is in learning how to accomplish a task that goes against your nature."

I raise my hand and show both sides of my unmarred skin, my hand that I pierced with my own blade "Have I not shed my own blood to your principles already?"

I clap my hands together to center their attention, "I accept your conditions, will you accept mine?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-15-16/1721:01>

Isaint sighed. He nodded to Karasu and Al: "Done and done. I'll send Arthur along with the drones in full riot mode. Let no-one say I can't be reasoned with."
A quick message to Jackhammer made sure he would let the drones in, than he gave his drone its commands: <<Arthur, Guardian Protocol 2, flexible threat response, shotgun riot mode.>>
Immediately the drone retrieved the shotgun from its backpack and changed the magazine. The camo cloak around it activated and turned the drone into a wraith. Flanked by the two mules the drone in its full body armor went away.
Isaint kept a life feed open, to keep an eye on his trusty drone.

#430

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-15-16/2129:21>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #37

I nod in gratitude, "Arigato."

"Now, let us speak of the Holies and how to approach them, and our overall plan."

I continue, "We are to arrange the pieces such that all will attend an event where none but ourselves will know the true intent till it is revealed, well afterwards or soon afterwards."

I rub my hands in glee, "Each should have their own reason for attending. Each should not have a reason that conflicts with any of the others should it be revealed. For now we believe attendance at the event is all that is required, for they will all witness. Then afterwards we will inform them of what they witnessed! The Illusion pierced and made real!"

I stop giggling.

"So what will bring these Holies out, and how do we approach them? Are you already known to them?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-16-16/0324:19>

"I hope not, I at least  haven't tangled with them before. The bane has been lifted, so technically we shouldn't be in any trouble with them.

Honesty usually is the best approach: We want to hold a concert in the cathedral and we want one of them to marry two young people during the concert. We won't disclose the names unless we come to an understanding.

At least that's how I'd approach it. But be my guest if you know a better solution, that won't get us in trouble with the Holies."
Isaint reclined a bit, correcting the focus of his Fresnel fabric coat, so he could keep contact with Arthur.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-16-16/0505:16>

"Amen ta that, bossman. Amen ta that. Honesty surely is the best policy. Hell, my Pa useta always say, 'Ya always tell the truth, Al, then ya never gotta recollect what ya done said.' But that don't mean ya gotta show all yer cards afore the other feller antes up. Now I appreciate y'all wants ta git some shit done on this thing, but ol' Al still gits a mite fidgety thinkin' o' chargin' ahead with all these fine arrangements without first knowin' the minds o' the, er," and he looked as if he'd just bitten into a lemon, "brides ta be. Not jist cuz they may have they own arrangements they's set on, but because they might be able ta let us know who amongst these here heathen holies is friend or foe. So if we gotta flap jaws with these fellers without waitin', I say we at least take it a step at a time - tell 'em we wanna do a weddin' with a show, but not divulge who its for jist yet."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-16-16/1809:01>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #38

I smile at the Dirty Old Cheat, then I make my suggestion, "We need to learn more about these Holies and the Rites and Ceremonies without revealing our hand. We seek knowledge for our dear friend who is a resident of the Below, who wishes to marry her long lost love. As a member of a House she requires an understanding of the Rites, Ceremony and permissions. And who else can advise except the Holies, neh?"

Love is Blind.

"It is the truth after all."

I smile widely.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-17-16/0326:07>

"Ha ha. I like it. We'll make an honest man out of you yet, Al. And if you are good, we won't tell Robyn about it  - or Iris for that matter.
But we better keep it vague like this. It is in any case a good way to get to the required information.
And don't worry Al, as I said before: This is only the first location where we inquire about a concert and a wedding. The lovebirds will have their say. But beggers can't be choosers and after all it's us who have to do the work, so two or three options should be enough for them."
Isaint smiled malicious.

#432

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-18-16/1810:50>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #39

We wander Below, seeking the Courts of the Holy. It is simple, their crosses are everywhere, and they seek supplicants. There are arrows pointing the way to their place of worship. Stone carved from decayed remnants of the city. The Dirty Old Cheat is quiet, no doubt considering what we have said to him.

On the way there I seek to learn more of these Houses, wayward clans formed for mutual protection, like the Bakuto.

"What do you know of these Houses and how they work?"

We are making our way to Earl's Court Cathedral, the place that is the heart of Below. If the Polite Oni and The Dirty Old Cheat have no answers it may be worth asking some of the people there about the House of Flowers, and The Iron Company. And the other Powers here.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-19-16/0020:43>

Robyn and Iris approach a good spot to observe the fortress that is the house of the Iron Company and sit.  They both have the picture of the girl on their internal 'links and hope to spot her if she leaves the building.  Time passes and the guards at the entrance change once before Tamsyn leaves in the company of fifteen others of the training company.  They are in formation and it would be impossible to get closer without setting off all sorts of personal alarms, so Robyn and Iris just watch.  The small group is led by a corporal of the Company, who keeps his charges in formation and calls out the march cadence.  Robyn does not do anything at this point except watch.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-19-16/0242:47>

Isaint answered:
"I'm by no means an expert on those things, but the houses appear to work pretty much like the rich families of Italy during the Renaissance. All in all, Below is like a city state. They have a ruling house, alliances and plots to undermine each other's influence. Unlike gangs they aren't explicitly interested in destroying one-another. With their specialties they are filling niches in regard to governance and services in this underground economy.
They all have to maintain an aura of strength or the other houses pounce and move against them.
The Old One seems to be part of the current "primus inter pares" house and doesn't want the other houses gaining power at the expense of the Flowers - probably because that would give them enough power to topple his house from the prime spot. At least that's my current hypotheses.

Now, how they work: They have foot soldiers and champions. There seem to have evolved rituals to deal with conflicts - although that doesn't stop them from sending knives in the night.
The Flowers like to use drugs or mind magic to soften up their targets before they strike - that much I've learned by empiric study. What I heard about the Iron Company tells me that they are more of a disciplined fighting force. I'd imagine they employ small unit tactics and other highly coordinated attacks.
But all will try to trip you up with their unwritten laws so they have an excuse for violating what passes for public peace down here."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <08-22-16/0148:09>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #40

We make our way to Earl's Court, past the displays of power. The Polite Oni speaks of tactics which are revealing of the nature of the Houses. I must also learn what the people who are not of the Houses think.

I approach a functionary of the Courts of the Holy. She is a minor functionary. She lectures us. Poorly. I listen and lead her through all the steps of the ceremonies. The six months before there is an opening in the chapel. 3 months for a Holy one to be available to educate the Dirty Old Cheat in the ways of the Court. He will need more than 3 months training I am sure. She tells us of the posting of Banns.

I give up when she starts speaking of the special hats the Holies can wear depending on the station of the participants. The Dirty Old Cheat will merit hatless Holies. I get us free of the Holies clutches. We have learned enough.

As we break clear I give my opinion to my companions, "We have much work to do. It will take many favors or a lot money, or a lot fun."

I clear up the confusion. "Blackmail, extortion, confidence games."

I laugh, "This will be fun!... though Priests are often too easy as targets."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-23-16/0346:05>

Isaint had always considered himself as a good christian - despite his chosen profession. But dealing with the Holies was more akin to a visit at the dentist that sorely tempted him to indulge in the deathly sin of wrath. But he kept his mouth shut and let Yukika deal with it as he had promised.
At least the drones had arrived safely at Robyn's home. Small mercies.

When they were in private again, he listened to her and nodded: "You may be right, but don't forget this is a major player down here - if we don't get this right the first time, there probably won't be a second chance."

#434

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <08-24-16/1232:54>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London]

With the Holies being rather uncooperative you are rather hoping that the girls are having more success…and indeed their chance to make an approach comes quickly enough as Tamsyn and one of her compatriots are clearly singled out for following point duty on whatever training exercise they are undertaking…it wouldn’t take much to use a drone or similar discrete method to make an approach…

***

#52

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <08-25-16/0144:03>

Robyn and Iris watch as the two Iron Company cadets walk separately from the rest.  Robyn sends two of her spy drones winging after the pair, landing them on Tamsyn's clothing.  She directs one to burrow into the collar of the coat and go silent as it watches to the front.  The other she sends to the shoulder, close to the Ork girl's ear.  This one is one of the Noizquitos and is equipped with a small but powerful speaker.  The two soldiers are separated by a few feet and Robyn commands her drone to use a very, very low power on the speaker and cranks it up a tiny bit at a time until the girl can hear it and sends a message to her.  >>Tamsyn.  I am a friend.  I am trying to help you make your dream of being with the woman you love a reality.  If you are willing to talk to me, just nod your head twice.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <08-30-16/0125:45>

As they moved through the streets and Isaint discussed strategy with Yukika, Al stayed quiet and watched the crowds...and their six.

The people they'd just met with had called themselves Christians, but it had sounded like they were slaves to hollow ritual to him. Hell, there hadn't been a snake in sight. He didn't know what to make of their so-called religion but he knew he didn't trust them. He also knew that even though they'd been told there was currently no longer any hit out on them down here, now that they'd taken the meeting they'd upped their exposure a notch, and he was keeping a close eye out for tails.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <08-30-16/0246:27>

"Alright, now that we know about this lot, it's time to shop for another offer. The holies can't be the only ones with access to holy places. Maybe the House of Musicians would be more open to us hosting a concert at one of their sacred sites."
Isaint didn't feel to enthusiastic about this suggestion, but he had promised that they would look for alternatives, so the lovebirds would have a modicum of choice. Not to mention that he suspected the Holies might make more problems if they knew of the nature of bride and bride.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <09-05-16/0805:14>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London]

At the whispering in her ear Tamsyn smiles, but doesn’t break stride or do anything to alert her companion to the new arrival… subvocalizing she says

“He said he would do it, I just wasn’t sure if he could…can you meet me in the Gardens of Dis this evening?  It’s near Earl’s Court…”

***

#53

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-05-16/1452:50>

Robyn whispers back, >>I know it well.  I will be there.  What time?  And do you wish to meet alone?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <09-06-16/2256:21>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #41

The Night Symphony might work on a practical level, but adding another House would be far more challenging. Almost impossible.

Yet there are possibilities.

"The musicians will know how to engage a venue, neh? Also the performance of the ceremonies."

I look to my companions. "Better we not ask all our questions in one House."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <09-07-16/0832:40>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London]

"I won't be alone, I am not that naïve!  Meet me at twenty one hundred or thereabouts, I take it you know what I look like?  I don't want to say more now, my Sergeant will be calling us in a moment..."

***

#54

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-07-16/1102:20>

Robyn sends a quick reply.  >>2100.  Yes, I know what you look like.<<  When she finishes, Robyn directs the drones to fly back to her.  She turns to Iris.  "Alright, one down.  The meet is at the Gardens of Dis at 2100.  I will report in and see if we want to try for girl number two."

She sends a quick note to the others.  >>Team.  Robyn.  Made contact with one of the girls.  She wants to meet me at 2100 in the Gardens of Dis.  Do we still try to contact girl number two and how do we want to handle this meeting?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-07-16/1622:10>

Isaint replied as soon as he got the message:
<<Good work. If you can manage, do try to make contact, but I suspect that the company girl will be able to tell us how she is contacting her lover.
For the meeting I suggest a split: One half in the open, the others in reserve to watch our backs.
Robyn, since you made contact you are in group one. Al and Mrs. Karasu you'll probably want to ask about the procedures directly. And I'm personally just curious.
Our heavy hitters stay in cover and ensure we get out of this meet in one piece.
Are you all ok with that?

... Great.>>

#436

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <09-07-16/2320:15>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #42

This is a different kind of battle. And The Polite Oni confuses me.

<<Sorry. I am uncertain of my group. It may work best if I speak with this woman alone? Or at least it should appear I am alone.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-08-16/0210:06>

Robyn responds to the messages that are going about.  >>I think that you and Al will be in the group I and Iris are part of.  Or perhaps Iris should be with the other group?  She has been in the Garden before as have I and could help you navigate it if things start to go sideways.  The name "Garden" is not really accurate and it can put the wrong picture in front of your eyes.  This place is serious trouble, especially at night, and I am bothered that a young girl would choose such a place for a rendezvous.  Of any bloody kind, much less as a place to meet those who want to help her.  I see it is a sort of test, perhaps.  She will not be alone, but I do not know who she trusts enough to bring with her.<<

>>Anyway, this garden is beautiful by day but much different at night.  What resides there can kill the unwary, taking them somewhere no one will ever find.........................drek, I wonder...............Iris, talk to me later about this, please?  As I was saying, it is not entirely clear what the real danger is, but some of those who have escaped its clutches have emerged mad and have not lived long afterwards.  Others have come out unscathed and no one knows the reason why some are killed, others haunted unto madness, and others not affected.  The rumors are legion and run the gamut of other-planar creatures to vampires nesting there to the actual plants affecting people.  Some of the House of Flowers swear that they get their best stuff in the Garden, but other just think that they are lying.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-08-16/0234:06>

<<As I wrote: Two teams: #1 in the open for the meet. Sorry, Priestess, no can do. You going alone - even with the rest of the team as back up is asking for trouble.
For the moment I'd like to keep Iris in reserve - she is a known figure down here, which can be good or bad depending on who you ask. And therefore we should ask the girl before we introduce ourselves in full.
So as I said: #1 comprised of Robyn, Mrs. Karasu, Al and me. Our two other full mages and Jackhammer with his bow + Arthur stay in the shadows as team #2 to start slinging spells, arrows and suppression fire if things go sideways.

We take this serious and move in formation to avoid ambushes.>>

[spoiler]
It's probably obvious, but just to be clear: This decision is entirely driven by the meta perspective of having the currently active players in one group, so we can in fact interact with each other  ;D

[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-08-16/0742:07>

Robyn's recap of the garden matched everything Al had read about it and pretty much served to confirm his existing opinions about this whole Moleperson Metropolis. What kind of soul would choose to live in a place like this? he idly wondered to himself. Only the damned, he concluded. And there was no worse demon than a demon by choice.

He looked around himself at the passersby on the narrow avenue they walked along. Demons all. Every one of them. Everywhere demons. All pent in close by the walls, the ceiling - some areas were more spacious than others, but the walls were never, could never be more than a stone's throw away. Pressing in. Confining. Restraining. Trapping.

Suffocating.

Whatever. He was no more than a tourist here, and a reluctant one at that.

"So what're we doin' till twenny-one-hunnerd?" he asked.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-08-16/0951:00>

"Knock on a few more doors if you all are up for it. Since we do plan a concert a visit to the Night Symphony is at the very least the polite thing to do. Wouldn't you agree?"

Isaint rolled his shoulders to get a king out. He was still worried about the priests. As it stood they'd need quite a bit of surveillance before they found the piece of leverage they needed to speed up the processes of the funny hat wearing fraction.

#438

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-08-16/0957:13>

Robyn considers the options and decides to take Iris' advice and not go looking for the other girl.  >>What would you like Iris and me to do between now and 2100?  If nothing, I could return home and check on my equipment, but I am certainly open to suggestions.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <09-11-16/0025:22>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere Below, London] #43

We go to prepare the ground. We need more information. Much more. For now we simply take a few steps. The Houses are Powers we must set on a path from which they cannot change once the Ceremony is complete. I will have to find some people here who know more. I will have to owe another favor, but it must be done.

"I suggest we take steps to identify and find people who live here and get information from them. We can start with the obvious people in these streets and work our way to people who know more of the true powers in each house. This will all take time. I have know people who may interact with the Houses from Above as well. There may be an avenue there."

Though I don't think Ben will be happy with what happened at his Safe House.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-11-16/0314:23>

"Fine by me, take the lead - you have more contacts down here than me. We'll just have to make sure we are done before we need to prepare for the meeting."
Isaint nodded at the priestess and let her choose the direction.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <09-11-16/1149:31>

So Deckard was left behind, in Robyn's house. For a thrill seeker like him, that was not the most exciting task. The Astral world was a place on wonder and he certainly never minded spending time there but looking for one person, with only a name and a picture, in an underworld place such as Below was technically looking for a needle in a haystack. Nevertheless, it was the task he was assigned and he'd do his best to accomplish it.

He made himself comfortable, and as he closed his eyes he felt his aura leave his body. Under the care of Jackhammer, Deckard had little to fear for the security of his body, while gone in the Astral world.

The first thing that was obvious: it was the first time Deckard had felt oppressed while Astrally projecting. For a simple reason too, the 'roof'' of Below was sometime part of the Earth itself, and impossible to cross through. In other word, he had no way to actually 'reach' the surface. This was going to make his little exploration a bit more hazardous.

'Outside' - if one could call it so - was vibrant of life, but twisted by strong emotions. Fear, paranoia, despair, the lot of those poor souls who came down Below because repression, poverty, diseases, racial bias. But he could recognize in some dwellers a sense of pride and hope.  Some auras were very unfamiliar, metatypes he had never encounter.

...to be continued
He continued at a slow pace, in the astral sense of it, and made his way toward the Houses. House Laese and the Earl court were his first interest since his best chance to find one of the bride to be... the fact that her name was very similar to the one of his wife kind of pushed the decision to look after her too. But also that he had no quarrel with anyone of the house yet. He was going to be careful though, he had heard enough crazy stories about the Laese, his first intention was to simply take a 'casual look' and map out the location  of any potential wards and Magical security the House had.   

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <09-22-16/0923:34>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]
 
Whilst you can never be quite sure what to expect down here the Gardens take that to a new level of weird.  The whole place is like stepping in to a drawing by Escher…at once cavernous and claustrophobic with distorted perspectives that make looking at any one thing for long cause a nagging headache at the back of your eyes!
 
Just before the time of your rendezvous and it seems to be dusk, with two artificial suns dipping towards what passes for a horizon and the lamp lighters guild beginning their rounds of the area to ensure a fitful glow illuminates the scene.  With the passing of the suns the plants here, a heady mixture of tropical vines and over ripe fruit trees, begin to close in on themselves, to be overtaken by a range of bioluminescent vegetation that claims the night.  Wisps dart through the vegetation, a couple springing up at you, chittering in an angry fashion before whisking away…
 
***
 
When Tamsyn finally appears she has two other girls with her of about her age.  In keeping with their House’s justified reputation for warfare and shrewd dealings they look to be equipped to fight a small scale border war, with high spec armour, los comm units and vicious looking matte black submachine guns…
 
***
 
#55

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-22-16/0943:37>

After an interesting but ultimately inconclusive visit to the Night Symphony, the team had found back together to prepare for the outing in the park. As agreed the team split up to better be able to deal with surprises, attacks and surprise attacks.

Isaint had delegated Arthur to the back up team and left his rifle folded inside his back pack. Since this was supposed to be a friendly meeting, he left off the faces mask and helmet, stashed also in his back pack and his belt. Considering that the Warrior House would appreciate disciplined appearance, he again sent AROs to his teammates to direct them into a semblance of a secure marching order.  That left Robyn at the front, flanked to the left and right with Al and Karasu, while he brought up the rear.

When they came face to face with the girl he nodded at her: "Greetings. Have you already taken measures to keep this conversation private, or should we scour the surroundings before we begin?"

#340

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-22-16/0948:08>

Robyn lets ISaint take the lead in the conversation opener.  It would make sense that a warrior might be better suited to talking with another warrior, but she is prepared to step in and help if needed.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-22-16/1407:33>

Al took a hard look at the she-ork and then at her two girlfriends. Just enough to be able to recognize them again.

Then he directed all his attention to their perimeter. High, low, backwards and zig zag.

He had about as much interest in this conversation as a polecat had in eating grits. On the other hand, he was deeply invested in him and his not getting bushwhacked by another suicidal band of underdweller freaks. His internal air was on a hair-trigger; he was tempted to be on it even now, but it played hell with his smoking. Less interested in friendly appearances than their fearless Teutonic leader, his shotgun was in his hand. Hell, the lesbians were packing.

They'd checked the area out pretty damned well. And it was some comfort to know that Jackhammer, Rick, and Iris - and yeah, the damned robot - were out there ready to rain hell on anyone that fucked with them. But in this place if cannibalistic hippies had leaped out of the night blossoms wreathed in clouds of toxic ganja blow he wouldn't have blinked.

So he kept his fake eyes peeled, looking for anything out of the ordinary - or at least anything out of the out of the ordinary that passed for ordinary down here.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <09-22-16/2200:30>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London] #44

We wander through the Below, visiting and talking with the natives. I mark those who may serve me later. Today we are making the first steps in the long dance.

Finally the Polite Oni leads us to the Gardens of Dis. Interesting, I would speak with the Kami here. Later. The target approaches. The Polite Oni speaks, the Dirty Old Cheat looks elsewhere, and the Unclean Hound Mistress looks at nothing as usual.

Interesting opening from The Polite Oni. I await the response. Perhaps they have different protocols here for meetings between distrustful violence prone people. He has chosen to lead, and it would be incredibly harmful for me to challenge his leadership. It would be poor form for me to act now, especially after my offer is already declined. Let us see how this goes.

I observe.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <09-26-16/1239:23>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]

Tamsyn smiled grimly at Isaint

“I think that you will find that any measures, either magical or technological, designed to overcome eavesdropping are likely to draw the denizens of this place like the veritable moths to the flame.  Let us be brief, this is a dangerous place and will become increasingly so…it is why I chose it, both to test your resolve and because it will, by itself, limit those we do not want to overhear by chance.

Your contact said you had a way to organise our dream…?”

Meanwhile Al, some distance away, can feel the hairs on the back of his unwashed neck stand on end as the atmosphere noticeably changed…there’s no breeze, but he could swear the trees were moving more than they should be…

***

#56

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-26-16/1617:00>

"We are indeed here to get you and your friend together as a repayment of favors. If I may introduce us: This is Robyn, Mrs. Karasu and Al. I'm called Isaint. At your service.
But to help you we need a few pieces of information:
How can we discreetly get into contact with both of you?

We are in the process of setting up the ceremony, disguised within a concert so it can be witnessed as needed without undue danger. Do you have a preference on which holy ground and which official you want for this?"

Isaint glanced at Al, but turned his attention back to the girl: "And since I am entirely uneducated in the rites of below, I'll have to defer to Mrs. Karasu here."
Isaint indicated towards the priestess and took a step back, scanning the surrounding darkness, while he loosened his coat.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-26-16/1750:59>

Al casually slung his shotgun, as if put at ease by the she-ork's civil response. But he spoke almost inaudibly into his lapel-mic: <<Eyes onna trees, folks. They ain't right. Team Satanists: y'all got a read onna arboreal astral?>>

Watching the suspect foliage with one eye, he continued scanning the shadows - even down here, he didn't reckon the Good Lord's creations went amok without a healthy dose of metahuman in the mix - there was sure to be a devil-worshipping hippy getting read to commit suicide-by-Al around here somewhere....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <09-26-16/2209:16>

Deckard was watching from afar as the quartet approached the Ork warrior and her protection. The whole place was giving him the chill. The only reinsurring thing was the presence of Jackhammer and ISaint's drone nearby, but neither did seem programmed for conversation. Even small talk would have been pleasing.

He was thus concentrating on his task, overwatch, going over each means he had available - whether it was his thermographic vision through his goggles, or the constant switch to Astral sight to look for magical activity around them. He had more in his sleeves and had activated his Life Detection spell to attempt to detect anyone who entered their vicinity.

Satanists Team Leader to Chosen One, I have all three eyes on it, keeping you posted. 

[spoiler]
Detect Life, Extended F4 - Sustained (http://orokos.com/roll/439811): 18d6t5 5 380m radius around Deckard
Perception Visual (6 Skill + 10 INT + 3 Visual Enhancement - 2 sustained spell) (http://orokos.com/roll/439812): 17d6t5 9 Limit to 7
Astral Perception (6 Skill + 10 INT - 2 sustained spell) (http://orokos.com/roll/439813): 14d6t5 9 Limit to 7
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <09-26-16/2257:33>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London] #46

Hahahahahaha! A well played trap! There is no end to the suffering I will inflict on him. He will beg to be flayed and his blood used to grow my Gardens.

I smile and step forward. I bow.

I will let the Polite Oni do what he is good at. Soon I expect this garden to be filled with a rain of lead if I am reading the signs correctly.

I must be rude now.

"Sorry, I will be direct. The Old One supports your Dream and has sent us to ensure that your Houses are joined. No doubt it is the Body Politic and not your love that the Old One is most concerned with, but you can benefit from this. I will need everything you know about the Powers in your House and in those in the House of your beloved. Armed with these levers I will move your World."

I did not even bow. This is so crude.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-27-16/0252:21>

Taking the cue from Al, Isaint focused on the indicated area, going even so far to use his hyper concentration ability to tune out all distracting factors.
Slowly, so he wouldn't trigger the bodyguards, he took out his folded rifle and gave the mental command to deploy itself.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-27-16/0925:12>

Robyn has never spent much time in the Gardens.  An initial clue about Cali had led here and so she had followed it up, but that had not panned out any more than any other clue.  She has heard some of the stories about the place, though, and so is wary.  Her sensors are tuned in to the area and she is monitoring the feeds from the two tiny drones she had deployed about; one on the periphery and the other on her shoulder.   Al's warning is timely and she keeps monitoring her untrasound sensor for any changes or movements.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <09-27-16/1129:56>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]
 
Everyone can feel the change in atmosphere now and the vegetation is visibly responding to a presence…on the astral the figure approaching you glows like an acetylene torch and the trees almost seem to be bowing to her…Deckard’s spell is alight with life, and it seems to be converging on you…the wisps that were merely curious before are beginning to spin together in a complex weave of light…
 
“Ethereal…” Tamsyn whispered, “We must be quick, she will not like us being here at this hour… I will send my nurse out during the day, Ama, you will recognise her I’m sure.  Give her any message you would pass on to me, I trust her implicitly.  I have no preference for a site but if this is to work and be ratified by our Houses then the Flowers have always been married on Lyonesse…I’m not sure how that will work with your concert, perhaps as a distraction while we are away?
 
We do not have time now to list all those powers you seek, there are too many factions, too many people…we will talk again I’m sure…talk to Ama, she will find a way for us to meet again…”
 
The figure that emerges from the trees is almost a disappointment…an elf, tall even for her kind, dressed in a hooded cloak that hides her eyes and apparently very little else from the flash of her lean legs as she walks…tattoos of flowering vines cover much of her exposed flesh.  Her voice when she speaks seems to bypass your ears and go straight to your erogenous zones
 
“What do you do here?  You disturb my peace…”
 
***
 
#57

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-27-16/1316:56>

"Minding our own goddamn business." Isaint nodded towards the three Company girls and made a gesture to his own team to disengage.
"Which, if more people would do it, would drastically decrease the amount of violence in this world."
Dramatically appropriate at this moment the barrel of his rifle set itself in position with a satisfying "click".

#443

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-27-16/1859:31>

Sure enough. Just like in the Good Book. Seek a devil-worshipping hippy and ye shall find a devil-worshipping hippy. Dammit all to hell. Al figured his erogenous zones had enough to worry about with Alyce back in the picture without some half-naked pagan plant priestess playing paranormal piper on his privates.

Taking Isaint's signal, he started moving off, keeping a wary eye out for any uppity tree people. He knew Isaint would insist on being last off the field, and it would just be a waste of time arguing, so he took the lead on their exfil from the park.

On his back, Rex had been restless from the get-go, and now Hannibal was getting antsy too.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-28-16/0121:56>

Robyn's sensors are not able to pick up everything happening and that make her curious.  Her drones pick up the presence of the woman and identify her as Elven, and the ink on her body would seem to indicate that she is of the House of Flowers.  She strides confidently in this place, which says much for her power and possible abilities.  That she has not already attacked Al, Jackhammer, or ISaint says something to her as well.  Robyn bows and steps forward to address the woman.  "We mean you no harm or disrespect and I am sorry if we have disturbed your peace.  We came here to speak to others of matters that cannot be said openly.  Would you give us leave to remain and do that or would you prefer we left?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-28-16/0553:41>

Al was two steps away when he realized Alyce had stayed to chat.

Joseph and Mary and all the animals in the manger, was he going to have to jump on another grenade?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <09-29-16/2055:53>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London] #47

They do say men are afraid of forming relationships. Look at those two prepare to run. The Unclean Hound Mistress at least makes the proper offering.

I will not run. Not all battles involve exchanges of lead.

I make obeisance.

Staring at the ground between us I speak.

"Please, I am Mistress of the Cinnamon Pavilion, Guardian of the Everflowing Fountains, Iron Servant of the Green Throne, and to some The Flying Knife."

I hold my obeisance.

"How may I serve you?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-30-16/0053:12>

Robyn pauses as Yukika introduces herself, waiting an appropriate few seconds to add, "I am called Robyn Masters by some and Alyce Krait by others.  In this place I am a servant of the First House and mean you no harm or disrespect."  She has the aerial drone focus its sensor over to where Tamsyn is standing with her companions and wonders that the girl has not left yet.  She cannot leave without knowing the Ork is safely away and is wondering if the girl had expected something like this.  Robyn has no intention of blurting out anything about the wedding at this juncture, but is interested in what is happening here.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-30-16/0257:17>

Women.

Well, if they could make something good happen, then power to 'em.

Alyce's face tat might score them some mileage.

But dealing with some sort of Flowers witch?

Near as he could tell, rules of this place only mattered when they were convenient.

Al had his doubts, and kept his attention on the trees.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-30-16/0424:37>

Isaint scowled behind his mask. Every second they spoke with those guys was a second they could use to construct an excuse to be offended - or to claim one of their number as collateral/slave or whatever.
<<Get your respirators and gasmasks on. Those guys love their airborn drugs.
AND STOP ENGAGING THEM. This is the enemy - they are the ones we need to keep this whole thing secret against.
Last time these guys tried to dominate one of our principals and got all pissy when we objected and reclaimed her.>>
<<Arthur, load Smartsoft, prepare Riotmode.>>
<<Susi, Full Defense, Jammers on Full, Cluster scan for MARKs>>

In the meat world he had merely readied his weapon and kept an eye on the surroundings.

#444

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-30-16/0657:11>

The bossman was right. Time to stop smoking.

But Al left the cigarette in his mouth, just stopped inhaling as he switched to his internal air supply.

And he kept his hands empty - if these trees went off he'd want his mitts free more than he'd want his Remington in them.

On his back the dogs were growling quietly, but outwardly his face was calm as he zipped his brown bomber jacket tight against the growing chill.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <09-30-16/1027:05>

>>That is not how things are done down here.  There is a potential for gaining help for our cause.  Do you see Tamsyn or her companions leaving?  No.  It is my guess that they expected her to show up.  I do not think that we can leave them behind.  She has asked us a question and we should answer her.  We can be prepared for something bad to happen, but why assume that it will?  Besides there is a reason she is here in the Gardens and not living in the House.  Perhaps she will be friendly.<<

Robyn looks at the woman, noting the ink and smiling as she feels the hydra moving on her face and back.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-30-16/1056:03>

Wincing and wondering why women were even allowed to work, Al hissed into his mic: <<Woman, yer pretty words ain't no count if'n ya don't listen first. Din't ya hear ork-dyke? Play 'er back if ya gotta. She sure warn't lookin' fer this witch ta be here, nor does she 'spect she's a friend. Time ta didi mau.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <09-30-16/1228:45>

"It is not me you need to worry about child...this concentration of power...it is them you need to fear...the Nephilim, the Fallen God Children..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <09-30-16/1332:39>

As the horde of demons swarmed down on them, Al mocked, "Perhaps she will be friendly," in the best girlie voice his tobacco-ravaged vocal chords could muster.

A non-corporeal set of brass knuckles appeared on his scarred right hand.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <09-30-16/1641:33>

[spoiler]
Street Knowledge: London Below (http://orokos.com/roll/441301): 8d6t5 2

Ini (http://orokos.com/roll/441303): 16+4d6 23[4d6=1, 2, 1, 3]
This isn't going well.

Simple Action: Activate Weapon Focus
Simple Action: Attribute Boost AGI Attribute Boost AGI (http://orokos.com/roll/441305): 8d6t5 2

[/spoiler]

'Nephilim... Fuck.' There was a lot to learn about Below and much that Isaint didn't know, but the Nephilim... yeah, he had heard about them.

"RICK, MANABARRIER NOW. EVERYONE FALL BACK,  REGROUP, DEFENSIVE CIRCLE, EXECUTE"

While he called out the command, he opened the conduit to his cestus and let the mana flow into his weapon focus, wreathing it in cold, blue-white fire. 'St. George, give me strength'

His Theme Music program decided that this would be the perfect moment to start a new track to pump him up: "Hell to pay" (https://youtu.be/kjIVkl34Vig?t=26)

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-01-16/1421:43>

Robyn pulls back to join ISaint, tugging on Yukika's gown as she slips the whip from her hand and signals Al2 to a guard position.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <10-01-16/1544:36>

Deckard was too focus on assessing the tattooed elf. He realized too late those wisps of light were materialization of a much more evil threat.

He touched the silver coin securely tucked in his pocket, and ran toward the group while calling on his most powerful magic so he could include everyone in his protective spell

ISaint shouted his order.

I'm on it already,  referring to the Mana Barrier he was casting. For what my opinion is worth, I'd say retreat is a viable option. I don't know how long I'll be able to hold them off!

[Spoiler]Mana Barrier F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/441731): 22d6t5 6
Mana Barrier Drain DV5 (http://orokos.com/roll/441732): 15d6t5 7
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-01-16/1612:58>

[spoiler]
Arthur Ini (http://orokos.com/roll/441739): 10+4d6 22
Arthur starts shooting suppressive fire (Flechette)
Suppressive Fire (http://orokos.com/roll/441737): 12d6t5 4 [12d6t5=3, 5, 2, 2, 2, 4, 1, 4, 6, 5, 3, 6]
-4 to the Spirits' actions

Isaint Ini 13
Complex Action: Small Unit tactics: Bounding Overwatch
Small Unit Tactics (http://orokos.com/roll/441735): 15d6t5 8 [15d6t5=6, 6, 6, 2, 5, 1, 5, 1, 5, 4, 6, 3, 2, 4, 6]
Limited to 6, but enough:
Successes required: 4
Description: This is the classic leapfrog maneuver used when a unit must move while under fire. This can be used as both an offensive or defensive maneuver. It involves one combatant providing cover or suppressive fire to pin down enemy combatants from a protected position (see p. 179, SR5) as other members of her team move to another position. This process is repeated, with team members alternating roles, until either the objective is achieved or the team is clear of the engagement area. Note that locating sufficient cover is recommended while attempting this maneuver, but is not necessary. Benefits: If suppression fire is successful, the moving elements of the team/unit receive a +3 bonus to defensive actions while any enemy combatants receive a –3 penalty for any offensive actions.

Free action: (Nimble Fingers) load rifle
Free action: (Nimble Fingers) ready rifle


So, in total the spirits have a total of -7 to attack us or the barrier

[/spoiler]

While the mage sprinted toward them, Arthur began to deploy the Riot Protocol: With precise burst of fully automatic fire he began to create a zone filled with flechette needles: Those might not hurt the spirits much, but they were guaranteed to distract and impede them.

"Acknowledged. ORDERED RETREAT, Bounding Overwatch, Arthur execute.
FORMATION, everyone."
Isaint created AR markers as fast as his mind could manage, showing every member of the team their necessary place.
"Al on point with me, Robyn, Karasu around Rick, Jackhammer, Iris secure our flanks. MOVE!"
 
Isaint felt the astral barrier slide over him, forcing him to extinguish his focus again. He had his rifle in hand now and with nimble fingers inserted a magazine from his pouch - hand loaded APDS ammo with tungsten carbide tips for ultimate penetration - just below depleted uranium in effectiveness.
The drone obediently kept up the fire, enabling the team to move steadily away from the materializing spirits.

#446

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-01-16/1650:14>

Al took his position in front with Isaint. He'd fought alongside the ork-of-many-faces in some of the worst scraps of his life, and he knew the guy had serious tactical skills.

He'd also seen the guy take out some big-ass spirits with his rifle (hadn't saved his house!), and his hat was off to him for that as well. Al had been fighting demons since he was fourteen, and he'd never seen lead-throwers do a lick of good. He'd always relied on his hands for this sort of work, and with Rick's satan-barrier in place, these devils would have to go around or through it to ensorcel them - and he'd be ready when they did.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-01-16/1713:16>

Robyn's sensors allow her to fall into place seamlessly.  She is careful to keep the whip from entangling any of her companions and keeps Al2 at her other side as she watches for a threat to appear.  She is already planning on where to position herself to best effect.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: DireRadiant on <10-02-16/1841:10>

[Yukika Karasu - Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London] #48

Ah, Kami of this place. Interesting. I would like to study them.

Some other time.

We gather ourselves together to act.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <10-03-16/1232:54>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]

As you contract around the Iron Company girls in the wake of the sudden appearance of the Nephilim you immediately feel a lessoning of tension as Deckard’s mana barrier cuts across the almost imperceptible atmosphere that you hadn’t even been aware was there until it was gone…the disturbing perspectives of the place don’t change, that appears to be a feature of the garden…

The harsh cry from Jackhammer over the comms of “Get out of my head” followed by his digital signature disappearing off in to the distance only serves to highlight the benefits of keeping these things out, whatever they might be…the silence from Iris is also ominous, particularly as she has only just made it back to the group…

Arthurs hail of flechettes is met with a disturbing and chilling laugh as the circling spirits simply phase out of the material plane…at least they aren’t attacking at the moment…the distance to the exit still feels like a very long way however, and you have a distinct feeling that you won’t get there before they decide to do something more drastic than laugh at you…

The damn things are flitting just beyond practical reach, using either their incorporeality or the twisted trees to shield themselves from you.  It’s consequently even difficult to count how many of them there are…too many is the obvious but rather unhelpful answer…

The woman, Ethereal, addresses the spirits in tones that brook no argument “Be Gone…these are not for you!” but whether it is the mana barrier or your foes’ lack of erogenous zones it seems to do little good for now.  The Iron girls look to Tamsyn for command but she simply nods at Isaint, “follow his lead”

***

#58

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-03-16/1334:54>

Robyn is gratified to learn that the woman marked as the House of Flowers does not appear to be an enemy.  At least she can feel justified in having approached her.  The disappearances of Jackhammer and Iris are quite disturbing, however, especially in light of the apparent requirement that the Ork be involved in the wedding.  Otherwise, she remains calm and ready to defend herself and her team, which seems to have expanded a bit to include another four individuals.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-03-16/1453:00>

Isaint felt a strong assault on his senses just before the barrier swept over him, dampening the feeling and allowing him to overcome the effect through sheer concentration.

"Steady, don't let them into your mind and don't panic. As long as you stay inside the barrier their powers are weak."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-03-16/1459:08>

Robyn feels something that stimulates her intense desire for Al, creating an almost irresistible compulsion.  While she might normally give in to such urges, she realizes that this is not normal and must be some effect of the creatures now surrounding them.  Giving in to these base emotions at this time would risk the lives of her companions and she resists the urge, and focuses on of the drones with her to watch Al closely in case he fails to.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-03-16/1538:16>

"Alright, now come the tricky part. I'm sharing ultrasound data with you. I'm going to cut of their line of sight to us: Be ready for my Thermal smoke grenade"
Isaint used his free hand to pluck a grenade from his pocket, but instead of throwing it, he activated it directly, dropping the can. Immediately he and the team was covered by thick, hot smoke, cutting of their line of sight.
For those with active AR a crude framework traced their surroundings based on Isaint's ultrasound sensor. It didn't deliver much detail, but prevented the team from being blind while they moved on.

"You'll have to move a bit closer if you want to see us, you fuckers."

[spoiler]
Ini 3
Free Action: Switch to Ultrasound
Simple Action: Share Sensor feed
Simple Action: Activate Grenade
Free Action: Drop Grenade
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-03-16/1856:21>

Al had known guys that got wood when the fighting started.

Not that he'd been looking, but hell, they'd brag about it.

None of them were the sort of cats he wanted to spend a lot of time with.

Only now here he was about to bust his button-flies. Just before Isaint popped the smoke he turned and looked at Alyce. Yeah, she had her working kit on, but he couldn't see it. All he could see was her naked form, all on display for him during those endless nights in Andoung Tuek, or in the pictures she'd sent him those nights he'd been sleeping rough out in the jungle.

As the smoke billowed up from the cannister, all he thought was that no one would see him throw her to the ground and sample what he'd denied himself eight years ago...and that reminded him of all the reasons he'd held back, and how all of them went triple now, and he was back on the job.

Loathe to pitch himself into a fit of nausea, he had the bright idea to latch onto her shoulder - he knew she damned well wouldn't be bothered by a little smoke - but under the circumstances figured that'd be pushing his luck good, so he grit his teeth and switched on his image link's AR overlay, letting the ultrasound topography wash over his field of vision even as his last meal threatened to wash up his throat.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-03-16/2100:11>

Robyn's view of the world changes little when ISaint drops his smoke grenade, but she reasons that it will might make it harder for the rest of her team to stay out of her way and she recoils the whip into her hand.  She also knows that Al is suffering so moves closer to him, placing a hand on his shoulder as she draws her DNI cable from the side of her neck.  Al, keep your wireless off and let me be your eyes.  I can link by DNI.  Guide my hand to your port." 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-04-16/0459:44>

Loins still tingling from the hippy demons’ invitation to debauchery, Alyce’s touch was electric.

But he had to shake his head. He could still recall the stench of sweat and whiskey-breath on the camp quack that had slapped his first replacements in after his slight miscalculation with the blasting caps. It had been a no-frills job, and when he’d finally sprung for his fancypants upgrades, he’d declined the external accessorization then as well. “Ol’ Steve Austin din’t need none o’ that, an’ he was a man barely alive. Al sure as hell won’t want fer it,” he’d explained to the upscale sawbones in his swanky downtown Seattle clinic.

Now, shouting to be heard over the racket that damned robot and his scattergun were making, he only said, “Ain’t no port, toots. An’ it ain’t the wireless hits me, it’s the feed, an’ no way ‘round that.” Though he wasn’t inhaling the sizzling microparticles, they left an acrid taste in his mouth when he spoke. It complemented the sour taste of bile building in his throat.

Remembering his manners, he added, “Much obliged though."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-04-16/0952:45>

Alyce lets her DNI cable retract into her neck but does not move from the side of this man firmly entrenched in a different century.  How two such people can be so different and yet so right for each other has been a mystery for her for over eight years and it is not going to be resolved tonight.  If ever, she muses; after all, she does not know if Al has decided to take a chance on her or not.  She reaches into a pocket of her shirt and brings out a small tube, which she presses into Al's hand.  "I came prepared for something like this.  These are to counter your nausea.  Not prescription strength, but they do help.  Take two now and one in an hour if you still need it.  I can still act as your eyes if you want to turn the wireless off."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-04-16/1225:02>

Al disappeared the container into a cargo pocket, where it would swim about amidst a collection of loose armor-piercing shotgun slugs. They were being swarmed by a horde of Nephi-whatsits with diabolical mind control powers. If he could handle that, he reckoned he could handle a few gastric gyrations without becoming a drug-addled flower child.

But what he said was, "Thank ye kindly," as Isaint's ultrasound warned him clear of a marble park bench that had been awaiting his unsuspecting shins.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <10-04-16/1418:09>

Deckard heard Jackhammer in his mic and it tore his heart apart. He knew if he had to come closer to protect the rest of the team the Principle, with his Mana Dome, it would not have been enough to encompass the 'Surveillance team'. He had taken the decision and hoped Jackhammer's legendary resistance and Iris powerful Magic would have had been enough to protect them. He was wrong.

Thermal smoke start filling his line of sight and, now useless, he turned of his Goggles' thermal vision. Not that he could see any better, he switched his perception to Astral. This time he could see the horde of Shadow Spirits roaming tauntingly around them. All they had to do is to come closer while on the astral plane and materialize inside the Mana Barrier that protected him and his companion.

Alright, let's see if that'll stop you. He called upon the Mana energy around him and cast another Barrier, but this time acting on the Astral Plane. That would block them from appearing too close, and delay them for a short time at least. Hopefully enough for the team to get closer to that dreadful garden.

Guys, I'm blocking them on the Astral Plane too, seriously let's get the drek out of here.

The smoke was thick on the physical plane, but he could see clearly the aura of his companions.   

[spoiler]
Astral Mana Barrier F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/442526): 20d6t5 10 Limit to 8
Drain Resistance DV5 (http://orokos.com/roll/442527): 15d6t5 5
[/spoiler]


Yukika, Priestess. You told us you're versed in the art of controlling people's emotion, right? Can you control us back to a 'normal' state if any of these creature get a hold of one of us?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-04-16/1454:52>

Alyce knows when Al puts the tube of pills in his pocket that he will never use them.  Once again she has done the wrong thing.  Still, the physician in her had demanded she make an effort to protect the man she loves, even if he refuses that effort.  She stands near him in case he needs her guidance, but the way he sidesteps the bench tells her that he would rather suffer the nausea than rely on her help.  A bit dispirited, she realizes that she is woefully unprepared for this sort of fight, which is why she had purchased Al2 in the first place.  Even now, the trained hound is keeping pace with her, protecting her from the spirits he can plainly see. 

She sends a message out to the Harlequinade, hoping that they might want to come to the party.  >>Hey.  Robyn Lysander here.  We are being attacked by about a dozen shadow spirits of varying strength.  Would you be interested in coming to the party?  We are in the Gardens.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <10-04-16/1633:04>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]

For those on the material plane it is a blessed relief, however briefly, when the menacing presence of the spirits disappears…for those with a view of the astral those spirits descend on Deckard’s mana barrier like a veritable hurricane…shrieking their rage at being blocked from their prey…

***

#59

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-05-16/0610:50>

Isaint contemplated for a moment if he should take the nuclear option: Packaging three grenades on the ground and have all members run as soon as the spirits start to materialize. Only the fact that Rick would have problems moving fast enough out of the blast radius made him hesitate.

Instead he called on the saint's power again to bolster his resilience and made sure the triple package of grenades was ready if they actually had to use it.

'I won't lose another team mate to a shadow spirit.'

With this thought, the cestus on his hand flared up again with white fire.
When they had exited the smoke, he dropped an AR ready smoke grenade towards their walking path, ready to ignite it. If only they could move faster through this tiny slice of hell.

<<Arthur, follow with 20m distance, ready APDS, narrow choke, Sensor lock on largest, floating target>>

"Steady onwards. Be ready when they materialize: You only have a short moment before they attack you. Make the best of that window. Attack the smaller ones first - we have to reduce their numbers quickly if we want to stand a chance."

[spoiler]
Buffing up before Round 3:
Activating Focus (again)
Handling grenades 2x
Body Boost: Body Boost (http://orokos.com/roll/442724): 8d6t5 3 [8d6t5=4, 5, 6, 4, 4, 5, 4, 2]
AGI Boost: AGI Boost (http://orokos.com/roll/442725): 8d6t5 5 [8d6t5=6, 6, 6, 1, 6, 2, 6, 2] Limited to 4
Commanding Arthur

Ini Round 3:
Ini Round 3 (http://orokos.com/roll/442726): 16+4d6 29

Complex Action: Attack Spirit closest to Isaint with a Karate chop to the vitals
Free Action: Adept Centering
AGI 9 + Skill 7 + Focus 6 - 0 (Called Shot Adept centered)=22
Melee Attack (http://orokos.com/roll/442727): 22d6t5 6[22d6t5=2, 3, 5, 1, 3, 6, 2, 4, 5, 2, 4, 4, 5, 5, 4, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 1, 6]
DV 11 AP Magic + Net hits

[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <10-05-16/0826:56>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]

Despite the warning from Yukika it is still a bit of a shock when your small huddle is suddenly filled with nightmarish spirits…but you are nothing if not professional and Isaint rapidly dispatches the hooded figure with glowing eyes that appeared balefully beside him… Al is not quite so lucky, despite telling himself it clearly isn’t real, when Robyn appears beside him, clad in nothing but her spectacular tattoos, his aim is a little less sure than it might otherwise have been and the spirit twists aside from his blow…

***

#60

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-05-16/1008:52>

Robyn notes that Al has the attention of the one that materializes next to them and takes a step aside to try to help Deckard.  She swings at the shade, hoping it is weak enough to be hurt by her whip.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-05-16/1753:49>

[spoiler]
Assuming the Succubus 19 is using her Desire Reflection power against Isaint:
Desire Reflection (http://orokos.com/roll/442885): 13d6t5 4 [13d6t5=5, 3, 3, 3, 1, 3, 4, 5, 5, 4, 5, 3, 2]
Isaint Resist: Desire Reflection Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/442887): 12d6t5 7  [12d6t5=6, 5, 2, 6, 5, 6, 1, 5, 3, 5, 4, 3]

Going on Full Defense for 22 dice

Isaint at Ini 19
Strike at Succubus: w/ Vital Shot, Adept Centering
Strike (http://orokos.com/roll/442892): 22d6t5 7 [22d6t5=6, 2, 6, 4, 4, 2, 4, 4, 2, 6, 2, 5, 6, 5, 4, 2, 4, 4, 2, 6, 3, 2]
Succubus defense:
Defense (http://orokos.com/roll/442893): 22d6t5 5
DV 13
Succubus Soak
Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/442894): 6d6t5 2
DV 11
Disrupted

[/spoiler]

And then they appeared in their midst in all their glory and gory forms.
Suddenly an all consuming rage threatened to fill his mind - and it wasn't the manipulation of one of those foul creatures. No, this was righteous rage of the Dragon Slayer himself. "VADE RETRO Satanas" he intoned his mantra - taken so long ago from the Latin exorcism prayer and now more fitting than ever.
Isaint's fist flared with white hot fire as he punched the hooded creature next to him with a Chokuzuki punch, using the ground and his body's momentum to drive it through the apparition's center. With a small scream and spraying ectoplasma the wraith disintegrated.

As he turned to use the momentum for a second swing against the other figure next to him, the world seemed to slow down. He knew this face, this form 'Nex? No, you are dead, I saw you die. My beautiful, lovely...' And again the Rage of the Dragon Slayer came over him, sharpening his senses, revealing the true form of this shape shifting devil and laying bare its ugly, tar like features
"You aren't Nex, but you are next."
And again he screamed: "VADE RETRO" before slamming the fist into the spirits face, destroying the mockery of his erstwhile beloved one.


#450

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <10-07-16/1201:11>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]

As you gather yourselves to fight the sudden appearance of the nightmarish forms Ethereal wades in to the fray, forcing the amorphous figure before her to flee as she speaks to the darkness of its soul I SAID BEGONE…

Tamsyn weaves some spell over herself whilst her companions begin to ready melee weapons to battle the foe…but all is not well, with a cry of “Get away from us” one of the girls drops her combat knife and cranking the slide on her sub machine gun sends a hail of armour piercing rounds into the centre of the group…

***

#61

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-08-16/0616:28>

The call from the girl wrenched Isaint's attention back from the abyss of fury.
Evading the opening blast from the girls SMG, Isaint brought his own weapon to the shoulder. 'I'm sorry, but this can not go on.' "Vade Retro".
He fired a quick burst himself - at the girl's weapon. The armor piercing rounds found the gun and sent it flying from her grip. Hopefully far enough so that she would need a moment to recover it.

Time to take on the cause of this incident: The large nightmarish form next to the girl didn't look happy about his little ploy ending so soon.

"VADE RETRO". Isaint charged.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-08-16/1512:52>

Robyn's whip lashes out and catches one of the spirits in a good strike..............but not quite good enough.  Al2 charges in and grips the creature in its jaws, but fails to find a way past its armor and the thing is still standing, but certainly not as confidently as it had been when it materialized.  The Elf readies her whip for a second strike.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-09-16/1844:44>

Robyn again feels a compulsion to give in to her lusty nature and respond to her natural inclination to have sex with Al right here and now and it is only through a strong sense of will that she manages to resist.

Al2 remains in place and attempts to bite the spirit, which easily turns the attack away.  It sneers at the Hell Hound in contempt, thus causing it to have its attention turned elsewhere when Robyn sends her second strike at the manifested being.  Too late, it realizes the danger and tries to turn aside from the threat of the monowhip, failing.  The additional damage is more than enough to send the spirit back to its plane.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-10-16/0846:38>

[spoiler]
Ini Phase 4:

Free Action: Called Shot Vitals
Free Action: Adept Centering
Complex Action: Isaint charges Nightmare R8 (who sustains compulsion on IC girl)
Banzai Charge (http://orokos.com/roll/444262): 24d6t5 9 [24d6t5=3, 4, 2, 3, 1, 6, 5, 6, 3, 3, 3, 1, 6, 3, 6, 6, 6, 6, 3, 6, 3, 1, 3, 4]
Spending Edge for Reroll: Edge Reroll (http://orokos.com/roll/444265): 15d6t5 7
Reaching Limit 10

Defense (http://orokos.com/roll/444263): 28d6t5 7 [28d6t5=3, 1, 3, 6, 3, 2, 6, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 3, 4, 6, 6, 5, 3, 1, 1, 2, 4, 1, 1, 2, 4, 3, 4]
2 net hits: 14 DV AP Magic
Soak (http://orokos.com/roll/444264): 8d6t5 2

Total damage 12 - Spirit disrupted.

[/spoiler]

One step, Isaint let the rifle fall into it's sling
Two steps, Isaint brought up his gauntlet, blazing from the ambient energies setting the little crucifixes on the knuckles into sharp contrast
Three steps, Isaint used a stone at the side of the walk way to gain hight and catapulted himself into the air

"VADE RETRO, DRECKSACK!"

And with the accumulated force of his anger, the momentum of his jump as well as - what he was certain was a nudge of his patron - he plunged fist first into the hooded form of the Nighmare spirit, ripping his void black essence with the blazing light of his weapon focus.
The solid form dissipated and Isaint had to roll over his shoulder to avoid crashing into the ground.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-13-16/0803:21>

As their orderly retreat under Rick's barrier descended into utter pandemonium, Al took advantage of the time-dulling qualities of his Dog-given reflexes to consider the she-demon before him..

To be fair, she'd duplicated every detail of Alyce's nude form to perfection, right down to her depilatory habits and the way certain parts jiggled as she slipped his punch. He figured she must be sucking the image from his head, because this was the Alyce he remembered from eight years back, rather than her somewhat leaner current incarnation as Robyn.

Hellspawn were materilizing all around and throughout their group, the barrier that had previously shielded them now forcing the melee into claustrophobically tight quarters. All around him teeth and weapons flashed, commands were shouted, and dying devils wailed. Al figured that as long as they were doing time in Hell, might as well have some eye-candy, and decided to kill naked-Alyce last. He didn't have to look far to see another one, black and amorphous, with its attention on Lady Raven. Never one to miss a dirty blow, he muttered the names of three and a half voodoo gods and slammed the brass knuckles they bestowed upon him into the back of what passed for a head on the thing. Its half-physical form firmed up just fine under his voudoun-blessed blow, and he sent it reeling ghostly-visage-first into the unyielding ground.

He had the abomination on the ropes and was stepping in for the kill when a cannonball hit him between the shoulders, sending him momentarily off balance. Some idiot was shooting into the press. A quick glance confirmed his suspicion, and he muttered, "Give a woman a gun, git shot inna back, natch." But he had no time to deal with her - the stunned demon was starting to come up off the ground, rising unnaturally in defiance of gravity. Al mentally thanked his Pa for the jacket then jumped high and came down atop the upper half of the thing in a vicious pounce. Stuck his left thumb into one glowing eye and latched on before jackhammering his brass-knuckled right repeatedly into the thing until its form dissipated into nothingness.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <10-13-16/0832:23>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]

The last remaining Nephilim, the diabolically naked Robyn, draws herself up, her blind eyes surveying you all with haughty contempt but then she gives a mew, that might be pleasure or perhaps pain and wraps herself around the figure that shudders in to sight in your midst… it is as if the very air is trying to claw itself away from the dreadful figure…although you can’t put your finger on it you are pretty certain you are staring at your worst nightmare incarnate and only the thin barrier of the astral softens the impact of the thing’s sightless gaze.  It’s voice comes to you without the unfortunate necessity of your ear drums, setting your adrenalin glands racing in a primal response to terror

~I Mark you pewling mortals. You dare to interrupt our slumber with your brash displays of power. Now you may never rest for I will be watching you…~

***

#62

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-13-16/0953:37>

Robyn looks about and calls her Hell Hound to her side as the last of the demons fades away.  She barely has time to consider that every member of her team now knows what she looks like starkers when the other form appears.  In spite of herself, Robyn takes a step back from the nightmare.  She has never even heard of something this terrifying and not even the demon in Cambodia had elicited such a feeling of dread in her.  Nevertheless, she forces herself to come stop walking backwards and be prepared to act if the..................thing.............decides to do more than talk. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-13-16/1042:18>

"Well, watch this: VADE RETRO"

And once again, Isaint launched himself blazing fist first into the vast figure in front of him. Once more he felt the push his patron gave him, felt how the rage his patron bestowed on him kept the dread at bay. It would cost him - probably very much and very soon - but for now he was vessel and weapon of for St. George, the Dragon Slayer, the Protector. 'You won't get them, not while I live.'

He wasn't sure if the spirit had materialized or only manifested - but he didn't particularly care either and neither did his active weapon focus: As a dual natured object itself it had no trouble hitting things in the astral, now that the spirit had foolishly revealed his position.

Just as he was about to connect, the second succubus slithered in front of her lord, taking the attack fully to the face. The succubus was disrupted, but the brief moment of slowing down was enough for the Nightmare to move just enough to the side that Isaint only graced his essence.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <10-18-16/0903:19>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Gardens of Dis, Below, London]
 
With a ghastly laugh the spirit is gone…only its voice lingers briefly
 
~Everyone sleeps, even you Dragon Slayer…~
 
And you all realise that the palpable tension in the air is gone, you hadn’t even noticed its heaviness in the adrenalin fuelled combat high…presumably it was caused by the very presence of the diabolical Nephilim.
 
Ethereal turns to you with a sad look on what you can see of her hooded visage
 
“You should not have come here.  I do not know what Fate brought you here but you have woken something that should have slept…”  turning to address Isaint “If that is your totem perhaps you were drawn here, I do not know…but I pity you.  Go now, there are too many great powers here, it is an irrepressible lure for the darkness.  I suspect you will not listen to my advice but I urge you to flee Below.  Seek the sunlight for it is abhorrent to the shadows.”
 
***
 
#63

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-18-16/0932:34>

"That fucker will have to get in line with my other nightmares.
But yeah, thanks for the tip. It's not like we came here for a picknick. Time to invest in a FAB III air-freshener"
Giving once again the sign to disengage - with a little emphasis in Robyn's direction - Isaint nodded towards the IC girls and said barely audible: "Next time we select the meeting ground." 

#454

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-18-16/1025:55>

Robyn retracts the whip back into her finger and calls Al2 to her side as the ethereal woman speaks.  She listens to ISaint then says, "Our thanks for intervening to help us.  I live Below and do not wish to abandon my home here so will have to find a way to make peace with the spirits, but I will certainly avoid this place in the future.  As for the rest of us, we are forced here by The Old One to complete a task for him."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-18-16/1059:39>

Isaint had to suppress the impulse to face palm while still wearing his cestus.
<<Robyn. What. The. Hell. Old Ones Agents meet Iron Company Heir. Maybe you want to take out an add in the papers about our plans. Shut your mouth at once. NOW!>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-18-16/1141:38>

Although kicking the crap out of Satan's servants was one of Al's very favorite things in the world to do, he nonetheless found himself greatly relieved at the survivors' craven departure. There was an ugly aura about them, something inky and wrong that he didn't want anywhere near his soul.

But whatever dread they took with them, they left a greater behind...Al glanced around and saw no one hurt....the ground team was all there, as was Rick....but no sign of Jackhammer or Iris, whom they'd lost comms with during the tussle.

"Anyone got a ping on Dream Queen an' the Big Guy?," he asked, but was headed in the direction of their overwatch positions without waiting for an answer.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-18-16/1249:21>

'Shit. What do I have to fear from a Nightmare spirit when I have a life nightmare in my real life.'

Isaint turned to Al: "On it. I'm hailing them now."

<<Jackhammer, Iris, where are you? Please respond - fight's over we are regrouping at Robyn's place.>>

#456

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-18-16/1654:10>

It took Al seconds to reach the overwatch position. He found no one there. But their trail was not hard to follow. Tracking Jackhammer was like stalking an elephant in any conditions. More worryingly, though, Iris's trail was almost equally plain. They had certainly taken no care in their movements.

The trails were the same for a short while, then split in some light foliage near one of the park's entrances. He bent to look at the sign more closely, wincing as the movement brought a deep bruise at the nape of his neck to his attention. Damned girls with guns. Oughtta be a law...

He heard from Isaint that there was no response on their comms, but that Robyn was tracking their signal. All well and good, but Al wasn't waiting. Figuring Iris was most vulnerable, he moved off in her direction and found her within a few seconds in an alcove along one of the exit passages. She was sitting in brackish puddle, head down, hands over her ears, just rocking back and forth, her already brazen outfit indecent in its careless disarray, the cloth marred by flight through brambles, skin besmirched by the filth of Below.

He squatted before her, but got no response until he gently pulled her hands from her ears. She looked at him questioningly, and he was about to say something when he saw some of his companions reach the point where the trail had split. He waved and pointed, speaking into his mic: <<Big Guy went thataway, an' he weren't treadin' lightly - just look fer broken shit.>>

Then he returned his attention to the dishevelled beauty, standing and drawing her up by her hands. He adjusted some clothes so lightly she didn't even feel the touch, rendering her decent.

She was muttering something almost inaudibly as he walked her hand-in-hand back towards the others.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-18-16/1724:05>

Isaint had wanted to say something about not splitting up, but gave up on it. Instead he said: "Wait here, I'll go for Jackhammer."

As Al had prophesied, finding Jackhammer was no problem: The big ork had practically cut a swath through the park and was now engrossed in a fight against a tree, a fight which the tree was evidently losing - badly.
Isaint tried to calm down his chummer: "Jackhammer. Stop. It's me."
Which were evidently the wrong words. The ork turned towards him, foaming at the mouth and with blood shot eyes. His knuckles were bleeding where he had punched the tree.
Jackhammer charged. Isaint reacted without thinking: He drew his Ruger in one fluid motion, the cylinder turning by mental command: GEL
The shot hit, but barely slowed the huge ork down, Isaint had to tumble to the side, to avoid being felled. With his free hand he drew one of his tasers. The shot went off and hit, but either the rage had shut off his pain receptors or he was just that tough: Jackhammer ripped out the tines before they could do any more damage.
'Alright, gel, electricity, only one thing left.'
Isaint evaded again - narrowly - a series of swings. With flying fingers he produced his Savalette Guardian and managed an impressive reload within three quarters of a second before shooting a short burst at the ork. The bullets just splashed against his barrel like chest. With a cry full of anger and pain Jackhammer charged again, but now his steps were getting irregular, he began to stagger, lurch from side to side, before he fell: Hands outstreched towards Isaint, face first into the ground.
Isaint let out a huge sigh of relieve. Good old Narcoject. Quickly he gathered up his various weapons.

Now, all he had to do was carry the 140 kg ork back...

Isaint appeared a short while later with Jackhammer over his shoulder, moving slowly but steadily. Then he lost patience and just levitated Jackhammer before him.
"Let's leave before anything else happens."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-18-16/1823:33>

"Amen ta that," Al said, wishing Isaint meant "Below" when he spoke of leaving, but knowing he didn't.

Regrouped, he took the opportunity to put a hand on Rick's shoulder. "Can't say I much approve o' your callin' onna forces o' darkness, kemo sabe, but reckon I'll have ta allow yer little wall o' devilry done gone a long way toward savin' our collective bacon. This coulda ended a helluva lot diff'rent," he said, nodding at Jackhammer and Iris.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-19-16/0056:17>

Robyn bows low to the etherial woman and bids her a farewell, turning to follow the others.  She tracks the 'links of Iris and Jackhammer and sends that information off to ISaint and the others even as she moves closer to Tamsyn and the other girls.  Robyn feels a need to try to salvage something from the event by sticking with the three Iron Company girls for a few minutes and as they leave the park, she sends a message.  >>First off, that was not very polite and you do not know if she would have been willing to help us.  She stood with us and fought against the Nephim and I thought that she deserved at least a polite farewell.  There is no way that she did not already suspect something just from the close association of three Iron Company girls and a well known First House member talking together in an out-of-the-way place.  Your knowledge and experience Below is affecting your thoughts and actions just as my experiences here affect my own thoughts and actions.  If you keep this a secret from everyone, are you not in danger of accomplishing nothing?  Anyway, I am standing with the Iron Company girls and wondering if you would still like to chat them up a bit?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-19-16/0327:07>

Quote from: Mercy Merchant on <10-19-16/0056:17>

>>First off, that was not very polite and you do not know if she would have been willing to help us.  She stood with us and fought against the Nephim and I thought that she deserved at least a polite farewell.  There is no way that she did not already suspect something just from the close association of three Iron Company girls and a well known First House member talking together in an out-of-the-way place.  Your knowledge and experience Below is affecting your thoughts and actions just as my experiences here affect my own thoughts and actions.  If you keep this a secret from everyone, are you not in danger of accomplishing nothing?  Anyway, I am standing with the Iron Company girls and wondering if you would still like to chat them up a bit?<<

Isaint started to compose an angry message of his own but stopped. He felt the adrenaline receding, bringing a slight tremor to his hands. No need to rush. Instead he made sure the team had gathered and that Iris was alive if not ok.

Only then he composed his answer:

<<Robyn, at the moment I am very angry.
This is the third time you ignored my command to disengage instead of talking to a stranger. If you want to be the team lead, please say so and give the others a chance to affirm your choices.
Because you and I are not just deciding for ourselves but for the well being of the whole team. I admit that I don't have a spotless track record - partially because two of our members did not stay with Rick as I told them.

This is not about you being polite, this is you needlessly exposing our affiliation.

Point in case:
The flower woman is the only source of information we have regarding the Nephilim. Her saying we awakened them is not necessarily the truth. Every con man knows it's easiest to get the mark to do what you want if you create a crisis and than step up to help.
Because from my perspective she didn't disrupt any spirits but only sent them away.
And unlike you she didn't introduce herself or explain her affiliations - so you were under no pressure to tell her - or tell her the full truth at that.

Verify than trust: Giving away information without learning everything you can beforehand about the trustee is incredible irresponsible. Even if it turns out she is the secret resistance within the house and pro marriage your handling of this situation is unacceptable to me.
This is a secret mission, one that the Old One explicitly wanted a group of outsiders for.

And do not chat like friends with Iron Company girls while the flower spy is still around. Not only could you divulge more of our agenda, but also you are telling them that this was a cordial meeting and not a business one.

I hope I have made myself clear.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-19-16/0951:14>

Robyn considers several responses, finally settling on one that she hopes is the best.  >>ISaint, you are the team lead and are, of course correct.  I will do my best to not let myself act against your wishes again.  As it is, I and the Iron Company girls are already out of the garden and away from the other woman and I have not said anything to them.  I see that you are making your way in the direction of my house and will join you there.  What, if anything, do you wish me to tell Tamsyn before leaving her?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-19-16/1218:27>

As they shepherded their hors de combat comrades back to Robyn’s place, Al waxed philosophical.

As was his nature.

“To thine own self be true. That’s what she says inna Good Book,” he proclaimed, cigarette bouncing in the corner of his mouth as he spoke. “Goes right ‘long with the first an’ great commandment ta know thyself afore all others. Ya see, that whole fracas back there coulda all been avoided with jist a bit more self-knowledge. All comes down ta drugs. Drugs’re bad. Rob a man o’ who he is. Less’n yer a damned hippie, I s’pose, in which case they make ya who ya are. But I digress. Drugs’re bad. They’s the very opposite o’ self-knowledge. Now parallel ta that, demons is bad. Righteous bad. Toxics, bugs, twisted, fairy, ol’ Al’s done ‘em all an’ then some. An’ they’s all bad. But them back there, that was the crème de la crème of evil. That kinda evil can only be had when ya got demons on drugs. That’s right folks. Only explanation for it. What with they sex perversions an’ mind-poisonin’ ways. Them demons was helpin’ theyselves ta the Flowers’ stash. That’s why they was so repellent ta our human, self-knowin’ souls, cuz their own diabolical nature plus the degradation of imbibin’ the unnatural created an evil greater’n the sum o’ the damned parts. Come right down to it, what we had back there was hippy demons. Which is precisely why it were so critical ya had ol’ Al around. My natural anti-disposition to any an’ all drug use combined with my higher level o’ self-knowledge was a sure-fire anathema ta them freaks. Reckon we find a way ta git these here Underdwellers ta awake from they opiate-addled slumbers and come ta some knowledge o’ theyselves, hell, we could make this whole bedezined place Christian yet.”

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-19-16/1311:21>

Despite all the horrible, horrible circumstances Isaint had to grin behind his mask. Damn it, this small man was unbelievable. Stuff like this made Isaint feel as if he was friends with Al for years instead of the two months. You had to be made of stone not to be amused.

With his mood drastically improved he answered Al: "I sure am glad to have you with me on this case."
Then he composed his message to Robyn:
<<Good. For one thing you can tell them that turning this meeting into a test was a very stupid move. It cost all of us more than necessary. Getting access to the flower girl is now our most important next step - without anyone of her house getting wind of it.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-19-16/1713:30>

"I sure am glad to have you with me on this case."

"Yeah, them such as survive my association are gen'rally glad of it. Jist don't go try holdin' my hand or nothin'."

All the time he talked, Al was taking careful note of their path. He'd been keeping track since coming back down here. After spending the last month studying maps of this hell on the unthinkable but now materialized chance he could ever be cajoled back down here, he was determined not to be left at the mercy of another psycho local guide.

By his reckoning, they should be linking back up with Alyce soon...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-20-16/0931:13>

Robyn turns to the three Iron Company girls.  "Tamsyn, if this was a test, I hope that you are satisfied with our abilities.  Do you have any means to get in contact with your fiancee?  We would like to talk to both of you together, if that is possible to arrange.  Can you make that happen?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-21-16/1355:19>

As they wound through the passageways, Al ducked into a food kiosk and came out with a six-pack. Tossed cold ones to any takers, then let the remaining cans hang from his fingers by the vacated plastic rings. Sipping as he walked, his thoughts grew deeper, more contemplative. Enlightened and illuminating.

And, as was his nature, he shared his insights.

"Been givin' a fair 'mount o' thought ta what could reduce a whole damned community to such depths o' degeneracy as we done witnessed down here. Now I speak the truth here, I seen novacoke whores workin' the streets o' Berlin with more good sense an' dignity than any dozen o' the molefolk I done run into so far down here. So it can't be jist the steady diet o' drugs. So then I'm moseyin' 'long an' wishin' fer a bit o' real sunlight, an' she hits me. Ever'thin' down here's damned artificial light. Now stay with me, boys an' girls. We all know light-emitting diodes can be programmed ta oscillate in binary code. Ain't no doubt in my mind the big chiefs of all these Houses an' whatnot're usin' the lights ta program these underdwellers with subliminal messages. Stuff like, 'take more drugs,' 'sex slavery's okay', an' 'whaddaya need the sun for, anyway?' is streamin' steadily inta what's left o' these lost souls' minds. Now don't think fer a second that makes 'em any less culpable, cuz it don't. Hell, they wouldn't all be susceptible ta this mind control if they hadn't already weakened they own wills by gladly accepting Satan's own blindin' corruption into they noses an' veins. So now they's bound by chains o' they own contrivin', wallowin' in a downward spiral of ever greater abomination an' depravity."

He glanced up at a light inset over a shopfront and upped the light filtration on his flare compensation system.

"Ol' Al's thinkin' a few well placed subtacticals could open up a few holes, flood this place with real sunlight. I mean, sure, there might a bit o' co-lateral damage, but what price a soul saved, right?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-21-16/1409:46>

"I can't deny that I'd like some sunlight too - but I have to remind you that we entered this place after we got into a little high speed chase followed by a slight shoot out with the London Metropolitan Police. Personally I'm quite content with the fact that there are no holes over my head at the moment.

The slavery part is what irks me the most - we should see if we can't influence the little flower princess to direct her house away from those practices."
Isaint had accepted the can and even sipped it, but was immediately reminded why he usually avoided those brands. Still, he nodded his thanks to Al, holding on to the open can.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-21-16/1626:52>

"Direct her house away....Franklin fuckin' Roosevelt on a pogo stick, kemo sabe, she's one of 'em. What part o' marryin' after her own sex an' out of her own kind makes ya think she's any less degenerate than the rest? Jist cuz she's the poor misunderstood protagonist o' this little tragicomedy we done got ourselves roped into? Hell, sum total of anything we achieve down here like as not gon' strengthen the damn hippy slavers as soften 'em up. Babel in reverse, that's what this place is. Old Testament they was a blasphemous bunch o' rubes, but at least they sin was tryin' ta build a tower up ta Heaven. These mole people, they's tryin' ta dig they way down ta Hell. Damned aspirational sinners is what they are, an' the only way they gon' git Saved is ta git rid o' the subliminal signals from these here lights."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-22-16/0406:36>

"Al, who those two fancy really is only their concern. God knows how often I've had to see my elven lady friend reconfigure faces when some ass spouted something about elf-orc race disgrace.
And as much as I'd like to clean up here with fire and steel, the fact remains that permanent change for the better needs understanding and education more than violence. Shooting someone is easy, but it's seldom a good idea to change a society by shooting all of them.
It's a rough hand we were dealt from the Old One. It would make me quite happy if we could leverage that to our advantage while keeping our contract to the letter."

#461

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-22-16/0452:14>

"Well, I'll allow my opinions on what y'all Spocks, halfers, an' tuskers do are my own, but as fer the other thing, the Good Book ain't no damned buffet - ya don't jist go pickin' an' choosin' which commandments yer gon' keep. But I ain't said nothin' 'bout shootin' no one, much less all of 'em, Straw Man Amigo. Now reprogrammin' these here lights, that's where we start. 'Course all that's assumin' I got two minutes ta spare fer this cesspool, an' reckon I don't."

He paused to toss his empty beer can aside and light a new cigarette before opening the next. "But don't worry 'bout the job. Ol' Al's only down here ta back you an' Sleepin' Beauty here, since y'all seem to've made the all-too-common mistake o' thinkin' what that ol' geezer says makes a lick o' sense. So I'm in it till yer happy he's happy, an' then good riddance ta this crypt fer the half-livin'." 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-22-16/1228:20>

Robyn looks at Tamsyn as the girl apparently wars with saying something.  [color]"Look, I can maybe understand some reticence on your part to discuss this sort of thing, but we really are here to help you and it would be nice to actually sit and talk with one or both of you.  This charade or test or accident, whatever it was, did not get much accomplished and we really need to get some planning done. You have my com code, so please come to a decision and let me know.  We would love a meeting, a real meeting, with you both, but right now, I need to get back to my companions.  Call me, please."

Robyn nods at all three girls and leaves, headed back to her house.  Along the way she spies a beer can on the ground and picks it up, putting it in a nearby rubbish bin.  >>Team.  Robyn.  On the way to meet you at my house.  I left Tamsyn to decide if she wants to help us get this thing moving.  I asked her to contact her lover and see if she can set up a meeting.  I hope that is OK?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-23-16/1203:51>

Isaint shrugged: "I'm with you on that. Hopefully the flower girl will have a meeting at a less ridiculous place. But just in case, we should think about preparing some explosive solutions for the next time. It's time for me to hit the market anyway."

#462

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-23-16/1347:57>

>>Brilliant.  I will see you shortly.  How are Iris and Jackhammer?  Do they need medical care?"<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-23-16/1353:22>

<<That's a yes. I had to subdue Jackhammer with pretty much all non-lethal stuff I had in my arsenal and Iris doesn't look to good either.>>
Isaint replied

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-23-16/1409:53>

Robyn picks up her pace, arriving at her house quickly, grabs a medkit from a cupboard and asks to see the two injured people.  Each has been placed in a different bedroom and she goes to each to check on vitals and determine which is the more seriously injured.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-24-16/0825:48>

Back at the house, Al spoke to Isaint: "If yer goin' shoppin', yer either takin' me or my wish-list with ya, 'specially if boom-boom's what yer after. All these quick getaways done left my bag o' tricks a little light, an' the one good thing 'bout the market down here is I unnerstand they's a bit more laissez-faire with regard ta what's onna shelves."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-24-16/0832:22>

"You can bet that I want you with me. I only do prepackaged stuff. For the real surprising things I'll need your expertise."
Isaint replied

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-24-16/1022:33>

Robyn shakes her head at the condition of Jackhammer and Iris and sets to work treating their physical injuries.  Once the initial triage is done and each has a kit hooked up to them, she walks outside and sits on a small bench before pulling a somewhat crumpled pack of fags from her pocket and lighting one.  She sighs as she draws the first smoke in and slowly lets it out.  She is linked to the monitors on the kits and knows she will be awakened if something goes wrong, so she takes the luxury of finishing the Lucky Strike then sitting for a few moments of rest.  The massive Hell Hound is curled up about at feet and two Fly-Spy drones monitor the approaches to the house.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-24-16/1641:59>

While Isaint prepared for the supply run and as it was being decided who would stay and who would go, Al joined Alyce outside for a smoke.

A lost soul, by his reckoning. In both the romantic and religious senses. He was partial to neither.

And she thought like a woman, an affliction he'd found common to her gender.

Still, she was the most beautiful person he'd ever known. And not bad looking, either.

Eight years to catch up on or not, he'd been trying to maintain a certain level of survival-detachment while they were working, but that damned demon's counterfeit of her had not been helpful. He reckoned its representation was accurate on more levels than one, but he nonetheless had to work hard to keep his head in check when he smelled her, and when her thigh touched his he thought for a second she had some sort of shock weapon there, the way it sent a tangible tingle up spine...and down it.

"Longer I'm down here, lower my opinion o' this place gits. But you choose to live down here. Mind openin' ol' Al's mind ta any conceivable good points? An' while yer at it, ya think shuttin' off the light-messages'd do even a lick o' good?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-24-16/1702:12>

Isaint meanwhile had found a cushioned sofa, a cup of hot tea and had allowed himself the luxury of taking off his boots and his wool socks seemed to steam almost as much as his tea cup. Ignoring that particular fact, Isaint was surrounded by half a dozen AR windows, where he and his agent cluster pursued various searches and what looked like exploding diagrams.
A few times, he gave a few short commands to Arthur on downloading specific software. Both of the mages seemed to have gone into a trance or something - at least he hadn't heard a single word from them in quite a while.
Though, the concentration on his work couldn't prevent that the words of the Nightmare came back into his mind: "Even you have to sleep."
Isaint hated to admit it, but the spirit had a point. He would have problems, if that shadow spirit sent his minions after him and his charges that materialized while he was sleeping. But that was one of the problems, for which Isaint now was searching solutions.
 
#465

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-25-16/0045:53>

Alyce hears the door open and a man steps out of the house and she knows that it is Al even before he takes a second step.  Even without the aid of her ultrasound sensor and the drones flitting about, she would know him.  The scent of his sweat that has permeated his old bomber jacket identifies him to her and is as much his alone as a retina scan would be.  The hound at her feet raises its head, but Alyce makes a noise with her tongue and the massive head goes back down on its huge paws.  Before Al sits, she has fished another fag from her pack, lit it from the end of her own and has it ready for him to take from her fingers.

His presence so close to her sends tingles throughout her body and she knows without the slightest shred of doubt that she loves this man beyond all reason.  She carefully considers her answers to his questions because she has a rather disturbing habit of saying the wrong thing where he is concerned.  Shaking her head she keeps her voice calm as she replies, “I have two homes in London.  One is in the Overworld, above the bookshop I own, and the other is this one, in Below.  I spend about half my time in London at each home.”

“I made friends and learned to live among the people here.  Up there I am considered by many to be a freak.  My brain will not let me forget anything, even if I wanted to.  I can remember every event in my life going back to a very young age.  That means that even though I am blind, I am a concert level cellist and a skilled surgeon, and many people think that is very odd.  Down here it is different.  I am not considered a freak, just one of the normal people.  Being accepted is important, Al, and I am more accepted down here than up there.  So that is the short story of why I live here part of the time.  I will give you the much longer version some day if you ask me to.”

“As for good points, there are as many good people in this mix as there are up there, Al.  You have seen the worst of people here and so can be excused for thinking that all of them are like that.  But is it so different in the Overworld?  Were the people that attacked us at the safe house from down here?  I have heard about why you came here before, and I ask you if the people that chased you down here were from Below?  The people in Cambodia that almost killed us were not from Below.  Yet you are not lumping all of the people on the Overworld into one group and saying they are all bad.  So why do you do that for all the people who live down here?  I have found honesty and compassion for others in good measure here.  Doctors treat illnesses and injuries, people fall in love and have families, others write music and bring joy to others with it.  In effect, just the same as in the world above us.  Also, I am not so sure that the Houses down here are all that different from the corporation anywhere else.  It is hard to move in the Overworld without running into something influenced by one AAA or another, right?  So they have just substituted the Houses for the AAAs and life moves on.  I think that you consider the Houses bad mainly because you and ISaint and Jackhammer had a bad experience here, but it would be just the same if you had a bad experience with Ares or Renraku or EVO, right?  But I do not hear any of you talking about them with quite the same sense of dislike as when you talk about the hippie flower poisoners or any of the other Houses here.”

She shakes her head and crushes her cigarette into the ashtray she moves between them.  She flicks her battered Zippo to light another one and moves to his second question.  “Messages in the lights?  No, Al, I doubt that there is much you can do about the messages in the lights.  The people down here have probably been affected for generations now and the message is part of their brains and passed on from parents to kids.  But I think that your problem is bigger than you think it is.  If such a thing is rampant here, what makes you think that it is not used even more above us?  Lots more people and lots more lights.  There are periods of daylight, sure, but how many people work in offices or buildings where the light source in from overhead?  And a good bit of every day is going to be dark and the lights come on with their hidden messages.  No, I think that it is too late to do anything about the lights; both down here and up there.  Hmm, I suppose that you find those responsible and have them start putting better messages so that you can turn everything around.  The problem is knowing where to start.”

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-25-16/0618:53>

For a moment Al was alarmed by the idea that there might be messages in the lights of the real world as well. But then he came to his senses. Chuckling softly, he scuttled Alyce’s quaint theory as gently and as decisively as he could. “Only trouble with that idear, toots, is ol’ Al’s been livin’ up there near half a century, an’ I ain’t never seen nor heard no subliminal messages. Nope, reckon that’s jist somethin’ they use ta keep people evil down here. Prob’ly bein’ blind’s saved yerself from the worst of it.” He smiled as one would at a small child. “Never woulda thought you’d go in fer that sorta cockamamie conspiracy theory.”

After a moment’s reflection, he added, “Fact of it is, another reason there couldn’t be any such messages up in the good world is precisely what scuppers yer moral equivalency about the Houses an’ the megas. Cuz if some mad genius tried ta sneak messages into the lights o’ good, hard-workin’ folks, well you can bet the Red Samurai’d be Johnny-onna-spot to put the brakes on that sorta tomfoolery. So I s’pose ya git my point—sure Renraku funds them heroes outta justified self-interest in keepin’ its own citizens an’ assets safe. But the things I done seen those boys do over the years, from stoppin’ eco-terrorists’ dirty bombs, breakin’ up shadowrunners’ kiddie porn rings, an’ crackin’ down on one o’ my own pet peeves, workplace time theft, well, the good they done free o’ charge an’ ta the world at large is well-nigh incalculable. An’ that’s jist one example o’ one corp. I mean, I was watchin’ on AZTV jist t’other day this documentary on how much of Aztechnology’s modest profits are funnelled straight into education an’ clean water programs in developin’ economies, an’ the documentary also pointed out how the company does it without seekin’ no sorta publicity nor thanks at all, jist helps all these poor an’ downtrodden folk all quiet an’ Christian-like.

“Reckon I know it’s a fallen world, an’ we’s all sinners, but while we all err, the differences is in what we’s aimin’ an’ strivin’ for. Up inna sun, some individuals do horrible things, but as a society we done agreed stuff like sex slavery o’ kids is not gon’ stand. Now this Flowers house, they’s self-admitted slavers. An’ even if the other Houses ain’t doin’ that, they’s toleratin’ it, which is the same thing. Ya see any folk down here boycottin’ Flowers drugs cuz they’s tested on unwillin’, kidnapped children? Hell no. Them degenerates tried stealin’ a girl we was with, admitted they was gon’ turn ‘er out as a whore, an’ when we tried ta git ‘er back, ya think anyone in the crowd, Flower or not, tried to help? Or was they even jist stayin’ onna sidelines? Hell no, they all was on the Flower side, followin’ us ‘round like a bunch a’ zombies pronouncin’ some sorta death sentence on us jist fer savin’ that girl. That’s when I knew it’s the whole lot of ‘em down here that’s rotten. Stands in pretty sharp contrast to the constant altruism the triple-As is gracin’ the real world with ever’ damned day o’ the week.”

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-25-16/0952:36>

Alyce sighs.  "Just remember that it was Azzies that were trying to kill us in Cambodia, but I suppose that could have just been an accident, but you did have some very unkind words about them at the time, as I recall"  She finishes her second cigarette and reaches for a third then puts it back in the pack.  "You are an amazing man, Al, and I am in love with you, no matter what.  I hope that we get the chance to do this dating ting so I can show you how much I love you.  After that, the rest will be up to you.  You will never change my mind, even if you decide I am not the girl for you.  I am glad that you are still alive and that I have had a chance to see you again."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-25-16/1021:52>

If Al was going to reply to Alyce’s point about the Azzies, he was derailed by her comments that followed. Flustered but not surprised by her abrupt declarations, he said, “Dating? What are we, seventeen? Courtship, woman, that were the term ol’ Al used. Carries a sense o’ pacin’, the word does. A period o’ amicable association with an eye perhaps ta greater mutual acquaintance, an’, if apropos, an eventual measure o’ familiarity. Opposite o’ rushin’ headlong into things.”

Al, for his part, did not refrain from a third cigarette, which appeared as if from nowhere in his scarred hand. He lit it with the big Zippo that appeared in the other. Puffed a few times, then spoke without taking it out of the corner of his mouth. “Eight years. People can change. They can change a lot.”

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-25-16/1046:47>

Alyce's heart sinks a bit at Al's last words, wondering if that means he has grown away from her, or if he was ever really into her in the first place.  Still, he has not come out and said he is not interested yet, so she can still hope.  But she is a bit worried about it and decides to have that third smoke after all.  Her hand is shaking a bit as she pulls it out and lights it.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-25-16/1133:12>

Although he did not agree with their way of life, Al was not unfamiliar with the ways of women. It was clear from Alyce’s uncharacteristic reaction that he’d upset her in some way, though he could not conceive of how.

Fond of her, he’d have liked to fix it. Whatever it was. That, however, would require the sort of conversation he’d prefer strenuously to avoid under any circumstances, and one that would be simply unconscionable while working.

“Well, underground or not, it’s a nice place ya got here, an’ mighty hospitable of ya ta let us use it.” And with that he went inside to see if Isaint was ready to hit the market.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-25-16/1659:23>

Isaint looked up as Al came back in. The tea cup was empty and Isaint rubbed his temples while yawned hugely.
"Perfect timing. Matrix coverage down here is spotty, but I was able to get in contact with a few specialty shops, as well as getting my armorer to launch a delivery drone. Since you are looking for explosives, I think I have a solution to get what we need, but we might need to leave Below again for a day or two."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-25-16/1933:24>

It was music to Al's ears. They didn't seem to be on any sort of real timeline with this job anyway, and it wouldn't have mattered to him if they were - he was down here only because his friends Isaint and Jackhammer had gone along with the old geezer's wishes. But Jack was currently past giving a crap, though in good care with Alyce, so even if Isaint walked off the job completely, Al would happily be seconds behind.

Sadly, he figured the ork meant it when he said a day or two, but he was happy for the chance anyway.

"Reckon the cops is lookin' fer us, but you got that ork-o'-many-faces thing goin' on, and my superhuman Thespian powers'll alter my gait an' demeanor enough ta completely throw off any observer with no actual change ta my appearance whatever. Jist us two, or the others comin'. Might could kill two birds with one stone, git Jack an' Iris some better care topside...."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-26-16/0031:10>

Alyce stays outside the house to finish her smoke and to try to get herself back under control.  The actual words he had said were bad enough, but the way he had callously said them had made it worse.  Of course, it could just as well mean that he had changed enough in the eight years to finally need her in his life.  She swears softly in her mother tongue, damning her heart for betraying her to a man who is both so perfect and so maddening at the same time.  Without really realizing it, she has finished her third fag and chain lit a fourth. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-26-16/0301:00>

"I'd prefer to expose as few people as possible. Only you and Alice will really be needed for this excursion - her I need mainly because she is a a hacker, a doctor and has access to certain chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

See, the problem is: To get explosives down here we'd have to jump through quite a few hoops, while topside there is a certain level of concern about a recent terror attack. The only way to get the stuff we need safely is to make it ourselves.
Now, bomb making is nothing you should undertake lightly - or at all. Therefore I'm busy setting up a shop full of drones who'll do the actual mixing for us. That way - if anything happens - we won't be around for the officials or the crater.
Getting the raw materials will be the tricky part. There are watch lists for this stuff. Now if a doctor from a university or a hospital would order such base components from different suppliers, this will be a whole other story.

This also gives me the opportunity to get some other supplies as well."
Isaint replied.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-26-16/0629:00>

"All well an' good, kemo sabe. Couple things, though. First, whatcha wanna do with our befuddled friends? We take Robyn, they's no one here ta properly look after 'em? Second, jist sayin', I only mentioned shoppin' fer explosives cuz supplies was gittin' thin an' you was goin' ta the market anyway. But yer plan seems like a lotta trouble jist ta cater ta my pyromanic predilections. I mean, blowin' things up ain't precisely mission-critical fer this here matchmakin' job...less'n ya got some plan ya ain't shared with ol' Al."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-26-16/0643:12>

"If this little outing taught me anything, it's that a disruption of the ceremony with an ad hoc calling of a bunch of high powered spirits would be a massive problem. We want to be prepared for this when the time comes - preferably with a bunch of shaped charges, we can use to liquefy those spirits before they can act and without hurting the audience. Overwhelming force against super powered spirits.

Our friends I'll leave in the care of Mrs. Karasu and Rick. They are both well equipped to fend of any Spirits that might come after them to finish them off. Karasu is also qualified to administer any required care.

And no, this is not about pyromania. Your skills with creating an ad hoc exit have twice now saved our bacon. I see it as imperative that we are able to keep up these kind of stunts. Especially if we create a bunch of bomb drones that we use to disrupt spirits."
Isaint grinned. "As a wise mage said: As the size of an explosion increases, the number of social situations it is incapable of solving approaches zero"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <10-26-16/0801:56>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Robyn’s Place, Below, London]

While Robyn deals with the flustered emotions created by Al, a small, gnomelike figure appears out of the air…clearly a small spirit

“My mistress sent me to deliver a message, she can’t use the matrix thing, too many ears in her House.  I can be the go between, she hears what I do.  She said she hasn’t seen her love since her family barred the Flowers from their gates, but I know her, can take her a message too if you like?”

***

#64

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-26-16/1008:20>

Robyn looks at the small courier spirit and smiles.  She responds to it at the same time she is sending a message to the others.  "Thank you, kind friend, for acting as a messenger.  I will ask my companions if they would like to send a note to her."  >>Hey.  There is a courier spirit out here that was sent by Tamsyn.  It is offering to act as a go-between to her lover.  What should I have it tell her?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-26-16/1021:46>

Isaint didn't bother with a matrix reply, instead he walked out to Robyn.
"Greetings. Please tell your mistress that we need to know if there are any holy places she categorically doesn't want to have her marriage in.
We are planing to hold a concert to disguise the ceremony in front of a large crowd.
And on the flip side, we need to know if there are any holy places she can recommend where we can prepare our concert to disguise the ceremony.
We are still looking for an official to do the official ceremony so we wouldn't be averse to a recommendation.
Furthermore we also should have at least one face to face meeting beforehand. Preferably at a safe, yet discreet public place."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-29-16/1400:10>

Al had followed Isaint out to witness his Satanic congress. The demon was small, and attempted to hide its malevolence with a modicum of cuteness. Al wasn't fooled.

Isaint laid things out for the imp. Al wondered how he knew it was really from the lesbians. Probably it was a gut thing. And if he didn't trust the gnome, he trusted the German ork's gut.

The thing listened impassively, and with a delay of only a few seconds, spoke again, as if relaying words. The ceremony must be on the Isle of Lyonesse. And then it held up a miniscule hand as Isaint started to object. My Mistress is aware you may have concerns, but since you request a face-to-face meeting in any case, then your objections are best aired in that setting. My Mistress herself is too closely watched right now, since the trouble in the gardens. But her beloved Cara will meet you. My Mistress will make the arrangements, and I will return with news.

Then the thing was gone. Not knowing how long the wait would be, or when the meet might be. they started getting ready for their errands topside - Robyn giving instructions for Lady Karasu in the care of Iris and Jackhammer, Isaint going over his elaborate plans for securing and fabricating explosives, and Al pretending to listen to him while some new tricks he could teach Spike.

Before they could consider actually leaving, however, the runt-spirit was back.

Go the fourth level of Nightside Market, a well-known shop called Pretty Poison. She will see you there. Do not acknowledge her when you see her, but follow discreetly and she will lead you to a place where you can converse freely. Sadly, she must be very judicious, and can rely on none of her own House to assist her. They will not know you are expected of her, and in fact would likely try to hinder you if they did know. So tread lightly, for many are her kindred in that part of the market, and you are ill-loved by them, whatever the formal rulings.

And then the spirit was gone.

"Well, there ya have it - wherever we least wanna go, that's sure 'nuff where we's goin'."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-29-16/1458:33>

Robyn smiles but says nothing, waiting to see where ISaint was going to lead them first.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-29-16/1538:19>

Isaint groaned inwardly at the mention of an astral journey - the one place where spirits would have all the advantage. But he held his tongue for the moment.
"Alright, we three will meet her."

Once the spirit had gone, he turned to the other two: "Looks like we'll go sooner than expected to the market. Not getting recognized would be a good idea for that - which means we three will have to disguise ourselves. Let's go inside and see what we can scrounge up in that regard - especially for you Al. You have a rather markant profile."

[spoiler]
Disguise checks for everyone. I'd be delighted about some teamwork help:
Al: Disguise (http://orokos.com/roll/451008): 13d6t5 4 [13d6t5=2, 1, 5, 3, 2, 5, 4, 4, 3, 6, 2, 5, 2]
Robyn: Disguise (http://orokos.com/roll/451009): 13d6t5 7
Isaint: Disguise (http://orokos.com/roll/451010): 14d6t5 4


[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-29-16/1606:00>

Robyn does what she can to help with the disguises, but is best used as someone who can hold items.  This is another of her weak points, but is not something that she really thought that she would need.

[spoiler]Disguise (http://orokos.com/roll/451018): 4d6t5 1  Not much help, sorry.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-29-16/1624:02>

"Disguise, huh? Well, they don't call ol' Al the Man-of-a-Thousand-Faces fer naught, y'all. Best part is, I don't gotta change nothin' - jist apply my Method artistry an' transform myself inwardly...like so!"

The small man rolled his shoulders a bit, cracked his neck, and stood up a tiny bit straighter. "There ya have it. Wouldn't even know it's me, less'n I willed it..."

He looked at them expectantly, apparently thinking they might try to guess what he had transformed himself into. However, there was no difference to be perceived.

After a pregnant few moments, he gave an exasperated sigh, and blurted out, "Circus ringmaster. C'mon, the posture? The bearin'? Must be cuz she's blind. An' if anyone tips ta the ringmaster persona, I jist switch over ta this..."

He pursed his lips, ran a hand over his hear, and scratched his nose. Took a deep breath. "Right? Right? Total transformation. Looks easy, but that's years of immersion in the Thespian's craft." Then, for Alyce's benefit, assuming she was unable to perceive the change, he explained, "Chimney sweep."

He went inside and grabbed his shotgun. "We leave now, we can stop fer some beers onna way."

 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-29-16/1724:29>

"Uncanny, really. But as good as your posture trick may be, it still won't beat digital facial recognition software. Sunglasses and a scarf would go a long way to take care of that. Also a nice beard never hurts to underscore a striking face."

Isaint nodded and took the wraith poncho from Arthur. A short command and it turned into a stylish black cloak.
He had used the time to change his own face for a more angular look. A short cropped full beard made him look a bit like Che.

"Here Robyn, just in case there is trouble and you need to get out of sight." With that he put the cloak over her shoulders.

With that he followed after Al toward the market.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-29-16/1815:44>

Al shrugged. "Can't see what difference it'll make, but yer the boss. Ixnay on the eardbay, though. Shee-it, next you'll have ol' Al smokin' clove cigarettes."

Concentrating on his circus ringmaster persona, Al never broke character once as he stopped at a couple of kiosks on the their way, picking up a scarf at one and a pair of glasses on the way. There were no sunglasses for sale here in the land of the Molepeople, there being no sun, but AR glasses came in all shapes and sizes, and, all being manufactured out in the productive world, they all had tint features. It looked sort of funny down here, sunglasses, but he didn't want to make Isaint feel bad. And this way he matched Alyce with her own funky eyewear.

After stopping for beers and sandwiches on the way, they arrived at Nightside in plenty of time for a careful approach to the meet.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-29-16/2241:49>

Alyce moves close to Al as they walk.  "Al, you are perfect.  I like your circus ringmaster disguise, but the glasses just give it that extra added bit."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-30-16/0535:07>

"Of course. Good taste. And I s'pose, if'n you say so - fer ol' Al's money it jist makes the whole effect kinda garish."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-30-16/1208:56>

"Are you saying I am kind of garish?  Thank you for the compliment.  You do know how to say the nicest things to a girl."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <10-30-16/1507:28>

While Al and Robyn kept bantering, Isaint's eyes kept roving along their underground way. Once they passed the entrance to the market he had to use his concentration trick to be able to keep his focus. "Eyes on the prize my friends. This is where our troubles really started last time. Let's hope the Flowers are as well behaved as the Old One wants us to believe."

Isaint periodically took a look into the astral - watching out for watchers, spirits and the like. "We are getting close now, if there is a trap waiting, we should be getting attention about now."

#472

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <10-30-16/1517:57>

Robyn has been monitoring the feeds from the four drones she has deployed as well as alternating between her radar and ultrasound sensors and nods at ISaint's words.  "Nothing really suspicious on the feeds.  Would you like me to hook you into my visual net?"  She also reaches down to pat the head of the Hell Hound at her side, trusting her friend to alert of danger.

The market is a cacophony of movement and noise, with local and Overworlder vendors trying to get their share of the money spent here.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <10-31-16/0825:16>

Al was also on high alert for any funny business from the Flowers. He doubted they'd advertise their ambush beforehand, so he figured the best way to spot trouble would be to keep his eyes peeled for hippies. Soon, however, his senses were overpowered by inputs - within scarcely a minute of entering the market he spotted no fewer than nine facial tattoos, enough visible piercings to supply a steel foundry with scrap metal for a week, half a dozen men wearing some sort of cosmetics, seventeen people using what seemed to be drugs (nearly half apparently underage!), four same-sex couples holding hands (one kissing publicly), twenty-three males with hair down below their collars, and literally countless women flagrantly displaying both bralessness and unshaven armpits.

Despairing of picking out the hostile from the merely degenerate, he realized that their clever disguises would prevent any attack anyway, and simply enjoyed smoking as he walked, congratulating himself on is ability to accurately assess the situation even amid such trying environs.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-01-16/0714:52>

Once they had found the shop, Isaint took the lead, entering wary of an ambush.
Finding the emissary between the shelf rows of merchandise proved to be a lot more difficult than expected. <<Lets move methodically through this place and keep an eye open for the sign of our contact. Al you can relax your cunning disguise for a moment so she can recognize you.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-01-16/0848:16>

Unbeknownst even to his boon companions, Al had already shifted from his ringmaster guise to his chimney sweep persona. On their way here, he had been getting a lot of fairly hateful stares from quite a number of Flowers - identified by their thorny-vine inkwork - and knowing it was impossible they recognized him, thought maybe they had a problem with circus folk. Once he'd shifted over, though, the stares had inexplicably continued. He found this odd, since he was doubtful there were in chimneys down here to be swept.

Now, at Isaint's direction, he allowed his true colors to shine, also removing the silly scarf and glasses. He was fairly certain this dwarf girl they were meeting had never seen him, so he wasn't sure what the point was. Probably what Isaint really wanted was for him to lower the veil on his blinding charisma and apex-predator demeanor, and thus attract their mark's attention.

Well, it worked. A short woman - though, as reported, tall for her gender and metatype - caught his eye briefly. She bore the characteristic tats of her House, wore her hair in long, tatty dreadlocks, and was placing various plants and herbs into a wicker shopping basket. Her features were sharper than many of her metatype, though she had a rather pronounced brow, and a heavy charcoal effect around her eyes made them appear to recede even further beneath it. She had full, bee-stung lips, and her delicately pointed ears were festooned with ceramic ornaments in the shape and likeness of various brightly colored blossoms.

After her fleeting eye contact, she resumed her shopping. Al did his best to seem interested in the shop's tree-hugging wares, and eventually the girl made her way out a rear entrance. Waiting a good two minutes, Al led the way out after her.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-01-16/0944:50>

Robyn notes the change in Al's gait and posture as he changes personas once and then as he drops his disguise at ISaint's request.  As directed, she takes one of the wicker shopping baskets and walks the aisles, using one of her drones to scan the items available and the rest to scan for their contact.  Robyn is not unknown in Below and some of the other shoppers stop to greet her and exchange bits of small talk as she puts a couple of things in her basket to purchase if they get a chance.  She is interrupted in her shopping when one of the drones spies Cara in another aisle.  She is about to say something to the others when they get Al's message and she heads in the direction of the rear entrance, stopping to pay for her purchases before exiting the shop.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-01-16/1420:06>

Isaint was content to let the other two rove through the shop, while he kept an eye on the exit and the other open for trouble. To do this without being to obvious about it, he took one of the little hand mirrors that the shop described as "divination aids" and used it to glance over his shoulder while appearing to admire the cheap piece of mass-produced trash.

As expected, his team-mates flushed out the dwarf girl, so he let her pass through, but not without flicking a little stealth tag into her bag.

[spoiler]
Palming Edge Reroll (http://orokos.com/roll/452155): 12d6t5 [12d6t5=4, 4, 5, 3, 1, 4, 5, 5, 5, 4, 6, 2]
Damn, zero successes on the first throw. I'm spending a point of edge
[/spoiler]

<<Don't start to storm out after her, I tagged her, so keep doing what you do. We can follow her at our leisure.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-01-16/1956:03>

Two minutes later when Al went out the back of the underkingdom pot-shop, young Cara was nowhere to be seen. But there was really only one way forward down the narrow back lane, and at the first intersection a glance down each passageway quickly turned her up, just at the edge of his line of sight, examining mushrooms at a small stand. He stopped, she kept shopping, and then she moved on. He waited, letting her get out of sight. At the edge of his vision there was an alert ping insistently offering him a map overlay with the location of Isaint's tag, but he shut it off in annoyance. The ork would be happy to keep track of it himself.

Al waited for one of his teammates to leapfrog him before himself heading in the direction the dwarf girl had gone.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-02-16/0021:52>

Robyn sets ISaint's tag feed on her overlay and smiles as she heads out the rear after Al.  The passageway is quite narrow and she squeezes past Al; a feat even more difficult for her hound.  She does not need to stay close behind the girl as she sends one of her drones flitting after her.  Her radar and ultrasound sensors assist in keeping Cara located on her overlay of this section of the Market, and she "follows" by turning into a slightly wider passageway between shops and then paralleling the other woman's progress.  She links her feeds to ISaint's 'link so he can see what she sees, but keeps Al appraised by voice since she knows he will not accept the feeds.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-02-16/0551:09>

Isaint let Robyn monitor where their contact went while he continued to watch out for threats. Now came the really dangerous part: A meeting with the emissary at a secluded place of her choice.

The underground nature of the Night Market gave a plethora of options for this: Without regulatory oversight the denizens had build their stalls and shops not only adjacent to existing structures but also above, behind and in some cases below other existing dwellings. Having a straight piece of street was the exception, dead ends prevailed and also unofficial back alleys, walled gardens (for a lack of a better word), cat walks and impromptu underpasses.

It was therefore no big surprise when her signal turned suddenly a hard right and entered a nondescript building in a connecting alley. The team reached that same door a minute later. It was unlocked and after a short, dark corridor opened up into what Al certainly would have described as a hippy paradise:

Rows upon rows Marijuana plants - at least Isaint thought it was Marijuana - stood under daylight lamps, while an automated drip feed and a host of drones cared for them. In the midst of this, the dwarf girl stood and looked expectantly towards them:

"Took you long enough..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-02-16/0827:49>

Al's back still hurt, and he was in no mood for lip from a halfer hippie hemp-dealer. "Heya toots, yer the one warned us ta watch our step in these parts, an' it's your privacy we's aimin' ta pertect. Besides, since yer girlfriend's genius chummer shot ol' Al inna back at our last meet, which I dare add was set up at an absolutely inspired locale, reckoned a modicum o' caution might be in order. So if yer serious about gittin' hitched ta yer Iron Ork ladypal, you can start by watchin' the sass."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-02-16/0931:30>

"True enough, my apologies!  Strangers make me nervous, and they don't come much stranger than Overworlders!

Tamsyn's message said you were going to help us...and something about a concert?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-02-16/1119:40>

Robyn likes the girl already and can feel the hydras on her body responding to the ink on the Flower girl.  After all the years wearing them, she is used to the way it feels when they move about on her skin, but she can imagine what the casual onlooker might think.  She looks over to ISaint to get the discussion started.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-02-16/1231:03>

Isaint nodded. 'Better to get that over with quickly'
"We are doing a favor for the Old One. Uniting the two houses through a wedding, stabilizing your underground dominions.
I probably don't have to introduce us, but we..." he indicated towards Al and himself, "... were part of the group you house had that little falling out with that resulted in your stupid shock troops causing the death of one of the Harlekinade.

Now, the sensible thing would be to have both your houses do this on their own volition, but obviously down here that is as alien a concept as above.
Our group established a cover as musicians, touring Below, so we could invite people from different houses to the same place without arousing suspicion.
The plan insofar as we were able to make one, sees us holding a concert at a holy place, bringing all the witnesses into the audience and than drop the ceremony as a surprise during the concert. That way the opposition in your houses should be taken by surprise and unable to sabotage the proceedings beforehand.

At the moment we are trying to find such a holy place..."

"Let me stop you right there," the girl interrupted Isaint, "the Flowers have a sacred place for their weddings and it's always on Lyonesse."

"Lyonesse? As in the mystical island from Arthurian Legend? Or the one that rose from the water near Cornwall?"

"Yes, both."

"As far as I know that island is heavily protected by the British military and since it started to glow blue, not even they dare to go there or let anyone else near."

"The flowers don't actually go there - we use the astral gate to travel to its real self."

"So, you hold your ceremonies while astrally projecting at some kind of meta plane?"

"That's so typically overworldlerish. You use fancy words for things you don't understand."

"I just don't hold with mysticism where clear communication is key. And the answer is no. Especially if that astral gate is where I think it is. I lost two team members there and the Harlequins had to slay there bodies after some Shedim took them over."

"Oh, is the big burly overworldler afraid of a little magic?"

"Cute, but I shouldn't be surprised that your house has such customs. It fits with the general death wish theme. The answer is still no. If your girls want to they can arrange for another ceremony afterwards, but that won't be the concern of my chummers and me. We are not leaving our bodies and our gear behind just so we can satisfy your dangerous customs."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-02-16/1323:23>

The dwarf woman pursed her full lips and toyed idly with the ceramic flowers affixed to her ear.

"I would hesitate to question the Old One's wisdom. But I hope someday to ask him why he selected Overworlders for this task. Certainly for us we see the journey to the real Lyoness as no more daunting than you would a stroll to the village steeplehouse for one of your weddings. And I can assure you that the protocols protecting the waiting husks of nuptial celebrants are most sacred and inviolable."

"Yeah, well missy, ol' Al's attachment to his own damn husk - as in, stayin' the hell in it - is pretty well inviolable too. Like the bossman says, no dico on the astralo journeyo."

"I do see your reticence, and putting myself in your shoes I believe I can understand it somewhat. But I hope you did not think to arrange a legally viable union between star-crossed lovers from two rival Houses of Below while staying entirely on your preferred playing fields, or by dictating terms to two such tradition-bound institutions. I should think such an expectation naive at best. If your aim is a marriage that will withstand the ex post facto approbation of some very powerful and disgruntled critics from both sides, then you will have to make sure every t is crossed and i dotted. And that, my new friends, will mean holding the ceremony on Lyonesse. Without adhering to these customs, the entire ceremony will be on the shakiest of foundations, vulnerable to annulment proceedings by any number of Flower and Iron House powers."

After a brief pause, she softened her expression and added, "I do like your concert idea, though."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-03-16/0049:13>

>>Could not Deckard watch over our bodies?  Maybe even Jackhammer and Iris if they recover quickly enough?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-03-16/0523:03>

<<You remember that Nightmare Lord swearing vengeance on us? Also I'm pretty sure that such a high background count would stop Rick and Karasu from being very effective.>>

Isaint replied to the dwarf: "I understand your concern about legal shenanigans, but frankly: Even with a proper wedding they could annul the proceedings by just killing the other's spouse. Leaving them legal options would even improve the two lovebirds chance of survival.
Now if you say the enemies within the house wouldn't dare go that far, they also should consider the fact that hundreds if not thousands of witnesses from Below will see the proceedings. I'm certain that will not be easy to counter - especially if both house heirs proclaim their "I do" obviously from their own free will.
We might even convince the Harlequins to weigh in on that. After all, once the wedding is accepted as fact, undoing it will make whoever tries to undo it very petty in the public eye and inside the courts.

If nothing else we establish here a new tradition: A shot gun wedding with the guns turned towards anybody who dares to object."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-03-16/0918:54>

Al's cybereyes flicked back and forth between the faces of the noble ork shadowrunner and the dwarf hippie-slaver-drug pusher.

One of them would have to give something up.

Or not. Which was his first choice, because then they could tell that old geezer to take a flying leap before leaving the Underdark forever.

But if he knew Isaint, the tusker would figure out some way to get the job done.

Dammit.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-07-16/1052:30>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere near Nightside Market, Below, London]
 

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <11-02-16/1231:03>

"Cute, but I shouldn't be surprised that your house has such customs. It fits with the general death wish theme. The answer is still no. If your girls want to they can arrange for another ceremony afterwards, but that won't be the concern of my chummers and me. We are not leaving our bodies and our gear behind just so we can satisfy your dangerous customs."

Cara smiles gently, “Is it that that you are most afraid of?  That you will be at a disadvantage in Lyonesse?  I don’t know how much you know of the metaplanes, and I suspect you know even less about somewhere as peculiar as Lyonesse and its relationship with Below…but I can assure you that your corporeal bodies will be quite safe while you are there.  Only those who step through the portal with a physical connection appear together on the island, and on the mortal plane their bodies are completely inaccessible to anyone who wasn’t linked at the moment of stepping through…we know there are Shedim Below, do you think anyone would risk an astral journey without protection from their kind?  There is no need for mortal guards, your bodies will literally have stepped out of Time!
 
Furthermore, the form you take on Lyonesse will effectively be a replica of your mortal form…bar some cosmetic changes that happen to fit the metaphor of that place.  The only limitations as I understand it are that you can only take three weapons apiece, and a deck for example is a weapon, even a drone can be represented if you have sufficient emotional attachment to it…three pieces of armour or other equipment…three is a significant number as you are surely aware!  Spells you know, adept gifts, those are unchanged…even the metal that some of you have polluted your bodies with go through unhindered and appear there…
 
If you won’t take my word for it perhaps you could ask your patron for confirmation that what I say is true?”
 
She pauses and the smile grows on her face
 
“A grand Masque…there has not been one in so long…do you think you could persuade the Harliqinade to perform one for our nuptials, such a thing would be the stuff of stories for generations!”
 
***
 
#67
 
 
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-07-16/1130:09>

Robyn smiles.  She is already counting the three weapons and pieces of gear.  She pats the head of her Hell Hound.  "And would my protector be allowed through this portal?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-07-16/1312:22>

"When you go through, do you imagine there is any power above or below that could keep him from following?" There was an admiring smile in Cara's voice. She edged forward in her seat and - cautiously - stretched forth a tentative hand. "May I?"

Robyn spoke a quiet word to her companion and nodded, and a beaming Cara began to stroke the beast's head and neck as she spoke. "No, he would be most welcome there - his journey will likely be easier than any of yours."

Al hadn't been keen on leaving his body behind with a bunch of drug-addled free-lovers, but he wasn't sure he liked the idea of it stepping out of Time (!!!!!) - whatever the hell that even meant - any better.

Still, that was starting to look like the way the wind was blowing.

"Okay toots, let's jist say fer shits an' giggles we's entertainin' the idear o' goin' along with this cockamamie stunt. Reckon that's jist a mite beyond the call o' duty. So I'm wonderin', we do this thing...whatcha gon' do 'bout the lights?"

The hippy girl played dumb, her face a clever facsimile of complete incomprehension. It was all right. He'd anticipated this sort of initial obfuscation.

"The messages, sweet cheeks. Whatcha gon' do 'bout the messages inna lights?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-07-16/1513:31>

Isaint pinched the bridge of his nose where his glasses sat. 'Great. Three and three and three - and all in a theme to match - no wonder the Old One insisted on the three of us getting involved. Motherfragger.'

From the corner of his mouth he said towards Al: "I don't think you should engage her about messages in the light - that is probably something you should ask the Old One about as he is at the top of this pyramid."

To Cara he said:
"I admit that this does somewhat assuage my concerns - the limitations are annoying but workable. We would still be leaving a lot of power behind, but the majority of our group would at least be able to be useful.

If I see this right, you'd have to invite all the houses to the island if we wanted to keep the true purpose a secret. And if I understand this right, this will all have an Arthurian/Morgan Le Fey/Lady of the Lake theme, meaning we'd appear as armor clad knights, Celtic berserkers and enchantresses. 
That would take care of the witnesses, the lovebirds and the holy place.

All we would need than would be the official holy man or woman to officiate the ceremony - unless you think our Shinto priestess would suffice.

Still what you ask of us is monumentally dangerous. And Everything has a price - for this service I have three requests:

1) The slavery ends. No more abduction and addiction games. If you want members get them by paying a salary
2) Active fight against the shadow spirits. It should be self evident why this is necessary. All the more puzzling why the houses haven't done more to clean their domain.
3) Same as the two things I said before only in a much louder voice and with more force. The Flowers are granted a great boon by us their erstwhile enemies. Only when these conditions are met we can be sure not to clash again.

If she can guarantee that, I'll do my best to get you and your beloved one safely to and from Lyonesse for your wedding."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-07-16/1631:23>

Al breathed an immediate sigh of relief and silently congratulated himself on his choice of Isaint as leader. The ork had just created a morally unassailable way to walk away from this ridiculous job and its weird trip to an imaginary island out of time.

Obviously this Cara girl could never make such a promise. Even if she were inclined to do so, which Al doubted, it was miles above her pay grade. If she had even a fraction of the influence needed to make such sweeping and economically disruptive policy changes for her House, then she wouldn't be having to have secret meetings with mercenaries pledged to help her sneak her little wedding past the real powers-that-be.

On the other hand, if anyone tried to tell them they should stick with the job, then they'd have to explain why they wanted to condone the ongoing enslavement of innocents. He didn't doubt that the morally flexible Old One could come of with an elaborate rationalization to that effect, but that didn't mean the more pure-minded Isaint would have to buy it, and if Isaint didn't buy it, then Al would be saying goodbye as well.

Brilliant!

He lit a cigarette and sat back to watch the whole thing fall to pieces.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-08-16/0119:55>

Robyn can tell when Cara reaches for Al and makes a soft clucking noise to calm him.  After all, it would not do the mission much good to have one of the brides cooked and eaten by the Hell Hound.  To her, everything she says makes perfect sense and she does not understand why ISaint seems so determined to throw rocks into the gears to force it to stop.  >>ISaint. why are you making demands that she cannot possible make happen?  Even if she were the head of her House, she could not do as you ask.  What you are asking is tantamount to requesting that the Mafia stop dealing in prostitution or that Ares stop making guns.  Are you trying to make this fail?  If not, can you please be more reasonable?  And you, Al, I can sense from your relaxed attitude that you approve of these demands.  I think that you are both wrong.  There is a reason you have been tasked to do this.  Do you think that going to the Old One and telling him that you tried is going to cut it with him?  Especially when he finds out that making these demands is your attempt at trying?  You are the leader here, but it seems to me that you are forcing a failure or forcing her to promise something that she cannot make happen.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-08-16/0152:36>

<<Robyn, the only reason why I entertained the idea of helping the Flowers was that I want to affect change. Slavery is unacceptable and if I could I would also force the Mafia to stop forced prostitution.
This is a negotiation, by starting with a very heavy demand that can't be fulfilled outright, I'm preparing the ground for a realistic that will be received more positive.
Case in point: II didn't specify when this change is to happen. What I want is a commitment that when she ascends, she'll start a policy change. Once she's married she'll be able to indirectly access the Iron Company's resources. That has to count for something.

Your respect for this house is misplaced: They are rotten as are the philosophies they are built on. It was a direct consequence of there rotten policies that brought them into this situation. Reform is a necessary if painful part of getting better>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-08-16/0238:24>

>>You are a stranger here and you are allowed your opinions and they do not need to agree with mine.  We will just have to agree to disagree, but I am not sure that your previous experience here has not colored your outlook in some way.  You seem far more against these people than you do the various sources of suffering in the Overworld and I do not hear much about changing any of the multinationals or the major crime syndicates to make life better for the many more people they oppress than the relative few down here in Below.  I have lived in both worlds for only thirty years and do not claim to know everything about either Below or the Overworld, but while I will agree that there are some truly horrible people down here, there are even more up there who are far worse.  I am sorry that we disagree so much and will try to not raise the issue again.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-08-16/0549:05>

<<Your argument is fallacious. Just because I can't help everyone I'm supposed to help no-one? This has nothing to do with above or below but with right or wrong.
Slavery is evil - there is no two ways to see it. If I have a chance to lessen that evil I take it.
Besides if there is no pain to my request, we'd reward the Flowers for persevering with their policies.>>
Isaint replied.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-08-16/0734:05>

When the hippy girl opened her mouth to speak, she closed it again almost immediately, perhaps having sensed that she did not have the full attention of Isaint and Robyn.

For his part, Al was furtively skimming the messages scrolling across the screen of his commlink, holding the device out of the girl's sight under the table like an errant schoolboy. He was amused by yet another round in the age-old battle between correct male thinking and incorrect female thinking.

But he was also conscious of the awkward silence, and he was nothing if not mannerly. Offering the slave-trader an apologetic grin, he leaned forward and whispered, "Tax issues. Ya jist never know when they'll come up." He gave a what-can-you-do shrug, then said, "Hey, yer some kinda healer-type, right? I got somethin' wrong with my finger here...there, see that?...no, no, be careul, don't pull it..." and a long, rolling thunder of flatulence erupted into the room.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-08-16/0753:55>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere near Nightside Market, Below, London]

Cara drew herself up to her rather inconsiderable height, looking both amused and more than a little insulted

“Slavery?  I assure you that House Laésal does not practice slavery!  I concede that there are those who would argue that some of the herbs and poultices that we supply to the denizens of Below have addictive properties but we do not force them on anyone!  There are other Houses with different scruples no doubt but surely you cannot expect me to influence them?

I do not know the full story of your interactions with the Maiden but I know you ran afoul of her and she paid the price for her misjudgement and pride.  Although it was within her gift it was irresponsible of her to pronounce a Bane on you, a sanction that should only be employed in the direst of circumstance, and I apologise on behalf of my House. 

You know that it has been lifted otherwise you would not be walking Below.  Know that she has been removed from her position, and I am told that in her shame she took her own life.  It was a sad day for us, it has given the die hards of our House the excuse they needed to further marginalise the non-elves.  That is partly why my alliance with the Iron Company is so important, to redress the imbalances that threaten the stability of my House and Below.

As to your second point, Tamsyn told me what happened at the Gardens…I’m not sure it was a location I would have chosen for a meeting but my love is braver than I!  There are many shadows in Below, literal and metaphysical…my house is not a violent one in general and we are not ideally suited for hunting such creatures, but the Iron Company do combat them when they reveal themselves and I am sure Tamsyn could influence a more proactive approach.

Is this enough for you or do you need to wring further concessions from me and my House?  I assume as Agents of the Old One he is recompensing you for your efforts in this matter but is there ought I can offer to sweeten the deal?”


***

#68

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-08-16/0925:10>

"I am talking about using magic to compel a young girl to leave her family and to join the Flowers. The Maiden said she recognized a kindred spirit and wanted to make a ward of house Laésal of her - against her will. Hence why I am talking about slavery, abduction and addiction. This is the practice I can not tolerate and that ultimately led to this... situation. And according to what your herbalists said to Al, this wasn't the first time either.

There are enough people who willingly become a slave to substance use and abuse - no need to force anyone else into that lifestyle.

And no, these are my only requests. I'm not interested in gestures of dominance or subjugation."

Isaint turned to Al:
"Seriously? I met some foul things in my live, but that... even the plants over there are looking sick now."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-08-16/0941:54>

Al laughed heartily. "Jist a little aromatherapy ta keep folks' minds on they work," he answered. "Too much passin' notes in class. Needed ta do somethin' ta cut the damned funny-weed smell in here, anyways. Al ain't inta all this reefer madness, baby."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-08-16/0944:14>

Robyn holds her tongue and her internal keyboard.  In her opinion, ISaint is fixated on putting blame on an entire House for the actions of a few and nothing she says is likely to change his opinion.  She nods and smiles at Cara, but lets ISaint do the team talking.  After all, The Old One has set these two and Jackhammer on the mission, not her.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-08-16/1553:02>

Working hard to ignore the unshaven little cretin's juvenile display - but nose nonetheless wrinkling involuntarily - the dwarf girl bowed slightly to Isaint and added a respectful nod to Robyn as well. Speaking to the two adults at the table, she said, "Then we are in agreement. All that remains are the details. How soon can you arrange this concert? We will help as we can, but we are closely watched, and our participation in the preparations will perforce be limited."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <11-09-16/0200:33>

Being back at Robyn's was a blessing. If he was physically well, his mind was hurt. Not only Deckard was feeling responsible for Isis and Jackhammer's states as he had left them behind to help the others, but what he witnessed in the gardens had been eating at his own sanity. He knew he needed to recuperate and get his mind to refocus on the task at hand.

It was a hard time though - he had seen her - his wife. A brief vision, during the fight. He had been able to block it out, knowing too well the Shadow spirits were trying to wreck havoc on everyone's brain. But now that the fight was over it seemed the moment was burnt in his memory. He had seek for so long to get in touch with his wife's spirit, this even brought hi to study the art of Channeling. He had traveled to Metaplanes to gain clues to how and where he could find her soul. Nothing had led to Below. Yet here he was. With his knowledge of the Paranormal, he was ready to dismiss the sight of his wife for an illusion from the Shadow Spirits, but what she said is really what was tormenting him now... 

When Isaint didn't included him for the next meeting, he took no offense, on the contrary. It would give him the time he needed... to bring his mind somewhere else, focus on his art, on what he was good at, and most importantly on what he knew would certainly be a great asset for the whole team. More danger laid ahead of them...

[spoiler]Sorry for the disappearance again. Deckard will use the time to finish the temporary Lodge he had plenty of time to start the day before, and bind spirits to open up options for later. Rolls coming soon[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-09-16/0311:11>

"We will probably need at least a week to set things up and to send invitations.
If I understand you correctly, we are now up for a masquerade ball instead of a pure concert. Which does work for me as well. We need to send out invitations after we get the o.k. from whoever in your house can authorize the use of Lyonesse for an outing.

We still need to find the holy man/woman to officiate the wedding, I'm still open for suggestions.

Also, we will set up a contract for you and your soon to be spouse, detailing the bits about stopping abductions and fighting shadows. I expect you both to incorporate that into your vows for each other - you can pretty it up with words like justice and peace and the common good. Once you are in power I hope you'll remember them.

Finally I've got still some shopping to do so we can do that whole three by three thing."

Isaint composed a mental message while he waited for an answer:
<<Alright team, your fearless leader has once again been taken in by a woman. I just agreed to hold the wedding on a foreign and possibly hostile metaplane themed after Arthurian legend. I really won't hold it against you if you prefer not to go there. If necessary, I'm ready to bear that decision alone but welcome any one of you who wants to stand by my side.
On the plus side this concession might cause change in Below for the better. So it hopefully will be worth it.
Another plus: We won't have to content with another lecture about hats from the holies. So there is that at least.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-09-16/0830:22>

Al read Isaint's text on his commlink, then simply looked at the ork and rolled his eyes, his facial expression making clear what he thought of the won't-blame-you-if-you-chicken-out-but-anyway-I'm-going-alone drama.

He'd given up on his co-workers once.

He never would again.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-09-16/0912:08>

Isaint winked at Al and squeezed the small guy's shoulder in a friendly painful manner saying "I didn't expect anything less of you".

#483

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-09-16/1022:04>

Robyn looks at the other two.  "I do not know if I can get Jackhammer ready in a week.  I am a surgeon, not a psychiatrist, and do not have a good feel for how badly he is damaged.  I will also point out that we left the overworld in a bit of a hurry and under a cloud.  There may be consequences of that waiting for us up there, so do we want to take the chance?"  She goes quiet for a moment and shivers uncontrollably, reliving some of the horrors perpetrated on her body and mind.  There is a physician here that put my mind back together from where it had gone as a defense against going completely insane during the time I was being tortured and.........and basically being dismantled over and over again.  She managed to salvage my sanity and she can do the same for Jackhammer and Iris.  I had hesitated to mention her before, because.....well, because you both seem a bit down on the people here.  And mostly because I know there are certain stigma against people who have been judged insane and did not want you to see that in me."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-09-16/1303:34>

"Criminy, woman, crazy's a resume-topper in this damned perfession. Own it! An' as fer the good citizens o' Below, like I been patiently tryin' ta tell ya, jist cuz as a group they's predominantly evil an' degenerate, it ain't impossible there's one or two individuals what's perfectly civilized an' trustworthy down here. If ya know someone'll take good care o' Jackhammer an' Iris, then I say we lay a heap-load o' cash on 'em an' say thank ye in advance."

He reached down and scratched his crotch, then continued, "Trouble is, rasta-geezer said our giant ork friend's supposed to be in on this little hootenanny as the third dude. Or it won't count or somethin'. Any way around that?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-09-16/1508:02>

"Some of these days we have to talk about that kind of disassociation you have with the people you are defending and who at the same time were responsible for torturing you.

Good point on the overworld. I wanted to check with my contacts anyway to see how things stand in that regard. A costume change and a different exit should probably be enough, but you never know.

And no complaints from me if you know a capable soul-plumber.

About Jackhammer: I'd say this is a clear case of getting a doctor's note that you can't take part in sports because a nightmare ate your sanity. Robyn should probably get the o.k. from her mentor on that and ask if we may replace the big fellow with an other volunteer.
I guess, as long as it's three people from our group this should be no problem - after all the guy knew about that number three thing of Lyonesse."
Isaint replied.

#484

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <11-09-16/1725:43>

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <11-09-16/0311:11>

Isaint composed a mental message while he waited for an answer:
<<Alright team, your fearless leader has once again been taken in by a woman. I just agreed to hold the wedding on a foreign and possibly hostile metaplane themed after Arthurian legend. I really won't hold it against you if you prefer not to go there. If necessary, I'm ready to bear that decision alone but welcome any one of you who wants to stand by my side.
On the plus side this concession might cause change in Below for the better. So it hopefully will be worth it.
Another plus: We won't have to content with another lecture about hats from the holies. So there is that at least.>>

Sitting in a meditative stance in the center of his makeshift Magical Lodge in the middle of Robyn's leaving room, Deckard had set his commlink on Voice transcript, to be left aware of any incoming news from the trio meeting one of the principle. He started to listen to Isaint's message undisturbed but when the mention of Metaplane arised, one of his eye opened wide, followed shortly by the second one as excitement grew inside him, and did totally ruin his meditation.

He rushed up to grab on his commlink, lookibg to get more details on the 'trip'. As an Initiate in the Mystical Art, Deckard had learn to enlight his soul and travel to Metaplanes. A hard process very few Magiciens could actually attempt. But it was a demanding task and the 'Dweller', guardian of the Planes, was always difficult to deal with. The only way for everyone to be able to travel to a Metaplane, would be through an Astral Gateway, created by a powerful Great SPirit fromn the Lyonesse Plane. Or an Astral Rift that would be hidden somewhere Below. In both cases, a blessing for any Mage of his caliber to ever have a chance to experience this.
<< Are you saying the Flowers know of the location of an Astral Rift? and they would be willing to let us all us it? You know what we'll find behind can be extremely foreign for any of us. Holy shit, that's pretty awesome. Lyonesse's plane...  Who'se coming? I'm not sure you guys MUST bring Jack, but if needs be and is allowed, I can replace him. It's not like I need to come back to the surface for a while anyway...

... don't answer... you guys are planning to get back to the surface first, ain't you...?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-09-16/1743:03>

Despite the last sentence, Isaint replied:
<<Oh you are awake, good. Yes, as far as I know it's a permanent Astral Rift. Al, Jackhammer and I encountered part of it during our first visit down here - at least I think it was part of it. We saw the spirits of a Roman legion crossing.
And it seems as if the Flowers use that meta plane rather often for their ceremonies and even invite guests there.
Glad to here that you are up for that part of the quest.

We aren't heading up just yet - first we need to know if the manhunt is still ongoing. So relax, we'll be back soon.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-09-16/1858:40>

Al stood up from the table.

While he rarely concerned himself with trivial niceties like operational security, he wasn't thrilled to be doing so much talking in front of the slaver girl. Or pure-as-the-driven-snow, unknowing daughter of the secretly-slaver clan. Or whatever her drug-pushing self was.

"Well," he said, looking around and chuckling dismissively at the wealth of wacky-tabacky festooning the room, "Can't say it's been a pleasure. But seems we got stuff ta do, an' you got stuff ta do. So what say ya jist say yes ta ever'thin', then you can all swap digits an' we can each of us be on our merry ways?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-10-16/0211:24>

Robyn has trouble putting a sentence together in her mind, crowded as it is with memories of what she had barely lived through and the aftermath.  She turns slightly, hoping the others do not see the tears flowing from her sightless eyes.  Her knees get a bit weak and she puts a hand out to steady herself against the wall of the shop.  She mumbles a few words that come across as something like, "Yes.  You are right.  I am a bit fragged up; maybe a lot fragged up.  I need some air."  She steps out of the shop and puts her back against the outer wall, wrapping her arms about herself as if they are necessary to hold herself together in one piece.  Once again, she sees the woman's face smiling with an insane joy as she raises a hammer and brings it down again and again, eliciting a small cry from the present day Robyn at the memory that her mutated brain will never let her forget.  Slowly, she sinks to the floor of the Market, finally realizing that she will never truly be well again, not seeming to notice the occasional passer-by that steps past her on their way to and from other shops in the Market.  The memories flood in again and she is temporarily lost in a place and time that has its claws so deep in her psyche that she is in danger of not coming back.  The huge Hell Hound takes up a protective position next to his mistress, providing a barrier from the few people that might have otherwise been curious about the rather pretty Elf sitting on the ground who seems to be swaying back and forth, lips moving in soundless words, one hand caught in the ebon fur of the hound sitting patiently next to her and the other wrapped around a clumsily carved wooden figure on a chain about her neck.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-10-16/0835:52>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere near Nightside Market, Below, London]

Despite her state Robyn’s extraordinary senses and Al2’s pricked up ears alert her to the figure that is standing suddenly over her…the ultrasound picking out the details of the skin tight suit over the lithe body and the immobile mask with the single tear dripping down… Satire the murder clown… she doesn’t speak, just gestures ~come~


***

#69

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-10-16/0953:33>

Robyn pulls her sanity and what is left of her mind together and manages to stand while pushing the horrible memories away.  >>I have one of the Harliquinade with me outside the shop.  I am being motioned to follow.  Should I leave alone or do you wish to come with?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-10-16/1147:17>

<<Wait a second, we are wrapping up here anyway.>>

"Alright, seems like this isn't as secure a place for a meeting as we thought. Time for us to go and for you probably to use the back exit. If we need to contact you we'll leave a Data chip in the third plant's pot. You can use your spirit messenger.
Remember, we need the official agreement from your house for that masquerade/concert - if anyone found out, that's why we were meeting.
Also we need that official to conduct the wedding.

Until the next time.

Take care."

Isaint nodded towards Cara and turned to go. He was even more worried about Robyn than before. He didn't know how to treat someone with that kind of trauma correctly: Calling her out on her contradictory statements was damaging to her confidence, but ignoring it just meant that she might break at an even more inopportune moment.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-10-16/1731:18>

Already on his feet, Al simply shouldered his shotgun and followed Isaint out.

As promised, there was a mime outside. Al didn't mind the mimes. They were stand-up folk. For freaks, anyway.

He'd seen this one before a few times, but hell if he could remember what it called itself. They all looked the same with the masks - name didn't matter much - for all he knew they rotated masks on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month.

True to its profession, it didn't speak, but definitely seemed to want them to follow.

So Al trailed along, mindful that any idiot could dress up like a clown, so this could just as well be a killer hippie in disguise....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-11-16/0050:23>

Robyn nods respectfully to the clown and tells her that her companions are inside but coming out shortly.  When ISaint and Al emerge from the building, Robyn has already wiped the tears from her face and looks perfectly normal, or at least as perfectly normal as she can look.  She and the Hell Hound fall in behind the others as they follow the mime.  Robyn deploys her drones to cover their path to the front and rear and another circling above to give her a good sensor feed that she continues to link to ISaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-11-16/0606:02>

Isaint nodded to Satire, falling in step with the others.
"Nice to see you again. I'll never get used to the fact hat you guys never seem to have a problem to find us.
Does your appearance mean your boss is finally back?"
But all he got back was a vague and non-committal shrug. "Yeah, yeah I get it: We'll see it when we see it. Lead the way."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-11-16/1128:38>

[Sunday July 5th, 2076; Somewhere near Nightside Market, Below, London]
 
Perhaps unsurprisingly Satire leads you up through a couple levels of the Market to where you first met Hecate, what seems like an age ago.  Nonchalantly leaning next to the curtained entrance, Requiem greets you with a mocking bow, his death’s head mask grinning from the depths of a black hooded cloak that seems to absorb what little light is around…he gestures you in and Satire precedes you inside…
 
There you find the Harlequinade in various poses of exaggerated rest, all spiralling around the figure of Hecate in the centre.  She turns her three faced mask towards you as you enter, each face momentarily scrutinising you before the central one finally rests on you.  Her triple voice echoes in the chamber, although it seems to be pitched for your ears alone
 
“You twist the Fates around you like kittens tangling wool!  We have seen a great Masque is coming, you will accompany us, this is unprecedented in our time and We are not sure that it is a good precedent but such is Fate, we do not deny the Pattern for that is an exercise in futility.
 
We will perform the fall of Atlantis for the luminaries of Below, it has not been performed in recent times and the lessons of that event need to be remembered.
 
We know that you have other purposes, that is your affair, we do not get involved…”
 
***
 
#70
 
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-11-16/1140:55>

Robyn listens to Hecate and nods.  "Is there any place in your group for my music skills to perform the masterwork?  I am a quick learner and can focus on the music after I get two of our companions to a physician who can heal their minds..  It would be an honor if you would allow my skill to be of use to you, but I would understand if you have no room for me."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-11-16/1219:05>

"There is a role for you, as We said, it is highly unusual for any to join the Harlequinade who has not been initiated in to the Masque, but in this instance it has been dictated by Fate and We are not inclined to argue... your musical gifts can be woven in to the Masque, I will leave you to speak to the Muses to determine how best this might be achieved...for your companions, We cannot yet see what form their roles will take, just that they will be there..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-11-16/1251:35>

Al's hands shot up in a don't-shoot gesture.

"An' jist bein' there'll be role enough fer ol' Al, thank ye kindly."

In point of fact, Al knew that his Thespian skill transcended those of any mime present, but the thought of prancing about on a stage in a clown costume filled him with greater fear and loathing than all the hippy-demons of Below.

He silently congratulated himself on his impeccable discernent in choosing the roles he would play.

He nodded a greeting of acknowledgment to Requiem, then nudged Isaint and whispered, "Let's beat feet afore they try fittin' us fer one o' they kooky masks..."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-11-16/1323:55>

"Fate is funny that way." Isaint replied to Hecate. "Especially since I'm of the "No fate but what you make" persuasion. But we appreciate your company nonetheless.
As for my role - I intend to man the drums once more, as I'm getting slowly into the rhythm of beating things."
He grinned at Al at the aside comment: "Don't worry, I've got my own mask - and yes, time to finally get the shopping ready."


#488

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-12-16/1405:36>

Without looking around, Robyn says, "I will leave you to your shopping, then?  I can meet with the muses and see what my role will be.  If you still intend to go up, I will arrange for Jackhammer and Iris to be treated and we can hope that they will be ready.  It sounds like I will need to do a lot of practicing to mesh with the Harlequinade."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-13-16/0743:45>

"Take care, we'll hopefully be back tomorrow."

After organizing a safe exit to the surface, Isaint went to visit his armor and weapon dealer. It took a while to get a new helmet and the shield with all the specifications, but at least the drones were no problem to purchase.

Another storage area outside of London became their new home and Isaint spent the whole night setting things up. But when he left, his little robot army was crafting away, handling acids, cooling agents and organic solutions.

In about 4 days he would be able to fetch the results.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-14-16/0759:53>

[Sunday July 5th onwards, 2076; Above ground, London]

A tentative reaching out to your contacts suggests that there is still an alert out for a group linked to a non-specific terrorist threat and that it would be wise for you to keep your heads down!  Although it is unlikely that the police are actively involved it is still entirely possible that the security services have your profiles on their radar and London is only surpassed by Manhattan for its ubiquitous surveillance tech!

***

#72

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-14-16/1202:10>

[Saturday July 11th, 2076; Astral Shallow, Below, London]
 
And so you find yourselves back again…one moment you are in a dark cavern lit by whatever artificial means you have on you, and then a step later and you are outside in the late evening air.  It is damp underfoot and the air is heavy and still with a hint of fog rolling across the marsh land.  The mournful sound of bird call carries to you from far away, the only other sounds being the chirr of insects and the ever present sound of lapping water.
 
The Roman road is beside you, built up out of the marsh on compacted stone and gravel, running straight as far as the eye can see away out of London.  Satire, your guide for this misadventure, gestures you up and then is off running.  The rest of the Harlequinade are making their own way to Lyonesse, as are the bride and bride, their unsuspecting families and a host of other dignitaries and assorted onlookers from Below.
 
It takes longer than you’d anticipated, given the size of the cavern you’d entered, but eventually you are standing before a faded dolmen…the granite obelisks stand some three meters tall with the table top slab perched above forming a gigantic doorway.  There are forms carved in to their surface which initially look like Celtic knotwork, but upon closer inspection seem to form something like a stellar map…or perhaps an astral one…
 
Satire makes it clear that you should all join hands before stepping through, and then it is too late for last minute thoughts or regrets…
 
 
[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Lyonesse, Metaplane]
 
After the fog of the shallow the air here is crisp and sweet, without the dampness of Below or any hint of the pervasive pollution that you are used to in the Sixth world, even in the deepest of wildernesses.  It smells like spring and salt and there is dew on the lush grass underfoot.  Clouds scud across the early morning sky which is a rich unnatural blue and despite the cool air you can feel that the sun has more heat in it than you are accustomed too, unfiltered by the crap in the air at home.
 
You are on a rolling ridge overlooking cliffs that soar down to the vibrant sea below you.  The island is big enough that you can’t see the full extents from here but green hills with striking rocky outcrops dominate the landscape.
 
Al
 
All four limbs, check, leather jacket, well it’s here although it doesn’t look like it should, fags…no fucking fags?  What’s this pipe crap all about!?
 
The others seem to have made it through unscathed.  Robyn and that big damn dog with your name look much the same, although she’s got a slightly strange look on her face… Deckard too doesn’t look much changed, but damn, Isaint has come through looking like some sort of Roman soldier boy…!
 
Robyn
 
The first thing that strikes you is the wonderful smell of this place…then you realise what your brain has been screaming at you for the last millisecond or two…you can see it!  No AR interface, radar or sonar overlay…although the information is still there…you can actually see!
 
Deckard
 
A metaplanar journey that seems to bypass the Dweller is definitely something to be recommended!  The uncomfortable truths it spouts might well have upset things somewhat!
 
Isaint
 
Well, it’s almost as you’d anticipated from the clues in the shallows, you look like a Centurion, although it isn’t quite like the museum pieces from back in the real world.  And Al?  He’s come across as the epitome of Celtic barbarian!  Also to be expected no doubt!  Robyn is in a dress but for some reason Satire has managed to retain her skintight body glove…what it is about these murder clowns that allows them to avoid the metaphor of this place might give someone with more time on their hands an interesting thesis…
 
Your weapons appear to have been altered by the metaphor too…they appear to be energy weapons rather than the projectile based ones you walked in here with, although the melee weapons remain the same, albeit far more decorative with beautiful Celtic knotwork adorning them.
 
As you are taking stock a craft flies by overhead…it looks like a cross between a jet fighter and an ornate sailing yacht…heading inland…Satire gestures that you should follow it…!
 
***
 
#73
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-14-16/1752:00>

[Wednesday July 8th, 2076; Robyn's Place, Below, London]
It had taken some serious disguise work on Isaint's part, but he had managed to get out and in again to Below without being detained - despite the fact that he was now actively engaging in the production and delivery of real explosives. 'Your honor, I'm no terrorist, I just happened to get involved in a weird job that made it necessary to transport bio-weapons through a shopping center and producing explosives in a shed.' He had to admit that this probably wouldn't hold water in any court of law. So now he was back underground with his new shiny toys and a 16kilo bag of TNT for Al.
"Fresh from the helpful elves, just don't use it all at once."

Somewhat relieved but tired he enjoyed the relative quiet of Robyn's place. Jackhammer and Iris where with the doctor, Rick was meditating, Robyn was using her contacts to send out the invites for the masquerade and Al was smoking - everything seemed to go according to plan. But for some reason Isaint couldn't relax. He felt as if he was standing beneath a power line, could almost feel the static electricity. Finally he recognized the feeling: This was his patron trying to talk to him while he wasn't fighting for his life. Ironically it was at these moments that he felt his connection get strongest, where he could almost make out words but certainly the intent the dragon slayer tried to convene. Well, there was a way to talk to him - after all he had practiced meditating over the last month not just so he could sit in the cramptastic Lotus position.

So it came that Isaint found Robyn's small cupboard turned of the lights, plugged his ears and shut off all electronic gadgets. For the first few minutes it actually was disorienting. He had been wearing his trode-net nonstop for the last week, had constantly monitored the feeds from his allies, his agents and his drone. Now it was as if a large water faucet had been shut off, revealing the severely eroded state of the pipes. For a moment panic threatened to overcome him - his mind automatically trying to send the command to his trode-net to turn everything back on, but the trodes lay in the other room and there was no response from anything.

Isaint forced himself to breath - in, out, in, out - until his heartbeat normalized again, then became slower and slower. Suddenly the darkness around him seemed to become lighter - or rather he suddenly glimpsed a small light in the distance. For an errant moment he thought someone had unplugged the keyhole, but as he concentrated on the light he realized that it had humanoid shape. He couldn't say if he was moving there or if it was coming closer to him, but it grew closer and in detail:
A large human, easily 4 or more meters tall, glad in an armor from Roman times mixed with medieval and renaissance implements. The figure carried a large sword and  that seemed to belong to the 14th century, while the helmet and shield certainly belonged to a Roman Centurion. And all the time the figure was glowing bright as the sun although Isaint curiously noted that he had no problems looking at him.
'That's because you don't see me with your eyes, Pankratius. Took you long enough to get here.'
'You are reading my mind? Ah never mind, stupid question. Funny, you aren't the first one to say that to me.'
'I am aware of that, being in your mind and memories and all that.'
'Oh right. So I felt like you wanted to talk with me. What is this about?'
'You are mistaken, it is you who wants to talk with me. You have once again taken responsibility for others and despite your best efforts and intentions they have been hurt.'
'Yes. But this time it's different. Jackhammer and Iris are seasoned professionals who knew the risks.'
'Nex, Interfex and Carnifex also knew the risks and you are still blaming yourself for their deaths.'
'No shit. The difference is that I didn't put a bullet between Iris' and Jackhammer's eyes - well technically I put a bullet between Jackhammers shoulder blades, but that was just a capsule round. But, you know, I didn't have to shoot their head off to stop the Shedim inside them from killing me.'
'Yes. You know that it wasn't them, that their spirit had already moved on and that the shadows only used their dead hulls?'
'No i don't know it. They could have just been possessed. The wounds weren't that deep, they could have still been in there and I might have killed them for real instead of just banishing the Shedim.'
'Pankratius, stop. You've been thinking about that day for over five years now. It is time to let go of that moment. It's in the past, there is nothing you can do to change it.'
'Easy for you to say. When you slay something you can be pretty sure if it was a dragon or not.'
'But true nonetheless. This is not about scales or no scales. Although I have to say I disapprove of you getting involved with a drake. Those always work for a dragon and working for a dragon always means that some poor souls are turned into food or worse, turned into monsters. Speaking of which, you recently faced the Nachtmahr, a supremely evil being and it vowed to find you again.'
'Great, thanks for reminding me. With what I have in my mind the thing would have enough ammunition to send me into my own personal hell.'
'Nonsense. The Nachtmahr is powerful, but ultimately it can't do anything lasting to you - at least not as long as you don't allow it to. Your feeling of guilt and regret is your weakness and your strength.'
'This is getting awfully Zen for my taste.'
'Well, than stop interrupting me so I can explain. Secretly you are yearning to be relieved of responsibility for your actions. Getting possessed or infected would be the perfect excuse to follow your impulses without being held responsible. That's how the Nachtmahr could get to you and turn you into a monster.
I've sent you my wrath to shield you from that temptation, but I can't guarantee that I might be able to do so again next time.'
'Thanks for that by the way. It felt amazing to punch those four shadow spirits back to their home dimension.'
'Eh, de nada. While you are awake you are already very good at defending your mind. That guilt won't let you give up or give in while your friends are in danger. That's why it's also your strength. That will help you once you get to Lyonesse. I'm telling you nothing new  if I say that this will be crazy dangerous for you and yours. You really have to learn to say no to women.'
'Very funny. Talking and negotiating is just not my strong suit.'
'And yet you can't seem to shut your trap for longer than a few seconds at a time. Now shut up and listen: I'm teaching you a way to get in contact with me without having to raid a cupboard and sitting in the dark for four hours. Conveniently it will also allow you to postpone sleeping and in case of a severe wound stop you from bleeding out in seconds. You'll also be able to sense every movement around you. That should give you enough time to react should the Nachtmahr decide to pay you a visit.
Ok. You may talk again.'
'Gee, thanks. But... it's just... Are you really real? I mean this is all in my head after all. How do I know that I didn't just go crazy when I killed Nex?'
'First of all, you shot Nex but it was the Shedim who killed her, capice? And secondly... does it matter? I'm looking out for you just as you are looking out for your friends. That's all that counts. So don't fuck this up on Lyonesse. I'm serious: If you get yourself killed there I'm never talking a word with you again.'

Isaint wanted to answer but became aware that his patron was no longer there and he was once again in the small cupboard inside which the air had become really, really stale. Dizzy he reached for the door knob, his joints creaking from the prolonged disuse. He wanted to push open the door but became aware that someone stood just in front of it - how he couldn't say. So instead of  kicking it open, he just opened it slightly to let air and light in.

Rick looked at him curiously: "Did you find what you were looking for? You've been inside there a while."
Isaint smiled as he replied: "Yepp, long distance call and a bit of sensory deprivation to master a new skill..."


[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Lyonesse, Metaplane]

Isaint marveled at his outfit - it was almost exactly a replica of what his patron had worn, except that he didn't carry a sword but his cestus instead. His Ruthenium Polymer Cloak had turned into a commanders mantle, still able to turn it's wearer invisible. The new helmet also had kept his abilities, including the chemical seal, although that one seemed to just be some kind of shadow covering his whole face, turning him into a truly faceless soldier. Gems all along the edges of his shield glittered merrily, ready to turn into a stroboscope display at his command.   
Satisfied that his gear had come with him as promised he turned to his companions:
"If I had known you could bring a freaking GMC Banshee VTOL in here, I might have forgone my cloak, no matter how spiffy it looks now. Alright, let's move or we'll be to late for our own show."


#490

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-14-16/1950:16>

Blue.

Fucking blue.

Far more interested in his own appearance than that of his companions (not because he was self-centered, just because he was more interesting), he had looked down at himself to find a dense scrollwork of geometric patterns covering every inch of his flesh - and all blue. The blue lines were so damned thick it looked as though he was just fucking blue all over. He held up his link and looked at himself. Yup. Whole face a swirl of damned blue lines. Whipping off the leathern cloak that his pa's jacket had become (he could see the spot where that stupid ork "warrior" girl had shot him in the back, so he knew it was still the same jacket), he reached over his shoulder and snapped an image of his back - they were still there, all three of them, thank the voodoo gods. They were fucking blue now and had lost all their texturing, since his scars were gone, but they were still there.

And certainly well enough on display. Aside from the jacket/cloak, he had some sort of leathern loin cloth thing on - looked like a damned miniskirt - and nothing else. The bags at his hips, straps criss-crossing his chest, covered more than the damned skirt. And yup, sure enough, the Elephant was swinging free down there.

Ridiculous pipe clamped between his teeth - the leaf burning in the bowl somehow tasted just like Lucky Strikes - he hefted what had been his Remington. But this oddity was nothing at all like his own weapon. In stark contrast to the boiled leather crap adorning his blue body, this thing was all matte black resin composites and digital bells & whistles. But it had a business end and a trigger, so he pointed it at a boulder thirty yards away and damned he was wasn't carrying a bloody ray gun. Blew the boulder to bits under a burst of lime-green bolts. He'd have to look at the thing more closely when he had a chance, see if he could turn the bolts blue to match his new look.

Well, it was a good thing for his state of mind he'd taken the past week to rest his poor mind from the travails of hippie immersion he'd experienced being back in Below. He'd lit out with Isaint and they parted ways, seeing each other again since only once, when Al had descended mid-week to touch base with everyone.

He'd spent the rest of the time in as much sunlight as possible. He had his dog to look after, and the cars he was working on. But mostly, he knew, he was avoiding a week with Robyn - and Isaint - and Rick - at her place. Alone, but not alone. Was he just looking for the right environment in which to try getting reacquainted? Or was he trying to avoid getting reacquainted altogether?

Still hot, he'd come out in the LCZ and then called his Outrider remotely. River traffic was a lot easier on the dog-brain than the road would have been for the Bulldog (now that the Beamer was toast), and registrations weren't watched as closely, and cameras actually easier to duck if you knew what you were doing. Before long the sleek boat was there to pick him up. He stayed in the small cabin until they were out of the city, and then messed around a bit to make double sure no one unwelcome tailed him to his new hideaway. On the way, he'd arranged for Horace to burn both his IDs - a good forensics team would be able to tie the Beamer to both - and start the order for two more.

Then he'd set to work on the two cars that had occupied so much of his time since he'd moved into his now place by the river. That - along with a hell of a lot of beer - had been therapeutic in dealing with the twin trials of hippie exposure and Alyce re-exposure. Oh, and fighting to the death with mercs and beating off a pack of demons. But that was the small stuff.

And now it was all small stuff - he felt like he was here, but in fact, it had been explained to him again, his actual body was out of time. Well it had damned well better find its precious way back into time when he was ready for it, which couldn't be soon enough.

"Whole damned business openin' doors in ol' Al's mind, baby," Al said to Alyce, who turned to look at him. Or whatever she did instead of seeing but that always seemed to work just as...no...and that weird smile on her face...was she...? She nodded excitedly and he couldn't help feeling excited for her. He knew she no longer needed her sight. Hell, he wasn't even sure if she'd be willing to take it back if she could, at this point. He just didn't know the answer to that question. But to have the sense back, after all these decades, well, it had to be...something...to her. If only in this moment.

It made him kind of want to hug her or something, but they were working, dammit. And for all he knew, if they touched in this place they might explode or something. Or their out of time bodies might. So he gave her a wink and shouldered his new ray gun before taking off after Isaint.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-15-16/0939:10>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Lyonesse, Metaplane]
 
Leaving the dolmen behind you, you make your way after the skyrunner, down into the lush valley below.  A stream bubbles over a rocky bed and dragonflies flit across the bright reflected rays of the sun…except they probably aren’t dragonflies, upon closer inspection they look like tiny fragging pixies!
 
A wordless roar fills Isaint’s mind moments before the sun is blotted out briefly above you and the immense downdraft of giant wings staggers you… as the dragon flies over you are momentarily blinded by the sun on its silver and brass scales.  Flying in close formation are two drakes…
 
<<The Loremaster has come, Celedyr is here for the Masque, The Fates dance to your tune now>> comes the AR message from Satire…
 
***
 
#74
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-15-16/1004:27>

"Holy...." for once, Al was speechless. He wouldn't have been more surprised if Santa Claus had shown up. Seems they'd picked one hell of an event to stage their little shindig at.

Well, what, a lizard right? Could fly. Owned corps. Did brain research or something. Magical. But basically a lizard putting on airs of sentience. God had created man to subject the earth and all its creatures, and this was just lizard. An animal with bells and whistles. And he figured it was here as a spectator anyway, nothing to do with them.

Still, he took a good look at the drakes, checking to see if he knew one of them....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-15-16/1015:09>

"You motherf..." a host of obscene expletives in four different languages - one of them dead - escaped Isaint's mouth before he could get a grip on himself.
"I can't believe they invited a dragon to our show. This has gone entirely to far - actually it has gone so far that it crossed the point where it went to far twice...

Sorry, sorry, I'm calm again. It's just... those arrogant, stupid, scum sucking, pea-brained MOTHERFRAGGERS really have called in Celedyr to this show, a freaking Great Dragon... and they couldn't have told us that before? Diese verdammten, hohlbirnigen, wichsgriffligen Töchter einer syphelitischen Hure..."

When Isaint had really calmed down (it took only two more outbursts) they had almost reached the halfway point of their journey. He still felt that incoherent and not at all rational rage bubbling inside him.
"For your information, I'm not amused about this turn of events."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-15-16/1119:57>

Robyn is speechless as she crosses the barrier.  It has been over forty years since a maniacal Yakuza lieutenant had sent a bullet into her brain and taken away from her the ability to see.  Certainly, she uses drones and her implanted sensors to "see" what is around her, but nothing is the same as being able to actually look out and see it with functioning eyes.  Her mind has captured every memory of what she had seen before the shooting, but those are all in the past.  And this is the present.  Her very first action is to turn to face Al.  Dear, lovely, glorious Al.  If this sight goes away soon, she wants to have stored in her memory what he looks like.  Her fingers have already mapped his face and torso, but she wants to see him with her eyes.  She removes her glasses, revealing bright blue eyes rather than the dead white ones he has seen in the past.  He smiles at her and winks before walking off behind ISaint, who she finally spares some time for.  The entire Roman centurion thing he has going on totally suits him, she thinks, as she picks up her cello and follows along. 

Her attention is understandable focused on Al's butt, but she spares the time to really LOOK at the things around her.  The sun, the grass, even the rocks on the path, have new meaning now.  A new vibrancy that she had thought lost forever.  She has been informed many times that no surgery possible will ever allow her to reclaim her sight and she has grown to accept that.............but now.  For now she can see.  Part of her would stay here forever if only for that reason, but the larger part of her would never stay here, even if she could see.  She loves a man with a passion that cannot whither and die and his place is not here.  She would gladly give up the ability to use her eyes again for the chance to be with him.  Even if he does not return her love, she will never stop loving him, but neither will she allow him to just leave without trying to convince him to take her with him. 

Her ruminations are disturbed by the shadow of the flying Great Dragon.  Celedyr!  Amazing!  She cries out in spite of herself.  "Celedyr!  How magnificent!  What you three are about to do will be noted and remembered by a Great Dragon.  Stories will be told for generations of what you accomplish here.  I only hope that my part in this does not embarrass you in any way.  I will do my very best to get the music right."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-15-16/1728:49>

Yup, one of them was eTher. He nudged Isaint's shoulder, nodding towards the serpentine silhouette they were both familiar with. "Told Jackhammer, didn't git 'round ta you...good or bad, lizard-chica did indeed pull the bait an' switch on the family at the service area, jist like I reckoned. So her showin' up might not be all bad."

He figured that since Robyn's eyes worked now, maybe her super-hearing didn't. But whatever.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-16-16/0714:28>

"Yeah, you actually mentioned that to me too. Not that I'm not happy for the boy and his family, but it just goes to show how you really can't trust anything that comes from a drake - or its master for that matter. Using others as pawns is second nature to them, or at least most of them.

And let me tell you: Getting the attention of a Great Dragon is never a good thing. They never do anything with only one purpose. There is always at least one other hidden agenda - if not dozens - they further by one overt act. Our only hope is that we aren't part of one of the more pertinent agendas."

To Robyn he said: "Actually, in my line of work I prefer it when there is no reason for a story to be told. Living in interesting times and all that. Cheering for the majesty of a dragon is like a song bird cheering for the majesty of the cat."


#492

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-16-16/0738:21>

"I'll allow as they's good ta give a wide berth. End o' the day, though, they's jist lizards. They ain't made in God's image. An' they know it. That's half the reason they's always tryin' ta show folks how great they is. They's compensatin', ya ask ol' Al."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <11-16-16/2145:09>

Robyn laughs out loud.  "ISaint, you have no poetry in your soul.  We will just have to agree that neither of us sees things in the same way.  In my opinion, there is no reason for everything one comes upon to be negative in some way.  I have a great faith in the God above us and the voodoo spirits that protect me, and in a love so strong that nothing can possibly sunder it.  I believe in these things with all my heart.  I look at the dragon in wonder and awe and would pen songs that tell of them.  I am as sure in  my beliefs as you are in yours,  and neither of us will be able to change the way the other looks at the world and its miracles and majesty.  I will tell you, though, that I have seen a great deal of death and misery in my long life and none of that has been able to drag me to the place you are in.  I am certainly not saying that you are wrong, only that I feel differently about most of the things we have come upon together,"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-17-16/0606:36>

Isaint opened his mouth and stopped. There were a dozen responses he could say to that and all of them were needlessly hurtful.
'You are blind to the real world...'
'You have been broken and pieced together wrong...'
'The fool that looks at the sky fails to avoid the abyss...'
'You are deluding yourself about your love and who reciprocates...'
'It's easy to be happy if you ignore the suffering of others...'

When he had actually thought about his response for a few seconds he said:
"I was forged by my experiences and the consequences of my decisions. I failed, I sinned, I repented - again and again, but I'm always striving for betterment both of myself and for the life of others.
For that my patron found me as I found him. It's the nature of the scorpion to sting and it's my nature to worry about my friends. It makes me profoundly unhappy that - as it turns out - I'll very likely be powerless to protect you all in case this creature should decide to kill or take one or all of you.

Closing my eyes from that truth might lessen the pain, but I'd rather endure it and walk into danger with my eyes open."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-17-16/0911:42>

"Yeah, an' Confucius say: 'He who crosses bridge before he comes to it must pay toll twice.'"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-20-16/0930:21>

"Alright alright, I get you. We'll burn that bridge when we get to it. Now let's get a move on. The sooner we get there the sooner we can leave again - with or without dragon bite sized pieces missing."
Isaint nodded an upped the pace a bit.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-21-16/1040:06>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Lyonesse, Metaplane]
 
Following the stream it twists round an outcropping and then plunges down a rainbow filled waterfall into a valley that opens before you.  On the far side of the valley you can see stone ramparts and sitting above it a majestic wooden built hall, a great dun rising over the plain.
 
You are in time to see the front doors open and the majestic form of Celedyr disappearing inside, the doors more than ample for his great size.  Well it would seem you are nearing the party palace!
 
***
 
The sun is dipping by the time you have crossed the verdant grasslands at the foot of the castle.  The sound of music and laughter is borne on the light and fragrant winds.  A sentry, dressed in a lesser version of Isaint’s getup, challenges you but upon seeing Satire yells something into the courtyard below and the gates ponderously open to admit you…
 
<We perform at midnight> comes the message from Satire…that leaves you approximately four hours to prepare yourselves…
 
***
 
#75
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-21-16/1130:51>

Isaint nodded at Satire before turning to his chummers:
"Alright, three things to remember for us all:
The people in there are not our friends. Every bit of information you give them is a potential weapon they can use against you at a later date. So be sparingly with what you tell them or at least do it in a way that is ambiguous. This is triply true should you speak to any scaly individuals.

Don't make any promises or commitments here. I'm not sure about this meta plane, but I know that there are some where your word can bind you more thoroughly than if you had signed a contract made by a corporate lawyer - but with comparable costs.

And finally: It's a rumor I heard, but I want to share the warning with you nonetheless: Consuming food or drink might be potentially dangerous. Not because it's poisoned - although that is always a possibility, but because you could gain a permanent connection to this plane by incorporating it's essence into yours. From what I heard this can cause all sorts of problems: From opening you up for direct astral assaults to being unable to leave the plane again.
Yes, it's unlikely that this will be the case here, but better safe than sorry. Staying sober will in any case be the best policy.

Let's do this."

With that Isaint opened the door to allow Robyn, Al and Rick to enter.



#495

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-21-16/1719:49>

"Well," Al chuckled, "You can def'nitely count on ol' Al fer one an' two. Sober's my least fav'rite state, though, so reckon three'll depend on what's on offer."

Thirsty as he was, however, Al had no desire to form any sort of bond with this ridiculous place. He was more than ready to, in Isaint's words, 'do this.'

This, though, was an elusive concept indeed, as he had only the most vague of notions about what was meant to happen here.

So there was going to be a costume party...maybe....he was pretty sure that's what a masque was, but he wouldn't bet a pack of Lucky Strikes on it. Whatever - he was already basically in costume either way. And the clowns would put on a show. A show in which Isaint and Alyce would also perform. And the show was some sort of cover for or excuse to get witnesses at a wedding between the two girls that thought they were lesbians.

So, was the wedding going to be part of the clowns' show? Or would it just happen at the intermission? And what about rasta-spud's injunction that he and Isaint be a part of things? Well, it was them that had initiated doing the wedding as part of all this...was that enough? Or did they have to do anything else besides stop anyone that tried putting the kabosh on the festivities?

It briefly occurred to him to ask, but then it crossed his mind that no one he trusted enough to question (a total of three people in the place) probably knew any more than he did anyway. And if they did, he figured they'd let him know when the time came.

So for now he decided to just concentrate on seeing the sights - wasn't every day he traveled to a metaplane, though it would hopefully be his last.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-24-16/1740:24>

And with that Al walked into an SCA freak's wet dream. Damned mother of all Renaissance fairs. There was a king in courtly robes chatting intimately with some filthy-faced genius he figured was supposed to be the village idiot, and a drake with a mouth bristling with teeth like an afanc on steroids was nibbling on viands with a couple of nubile serving wenches. But aside from the fact that the relationships made no sense, everything looked pretty good. No styrofoam swords here, nosirree, and the players were not mostly fat.

It was hard to miss the king-shit lizard, lolling there on the floor taking up a big chunk of space by one wall, body a mountain and head swaying above the crowd on its tree of a neck. It was chewing on something - probably one of the whole hogs roasting on spits over the central fire pit. Probably.

He didn't see either of the lesbians right away, though the way some folks were carrying on in the straw under the trestle tables, he wasn't sure gender much mattered to any of these freaks. At the far end of the hall a big stage was set up, a velvety scarlet curtain hanging heavily across the proscenium. But the occasional mime ducking in or out from behind it - easy to spot because they were the only ones breaking the dress code - let him know they were busy with their preparations. And sure enough, Parody was heading that way too.

Al figured he'd follow, but was distracted by a busty scullery maid proferring him a tray laden with foaming beverages. "Don't mind if I do, toots," he said. Recalling Isaint's warning, he downed only half of the tankard's contents before leaving it on a table and setting back off in search of his companions. Being blue and mostly naked, however, had rendered him no taller, and unable to see over the crowd he'd completely lost sight of his companions. So he set off in the general direction of the stage, searching for a mime or else more to drink, whichever he found first. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-25-16/0354:58>

Isaint had to force himself to act normally, despite the fact that there was a massive dragon in the room with two drakes at his side. His discomfort was not at all diminished when the Dragon suddenly shrunk and took on the form of a human with bronze toned skin.
Well, there was nothing he could do beside charging him and dying ignominiously.
Instead he headed towards the stage where the mimes were performing already. Robyn still wanted to do her performance despite Alice once again being unable to the vocals. But he couldn't really blame her, this was indeed a once in a lifetime audience. So he would do what he could with the drums. That this would put him at an elevated position, allowing him to see the whole crowd at once was an added perk. Also it would keep him hopefully away from the real shakers and movers here, sparing him the mental fatigue of keeping his mouth shut at the horseshit those people invariably talked.

Isaint dodged the same waitress, from whose tablet Al had taken a drink, and continued through the crowd. 


#496

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-25-16/1203:43>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

The great hall, seemingly bigger on the inside than the outside would suggest, natch, is crowded with upwards of five hundred people, using the loosest description… there are representatives from each of the Great Houses, and many more who’s allegiance is unidentifiable.  Every metatype is represented one way or the other, although elves and humans dominate.  Cliques form and shift apart and generally rivals are mingling in the party atmosphere without any apparent animosity.

The mighty Holies walk in islands of calm amidst the chaos, vaguely disapproving frowns plastered across their faces…but one, who looks more like an itinerant monk, can be seen laughing and joking with Lady deBathyre…there is your officiate!

Robyn blanches at the sight of members of House Valerian and their scantily clad concubines but thankfully her nemesis can’t be seen anywhere in the press…

House of Vitaris and The House of Barimen can be seen gossiping together, never a good sign for those in the know, the two magic cults of Below standing in their own private pools of darkness…

House Laésal are the most prominent force here, as was to be expected…their brightly woven clothes adorned with a multitude of flowers that waft heady scents across the whole hall.  Only the Harlequins outdo them for the riot of colour as the Murder Clowns suddenly burst forth into the throng in a breath-taking display of synchronised acrobatics, their haunting music at odds with the volume of talk…though that is rapidly quelled as people realise that something is about to begin…

***

#76

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <11-28-16/1231:07>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

The Telling is in full swing now and it’s hard not to get caught up in the epic tale…it’s an amazing spectacle with a bewildering array of illusion, AR imagery and virtuoso physicality that make it truly compelling.  Isaint’s steady drum beats counterpoint the wild beats of the Harlequinade whilst Robyn’s haunting cello dips and weaves with the sweet pipes, skirling harps and lamenting horns.  Only Requiem does not perform, a dark and silent figure standing to one side, the sardonic grinning skull tilted to one side…

And then Isaint sees him…one of the Vitaris turns to look up and from the cowled depths the terrifying visage from the Gardens of Dis stares at you across the hall…the voice comes clearly across the noise of the crowd without seeming to be noticed by anyone else

~Thank you Crusader…we will feast well this night~

***

#77

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <11-28-16/1300:06>

Isaint's heart skipped a beat but not his hands. 'I fragging knew it. Stupid, stupid, stupid. And now I'm on a meta plane without most of my toys. Fragging fantastic.'
With a mental flick (time to see if the pseudo matrix of this world actually worked) he composed a message to the team and to the Harlequinade insofar as he had their commcode:
<<The Nightmare is here. He just revealed himself to me as one of the Vitaris. That doesn't actually has to mean that he is one of their numbers - I could have been fooled by an illusion - but he certainly has a presence here in some form and it seems he and his retinue intend to attack the guests.
Which could be a feint - there are after all high powered spell casters among the guests, not to mention a freaking Great Dragon. If anything I expect some possession and or domination shenanigans.
Hopefully this channel is not compromised and the spirit doesn't know I can warn you. As long as I keep playing we should have time to discreetly warn the important and powerful people here - I stress "discreetly". Let's not turn this into a red wedding.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <11-29-16/1746:22>

Al had found a spot where he could see much of the room, and the brides-to-be in particular as they prepared for their moment. He moved over to them.

"Ladies, ya may not recognize me, bein' blue an' all, or else perhaps distracted by this gratuitous display o' my impressive physique, but it's me, Al Guthrie. It's my job ta make sure yer unholy nuptial go forward without a hitch. No pun intended. Long story short, altered appearance notwithstandin', we's met."

The annoyed looks on the women's faces made it clear they knew perfectly well who he was, and Al congratulated himself on the indelible impression he invariably made in the memories of the fairer sex, regardless of their stated preferences.

"Well ol' Al's here ta tell ya, our good friend from yer genius garden meet's done found his way here, an' up to his ol' hippie-demon tricks. So eyes sharp - can't think of anyone better ta mess with than the happy couple. So either of ya notices t'other doin' anythin' peculiar, out o' character-like, then lemme know lickety-split. Reckon I'll be close by."

And with that he faded back into the crowd just far enough to not be 'with' them, but close enough to reach them quickly. Ray-gun slung across his back, he called forth his brass knuckles with a quiet mutter to the voodoo gods.

<<Roger roger, boss kemo sabe. I'm with the girls.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <11-29-16/2323:22>

It had been a long week of studies, incantations and spirit binding. Deckard had tried to learn as much he could on the Lyonesse Metaplane. Robyn had been helpful finding the appropriate Matrix libraries, and he even paid a visit to the House of Whisper. Every day that drew closer to the tri, so was his excitement.
Oh he knew the danger of the Metaplanes, but traveling through an Astral Gate, to a world of mythological importance, was simply any magician dream and hope.

He would go there prepared. Sure he didn't have use for the arsenal ISaint could have access to, but his specialty was Magic, and he was about to step in a Magical world.

****
The first thing Deckard did upon entering this plane was to take a deep breath; the air was fresh and pure, a change from London heavily polluted air and a pleasure following many days spend deep below London, with only artificial light and recycled air to keep one sane.

He then looked at himself. Nothing was drastically amiss, contrary to Centurion ISaint and Barbarian Al. His was still wearing his coat, only the fabric seemed different. Embroidery along its edge created with golden threads and the overall thickness made it fancy. His clothes were replaced with a layered mix of silk, velvet and cotton.

A mental command made a quick connection with the Spirits and elemental he had bound for the occasion and confirmed their ability to exist in this world.

All I need is a staff and I'll fit right in, he spoke out loud to no one in particular.

He had none. However his throwing knives were still readily accessible, but more importantly, he could feel the reassuring weight of his revolver tucked inside his coat. And with it, a presence. The one of his father. With a confident glance, he looked up at the sky to watch the majestic sight .

[spoiler]
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/00/d5/69/00d56987f46151da12dca5b489e9f494.jpg)

This is pretty much what Deckard would be wearing [/spoiler]

*****

Dragons... and how to shatter dreams... oh sure, it was a magnificent sight... Once in a life time hopefully, but with it came the realization everything he was experiencing, witnessing, enjoying, in this world, could just turn to drek in a blink of an eye. Such was the god given gift of the giant lizards. He had been raised in the Shadows; he knew the saying oh too well: Never Deal with a Dragon.

He looked at ISaint. Deckard could tell that he too was upset, even Al's blaze look had somehow diminished. What wrong could happen... really?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-01-16/0247:28>

As the small group approaches the castle, Robyn nods at ISaint's warnings and instructions.  She has decided that the two of them will probably not ever think the same way about things and she can live with that.  She does nod, though, at his warnings as some of them are quite realistic.  >>I understand and will do my best to not give anything away.  I am quite sure that I will know many of those in attendance here and it would be quite rude and out of character for me to not pass trivialities with those I know.  I will not talk of our mission without your permission.<<

The wonders of this place are many and Robyn finds herself almost lost in the majesty as they approach the castle and are granted entrance.  The courtyard and great hall are already crowded as the group enters and makes its way to the stage area.  Robyn's heart skips a beat despite herself when she recognizes several people from House Valerian, but her tormentor is not among them.  As she walks across the marbled floor, she almost feels at home, a feeling that is only increased as she feels the movements of the enchanted tattoos that adorn a good part of her body.  She is a ward of the Seventh House and her markings show that she has the favor and protection of the Earl and she can feel the various hydras move about her face and body in harmonious response to the proximity of the tattoos on others in the crowd.  She has lived here for several months of each year for over thirty years and, as she had told ISaint, knows quite a few of the other guests, some by name only but others as acquaintances.  She is stopped several times by people that greet her and engage in small talk, releasing her from their orbits only after she indicates that she is part of the ceremony and needs to get ready. 

Robyn is surprised by ISaint's message about the spirit, but does nothing more than send a short reply indicating that she has received and understood the message.  As before, there is little that she will be able to do if the spirits attack, so she plans on doing her best to protect the brides.  She has faith in the Old One's judgement and will act in a supporting role, as he has indicated she must.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-01-16/0844:06>

While keeping the beat going, Isaint frantically went through his options. Getting up and charging the bastard wouldn't work - too many people in the way, not to mention trigger happy bodyguards. The spirit wanted to spoil the wedding and feast on the fear - that was dangerous on and in itself. But it would also most certainly stop the proceedings from going through, allowing the detractors to rally and stop it from happening.
A perfect lose-lose situation. They had to somehow spring the trap without revealing the real deal...
'God damnit, it's so crazy it just might work.'

<<Alright folks, we can't have the Nightmare interrupt the ceremony. We'd lose the element of surprise and would give the opposition a chance to stop us.
Our best chance is to create a dummy wedding to goad it into attacking early. And we have only one viable bride left for this.
Rick, I need you to put a mana barrier in the astral around Robyn to block any immediate attack or astral spying.
Once the piece is finished we have to announce her getting married to one of us and start the ceremony. We call the two real brides up as best men or rather best women so they are in place.

There is an old law that says the best man has to marry the bride if the groom doesn't follow through, so all we have to do is step aside at the right moment to get those two married instead. That will narrow the window of opportunity for the Nighmare significantly to spoil our plan.

Al, do you want to do us the honor of leaving Robyn at the Altar?

For all who think this is needlessly complicated, I'm composing this while keeping a bass drum going...>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-01-16/1014:18>

Robyn almost misses a note.........almost.  Countless hours of practice at her craft is the only reason Robyn does not break off her playing at ISaint's idea.  From where she is sitting, she cannot see Al with her eyes, but she knows exactly where he is standing.  She waits a half second then responds.  >>Not too bad an idea.  Are you up to dumping me, Al?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-01-16/1718:50>

Isaint was worried the plan was unnecessarily complicated, but Al was thinking it was just plain just-kill-me-now dangerous...some fates were worse than death, and marriage was one of them. It didn't pay to flirt with disaster here in the land of anything-can-happen and commitments-are-more-binding-than-usual.

Plus, he wasn't sure how this elaborate plan was any different than just suddenly having the two real brides stand up and get married.

But now wasn't the time for debate or argument, and Isaint's plans were usually pretty good...he'd just have to make sure he got the leaving-at-the-altar part right....

<<All inna day's work, compadres.>> His voice was casual, but something told him they were seriously raising the stakes here somehow. <<Gimme two ticks ta fill the girls in, an' we'll head fer the stage.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-02-16/1201:45>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

If Isaint’s communication upset the Murder Clowns from their purpose it is impossible to see…at least at first…then it might just be a trick of the telling but suddenly there are many more weapons apparently required for their performance…and the blades that whistle within microns of their fleet dancing forms aren’t mere theatre props, as seen from the occasional wisps of silken threads that flutter away from one of the performers…

The dance is getting wilder now as the Fall of Thera approaches, more abandon is woven into the tale and the time for the wedding ceremony grows near as the desperation of the doomed residents of Atlantis is unfurled for the enraptured audience…

The Nightmare, Vitaris has disappeared in to the crowd but something about the atmosphere has changed, there is more tension in the air, more than can be accounted for by the excitement of the performance, if anything is going to happen you have a feeling it will be soon…

***

#78

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-02-16/1231:50>

Al got close to the two girls. "Little smoke, little mirrors, my sapphic senoritas soon senoras. Mimes is settin' things up, but we gon' throw the bad guys off they game a bit, make like I'm gittin' hitched ta the cello player..." unfazed by metaplanar travel, great dragons, or imminent attack by malevolent shadows, both girls' eyebrows hit their scalplines at the suggestion of the scruffy little man wedding the knock-out cellist on the stage. "Hey, ol' Al gits his share..." he protested, but with their faces openly incredulous, he stopped their giggles with "Game faces muchachas! Yer gon' be the best, er, the maid of honor, so when I leave 'er at the altar you'll be all lined up an' good ta go. Now stageward!"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-02-16/1520:14>

The tension got to Isaint. He wasn't a drummer with years of experience - just an ork with good sense of timing, great awareness and a good enough head on his shoulders to quickly grab the basics of any given skill.
But now his drumming had started to become faster - mind you just a little bit - but over time it added up: A single bead of sweat had become visible across Robyn's forehead and the mime had begone to blur in their performance. For them it probably was just another challenge, but when Isaint noticed just how fast his drumsticks were moving he had to use all his focus to keep it going without bringing the performance to a catastrophic halt.

He had just managed to reduce the tempo a bit so he could again keep his eye on the people, but now he had lost visual contact to the Nightmare.
'This is complete madness. I'm banging on sheep skins entertaining a dragon while one of the most dangerous shadow spirits I ever met prepares to slaughter the crowd. And for some reason I worry about keeping my beat regular.'

It came as somewhat a relieve when he saw Al approaching the stage with the two brides.
The mimes already started to form the corridor and Isaint finally could allow himself to slow down, only keeping the bass drum going with his feet.

With a mental command he had his cloak change color from blood read to white with an intricate celtic knot design (actually just one knot that his agent had created and multiplied)
With a underhanded fling, he tossed the garment to the nearest mime who - without breaking stride, draped it across Robyn's back and fastened it before she even had finished her play.
<<Best I can do for a veil and wedding dress - at least you have something borrowed. Al will supply the old and blue>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <12-02-16/1705:05>

Deckard grew weary at the tension building up. He could sense it. And as usual ISaint's plan was madness, but as all the plans he had shared with teh Ork, it pretty much work every time. ISaint's issues seemed to indicate it had not always been the case but Deckard would do whatever he can to not go this route today.

He approached Robyn. His communication equipment -commlink, earbuds, subvocal mic, trodes - had taken weird forms, mostly jeweleries of sort. The trodes a thin headband with a crystal in the middle of the top of his forehead. A little girly to his taste but it worked well with the 'Wizard' image. He continued on the 'Channel' ISaint had opened, and that he somehow seemed to be able to hear.

I'm worried of casting spells here. This is a Metaplane, the line between what we define as physical and Astral is fine, here.  I can't guarantee my Mana Barrier will not be visible here and block everyone's view. That and there's many casters here, some quite on edge. A powerful spell cast in the middle of the ceremony could jeopardize this whole ceremony faster than we want to. That said, if you really want me to go for it, I'll start the casting on your signal.

He made space when on of the Mime put the now white cape around Robyn, and continued to observe the crowd. His magically enhanced senses could not find the Nightmare ISaint had noticed, but that wasn't surprising. After all the Vitaris House members were Demon worshipers, Nothing good could really come from them. But no House would benefit from an all out war.  Instead of looking for the Vitaris, he tried to spot the Old One, if he was there, waiting for ISaint's signal in case he would decide to take the chance of a rapid Mayhem.


#90

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-03-16/1433:44>

If Robyn was not a consumate professional, her playing would have been very much affected by what is going on.  As it is, she continues to play her heart out, knowing that every note is perfect and in the right place within the overall drama.  She notices when ISaint provides his cloak and smiles at his comments even while maintaining the near frantic pacing of the music.  She had never, ever dreamed of playing to an audience that included dragons and the experience is almost surreal.  This is likely the most important performance of her long life and she gives it the skill it deserves.

Even with most of her attention focused on the music, part of her is continuously scanning her ultrasound sensor.  Although she can now see with real eyes, she relies more on the sensors out of habit.  Her implanted sensors for hearing and smell alert her that the tension level is rising and she remains very aware of her surroundings.  The huge hound at her feet picks up on his mistress' general feelings and raises its head to look about, ever conscious of the need to protect her.  Robyn takes a few seconds to send a message out.  >>Just in case something goes very wrong here, I would like to tell everyone that I have really enjoyed the experience.  Mostly, at any rate.  You guys are brilliant.  And Al?  I do love you and hope that you remember that......just in case.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-03-16/1717:20>

Right there on the team channel? Couldn't blame her, he supposed. He was who he was.

<<Well, you are a peach, toots, no question. Catch up on all o' that when the job's done. No point defilin' nothin' by airin' it out here on the demon plane.>>

He was mounting the stage now, flanked by the two girls. They walked over to where Alyce was playing. The girls were walking in some sort of peculiar way - apparently they knew some sort of stylized way this was supposed to be done, but Al didn't give a hang about any of that hoi polloi. Long as he did his job by catchin' the king shit demon's eye....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-03-16/2148:25>

At the appropriate moment, Robyn ends her playing with a flourish and sets the cello aside to stand up.  She steps forward to take Al's hand and smiles in spite of the tension and danger.  She knows that it is not the time to say anything squishy or romantic so keeps all of those thoughts safely in her head, but she cannot keep her pulse from picking up a bit as she touches the man.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-04-16/0719:10>

With the last fading note a full second of silence filled the hall before the clapping started. Not like a full concert cheer, but a polite and in parts even enthusiastic acknowledgement of Robyn's superb rendition.
Isaint had stood up from behind the drums and picked up his shield, while the mimes had formed a guard of honor up to the stage. Finally he found a moment to reply to the messages:
<<@Rick: Alright, you know best about this, just be ready to erect a barrier.
@Robyn: My pleasure, but all in all I'd prefer it if none of you would die or get lost. So let's get this show on the road. Steel your mind against the dread powers - don't know if he still has succubi with him, but in any case be prepared for them.
@Al: Remember, we need to stand as witnesses, so even if you leave the altar, you need to stay to watch.>>

With that Isaint did what he had avoided up until now and opened his third eye so he could see the auras of the guests and the wedding party. It wouldn't do if the nightmare replaced their officiator...

[spoiler]
Assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/462361): 8d6t5 1

[/spoiler]

#500

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-05-16/0954:16>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]
 
The Harlequinade begin weaving the tale of the Final Days, the citizens desperation as they realised their impending doom…the wild parties, almost to the point of debauchery, displays of wanton violence, but also joyful concerts and abundant weddings…one such to be recreated by Al and Robyn.
 
Your two witnesses are laughing but their looks turn to consternation as they see a tall figure barrelling towards the stage area with three, what can only be described as henchmen in tow…from his sigil you suspect he is an important representative of the Iron Company…and he doesn’t look best pleased… 
 
***
 
#79
 
 
 
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-05-16/1258:16>

Al muttered at ork-bride from the corner of his mouth, "Quick chica, who is he an' what does he want?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-05-16/1406:13>

'Sure, just what we need now.'
Isaint already was weaving down the steps between the mimes to prevent the bigwig from getting on stage just yet. The massive tower shield didn't hurt in that endeavor.
"Well, good sir. The play hasn't finished yet and the weapons that the Harlequinade uses are quite sharp. For your own protection, I have to ask you not to step any further."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <12-05-16/1947:21>

Well, Deckard was no musician and his help with the whole concert had been limited. Nor was he good at being a groupie, and show the enthusiasm Al could have for the artists. But he official role was Magic security, and with or without imminent magic threat, he was taking his job of security very seriously.

Between Shadow spirits mingling with Demons worshipers, and a Great Dragon with his entourage, without forgetting the possible Necromancers, and other not so recommended Schools of Magic, he was pushing his attention and perceptive focus to its maximum. So when a quartet of soldier looking men came storming toward the stage, Deckard didn't hesitate and came to intercept.

He found himself standing next to ISaint - who gave a clear message of no trespassing with his massive shield. So the Mage simply decided to stand as imposing as he could without looking threatening. He let ISaint do the talking but  the Mana was already flowing inside him, ready to call upon it. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-06-16/0749:00>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

Tamsyn looks worried, whispering “merciful Mother” but it is Cara who responds to Al’s question “It’s Fredryk, her uncle…he must know something is wrong…”

On the floor below Fredryk stares down at Isaint, no mean feat “Get out of my way you son of a cockroach!  That is my niece up there and I intend to fetch her away from this charade.  She will not dishonour the House of Senjak by being part of your circus!”

***

#80

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-06-16/0939:47>

[spoiler]
Using Isaint's Con (Fast Talk) specialization (for the first time) ;D
Fast Talk (http://orokos.com/roll/463211): 11d6t5 3 [11d6t5=5, 3, 2, 2, 4, 3, 6, 4, 5, 1, 1]
Fast Talk (Edge Reroll) (http://orokos.com/roll/463213): 8d6t5 3 [8d6t5=3, 1, 3, 5, 2, 3, 6, 6]

[/spoiler]

Isaint took a deep breath, squaring his shoulders to enhance his already considerable mass while he kept up the stare:
"Your niece is an honored guest in this performance." 'Not to mention "essential"'
"This is holy ground with customs and rites almost as old as magic itself." 'Probably. I mean, who knows?'
"The Loremaster of the Dragons itself is here to see it." 'Not that he necessarily cares that much.'
"Your interruption will not be tolerated" 'At least by me and my chummers.'
"Your trespassing will have utmost regrettable consequences" 'Namely, that you'll ruin our whole plan, making me regret the whole thing.'
"I assure you, your houses' honor will be as good as it was once this has finished." 'After all, calling people cockroaches doesn't show much honor to begin with and your little niece already has committed to this relationship.'

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <12-06-16/1151:23>

Deckard just loved that ISaint's answer to a threat was always another threat. Forget the 'please' and 'thank you' of civilized discussion. He wondered what was the ratio of getting in trouble vs chickening out. Seems like at the end of the day it was a matter of showing who had the biggest balls... but his Centurion friend pretty much nailed it; in other word, if the Dragon don't mind, shut the hell up and go back where you came from. That and yes, we won't allow things to be interrupted.

Deckard mentally and gently placed his invisible Magic hands right in front of the Man chest, pretty much touching but not pressing against. Should the 'Uncle' decide to move a tad further, whether to move through or even get closer to ISaint to regain dominance, he would have to push against what was probably his most powerful Magic Fingers spell ever cast! A subtle but clear message: Don't get any further!

[spoiler]Though only a sustained F4, it was cast with Reagents with 10 successes. So AGI 10 and STR 10.[/spoiler]

As tension grew and something was bound to happen soon, Deckard decided to call upon the Spirit World to bring a spirit inside him. Once again in this world, it didn't know how it would really work, but since his bound spririt had found ways to stay connected to him, he saw no reason the channeling wouldn't work either.

He felt this powerful energy flow through his body, quite different from Mana he usually feels while spellcasting. It was invasive, but controlled and powerful.

[spoiler]
Channel Spirit of Man F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/463294): 20d6t5 6
Channel Spirit of Man F8 Resistance (http://orokos.com/roll/463297): 8d6t5 2
Resist Drain DV4 (http://orokos.com/roll/463299): 15d6t5 3
- 1 stun 4 services
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-06-16/1701:58>

As the faux ceremony (with a real officiator!!!) had opened, Al had taken Robyn's right hand in his left. A sort of giddy electricity had surged up his arm and then split, a thousand volts racing for his loins and five thousand to his heart - no, dammit - some crazy uncharted place in his reptilian complex that released hormonal intoxicants into his system. He didn't dare turn to look at her. Especially not now that she could see properly. So he tightened his grip on the half-tangible brass knuckles encasing the fingers on his right hand to remind himself of the dire nature of the twin dangers he now faced. Knowing trouble was imminent and inevitable, his lips began his quiet call to the voodoo gods while his ears trained themselves on the words of the officiator, alert for anything that sounded remotely final or like a question....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-09-16/0049:30>

Robyn was not prepared for the feeling that coursed through her body at Al's touch, and she somehow feels that he is sharing the feeling.  It is not like they had not touched before, but this...........this is different somehow.  It must be the ceremony and what it would mean to complete it.  She experiences a moment of mind-numbing exultation before she tamps it back down into a corner of her heart.  This is not what Al would want and she is not going to betray him is this manner.  He would never forgive her if she takes advantage of the situation and she spares a moment to send him a private message.  >>Do not worry, Al.  I will wait for you to court me and sweep me off my feet.  I will not trick you into something you are not fully convinced that you want.  I love you too much to do that to you.  Stick with the plan.<<

Her emotions settle back down and she is able to focus part of her attention on the minor confrontation ISaint and Deckard are having with the Iron Company representative.  She parks this off to one part of her mind and turns the rest of her attention outward to sense for other possible interruptions.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-09-16/0749:08>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

Fredryk considers Isaint’s words and almost seems ready to relent…except then he gets a glazed look in his eyes as the air around him seems to darken subtely… he growls, almost an animalistic sound

“I told you to get out of my way!” and then he shouts past you “Tamsyn, your father needs you… Now!”

Tamsyn for her part is clearly torn, and looks desperately to Al and Robyn for their support…

Around the great hall the darkness seems to be spreading in from the edges and the sounds of merriment and enjoyment of the Harlequinade are counterpointed here and there by aggressive raised voices.  With a sudden displacement of air Celedyr returns to his natural form, dwarfing all else in the room.  Beside him the two drakes shed their human form also, Lady deBathyre’s recognisable face being replaced by a silvery dracoform with glittering blue highlights to her scales…

And much to Isaint’s mentor’s audible disgust another dragon has appeared from somewhere…much smaller but only marginally less impressive.  Another Western dragon, this one a very dark grey with almost gunmetal highlights to its sinuous hide…

***

#81

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-09-16/0835:00>

Al shifted to bolster Tamsyn's resolve.

"Steady as she goes, there, Tusker Tam. He'll be yer family long after this here hootenanny's history, but today could be yer one chance to carve things in stone with this here little lady. No pun intended," he added disingenuously to Cara.

Then, startled that this Satanic plane had tricked him into actually encouraging an unnatural union, he added a more pragmatic remark: "Anyway, Ol' Al knows all about loyalty ta yer kin, an' there ain't no faultin' it. But that voice down there callin' for ya, that ain't yer dear Uncle Freddie. Nah, sister, that's our old friend from the gardens, you mark my words. So you dig deep an' stay the course, an' we'll git ya through this."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-09-16/1212:22>

'Dragons. It just had to be dragons.'
He hadn't missed the sudden change in demeanor either: <<For anyone who hasn't noticed it: The Nightmare has begun to throw around mind affecting powers.>>
With the transformation of the dragons, Isaint also had lowered his armor's visor, or - in the metaphor of this realm - his face had vanished behind deep shadows.
"What you do is wrong and you know it. Screaming like this does nothing to further the honor of your house and damages your reputation as reliable and stoic soldiers."
Isaint hoped that his words were enough to get the man to snap out of it - but just in case he had the shield prepare an electric charge

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <12-09-16/1807:26>

Seeing the Draconians turning back into their Lizard form was definitely not a good sign, but the arrival of yet another, that was just fucked up. But Deckard was pretty sure that was enough to catch everyone's attention.

Using the  distraction he grabbed a few reagents and cast a low power Sound Barrier around the Uncle and his goons. The Barrier was big enough to encompass ISaint and himself inside, but outside of a few, pretty much everybody else wouldn't be able to hear the Iron Company dignitary anymore. He doubted that it could stop the Nightmare power if this was indeed happening, but at least no one would get started with what the Uncle had to say, particularly not the Brides.

Deckard stepped next to ISaint, mentally engaging the Spirit inside him, calling upon his Influence power. Please allow me. This was directed at both the Spirit and ISaint. An eerie power emanated from his voice, though only the mage was really noticing it. To others, it was just a plea:
Sir, you need to stay quiet and go back to you seat. This will be in the greatest interest of your House. Peace and Serenity must remain!

This was directed at the Uncle - or whatever entity was controlling him - and his goons, the only ones that could hear him anyway, outside of ISaint.

[spoiler]
F3 Sound Barrier with 6 reagents Sound Barrier spell F3 with 6 reagent (http://orokos.com/roll/464410): 18d6t5 4
Influence Power from the Channeled Spirit of Man (-1 service): Influence Power Spirit of Man F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/464412): 16d6t5 6
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-11-16/0224:18>

Robyn and Al2 remain near the two brides and take stock of what is happening.  She sends a quick message to the team.  >>ISaint, is it time for Al to reject me and allow the real brides to step in for the ceremony?  Things could go to drek right quick if we do not proceed with this ceremony.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-11-16/0814:12>

<<Now is as good a time as it will get. At least I've got the riot shield in place. Do the switch.>>

Isaint let Rick do his thing, marveling once again about the vast repertoire of tricks his friend had up his sleeves. He did his part in looking away from the man, allowing him to retreat, should he chose to, but at the same time he was ready to start throwing punches if necessary. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-11-16/1446:18>

Robyn nods without saying anything and simply steps backwards and to the side, putting the two girls directly in front of the priest.  She nods at him to continue his part of the ceremony and casts her net of sensors wider so as to be able to see if anyone is approaching the area.  Part of her is sad that this was not her and Al for real, but she keeps that hope alive for the future.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-12-16/0648:16>

Al had been mentally planning some suitably melodramatic denunciation of their vows, but when the signal came and Alyce quietly disengaged, he figured that was best - no need to draw unnecessary attention to the switcheroo, after all.

He felt a warning twinge of loss when her hand left his, but it was matched by a wave of relief as the officiator launched right into the ceremony for the star-cross'd sapphos. Hand at waist level where only the priest-guy would see it, Al twirled his finger in a "hurry it up" gesture, and prayed that the guy would have the good sense to skip the "speak now or forever hold your peace" bit.

Another minute and they could blow this popsicle stand and get some proper brews back in the real world....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-14-16/1737:57>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

Fredryk wilts under the mental assault of Deckard's spirit power and the countermand of the nightmare, collapsing back into the arms of his waiting guard...that is more than enough provocation for two of the three henchman to draw archaic pistols as long as their forearms and wave them threateningly at Isaint and Deckard...they might not be audible but the sight of brandished weapons is enough to clear a space immediately around you...

***

On the stage the sham ceremony is replaced seamlessly with the real, the Padre barely batting an eyelid  "De ye Tamsyn Senjak, Fifth of your line take..." but the rest of his words are drowned out by the dark cloaked figure that towers up behind him from nowhere ~Oh I Do, I most certainly Do~
 
***

#82

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-15-16/0104:01>

Al interrupted his muttered chants just long enough to growl, "No hippie asshole, ya most certainly don't," before launching himself at the shadow brass knuckles-first....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-15-16/0315:04>

It wasn't as if Isaint hadn't expected it, but the spirits ability to sneak on stage undetected irked him immensely.
Undetered by the guns pointed in his direction, he turned his attention to the towering figure, while still holding his shield in the other men's direction.
'St. George give me strength' - Readily, he felt his patron's power flow into him, filling him with confidence and a determined kind of anger.
Meanwhile, with the fluid grace of hundreds of hours of grueling practice, he drew his Super Warhawk. Only the metaphor of this place had turned it to look like a hybrid of a short sword and some kind of sci-fi gun. At least the ammo select seemed still to be in there somewhere. He had personally seen how the cartridges had been filled to the limits of the custom gun. Pulling the trigger was accompanied by the absolute loudest noise Isaint had ever heard a gun make, despite the muting effect of his helmet. A flash of incandescent red light showed the path of the projectile (if it still was a projectile here - damn metaphor) flying dead center towards the towering figures face.
A bit belated and probably unheard in the ringing after the shot he answered: "No one asked you."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-15-16/0832:26>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

The shadow flashes white under the incandescent assault of Isaint’s weapon and it appears to be less distinct around the edges…something that doesn’t seem to phase it as the creature reaches forth and plucks the Padre up from the ground… the good Father looks down in surprise at the incorporeal hand reaching through his chest before coughing blood all over Al and the two would be spouses…and then Al’s assault sends it back to whatever hell spawned it, perhaps here it might even be actually dead!

***

#83

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-15-16/1018:50>

Robyn has time to wonder at the boldness of these spirits to attack here in the presence of dragons as she unspools her whip from her hand and looks around.  The priest is already dead and his killer has already been dispersed back to wherever it came from by ISaint and Al.  She steps forward and Al2 takes his place beside her as she looks around at the seeming chaos that was once a serene gathering.  Spirits are surging out of the shadows and attacking people apparently at random.  Robyn's main focus is on protecting the two brides and her scanners are working overtime to detect any immediate threat as she says, "Remain here and close to each other.  Separating now will only make things worse.  We will get you through this and complete the ceremony."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-15-16/1828:06>

Another shadow threw itself at the brides, but Naked-Blue-Pict-Al struck it down the same way he had the first one. Looking around for another opponent, he saw that while there were dozens to choose from, a good number of the other guests were also perfectly capable of defending themselves. Indeed, Celedyr merely looked at a cluster of them and they imploded into nothingness. All around the room glowing blades were flashing and ray guns were going off...along with heads and livers and souls at the hands of shadows...but it was enough for Al to realize he didn't need to go looking for a fight. As long as he stayed close to their charges and kept them safe, that was job one done.

So then job two - he started looking around for anyone that could replace the heretic fool of a priest they'd started out with, enlisting the three ladies' aid as he did so - "No time ta waste. Now's the perfect chance. Union forged in blood, an' all that. Find someone else can finish the ceremony!"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <12-16-16/0149:37>

Deckard spread his hands and joined them together in a strong clap. He didn't have to, but the matching result was worth it. Mentally he had controlled his "Magic Hands" to grab on each of the goons' head and push them with strength to smash against one another. With the power of a big Troll, the two goons would see stars for a while as they collapsed on the floor.  He extended his hands and the archaic looking guns came flying into them. He tossed the weapons well away from the henchmen, and was about to tell the third one holding on the Uncle to stay away from all this, when the deafening shot from iSaint just covered his voice and got the dampening capabilities of his earplugs to work well above its specs.

He turned back toward the Altar to see a terrifying seen as the Priest collapsed bloodily next to the yet-to-be wed brides. Upset at himself for missing the Shadow sneaking up on them, he called upon the Spirit he had bound earlier this week. Surround the Brides with your most powerful Mana Barrier spell, and keep it this way to protect them. Only my friends and the HellHound can go through. He made sure to share a mental image of his companions to Spirit of Man.

Drawing his own gun, and paying full attention to what was going on all around them, he questioned ISaint: So much for a peaceful ceremony... That makes no sense. Those Shadows would not come here unless summoned or allowed passage to this Metaplane... He looked at the newly arrived Dragon... I have a bad feeling about this.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-16-16/0330:43>

"Just goes to show how much worth those assurances of security were. We have to finish this ritual and than get out of here. And it seems we need a new holy man. I'm pretty sure those assholes will find a way to spin this as our fault. Time to hurry up then.
And Thanks by the way."
Isaint nodded at the unconscious bodyguards.

Isaint's mind was reeling while he talked. The attack had come so fast and unexpected and it had been a spirit he hadn't seen before, implying that the Nightmare had more of those powerful companions on hand than previously shown.
What they needed now was an authority to officiate the wedding.
For a moment he thought about using Al for that, but despite his qualification, he probably wouldn't be recognized as a valid authority...
'Oh no, that is the most stupid, crazy idea yet and its more likely to get us killed than anything else.' He wasn't sure if he had thought that or if it was his patron sending him a message. But just in case he thought: 'Shut up, it's worth a try.'

Stepping upward on the dais, Isaint opened his visor and called out:
"OY, CELEDYR, LOREMASTER OF THE DRAGONS, I, Isaint, follower of St. George, humbly ask for your fragging assistance to wed this couple so we can end this farce and those Shadows."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-16-16/0743:20>

Al was about to be interrupted in his search for anyone that looked like Friar Tuck by a particularly large demon streaking towards Cara when he was delighted to see the freak bounce painfully off the barrier that suddenly popped up. He directed a thumbs-up down at Deckard with his left hand while using his right to toss the shadow the finger.

Then he heard Isaint call on the Lizard King for assistance.

He supposed it was only fitting for it to be an abomination that sealed the deal on an unnatural union.

But he also knew - certain as death and taxes - that this would come back to bite them in the ass down the line....

Then again, he'd never paid taxes, and had no intention of ever dying....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-16-16/0748:07>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

Despite the ferocity of the counterattack from the guests and the Harlequinade it is clear that the shadows are gaining the upper hand… and although the attacks appear to be random to most; the illusive creatures of nightmare literally seeming to appear from within the dancing shadows of the guests; to Deckard’s trained eye they are anything but.  The sprays of blood, the broken fallen bodies, all seem to be forming a pattern…a disturbing pattern that seems to be increasing the level of darkness in the room and the ease of the spirits’ movements…

***

Isaint’s neck prickles and from across the great hall he feels the eyes of one of the creatures on him  ~The irony is delicious Crusader, that you would call on your nemesis, such is the stuff of nightmare, when I Marked you in Dis’ realm, little did I realise what bounty you would provide us with…~ and then its crowing is drowned out by another Voice, one that feels immeasurably ancient and powerful

~It is too late Fate Breaker…there is something coming…something that should be centuries hence…it cannot be permitted to continue, everyone must flee this place or all could be lost~

***

#84

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <12-16-16/1743:40>

Looking around for any approaching danger, something in Deckard's brain seemed to click, for the worst.
Wait a sec...
For a very brief moment, Deckard's soul exited his physical form -which didn't mean much in this Plane. Things were barely different as the Auras for once really looked pretty close to the real selves of the people. It allowed him however to take some height and perspective.

Some dark, evil line where formed at each point the Shadow where eviscerating people. Where the priest once stood was one strong point, four more around at equi-distance. All the 5 points of a Pentagram, Then and there blood and negative emotions where forming circles and sigils. Nothing was random. Each murder, each attack was forming yet another symbol to add to a gigantic Magic Circle.

Deckard came back to his physical form. Very worried.

Fucking Drek! Guys this is no random attack, it's a colossal size Ritual, seems like they're creating a magic circle, each kill and attack forming a specific pattern. Ain't no my specialty but something that size and evil could definitely used to create some sort of Summoning portal. My guess is, the scaly friend is right, something big is coming.

He took a deep breath. He knew his companions would never consider fleeing as the first option. So it was all about saving time and hope for the best. Yet another day in the Sahdows. If that wedding is gonna happen, it needs to happen now. All I can do right now is try to disrupt the pattern, but not knowing what they are making, I can't guarantee the disruption will affect the ritual at all.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-17-16/1126:35>

Robyn spools the whip back into her hand.  She is good with it, but probably not good enough to help much here.  No, she feels a need to get to the realm she knows best.  >>I am going into VR.  I need to go where I might be more effective.  I need to go to my world and see if there is something I can use there to help us.  Al2 will help protect me, but my body will not be responsive for a bit.<<  She gives her Hell Hound companion a command to protect the girls then collapses to the floor as her mind goes out to the matrix.  She momentarily revels in the freedom of just being in what is the real world to her, then shakes herself to look around.  The experience of being on the matrix within this metaplane is different and she is not sure what she will see.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-17-16/1814:44>

"What the fu....dammit!" Al had no doubt Alyce would be more effective virtually, but if he hadn't been locked in his current position before, he certainly was now. That pooch might be a thing on Oxford street, but it was fodder in this crowd. Why did it always have to be straight to the floor right in the middle of a fight?

Watching from behind the temporary safety of Deckard's barrier, he took in all that he could - the pattern of corpses, the actions of the major players, and especially the structure of the building....

Al had always found that huge explosions had a way of solving - or at least obviating - most problems. One hand in his bag, his preternaturally nimble fingers were already making sure all his TNT was configured into one massive charge, ready for detonation....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-19-16/1232:06>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

Lady deBathyre wheels over from her lethal aerial waltz with the shadows and dives towards the stage…

~So, Fate Breaker…?  To be titled by the Loremaster himself, your Pattern bows under the weight of it but I am sure you will not falter.  I know your team enough to doubt that you will turn and flee because a mere dragon tells you to, so would I be a suitable substitute for your ceremony?  I may not carry as much gravitas as the Loremaster but neither House should object to my lineage!~

***

#85

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-19-16/1549:21>

Quote from: Aria on <12-16-16/0748:07>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]
Isaint’s neck prickles and from across the great hall he feels the eyes of one of the creatures on him  ~The irony is delicious Crusader, that you would call on your nemesis, such is the stuff of nightmare, when I Marked you in Dis’ realm, little did I realise what bounty you would provide us with…~ and then its crowing is drowned out by another Voice, one that feels immeasurably ancient and powerful

~It is too late Fate Breaker…there is something coming…something that should be centuries hence…it cannot be permitted to continue, everyone must flee this place or all could be lost~

"How cute, these days I seem to get new nick names all the time..." Isaint replied at the second voice which he hoped was the dragon (now there was a thought he never thought he would think...) "but anyway, I concur, no need for anyone else to get hurt."

Before he could utter anything more, the Killer Clown was on to him: 'Damn, telepathy really needs some privacy protocols.'
<<Team, get ready to evacuate: Al cut open these walls, we need mass evacuation and fast, don't worry about starting fires, just do it quick without killing all inside.
Rick, have your spirit use elemental attacks to slow the creation of the markings - unless it tells you that would kill us all - in that case listen to it and instead have it blow holes in the walls too. And keep our couple and Robyn protected.
Robyn, Get the hell up from the floor and use your sweet sound system to get the people organized and out of here.

GO!>>

Isaint turned his full attention to the Lady: "Thanks, I gladly take your officiating." towards the dragon he said: "All we need is a reliable witness whose word no-one sane would dare to dispute, Loremaster. So if you'd kindly stick around and spare an ear for our monkey business I'd appreciate it."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-19-16/1932:22>

Al was delighted to hear the order to blow up some walls. But he wasn't going to leave this silly pentagram - an engraved invitation to Satan - lying here unmolested. Doing his best to ignore the proceedings as a lizard joined two women in holy matrimony, he squatted just behind Cara's feet and planted a huge block of Isaint's robot-cooked trinitroluene in a stone recess under the base of a standing cast-iron censer, sticking his last radio detonator in like a meat thermometer in a roast.

He looked over at Alyce and her dog - Isaint had tasked Deckard to keep them safe, and bucking the plan wasn't going to help anyone. And yet he worried. Fact was, she was as competent as any of them. But the two of them working together was simply an intrinsic liability. If he let it be, which he wouldn't.

He prepped the rest of the TNT into two charges with pull detonators attached to wire leads from his go-bag. Then, scarred fingers flying across his 'link (which looked like a mini clay tablet but with an LED touch screen) with the dexterity of a concert pianist on amphetamines, he quickly diagrammed his detonation plan and sent it to the team.

His first breach point was fifteen meters of swirling carnage away. So he got started....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-20-16/1008:35>

Robyn has barely started looking around the matrix when the call comes in from ISaint.  Her avatar grimaces as it flows back to the meat world.  Robyn gives her head a slight shake as she stands and walks to the mic.  Her dulcet tones reach out to the crowd over the noise of the fighting.  "Everyone!  Please evacuate the building as orderly and quickly as possible."

>>Do we not need some to stay behind as witnesses?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-20-16/1034:50>

<<We have the frigging Loremaster as witness. And try to contact whoever has a commlink with him and give them AROs to work with - we don't have time for self organization.>>
Isaint replied while he kept his eyes peeled for any shadow stepping out close to the couple or his friends. The drake had just begun to pick up where the priest left off and already Isaint felt his combat sense go haywire, while he concentrated on his motion sense to prevent anything from slipping by him.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-20-16/1041:53>

Robyn nods to herself and begins setting green AROs to mark exits and Red AROs to mark danger points.  As she does she is broadcasting on all channels for people to go to the green and stay from the red ones.  She repeats the instructions on her mic.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-20-16/1233:50>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

Lady deBathyre touched down lightly on the stage and drew herself up to her not inconsiderable draconic height outside Deckard’s barrier, idly snapping at a lone shadow that dared too close

~Will you permit me master mage?~

Upon entering she gathered Tamsyn and Cara to her, cradling their heads against the small smooth scales of her breast

~I am the Lady deBathyre…  I stood with my Master in the fourth age, Light Bearer and Skysailor both… by my authority as Captain of the Stormswyft it is my Will that these two here be married in faith and peace, let it be!~

***

On the far side of the hall Celedyr is disappearing under the weight of the darkness assaulting him and of the other dragon there is suddenly no sign.  With a sudden burst of energy the silvery bronze dragon lofts himself in to the air and does to the wall what even Al’s most powerful explosives would struggle to achieve…and with a sudden thrust of his wings he is gone…

***

#86

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-21-16/1442:39>

Only the first breaching charge was in place. It hadn't been far, but two steps from the stage a pair of demons had charged him, and to avoid them he'd bellyslid gracefully through the gore on the floor, the blood on both his own stomach and the flagstones providing amazing lubrication until a dismembered troll carcass (would the trog still be alive back in the real world? he didn't try to understand...) brought him to a stop. Then he'd played dead just until he felt their breath on the nape of neck, rolled over and blasted both with his fancy new ray-gun. "Zaparooney, bitches. Ol' Al going Buck Rogers on yer asses!"

Behind him somewhere the she-lizard's voice carried loud enough for others to hear, but he was pretty sure he didn't hear a single "better or worse" or "sickness or health" or "to have and to hold" or anything else that would make it a real, God-fearing union.

So he'd just placed the first charge and then the king-lizard took out the whole opposite wall. "Pussy," Al muttered, unsurprised to see the would-be sentient flee. Not needing to place the rest of his charges, he ducked behind a pillar, yelled "Fire inna hole," to no one in particular (it just sounded cool), and blew his own single small hole - the distance between himself and the dragon-hole still being filled with a brutal melee between demons and hippies and not a soul he cared about.

Then seeing that the rites were completed, he looked around to see if any of his people needed help getting out, messaging <<Exit stage left, or exit stage right. But exit that damned stage post haste so I can blow a fat hole in the Satan Circle.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-22-16/0052:22>

Robyn watches the ceremony with slightly wet eyes but her sensors are watching everywhere around her and the brides.  >>ISaint, do we stay with the brides or what? <<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-22-16/0132:38>

<<You heard Al, grab the brides and get out of here. I'll cover you.>>
Isaint hadn't missed the fact that so far none of the spirits had tried to get near him. Maybe that bit about being marked wasn't just misleading boasting on the Nightmares part. But whatever it was, he didn't intend to leave here until that connection was severed - and the knew precisely one way to achieve that. He had exchanged his gun for his rifle - now looking like a pilum crossed with some kind of blaster weapon. His weapon focus radiated white light, while his third eye was wide open, looking for his foe.
Time to do what he did best and get someone irrationally angry at him: "I know you can hear me, Nightmare. You've lost now. Below's leaders might have been complacent with you before, but now you've pissed them off, every last house. They'll send every last freak after you. And calling your big daddy here will be for nothing. There are two great dragons around and those manipulative bastards don't like anything more powerful than them around.
It's over, you can as well stop the ritual and spare yourself the embarrassment of having it destroyed while it pokes it's head out.
Oh and if you haven't noticed yet: If you did target this place to get back on me - you failed. None of my plans were damaged, all you did was shoot yourself in the knee. You lost, sucker."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-22-16/0154:00>

Robyn nods and quickly stuffs her cello into its case and snicks at Al2 to get him up and at her side.  She crosses to the brides who are still standing next to the drake.  "Maam?  I think that it is time that we got these brides on the way to their honeymoon, don't you?  I have orders to carefully bring them with me out of the building as I really am not sure that it will be up for too much longer.  It has been a true pleasure for my eyes to have been opened long enough to have seen you.  I am sure that I will be blind again as soon as we return to Below, but this was amazing.  Please let me know if there is anything I can ever do for you.  Now, I think I need to get these beauties out of here.  Tamsyn and Cara?  Please come with me."

She also sends a note to the Harlequinade that it is time to be leaving.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <12-23-16/0449:19>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Great Hall, Lyonesse, Metaplane]

At Isaint’s words, and in chilling unison, the shadows laugh, a sound far worse than dentist drills or fingernails on a blackboard

~Lost? Poor fool! She is coming to feast on your souls, and there is nothing that you can do to prevent it. Your gift to Below and the rest of this benighted plane~

And with that the air suddenly seems to ignite, the pattern becoming all too visible, wrenching at the eyes and sucking at the magical gifts of all around you.  Above, four of the largest elementals Deckard had ever seen tore the roof to splinters and hovering above the hall, Celedyr’s majestic form.  Opening his maw he unleashed a torrent of fire brighter than the sun, seering afterimages in to your retinas…only for the fire to be absorbed by the swirling ritual…his cry of frustration and rage is terrible…

***

#87

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-23-16/0516:11>

"Bla bla bla. Just for you info: You called your fat girlfriend to the wrong metaplane."
<<Time for plan B. That thing seems to feed on raw mana. From it's perspective this plane must look like it's made of cake.
You all remember the FAB III Bio-Weapon? It might be time to introduce it to this island
Rick, how fast do you think one of your spirits could retrieve the sealed briefcase and carry it to the portal Below?
If we time it right, we could step out, I grab the briefcase go back, drop the payload and get out again, leaving the eldritch abomination to get a cold.>>

#510

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-23-16/1814:24>

As the other-planar version of his flare compensators struggled to cope with the brightness of the lizard's flames, Al thought it was ironic that the place which had restored Alyce's sight was about the cost him his own.

Cowering at the base of a pillar to stay out of the continuing maelstrom of death around him, he also spent a split second idly wondering how his imminent incineration would jive with his conviction that death was not in his future.

Then he got his answer as the eldritch vortex sucked the flames hungrily into some unnatural place - if they were already on a metaplane, where were they summoning...whatever they were summoning...from? And it wasn't just the dragon's flames - on his back, Rex was whining in frustration, the brass knuckles glowing around Al's fingers fading and flickering. Al had thought the hound past pain, but the rules didn't apply here. He sent his friend unwillingly away to wait this one out.

As usual, Isaint's plan was brilliant. <<Aces ta that, bossman. Kudos fer keepin' it handy. But it's gon' take a tick or two ta fetch. So y'all step lively now, cuz one whisker o' anything pokes through this portal, an' ol' Al's blowin' this candy stand an' the Satan Star under it sky high whether yer still here or not.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-24-16/0131:56>

Robyn stops moving as she hears the plan.  She unspools the whip from her hand and swishes it about on the stone floor before flinging her hand up and cracking the monofilament against the floor.  She is pleased to see a minute crack appear in the paving stones and sends a message to her team even as she continues to have the AROs guide those still in the building out.  >>Hey.  My whip might be good for something, after all.  It can cut through the stones of the flooring.  I can use it to slice up their little digram.  Good idea or not?<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-24-16/0518:21>

<<You can do that Robyn, but I'm not requesting you to do so since it's fragging dangerous to get near an active summoning circle with an EA (Eldritch Abomination) sticking its tentacles through. For now let's Al try his mundane explosives - it would be delicious if those were more effective than a dragon's breath attack.
For now all of you try not to die and keep your eyes peeled for shadow attacks.>>

Isaint had moved steadily away from the circle, unfazed by the dragon attack behind his shield. Now he stood at the newly created exit, covering as large an area as possible with his rifle.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-24-16/0713:00>

Squatting as unobtrusively as possible at the base of the pillar, Al watched as a point of crackling black light appeared in the center of the hall and began to widen - a slow but steady expansion expansion into an irregular circle - an aperture into nothingness.

A nausea-inducing wave of dread emanated from the opening, strengthening as it got bigger.

And a presence - Al could feel something - something alive and full of malice on the other side.

Isaint had made it to his breach - not exactly safe distance, but he'd be able to get clear with a two-second warning.

Drake-lady had scooped up the two brides like a hawk and gone out through where the roof had been moments before, and the mimes had had the good sense to get clear.

But Al couldn't see Rick. And there was Alyce, still up there on the dais with her creature. He knew he should blow the circle now - better one person dead than some unspeakable Minion of Darkness unleashed on the world. Every soul it destroyed would be on Al's head if he didn't destroy their summoning circle now...

He knew he should, but...damn her and what she did to him....

What was she on about? Whipping the damned Circle? He was trying to imagine what difference a few molecule-wide cuts would make next to his eight kilos of structurally-emplaced TNT on that Pentagram at....Right!!! A few mental calculations later and he was tracing lines over his previous diagram on the surface of his clay tablet 'link - properly placed fault lines radiating outward and intersecting the shock wave could dramatically enhance the force/resistance multiple. He scuttled around to the other side of the pillar from the blast - it should be enough to at least keep him alive - sort of - and hit SEND.

A micro-second later Robyn received the diagram, as Al muttered into his silly medeival commlink: <<Cuts as shown. Two seconds, tops, then OUT!>>

The aperture was wider now, and...was that something that had briefly flailed out of the hole and back again...like a light-sucking whip, but with suction cups....?

Then a larger form started to push through, as though straining at some sort of membrane, and every fiber of Al's soul was filled with terror. His muttering to his voudoun patrons was useless, only the white akita - no, Al wouldn't give it the satisfaction of naming it - would keep him steady now. He centered his mind on it.

He couldn't wait much longer - but if Alyce was quick he wouldn't have to - a few more seconds, and checkmate. But only if the demons didn't tip to what he was doing...oops, there he'd thought it...he saw two break off their worshipful adulation of the aperture and break towards him, and another two at Robyn....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-24-16/1555:18>

Alyce watches the drake sweep the brides away and she sees that the large chamber is nearly empty of anyone not an enemy.  She nods as she receives ISaint's message.  >>Roger, ISaint.  I will let Al try first.  Still, I cannot help but think that avoiding danger is not exactly what we do.<<

Al's message is confusing at first, but then the light bulb turns on in her head.  Smiling grimly, she allows her mutated brain to do what it was designed to do.  She closes her eyes and lets her mind take over, stretching out her sensors and heightened natural senses to "see" what she needs to see.  Her body moves in perfect rhythm and time as she flexes her hand and moves the monofilament of the whip in exact, bloody perfect arcs, slashing narrow, minute cuts into the floor.  The small weight at the tip of the lash prevents it from going in deep, but the main portion of the whip can still cut a narrow groove as it smacks against the stones of the floor.  Alyce's brain is finally able to do what the Divine Creator had intended and she is able to use it for more than party tricks and memorizing lines of music.  Every mark that Al has made on the diagram he had sent her is perfectly remembered and perfectly duplicated on the floor.

The darkness from the abyss affects her in ways that she is not entirely prepared for.  She staggers back from her task, almost at the point of fleeing in terror, but her hand grasps the idol that Al had made for her that she has kept on a string about her neck for over eight years.  Alyce has lived for more than a long time and has experienced much in this world that cannot be explained by logic...........or even magic.  Some things just ARE.  And the protection she has received from the crudely made idol has allowed her to overcome all of her fears, and the love she has poured back into it has kept her sane even through the darkest, most terrifying experience of her life.  She laughs almost maniacally into the rising wind swirling from the hole in the floor.  No monster, no spirit, no demon can hold more fear and pain than what she lived through at the hands of that woman and Alyce suddenly realizes that even that experience had been necessary for her survival now; that her mind would already have caved in to her fears without having gone through the repeated cycles of torture, death, and rebirth she had experienced.  She pushes the fear and terror aside as she steps back to her next position and swings the whip again.  And again.

As she makes the next to last cut, her sensors warn her of the approach of two of the creatures that had been engrossed in expanding the aperture and she readies herself.  She is not done yet and cries out in frustration.  She cannot leave here without making the last cut and so stands her ground.  The Hell Hound has remained at her side, a faithful guardian and companion through all of the fury and terror of what is happening.  He moves quicker than she can think and charges at the pair of spirits, his mouth gouting flame as he roars a snarl that momentarily causes the two to pause just as they approach Alyce.  The unholy fire seems to have a greater effect on this metaplane than on Alyce's home and the spirits erupt in flames.  Al2 completes his movement by latching his jaws onto the form of one of the spirits as Alyce steps forward with her own savage cry, swinging her arm in an arc that sends the whip about one of the spirits.  At the last second, she hears a voice in her head.  "Take a bit of my strength.  You may tell your companion later that not all dragons are bad."  Her arm is gifted with a surge of power that she knows is not hers ans she pulls the whip tight against the spirit it is wrapped around.  The thing is either weaker than some of its companions or Alyce is luckier than she had been earlier or maybe it is just that the power of the dragon is enough, but the effect is rather dramatic as the spirit is completely cut through in a shower of ectoplasm.  Both halves remain for a moment before the creature vanishes, giving a shriek of terror and anguish of its own as it realizes it has been utterly destroyed.  The second spirit swipes a massive hooked weapon at the hound, cutting deeply into it, but Alyce's faithful companion refuses to release its vise-like jaws from the leg of the spirit.  Alyce twirls in a circle, whipping the lash in her hand at high speed and catches the spirit across the neck.  No amount of immunity or protection could possibly save the creature from this attack and its head pops away from its body before this spirit, too, vanishes.

Alyce notes her hound collapse to the stone floor, the brilliant red of its eyes dimming as it struggles to avoid being called back to its plane of existence.  She falls to her knees to cradle her friend's massive head when the arms of another beat her to it.  One of the drakes has returned and is lifting the beast into the air.  "I will do what I can for your friend.  He has earned a chance and I will try to give it to him, but you have another task.."  The drake swoops away as Alyce nods and regains her feet, moving to the final location.  The delay to fight the spirits has allowed the hole to widen even more, threatening to undo all she has tried to accomplish.  She lets her perfect sensors guide her arm and she swings the whip once more, making the last of Al's prescribed cuts.  Once done, she begins to move towards the exit, but her sensors show that Al is threatened and her heart takes her body in a direction of its own.  She is at the side of the man she loves almost at the speed of thought, certainly faster than she knows she should be able to move.  Realizing that the power of the dragon must still be with her she stands between Al and the advancing spirits.

"I love you, Al, but quit fucking around and set that bloody stuff off!  I will keep them from you for as long as I can!"  She swishes the whip in front of her, determined to buy Al as much time as possible.  Her eyes are still closed but she has SEEN Al and that is enough for now.  Grinning and crying out, she steps forward, swinging her arm in an arc.......................

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-28-16/1322:37>

"Ods fuckin' bodkins, woman..." Al cried out in exasperation, figuring as long as he was now some sort of cosplay freak he might as well get into character. He got up and closed the distance with Alyce, careful to avoid her whip's deadly backswing. Even as he reached her she was slashing an incoming incubus into incorporeality.

And the thing had a foot through now, and a face - some sort of Lovecraftian nightmare that defied dimensional description.

He reached up and grabbed the back of Alyce's collar, dragging her back behind the pillar and looking desperately around for Rick.

He couldn't blow the place until he knew...

The foot/pod/appendage was on the floor now, a hideous claw gripping the edge of the aperture to help whatever-it-was work its bulk through the opening.

But he knew that thing was almost through....

"Lord Jesus, fergive me...again..." And arm around Alyce he thumbed his comm.

Billowing orange flames filled the dais-end of the hall, exploding past them on either side of the pillar. It was so hot their hair and clothing caught fire, but the flames were immediately extinguished by the shockwave that followed. Cracks spiderwebbed their way up the pillar but, true to Al's calculations, it held - they weren't vaporized or otherwise killed outright.

And even as the upper half of the now roofless structure burst outward in a rain of wooden shrapnel, Al saw that Alyce's cuts had done their job, easing the flow of force, channeling it, so that not only was the pentagram on the dais at the apex of the Circle obliterated, but the floor on which the arms of the Circle were inscribed erupted into shattered chunks of mortar and flagstone for several yards hence.

The effect on the aperture was immediate - it contracted dramatically, its bottom reach snapping shut to sever the extended lower appendage of the abomination and forcing it to withdraw its head back whence it had come with an indescribably cry of unearthly fury. But even as Al thought the portal would close to nothingness, the thing's jet claws reached through and caught the edges, holding it open. Now barely a man's stride across, the claws were slowly pulling it open, and then demons swarmed to the edges to help, while dozens of others - appearing as if from nowhere - started working frantically to repair the Circle.

<<Alrighty bossman, ol' Al done slowed 'em down. Yer up.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-29-16/0121:06>

Alyce may be focused on the two, no, now four spirits advancing on Al's pillar, but she is fully aware of Al coming toward her from behind and she makes sure that he is in no danger from her whip.  The power she has been granted by the Great Dragon is still with her and her first slash severs an arm from a misshapen monster, causing it to reel backwards and scream out in fury as its halberd-like weapon falls to the stone floor, still clutched by the arm.  Her back swing catches an incubus and saws it in half just as Al reaches her and yanks her off her feet.  He is muttering something about odd bodkins as he drags her back to the supposed safety of the pillar.  The other spirits continue to advance, but they are still a moment or two away when Al mutters a prayer and all goes white as her vision and hearing sensors go off-line to avoid being damaged by the blast.

Only in trideos do pillars fully protect people hiding behind them.  In Alyce's experience, real flames curl around obstacles and she and Al should have been barbecued.  But they are not, because the flames do not act like real flames and they do bypass the pillar.  Call it the God of her Russian Orthodox religion, the voodoo spirits she has started praying to, the power of the Dragon above, or whatever you really want to call it, but the flames pass them by..........or almost.  Her visual and audio sensors are not working, but her enhanced olfactory senses are still effective and they very clearly pick up the heady aroma of  burning cloth and hair for the moment before the air rushing past the pillar sucks the flames from them.  In the immediate quiet after the initial blast, when her sensors are beginning to come back, Alyce says what is easily the most inane, nonsensical thing she has ever said.  "My, bloody fucking hair, Al?  You fucking burned my bloody hair?  Brilliant!  Just bloody brilliant!"

The spirits that had been approaching them were gone, swept away in the maelstrom of fire and shock wave that Al had unleashed, but there were more gathered at what Alyce can see of the remains of the pit, trying to expand it.  She listens to Al's question and waits for the answer, readying her whip to go back out there if that was required.  In this brief space of time between question and answer, Alyce sends Al a pre-recorded message; one she had placed in the auto out box of her 'link before everything sort of started to all come a crapper.  >>Al, I want you to know something just in case I do not make it out of this and you do.  Remember that little girl from Cambodia?  I adopted her.  She is in her first year of pre-med at Cambridge.  Please go see her if I cannot and tell her what happened and that I love her dearly.  Thank you.<<

After sending the message, she says, "Wow! Al.  You really know how to show a girl a bloody great time.  I hope that your idea of a date is a bit less dangerous.  Can you see Rick?  Some powerful mojo would be useful right about now.  Or maybe you got some more boom-boom in that bag of yours?  I could try to cover you long enough to get something going."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <12-29-16/0204:50>

The blast had been way beyond the specs on his audio dampers, and the ringing in Al's ears threatened to drown out Alyce's voice. He glanced at her text, filed it away in his mind with a better-her-than-me mental shrug, then managed to reply, "Nah, Isaint done got hisself a peach of a plan. We gotta find Rick, git ourselves clear, an' pray we bought 'im enough time."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <12-30-16/1802:45>

Play with Fire, die with Fire; play with Magic... well... if he were going to die today, it would be on his terms. He let the constantly flowing Mana permeate him. embracing its power and his control over it.
Luminous sigils and magic circles appeared around his hand as he called upon his most powerful Magic. One hand controlled the Mana and Physical walls he was casting to keep at bay the Shadows, whilst in the other, his gun was   shooting powerful rounds looking like laser blasts. With their lack of immunity, each shot seemed enough to disrupt them.  Around him his Air Spirit had manifested in a huge Raven like bird, as if sent directly by his Mentor Spirit. A few feet above the ground the majestic creature were spitting rays after rays of intense and deadly lighting bolts. Some were aimed at the Shadows themselves, others, as instructed were shouting at what seemed to be the pattern of the Summoning Circle.

But with each evil destroyed, another appeared. Soon his gun was out of ammo. Too quickly his Barriers were shattered. He called upon one of his bound Spirit to grant ISaint, Al, Robyn, the Two Brides, his Air Spirit and Himself  Magical speed.

That's when his world ignited. If not for the appropriate casting of one more Barrier, he would have burnt in place. From under him, he could feel the swirls of powerful Magic. Evil. Dark. Terrifying. From above the appearance of the four Elementals and suddenly the breath of death from the Great Dragon, wrecked havoc, only to have the blast absorbed by the Entity... If not for his now unnatural speed, Deckard would have simply been cremated, yet a casualty of the terrible events happening in this plane.

From where now stood, he could no longer see the 'stage' where he hoped the two gals have had the opportunity to finally get united in sacred vows. He heard ISaint plan. Seeing how the 'thing' was sucking on all the ambient Mana, it was a brilliant idea. The execution of it however seemed unlikely. At the rate things were going, they might all be dead before the FAB makes it way to this plane... if that was at all possible... Though sealed, he didn't know if the artifact could pass through the Portal, nor if his Spirit, though highly intelligent, would be willing to accomplish such task. Nevertheless, he could not NOT take the chance.   He called upon his bound spirit of Man and mentally explained to him the task, providing as clear details of the whereabouts of the artifact as he had in his mind. The remote service would take away the service he was providing now, but there were more important matter. He made a point to give him a choice for not only it was a dangerous task, but the Spirit had to give all he could to run against time. Take what you want from me if you must. We need it now!. And the Spirit vanished, with neither an acknowledgement whether or not he could accomplished the task at hand. Within a second the connection with spirit was but a faint distant feeling confirmed he was no longer in this plane but not sure where he could be.

A shadow evaporated next to him, burnt by the deadly ray of the Raven spirit. A quick reminder that Chaos was still roaming all around him.

As if from nowhere, Deckard suddenly appeared next to ISaint, by the gaping hole in what was a wall not too long ago. With a dexterity that was rarely his, he casually reloaded his gun. Without any intend of usefulness at this stage, more a mean to take away the stress and pressure of the situation, and to 'look cool' next to the armor clad centurion, protector of earth, and the chosen one it seems, for whatever it meant coming from an Evil Spirit.
Things never get boring with you guys, do they? I can't answer your question but I have sent my pal. All we need now is....

And Al blew the place. Literally. Pure instinct made Deckard raise a Physical Barrier before himself and ISaint to block the flames and initial heat wave.  When he dared to look at the portal a moment of hope sped up his heart. It didn't last.

He send a message. You guys are alive? I'm with ISaint...
 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-30-16/1826:18>

Why did all his friends always insist on running into danger? 'Jealous that you aren't the one running into it?' 'Shut up'
Isaint had little time to contemplate if he was truly talking to his patron or was just going insane with all the voices trying to talk to his brain without bothering with his ears.
Instead he kept firing at all the shadows that headed towards Al and Robyn. In a way those two were lucky: Without open eyes for the astral they didn't even see just how many shadows there were hidden behind concealing veils. He did his best to fell the most pressing threats, but even so he was forced to watch his chummers fighting for their lives against the ones he couldn't stop in time.
When the explosion hit, he noticed for the first time that Rick had returned to his side. <<Glad to see you alive and well.>>
The portal had shrunken to a pinhole, but as the dust began to settle he could already see the pseudopodes beginning to enlarging the rip again.
<<Right, enough heroism for now, fall back to where we came from. Time to go War of the Worlds on this alien fucker.
Keep going, Rick was kind enough to give us super speed to play with.>>
To demonstrate his, Isaint took a leap backwards, planting himself 20 m away from the now crumbling hall and firing at a Shadow that thought he could sneak up on him by climbing on the outside wall.
<<Now, MOVE!>>


#512

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-30-16/1924:25>

Alyce barely has time to fully take in all of the information that her sensors are giving her.  There are too many spirits that she can see, which leads her to wonder just how many she cannot see.  She notes Rick's appearance next to ISaint just before his message reaches them and she is glad that they have not lost another companion.  She spares a quick moment of thought for her Hell Hound companion, but then ISaint's own message comes across and she  realizes that time is too short for that sort of pain just now.  Besides, the pillar that had given them its protection is beginning to crumble; the spiderwebs of cracks caused by the explosion have weakened it significantly.  Alyce and Al stand to leave and she makes a small jump away before turning back to the pillar, a crazy thought in her mind. 

The pillar supports part of the roof that has not collapsed yet and its removal would send large chunks of rock down on whoever is beneath that section of the roof.  The collapse is imminent, but perhaps she can give it a push.  In a brief span of time she prays to her God, to the voodoo spirits, and the Dragon to protect Al and leaps back out of his embrace toward the pillar, relying on the surprise of her movement to break free of his grasp.  She has to go back to the pillar................its girth is too much for her whip to encircle if she is away from it by more than a foot or two.  Her move has caught Al by surprise, at least for a second, and she takes advantage of that brief time before he comes back for her, knowing full well that will do just that instead of doing the smart thing, which is to continue running for ISaint and the exit from the building.

Plenty of ballerinas have made a more graceful spin, but Alyce is not interested in grace right now.  She wants power behind her swing and she gets it, both from what strength the Dragon has lent her and the unnatural speed that Rick has provided her.  Alyce's arm sweeps out and the monofilament edge of the whip wraps completely around the pillar and a bit more.  She cries out as she yanks on the whip, pulling it through the cracked stone of the pillar in one mighty movement, going off balance and staggering back into the firm embrace of Al's arms.  He is cursing at her something fierce, some of it in languages even Alyce does not know, but all Alyce can do is smile.  He has come back as she had felt he would.  She is safe now, because nothing can harm her in that protection.

It takes a few seconds for anything to really happen.  After all, her slice was exceptionally thin and it takes the stones of the mighty pillar a short amount of time to realize what has been done to it.  Seconds of time pass almost in slow motion as Al drags Alyce towards ISaint and Rick, who are providing covering fire against the tide of spirits that can sense that two of their tormentors have delayed too long.  One, three, five spirits go down to the withering fire, but there are just too many.  Then, with a loud crack that must have been heard far from this place, the pillar snaps, collapsing on itself in a shower of stone, wood, and dust, bringing with it a large section of the roof above.  Most of the spirits chasing after Al and Alyce are crushed by the falling debris, any immunity they had overcome by the tons of rock falling upon them.  The three that escape that fate are quickly brought down by ISaint's skill as Al guides Alyce to sanctuary.

The combination of the Dragon blasting through, Al''s magnificently planned explosion, and the collapse of the pillar has weakened the structural integrity of the roof to the point where a huge slap of stone teeters for a second then separates from the rest of the roof, coming down in one massive piece.  The spirits below have no warning and are crushed out of existence by the stone that almost completely covers the growing pit.  Almost.  Certainly there is a delay in the actions of the Entity beyond, for even it was not prepared for what has just happened, but it recovers quickly.  A good bit of its aperture had been closed again, but it redoubles its efforts to break free.  Perhaps it senses that the puny mortals arrayed against it have used their last bit of luck and are now unable to prevent it from coming through the hole.  Many of its worshipers have been slain and it will have to do the rest of the work mostly by itself, but that is of little import just now.  It WILL escape and it WILL punish those who have labored to delay it.  The Entity spares precious seconds imaging the humiliation and torture it will inflict upon the Dragon Slayer's prized follower and his minions. 

Al and Alyce arrive at ISaint's side and look back on what they have wrought.  Al is still cursing her as she reaches a hand into a pocket of her dress and pulls two slightly crinkled Lucky Strikes from a dented pack and shoves one into his mouth.  He does not stop his ranting at her as she digs a battered Zippo lighter from another pocket and lights the cigarettes.  "Thank you, Al, for caring."  She looks at ISaint and Rick and smiles.  "And what do you two have planned as an encore?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <12-30-16/1943:59>

"Exit Stage Left - come on, there are two many ears around us to discuss any plans - even if I had any idea whatsoever how we could defeat this thing.
But look on the bright side: The brides' hide is over and they are truly wed. So no more hanging around in this little slice of hell."
<<Seriously, let's get out of here so we can come back with the weapon.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <12-30-16/1953:07>

Alyce/Robyn laughs as she blows smoke rings in the air.  "I have to say that you three sure know how to show a girl a bloody good time.  I am all for getting away.  Lead on."

>>No arguments here, but I hope that we can do this quickly.  That thing is delayed, not stopped and it will soon have the hole big enough to come through.<<

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-02-17/0910:51>

As the four gathered amid the fleeing refugees outside the collapsing hall, Al broke off cursing at Alyce to clap a hand on Rick's shoulder before they began their sprint to the exit from this place.

"Ain't never been happier ta see a practicin' Satanist alive an' well."

And then they were off, covering the plains between them and the astral rift at a breathtaking pace - Al suspected that the powers of Rick's spirit to accelerate them were multiplied by the unreality of this place, and it seemed mere moments before they had reached their destination. Even from afar they could see the cataclysm atop the hill where the keep had once stood, and the nearly opened aperture was clearly visible, now barely containing the Entity that sought entry to this world.

Now that they were here, the question was whether their nefarious payload was awaiting them on the other side....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-02-17/1310:07>

Alyce is still smoking her second fag when the four reach their wait point.  She looks at her remaining companions between drags.  "OK, so is this the part where we rock-paper-scissors who gets to take the thing to the bloody hole?  Or are you three going to admit I might be the best option to get the case in?  After all, without my Hell Hound, there is almost no risk of contamination for me personally..  Good or bad idea?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-02-17/1705:56>

"Bad idea. I'm wearing a full body armor with a chemical seal and I've got a personal beef with that Nightmare spirit to settle. Beside that, you have to live with the people of Below - and if I've learned anything than that those guys have a hard time recognizing extenuating circumstances. If anyone should be at fault of releasing a biological weapon of mass destruction turning that metaplane into an uninhabitable wasteland, it probably should be the guy they already hate.
Besides, it's my bloody hard shell case. Speaking of wich..."

Through the excitedly babbling refugees, the shimmering form of a materialized air spirit was zooming with uncanny speed. A second later, it dropped the aforementioned case into Rick's hands.

"And besides: You still can get sick from those buggers. The infection is what made them dangerous to both dual natured and non-dual natured.
On the other hand we are all taking those super-antibiotics at the moment, so we likely would be able to resist a second infection if we don't breath in a concentrated dose."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-02-17/1938:28>

Al resented Alyce's implication that she was the only one free of Satan's taint - the Good Lord knew he didn't have an Awakened bone in his body. But, as Isaint pointed out, the crap they were dealing with targeted the bewitched and the pure-hearted alike.

And now, as usual, everyone wanted to be the hero, and they didn't have time to argue about it. Al figured if they wanted the privilege, they were welcome to it. Except that didn't exactly sit right with the white Akita, and he'd made certain commitments.

"Isaint's right - he's the best pertected, an' it's his case. So he goes. Rick, he's gotta stay, cuz he goes down, we lose the speed we need to git the hell outta Dodge. But Al's taggin' along fer the delivery. Simple math. Too many hippie demons out there ta be sure jist one of us gits through to make the drop-off - delivery boy's gotta have back up. An' the back up can't be Alyce, cuz she's a womern. So let's go."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-02-17/2225:03>

Al's simplistic logic defies all reason, but Alyce simply walks up to him and kisses him, putting all of her love into that one kiss.  "You come back if you want any more of those, Al."  She reaches into her pocket and pulls out the pack  of Lucky Strikes.  "And here, you take these for on the way.  Just try to bring me back the case..............it means something to me.  Now go and send that fucker all the way back to bloody hell.  I will be waiting right here until you return, so be quick about it and try to keep ISaint alive as you do.  You will always and forever be the man I need.  Ta."

She steps back, trying like all hell to keep the tears from her eyes and succeeding until he turns away and leaves her standing where she will be forever if he does not return.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-03-17/1817:35>

"Don't worry, if everything works as planned, we will be in and out before you know it - at least as long as Rick's spirit keeps us fueled with super speed."
Isaint took the hard shell case and worked the number lock so that it would pop open at the push of the button. "Here, take my rifle - damn rule of three."
He nodded at Rick and Al: 
"Alright. Time to lower the real estate value of a meta plane. Al you cover me, while I run around the collapsed building, spreading the FAB. If the metaphor works I'll probably spread some kind of visible miasma. Once the circle is complete we get the fuck out of there.
One, two, go..."

And with that Isaint jumped back through the portal.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-03-17/1927:01>

Al followed close on the tusked centurion's heels, immediately reverting to his ridiculous blue form, and before they knew it they were back to where the otherplanar aperture gaped fully open amid the burning rubble of the the once great hall.

And the first one was out. The size of the alien form had been enough that Al had assumed it was a singular entity. But even as the great lizard that called itself Celedyr struggled to drive it back where it had come from, a second gigantic abomination was squeezing itself through. The skies were filled with shadows making for the dragon, barely held in check by the Loremaster's phalanx of huge elementals.

Al had figured that with all that was going on he and Isaint would scarcely be noticed, but even with the shadows throwing themselves at the dragon and his escort, one massive hippie demon - Al felt sure it was the ringleader from the gardens - immediately took note of Isaint and led a squadron after him.

As Isaint got to work, Al ran alongside him, firing volley after volley from his shiny ray gun - the lesser demons died easily, but the Master dodged every shot and bore down on the case and its carrier....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-04-17/0150:06>

The flow of people through the portal has slowed considerably as almost everyone has passed through.  Several people come up to where Robyn is standing and try to get her to come away to have someone look at her injuries, some to get her to eat something, another to tell her that she is wanted in the Earl's house.  She just shakes her head to all of them.  "I told him I would wait here and here I will wait.  He will be back to take me on a date."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Aria on <01-04-17/0448:48>

[Saturday July 11th?, 2076; Ruins of Lyonesse, Metaplane]
 
The She mentioned by the nightmare is a mind wrenching vision and you are just as glad that the atmospheric disturbance caused by the ripple in the astral and the titanic efforts of Celedyr to keep her at bay mean that you can only really catch glimpses…you have a nagging feeling that where you to be exposed to her full form your minds might snap!  Countless horror trids and graphic media reports might have inured you to some of the worst sights the Sixth world has to offer, but this doesn’t belong anywhere near the rational world!
 
Here the hardshell case appears to be some sort of reliquary with glass sides…inside a boiling miasma churns and bubbles, almost as evil feeling as the entity you intend to deploy it against…
 
***
 
#88

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-04-17/0758:26>

Al had killed his first demon at the age of fourteen. It had been a nasty, no-account son of a bitch with acid for blood and hate for a heart. Maybe it was subjective, the way everything seems to have shrunk when you return to a place not visited since childhood, but Al had killed a hell of a lot of unnameable things since, and never topped the horror of that first.

But this - this was a whole new league. This was Horror, pure and unadulterated. This was the yin to God's yang, proof that for every good in this universe there must be an opposite, a dark mirror. This was not wrong in human terms, no mere manifestation of primoridal simian night terrors. This was evil universal, the antithesis of light, entropy embodied in darkness, and fueled with malice.

The soul recoiled.

The heart, as it were, faltered.

But maybe his soul was already as shriveled as it could get, or his heart long given-up on this or any other fallen world. However it was, Al kept running,a bellicose blue blaze, sending his Flash Gordon laser beams into whatever shadowy forms dared threaten Isaint's advance. He wondered at his resolve, and tried to credit the voodoo gods. Or Dog. In his heart, though, he knew it was the wetness of an angel-harlot's kiss still fresh on his cracked lips.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-04-17/0851:34>

"Keep your distance, I'll open the reliquary in five, four, three..."
Isaint had to stop his countdown as the Nightmare swooped towards him. His horrific appearance was almost a welcome distraction from the sanity eroding sight of the eldritch horror just to his left.
The reliquary was safely hidden behind Isaint's shield for the moment, allowing him one hand free for his gun.

"Al, don't look at it. Shut your eyes, Al. Don't look at it, no matter what happens!"
With that Isaint commanded his shield's flash pack feature to activate. Where in the normal world it would have been a stroboscope like in a particularly nasty disco, the metaphor changed it into a searing, all blinding light that didn't allow shadows to form.

Isaint didn't bother to draw his weapon. He needed all his concentration now for running and keeping the shield pointed towards the Nightmare.
Releasing the Miasma was easier here than expected: As the glas reliquary fell away, the Miasma was contained in some kind of translucent bladder - not unlike a jelly fish in water. His cestus poked a hole into it and suddenly he trailed a coil of dark green smoke that roiled and drifted towards the center of the summoning circle. Isaint had the distinct impression that it wasn't merely expanding but also gaining mass. If he had to guess, the magic rich environment coupled with the flexible time aspect allowed the FAB to multiply a lot faster than there cell bound brethren in the mundane world.

He had finished half the circle before the Nightmare finally caught up with him - and came in contact with the miasma to which he had been blinded before. At least Isaint assumed that it was because of the contact that the Nightmare began to scream incoherently inside his head.
"Go and find some Chickensoup you bastard." Isaint managed to say before the Nightmare rammed into him and made him fly ten meters through the air.
The landing took his breath away, but he kept the shield above him and his armor prevented any further damage.

By now the Miasma had expanded enough to partially block the light and thankfully the sight of the eldritch creature.

"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE, FATEBREAKER?" Isaint wasn't sure if it was the Nightmare or Celedyr who screamed in his head.
"I released a bane, a mortal instrument, a weapon of mass destruction, developed to hold in check the power of an ancient artifact. It consumes your very essence and grows stronger by it. In the mundane world it's merely dangerous - but you released power here, power you thought you alone could use for your ends. And you were wrong.

In short: My eldritch abomination will eat your eldritch abomination.
"It was inevitable. By the toll of a billion deaths man has bought his birthright of the earth, and it is his against all comers; it would still be his were the Martians ten times as mighty as they are. For neither do men live nor die in vain.""

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-07-17/0020:13>

Deckard, in his Magician outfit, was ignoring pretty much everyone still passing through the Astral Gate and back to the ironically safer Below. All his attention was to the horizon, trying, with the help of a strange contraption of lenses - what was his goggle in his plane - to make up the details of what was happening at ground zero.

Part of him wanted to be with Al and ISaint, but the better part of him knew better. He had to make sure his Spirit was good with maintaining the unnatural speed he was granting them all. But he also knew that Robyn and himself were the last pillars should their two companions fail.

They would have to go back to Earth and destroy the Astral Gate...

All he could see from the distance was the Dragon and his Elementals, but what he felt was bad, evil, like a wave of despair and hatred. He look at Robyn and grabbed her hand. They'll both be back, very soon...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-07-17/1303:04>

Robyn squeezes Rick's hand in gratitude.  Her sensors do not have the range to allow her to see back to the now ruined temple, but her mind can picture what Al and ISaint are doing there and the danger they are in.  "I know, Rick, thanks.  He said he would be back and I will wait here for him because I believe that this is the only exit he knows about."

Suddenly, her sensors warn her of movement to their rear and she sees the shimmer of the gate just before the Iron Company starts coming through from Below.  Dressed as Roman Legionaires, they form up into organized units, waiting for the command to move forward.  Robyn sees four really huge trolls come through, each pulling a large catapult and she realizes that they have committed their Shock Guard, an elite unit.  And they are not alone.  Men and women dressed much like Rick come through to stand amid the ranks of the soldiers, bringing with them spirits of different kinds to patrol the flanks and act as scouts.  More people keep arriving even as the Iron Company vanguard sets off for the temple.  Words are said and spells are cast and the entire group begins to move with an almost impossible speed.

More Iron Company soldiers deploy through the gate to begin setting up defensive positions around the gate even as other people come through.  Some of these are monstrous and malformed and most are armed with what appears to be pitchforks or cleavers, with an odd assortment of swords and spears while others have hooks or metal claws for hands.  Two drakes walk among them, providing some direction as the rather large group moves off after the Iron Company.  The people of Below are going to war to defend their homes.

Robyn is so involved in watching the people around her that she almost misses the arrival of a third drake leading a huge Hell Hound and her heart skips a beat as Al2 walks up and sits at her feet as if nothing had happened.  She looks at the woman walking beside him and mouths a thank you as she sinks to her kneed beside the beast.  She stands and looks at Rick.  "I know you want to be there.  Why not go with these people and see if you can help?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-07-17/1335:35>

As Isaint gloated to the Abomination, Al saw from a distance that the hippie cavalry had arrived. "Well I'll shit pearls. This gon' be awkward...."

He slapped Isaint on the shoulder and said, "Powwow's over, baby. Places ta go, angry hippies ta warn off." Even as he spoke he was backpedaling quickly away from the FAB miasma, which was billowing and expanding exponentially. Soon the little man was forced to use all his demon-granted speed to stay ahead of the cloud, and he rushed toward the incoming reinforcements, waving his arms wildly. "GIT THE HELL BACK, DEGENERATES! 'FRAID WE DONE GONE SCORCHED EARTH ON THIS SUMBITCH - SO BEST GIT OUT WHILE THE GITTIN'S GOOD!"

They were already going to be persona non grata with these freaks for destroying their little alternate reality - didn't need the deaths of half their soldiery on their heads as well....

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-07-17/1428:53>

The vanguard of the Iron Company shifts position and rays of energy from weapons that look much like Al's flash out in the direction of the blue man.  A group of spirits and heinously misshapen monsters had appeared behind Al, racing to catch and destroy this.......this abomination that has dared to try to stop the summoning rite.  Has had the effrontery to actually harm their Mistress.  He must be stopped and brought back to face her anger.  These monsters have preternatural speed and are closing on the man rapidly when the spears of energy catch them.  They had focused too much on their prey that they had not noticed the new arrivals or, perhaps, had not judged them any sort of threat.  Howls of agony rise from tortured throats as the racing horrors writhe momentarily in a hitherto unknown agony before the creatures die, falling to the ground is pieces or just vanishing. 

Words are spoken and a group of people not dressed as soldiers steps forward, arms raised as one and a VOICE rings out from all the throats simultaneously.  A massive mana barrier of protective sorcery  goes up between the soldiers and the approaching miasma.  It would be hard to describe the effect when the billowing mass contacts the wall, but people would later describe it as something probably only even seen once in a lifetime, in a sort of pray that you never see it again sort of manner.  For a few moments, the wall holds then begins to fail rather dramatically as the FAB cloud begins to eat at it.  One of the wizards, old and wrinkled by years, turns to the commander of the Iron Company.  "The man speaks true, Colonel.  This is something that we probably cannot stop here.  The wall will hold for a bit, but you will have to pull back to the gate.  It needs to be closed so that what is here does not get to our homes.  Some of us will remain to reinforce the wall as best we can, but that will not last long.  It has been a pleasure serving with you.  See that my daughter..............well you know."

The two men clasp arms then the mage and several others he selects step forward and begin pouring their strength into the wall, reinforcing it where needed.  It is certain that this will only give the others a bit of extra time and they take advantage of it.  The Iron Company commander gives orders that must be obeyed and the unit turns to return to the gate.  He looks over at Al before leaving.  "You are a hero; you and your fellows, and your actions will not be forgotten.  The monstrosity that is being unleashed here would have taken all of us by surprise without your presence.  Will you come back with us or go to help your friend?"

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-07-17/1445:13>

Grateful, Isaint grabbed Al's hand to get on his feet again. The fall had taken more wind out of him than he realized. At least the Nightmare had other concerns for the moment.
"Shit, too late for the party but not too late to get into trouble."
The miasma had now found the center of the invocation circle and according to the flashes of lightning and black flames the entity was busy fighting back - likewise the FAB was busy eating up that extra energy. Isaint guessed that for every liter of burned or fried miasma it spawned three in response.

Reaching the protective globe did nothing to slow him down: "Don't stop to babble you fools, it eats magic..." underscored by the sudden dimming of the barrier.


He wanted to say more, but the incessant rage of his patron made him realize that Celedyr had just swooped down from the sky and landed behind him, sliding through the barrier as if it wasn't there. But before he could turn around, the Great Dragon had turned himself back into his meta human form and was passing towards the exit in an elegant but almost hasty way. 'I won't forget this, Pankratius.'  Then he was gone and the Flowers had a confused look on their face.

Isaint didn't care to elaborate. If a dragon fleeing wasn't enough of a hint, he wouldn't be able to get them to move faster. Instead he grabbed for Al's shoulder and pulled his friend with him towards the exit.

#517

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-07-17/1514:55>

What had been an advance becomes a retreat as the Iron Company host withdraws back to the gate.  Already the word has gone out to those following and they have also turned about, albeit in a more disorganized manner.  Robyn watches as her sensors begin to show the returning mob and she stops some to ask what is happening, being told that the plane is being eaten and that all must leave so that the gate can be closed.  She chokes on the question she most wants to ask and lets it sit unspoken on her lips.  Her faithful companion stands but does not leave, providing a bulwark against the tide of those who are.  Soon, the loos mob is gone, the drakes remaining to oversee the retreat.  Already the Iron Company defenders here have begun to dismantle the defensive positions that they had constructed and are awaiting orders.

The unnatural speed provided by the remaining wizards allows the main body of the  Iron Company to make good time in their retreat.  The huge mana barrier flickers once then again then collapses behind them.  The FAB miasma has destroyed the barrier but it was slowed for a time and its momentum is next to nothing for a brief minute before it begins expanding outward again, rolling over the forms of the wizards who had remained behind to reinforce the barrier.  It is certainly possible that the awakened among those retreating as well as those near the gate, can hear the tortured cries of their fellows before they are suddenly stilled. 

Robyn is not awakened and cannot hear the cries, but she sees the shock among the soldiers flowing past her and knows that something has happened.  Men reach out to take her arm; to guide her from this place, but she shakes them off.  Others are dissuaded from touching her by the monster that guards her.  She had said she would wait here on this spot and here she will wait.  So it is that the retreating Iron Company soldiers flow around this one person and her hound, as if a river moving past a boulder.  Robyn/Alyce has her sensors tuned for a particular person and is searching among those fleeing past her, hoping that this time he has kept his promise to come back for her.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-07-17/1652:48>

"Ol' Al's date's right here, Cap'n," Al replied to Hippie Commander, indicating Isaint as he came abreast. "Anyone else wants ta hang back, play hero, that's none o' my nevermind." He threw the man a salute as the big ork dragged him away back towards the Portal.

And then, in a half-orderly, half-panicked rush of soldiers and irregulars, they were through. Isaint was back to his look-of-the-week and Al's skin was no longer blue but his leather jacket brown again. Not knowing what sort of unnatural conflagration might accompany the sealing of the Rift, they kept moving, and immediately found Rick and Alyce. "Keep movin', people," Al said. "Lesbians hitched, unspeakable evil thwarted, an entire metaplane destroyed. Where I come from that makes it beer time."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-07-17/1725:52>

Alyce's sensors pick up Al as he approaches and she smiles that smile that every woman has when her man returns from a dangerous day at work.  She can no longer see him with her eyes but she hungrily looks him up and down, even as she shakes her head.  "Please, Al'  This place is still my home and I would like to see the portal closed and sealed and know that the people here are safe.  I am sure that it will not take long."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-07-17/1739:12>

Isaint didn't speak at once - instead he opened his third eye again to give himself and Al a once over. Fortunately the transition seemed to have restored the FAB back into the sealed hardshell case - or at least their corporeal one celled form. At least he could make out any contamination on Al or himself.
He gave Robyn a moment to hug Al before he replied to the short guy: "The loremaster of the dragons just a moment ago called me by my real first name - I definitely need a beer. And afterwards I might have to burn my real SIN and identity for good.
Not to mention what the Old One will have to say about the whole affair. Yeah, beer and dinner are definitive in order now.

As for waiting around: I have a simple rule in regard to accidents and catastrophes: If you aren't a helper you are in the way of the helpers."

#518

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-07-17/1826:41>

"You an' me thinkin' alike again, compadre. But reckon the lady's earned her show." His head trying to stay cool but his body betraying him, he disengaged from her embrace. "Man does have a point, toots. Yer jist seein' through a drone anyways...leave one close, an' we'll step back jist enough ta make sure we's no hindrance ta the Satanists. We'll stay close enough ta step in if things some way go south afore the job's done."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-07-17/1833:05>

Alyce nods and steps back, the wisdom of the advice overriding her concern.  She allows the men to lead her a bit away, but not too far.  "I can wait from here and not be in the way.  I can be of use if they need a physician."  She turns to ISaint.  "Do you think it worked?  And are you two clear of any sort of FAB infection?  There are enough mages right here to give you a clean up if you need it."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-08-17/0140:16>

Quote from: Mercy Merchant on <01-07-17/1303:04>

She stands and looks at Rick.  "I know you want to be there.  Why not go with these people and see if you can help?"

His comforting look dropped. Be there? Heck no! Love the thrill but ain't no fool enough to stay around a ground zero of the end of the world and surrounded by a FAB cloud.
Then he saw the Iron Company men and monsters marching in...
Guys, don't...  really... bad idea... Everyone were impervious to his plea. 


Al and ISaint made it back though, and in spite of the façade he was showing, boy he was happy to see them. Dragons, Drakes passing by, who cared? The people he could call his friends were back and safe. Waiting for everyone, he exited the plane...

Quote from: Jack_Spade on <01-07-17/1739:12>

"The loremaster of the dragons just a moment ago called me by my real first name - I definitely need a beer. And afterwards I might have to burn my real SIN and identity for good.
Not to mention what the Old One will have to say about the whole affair. Yeah, beer and dinner are definitive in order now.

As for waiting around: I have a simple rule in regard to accidents and catastrophes: If you aren't a helper you are in the way of the helpers."

Well, beer and dinner is on me, where ever that is. Nice job guys.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-09-17/0424:09>

Isaint nodded, taking the compromise and went with the group to a place out of sight. Only then did he take of his helmet. The hair on his beard and head had turned grey white, his eyes looked sunken and his skin looked somehow brittle.
Now that the rush of the adrenaline had subsided he felt every bone and muscle in his body hurting.
"After beer and dinner I'll have to take my leave from you for a while. Not only have I an old life to leave behind but also a Nightmare mark to get rid off. I know a guy from the Vatican that might be able to help me with that. Great exorcist but not really a people person.
But I don't want to give up this team, so I'll be back."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-09-17/0744:43>

Isaint's mention of not wanting to 'give up this team' sent an unexpected shiver of wariness through Al's liver. He had tremendous respect for Tusker-of-a-Thousand-Faces, and would work with him anytime, so it took him a moment to figure out why he inwardly cringed at the ork's words.

He supposed that any acknowledgement of a 'team' meant acknowledging that he was actually planning on continuing this line of work. To be sure it had been an interesting year, but, well, the idea of committing to any particular vocation for, to be fair, any length of time was a bit off-putting. And that went double or triple for personal associations. People came, people went. Friendships were all fine and dandy, but once they reached the point where they required time and maintenance...next thing you knew you couldn't decide what trid program to watch without consulting someone first.

Long and the short of it, what Isaint had said had held a hint of a suggestion of a wink at permanence - Al's archenemy.

The answer, of course, as with all philosophical conundrums, was to shrug and not give it a second thought. Que sera sera, and all that frog crap.

In the short distance, there was a surreal sound - or rather a sort of reversal of sound - as the rift they'd gone into and come back through fell into itself and was gone. A few of the gathered Satanists cheered, and Al figured that was par for the hippie course - already partying before their friends' bodies were cold.

But that was no matter to him - his own friends were all alive and well, and their next stop was beer and victuals.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-09-17/1231:13>

In the restaurant, Robyn orders food but is a bit unsure of the beer as she has never been a big beer drinker.  She needn't have worried. The beer tastes great going down.  After a few bites, she looks at her companions and realizes that she will miss ISaint and Rick if they just go off.  She gives a tentative smile and says, "Hey, I know this might sound crazy to you guys, but, although I have actually seen both you, ISaint and you, Rick, I would like to trace your faces into my memory.  Would you mind if I touched you?"  She blushes a bit.  "I already have Al memorized."

She reaches down and slips a snack to Al2 and pats the massive head of her Hell Hound companion.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-09-17/1403:13>

"Heh," Al sniggered, "Good luck with the boss man.  Changes his features like his damned shorts."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-09-17/1516:04>

Robyn ignores Al quip and waits to see if ISaint will allow her to put her hands on his face.  "By the way, Al, you blew up my cello.  Fortunately, it was not the really old one, but still, that cost me a very pretty nuyen.  I will need to find a replacement for it."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-09-17/1647:04>

"Whaaat? Warn't that jist some sorta metawhatsical reppersentation o' the real one? Hell, I lit off all o' that TNT the bossman done cooked up for me, an' here it safe an' sound back in my bag...But if it's a new fiddle ya need, well, cash ain't much of a problem, these days...."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-09-17/1655:52>

Robyn shakes her head,  "No Al, I am not asking you to replace it.  I can do that very well, myself and I actually have had an eye on a new one for a while now.  But thank you for offering."

She looks around at the others.  "I have to say this has been a real event for me.  Thank you for asking me along.  I know that you are all going to split up and I hope that you will think of me if you ever need a hacker or physician in the future.  Or maybe just ask me along for some comedy relief or something.  I hope that I can reach out to each of you if I have a need.  Any of you are always welcome at my home here in Below or up in the Overworld."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-09-17/1708:26>

Isaint shrugged and then realized that this wasn't necessarily enough communication for a blind woman - even one as extraordinary adept as Robyn:
"If you want to... Just to warn you, that fight took a lot more out of me than I thought, so I'm not looking my best right now, neither do I feel the best.

And don't worry. As I said I plan to come back to London. Maybe we can even find a boring job as personal security or private investigators. You know, mostly dull work with little chance of meeting Lorekeepers and wet dreams of Hentai animators."

He opened his mouth to speak further, but closed it again, falling silent. A very worried look had fallen on his tired eyes.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-09-17/1927:23>

Robyn looks closely at ISaint and sends him a message.  >>You must know by now that my natural senses are improved a good deal past normal and that I can tell that you are concerned.  Is it something about  me that disturbs you?<<

While she waits for an answer, she reaches her arms across the table and passes her hands along his facial features, planting every crack and crease into her memory, as well as his smell and the way he reacts to her touch.  She sits back in her seat.  "Thank you very much."  She then turns to Rick, waiting to see if he will let her touch him.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-09-17/2245:13>

When one comes close to the brink of Death, simple food and a good pint of beer always taste delicious. Sure it wasn't the first time for Deckard. But usually only his own life is at risk, not the entire earth population. It was going to take some time to really feels and witness the repercussions of what just had happened. For now, his full attention would be on the food and beer. And as per his Mentor Spirit, he was making a feast of every plate around him.

It was with a mouth full that Deckard was taken aback when Robyn/Alyce was asking to touch him and ISaint. He quickly understood what exactly she meant and as she started with ISaint, he had enough time to finish chewing and swallowing before agreeing for her to do the same to him.

Her touch was soft; he had to swallow the knot in his throat. Vivid images of Cora, his deceased wife flashed in his mind as the touch reminded him how Cora liked to gently wake him up...

She was done, he was embarrassed.  So...  he tried to change the mood, there's a good chance we're still on the Wanted list up there. But between you and I, I'm quite eager to have the sun shine on my face for a few minutes. Not that it  does often in London, but you know what I mean... That said, I have a contact at Scotland Yard. I can check with him what our Status, and see if he could do anything about our files. Not sure he has the pull for much, but it's worth a try...

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <01-09-17/2302:50>

Robyn finishes with Rick's face and sits back in her seat, nodding.  "Thank you, gentlemen.  And as it happens, I know more than a few people in the Overworld that might help us, including a couple at the New Yard.  They are not really close, mind, but we are on speaking terms and they might help.  My contacts with some AAAs are better and might be able to do more.  Just say the word and I can try."

"There is also the question of what to do with Yukika, Jackhammer, and Iris."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-10-17/0543:25>

"Give them the best care we can and hope their minds return. Somewhere sunny and warm. Preferably not with an AAA. I don't trust those guys to not abuse their current condition.
I know a nice monastery in South Tyrol who have a lot of experience with people harmed by spirits. I'll stop by there on my way to Rome."

to Robyn's private message he replied:
<<Nothing about you, don't you worry. For once I'm concerned about myself. The Nightmare had or has some connection to me that reminds me of a fellow that made a spirit pact - saved his life from a sudden violent death, but the spirit began siphoning his life force away. Died at 29 looking like 92.
It could have just been the close proximity to that eldrich being, but... let's say I've got some work to do before I'm save to work again.>>

"Regarding our problems with the law: I don't think they identified us, but it is good to get some reliable info. But leaving London for a while surely won't hurt."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: adamu on <01-10-17/0823:31>

Al was enjoying the satisfaction not only of a meal and beer, but also seeing a lot of annoyances quickly wrapped up. Looked like Isaint had just the recipe for their damaged comrades, and was going to see to it himself. Helluva leader.

And, like the others, he had his own people with ties to the constabulary. Tempting as it was in this sort of situation, however, reaching out to them put them at risk. No need to burn them if unnecessary, and he'd already burned his old IDs and gotten new ones the last time he'd been up.

He was a little curious how the Molepeople were going to react to their bio-nuking their favorite fake world. But here they were eating and drinking and mobs of hopped-up hippies had not attacked them...yet. Maybe the powers that be had done something with the lights.

So he would very shortly be going home to Spike and leaving this nightmare realm behind him forever (for the second time). Leaving only one more loose end....

She was smoking hot. And infuriating enough to be interesting. And she was a lot like the girl he'd known eight years ago. A lot like...but not the same. Though he wasn't sure how much of the change was her, and how much himself.

He would have to...get to?...needed to?...spend some time with her now. For a man that pretty much always knew exactly what he wanted, the mixed feelings her felt were difficult to manage....but that sort of thinking was annoying at best. He would take her out and...well, it wasn't as though anything could happen that he didn't want to have happen.

Right?

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-11-17/1015:49>

[spoiler]Illness Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/474263): 12d6t5 1
Fail[/spoiler]

Logistics. Isaint didn't remember where he'd read it but he couldn't get it out of his head anymore: Amateurs discuss tactics but professional soldiers study logistics.
Isaint felt the truth of this line as he dismantled his current presence in the UK and got his gear stashed in the country side. The drone workshop now held Arthur, the Aeroquip and some of his weapons. The more illegal ones he had buried alongside the explosives a few miles outside Oxford, ready for his return.
The rented cottage was clean now - he even had repaired a few pieces that the landlord had promised he would take care off. The walls gleamed from the fresh coat of white paint and any trace of his occupation was gone. True, he wasn't exactly the type to hang pictures on the wall and care for potted plants, but in a way this had been home and now no longer was.

Everything was clean, the only thing to do was leave the key in the letterbox. He avoided looking into the hall mirror. Despite his best efforts there was still grey in his hair now, no matter how long he would grow them. Likewise his skin stayed pale and a bit waxy. Something was wrong but he had refused to do anything beyond a routine check up at the hospital. He still took the super antibiotics and whatever was ailing him, he was pretty sure that mundane medicine wouldn't have the answer. No, it was better go straight to the specialists.

It would be a long ride with the rented transporter, crossing the channel by ferry and driving through France and half the ADL with two heavily sedated runners in the two Valkyrie Modules. Even asleep Jackhammer looked slightly menacing while Iris looked deceptively serene. 'Sleeping beauty and the beast... I think i might have mixed up my fairy-tales a bit.'

His contact assured him, that the documents for the special care transport where all in order, but he couldn't shake the latent nervousness about how wrong this could go. Fucking logistics again. Getting from A to B without alerting the Cops. Even though he had always tried to keep his nose relatively clean and stay under the radar he too had committed felonies and maybe even shed one or two hairs that could lead the authorities to this real SIN. This last gig in London was just the tip of the iceberg - a tip on that fucking Celedyr himself was now sitting and winking at him.
Isaint was still unsure if it was better that the Great Dragon had not succumbed to the Miasma or not. Being involved in the death of one of the great lizards would have had all kinds of negative consequences, maybe even another war, at any rate a lot of deaths. But that was why the dragons were dangerous: Not because they could eat people and do magic things. But because they were corrupters, accumulating power, controlling and making people dependent. There greatest trick was that they arranged their death to be as inconvenient as possible, so that the inconvenience of their continued involvement in the affairs of men seemed tolerable in comparison.

Yet for him personally this meant that keeping ties to his family and his old life was now a luxury he could no longer afford. He had called his eldest brother and explained the situation to him. Tim hadn't been happy - how could he - but he had understood... eventually. It was a simple plan, really. He'd meet his family for a last time and afterwards they would call the police on him and disown him. Isaint didn't like to think about the crime he supposedly would have committed - it was just too horrific - but it was the only way anyone investigating would believe that all ties to his family were irrevocably broken. After that it would be a simple matter to fake his death and have a certain hacker contact of Darren corrupting his records before they were archived again.

Expensive but not overly so. At least where money was concerned. It certainly wouldn't stop the dragon from finding him if he should set his mind on it, but it might just be enough inconvenience that Celedyr decided that he had more important things to do.

And anyway, the way he felt right now it might be better to say goodbye while he was able to do so. His parents had themselves already gone beyond the projected age for the homo robustus metatype, but sooner or later age would catch up with all of them.

With this gloomy thought he closed the front door, got into the transporter and set off towards the south of England to catch his ride with the ferryman. Fragging logistics. 

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-12-17/1819:03>

25 km away from Meran Isaint had stopped the car and taken the opportunity to enjoy the rising sun as well as the few ablutions a simple survival kit could offer.
He hadn't slept since the start of the drive from Munich. Instead he had used the meditation technique his mentor had taught him to keep fatigue at bay while the car steered itself for the most part.
Around him the fantastic panorama of the Alps stretched along the horizon until the view was lost in the early morning mist. The monastery was close now but out of sight in a small valley to the north-east.

A sheltered place with good people, ready to lent aid where it was needed but likewise ready to give you a slap to get you back on track if they felt it necessary. Isaint thought about his family, his mother and father in their small flat where they had raised four children, making sure they got a better education than they had gotten. They had sacrificed much for their children, but 10 grandchildren from three of their kids was a good return of investment. Isaint knew that they were disappointed about his life choices - insofar as he had told them what he did. He never had told them why or how he had lost the two loves of his life - the details were to gruesome, not to mention potentially dangerous for a retired machinist and a kindergarden teacher. In hindsight he probably should have told them a little bit more. It had been quite a shock to learn that their middle son had involved himself in illegal activities and now would have to say goodbye forever.
His mother had cried, while his father had kept his stoic face but avoided looking directly at him.
Michael, his younger brother had spoken his mind as always. "Stupid asshole" had been used in equal measure to "just don't get killed - I mean beside your plan to die in a fire".
But in the end they hadn't argued against it anymore. His brothers and sister because they had to think of their own families and his parents because... well, because Isaint had asked them to.

Isaint checked the time. About now the black sheriffs would be pulling a badly burned ork body from his rental car. Tim was the one who had made the police report that his brother Pankratius had threatened their parents and tried to kill him and his daughter. They said it was like he was possessed and that he probably had got a mana psychosis or some such. A dishonorable discharge from his family so to speak.

Isaint went back to the car to check the two valkyrie modules. Both patients were kept in an artificial coma during which the autodoc could care for their physical needs and where they would be free of dreams and nightmares. True oblivion - something in Isaint longed for that too. It would be easy, just walk to the edge of the street, climb over the fence and let gravity do its job. Isaint recognized the intrusive thought almost immediately and built his mental barriers back up, closing the breach he had opened by reminiscing about what he had just lost. There were people depending on him for protection. Taking the easy way out would let everyone down.

He went back to the car and started the engine. Wallowing in depression at the edge of a cliff was a past time you should avoid while you still suffered from a mysterious connection to a malevolent spirit.

And who knew? Maybe Father Antonio did know a cure - beside confessions and Ave Marias...   

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-13-17/0914:16>

[spoiler]
Second month, this time with medicine for 1500 nuyen/month, reducing the threshold by one:
Sickness Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/474893): 12d6t5 3
Sympthoms under control

[/spoiler]


The heat was sweltering beneath the helmet as Isaint was speeding away from Milano, a new outfit securely bundled up in the saddle backs of his BMW bike. He had been really surprised that Father Antonio had kept it over all these years - and in top condition. But a look at the odometer had confirmed his suspicion, that the good father actually had been riding it regularly. That brought a grin to his face. The man had gotten older but still had kept that youthful attitude of wonder and excitement. Not a bad feature for a man of the cloth.

Going to Rome in the summer months wasn't the best idea, he knew, but Brother Grigori just happened to be holed up in the library of the Vatican, so that was where he would go now.
At least he felt a bit better now. He was able to change his appearance again without having to look old in each iteration. The three weeks had been like a vacation: Helping the fratres tend to the gardens, a bit of renovation, introducing Jackhammer and Iris to their new surroundings, attending mass and going to confession...

Father Antonio actually had asked for a pee-break and hit had gotten actually dark when they left the church. But he had felt better afterwards. Maybe he should ask Rick to come here too. His friend had looked as if he could use a bit of soul care himself.

But most of all he had meditated, keeping at bay the need to sleep while simultaneously preparing his body for the next level of initiation.

As for his malady... Antonio had deduced that it was something that leeched power from him through the astral. To counter it he had prepared a salve made from olives grown in the cloister and some other things he hadn't specified but Isaint suspected to be mountain flowers. With his third eye open he could see the warm aura of the poultice. The analogy Antonio made was that it was like freezing to death as your body can't hold your heat anymore. The salve was like an insulating layer of fat, reducing the heat loss. Only that he wasn't losing heat, but his life force.
Now he had three months worth of the stuff with him. And although Antonio hadn't said anything, Isaint had immediately transferred a tidy sum to the cloister.

Isaint figured that he would have to solve this problem before too long or there wouldn't be left enough of him to continue the treatment.

So now, after visiting an old acquaintance in the fashion industry for a new outfit that would allow him to enter the Vatican without looking like a mercenary or a bum, he would have to ask the help of one of the world's top exorcists to get his life back on track.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-15-17/1804:55>

Rome, the eternal city at noon in summer was interesting. Isaint had been here only two times before and only during the winter months. He quickly suppressed the memory of his last visit. It had been ugly.
The hotel he had chosen was quite close to Vatican city, but that's where the benefits ended. The water was rationed and had a distinctly metallic taste to it. Isaint's latest acquisition, a small chem sniffer ring, had confirmed that somehow the landlord had managed to keep lead pipes over 15 decades. Air conditioning was non-functional and the small window seemed only to be able to let hot air in. Nevertheless, Isaint was satisfied with his choice: The price was reasonable, the door lock functional and the room quite defensible. He had checked in two days ago. Casing out the area, registering changes around, remembering quick exit strategies and developing new ones. Old habits died hard - especially if you had made some mafiosos really angry once upon a time.

He'd just put on his new suit when he finally heard the knock on the door. He had been aware of her standing in front of it for a good five minutes. It was actually quite cute and if he hadn't been busy preparing for his meeting he would have put her out of her misery quite a bit sooner.
As he opened the door he made sure that his weapons where out of sight.
"Hello, what can I do for you?"  The elf girl in the maid uniform was visibly shocked how swiftly he had opened the door.
"I... I... was just wondering..." Isaint noticed that she had changed her make up from when he had seen her in the morning. Quite a bit darker but not unskilled applied. she even wore white gloves. 'Shit, a teenager with a crush on me. Why does this happen to me now and not when I was a teenager myself?'
"The room is just fine, thanks for asking." Isaint replied with a bit of fake cheer. He had noticed the girl at breakfast this morning looking at him, but hadn't thought anything off it. 'It's always teenagers when I'm in Rome...'
"No, I, I was... I wanted to tell you..." She had chosen a rather wide open décolleté, he could even spot the beginnings of a tattoo that probably went down towards her sides. Roses he guessed. 'Now just wait a minute.' The hair on the back of his neck was standing up and he felt the familiar buzz. The reason why something like this didn't happen to me is, that I don't live in a fragging porno, that's why...'
"Do you like what you see?"

Isaint didn't bother with an answer and dived to the side - just in time as the girl was suddenly ramming her fist with an extended cyberspur at his face. He could smell the oily, bitter coating as it passed a mere centimeter in front of his nostrils.

Several things clicked at this moment into place.
1) No apparent 16 year old elf girl in a maid uniform was ever going to fall for him hard enough that she came to his room.
2) There wasn't a rose tattoo on this shapely body but a black snake intertwined with briar strands, winding around her down to her left calf.
3) This cybered up assassin had covered her spur in something nasty, with even a prick being enough to ko him.
4) His appointment with the exorcist had somehow been leaked to Fernando Bruno and he had sent a petite, face lifted killer elf after him.
5) If he didn't come up with a good idea right now he was going to be fucked...

The assassin moved with incredible speed and grace, like a ballet dancer on Kamikaze - which she probably was in addition to her cyberware. Isaint was dodging, but rapidly run out of room. 'Should have spend the extra cash for a larger room.'   He threw himself over the bed, trying to land a kick of his own, but she evaded easily. Without his strengthening prayer or his weapon focus he certainly was no match for the murder elf specialized in hand to hand combat. And he hadn't bothered to pack any of his guns or tasers for the short walk to the Vatican where the Swiss Guard certainly wouldn't have let him after finding a small weapons arsenal on him.
She was faster than him, blocking the door and the window, leaving him only the tiny bathroom to retreat. 
"There is no way out for you. I assure you it won't hurt. Just a tiny prick and it will be over."
"The only tiny prick is your boss. How about I double your fee and you leave?"
"How about I kill you and take whatever you have as a bonus?"
And she attacked - seamlessly, without a tell, launching herself across the room. Isaint was ready. He might not have her superhuman, drug enhanced agility, but he had very nearly the fastest reflexes a meta human could have without relying on some of the most expensive cyberware on the market. He caught her extended spur with the briefcase, closing it hard on her wrist while simultaneously pivoting around. She might have had the grace of the angel of death himself, but Isaint had her beat were poor mass was concerned: 50 odd kilos connected to roughly double that amount didn't stand a chance of resisting the pull: Isaint wrenched the would be assassin around, slinging her into the bathroom. With irritation the chivalrous part of his being noticed as her head collided with the door frame and took a small chunk out of the cheap, fake wood veneer. But he didn't let that slow him down. Still clasping the briefcase lid with his left hand, he grabbed her hair and began slamming her face into the washing basin. He only stopped when he felt no more resistance from her. He tasted blood on his lips and for a moment he didn't know if it was from her or if he had bitten his tongue.

With great gulps he sucked in the stale air of his room. It hadn't been more than 10 seconds from start to finish, but he felt like he just ran a marathon.
Just to be sure he took her pulse (none) before closing the still open exit door. He readjusted his trode net and sent a quick message to his contact: <<Brother Grigori I'm afraid someone got wind of me being back in Rome. I'll have to clean up a bit before I can meet you, so please excuse me when I'll be an hour late.>>

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-17-17/1435:18>

Isaint walked past the ambulances, sparing only a cursory glance. It seemed a young woman had jumped from the roof of the hotel and splattered on the cobblestones.

He had already packed and paid for his room. One way or the other his stay in Rome was going to be short. Reaching the wall that separated Rome from the Vatican he kept walking until he reached a small ungarded door. He knocked three times and waited. A burly Swiss Guard opened - not one of the ones with the colorful suit, but one of the suit wearing ones - and gave him a critical once over.
In heavily accented Italian Isaint said: "I've got an appointment with Brother Grigori." The man nodded and stepped aside to allow Isaint access.
"Take off your shoes, mantle, belt and all weapons, foci and other gear you carry."
Isaint shrugged and began to disarm, leaving even the jacket behind. The guard twitched his nose once when he smelled the salve with which Isaint had covered his upper body, but didn't comment. It didn't smell bad as such but distinctly reminded of a potpourri someone had dropped into olive oil.

Barefoot and only covered with shirt and trousers he  made his way into a small chapel. It was dark inside except for the spot around the altar where the sun's rays were focused through a large glass lens in the ceiling. For a moment Isaint wondered if there was a mirror up there that was adjusted to bring sunlight inside at any time of day. He was pretty certain that this chapel hadn't existed 20 years before or he would have read about it. Just outside the circle of sunshine he could make out a person in a hooded monk's robe, but the glare made it impossible to see it clearly.
"Brother Grigori. I greet you. It's been a while."
"Pankratius."
A pause followed until Grigori said: "How long do you intend to stand there? Get your ass over to the altar and stand in the light."
Isaint did as he was told, noticing that the light felt quite hot compared to the coolness of the room. The salve began to get very viscous, soaking through his shirt and amplifying the smell.
"Good, at least you aren't a vampire - yet."
"I don't think I'd turn into a vampire. My kind turn into hairy cannibal mages."
"You know nothing. Everyone can turn into a Sanguis Ducte."
"I may not be a vampire, but this spot is quite hot..."
"Stay there regardless, or rather get on the altar. I need the light to see what I'm dealing with."
With a suppressed sigh, Isaint followed the instructions. The sandstone was uncomfortably hot and Isaint felt distinctively like an egg in a pan.
"A quite remarkable story you've told me. Demon possession is becoming a lot more common than it was." Grigori finally had stepped into the light and Isaint was able to see the bearded face of the old Romanian. One of his eyes was covered with a patch and his face was crisscrossed with faint, silvery scars. Isaint also saw the wooden crucifix in the left and the silver dagger in the right hand.
"This might hurt a little, try to keep still."
Isaint wanted to speak but the old man had moved the dagger with amazing speed and precision, leaving short, shallow cut along his forearm, blood began to trickle slowly down onto the altar.
"Are you sure you are still a Catholic and not an Aztec priest?"
"Quit your blathering, I've got to concentrate. Hm, yes. There it is."
Isaint kept still and resigned to his fate while his blood and sweat soaked the altar.
"Get up and clean yourself a bit. You look and smell like a piglet."
"So what is it? Father Antonio said I was getting drained of life from afar."
"Antonio might know his weeds, but he should shut up about more complicated things. You definitely have been touched by a strong demon. I think he forged a partial lifebond with you. That's how he could find you and follow you to that meta plane."
"I thought you had to be willing to enter such a pact?"
"Did I say anything about a pact? It's a bond and a subtle one at that. You aren't losing life exactly. It's more like your... well the Chinese would call it Chi... is short circuited . Just enough to allow that demon to use you as a beacon. Once that thing goes back to hell that should be gone as well."
"I'm not sure if the think can return to it's metaplane. As I told you, it got caught by a swarm of mana eating bacteria."
"Hm, that might be a problem. They could have inherited the link. Interesting though. I'll have to study that. No matter how bad you feel, you probably won't die from it. Probably. Just keep using that disgusting ointment until I contact you. And now get out of here, I have to take care of the one who betrayed your return to Bruno. Vada con dio."

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: Jack_Spade on <01-23-17/0631:10>

The shutter rattled as if the whole structure would come done any second as Isaint entered his storage.
It had taken a bit more than a month to get from Italy back to Britain. Beside a slight detour to the cloister to visit his sick chummers and to refill his medicine he had taken a small security job in Vienna - above board and with a brand new Identity. Just a weekend to accompany two bratty Tir princes to the opera and all the other nice cultural things Austria's capital was famous for - plus of course all the other seedy places young rich people wanted to visit. The meditation technique allowed him to avoid sleep altogether - especially since he now had gotten into the habit of switching into the relax state whenever he had a minute. Beside an attempted robbery the whole gig had been quite boring and the two elf boys were now safely back in Ireland.
At least it had helped him get over the fact that he couldn't visit his family anymore. He couldn't remember consciously deciding to return to London, but he felt something like anticipatory happiness when he red the confirmation matrix-message for the ferry ride to Dover.
He wondered, what Arrangement Al and Robyn would have found for their wildly differing lifestyles. And what Rick had been up to. A powerful mage like him certainly had no trouble to find employment...

Yet for some reason he pushed back contacting the team.
It made sense after all to get your shit together before you started to make calls. Isaint knew himself good enough to know when he was making excuses. They had worked well enough together, complementing each other's abilities and even shared camaraderie around the camp fire - so to speak.
But as always there was that nagging feeling, that they were mere colleagues instead of friends. He had lost most of his friends, all his lovers and now probably all ties to his family as well. That left him with an extensive network of contacts and trusted chummers, but it had been years since he found himself with a group he readily wanted to be friends with. Better to postpone a potential disappointment.

So now he was getting all his stuff (and it had become quite a lot in the last half year) into his new domicile. The drones were quite helpful at that, carrying all the weapons, ammunition, armor, some more weapon and weapon related gear, tools and last but not least furniture into the waiting truck.   

During the trip he wondered again how his fixer always got to know so quickly about new available places. True, he wasn't looking for something in the city, but still the new dig was great: A small flat integrated into an old warehouse with enough room to set up his drone shop.

There were very little personal items - Isaint had long ago given up forming attachment to objects. There was always the possibility that he had to torch everything and leg it. Or - a he had learned while they had stayed at Al's place - someone might summon a super fire elemental and do it for you.

Finally, everything was in order, the drones were working on his guns and he had entirely run out of things to do instead of phoning his chummers.
'Well, time to get back into the game...'


#527

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-26-17/0212:16>

And here he was. Above. Outside. Deckard just stood there for a moment, appreciating the drizzling rain dripping down his face and coat, as to wash off the evil of Below. The cold breeze would soon start to chill him, but for now he enjoyed its freshness -consciously putting aside the knowledge of pollution in London. It was rejuvenating. He took a deep breath letting the scents spark his memory and exhale slowly. He was alone in the street. So he walked, no minding getting rained on. He welcomed his return to a more 'normal' society. 

He caught a cab, a little more walk, then went to pick up his bike. Less than an hour and he was home. Finally. The Apartment was modest but comfy. Most of the bedroom was transformed into his 'study', an eclectic mix and match of many traditions, that formed his Lodge, of his Sanctuary as he liked to call it. The living room and kitchen shared the same room but it was big enough to not feel like he was watching the trids in the kitchen, and also partly due to the very comfortable couch separating the two. The Apartment was on the fourth and top floor; Deckard's probably favorite feature for he had a quick access to the rooftop.

He hanged his wet clothes, looking forward to send everything to the cleaner and went straight for the shower in which he stayed forever, as if London's water was enough to cleanse him his experience. Finally clean, dry and warm, the Mage collapsed on his bed and within  few seconds was sound asleep.

Deckard opened his eyes. The day was coming to dusk. He turned on his commlink and realized he had slept for more than 48 hours! Yet all he remembered was laying down after the well deserved hot shower. He sat on the bed, pondering about the past events. It was time to get back to a more 'normal' life. Fighting Horrors along a Great Dragon wasn't something he wished to be doing very often, if ever even.

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-26-17/0221:03>

The long greasy blond hair of the emaciated man half covered his face and looking at him, Deckard wondered how the man could see the delicate work he was performing. He was "Trigger". He was a relatively young human, a little younger than Deckard maybe, but the wear and tear on his face added easily an extra 10 year. He was a man of a few words, but also Deckard's go to person for any gear related problems. Procurement wasn't his forte, probably a lack of proper connections, but if totally illegal items were not really to be considered, he had, in the past, got his hand on a few restricted item for Deckard and he was good with Ammo, all sort. What the Mage appreciated in the Armorer, however, was his skill at fixing and maintaining things. Most importantly, the man had always handle with care and respect the maintenance of Deckard's father's Ruger Superhawk.
The place they were was Trigger's workshop - a hidden room in the back of an isolated Stuffer Shack that could use some organizing and cleaning and certainly some fresh air. Crates, electronics part, damaged drones, empty food containers all litter the place, floor and shells.
So? asked Deckard
"So you should stop looking over my shoulder like a grumpy tutor. That ain't gonna make me work faster. "
Sorry. Deckard stepped back and roamed the small room, worried he probably break something if he touched anything.
"Well I'm done, anyway." Trigger offered back the heavy revolver that once belonged to Deckard's father. "Your gun is in perfect condition, you worry too much. It has been harden, believe me it can take a beating before it start malfunctioning. Beside, the flashlight under it is the only thing with a bit of electronics. You don't even have to worry about hackers and all."
Deckard approached and gently took the weapon, inspecting it a few seconds before holstering it back in his coat.
"You look stressed. "Trigger said, very randomly.
Me stressed? Nah, things are actually pretty quiet lately.
"What's with the shake, then?" He pointed at the Mage's hand.
Deckard lifted and looked at his own hand. His fingers were twitching with tremors. Again. Drek.

...Just ah... a little impatient I guess. He put his hand in his pocket. And changed subject, I send you list of some gear I'd like to get my hands on (terrible at changing subject on top of that!). Any luck?
"Yeah, your protections are pretty basic and even legal. The mask, it'll take me a few more days to install the required electronics.  "

Perfect, I'll transfer you the sum as agreed. Ping me when you're done.

"You got it Pal. "

Title: Re: [5e IC] Call of Fate [2076 Game Thread]
Post by: obidancer on <01-26-17/1135:59>

Deckard was sipping a drink in this low key lounge not far from West Elm. It had been yet again another 'black night' as he now called it. A dreamless night, just fall asleep and wake up, no a single image to recollect. He had been expecting some nightmares after the events in Lyonese. But instead it seemed he was barred from any dream. Some would say he had picked the right straw, but for a Magician like him, he had learn to appreciate and analyze his dreams and the visions, clues and understandings had strong impact in his understanding of the Mystical Arts.

But above all, his dreams had been the only place where he could still interact with his deceased wife. He felt like he was missing something now. Like his broken heart had taken over... That and -though sporadicly- the shaking had persisted.
 
"Prosto paren', kotorogo my ishchem" he heard behind him. He didn't have to turn around to know who they were. But he did, twisting around the bar stool. His two Russian friends, Alexander's goons. The taller and most imposing was a Troll with enough scars on his face to wonder if he was trying to shave with a Monowhip. The shorter of the two was nonetheless a force of nature; a Human at least two heads taller than Rick.  Alexander Dimitrov was the guy who had loaned him the huge sum he needed to keep paying for his wife's hospital care. Alexander was not a guy to mess with; clear ties with the Mafia and of course there were certainly a few people ahead of him in the 'hierarchy'. In other word, dispatching him was not a really an option worth the trouble.

"Comrades!" Deckard said opening his arms in an inviting motion. "I was just on my way to pay your boss Sasha"
"Mister Alexander Dimitrov don't like late payers."
"Late? No, no. no. I have till the end of the week. A deal is deal, I've been paying fair and square... mostly." The Troll grinned, certainly remembering the poor soul he last last beat up. "And seriously, I can pay him and... the tab is opened, why don't I get you fine gentlemen a drink... or two.
The two goons looked at each others and nodded.
"Deckard, my friend, let me show you how it's done. Bartender. Vodka!"

Two hours later, the trio had moved to a more private booth. The Troll's broken english was now barely understandable. The second bottle of expansive Vodka was almost empty. The big human was quiet, doing some contortions with his face, trying to chase away the heavy hit of the alcohol. Deckard was supposed to be in a coma right now; trying to compete against a Russian Troll was a stupid idea. Yet he was still standing - well, seated - to the wonder of everyone else. A subtle Detox spell had been enough to take care of the alcohol, the rest was all about his acting skill. He tried to 'look' drunk. He poured the remaining of what was in the bottle in the Troll's glass, And rose his, mumbling some sounds like 'Nasdrovia' or something like this. The Troll chug his glass. After a short pause, he held a burp, got up and stumbled his way toward the bathroom.

Deckard turned toward the Big Russian with a nonchalant grin:
Let's go see Alexander! ...