Shadowrun

Shadowrun Play => Play-by-Post => Topic started by: ismilealot on <04-04-17/2322:54>

Title: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-04-17/2322:54>
The clouds were gone from the sky, the snow cleared from the streets, and the night was bone-chillingly cold.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-06-17/1539:22>
The evening was cold, and the night was going to be colder, but the coldest of them all was Blackbird. He walked to the Dom Polski and his thoughts raced. Memories, so many memories - he was resisting but always passively. Previously he had ideals, pacifism he had some noble goal to fight for. What now? It all faded away. Perhaps this is what being an adult was about, taking responsibility on your life. "Perhaps I am growing up, seeing the world for what it is. Accepting my own impotence to change it and focusing on the only thing that I can change - my own story. "

Blackbird checked the astral around him frequently - part of it was being cautious while another part was seeing his favorite peacock and doing the astrally equivalent of smiling. His alone days were over, Marco could always sense the presence of his bounded spirits. He changed them and they changed him, his eyes were open now - his mind was open. There were fewer answers and more observations - the black and whites have faded into greys. The newly crafted power focus proved extremely useful - it amplified Marco's emotions to new heights.  Unlike his surrounding, he was not slave to his emotions - he was their master. He forgave Sam, forgave Yelena and most importantly forgave himself. His concerns were no longer about his past... "the past is just an illusion, revenge is empty I turn to the future. I opened my third eye and discovered my courage to find out what I really am and how I can break free from my masters. Today is the first day of my new life."

The Dom Polski was an expensive restaurant, with live traditional polish music, and private tables. As Blackbird arrived, the hostess quickly showed him to his booth where the wine of his selection was already unbottled and waiting in the perfect temperature for consumption. Blackbird purred a glass of red wine and begun playing with it, smelling it. "I can kill a man and just move on with my life like nothing happened. Perhaps I am an assassin after all... My masters taught me well." He thoughts as he nursed the wine glass, waiting for his comrade to join.


Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-06-17/1739:38>
Perhaps the most gorgeous man Marco had ever seen walked into the restaurant wearing a perfectly tailored Tain Morgana suit. The deference of the waiter was immediate d Marco saw the man turn to the maître 'de with a relaxed, easy mannerism. Marco couldn't see the man's question, but from the shake of the maître de's head, he was guessing the answer was no.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-07-17/0143:17>
Marco briefly assensed the man, would probably wont be very useful but new senses required some getting used to. He checked the man and the suit trying to take some style notes. He rose from his seat and walked to greet the man, he introduced himself  John Black.



[spoiler]
assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/503558): 8d6t5 1
Perception (http://orokos.com/roll/503560): 8d6t5 2
[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-08-17/2327:14>
      Assensing the man showed Marco that he was indeed male and human, and not much else. And Velenkoradi was at the far end of the restaurant, apparently amused by a small, plain woman sitting across from a clearly nervous man. Currently the spirit was playing peek-a-boo with Marco using the woman's head to hide behind. Up close the man showed a casual elegance and grace. His clothes while clearly current fashion and well tailored, were also not brand new and purchased simply to impress a new client.
       Upon hearing Marco introduce himself the man turned away from the maître de and said, "It is a pleasure to finally meet in person John after all of our business dealings." He extended his hand for a firm handshake. And nodding towards the maître de he said, "Andrzej tells me that Janek is not here today. It is a shame. He is the Dom Polski's best chef and his seasoning is sheer perfection. But, lets sit down. It's inhuman to discuss dinner before we've had a glass of wine."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-09-17/0111:00>
Marco smiled and winked at Velenkoradi, astral gestures were new to him and it was the most he felt like he could get away with without a physical giveaway. It was only as the sommelier poured them some of the wine, and the woman started giving some visual attention to Marco that he understood what he did"I just smiled and winked at that woman... Darn, it Velenkoradi let's hope she won't make more out of it."

Marco played with his wine and said "Good aroma, I can almost imagine the grapes, sends me right back to my childhood." At least to the childhood Marco liked to fantasize about that was.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-09-17/2231:55>
The man smiled, "Mine as well. Wine was my fathers only religion. Much to the chagrin of my mother." he chuckled.

Out of the corner of his eye Marco saw the woman give him an embarrassed glance several times, a slight flush to her cheeks. Velenkoradi in the meantime had taken to pecking the head of the man she was out on a date with..
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-10-17/1039:47>
Marco closed his third eye as he clearly cannot handle the distraction, out of amusement he sneaks a smile at the lady. Perhaps it would keep her curious but otherwise h does not encourage her with any obvious gesture. He is after all enjoying the company of a very attractive man, one that tries to impress him.  He flirts with the wine, playing and smelling and then closes his eyes as he tastes it. Lavishing the moment, why on earth did he come to Poland.  "So no sunday mornings at church for you? This is a shame, some churches have divine music." He said. After a few sips of the wine he asked "You seem to be knowledgeable with the place - got any recomendations?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-10-17/2207:43>
"They have an excellent cheese board for starters. But for dinner go with the venison. They have a red from a local winery that is worth coming here for. The winery is just now beginning to get some recognition, and still hasn't competed in any of the major trials where you would recognize the name. But, it is excellent, and paired with the venison it more than holds it's own. And it's Janoka's best dish. She is the chef on duty tonight." The man, who Marco can only assume is Queen, is relaxed. He does not reach for the menu and for all of his relaxed air and clear enjoyment of the wine, he has not taken his eyes off of Marco since they were introduced.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-11-17/0159:43>
Ideally, Marco would be flattered and mix pleasure and buissness, after all, it has been a while. Then he remembered who pointed him to Queen. Sam - and what did Sam want? Clearly to get rid of them, this is why he mentioned the priest. "Tsina the mundane psychopath did not kill us so perhaps an awakened one would. Tossed away once the fun is over becuse the things we did to close the stardust can never see light... I feel like a used conom. "

Marco smiled and said "Well, another bottle will have to wait for a second date, but I'll be happy to try the venison" He said and that was what he ordered as the waiter came in.  "Queen is an interesting name, don't you think? I bet  there is a story there.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-11-17/1622:27>
The man chuckles. "It has been a hard name to live with." he answers. "At least when I was young. It's an English name that just happens to rhyme with a ghetto slang word for prostitute here in Poland. When I was young I was always getting into fights. But, that was all part of my misspent youth." He spears a small piece of cheese and savors it's smell before popping it into his mouth with a sip of the wine. He raises an eyebrow and waits for Marco's response.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-12-17/0210:12>
Marco smiled "What's a childhood without a few misfortunes? The worse part of mine was watching my dog dies, poor Lucky just had no luck at all and run into a speeding car. It's interesting how names can either fit or be ironic. Perhaps they change something about us. Darn, I loved that dog and was sleeping with him for years. I never had a pet since." He took a sip from the wine and then asked "So I take it that you grew up in some greener fields than here?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-12-17/1741:15>
The man laughs, "We had enough. But, my tendency to get into scrapes set my feet on a different path." he raises an eyebrow and says, "You?" and then he straightens as the waiter places the first dish in front of both of them, a salad with a light wine.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-13-17/0156:06>
Marco sighed "I cannot say that it was bad, but let's say that I would raise my own children in a different manner.
Life of worship is good... as long as you stay on the right side of the fence. It was pleasant until I begun to see the flaws and think for myself." Marco then examined the salad, he liked fresh vegetables. Sure, these were a luxury that few people could afford. Ironically, they could also be grown with rather simple means. As he ate, deep sadness enveloped Marco's heart as he understood that: He did not really have a childhood, he was not the person that he thought he was. Then, the most painful understanding was that every single one of his past memories may have been false. The very things that defined him, that shaped his story are all manipulations and deceit. "Heck, I would not know truth if it bites me in the ass."

The young human-looking elf, grew a bit dreamy as he continued to dig through the salad. He allowed the vegetables to tell their own story and the wine to comfort his sad heart. To remind him of that wonderful ignorance that he has lost. That time when he was a young monk and believed that he was touched by God and received the most precious of gifts for the benefit humanity and the Catholic faith. "I do not recognize that boy, and strangely enough I no longer look like an elf." He sighed.

Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-13-17/1544:40>
Marco found his dinner companion to be an excellent conversationalist having traveled to several different countries. And he was right about the venison and the wine. The woman had studiously avoided Marco's gaze after he'd smiled at her. But, the color in her cheeks that his attention had given her had done her a world of good and the man she was with had paid a bit more attention to her afterwards.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-14-17/1558:31>
"I just made her more attractive... how cool is that" Thought Marco and continued with casual talk and fine dine, Marco will enjoy the conversation and will only get to buissness after desserts.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-15-17/0105:48>
The waiter is excellent at his job, dishes appearing and wine soliticously poured without any effort or signal from either of them. But, when he proffered a dessert menu Marco's dinner companion looked at him and smiled. "Despite the excellence of the wine may I recommend dessert at a patisserie near here? It's truly excellent and even at this hour we will have an excellent choice of fresh baked items."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-16-17/0158:49>
"Why can't things stay on course" thinks Marco as his natural paranoia amplifies.  An uncontrolled environment seemed like a good place to get killed.  His face kept his regular mask, of what genuinely was a very enjoyable meetup.
"Sure, let's do it, you seem to be knowledgeable about the city." Then he thinks "Either the guy is into me, or he is after me... How can I ever trust anyone after these events?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-16-17/1817:44>
The waiter hands each of them their checks and the man Marco has spent the past hour watching slots his cred stick as smoothly as he's done everything else. Once Marco has paid for his meal he stands, and motions him out the door and into the cold evening air. A car is waiting for him and he gets in, motioning Marco to follow him.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-17-17/0220:09>
Marco asks Velenkoradi "Check for me how many people are in that car."
[spoiler]
assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/507189): 7d6t5 3
[/spoiler]
He fakes a little incoming call, but instead checks the matrix around the car. Did someone forget a smart gun online... silently running devices...  Marco has good eyes, but little expirience with using the matrix. "What am I even looking for?" he thinks as he signals Queen to hold on a minute and mimics subtle data manipulation, a text perhaps in AR.

[spoiler]
matrix perception
Matrix perception (http://orokos.com/roll/507192): 6d6t5 2
[/spoiler]

Matrix asides, he takes a brief look at the car, trusting his intuition to signal him if it was a trap, before reaching his decision.
[spoiler]
Physical perception.
Perception (http://orokos.com/roll/507193): 8d6t5 4
[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-17-17/2159:31>
Velenkoradi's graceful form swirls sensuously around Marco and then answers, People? There is only one person in the box. Marco's data search finds the vehicle and local business but not much else. And he can't delay much longer, the casual, relaxed man he's been chatting with has disappeared, the man in the car is all business and is waiting expectantly for Marco to get in.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-18-17/0237:20>
Marco enters the car apologizing for the delay.
[spoiler]
Marco did not search for anything,  he observed the nearby icons searching for wireless weapons or other suspicious things.
With his skills he would not bother searching the matrix.
[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-18-17/1342:33>
The man he's been with watches him get in. But, doesn't say anything until the door is shut. "I've got your items. But, I'd be willing to talk an exchange of favors instead of money. You've got a real smooth way about you and I'm betting you could get into a high security dinner without an invite if you wanted to. And all you'd have to do is present one of the guests with my card." The card is expensive looking, and has only one line of elegant lettering.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-19-17/0335:08>
Marco examined the card carefully and then said
"
That depends...
when is this dinner party is?
How secure does 'secure' means?
Who is the specific guest?
Is there anything illegal about this card?
What is the expected reaction to this card? Is it a threat? an offer?
Should I disappear afterward? Answer his questions?
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-19-17/1228:10>
The man's lips quirk up very slightly in approval of the questions. And he answers, "Party is tonight, they should just be getting into the swing of things. Secure is president of a small nation secure. The guest is the head of finance for said small country, There is nothing illegal about the card, neither is it inherently dangerous in and of itself, but it is very much a threat. And you should definitely disappear afterwards."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-19-17/1556:56>
 "So let me get it straight, you would like me to infiltrate a party with a foreign leader, approach the head of finance, deliver a threat and get out of there safely, you want me to do this right now, without planning and you do not know exactly what kind of security there is there.  You also want me to do this rushed job for a bunch of party drugs? I may be interested, but you will have to reimburse me handsomely for this.

Let say 50k + drugs, for such a rushed job and honestly even then I will be doing this job as a favor as you clearly have no good method of delivering this card and no time to go scouting. "
[spoiler]
Negotiation (http://orokos.com/roll/508067): 18d6t5 5
[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-19-17/1649:44>
The man throws back his head and laughs. And then looks at Marco grinning, "Twenty for the fun of watching you work."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-19-17/1757:50>
Marco remains serious and does not move a muscle in his face. He knows what he is worth, and he bets that Queen can figure out as well. Instead he pulls out a credstick out of his wallet and load it with money.   "Moment ago you tried to hire me for party drugs, now you offer 20k. It may be funny for you but I know my price. It is 50k, not 20k and  I am certain that it is well within your means given the kind of people you interact with. Ask your friend about me if you need reassurances, you will find no one better than myself. I offer you the rare chance to be lucky and avoid the consequences of  a gig you have not yet figured out and did not do the appropriate legwork for." He pulls out a credstick and loads some money into it, saying "But since I am too expensive for your taste... I am more than willing to generously pay for the drugs double their market price for the wonderful company and the speed delivery.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-19-17/2317:21>
The man pulls out a slot to accept the credstick into and says, "I can respect that you know what you're worth. And I'd already hired cheaper. But my mage said your choice of spirits was interesting and that it pointed to a very unusual set of abilities. In my line of work, it pays to know skillsets." He verify's that the transaction is complete and then says, "There really is an excellent patisserie here if you'd like dessert."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-20-17/0007:10>
Marco grinned "Perhaps things are cheaper in Poland... What can I say, I can go a bit lower if I am sharing the job and the risk with others. Gives me a chance to know new people and the 50k were to feed more than one mouth. Every professional needs backup in case things go south.
At any case, you have my number feel free to contact me if you need my skillset."

With a pause, he said "Here is your cred. I'll go get some sweets though I wouldn't eat more than a couple of bites. You are welcome to share a desert with me if you are not busy... " with a flirtitious smile he added "Perhaps we can discuss my other skills"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Shaman_Yuri on <04-22-17/1846:00>
Blessed Allah, how can it be so cold!

It being the latter half of January, Isha still comes pretty early.  It makes no difference in this infernal place.  True, it had snowed in Berlin.  I remember making a snowman with mother and having snowball fights with father when I was five.  It was fun.  It was also only about negative five degrees with calm winds...and I had the latest in heat reflective garments which kept me toasty while being no more bulky than a light jacket and slacks.  Any colder and we had stayed indoors; being whisked from garage to garage in warm vehicles when we ventured out.  Other than Berlin, I'd generally lived in subtropical or tropical climes.

I truly never realized how good I had it.

My breath turns to mist as a let out a long sigh.  I know I shouldn't be complaining.  Allah be praised, I have a lot to be grateful for.  I'm alive.  No small feat when the Seattle Yakuza want my head, whether or not it comes attached to my body.  I'd managed to deceive my way over half way across this accursed continent to a place where people who dress like me, practice their faith like me, are commonplace.  Detroit, Michigan seems like a little Constantinople somehow buried in the neck of a peninsula deep inside North America.  Instead of the Golden Horn, one has Lake St Claire...currently frozen over from the bitter cold winter now routine after the death of the now historical Gulf Stream.  Barely ice free because of water movement is the St Claire River, something of a mini Bosphorus linking Lake Huron to Lake Erie.  I can...almost...imagine what it might look like in four months once spring thaws the ice and normal movement is possible again.

Maybe I might even live long enough to see it.

For now, my mind has to stay on survival.  I've made it to Michigan...a place not quite beyond the reach of the Yak but certainly a great deal more a stretch for them than Seattle.  There are also people I can blend with...my people.  People who hold true to the Pillars.  People who gather for prayers five times each day.  A sea of hijabis...who would notice one more?

How do you best hide a needle?  Not in a haystack but in a mountain of needles.

One of the pillars of Islam is charity.  Once I had demonstrated that I was a true believer, knowledgeable about my faith in a way only one brought up to it could be, I had been given cautious support by the faithful of a modest Turkish-tradition Sunni mosque.  A place and people which brought back fond memories of my time with my grandparents on the shores of the Sea of Marmara.  An accountant for a import-export business that preferred to keep several books, one each for the appropriate auditor, had been fascinated by my advanced comfort with numbers.  I hadn't let on my expertise on the 'trix much less my magic abilities, but I saw no risk in seeming educated and that opened doors to a subsistence employment - enough to pay for a closet-sized apartment and enough food to keep me from starving.

It seems best to lay low.  To not use the remains of the largess I accumulated working for Arc back in Seattle.  To just be a quiet, devout young girl of faith who spends long days working for a pittance, practicing my faith, and returning to my closet to repeat the process each day.

Only on Friday, my single day off from work, do I venture out to a little coffee shop owned by a fellow member of my mosque to enjoy my one indulgence.  A cup of sweetened Turkish coffee to savor for a good long time and...real, unfiltered or obstructed 'trix access.  Using my MiAz hidden carefully in the folds of my abaya so as not to attract attention, I carefully wander the matrix to look for signs that I am still being sought out, to keep abreast of my secret identities, and...most importantly...to look for signs that Yelena-sensei and Arc-sensei are okay.

I wonder how many Fridays will go by before I learn anything...
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-22-17/1855:06>
The man raises an eyebrow in a sardonic from, "They are no doubt, impressive. Perhaps another time." He drops Marco off at the patisierre.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-23-17/2224:23>
@ Subaru She does not attract much attention in this city. Her employer has many of the faithful and one more single girl goes almost unnoticed. Almost. She'd been working nearly two weeks when her superior had called her into the office. As she was single he had his third wife with him to avoid any appearance of impropriety. "You are earnest in your desire to work. And, the mistakes you make are few. Those few mistakes are not mistakes in the numbers, neither are they in the use of the data. Rather they are mistakes that are the result of your lack of knowledge in accounting. And a lack of knowledge is curable by education. I know an education seems like an extra duty and expense when you are young. But, courses in accounting would take less than a year and gain you much more nuyen and the possibility for advancement." He watches her for her reaction. And his wife watches him even more closely. "Is this something you would have the desire to pursue? Or, are you betrothed and only looking forward to your wedding day?" 
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-24-17/0941:53>
Marco purchases plenty of deserts and then heads back to the safehouse. Frustrated and feeling dirty, "the person spends 20k on a whim, and I missed played my hand. Why did I want the job anyhow? His pretty eyes? Pockets are full at the moment from Nickolai's creds."

At the safe house, he said to the team " I hope you like sweets, sorry for not ordering from the Dom Polsky... something there smelled fishy for me. I got paranoid."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Shaman_Yuri on <04-24-17/1015:28>
Is this entire world dedicated to making me an indentured servant?!?

I keep my feelings close, however, and let on none of my frustration at yet again feeling the shackles moving to ring my wrists and neck.  I've already made one enemy by shaking them off.  No sense making yet another...and maybe his intentions really are good.  Fortunately, he may have given me a convenient out...

"As it happens, sir, the one who holds my heart has ventured out to apply Allah's just vengeance on one who has no business breathing Allah's air.  I have but to remain pious and pure in Allah's eyes until my love returns in successful splendor.  I can only commit myself to your service until that happens.  I'm happy to do whatever you would wish to make me a better employee, but I best not place myself in debt when only my love has rights to my future."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-24-17/1056:29>
Yelena had settled back at the counter in the armory that she is using to clean her weapons and examining the things that Arc had found, including the new gel ammo.  Some of it would fit the rifle and her Predator V, so she takes it and some of the extra clips and loads some up to place in her case.  She is still doing that and trying to think of how she can help Jed when Marco returns.  She moves back to the main room and listens to his comments.  "Are we taking priest or not?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-24-17/1319:25>
Marco takes a seat and expands his hands and legs, "of course but with gel rounds...  we know where he'll be we will position you to get a clean shot and once he is out we will use magic to quickly eliminate him from the scene. I got drugs powerful enough to contain the mage, and with bounded spirits and the new power focus I may be powerful enough to enter his mind."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <04-24-17/1813:01>
The short mechanic Arc was sitting nearby, listening intently to what Marco was planning to do on the morrow.  She felt herself inwardly shivering at the sheer power of being able to probe one''s mind.  To think he could do that to most peeps without being detected...yeesh  Closing her eyes, she mentally composed herself, covering her mouth as she felt her stomach turn, holding in.

"in that cashe, we should make our get out right there.  Jed, still got that cred stick I gave ya?  Think your boy be needing a call now..."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-25-17/0131:20>
Marco added "Are you feeling alright Arc?

We will load him on the van, if I am successful we will leave him in some hotel room. He will remember nothing of the last few hours before his interrogation. Specifically, if all go well he would not know that his mind was invaded. Instead, I'll leave him with a sexually embarrassing picture. It will ease his suspicion of mind invasion and he'll think that someone is trying to gain some leverage on him because he fronts as a Catholic priest. It is better he suspects some more mundane foul play than me going AWOL, it will be safer for everyone I ever loved.  For some strange reason, my old religion has an absurd relationship with sexuality. We should use it to our advantage.  I have the right drugs to contain him... I hope  "

He thinks  "I hope it goes better than with that homicidal genius mage."
[spoiler]
By the way, Marco cannot read minds discreetly this is why he plans to use Leas to wipe the recent memories of his victim.
[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-25-17/0952:42>
Yelena gives Blackbird an odd look.  "What van?  Nicolai and Hellfire took van and it crashed.  Blackbird steal another?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <04-25-17/1014:40>
Arc could feel her cheeks color at the question, her cybereyes averting the mage's gaze as she straightened up, taking a breath.  "Nothing to worry about, heh.  Just still a bit queasy but it finna pass.  Yelena''s right though.  We don't got no transhportation save for what be taking us back to Seattle.
Whatever you gon' do to this fragger gonna needa be done right there and then we kip."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-25-17/1155:30>
Marco laughed at Yelena's question "Well, isn't it obvious? We are buying a Gopher... There is a used car agency with an online catalog, payment method is cash on delivery. We need to get to the airport and we cannot just hitch hike there. You know that you have to get to the border to actually cross it. They are not very far and with a few grim faces from Arc and my charm we will get it cheaply. We can either ditch it or sell it once we are at the border. Are you guys ready to go? They work long hours but they go home to sleep at about 23:00. Never understood how people could work so much."

To Arc he said "Well I hope you feel better, there are plenty of incredible pastries. Have one, they are good for the soul."
He tossed one for Arc and then one for someone besides her, just to see Velenkoradi materializes in time to catch it. Have one too Yelena, may be the last chance for good food in a while. Where is Jed by the way?
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-25-17/1858:51>
"Right here." Jed replies as he comes out of the bathroom. "and I can call my contact. I may be able to get him to meet us close to here and wait for us at the airport to "recover our bags" or whatever story sounds reasonable. Who knows, I might even be able to arrange for some backup firepower if things go seriously south. These are contacts of Mike's. So . . . they're probably not overly delicate about such things." He grabs a pastry from Marco and stuffs it in his mouth. And then his eyebrows raise and his eyes close as he savors the delicate, buttery confection. Velenkorai is appreciative as well. The pastry swirls through the air to land daintily on a table and is daintily pecked. My services will not last forever. My time on this plane will always be limited. But, your offerings are a gift I savor. Marco hears.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <04-25-17/2223:22>
Arc gave a bit of a sigh, her hand darting up to snatch the pastry deftly as she calmed herself.  "Thanksh, chummer.  Hope you right, thish food here ain't agreeing with me."  Taking a bite, she closed her eyes as the flavor danced on her tongue, a few pensive chews ensuing as Jed and Marco traded their ideas.

Clearing her throat, the mechanic chimed in.  "I actually like that.  And I think the cred I be havin' here should cover any extra costs for 'baggage assistance', heh.  That way we don't leave much of a print through a car purchashe.  Aight."  She took another bite, taking a seat in a chair and flicking the credstick over.  "Let'sh make the call and shet a time."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-25-17/2357:30>
Yelena takes one of the pastries, but finds it only minimally more enjoyable that some of the rest of the food here.  "Hey, If taking priest, why not take plane?  PI man contact maybe fly us away then we sell plane to them?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-26-17/0125:31>
Marco replied to Velenkoradi with a mere thought, or emotion a bit of sadness "I will miss you, but I will let you go.". In a way, he thought it was necessary because Velenkoradi knew that Marco could just bind him again and again. Intuitively, Marco understood that that kind of behavior was flawed. Velenkoradi will want to get home... wherever home is. It made Marco both happy and sad.  Happy because Velenkoradi has this place that he wants to go to. Sad, because he himself did not have a home, he was blending perfectly in any culture but had no country he identified with no family and no place he called home. "I am a stranger anywhere in this world. So, I am happy that you have someplace to call home. He tried to explain.

Marco said to Yelena "I am not sure if we can 'fence' a stolen plane. I never tried to get rid of such a large object. I would not count on it though. We may not even be able to activate the darn thing without a decker...
An odd thought then crossed his mind. " I am confident that I can fly a plane, I have a high-quality tutorsoft, I've been listening to - I just never had a plane to practice with. The last time I was in a plane well... I was busy thinking about other things.
Tammie, I haven't thought about her in a while. No, I never thought about her, just about what I wanted from her. I guess I am not that good at letting people in.


He looked at Jed, almost wishing to take a bite himself - "but I haven't trained in awhile I will not overeat like that."
He then said "Well, I am glad that you all are so confident that I'll need just a few minutes with the man. I never tried to steal secrets from a powerful mage before. Heck, the first time I did that spell without consent was with Dana that crazy mage, and even there I just tried to get to know her quickly to understand how her emotions worked.

I am getting carried away, what I am trying to say is that it is too early for a Coyote for me because I do not know where I want to go.
I want to find Lady which the priests hold captive. Maybe she is in Seattle, maybe she is somewhere else - what I am trying to say is that WHERE I want to go depends on what I learn from the man we are after, but you guys have a place to call home. Go there! You owe me nothing, I damaged you all with my lies and deceit. I may join you or I may go somewhere else. I do not need to illegally cross borders. I can do so with commercial airlines. "



Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-26-17/0210:03>
Yelena looks at Blackbird and nods.  "How long Blackbird think need get secrets from priest?  Come back this place to examine priest mind?  If take long, others can leave and meet Blackbird later.  Yelena need go Sam but stay here and help Blackbird if needed.  Is part right.  Love died with lies and betrayal but mostly when man Yelena trust look at her with disgust for what she is.  But Yelena can still be friend and can help Blackbird with task."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-26-17/0706:09>
Marco said with sadness "You are climbing your way from a moral rock bottom and I am spiraling down from pacifist ideals to violent existence, perhaps you will soon be able to return that favor and look back at me with disgust. 

He is a mage, being one just makes me more educated in how many things may go wrong. Dangerous and unpredictable.
I truly do not know how many times I need to cast the spell before I have what I am looking for, it may be a few moments if I am successful, and several hours if I need to rest from the mental drain. My drugs will only last for several hours so I better be done by the time they run out.  "
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-26-17/1023:12>
Yelena laughs softly.  "That is Blackbird's major problem.  Yelena not see moral issue with profession so not see self at moral bottom.  Blackbird mouth said love but eyes said other things.  Love should have overcome what Yelena is.  Yelena's love was enough to go back for another try, but then lies and more lies buried that.  Yelena not look Blackbird in disgust.  Just sadness for what might have been.  Yelena's definition of love means respect and trust and Blackbird did not have either for Yelena."  She shrugs sadly.  "But is not important now.  Is in past.  Yelena stay Blackbird until done with priest then go Sam.  Maybe Jed and Arc go with coyotes now and go home.  Yelena can leave here and go to place for Sam to pick up.  Blackbird work out plan for get justice and call so we come help."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-26-17/1314:08>
Marco chuckled "Sadly, you were never worthy of trust, but you are worthy of honesty. You spiraled back into drugs and lost control in numerous occasions. You got into unexplained gunfights and Jesus knows what else. The heart wants what it does, but trust comes from mind. You are just not a trustworthy person. I like you never the less - oh and I do not do justice, I just need information. I do not wish the priest harmed."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <04-26-17/1958:44>
Arc couldn't help but feel a bit awkward at the clash of ideals spatting before her, feeling her tension rise as the argument wore on.  Stealing a glance with Jed, she gave a nod to make the call as she stepped in, stamping her foot to interrupt.

"Boh'htetch!  You know you can be a total hoop sometimes,
Blackbird?  Seriously, you're both talking in circles now.  Yelena, we came here together we going together, so stop being so fraggin' fatalistic and drek.  Blackbird, get that silver spoon attached to your brain outta your hoop for jusht a moment and realize the world don't revolve around your issues.  Deal with em.  We here to help, but I be damned if I'm gonna sit here and let you talk down to us.  If you that ready to cut ties, youda said byee to that priest fragger.  Figure yo drek out, man!"


The human's eyes widened as she leaned forward a bit, catching her breath in her throat before running to the bathroom, shutting the door in a slam.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-27-17/0119:05>
Jed studies Yelena and Marco and then nods. "I think I'd better." Accessing his comm he calls, >>Dutchman, I need a pickup at the Dom Polsky at 10:00. We'll need the limo and someone with a little experience at dealing with the paparazzi at the airport.<< The answer is swift, >>Can do. Just no A-list celebrities. I can't stand diva's.<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-27-17/0122:27>
Marco laughed softly and said "Arc is very emotional, isn't she?" To himself he thinks "Perhaps it is just American women or Russian ones... I should visit the UK, I heard they have more restraint there."   To Yelena he continues without blinking even. "Don't respond now in anger, think about it for a while. About your brief time with Marco and see if you can understand why he did not trust you. 
I did not mean to offend you in any way, I carry the scars of dishonesty and manipulation myself. Everyone I ever trusted failed me horribly.  Including this Sam, you grew so fond of. It felt impossible to trust someone so volatile with a secret of this magnitude.  

He emphasized so Jed will hear as well "Seriously, these are the people that raised me to be the man that I am. As brutal as my education was this was all that I had. The man I am going to abuse was like a parent. A cruel and sadistic one which I deeply resented. Still, it is freedom I am after, not Vengence. "
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-27-17/0148:20>
Yelena's face loses all color at Blackbird's words.  His admission that she had never been worthy of trust in his eyes hurts as much as anything he has done or said to hurt her in the past.  There is nothing so final in all the world than the death of love and whatever little bit had remained in her for this man just implodes in her heart.  Standing there in the room, she just looks at the man she had loved and who had said that he loved her.  She had known the lie but part of her had refused to believe it, had hoped beyond any rational hope that there was still something there to work on.  Now, even that was gone, blowing away like so much dust in a breeze. 

She opens her mouth twice before words come out. "Blackbird words have offended Yelena greatly and have hurt far more than you will ever realize.  Yelena loved with a strength that could accept Marco for what he was.
 Yelena respected and trusted Marco."  She turns in Jed's direction.  "Would PI Man give love or would lie to get in bed?  Maybe there is no love for Yelena.  Punishment for killing too much.  Maybe Yelena deserve hurt from Marco and Blackbird and sax man."  She pauses for a moment as her eyes search Jed's face then she turns back to Blackbird and speaks in a quiet and monotone voice.  "Yelena never fire gel round in life so not know effect on aim or shooting.  Will try to not kill priest."  She turns to go to the armory but is caught up short by Blackbird's words and turns to listen to him.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-27-17/0847:33>
[spoiler] Well, I wanted to say a few things, but uncertain how it goes with Yelena storming off. Here is what Blackbird would say if she stayed long enough, or wanted to listen. Otherwise, I'll edit to have Marco shrugging and thinking about his old mentor. It seems that every time our characters try to touch that point, we reach the same deadlock. So, I thought that it can be a good post to show some real honesty from Marco rather than the usual charmy charm. I'll leave it for mercy to decide which he prefers. [/spoiler]


Blackbird sighed "Look, Yelena, you keep saying that and sometimes I forget which one of us is twenty and which one of us is sixty. We've only known each other for a couple of weeks. Why did you expect me to go and share my most intimate secrets? Yes, we had something, love and yes my plan failed. I am a fool - indeed. I love you and do my best to be worthy of your trust. Things have changed, we moved from honeymoon where everything was pink and gay, to reality where both have enemies and we both are emotionally damaged.

I am uncertain if I am even capable of trust. The last person I trusted was dishonest about everything, including his name and even gender. It took Sam six month of relationship to get me to lower my guard down. Nothing nearly as what you expect from me. I got over his betrayal, I keep a professional relationship with Sam, but I am uncertain if I am capable of trusting again in a way that would please you. 

I am surprised that you yourself, can trust me so quickly - perhaps it is my darn magic. I honestly have no idea how to handle the storm that I unleashed in you. I am truly sorry for further damaging you.
I wanted a relationship - but I never had a real one... I don't know what to do."
 
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-27-17/1002:52>
Yelena's face is passive as the other Keeb talks.  She shrugs her shoulders when he is done.  "Marco and Blackbird have different definition of love from Yelena.  In Yelena mind, you cannot have love without trust.  Is Yelena fault.  Yelena wanted something Marco and Blackbird not able to give.  Yelena gave freely of love and trust and got disgust and lies back.  Yelena not need or want false words of love from Blackbird.  I go get rifle ready.".  She walks calmly into the small armory and places her head against a wall and cries softly.  She cries for herself.  She cries for what might have been and now cannot be.  She cries for her Vory family that has turned its back on her.  She cries.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-27-17/1111:50>
The Dutchman thinks for a few moments reviewing the information he has on this job so far. Celebrities, so they're hot  Paparazzi, shots already fired. Airport, so probably stolen goods they're trying to recover or fence. They need to get back to the UCAS, no prob. And then there's the guy that recommended him. He's an old friend. An old friend for whom trouble comes not just with guns but also very savvy enemies. It's best to assume his friend is cut from the same cloth. The Dutchman puts a call out to a few of his more reliable runners. Chummers who can think on their feet. >>I've got a last-minute job for a couple of celebrities who want to do a bit of sightseeing. Real jet-setter types so pack your passports just in case. Job will take about a week, two at the outside. But I need to know now as the pick-up time is 10:00 in Wroclaw.<< Hmmm, Wroclaw, they'd had a top bratva boss killed recently in a power-play. So help me if these guys are those guys there is going to be hell to pay. Nah, can't be, they were outta towners. Contacted him almost a week ago and bratva boss killings were always internal. Politics. Even the police didn't dare interfere. No, his guys were safe enough. The tourists were just hot. Hot he could handle.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <04-27-17/1252:23>
Na'Nele was in a safe house of the organisation she was currently freelancing for when she got the call.  While she had just brought some things over the border from Germany last week and the rest had been nice, she wasn't the type to sit still.
>>I can be ready in half an hour from now.  Just have to check the heavy equipment.<<
By which she meant her weapons of course.
>>Just Let me know where and when you want me to be picked up and details on payment.<<

While waiting for a reply, she already started to pack her gear, putting on her armour and checking her equipment before putting it in her backpack or in various pockets of her vest.  That way she had everything on hand when she needed it.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <04-27-17/1449:00>
Lena panted heavily, her breaths fell in time to the fast pace of the electronic music she listened to as they thumped into the badly maintained pavements of Lodz.
The incoming message interrupted the driving bassline with a cheery jibe and she mentally commanded the burner commlink she used for "work" to overlay it into her FOV.
Sight-seeing? that was a new one. Fuck-all to see around here! Jet-setting types usually meant good pay though and that always came in handy.
<<Sure. Always happy to oblige. What's the rate, how many and how far they need me to get them?>>
She checked the mental overlay for time and made a quick calculation, figuring the long route would take too long if she was gonna make it in traffic into wroclaw.
She bustled through a queue for an autobus and cleared three lanes of honking traffic as the light went to green too-early for her liking and hit the steps down into the basement of the old tenement block she called home, switching the audio feed from her burner comm to the speakers on the dusty window ledge before she hit the shower and wolfed down some soy-porridge.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-27-17/1737:10>
>>Itinerary includes the UCAS, Seattle. Pay is 3.5k plus expenses and they want picked up at a restaurant known as the Dom Polsky. I've arranged for a limo.<< the Dutchman answers.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: SmilinIrish on <04-27-17/1747:27>
Jed silently witnessed the interplay before him, casting an uncomfortable glance over at Arc.  So much of what they were talking about had just become real to him, except his trust was broken in a years old relationship, not one that had been a matter of weeks.  Once they were done, he needed to research the Tir and find out how to investigate.  If Bunny was still alive, or if he had a daughter...
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-27-17/1750:20>
Marco walked toward the restroom where Arc decided to coup up. "Arc? Can I come in?" and then said in sweet Italian and allowed the words to roll on his tongue like music. "Apri la porta porta Signiorina Arc, ho un meraviglioso cioccolato che ti farà scappare tutti i tuoi problemi".

[spoiler]
Open the door miss Arc, I have a wonderful choclate that will make all your troubles go away (or runaway).
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-28-17/0200:36>
After a couple of minutes of crying, Yelena straightens up, wipes her eyes and goes to the work bench in the armory.  She checks the specs on the gel rounds as she loads them into a clip and slides it into her case.  Done, she looks around for something else to do and, finding nothing, she shrugs her shoulders and walks back out to the main room, walking up to the bathroom and standing next to Blackbird and knocking on the door.  "Arc not have cigarette in there.  If using toilet is fine, but Yelena need to pee.  Will need to use cup if Arc not leave bathroom."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <04-28-17/0430:00>
Na'Nele signaled her acceptance and also arranged for the limo to pick her up before it would have to go to the restaurant.  That way she was sure to ride shotgun, or assault rifle in her case and she would arrive on time.

She put her heavy weapon in a duffel bag so it was hidden from view, but she kept the bag with her in the car, while her clothes and things like that went in the back of the limo.  She wouldn't need those at the moment, but she wanted to keep her weapons close.  You never knew what could happen and while this was not a jungle in the real sense of the word, some principles could be transferred, including the principle of 'always be prepared'.

She assumed that they would have some time to make the necessary arrangements, if needed by bringing them first to a safe house.  She needed more information before she could see how to get them where they needed to be.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <04-28-17/0739:24>
>>Itinerary includes the UCAS, Seattle. Pay is 3.5k plus expenses and they want picked up at a restaurant known as the Dom Polsky. I've arranged for a limo.<< the Dutchman answers.
<<UCAS? Christ... That's a long way. How soon do they need to arrive? How many and how much kit?>>
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <04-28-17/0940:52>
While Blackbird was standing on the other side of the bathroom door, he could hear the muffled sounds of wretching, followed by mild sobs as Arc fought to contain herself.  "I don't fraggin know what that means."  she said meekly as he spouted Italian to her.  When Yelena arrived, she flushed the toilet and ran the sink for a moment before opening the door.  She looked weary, cheeks flushed and eyes puffy as she glanced up at the two of them.

"can't be smokin.  You took em all."  she sighed, stepping to the side.  "you two need to sort thish drek out without blowing up.  Right now we are all we got, and we need that to get home.."  she stepped past them, eyes downcast with a hand holding her stomach, willing it to settle.  "I ain't gon lose either of you..."

She strolled over to Jed, seeing him lost in his own thoughts.  Giving him a nudge on the arm, she sat down by him.  "you gonna be aight?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <04-28-17/1014:10>
Yelena gives Arc a worried look.  "Yelena fine.  All worked out now.  Srui need rest."  She goes into the bathroom and shuts the door before using the toilet.  She washes her hands after finishing and returns to the main room.  Looking at Blackbird and the others she asks, "OK.  What is plan?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-28-17/1042:45>
Marco grinned and said "It means that I have chocolate so good it will make all your troubles run away."
When she is out he said "Don't worry Arc, things will get better eventually. I mean I am uncertain why you are so upset but I will make sure that you get back home to your shop in the Barrens and the Vurk. you like so much. My regular comforting skills are out of the questions, but perhaps dark chocolate can help. At least know that such tastes exist before we go risk our necks again."

He sighed and said "I wanted to use it to make Chocolate Souffle for my first night in the living. Between you all being mad at me and Nikolai to torturing people I just could not cook anything good."

He walked with her and when he saw Jed he gave him a bar of chocolate "It seems like you need it more than I do." He then tossed a bar at Yelena, grinning.

"You too, Velenkoradi and the rest of you an have some as well." he said to his spirits. "One of the delicacies of this world."  
With everybody munchin some chocolate Marco spoke "Plan is simple but perhaps you can help me.

Priest is at airport at 4:00 am. I'll identify him, Yelena will take a sniper shot, we need to be there in advance to see the terrain.

We will use a spirit to change the unconscious priest into a compact animal and take him out of the airport. There, I'll drug him, interrogate him and place him a neat hotel while we leave the country.

I think we need cars that can be manually driven just in case I pulled a Nikolai.
Arc kept us alive today, so we owe her big time." He looks at Arc and says  "Seeing you without a car feels strange to me. You sure you do not want us to buy a Gopher? or any other car for that matter."


Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <04-28-17/1606:00>
A rough plan started to form as the info streamed back to her over the trix: chartered anything was clearly not going to work with that payload, but then she knew that, otherwise they wouldn't be calling her.
Right, so, options? she opened an AR scribble pad and scrawled notes a few mil above the rough scratched table she ate at, brushing crumbs and a mucky mug of old chai out of the way of her text.
1-Private plane, doable....needs an understanding pilot and a small airfield with friendly groundstaff. Not beyond the realms of possibility, but never going to be cheap and pretty high risk..
2-Zepp, doable.. much like 1, except slower, cheaper and harder to come by
3-Ship; no passenger services from europe, but plenty of cargo ships. Huge ships crewed by skeleton staff and drones makes for privacy and plenty of corrupt captains out there on the make to line their pockets, more lax security, ability to take plenty of gear....
Hmm... that's the best option.
She brushed her hair back and set the agent on the nixdorf to search mode, opening 3 different terminals for it to crack on with:
[spoiler]
Searching for available cargo routes from major polish ports:

Cargo services out of Gydania:
 (http://orokos.com/roll/511785): 6d6t5 2

Cargo services out of Gdansk:
 (http://orokos.com/roll/511788): 6d6t5 2

Cargo services out of Szczecin:
 (http://orokos.com/roll/511789): 6d6t5 0

Cargo services out of Swinoujscie:
 (http://orokos.com/roll/511791): 6d6t5 4[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-28-17/1804:03>
Hmmm, Gydania was do-able, two ships leaving out. One would be a bit of a rush to get there. So, he'd have to arrange that now to make sure of a spot. The other left in 43 hours. Swinoujscie had three different ships leaving. And one was the Uber. It's captain was Alexia White Romanoff and he'd worked with her before. So, maybe. But, he could arrange transport via he guy he knew with almost any of them so that wasn't really much of an issue.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <04-28-17/1931:32>
Arc silently took the chocolate in her hands, giving a little nod and a sniff to Blackbird...it seemed like she was calming down, and as the talk moved towards what was to come, her mood improved.  She closed her eyes after a bite of the treat, fingers crossed it agreed with her, and after a few chews she chimed in, sitting near Jed as before.

"Would sheem a waste to get a car jusht to get rid of it.  Besides, washn't it mentioned that we would be able to arrange our rides to shwing by the airport before we go?  If that'sh the case, we won't need another vehicle."  She gave a small smile, pinching her brow as she leaned forward.  "I got a bit lucky pulling ush out of there, I won't lie.  I'd rather avoid pushing that luck ifn' we finna help it, yeah?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <04-29-17/1505:33>
Marco said "Why ditch it? If all go well we can import it to the UCAS legally.
I mean we are going to bring illegal weapons and stuff, shipping a car should be no problem for these people. We can deliver the car to a shipping container and get it on the other side.

Luck or no luck, I'd rather have you driving Arc. Bad people are after us, with a prize of over half a million nuyen. I am not sure that the coyotes can handle the kind of heat that we carry. I want you to be the one driving if things go bad - not some driver we never met.  Let's buy a car, I'll get a great price for us. "
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <04-29-17/1534:33>
As the results streamed through from the agent, she was heartend to see The Uber come up in the list of hits.
She shot the captain Alexia a message <<Morning, I hear you're in town for a few days. When you due to sail??>> [spoiler]Assuming as i've worked with her before i'd have her commcode here, let me know if not[/spoiler]
Whilst waiting for the reply through, she pinged a message to her fixer Hanna:
Morning! looking at sending some special cargo transatlantic. Any chance you can get me pricing options on the following: <<Shipping departures.list>>. Berthing for 6 would be preferable
 [spoiler]Looking at pricing options for the ships you listed and pre-rolling for pricing negotiations if needed as might be able to widen the gap between expenses/pay packet(didn't include any magical/gear bonuses as haggling done via AR). Disregard if not necessary :-) pre-roll for price haggling (http://orokos.com/roll/512189): 11d6t5 3[/spoiler]
Stuffing the last of her breakfast down her throat, she dashed into the bedroom and donned her smart wear and decent coat. she didn't know the restaurant but if it was limo-class, gym-wear wasn't going to cut the mustard...
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <04-29-17/2214:55>
Arc sighed, cracking a bit of a smirk at Blackbird's remarks as she leaned forward, her shoulders visibly slumped a bit as she lowered her head, her red hair shifting to cover a bit of her face as she did so.  "Tch, ya make it sound easy...but I have a car at home, don't need another one.  Beshides, we hiring theshe coyotes to get us home.  It'sh their job, important becaushe I don't recall getting a passhport to get here, ya feel?  We can figure drek out once we meet them and decide then."

She took in a deep breath, closing her eyes.  "I'll drive if I need to..but I'm wiped, Blackbird.  That escape...took everything I ever learned with th'Howlersh.  If I have to do that again..."  She bit her lip, looking away.  "There's more at shtake here, is all I'm sayin'"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-29-17/2321:46>
@ Lena  The reply is prompt, >>Twenty one hours. You looking for work? Or, are you taking a nice, cheap vacation.<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <04-30-17/0234:20>
Nice cheap vacation for me and a bunch of friends. Got room for 6 and kit? Not afraid of a bit of hard work if it helps with the price either.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <04-30-17/0513:20>
While sitting in the car, Na'Nele thought about something.  If she had to bring these people out of the country, she would need contacts, as she didn't have sufficient contacts in country herself.  So she sent back a message to the guy hiring her.

If I have to get these clients out of the country, I'll need some local contacts for the first part of the trip.  Could you bring me into contact with someone who can do this first part?
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <04-30-17/1033:07>
@ NaNele  >>I'll get you in touch with the other guy on security with you. Name of Lena 45RTY-HG456-894IM. I've worked with her before and she's got steady head.<<


@Lena >>I can get you berths for 3k apiece. That price gets you a private head and space for 8. I'll bring the price down a K each for everyone that pulls duty in security and the mess.<<

Hanna finally answers, >>Sorry about the delay, you caught me at a bad minute. But I've got the prices. 6k each for a one week trip with a reasonable amount of privacy, all the way up to 21k each for, "if it's about to explode you may knock on my door."<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <04-30-17/1124:36>
Na'Nele send a quick thanks to the guy, before attempting to contact Lena.
"Hey, I've received your commcode as you are working on travel arrangements for a group of celebreties," she started as soon as connection was made, "I'm Na'Nele, codename Hyene and I've been put on the same job and as I'd rather not do the same work twice, I thought it was best to get into contact with you to see what you already had."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <04-30-17/1810:51>
Lena sensed a plan coming together;
@Dutchman >>Got plenty of options for the job so I'll accept. How deep are the pockets for expenses? got a cred account I can bill to for up-front payments? Tons of questions I know, but how much discretion do I need to buy, as in, just how hot is this cargo?<<
@Hannah >>Awesome, Will find out the total budget and give you a shout once I've got the deets worked out.<<
@Hyene >>Just pricing up options at the moment, know anything of the cargo? They attracting much heat?<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-01-17/0557:42>
@Lena: >>I have no idea, but lets work under the assumption they have at least some heat following them.  That's always the safest bet.  What are the current options?<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-01-17/0937:01>
@ Lena  >>They need star treatment, and you've got 60k to work with. I've sent you the cred info as an attachment. They did not give me a return date so feel free to take them on the scenic route.<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: SmilinIrish on <05-01-17/1500:18>
Jed reached up to pat Arc's hand.  I'll be ok Ms. Arc.  Just need to stay busy.  Idle time will lead to too much thinking.  Looking at Marco, Jed asked What do you need me to do my friend?
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-01-17/1712:46>
@Lena: >>I have no idea, but lets work under the assumption they have at least some heat following them.  That's always the safest bet.  What are the current options?<<

>>Multiple sailings, best option appears to be out of Swinoujscie in 21 hours. Otherwise we're either in a major rush or got too much time on our hands and I'd rather not twiddle thumbs with a hot package in hand. You got any contacts in the UCAS? We're gonna need a welcome party with a vehicle somewhere on the east coast with a quiet landing near Nuevo Amsterdam. A straight forward safe-house and clean truck with directions will suffice if no welcome party available. I'll tap up my contacts but if you can tap that angle, it'll speed things up.<<
_______________________________
@ Lena  >>They need star treatment, and you've got 60k to work with. I've sent you the cred info as an attachment. They did not give me a return date so feel free to take them on the scenic route.<<
>>.Ok, no problems. I assume they're ready to go right from the restaurant? Any special requirements I need to know of?<<
____________________________
Quote
@Lena >>I can get you berths for 3k apiece. That price gets you a private head and space for 8. I'll bring the price down a K each for everyone that pulls duty in security and the mess.<<

>>That sounds good, I'll need 6 of those 8. You got a dirigible I can take? costs-covered of course, or you know anyone this side selling one? doesn't need to be anything fancy, just something that'll do a couple of clicks over open water and runs quiet.<<

Whilst waiting for the reply to come through, she quickly did a scan of 2nd hand dirigible sales in and around the Swinoujscie region
[spoiler]Agent performing: 1st roll failed with non-glitch, 2nd test at-2 for re-try:  (http://orokos.com/roll/512969): 4d6t5 1
should be enough to find public classified listings if they exist (simple test @ threshold 1)[/spoiler]
____________________________
@Hanna
>>No problems, busy morning? An old friend cut me mates-rates, but I will need a welcome party with transport or a safehouse and vehicle rental somewhere quiet near the beach upshore from Nuevo Amsterdam
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-01-17/1757:07>
Marco smiled at Jed "Convince Arc we need a car of our own. If you cannot do that then keep us alive, I assume that your capabilities you can be at the airport right now and learn the topography and see if we can find a nice sniper nest to locate on, or see how vulnerable that place to begin with, we may need to abort if security is too tight."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-02-17/0045:17>
Yelena sits in a chair and pulls up what maps and schematics are in the open domain for the airport and the area around it.  She is looking for good sniper positions and backup sniper positions, again looking for those areas that someone would occupy to keep the sniper positions under observation.  She finds two good potential sniper hides and backtracks away from them to find the places where she would hide in order to keep those places in view.  She sends a copy of the spots to Arc.  >>Srui, Yelena mark places for drones to go when leave here.  First two mark with X and then three mark with Y.  Can send drones to look at places when we leave house?<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-02-17/0940:22>
Arc sighed, allowing a slight smile at the hand pat as she nodded.  "it'll be considered..after we meet our paid rides.
 I'm not wanting us to burn that much jing and not need it, aye"
  she paused, not expecting her comm to chirp in her head as she got the message.

<<@Yelena: we will know what's up before we get there yeah.  Null sweat srui.>>

With a small groan, the mechanic stood, taking a breath.  "Im...gonna go lie down, rest up for the meet up.  Best  we all do.."  she turned to leave, pausing to give a glance to Blackbird.  "I really hope we get what you need at the airport, but I ain't gonna lie.  If it comes down to finishing your mission or heading home, I think you know where I stand.
 But all well, we get what we both want, heh.."


With a wave the human went, looking for a place to crash, her mind a whirl of thoughts...
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-02-17/1124:02>
It was easy to find the layout of the airport and cross reference it with pics to get an idea of the best positions. And in the quiet, soft light of the safe house it was difficult to keep track of time. When Arc said she was going to bed Yelena was startled to realize it was after midnight.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: SmilinIrish on <05-02-17/1337:21>
Jed glanced between Arc and Blackbird to see if there was a joke he was missing.  He had been to caught up in his thoughts to follow the conversation.  By Arc's response, he could see there wasn't a joke, but he wasn't about to weigh in on that discussion.  Nodding at Marco in response to the request to scout the airport, Jed went and emptied his bladder in preparation for the astral scout.  If these priests were there that Marco had previously described, he would need caution.  Mar...Blackbird, can the mental communication spell work for us to communicate while I am astral?  I don't think we've tried that before....
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-02-17/1540:54>
>>Multiple sailings, best option appears to be out of Swinoujscie in 21 hours. Otherwise we're either in a major rush or got too much time on our hands and I'd rather not twiddle thumbs with a hot package in hand. You got any contacts in the UCAS? We're gonna need a welcome party with a vehicle somewhere on the east coast with a quiet landing near Nuevo Amsterdam. A straight forward safe-house and clean truck with directions will suffice if no welcome party available. I'll tap up my contacts but if you can tap that angle, it'll speed things up.<<

@Lena: I'll check things out with some people I know, but I can't make any promises at the moment.  I'll let you know as soon as I have more information.  Do you have any idea of the budget we can work with?

Na'Nele decided to see if Jean-Jacques Leroy knew people in the UCAS.  She knew a talismonger there, but Jean-Jacques was in the smuggling business and probably knew more people in the same business.  She send him a message.
Hey Jean-Jacques.  How are you doing?  I'm currently in Poland and I have to get a group to the UCAS.  Someone local is putting the first part together, but I'm asked to see about the arrival.  Do you know some people in the vicinity of New York who can pick us up, or provide a vehicle and put us in a safe house for a couple of days?
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-02-17/2222:26>
@ NaNele  >>Hey, how you be? Work is good, yes? I have place, pretty quiet, pretty nice. 10k a night. You need better? I got better. I fix everything. Chauffeured ride. Nice new clothes. I got everything you need. I give you good price. <<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-03-17/0739:22>
@ Jean-Jacques >>I can't really complain, except that it's frakkin' cold out here.  I'll propose this to the group and I'll get back to you.  They first have to get to New York or close to it, so we still have some time.  I don't think it has to be all that luxurious, just basic amenities and a clean vehicle to get around in. <<

@Lena: I've found something in the vicinity of New York.  Don't know the address yet, but it's 10K a night.  That might be quite a lot, so I'll keep looking.  Do you know how long they want to stay there?

When she thought about it, there was actually quite a lot she didn't know yet.  Normally the route was set in advance, but here it seemed that a lot was still quite 'flou'.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-03-17/1717:26>
@Nanele 10k is alright as a ballpark providing that's big enough for 6, need more deets before we seal the deal though. Ideally need it on the beach or near it (private jetty would be ideal) somewhere close-ish to the shipping routes into the harbour. Vehicle is a one-use only to get into the city. That's as far as we need to go, Job's done at that point. Basic food/drink/bed/bath should do it.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-03-17/1733:45>
Jed glanced between Arc and Blackbird to see if there was a joke he was missing.  He had been to caught up in his thoughts to follow the conversation.  By Arc's response, he could see there wasn't a joke, but he wasn't about to weigh in on that discussion.  Nodding at Marco in response to the request to scout the airport, Jed went and emptied his bladder in preparation for the astral scout.  If these priests were there that Marco had previously described, he would need caution.  Mar...Blackbird, can the mental communication spell work for us to communicate while I am astral?  I don't think we've tried that before....

Marco said "I do not see why it should not work, I mean I know that such effect is possible because I am mentally linked to my spirits which spend most of their times in the astral. I assume that my spells work similarly but we will not know unless we try."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-04-17/1201:21>
@Lena: I'll get more information and if it's okay, I'll tentatively accept until we get the group together and can get final confirmation.

Then she send a message back to Jean-Jacques:
it sounds fine, provided it's big enough for 6.  We only need basic food/drink/bed/bath.  Ideally it's close to the beach with a private jetty (close to the beach is more important than the jetty of course) and close to the shipping routes to the harbour.  The vehicle is one use to get into the city.  Final confirmation will come later.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-04-17/1534:38>
@ NaNele  >>I copy dat. I fix good. Bargain price. Seaside kinda place. No problem<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-17/1254:14>
For Arc the time was all too short before Yelena came into the bunk room to wake her.  "Srui.  Is time to go.  Dress in suit for cold water."

Yelena makes a last visit to the bathroom then climbs into a wet suit for the trip back.  She makes sure that the hermetic seals on her weapons case are good then announces that she is ready to go.  She helps Arc and Jedediah get into there suits.  As she sips the man in, she leans in close and whispers to him.  "PI man alright?  Jedediah know Yelena help if need, right?  Can come with you for moral support if want."

As people finish getting ready, Yelena nods to Blackbird, who takes the lead and leaves first, followed by Jed then Arc and Yelena.  Soon enough, all are back at the edge of the lake and removing the outer layer of wet suits and making ready to go to the restaurant.  Yelena sends a message off while waiting for everyone to indicate they are ready.  >>Sam [Yelena]:  Jedediah plans to go see woman in picture.  Does Sam know anything the PI man should know about woman.  Maybe why picture was in Nicolai safe house?<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-07-17/1301:13>
@ NaNele  >>I copy dat. I fix good. Bargain price. Seaside kinda place. No problem<<

Sounds good.  I'll confirm as soon as I can and I'll get back to you at the same time about the timing involved.

She was almost where she had to be and she'd better be ready for anything.  This was of course impossible, but she did become more alert, checking her surroundings to make sure she could make a quick getaway if needed.

Soon they arrived at the restaurant, a dark blue (the driver called it Monaco blue) BMW X89 stretch with an extra row of seats in the back, as they would have to transport 6 people and the driver, plus all the gear.  The driver parked the car on the parking on the side of the building, so they weren't visible from the road.  Na'Nele got out and looked around.  They were a bit early, but you could never know.

She also send a message to Lena telling she had arrived with the car at the restaurant.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-07-17/1321:57>
Arc was already awake when Yelena entered, having gotten the three hours of sleep she required.  Instead, she was eating away at another ration pack when the elf came in.  Nodding, she silently gathered her things, packing in the rest as she geared up.  Slipping on the wetsuit, she grimaced at the snug confines of the material, shouldering her pack after sealing it in a watertight bag and making the swim.

She was uncharacteristically silent as they regathered themselves, hastily putting on her coat as the chill of the air hit her skin.  "Hnn..drek all.." she muttered as everyone got ready.  Taking up the rear of the procession, she went with the group, her eyes drinking in the sights of the town as they went to the rendezvous point.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-17/1513:13>
The safe house had been warm and the water had been cold, but they were prepared for that in their wetsuits.  Little could be done to have them ready for the bitter cold of the early morning.  Still, every movement was one step closer to getting each of them onto the next phase of their lives.  The four changed as quickly as possible, putting on some of the warm clothes taken from the safe house then began walking to the rendezvous spot, apparently the fancy restaurant that Blackbird had been raving about.  The group pauses a couple of blocks away from the eatery so that Arc can send her eyes out to look around the area.  Jedediah's contact had told them to look for a BMW limo and sure enough, there was one parked off to the side of the building, as if waiting to pick up some well-heeled customer inside for breakfast. or an early lunch.  Arc shares the feeds with the others and Yelena nods as she watches, asking Arc to send them to look at several places where she would hide if this was a set up to have them killed. 

Arc complies but there is nothing in any of the sites Yelena has suggested that would indicate that this is a trap.  A dark-skinned female Orc is standing outside the car, her breath misting slightly as she waits.  The drones show that there is a man inside the car on the driver's side.  Yelena tells the others to move a bit closer and she will make contact with the car and its occupants.  She is armed with the contact code and password from Jedediah and moves forward, asking Arc to keep one of the eyes on the woman and another flitting about the various potential ambush sites. 

Yelena is dressed in the jeans and shirt they found in the safe house that most closely fits her and wearing one of the coats that they had found.  Everything says that she is one of the locals except her snowy white hair and the fact that she is an Elf, which although not common is not enough to make her stand out as a foreigner.  She is carrying her weapons case but her silenced Predator is under the coat where she can get to it easily.  Approaching the woman, Yelena notes the professional stance of the other and smiles to herself when she is given a professional once over as she walks up.  At least they did not send an amateur.  Yelena stops a few feet away from the car and pulls a silver cigarette case from a pocket of her coat and removes one of her thin cigars.  Looking at the other woman, she motions with the cigar and asks for a light, adding in the first part of the coded password, speaking in Russian.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-07-17/1606:37>
Na'nele was looking around when someone approached her.  She expected more people, but this was always the tricky part and she couldn't blame the group for sending one ahead to scout.  Of course, it could also be a local, as she was dressed as one.  But something in her step made Na'Nele think she wasn't a local.  First of all, she shifted her vision to the astral.  There were very few magically active people in this part of Poland, so if she was, it would be a big clue.

It was quickly clear that she wasn't awakened, but she did have quite a lot of cyberwear all over her body.  Also Na'Nele could see some substance abuse in her aura and it was clear that she was a bit nervous, but also quite alert.  This was no local, that much was clear.

The woman stopped a bit away from the car and took out a cigarette before asking something in a language Na'Nele didn't understand.  Probably she asked for a light.
"I'm sorry, I don't smoke," Na'Nele said in English.  She also made sure she was standing behind the armoured door of the car, just in case.

[spoiler]
assensing roll:
assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/514859): 6d6t5 3
[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-07-17/1619:32>
It wasn't long before Lena had the kit in the van and a route planned for picking up a second-hand RIB boat, heading via the Dom Polski. If Nanele's guys were good, this should be a relatively straight-forward job.
She'd packed plenty of outdoors kit, but gone light on weapons, just the revolver in the smuggling compartment as the big guns would take far more creative license than she wanted to risk for this kind of work.
She swung by the liquor store on the way out of town and loaded up with russian vodka, cigs, tobacco pouches, beers and plenty of snacks plus a couple of pre-loaded trid chips and stashed it all in the back of the van.
Hitting the motorway, she opened the throttle before slaving over to gridguide and pinged a message over to the user on the for-sale board. Hi, I'm interested in that RIB+ trailer you've got up for sale. I'll swing by and have a look this afternoon
[spoiler]
haggling roll:
haggling for price on the RIB boat + trailer (inc gear, adept and quality bonuses) (http://orokos.com/roll/514871): 15d6t5 5 [/spoiler]

Quote
Sounds good.  I'll confirm as soon as I can and I'll get back to you at the same time about the timing involved.

Ok, sounds good. See you shortly, on my way now.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-17/1635:59>
yelena puts her case on the ground at her feet and fishes a lighter from another of the coat's pockets, replying in her style of broken English.  "Is Ok.  I find one."  She lights her cigar and the acrid odor of the smoke wafts over to the Ork.  Yelena smiles at the other woman, appreciating her caution in using the open door of the car for a degree of protection, and gives her part of the code phrase.  "Weather is warm here for season.  Wonder if is same on ocean."  She knows that Arc has an eye on her and is picking up the conversation on her feeds. 
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-07-17/2139:59>
The RIB had been in better condition than Lena had expected and the young man who'd sold it to her had come down on the price. He'd also tried to chat her up and she'd had to admit he'd been good-looking.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-07-17/2142:40>
@ Yelena  Sam replied, >>No idea why that pic would be there. I'll have Shadowdancer do some digging. But, do you know if Marco is planning to go after his old mentor. He leaves in less than two hours and you haven't given yourselves much of a window to get to his private airstrip.<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-07-17/2156:43>
>>Sam [Yelena}: We are on the way to the airstrip now to pick up the man.  I am not completely sure what Blackbird intends to do to or with him, but some sort of mind probe and drugs is being considered.  I do not know why he wanted to wait this long.  Thank you for looking into the woman.  She is important to my friend.<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-08-17/0755:29>
Arc followed the instructions to the letter, sending her drones out when there were no bystanders to witness it.  Keeping it casual and letting them slip out from the jacket of her sleeve, she kept walking as her mind pulled up their individual feeds, sharing them as necessary as she scouted ahead, always keeping her gaze forward so as not to arouse any undue suspicion.  Part of her knew that this was all likely unnecessary, but she kept her mouth shut for the while, as she understood Yelena's worry as well.  As they neared the rendezvous point, she paused, waiting with the men and sharing the feed while Yelena went on ahead.

The mechanic found herself scrutinizing the car, getting an aerial view whilst also zooming in on the ork that was waiting nearby.  It must have been experience, to know the ork lady was likely a contact for them, to discern her from the surrounding masses.  But it seemed like things were going well, prompting Arc to smile and nod at the situation.

<<@Yelena{Arc}: Ready to move on your go ahead.  They betta have the heat on>>
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-08-17/1205:24>
"Weather is warm here for season.  Wonder if is same on ocean."

So it was her contact, or at least one of them.
"It's cold over the ocean.  If you plan a voyage, I'd take a coat," she said, using the second part of the code phrase.  It was then that she spotted the small drone flying around.  Clearly they had sent one member, probably their face, to make contact while the rest of the group was sitting around ready in case it turned violent.  This was clearly a professional group, or at least a paranoid group.  It was quite different from some others she had helped over borders in the past.

"The car is ready," she continued, "I'm just waiting for one more person who has the travel plans for the first leg of the journey."

She quickly accessed her commlink and send a message to Lena.
Made contact with the group.  Do you come here or do we meet up somewhere else?
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-08-17/1700:14>
I'm en-route, the brief was vague, I was under the impression we were ready to go now. What's the team's plan?
Seizing manual control of the vehicle again she tugged the AR  stick and opened the throttle, pulling off the freeway and clattering through the junction almost forgetting she had a trailer hooked up on the back as it skittered about. She backed off a bit and checked the directions, she was about 5-10 mins away..
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-08-17/2055:31>
@ Yelena  >>My data shows you closer to the main airport than to Gabriel's private airstrip. And without you already in route you won't have time to get there before he takes off.<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-09-17/0045:35>
Yelena smiles at the Ork.  "Am ready.  Others coming now.  Is heater on in car?"

She also sends a couple of messages.  >>Sam [Yelena]:  Yelena thank for message.  Maybe Blackbird can call and delay priest man.<<  >>Team [Yelena]:  Is car.  Woman knows code.  Come over as if own car and get in.  Blackbird, Sam says priest man is at private airstrip and car is too far.  Blackbird call priest man and delay him?<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-09-17/0917:50>
"Of course it is on," Na'Nele said, "it's so frakkin' cold in here."
It was the first thing she had done when stepping into the car, turn the heater to maximum.  Europe was not a bad place to live, especially compared to Lagos, but there at least the temperature allowed you to go outside without ten layers of clothing.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-09-17/0959:29>
Arc felt a sigh of relief escape her lups at the go ahead, a thought ctossing her mind as she nodded to the two gentlemen to move.  <<Wiz.  You tell them of our little detour, yeah?  They cool with it?>>

It wasn't long before the drones were recalling, alighting onto the short tusked redhead as she came into view of the car.  Her green cyber eyes scanned the scene before her as she walked fairly quickly to the car, hands in pockets.  As she made eye contact with the ork woman, she gave a nod and a grin.  "A'trast vala'a, skraa'cha." she muttered with a wink before popping the door open, throwong in her gear pack and taking a seat...
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-09-17/1159:25>
The traffic wasn't bad and the day was bright and sunny giving Arc a good view of the different architecture and culture. And, as she looked around she found that even the use of the ARO' was different than back home.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-09-17/1217:03>
"I have no idea what you just said," Na'Nele said to the - Orc - Human... Human woman.  Why she had tusks, she didn't know, but from what she could see it wasn't an Orc.
"As soon as everybody is in, we just have to wait for the person who arranged the first part of the trip," she continued, "then we can go."

Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-09-17/1657:40>
Marco heads up to the van doing the necessary rituals of suiting suiting - he does not speak and his thoughts are all over the place. Out of it all he feels incompetent and lost - despite the bravado in the bunker - can he really do that? Should he really revert to such methods? Perhaps if he played so dirty then they already won. So many decisions...

He sat in the car as it speed up through the night, knowing very well that his entire life path may change yet again in a few hours - and not even thinking that he will ever set foot in his beloved city again. "Oh Seattle, a city filled with genitals... so many people wanted a piece of me. Darn it... why couldn't I just follow my heart like a normal person. Life is pure shit right now what am I doing in Poland."

If Marco notices that Yelena is texting Sam about meetup he will abort the mission and give up this opportunity - as he does not trust Sam and if the devil has them tracked then god knows what he plans for them.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-10-17/0159:03>
Yelena  stands outside of the car while her companions come up and helps them all get inside.  Once all are in the limo, she turns to the Ork.  "Have name?  Mine is Yelena."  She holds out her silver case to the woman.  "Smoke?  Is strong but good.  How long wait?"

>>Team [Yelena]:  All here but waiting for one more to arrive to help guide us.  Blackbird, can you delay priest?  We still go private airport?<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-10-17/0208:11>
Blackbird greets the driver and takes a seat "I afriad that we cannot wait", he said. "We can meet whoever is late at the airport. It is a long road so it does not matter who meets us when."
[spoiler]
It is unlikely that Marco would delay to be late to the meetup - I am busy he has all the time and motivations to be there in time - and he would not have agreed to this whole meetup if he thought that we won't be there in time.
Should I RP him buying a bike and speeding into the night to get to the airport on time?

[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-10-17/0529:43>
"I'm Na'Nele," she replied, while holding up her hand to indicate she didn't want a smoke, "but I also go by the nickname Hyena.  And we'll have to wait about 5 to 10 minutes."

As the others arrived as well, she checked them out on the astral to know who she was dealing with.  She was quite sure the ones of the group who could do it, would be doing it with her as well.
The first person coming out, the human with the tusks, was clearly mundane and had cyber, including a full arm as far as Hyena could see.  She seemed a bit nervous, but that was normal.
The second person, an elf by the look of it, was clearly awakened and had high magic and no cyber, like most awakened.  He also had a power focus she could easily see and some bound spirits she could see the links to.  This was clearly a mage.  From what she could see he had a passion for something, he seemed very anxious and it had some dark lining to it.  But as she was sure she too had some darkness in her aura from her past, she didn't pay it much attention.  As long as he wasn't a blood mage or insect shaman, she could live with some darkness.  Nobody was perfect.
The last person she couldn't see much from.  He was also awakened, but she couldn't see much beyond that.
They all looked healthy, which was already a good thing.  It was much easier smuggling healthy people around.

When Blackbird told them there was no time, she turned to him.
"Why is there no time," she asked, "As I understood things, we were going by boat to make sure all your equipment can go as well, not by plane and there is more than enough time to get to the harbour".
'That probably explains the anxiousness,' she thought.

[spoiler]
I'll do the assensing rolls as the posts have come: so Arc, Blackbird and then Jed.
intuition 4 + assensing 1 + perceptive 1 =6 (http://orokos.com/roll/515513): 3#6d6t5 2 4 1

-Arc: 2 hits
-Blackbird: 4
-Jed: 1

the dark lining to Blackbirds emotions I've put in as he has dark thoughts about to this guy you're going after.
If I made any mistake in my assensing description, please let me know.
[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-10-17/0754:25>
The tusked human blinked twice, cracking a little smirk at the reply and  gave a shrug.  "My bad.  Name's Arc."  Her green cybereyes blinked as she took the ork in closer view this time before hopping in, making room for the rest of the team to pile in before the conversations got started.

Looking to the side, she frowned as she shook her head.  "Misnomer.  What is tryna be said ish that it bein' asked to run by a private airstrip a bit from here on the way out.  One of ush got some unfinished biz-biz and all that.."  Her eyes fell on Blackbird as that happened, then to Yelena, conveying that the human clearly didn't feel comfortable talking terms with this matter.  Her shoulders slumped wearily as her bright aura conveyed her uncertainty.

They gonna say no...no reason to help.  Shoulda told them sooner...  Her doubt raced through her mind as she blinked, feeling a morning wave of queasiness hitting her, fighting it down without expressing the discomfort.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-10-17/0840:24>
[spoiler]
Marco has an adept power that makes assessing him more difficult so there are only two hits there. (-3 dice)
[/spoiler]
Na'Nele can clearly identify Marco as an awakened with well-developed magic (she only knows if it is equal/higher/lower than her own -Marco's magic is 6). She can see multiple bound spirits to a point that requires charisma and personal charm to keep so many of them bounded.  The man's emotions are an enigma, they are deeper than most, and the surface emotions are kept calm and obscure anything below them.  Yes, clearly a mage she concludes, if she does get a glimpse of some deeper emotions it is one of pain and regret - what ever the man is about to do - he does so out of desperation.

"Great meeting you Na'Nele he said and extanded a hand. "We have a meeting that we are not invited to. If we are not there in time no point of being there at all."
He thinks "Darn it Arc, we should have met them at the airport with our own ride - now I have to wait for more witnesses to our crimes."

Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-10-17/1216:12>
"I'm sorry," Hyena said, "we were not informed about that, so we assumed that we could plan the trip as we thought would be best.  But if you have to make a side-trip, I'm sure we can arrange something if needed.  If you could give me some details, mostly time and location, I'll check with Lena how that would affect the schedule."

One thing she had learned as a smuggler was to be flexible.  Clients sometimes showed up with three times the luggage they said they would have and you had to be able to accomodate it.  This small side-trip was actually a fairly minor detail, since she didn't think the schedule to get on the boat would be that tight.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-10-17/1307:50>
Marco smiled "Well, we need to be at this location yesterday. My mentor should pass there and there are some questions that can only be answered in person. If we miss him than the opportunity is gone. "
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-10-17/1342:25>
"Yesterday is going to be quite difficult," Na'Nele said, "the car is fast, but not that fast.  But I've noticed that you have some spirits around you.  Can't one of them delay the plane.  A mage friend once used a spirit to have a truck break down.  I'm sure they can do the same with a plane.  That gives us more time to get there."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-10-17/1536:48>
Lena pulled and saw NaNele's ikon in her AR overlay and looked for the nearest parking space before hopping out and heading over.
Hey, name's Lena. Here to get you where you need to go. We ready to move out? Only have 20 or so hours now so anything you need to sort, sort soon.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-10-17/1627:39>
Marco sighed "I need a ride and some creative thinking, my sister is kidnapped and is being tortured as we speak. A person who may know something about it, at least the only one I can imagine that is connected enough to know something about it is at a private airfield not far from here.

I trust that person, I would not say that we are friends but we are not enemies. The information I need from him cannot come willingly I will have to take it - or at least leave that man with a convincing story that I forcibly took it. I am a mage, a powerful one - more than a mage really a mystic adept. I can connect with him telepathically -ask him questions in a manner that no technology can record.

Perhaps with such a communication method - he will be kind to me. He will listen, feel my pain and let me know what I need to. If he won't well... Plan B is to have Yelena, the best sniper in the buissness take a shot of gel round.  I can then invade his mind and try to take what I want... but I am uncertain that I can pull it off.  once because he is a considerably better mage than myself, with decades of expirience and time used to polish his capabilities.  Second because I am uncertain if I can bring myself to intrude into the mind of a man that was nothing but fair to me. I mean, I want to save my sister - we are twins, if she dies part of me dies, but... "

he stops
"I am talking too much, I need a favor - I can reimburse you but essentially it is a favor. I need to get to that airfield and I need to talk to a man that I have a very complex relationship with. This reunion may devolve into violence and the man is a gifted and very dangerous mage. I really cannot speak more of the issue and keep my emotions in check, please forgive me. I need a personal minute. I cannot possibly try to convince you to help me I was so preoccupied with my idle thoughts and emotions that I did not even make a proper plan. There is really no reason to help me."

He took a few steps out of the car, collapsed on the snow with his knees and began praying, praying for some strength, some direction or some hope. For some light - and something to expect. For his sister, for himself and for impossible forgiveness.

Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-11-17/0043:54>
Yelena watches as Blackbird leaves the car to go kneel in the snow and pray to a god that does not exist.  She slips out of the car as well, but to smoke.  She is still there when another vehicle pulls up and another woman arrives, presumable the other coyote that is to see them on the next leg.  She holds out a hand to the new arrival.  "Am Yelena.  Man in snow is Blackbird, Arc and Jedediah in car waiting for praying to stop.  We need go small private airport to meet priest man and plane.  Can do this and still make boat?  If not, we need another way out of country."  She offers the new woman a thin cigar from a silver case.  If it is like the one she currently has between her lips, it is an acrid smelling thing.

Yelena watches Blackbird for a couple of minutes then goes to crouch down in front of him.  "Hey, Blackbird.  Why rely on god who rarely answers when have friends who will give answers and will help.  Friends better than God.  If in hurry then stand up and get in car.  We need go stop priest from leaving.  Send spirit or send message and then get in car.  Talk to your god on own time."  She finishes her cigar and field strips the butt before putting the remains in a pocket and stands up.  She looks down at the man in the snow and offers a hand to help him stand.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-11-17/0210:02>
Marco gets up and cleans his legs "I admire your support, I really do. I do not pray the Lord, I tried that path and failed horribly.  At the end of the day, I am very far from the selfless crusader that I once aspired to be. A failure in a Catholic perspective.   Still, I go for great distances to the few that I love. My rivals seem to think that they can manipulate me with grief. Please be safe, Yelena if the plan seems off to you then we do not do it. My emotions are too strong to see clearly and they will get more intense if I meet Gabriel."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-11-17/0229:27>
Yelena nods.  "Yelena tell Blackbird if plan sounds wrong.  Now come car so can leave.  How stop Gabriel from leaving?"

Once at the car, she nods to the coyotes.  "OK.  Team ready go small airfield.  Drive slow when get close."  She smiles at both of them.  "Welcome to family.  Get us there safe."

She slides into the car, letting the coyotes work out the routes.  Yelena looks over at Arc.  "Srui need send drones out again.  Go correct airfield this time.  Map not clear on much around it so need eyes there."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-11-17/0529:20>
"I'll help you," Na'Nele said when she heard why they had to go to the airport.
"I've been doing similar things for years," she added, "liberating children from Cherubiums, helping women who were abducted or oppressed.  And with 20 hours we should have enough time."

She turned to Lena.
"Hey, I'm Na'nele.  Nice to meet you.  As you probably heard, we're a bit stressed for time.  Will you follow with your own car or will you leave it here and pick it up later?"

As soon as everybody was in the car(s), they moved off towards the private airfield.
"Do you have more information," she asked to Marco, "like type of plane, departure time, things like that."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-11-17/0928:14>
Prayer has survived for thousands of years and been used by almost every religion. Not because the majority of people get an answer from their god. But because the very act of praying, of humbling themselves, gives them a moment of peace, a moment where they lay their burden down before another whom they perceive as greater than themselves. Right now Marco is lost. He doesn't know who he is, what he worships, what he even believes. He's done things he'd sworn he'd never do, acted against every religious teaching, and now he was adrift. He'd given himself to Agrat, and sundered himself from her. He'd given himself to the Christian god, and sundered himself from him. And in that moment of confession and humility to the group, where he had admitted just how lost and afraid he was, he'd instinctively gone to pray. And the act of prayer had shown him something about himself, about the man he was becoming.

As cold as it was a man kneeling in the snow attracted a little attention from the passersby. And, none stopped to offer any aid.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-11-17/0957:16>
Arc sat in the car as half the group stepped outside, fighting her own nausea as she focused out the window.  The blue sky above shone in contrast to the foreign and intriguing AR-infused skyline of the city they were in.  Looking to Jed, she offered a small smile before her eyes widened, her body instinctively moving to dart out the door on the other side.  Deciding to retch in the back and out of view of the public, she runded the corner just in time for Yelena to give her insteuction...and for their other coyote to arrive.

Smiling tiredly, the short tusked girl nodded to Yelena and then to the halfer that had introduced herself as Lena.  "Arc.
 I'll provide eyesh ahead and shend the fed over"
  pulling up her right jacket sleeve, the chrome of her cyber arm shone in the light as she opened a compartment, her two fly-spy drones taking flight, following her commands before zooming off in a fan pattern.
"Jusht give me the locale.  I should be good from here out,
Aye?"
  clapping the elf on the back and giving Blackbird a supportive look, the mechanic slipped inside, her read hair fanning behind her as she rejoined the warmth.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-11-17/1645:21>
Fuck's sake, she thought to herself. Never gets any easier.
She ran the maths of the routes out. They had about 19 hours until the ship sailed and realistically needed an hour to make the port and some faffing about time, so realistically had a 17 hour operating window.
Yeah, we're good for time; we've got 17 hours to comfortably make the sailing. If you can do your stuff in that window we're still good. As for the job in hand, I don't mind helping out but I packed light and I'm not wading into a war for a favour. What does the reimbursement come to?
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-11-17/1945:05>
Feeling revived by prayer, Marco surveyed the new arrivals with his new sense. He noted that the two were awakened and any other thing that came to mind. He did not expect much mainly did that for practicing, yet, he was keen to detail despite sketchy knowledge of the art. People has desires, and perhaps these can be used to establish some trust and commitment. He can pay them, but was it wise to just throw money at them for a side job? That would set the dynamics wrong. "I ask for a favor so I should offer one in return."

[spoiler]
2 hits on Na'Nele and 5 on Nela
Assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/515909): 2#8d6t5 2 5
[/spoiler] 

Marco said "You are a good person Na'nele. I do not have much information, but here is what my contact has sent me. I can text for more." He shared all the information with her and texted Sam for what other relevant information he had such as plane typ e. To Yelena he just smiled, few words could describe what he felt without leading the situation to an emotional deadlock. "The man with magical words is speechless - how ironic." He thought to himself.

When Lena mentions reimbursements he said "Perhaps I can craft you a magical focus? Something discreet and innocent looking? Is there anything you want in that department?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-12-17/0019:17>
Yelena sits in the limo, waiting for it to start up so they can get to the site, and scanning the drone feeds that Arc is sending her.  She focuses on one spot and speaks in a soft voice.  "Srui, Yelena mark spot as point 1 and point 2.  Can send eyes to look close at both?  Point 1 is good place Yelena hide.  Point 2 is good place someone hide to watch point 1."  She continues to watch the feeds closely, looking for any telltale that someone is expecting trouble at the airfield, or even just being very careful.

She does look up when Blackbird talks about mojo with the two coyotes.  She narrows her eyes a bit and looks at both of them.  "Coyotes are mojo slingers?  Much ability for simple extraction.  Coyotes expect trouble along way?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-12-17/0150:25>
As Yelena studies a simple public transit map for an idea of the layout she can only hazard a few guesses as to where she would hide. She needs the feeds from Arc's drones. But, even traveling as the crow flies it will take time to have them in place. Hopefully it is enough time to let her infiltrate the area.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-12-17/0655:54>
As soon as everybody was in the car and Na'Nele had got the destination, she gave it to the driver so they could go.  Everything else could be arranged in the car while it moved.
"I am indeed magically active," she said to Yelena, "It saved my family from starvation.  But I don't sling mojo, I'm an adept, or so they called it.  And I always expect trouble.  The moment you don't, that's the moment when the ekyelebenles come slithering out of the jungle."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-12-17/1209:51>
@marco
yeah, that works for me. Let's sort the deets another time and just get this job done so we can make the sailing
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-12-17/1258:46>
Arc nodded, making way for the dwarven coyote as she quelled a turning of her stomach, focusing herself for the job at hand.  "After yeh."  Nodding, she helped Marco and Yelena in before hopping up, shutting the door and resuming her seat, the drones continuing their path to the destination as the limo started to move.

The mechanic listened intently to the conversations, her memory piquing at what Blackbird said about using magic in this sense...and how risky it could be.  Means we need some Matrix support...I use it, but I am not a shark in the trix...ah...  She opened her mouth, turning to look at Jed...but seeing his eyes closed, she remembered he was currently scouting the place in the astral.  No good, not enough time...I wonder if....no.  Firefly said she was in trouble.  I ain't gonna ping her directly, especially if the Yak knows I paid her debt off.  Great...

Visibly slumping back on the chair, the tusked girl covered her eyes in frustration, wracking her brain...and when she let her arms fall again, she tilted her head, looking curiously dead ahead.  I wonder...

Rebooting her link to clean it, she pulled up her contacts until she found the one she wanted, recalling her street slang codewords to be on the safe side.

<<@Chesh{Arc}:  Hoi.  I'd exchange pleasantries, but you're likely busy and I'm on a time crunch.  So I'll get to the point.  You have an accountant, yes?  I'm in need of some long range consultation if so.  My next scrap piece is yours free o charge for this, I think that's fair, yeah?  Hmu>>
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-12-17/1319:11>
Chesh was helping Daisy with her homework when Arc's message came in and as she scanned it she immediately knew Arc was in deep trouble. Calling up the Flotter tutorial to help Daisy she contacted Snap. >>Yo, you up for a paying job? Those what we helped a month back are looking for an accountant right now. Willing to pay double the usual price. Don't let the money fool you into a quick yes. That lot attracts lightning like a rod and those sorts of jobs can leave a mark on you.<< The girl had proven herself more than capable of handling trouble. She'd earned the respect of being offered the job. But, part of Chesh really wished she wouldn't take it, The Smiley Face Savior's, as the press had dubbed them, weren't the only ones that attracted trouble, 'Lil, no Snap, attracted plenty of her own.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-12-17/1448:33>
Marco said "Agreed, they'll be plenty of time to conjure something in the ship. You'll find out that I am quite passionate about the whole process.  You too Na'Nele, we'll figure something out in the meanwhile we need to delay my colleague, and we better go mundane. The man will be hyper aware to magic, but likely has little awareness to technology. After all they feel that is a distraction in the way to 'awakening'", Marco said.

His eyes were jumping from someone to another and he was thinking out loudly.  " We need some matrix magc,  tackle the man on his weak bases...  If only Firefly could come with us...
Well I bet that Shadow dancer can help - but do I really want to ask him to do something illegal? Knowing who he really work for? might be wise to let them break their own rules.... Besides we need to stand on our feet can't be clingy. " He sighed frustrated.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-13-17/2339:08>
Yelena sits in the back of the limo and waits for Arc's little eyes to get into position to report what they see.  She realizes that there may be little time to make it all happen and wants to be as ready as possible.  She pulls her case onto the seat next to her and enters the codes to open the latches, lifting the lid and exposing the resting place for her weapons.  Yelena runs a hand lovingly across the wood and metal of the various components of her sniper rifle then takes them out, assembling the weapon in a series of competent and efficient moves that waste no energy or motion.  Once the rifle is complete, she takes out several clips of ammunition and carefully inspects each one, removing all the rounds and looking at them again before reloading the clips, which she stores away in various pockets of the coat she is wearing.  Done, she closes the case and resets the code to open it before placing it on the floor at her feet.

She looks over at Blackbird and smiles.  "Yelena ready.  If not much time, car drop Yelena off near hide and Yelena go there while car take Blackbird and others to meeting."  She looks at the coyotes.  "Yelena know coyote job to get us to transportation but have any experience spotting for sniper?  Yelena can do but extra eyes might help."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-14-17/0238:55>
I know my way around a hunting rifle, I guide for parties up in the tatras. I don't mind helping you with that.
She grabbed her kit from the smuggling compartment and stuck the heavy revolver in its holster, donned her focus and generally 'made ready', mentally cursing herself for packing light
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-14-17/0256:22>
Yelena smiles at Lena.  "Thank you.  Which side?  Poland or Slovakia.  Yelena go Slovakian side once.  Was many years ago....maybe twenty?  Yelena working in Europe then.  Very pretty place.  Yelena was hunting, too."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-14-17/1153:20>
They drive. The traffic on the roads is heavy and they are competing with many vehicles all trying to make the best time to their destination. Pulling up a simple maps program of the area They see that the airstrip is small. And on the private estate of a clothing manufacturer. From the air the area is fairly open with the airstrip being well away from the pool and tennis courts. It was situated well away from the city and finding an ideal sniper position was going to be difficult given the terrain. Arc's flyspies were already starting to show the area leading to the airstrip. It consisted mostly of bare underbrush and trees blanketed by snow.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-14-17/1205:54>
"Then you do that," Na'Nele said to Lena, "I'm better close up.  I'm used to going in jungles and there you don't have those long ranges."

She looked at the others.
"Where do you want me," she asked, "I can do both ranged as melee combat if needed and I brought the tools for both."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-14-17/1423:29>
Yelena looks at the feeds coming in and grimaces slightly at the lack of any really good hide for her purposes.  She mentally factors in estimated ranges then looks over at Arc.  "Srui, Yelena send three locations for eye to look.  Yelena want to use this tree so need check out other sites to see if anyone hiding there.  Is long way from target so will need good shot."  She looks over at the two coyotes.  "Na'Nele, Yelena and Lena leave car at location I am sending now.  We go to tree and set up while car goes on.  Can tell driver?  Lena have scope to see?  Or implant?"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Jayde Moon on <05-14-17/1539:47>
Snap was lying on a car dolly underneath a Ford Americar that had been brought into the shop.  They'd already checked it for any tags and now it was set to bare bones functioning while the gnome tinkered with the ownership codes.  One hand was pressed against the box while her other hand manipulated a small calibration tool.

Yes, turn it slowly, I get it.  Slowly, slower, slow... right, stop nagging...

She couldn't be in Virtual Reality due to the physical requirements of using the tool, but she could still feel the machine sprite in the vehicle's system, decrypting, encoding, and recoding the vehicle's ownership parameters.  It was a secret that she kept from anybody outside of the crew, the how of it, but the shop was known (among other things) for the handy gnome who could reliably turn a hot item into a legitimate one.

The machine sprite did most of the work, Snap just assisted with a few physical pieces.

OK, I'll go slower.  But any slower than that and I won't even be turning it!

She rolled her eyes.  How does something I compiled give me sass?

Just then, a message came through.

>>@Snap: Yo, you up for a paying job? Those what we helped a month back are looking for an accountant right now. Willing to pay double the usual price. Don't let the money fool you into a quick yes. That lot attracts lightning like a rod and those sorts of jobs can leave a mark on you.<<

Snap furrowed her brow.  A month back was... those guys who had practically saved the entire Barrens.  OK, maybe that was a bit of a stretch, but she remembered them, somewhat.  She hadn't been involved in that kerfluffle, but Chesh had been.  They needed help with something else?  And she was the one that could help them?  Interesting.

This could be her ticket forward.  Working with Chesh, Hatter, and the others was a great gig.  But with everything that had happened in the last year, Snap felt she was needed elsewhere.  She felt a calling.  She'd seen first hand the drek that the world always tried to drag Technomancers through and now she wanted to do something about it.  To strike back, to assist others.

But she didn't know where to start.  Maybe this was it.

<<@ Chesh: Is there any other info on it?  What do they need me to do?  When?  Now?  I'm about halfway through this transfer, I can stop but then I'd have to start over.  I mean, I'm interested, really... go ahead and give me their info or have em dial me.>>
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-14-17/1715:11>
@ Snap  >>'Ere's the info. But, you watch your front, back, feet, head, middle and everything in between. Mouse's engagement party is in a week and you better be there.<< Chesh bit her lip after she sent Snap the info. Gawds I hope I'm doin' the right thing. she thought to herself. "Mum, if I invert the tangent and use the value of Y to plot the signal will that work?" Daisy's voice interrupted her thoughts. "Humh. What honey? Oh!" She studies the problem. It won't, but it should help her realize that she needs to factor in both variables. "Let's try it honey." She tells Daisy and tells herself sternly to focus on the job she loves best. Being Daisy's mum. Still, she can't help but spend a bit of motherly worry on Snap.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Jayde Moon on <05-14-17/2152:20>
<<@ Chesh: Right, got it.>>

Snap checked the message.  All it contained was a commcode, nothing about what the 'mission' would entail.  Commcode for 'Arc'.  nothing to do but give it a buzz.

Alright, we're gonna have to take a break on this, come back to it later.

Acknowledged.

Great.  So you're off then.  Into the world with you.

Snap released the sprite into the world.  She didn't really know what happened to them after they went.  She had her suspicions.  GOD did it's best to decompile sprites wherever they were found and they weren't slow about finding them.  But between now and then, the sprite could take some time to... experience?  She wasn't sure.

She input the commcode and sent a quick message.

<<@Arc: Message for Arc, re: request to Chesh for assistance.  This is Snap, I don't know if you remember me, I saw you and your crew before in Carroll's.  The gnome hiding in the back?  Anyhow, told you got something I might be able to help you with and that there might be some payment involved.  Shoot me the deets and I'll see what I can drum up.>>
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-14-17/2230:06>
There was a few minutes of anticipated wait time after Arc sent the message, enough to drive her mad.  Luckily, she had the commands of Yelena to distract her, the mechanic busying herself with following orders, mapping out the area and scouting with her little bugs to get them as aware of their operating point as possible.

So when it came for her comm to go off from the anticipated reply, the human practically jumped in her seat in response...

<<@Arc: Message for Arc, re: request to Chesh for assistance.  This is Snap, I don't know if you remember me, I saw you and your crew before in Carroll's.  The gnome hiding in the back?  Anyhow, told you got something I might be able to help you with and that there might be some payment involved.  Shoot me the deets and I'll see what I can drum up.>>

Smiling, the tusked girl closed her eyes as she composed her response, logging in the commcode as belonging to this "Snap."

<<@Snap{Arc}: Hoi.  Gonna admit parts of that night were a blur after that fiery event.  Hope Chesh and Daisy weren't hurt bad from that, really.  Yeah, I got something for you, coding Alpha Too Three Niner...  Here the encryption sets in, but should be doable.  Thanks Firefly << So right now me an m'team  be hoop deep in Poland, recovering from a job.  We'll be leaving soon, but something's come up what one of us be wantin' to do.   Problem is, that something...someone...is on a private plane gearing to take off.  We don't want that to happen.  We got mojo to do it, but the dude's mojo as well, so risky. 

We need 'Trix hijinks.  You remember Firefly, but she ain't with us, dealing with her stuff.

Now, I've promised Carroll's my next total scrap that comes by my garage for offering yeh, but I've got a few K in jing I can throw your way too.  Job needs done within the next 90 minutes...think you got it?>>

<<Attachment: areamap.png>>
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Jayde Moon on <05-15-17/0034:23>
Snap looked over the datafiles.  Hrm, private airfield... private jet... 90 minutes from now...

<<@Arc: So let me get this straight, you don't want the plane to take off.  Ever?  It's doable, in any case.  The short notice shouldn't be a problem.  Shoot me the parameters and I'll see to it.>>

As she closed the message, she rolled out from under the Americar.  It occurred to her that she might have negotiated a price.  She shrugged, it would work itself out.  The airfield was halfway across the world, atmospheric interference would be an issue.  Happily, the shop boasted a fresnel fabric lined signal amplifier.  She could easily line it up with the airfield and cut through a majority of the interference.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-15-17/0049:58>
Marco moved uncomfortably in his chair and to keep his hands busy started cleaning his assault rifle, it was a retro one that was very common in Redmond - the AK-97. The gun did not have all the gizmo's of the Ares Alpha but was highly resistant to dust and could even be used underwater - or so the rumors said. At any case, he was happy to find one in the safe house. 

He looked at Na'Nele and said, "close up. we got ranged covered and are limited by shelter rather than gunpower.  I think that there is something about you that will draw Gabriel's attention."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-15-17/0138:47>
As the flyspies closed in on the perimeters of the estate Arc's picture went fuzzy and then dead. Noise.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-15-17/0243:16>
He looked at Na'Nele and said, "close up. we got ranged covered and are limited by shelter rather than gunpower.  I think that there is something about you that will draw Gabriel's attention."

"Close up it is," Na'Nele said, opening her bag and first taking out her pistol, "and don't worry, it's not the first time I'm in a fight with awakened."
Even though she had cleaned it in the morning, she checked it again and then slid in a clip with shock rounds.
"Since you were talking about interrogating this person, I'll use shock rounds," she added, "interrogation is easier if his brains aren't leaking on the tarmac."
She also checked out her taser.  it was only a secondary weapon, but at close range it could still be very useful and it was non-lethal.

Next she took out the scabbard which housed her sword.  She slid it out partially to check if it came out easily and then she put it back in the bag.  While she could explain a pistol away, it would be more difficult with a sword.  The same she did with her Ares Alpha.  Just check it, make sure a clip was in (regular ammo in this case) and then put it back.  She also made sure that there was a flash bang grenade in the first slot of her grenade launcher.  In her experience it was quite difficult to start casting spells when your brain felt on fire due to loud noises and a light show.

She also checked her goggles to make sure the smartgun systems were operational for both her pistol and rifle.  If her old Ares masters had taught her one thing, it was that preparation was key in a successful operation.  Check and double check so you didn't have to spend time checking your equipment during the op.
"So, what's the plan," she asked as they approached the airfield.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-15-17/0629:31>
Marco nodded - though they could work miracles with the medic kit and heal spell she had a point. Looking at all that gear he said half to himself half to Na'Nele... "not bad... not bad at all"
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-15-17/1014:24>
<<@Arc: So let me get this straight, you don't want the plane to take off.  Ever?  It's doable, in any case.  The short notice shouldn't be a problem.  Shoot me the parameters and I'll see to it.>>
<<@Snap {Arc}: No need for permanent.  Enough to keep the passenger on the ground for some time while we handle things.  How that happens is to you.  We are en route now if you need to contact in person>>

Sending over the rest of the parameters, Arc shifted her focus to see her drones had lost connection.  Drek.  She felt fortunate that she had programmed a failsafe after having that issue while helping Yelena pull that hit: the drones were to remain in place until signal was regained...which shouldn't be long with their trajectory.

"Matrix support ish covered." Arc blurted out, looking at the others with a relieved smirk on her face.  "Trushted contact, will do the work."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-15-17/1657:37>
"Then you do that," Na'Nele said to Lena, "I'm better close up.  I'm used to going in jungles and there you don't have those long ranges."
She nodded and checked chamber, slotting rounds into the speed loaders and stashing them on her person.

Yelena smiles at Lena.  "Thank you.  Which side?  Poland or Slovakia.  Yelena go Slovakian side once.  Was many years ago....maybe twenty?  Yelena working in Europe then.  Very pretty place.  Yelena was hunting, too."
Polish side mainly, but the slovakian side has its merits. Its a good route for my line of work so most of my "hunting trips" don't see much actual hunting get done. I love it up there though, azure blue lakes and stunning vistas. Just got to keep at least one eye on your tech though, some nasty beasties live up there. You bag any trophies on your trip? She replied, interested in what the foreigner had to say.
She continued the ritual, donning the helmet and clipping her monocle glass onto its ready rail, flicking it down and re-syncing it to her commlink, testing the image mag, enhancements and pushed her earbuds in uncomfortably far.
She'd learned her lesson years back in the 'force. "Fail to prepare, prepare to fail" It had been a mantra, one that had been recited so many times it might as well have been tattooed on her cortex.
She slipped her knucks into her jacket pocket, ready in case something went down and toyed with the familar grip as she sat ready, mentally preparing for what lay ahead.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Jayde Moon on <05-15-17/1736:38>
Snap looked over all of the information Arc sent.  It gave her the airfield, the plane in question, the time it was meant to leave.  Everything she needed to do what they asked.  She moved to the amplifier and sat in it.  Reaching over to Poland wasn't going to be easy, but the device would help.  Happily, she wasn't going to be doing the heavy lifting and for her sprites, there would be no interference for distance or even spam, once they got in the Airport's Host.

She had a plan.  And a back-up plan.

Plan A was to shut down the control tower.  It would take some time to get it up and running again.  In the meantime, most flights would be grounded without the ability to coordinate air traffic.  This should buy the team the time they needed.  If it didn't work, then simply bricking the plane was the next option.

Closing her eyes, she entered the virtual stream.  As usual, she felt a rush of euphoria.  The Matrix is where she belonged, she often felt.  More a home than the real world.  She called on one of her registered sprites to accompany her.  The first thing she wanted to do was get a good look at the host.

Arriving in virtual Poland, she found the host easily enough.  It wasn't hidden, after all, a very public host tasked with running so many of the necessary functions.  She'd have to get in and find the control tower.

Do me a favor and scan the Host, tell me what you find.

Certainly!

The sprite began looking over the host alongside Snap.  The two of them approaching the virtual structure from multiple sides.  It was unimaginatively sculpted to appear as it did in the meat world, an long building accessible from one side.  It took the two of them about five seconds to learn the most basic fact.

The Airport Host is running on a Rating 6 platform, nothing overly impressive.

Thank you.  I don't need you anymore for now, wait for me to return.

Well, that said a lot more than just that.  It gave Snap an idea of the processor and how strong the firewall might be.  It was enough information to begin a hack.  Getting into the host would be the hardest part, for that she wanted to be sure she had a hand.  She reached out into the resonance stream and began to compile.  Taking strands of ephemeral code, she wove it into a complex entity.  It took just a few moments and all of her concentration but she managed.  It took a lot out of her and even from VR she could feel the headache setting in.

Hello.  Ready to crack heads.

We are going to assist one another in entering that host there.

The sprite turned to regard the host.

Great.  When do we start?

We can start now, I'll wait once we get inside.  We'll set my MARK first, then one for you.

Alright!  Let's do it.

Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-16-17/1010:01>
Yelena sits with her sniper rifle across her knees and nods.  "Yes.  Yelena find what look for and kill it.  Place was pretty but not go Polish side."

She lifts her head up and looks at Arc when the drone feeds stop.  Nodding, she looks at Lena.  "Drones down.  Not sure if site is occupied or watched.  Need be careful.  Watch for others when get in place."  Looking over at Arc, she knows her Srui is doing her best to get her eyes back online and Yelena asking unnecessary questions will not help so she just gives her a confident nod.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-16-17/1514:08>
"An airport probably doesn't want drones overhead without clearance," Na'Nele remarked, "they can collide with an airplane and they don't want that, right?"

"Another thing," she said, "we need communications while on the job.  Some sort of network between us for instant communication.  Who's best to set that up?"
She looked at the woman controlling the drones.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-16-17/1709:50>
The ride to Poland is exhilarating as Snap hops from network to network, node to node. Most are commercial fraught with ads and distractions meant to get the casual surfer to stop and shop. Snap passes them all by in a whirlwind blur of color. But then comes the real work, hacking into the server for Poland and figuring out what host that jet is on.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-16-17/2107:06>
Arc growled a little in frustration as she realized she wasn't getting the feeds back when she should have.  The ork woman was probably right, but before she could think of a response, the other issue of communication came up.  Giving a smirk, Arc pulled her backpack onto her lap, digging through before pulling out a set of small bags.

"Microtranschievahs.  Given our working range, won't even need the 'Trix to work.  I can hook em up to comms if anyone's diving VR.  Works, yeah?"  Distributing the lot to the group, the human went back to her other issue, pulling out her RCC and giving it a few taps.

"...They probably using a specific shet of narrow band-passh filtahs to keep the frequencies they want going while jammin' up those they don't.  Makesh a lot of senshe..."  Grinning tuskily, she flipped her RCC over on her lap, pulling up the sleeve covering her cyberarm.  "Sho if I set up a variable band gain loop through the output signal generation and use a FM shweep..." 

She kept muttering as her hands and fingers reconfigured, becoming various tools as she worked the bare circuitry of her console, shifting her signal to press through the Noise...at least enough to get the recall command out to her fly-spys....
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Jayde Moon on <05-17-17/1353:24>
Wait, give me ten.

Snap opened her eyes for a moment, dropping out of VR.  She fished into her pocket and puled out a small vial.  Inside was a square tab.  Made of gel, it was infused with the drug known as Psyche.  She didn't take it often, but this was the first time she was going up against something that might try to murder her since she escaped from Technohack!tm.

She popped it into her mouth and let is dissolve under her tongue.  She got up and walked over to the refrigeration unit and pulled out a drink and a snack.  Returning to the amplifier.  She took a few minutes to look up information on the airfield, finding that it operating on the SSH grid that covered most of Poland.  With that, she closed her eyes and returned to VR, still in the rea.

It only took a moment for both the sprite and her to jump onto the SSH grid.  With that, they began their hacking.  It would only take a single MARK to enter the system.  Her plan did not require her any more access than Guest.  As long as she was in the Host, she'd be able to accomplish her task.

She started by ensuring the sprite would have access.  The two of them worked together and cut the code that would grant the sprite the single MARK it needed to get inside.  It took only a second to establish the MARK.

The Host has the most robust firewall available to it's platform.

That was useful information.  It meant the sprite had an advantage, but that Snap herself might find it a bit more challenging.  She was never by herself, but she wasn't absolutely certain this was in the bag.

The coding was injected and... nothing.  No MARK granted.

Drek.  Of course, that meant the Host had been able to place its own MARK.  This early in the process, the fix was simple.  Snap removed her consciousness from the Matrix, essentially 'rebooting' herself.  Then she reentered the Matrix and sent her consciousness streaming back across the world.  The sprite was waiting.

We try again.

The second time, they are able to get a MARK onto the system.

Alright, steady as she goes, no need to get inside just yet.

Snap had plenty of time before she needed to act, half an hour was plenty of time to hold off entering the Host.  By then, the alert from her previous botched attempt to sleaze a MARK onto the Host will have subsided and she'd be able to enter without scrutiny, just another legitimate user.

Of course, GOD was looking for her, but she had something for that.  She quickly threaded a veil around her and then camped out near the host, waiting.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-18-17/1827:51>
Private homes of the wealthy always had security measures in place. But, right now the air is quiet, peaceful, the crisp, cold morning looking like a postcard day in the woods.

[spoiler](https://rolz.org/embed?X23524205) (https://rolz.org/info?X23524205)[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Jayde Moon on <05-19-17/1245:15>
The team wasn't hard to find, especially having Arc's commcode, but Snap wasn't about to drop in uninvited to the meet.

<<@Arc: Snapdragon here... er, Snap.  I'm all set to do the dirty deed.  You got comms?  I can get on and we can coordinate.  I'll even stand by in case you need something else.>>
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-20-17/1209:02>
Arc perked up at the message, nodding her head at the contents as she finished working her rewiring of her RCC.

<<@Snap{Arc}: Aye, we got comms.  It's all off grid, but I'll patch you to my setup.  Anything I hear, you'll hear, and they hear you too>>

She nodded to the others as she sent the message, making sure everyone was hooked up before testing the comm system.

"Check check, we all good?  I got our 'Trix shupport in.  Say hello to Shnap, who is ready to make the move when we are."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Jayde Moon on <05-20-17/1342:52>
<<@All: Heya, Team!  Snapdragon, from Carroll's in the barrens, yeah?  Or jus' call me Snap.  I'll be your 'trix support today, looking forward to giving you chummers the big assist!>>

She left a moment for everyone to shoot her a welcome or ignore her if that was their choice.

<<@All: Right, so it's getting close to the time.  I've looked up the bird in question and think I know how to keep it in the nest.  So, in five minutes, I'm going to do just that, looks like you guys are close enough to make your move, so I suggest you go ahead and do it.  Snap out!>>
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-20-17/1431:25>
Yelena looks over at Arc and gets a nod from her before she responds.  >>Yelena welcome Snap.<<

She nods to the coyotes.  "Is good to stop auto.  Yelena and Lena get out.  Luck to Blackbird."

When the car slows down, Yelena is already opening the door and she slides out to roll in the snow, cradling her rifle.  She makes sure that Lena is with her then moves to her selected hide near the large tree.  She takes up her position and sights in on the aircraft, finding the man standing near the ramp.  She gets into her firing mode and regulates her breathing to allow her the best shot possible.  When ready, she whispers to Lena, "Lena let Yelena know if see odd thing."  >>Team [Yelena]:  Yelena and Lena in place.  Sending picture from sight.  Is priest or not?<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-20-17/2136:04>
The countryside is peaceful, it's looking like a beautiful day to be outside. Right now with the leaves off the trees Yelena has a decent line of sight. It could have been better. If they'd realized that the priest was on a private jet earlier and had been able to gather intel. But, Yelena is too much the professional to let that cloud her thinking. Every job has it's challenges. The ability to out-think and out maneuver those obstacles and succeed is what separates the few like herself, from all the others in jails or graves. So, she focuses, and sends what intel she can from her cam. The signal is a bit grainy, but, it's clearly the priest, and in a moment three others dressed in robes. But, Yelena is a professional, and she knows her own. They might be priests. But they are most definitely bodyguards.

[spoiler](https://rolz.org/embed?X23599301) (https://rolz.org/info?X23599301)
(https://rolz.org/embed?X23599665) (https://rolz.org/info?X23599665)[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-21-17/0308:14>
Yelena smiles to herself.  "Lena see guards?  Watch to see if they notice us here."  >>Team.  Yelena see three guards for priest.  Yelena ready for Blackbird call.  Continue or leave?<<
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-21-17/0430:49>
Na'Nele kept quiet for now, studying the images the sniper brought in.  She would follow the other's lead, as they knew the target better.  She did agree with Yelena that it those close by where probably bodyguards.  Of course, one flash-bang in the middle should take care of most of their reaction time.  She looked at Marco, as from what she had seen he was the one taking the decision.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-21-17/0534:52>
Marco texted >> Blackbird here...  Goodluck Snap!
Should he just present himself as Marco? He was not sure yet if he should come back from the dead or not. Perhaps later - but right now few people know who he really is. Snap was too much of a Seattle-born to trust with this kind of info at that specific time.

Marco nodded, and then spoke with a clear and pragmatic voice.
"Bodyguards heh? This prevents talking to the guy we will proceed with violence then.
We'll open with a flashbang and a Euphoria spell... I do not expect much for the spell as their counterspelling may be enough to undo the spell. There is little counterspelling can do against grenades - so one way or the other they'll be distracted. Yelena, after the first shock and awe move quickly and drop them one by one... can one of the cars make it to the airfield  - or should I use magic to extract the mark once he is down? "





Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-21-17/1541:03>
Yelena smiles to herself.  "Lena see guards?  Watch to see if they notice us here."  >>Team.  Yelena see three guards for priest.  Yelena ready for Blackbird call.  Continue or leave?<<
Lena dialled up the image magnification to max, laying prone on the grass with her chin resting on her arm to steady the motion of her breathing. every miniscule motion made the enhanced and heavily magnified image blur but she settled her breathing and took a really good look at the scene before her
[spoiler]Perception test inc gear bonus (http://orokos.com/roll/518407): 9d6t5 3[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-21-17/2023:00>
Lena saw the four priests, the oldest was in the center and the other three were around him, their heads in constant motion as they watched their surroundings.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-21-17/2048:44>
>>Yelena has Gel and APDS bullets.  Gel loaded now for two rounds then APDS for guards.  Yelena ask if all others are ready.  Competent guards have noise and flash compensating devices anyway.<<

After sending the message on her internal 'link, she whispers to Lena without taking her eye off the primary.  "Lena tell Yelena if things change."  Her breathing softens as she reaches out and grabs the shadow about her and brings it in to help guide her shot.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Csjarrat on <05-22-17/0716:07>
I've got eyes-on, these boys are pretty skittish. You'll get one, maybe two rounds off before they're moving him. Target first, biggest heavy next.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Qwikfix on <05-22-17/0930:55>
Arc nodded silently as Yelena and Lena both departed, wishing them luck as the door closed and they proceeded to their destination.  She gave a smile at the help from a familiar source as her ork persona gave Snapdragon the thumbs up.

<<"The help''s more than appreciated.  You do your thing, we go on your green light">>

Turning to Blackbird, the tusked girl gave a nod as she pulled her armored jacket close around her.  "Ready when you ish.
Here, one of yas take mah drone.  Should be able to work close range, and with my bugs on their way back is about all I can do to help..."

Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Jayde Moon on <05-22-17/1216:17>
<<"The help''s more than appreciated.  You do your thing, we go on your green light">>

Alright, go time!

Snap dismissed the crack sprite into the resonance and stepped into the Airfield's Host.  Inside, the sculpting was boringly crafted to resemble a small airport.  Typical.  It always galled her to step into bland constructs, the Matrix was a realm of infinite artistic possibility and Host designers were painting everything in broad strokes of beige.

Snap immediately compiled a data sprite.  This one didn't have to be robust.

Please find for me the Control Tower Command and Control node.

The data sprite zipped off.  As it did, Snap noticed a couple of 'security guards' walking her way.  Probably remnants of the alert she no doubt triggered over an hour ago.  That was ages in the Matrix and with probes being a common occurrence, hosts never allotted a significant portion of their processing power to security for long, if they didn't find anything within a few minutes.

She quickly turned her attention to the overhead displays that listed the flight information.  She had a MARK and would register to the patrol IC as a validated guest user to the host.  Until she did something unauthorized for her level of access, they would leave her alone.  Still, better to remain inconspicuous.

The data sprite returned quickly.

Finded it!  Follow MEEEE!

Snap nodded and trailed behind the sprite.  It zipped back and forth, hidden from view.  If the IC 'thought' to look for it, they'd locate it easily enough, but with no current alert, they weren't actively seeking anomalies.

At the end of the hallway, the sprite stopped and indicated a large podium.  A persona was manning the podium but not paying attention.  It was possible that the persona was an agent autonomously running the show, but just as likely that it was an actual Spider.  Either way, it would be best for Snap to act surreptitiously.

She dismissed the data sprite and then focused on pulling together the resonance streams for a far more powerful machine sprite.  Once it came to be, she radioed back to the team.

<<@Team: Chaos at the Airport begins in three.... two...

Please do me a favor and frag the control tower completely, for the next twenty minutes.

Really?  Oh, please may I!

Have at it.

With glee, the massive resonance being dove into the control tower.  The persona standing there didn't even notice the sprite enter into the icon of the Control Tower, but it was only a moment later that he noticed something was awry.    Looking over the system, Snap noticed that the persona became more frantic and then, there was a sputtering from the icon, a bang, and everything went dark.

That was what she was hoping for.  The machine sprite likely causes a major surge/outage and it was going to take the techs  some time to get it up and running again.

<<@Team: No one taking off or landing for the next 20 minutes, estimate.  You have your window.>>

She left the Machine Sprite to continue to do its work and vacated the host, looking for the actual plane in case the pilot had ideas of taking off without permission from Control.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-22-17/1719:18>
Marco said to Yelena, please do not kill anyone, stick to Gel rounds. Nobody can resurrect the dead, but if we must, killing the unconscious is trivial.

Marco prepared his body and mind for the operation, he placed his ballistic mask on top of his face and loaded his weapon with precious gel rounds. For security he summoned an additional spirit of air, the first attempt is unsuccessful, but in the second he gets 4 services.  The spirit is a spirit of Air, which suits Marco's mood since his interaction with Velenkoradi he grew fond of their ilk. He orders the spirit "protect us from anything in the astral (or dual natured spirit)."   (Marco took 1 drain summoning).

"The plan is simple and effective, we leave Yelena and Lena in a sniper position and the rest of us dash into that place with guns blazing. We subdue the guards, kidnap the mage, interrogate him, drug him and drop him off somewhere safe."

Agility boost (http://orokos.com/roll/518898): 10d6t5 4

(Providing the plan is accepted.)
At Yelena and Lenna's queue the van begins dashing toward the combatanst and Marco opens with suppressive fire, if they need to dock to cover line of sight is going to be tricky and they may find it difficult to use magic. At least for the few critical seconds the group need to subdue them.

[spoiler]
Marco uses suppressive fire. Which means that Gabriel and his bodyguards have to drop prone or roll reaction + edge if they want to move treshold of 4.  They will take a dicepool penalty of -4 for the entire combat round or until Marco commits to another action. (Which he won't).
Supressive Fire (http://orokos.com/roll/518900): 16d6t5 4
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-23-17/0129:33>
Yelena hears Blackbird but ignores the request to change her ammunition.  If the guards are good, they will not die from a hit, but it might hurt.  When ready, she whispers to her spotter.  "Going down."  Her breathing under control and wrapped in the shadow, Yelena gives the trigger of her precision killing instrument the perfect amount of pressure and fires a gel round at the priest., threading it past the guards.  Yelena knows the shot is good even as it leaves the barrel.  The second round is chambered and ready before the first hits the target.


[spoiler]Yelena fires her rifle:  Fire Sniper Rifle (http://orokos.com/roll/518780): 21d6t5 8  8 hits.  DV is 13 + Net Hits Stun only, AP-3,  -2 dice for knockdown resistance[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-24-17/0939:36>
@ Subaru  Her employer had looked at her thoughtfully and had said, "The young are always certain that infidels can not be changed and must die for their lack of faith. And I am only certain Allah's justice will be shown to us all. May your intended be shown Allah's favor and may you raise many children in the faith." He'd dismissed her then and had gone back to his paperwork, his wife pulling out her tablet to resume work as well.
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-24-17/1013:04>
When Marco's suppressive fire began Gabriel's bodyguards moved to cover him. It sealed the fate of the priest who was Yelena's target as the shot intended for his chest went cleanly through his eye. His head snapped back and he crumpled in seeming slow motion.

[spoiler]defending against Yelena's shot (http://orokos.com/roll/519168): 7d6t5 0[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: farothel on <05-24-17/1141:05>
Just before the firing, Na'Nele fired up her boost and checked again if her wireless smartgun system was up and running.  And as soon as the firing started, she took aim and fired a flashbang grenade in the middle of the group, aiming as close as possible to the priest they needed.  While she switched to burst fire on her rifle and checked for targets, the grenade landed exactly where she wanted it to and it went off.

[spoiler]
activate agility boost adept power:
magic 6 + agility boost 2 =8 (http://orokos.com/roll/519190): 8d6t5 6
What a roll.  Too bad I can only boost by 4, giving me agility 10 for the duration.   It does last for 12 rounds though, that's already nice to know and should be enough.

drain = level (2 that is)
body 7 + will 4 =11 (http://orokos.com/roll/519191): 11d6t5 2
A lot less, but enough so I don't have any drain

fire grenade:  I need a treshold 3 roll to land on target
agility 10 + heavy weapons 1 + smartgun 1 =12 (http://orokos.com/roll/519192): 12d6t5 5
the grenade launcher has accuracy 6 with the smartgun system, so that's 5 hits and it lands exactly where I want it, right next to the priest we need.
A flashbang grenade does 10S damage, AP -4 and damage radius 10m.
[/spoiler]
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-24-17/1244:33>
Inside the tower the agent worked to fix the problems and contacted the local airport to see if it could divert the flight to it's tower. But when the shooting started it became obvious that what had looked like a systems failure was in reality an attack and he contacted GOD for assistance with the cyberattack that had taken down his systems. In the meantime he sent commands to set the security system to high alert and search for threats.


Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: gilga on <05-24-17/1349:27>
Marco watched with horror as the bullet passed through Gabriel's eye... Did we just kill him? His heart skipped a bit and peering into the astral was too risky. No doubt that his spirit will soon be fighting their spirits - or will it? Perhaps the bodyguards are not mages?

Darn it... I make plans and the Lord laughs. He thought and kept that composure - none of it matters now, we need to get out alive - and perhaps things are not as bad as they seem.  Oh Lord, I am so sorry... He thinks. But none of this reaches his surface, the man keeps a frozen face behind the ballistic mask and continues suppressing the remaining guards.

initiative (http://orokos.com/roll/519247): 10+1d6 16
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: Mercy Merchant on <05-25-17/0006:07>
Yelena is focusing on Gabriel in case she needs to shoot at him again when she sees him bend over into the shot and take the gel round in the head instead of the chest.  She uses a split second to wonder at the incredible irony of that as she shifts to one of the bodyguards.  Since all four had been focused on the fire from the car, it is pretty much certain that none of the guards was able to even know where her shot had come from, giving her time to take aim at her new target.  She takes aim and waits to see if the man is affected by the grenade or the firing going on around him.

"Lena give Yelena status of men and watch for other security."
Title: Re: Bye, Bye Blackbird IC
Post by: ismilealot on <05-27-17/1924:07>
The scene is chaos as Gabriel falls and his bodyguards rush to try and respond to the threat suddenly around them.