Shadowrun

Shadowrun Play => Play-by-Post => Topic started by: Scarecrow71 on <07-26-13/1920:05>

Title: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <07-26-13/1920:05>
This will be the OOC thread for this 5E experiment/campaign that I will be running here.  I have looked over all of the characters submitted in the recruitment thread - which is located right here (http://forums.shadowruntabletop.com/index.php?topic=11763.0) - and I have decided upon the following characters to be the beginning group of victims guinea pigs lab rats test subjects runners:

Snake, Human Street Samurai (All4BigGuns)
Corvus, Human B&E Adept (Panzergeist)
Mr. Wilde, Troll Magician (TCArcknight)
Zen, Elf Decker/Face (dragonfire)
Candid Green, Human Magician/Decker (Serafina)

If you take a look closely, you'll see that 3 primary roles are doubled up - 2 Street Sams, 2 Magicians, 2 Decker.  Throw in a Face and an Adept, with a good mix of metahumanity (although Humans rule the roost, so to speak), and you've got our initial group.  But why did I do this?  Why take characters that end up doubling each other up?  Simple - redundancy in SR is a good thing.

The simple fact is that in most groups, there is one of each type.  And when that person goes down, that skillset is lost.  By doubling up - and I couldn't have done that without Serafina going the dual-role route - this is slightly alleviated.  This group shouldn't face a situation that they cannot eventually overcome, even if one person is lost to gunfire or becoming dragon food.  Simple.

For those who didn't make it, all I can say is that I'm sorry.  I got a lot of interest in this, and I wish I could take you all.  I unfortunately cannot.  But should something happen, I may call on one of the characters you created to step up.  So stay tuned.

For those who did make it, congratulations!  You may either post your full character here, or just a small bio with the important highlights.  I've linked the Recruitment thread above, so it's not necessary to repost the whole character.  But I'll leave that up to you.

As we get moving, I'll post up house rules and other rule adjustments that are necessary for the sake of the game.  Otherwise, use this thread as you need to for OOC stuff.  I'll get the first post for the game up this weekend.

Good luck, and welcome to the game, chummers!
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <07-26-13/1920:24>
Reserved for Rule Adjustments/House Rules.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <07-27-13/0241:16>
I'm psyched.  Incidentally, we have 2 faces as well. You seem to have missed that my character is also a face- I actually planned on being the team face, but now it could go either way.  Of course we could go by who has the highest negotiation dice pool, but where's the fun of metagaming when you can roleplay?   :D
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-27-13/1312:02>
Yay, i'm in!
I'll repost my character, including her shadow persona (=things anyone can find out with a bit of digging).

Oh, and a big hooray for doubling on roles. It doesn't just give redundancy, but also means that a specialized situation will only involve one player - this way you can involve more players in a social/matrix/magic-only situation.



Name: Jennifer O'Brien
Alias: AGENT CANDID
Nationality: British
Age: 31

Publicly available Information: Jennifer O'Brien is a british citizen currently residing in Seattle. Employee of the Spellweaver Consortium until 13 months ago. Licensed for Class-B Magical Activity* and certificated for CYBER GREY Matrix Technology. Current occupation: unknown. Residency Information: Available

ShadowGrid Profile: Jennifer was working as an Executive Field Secretary for the Spellweaver Consortium under the codename CANDID GREEN. According to her, she severed ties because of a botched job. However, there are various reports that she still maintains ties to her former boss [FILES ATTACHED], listed in corporate files as Detached Special Secretary James Jesus Angleton. No further information about her corporate ties.

She has completed two runs as a freelancer - one investigation of unusual activity in a psychiatric hospital, and a hunt for escaped Basilisks in the Barrens. Both runs were completed without known incident.

Hidden Information, available by hacking the Spellweaver Consortiums files: Jeniffer O'Brien (codename AGENT CANDID, Secretary to DSS Angleton (codename TEAPOT). Current Line Manager: None.
Field-certificated Combat Epistiologist. CASE NIGHTMARE GREEN, GOD GAME RAINBOW, TEAPOT, SHADOW BUNNIES, METAGAME YELLOW, SNOWFIRE.
Further information is hardcopy only. Required forms: PC-66, A6-0245.

Game Information:
[spoiler]
Female Human
Attributes: Body 2, Agility 2, Reaction 2, Strength 1, Willpower 5, Logic 6 (7), Intuition 3, Charisma 2, Magic 5, Edge 3, Essence 5.6

Positive Qualities: Analytical Mind, Mentor Spirit (Firebringer), Quick Healer
Negative Qualities: National SIN, Moderate Pollen Allergy

Skill Groups: Conjuring 2, Electronics 2
Active Skills: Pistols 2, Sneaking 1 (Urban), Perception 2,
Technical Skills: Cybercombat 5, Hacking 5
Social Skills: Etiquette 2
Magical Skills: Alchemy 6 (Trigger), Assensing 4, Counterspelling 3, Ritual Spellcasting 5, Spellcasting 1
Languages: English N, High Enochian 3, German 3
Knowledge Skills: Mathematics 5 (Geometry), Literature 2 (Occult Tomes), Matrix Games 2, Hacker Underground 3

Spells: Clairvoyance, Detect Individual, Cure Disease, Heal
Rituals: Circle of Healing, Circle of Protection, Remote Sensing
Preparations: Control Thoughts, Improved Invisibility, Physical Mask, Flamethrower

Augmentations: Cerebral Booster 1 (31.5k), Mnemonic Enhancer 1 (9k), Datajack (1k)
Matrix Gear: Novatech Navigator (205,750), Browse, Edit, Encryption, Signal Scrub, Toolbox, Virtual Machine, Baby Monitor, Biofeedback Filter (980), Renraku Sensei Commlink (1k)
Sensory Gear: Googles 6 w. Low-Light Vision, Image Link, Vision Enhancement 3, Flare Compensation, Vision Magnification (2,825), Camera 2 w. Thermographic Vision& Vision Magnification (950), Earbuds 3 w. Audio Enhancement 2, Select Sound Filter 1 (1,350)
Armor&Clothing: Synth-Leather Feedback Clothing (700), Armor Jacket w. Nonconductivity 6, Insulation 3, Fire Resistance 3 (4k)
Weapons:  Defiance EX-Shocker w. Laser Sight, 20 Taser Darts (475), Ares Viper Slivergun w. Laser Sight&Gas Vent 3 (1k), 3x 30er Flechete Clip (210)
2 months Low Lifestyle (4k), Fake SIN 2 (5k)
Magical Gear: Magical Lodge 6 (3k), 100 dram of Reagents 2k)

Nuyen: 1850
Unspent Karma: 0

Contacts: James Jesus Angleton. Bureaucrat for the Spellweaver Consortium (Connection 5, Loyalty 3)
[/spoiler]

Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-27-13/1828:28>
Name: Jack Valance
Alias: Snake
Race: Caucasian Human
Sex: Male
Nationality: CAS
Lifestyle:
Middle - 7 months paid
Low - 5 months paid
-Special Work Area
-Extra Secure
-Armorer Facility

Attributes
BodyAgilityReactionStrength
3563
WillpowerLogicIntuitionCharisma
3453
EdgeEssenceInitiative
56.011 + 1d6



Positive Qualities
Aptitude(Longarms) (14 Karma)

Negative Qualities
Sensitive System (-12 Karma)
Sinner [National – CAS] (-5 Karma)
Allergy [Moderate – Pineapple] (-10 Karma) (Only Receiving 8)

Active Skills
Athletics Skill Group-----5
PistolsSemi-Automatics6
LongarmsSniper Rifles7
Blades-----4
Sneaking-----4
Perception-----4
Etiquette-----2
Armorer-----5
First Aid-----2
Pilot Ground CraftWheeled3

Knowledge Skills
Military4
Business3
Police Procedures2
History2
Music2
Firearm Design3
Sprawl Life3
Language Skills
EnglishN

Ranged WeaponAccuracyDamageAPModeAmmo
Colt Government 206667P-1SA14(c)
Ruger Super Warhawk59P-2SS6(cy)
Remington 950712P-4SS5(m)
Defiance T-250410P-1SS/SA5(m)

Melee WeaponAccuracyReachDamageAP
Survival Knife5--5P-1

ArmorRatingModifications
Lined Coat9Nonconductivity Rating 4, Chemical Protection Rating 4
Actioneer Business Clothes8------

Gear
5 Spare Govt. Clips (Caseless Regular)
5 Spare Govt. Clips (Caseless APDS)
5 Spare Govt. Clips (Caseless Stick-n-Shock)
60 Regular Warhawk Ammo
30 APDS Warhawk Ammo
30 Regular Remington Ammo
30 APDS Remington Ammo
40 Regular Defiance Ammo
Outfit of Nice Clothing
Leather Jacket[Chemical Protection Rating 4]
Erika Elite Comm-link
AR Gloves
Subvocal Microphone
Contact Lenses Rating 3
-Image Link
-Flare Compensation
Flashlight
Medkit Rating 6
Survival Kit
Fake SIN Rating 4 [John Greer]
-Fake License Rating 4 [Weapons Permit]
-Fake License Rating 4 [Driver's License]
-Fake License Rating 4 [Vehicle Registration]

Vehicles
Toyota Gopher
HandlingAccelSpeedPilotBodyArmorSensorSeats
5/5241141226
Contacts
ContactConnLoy
Star – Human Fixer43
Alexa Deran – Human Detective34
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <07-27-13/2243:23>
I agree with that GM in the other thread that it makes mor sense for the player not to know each others' exact stats, so I'll stick with the bio.

“Corvus,” Human Male Adept
Real Name:   Unknown (to you)
Street Name: James “Corvus” Clapton

Age: 23  Height: 5’11  Weight: 175 lbs  Eyes: Blue  Hair: Black  Ethnicity: Caucasian

Fake SIN #1: Keith Springer, Freelance Journalist- UCAS National SIN
Fake SIN #2: Jim Stanley, Unemployed Laborer- UCAS National SIN

Corvus Bio

Alex Jensen was born SINless to a decent but unremarkable mother, and a deadbeat father who he rarely saw.  His childhood wasn’t that terrible by SINless standards; he lived in a rough neighborhood and a broken home, and got into a lot of fights, but he got some education from various charitable organizations and free matrix sources, and was never in danger of starving.

Alex’s mother died when he was twelve years old.  He arranged a funeral for her just in time to get evicted from their apartment, and so began living as a squatter.  There he lived off of a combination of charity and theft, barely scraping by, with little contact with and no help from his father.  He was on the verge of desperation when he awakened.  Suddenly, stealing just seemed easier, and Alex was able to feed himself again. Eventually he met a physical adept named Simon, who brought him under his tutelage. 

Simon worked as a burglar, and was one of the best in Seattle.  He taught Alex the trade of theft, as well as helping him to harness his magical power and channel it into adept powers.  Although Alex largely learned Simon’s physically-focused adept powers and most of his skills, he had an aptitude for con artistry and other social skills that Simon didn’t have.  Together, the two of them made an amazing team.  Simon also stuck to a moral code: he avoided violence wherever possible, wouldn’t harm innocent bystanders, and his thefts were always targeted at people who could avoid the loss, whose lives wouldn’t be ruined by them.  He did his best to impress these principles on Alex. 

During this time, Alex’s father was sent to prison for 5-10 years for manslaughter, as a result of a fight he and some friends got into. Rather than visit him in prison, Alex simply went to his home and looted his belongings, as revenge for years of shitty parenting.  It was shortly after this that Raven appeared to Alex, and took the boy under his wing.  Alex began calling himself Corvus shortly thereafter. 

It came as a shock when Simon was gunned down by a gang of thieves in a botched mugging.  Bereaved, Corvus arranged a funeral and cremation for Simon.  However, at Raven’s urging, he also kept most of Simon’s belongings rather than passing them on to his next of kin. After that, Corvus embarked on a very successful solo career as a con artist and burglar, and has been able to provide quite well for himself.  His greatest success came when he palmed a key to a talismonger’s shop, then robbed the store later that night.  He found a rare and valuable weapon focus in the form of a monofilament whip.  Monowhips being highly illegal, the talismonger was unable to report this theft because monowhips.  Corvus had never seen a monowhip before, but became obsessed with it, and began practicing with it obsessively while laying low after the burglary, which he (wrongly) assumed would bring a lot of heat down on his head.

Over the course of his career, Corvus has been through several fake SIN’s.  Two years ago he hit in the idea of pretending to be a journalist and getting a fake press pass so he could gather information under a legitimate cover.  He even began writing a few freelance pieces for various local news services under the name Keith Springer in order to bolster the identity, but found that journalism was actually kind of fun, especially when he was assigned to write about a local rock concert.  He now makes a minor side income writing freelance articles, most often for the Examiner. 

Corvus loves rock music, and sings karaoke when he really wants to unwind.  He also is a snappy dresser (when dressing to look good rather than fit in), and sometimes uses his knowledge of fashion to aid him in his work.  He is prone to bouts of sickness, and allergic to most antibiotics, so he is a bit paranoid about filth and disease.

Corvus is a very likable person, but people who get to know him often come to question his reliability.  Although an able combatant, Corvus has never killed anyone.  He shot someone once, but not seriously, and on another occasion he cut a ganger’s hand off with his monowhip, but then retreated and allowed the man to be treated by his friends.  Corvus lacks a clear moral code, but instead has feelings of ambivalence regarding the morality of some of hi actions.  He sometimes feels torn between violence and non-violence, honesty and manipulativeness, and between the advice of his mentor spirit and the ethics of society at large.

After a bad couple of months in which he lost some of his B&E gear, had to move to a new apartment to escape some heat, and burned through much of his savings, Corvus has decided to broaden his horizons and try out shadowrunning. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <07-28-13/0001:45>
Almost forgot starting nuyen.  3d6x60
Roll: 2,4,2  8x60 = 480 nuyen on top of the handful I saved at chargen.

Perception roll while waiting outside the healthcare place: 4 hits. I'm going to assume this means I spot Snake since he didn't say he was hiding or make a stealth roll.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-28-13/0239:54>
I didn't state a Sneaking roll, no, but I wasn't asked for a roll by the GM, and I'm used to not rolling unless the GM calls for one.

As to the other thing, I don't think it makes sense necessarily for the other players to not know the stats of one's character. The other characters, sure.

For the GM: That does bring up a point. How do you want to do rolls? Do we just go with Honor System (far and away my personal preference), or do we have to use the rolling site?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <07-28-13/0344:54>
Yeah, I kinda just figured it didn't matter at this point.  Really just trying to roleplay at this point. Anyway, if you want to see my character sheet, it's on the recruiting thread.  I personally would rather avoid the temptation to metagame; I think not looking at everyone's sheet will help me roleplay better. 

Also what rolling site are you talking about?  I looked for one that would give me a link I could share, didn't see any but I think I've seen people mention one before. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-28-13/0356:56>
Yeah, I kinda just figured it didn't matter at this point.  Really just trying to roleplay at this point. Anyway, if you want to see my character sheet, it's on the recruiting thread.  I personally would rather avoid the temptation to metagame; I think not looking at everyone's sheet will help me roleplay better. 

Also what rolling site are you talking about?  I looked for one that would give me a link I could share, didn't see any but I think I've seen people mention one before.

There are a lot of people on the forums who like that Invisible Castle site. I've gotten to where I can deal with it, but it does still rub me the wrong way (like I said, personal preference is honor system).
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <07-28-13/0832:50>
To dice rolling:  I prefer the honor system.  We're all adults, and we should all be trustworthy in some fashion.  It's the method I prefer.

Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <07-29-13/1436:54>
Heyo everyone. Here's my roll for my matrix searches on Hampton Holistic Healthcare. Once I receive the info on it,  I'll post a follow-up to how Zen prepares for the meet.

General information search (1 threshold - 1 minute)
matrix search roll: 2 hits (takes 30 seconds to search)

General information search (1 threshold - 1 minute)
matrix search roll: 1 hits (takes 1 minute to search)

General information search (1 threshold - 1 minute)
matrix search roll: 4 hits (takes 20 seconds to search)

Limited interest/not publicized search (3 threshold - 30 minutes):
matrix search roll: 3 hits. (takes 30 minutes to search)

Limited interest/not publicized search (3 threshold - 30 minutes):
matrix search roll: 0 hits (search fails, takes 30 minutes)

Limited interest/not publicized search (3 threshold - 30 minutes):
matrix search roll: 5 hits (takes 15 minutes)

1 hour 17 minutes total for searches.
3 pieces of general information
2 pieces of limited interest/not publicized information

Also, starting nuyen roll: 14
Starting nuyen total: 1760
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <07-29-13/1927:15>
I sent PMs to TCArknight and Serafina this morning reminding them the game had started and that we were waiting on the both of them.  I'll give them a day or so to respond, but not much more than that.
 
I apologize that the game is getting off to a slow start.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-30-13/0232:49>
Gah, sorry  :( I'm currently moving to a new apartment  and genuinely didn't notice the IC-thread.
The whole affair shouldn't last much longer though so don't worry about my posting-span otherwise.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-30-13/0351:22>
Posted.

Two Public and one non-Public matrix searches, 5 dice each (Computer 2, Intuition 3, -2 public grid, +2 HotVR):
3 hits, 1 hit, 1 hit.

Magic Preparations:

Improved Invisibility x3. Lynchpin is a dead animals paw with a bunch of wires.
Force 3, 15 dice (Magic 5, Alchemy 6, Specialization 2, Mentor Spirit 2) vs (Force 3). 5(0), 5(0), 7(2) successes, limit 3.
Drain is (Force -1, +2 for Command Trigger)=4, Resistance (Logic 7 + Willpower 5)=12. 5, 3, 4 successes = 1 box stun damage.
That gives me three Potency 3 Force 3 preparations.

Flamethrower x4. Lynchpin is a small infrared camera.
Force 5, 15 dice. 5(3), 6(1), 4(1), 3(1) successes, limit 5
Drain is (Force-3, +2 Command Trigger)=4. Resistance: 5, 5, 2, 7= 2 boxes stun damage.
That gives me one Potency 5, one Potency 3 and two Potency 2 preparations, all Force 5.

Control Thoughts x3. Lynchpin is a oversized dice she can fit into her fist.
Force 3, 15 dice. 6(1), 5(1), 7(0) successes, limit 3.
Drain is (Force -1, +2 for Command Trigger)=4. Resistance 7, 7, 3= 1 box of stun damage.
That gives me three Potency 3 Force 3 preparations.

Total drain taken is four boxes of stun damage. An hour of rest while in transit (Body 2 + Willpower 5 + Fast Healing 2)=9 dice heals three of them, leaving me with 1 box of stun damage.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <07-30-13/0950:51>
GM post is coming, but I have to ask:  Serafina, what are all these rolls for?  I don't see anything in your IC post that justifies them?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-30-13/1057:41>
Uh, guess that got lost then. Added two lines to state rather than imply that she's doing actual work. Sorry about that.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <07-30-13/1131:30>
Yeah, and this should be stated to everyone:

If you are doing something, please be specific about it.  I hate ambiguity because it always leads to someone getting screwed.


EDIT:  I don't see anything in your post about the magic preparations either?  At this point, I'm not going to hold the game up waiting on you to see this and change your IC post.  Your magic preparations are NOT in effect as you failed to provide an IC post that included you doing them.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <07-30-13/1142:46>
Okay, I have really overlooked the alchemy rules, but you're making alchemy look a bit cooler than I thought.  I always assumed the lynchpin got consumed when the spell was used, and that you couldn't use an item for more than one preparation.  Seems I was wrong- the magic wand motif is actually looking pretty cool now.  I might have to revisit my alchemist/faceman character concept 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <07-30-13/1229:47>
Just some fyi for Scarecrow71. I'm running my Renraku Tsurugi silently. My array is currently:
Firewall 6(7)
Sleaze 5(6)
Data Processing 5(6)
Attack 3.

I have encryption, toolbox, and stealth running on it. My commlink is running regularly.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-30-13/1230:19>
What's with all the rolls being tossed out there without the GM calling for a roll?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <07-30-13/1235:21>
Mine were just to see if I could find out anything interesting/useful on the meeting place prior to leaving. Figured it made sense from the game play perspective for a decker.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-30-13/1239:41>
On another note, I'm wondering if that dead animal paw that Serafina's character has is in plain sight.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <07-30-13/1304:47>
I don't mind some rolls, but try to keep them to a minimum unless asked for.

As far as the animal paw, I stated that the magical preparations were not done as Serafina's post did not explicitly state they were done.  Stating that she's looking at the paw and preparing it are 2 different things.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-30-13/1308:59>
All right. Just checking for any outwardly visible signs that our Awakened characters are such, without that, there wouldn't be anything of enough relevance to his actions as yet put another post up.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-30-13/1339:07>
Okay, i hate arguing already, and i'll promise i'll be more clear next time.
But this
Quote
After checking that the circuitry of her Hand of Glory - actually just the paw of some roadkill, modern electronics make human ingredients obsolete - and checking the code on her Infrared-camera (decayed as usual) and the containment of a aluminum-silver dodecahedron, Jennifer grabs a taser and a raincoat and waits for the next bus.
is where i mention her doing the preparations.

To explain my intent there:
Magic in Shadowrun isn't tied to specific invocations, gestures etc. - those are pretty much based off the users own idea how magic works. That's why we have all those different magical traditions.
Jennifers magic is based around the idea that doing the right kind of calculation will allow you to access other dimensions. And electronics are very good at doing calculations, so she makes heavy use of them.
So to her, all she's doing is checking circuitry she's already prepared - for some reason that she can't yet fully explain off (in-character), the circuitry doesn't work properly if she doesn't do that.

Out-of-character, that's because the lynchpin doesn't matter as long as it's non-living (and not an active focus or such). You could take a pebble and smear some finger paint on it and it would work just as well as Jennifers carefully crafted nanocircuitry. Nor does the Lynchpin get destroyed, and it works just as well on artificial items than on natural ones because you're just anchoring a spell to it, instead of actually enchanting the object.

Hence, "checking on" means "prepare Alchemical Preparation" - again, i am sorry for not making this more clear in the IC-post.
I promise i will make it more clear when she is preparing Alchemical preparations. For now, i'd like to ask you to let her keep them, because they represent most of her active abilities.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-30-13/1341:20>
On another note, I'm wondering if that dead animal paw that Serafina's character has is in plain sight.
She's usually wearing it on a long chain. It can be tucked into her clothes, but mostly it just looks like some sort of religious talisman (which of course means it can be magical, this being the Sixth World and all). Oh, and obviously its properly preserved, she's not carrying around a rotten hunk of flesh.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <07-30-13/1432:10>
And this is why I hate ambiguity.  To your character, checking is equal to preparing.  To me, checking <> preparing.

I will allow the preparations this time because we are all getting used to one another, and our styles of gaming.  In the future, this is a no-exceptions policy.  If you are doing something, you must state it.  If you fail to state it, it doesn't happen.  Checking <> preparing, so you must from this point on state what it is you are doing.  I don't want to guess, ok?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-30-13/1434:59>
Now I just need to know if the Adept and Troll have any thing visible that points to their Awakened status. Sometimes prejudice can be a beeyatch.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-30-13/1511:08>
Thanks.  :)
 I didn't properly realize how hard it was to understand my meaning. I'll make sure in the future to be more clear.

Oh, also, a note:
While the rules are ambiguous (it doesnt state whether a prepared lynchpin has an aura, nor that you can't use the same lynchpin to hold multiple spells), i'm pretty sure the design intent is that you can't.
The reason for that is pretty simple - otherwise, you could layer a few dozen Touch-triggered Preparations in a single lynchpin.

However, because it looks better, i'm planning to use with multi-Preparation Lynchpins for Command-Triggers only. It honestly has no advantage i can see - as stated, anything non-living can be a Lynchpin, and they can be very small (about bullet-sized). So having one item instead of multiple ones doesn't make it easier to hide or carry, nor give any mechanical advantage for command-triggers at least.
Again, the only reason i want to do that is because it's cooler. If it helps, her preparations will have individual parts - the Hand of Glory has digits with individual circuitry that burns out, the camera has storage chips that do the same and the Dodecahedron...well okay, no specific idea yet but something like that.

Hope you're okay with that since it's really only because its cooler.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-30-13/1603:16>
Now I just need to know if the Adept and Troll have any thing visible that points to their Awakened status. Sometimes prejudice can be a beeyatch.
"Perceiving Magic" (p. 280) doesn't list Adept powers, and no Adept power lists any sort of visibile manifestation. So while its possible to notice, say, the casting of a manabolt, Adept powers can not be perceived in  such a way.

Some of their feats can be deduced to be supernatural - it's pretty obvious if you're running along a wall that something is magical there,but being faster/stronger/tougher than a normal (meta)human can also be seen as such: "Whoa, this guy is quick, he might be an Adept!". However, that's pretty hard to distinguish from Augmentations giving you the same abilities.

However, Augmentations are actually a way to suspect someone is Awakened. Plenty of people have at least some minor cyberware, especially in the shadows. If you don't - well it's not a sure thing, but maybe you're awakened?


But long story short - being magically awakened doesn't alter you in any way that can be seen. If you aren't casting spells, wearing obvious foki etc., no one knows that you're capable of magic - which is actually a major reason for people who are afraid of mages and adepts.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <07-30-13/1618:41>
While the rules are ambiguous (it doesnt state whether a prepared lynchpin has an aura, nor that you can't use the same lynchpin to hold multiple spells)

Was re-reading the magic section and saw this.

pg. 304 of the core book, second paragraph under Alchemy.
Quote
Preparations carry an aura with the astral signature of its creator, which is visible in astral space.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <07-30-13/1815:42>
Now I just need to know if the Adept and Troll have any thing visible that points to their Awakened status. Sometimes prejudice can be a beeyatch.

Nope, nothing about me says "awakened."  And the lack of visible cyberware doesn't mean much; a lot of sammies don't have visible ware. 

Edit: Just looked over the team roster.  Yep, prejudice can be a real motherfucker.  :D

Another edit:  Meant to say "Nothing about me," not "Thinking about me."  Lazy, my bad.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-30-13/2029:22>
Now I just need to know if the Adept and Troll have any thing visible that points to their Awakened status. Sometimes prejudice can be a beeyatch.
"Perceiving Magic" (p. 280) doesn't list Adept powers, and no Adept power lists any sort of visibile manifestation. So while its possible to notice, say, the casting of a manabolt, Adept powers can not be perceived in  such a way.

Some of their feats can be deduced to be supernatural - it's pretty obvious if you're running along a wall that something is magical there,but being faster/stronger/tougher than a normal (meta)human can also be seen as such: "Whoa, this guy is quick, he might be an Adept!". However, that's pretty hard to distinguish from Augmentations giving you the same abilities.

However, Augmentations are actually a way to suspect someone is Awakened. Plenty of people have at least some minor cyberware, especially in the shadows. If you don't - well it's not a sure thing, but maybe you're awakened?


But long story short - being magically awakened doesn't alter you in any way that can be seen. If you aren't casting spells, wearing obvious foki etc., no one knows that you're capable of magic - which is actually a major reason for people who are afraid of mages and adepts.

That animal paw is enough for my character to think such of yours. Not everything is going to go by "will a perception test show this person as Awakened?", often it will more be "does this person have anything rather strange on them that the masses could think is magical".
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <07-30-13/2045:11>
The animal paw does kinda imply some magic or mysticism of some sort. 

Also, the troll and I will undoubtedly be telling you about ourselves before long.  Prepare to roleplay a really uncomfortable street sam.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <07-30-13/2057:58>
The animal paw does kinda imply some magic or mysticism of some sort. 

Also, the troll and I will undoubtedly be telling you about ourselves before long.  Prepare to roleplay a really uncomfortable street sam.

Luckily it's only the minimal "kind of dislikes" level of prejudice.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: TCArknight on <07-31-13/0818:15>
RIght now, nope. :) Mr. Hyde just looks like a finely dressed troll. Although he almost looks like a runt for a troll He'd be on the low side of a physical build for Trolls (minimum Bod and Str, and his height and weight are on the lower end too...)
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <07-31-13/1212:22>
Here's my judge intentions roll for Zen observing Hampton when he tells his story:
Composure roll (11): 6 hits.

Here's my  negotiation roll for asking for more creds/resources:
Negotiation (15): 5 hits
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <07-31-13/1557:18>
Posted.
I hope it's obvious that i am astraly assensing Mr. Hampton and the room we are in.

Assensing roll for Mr. Hampton: (Intuition 3 + Assensing 4): 3 successes
Assensing roll for the room (if there are any magical auras or background count to see): 1 success
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: TCArknight on <08-01-13/0849:31>
Checking the room and surrounding area: Intuition 3 + Assensing 4: 2 hits
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-01-13/1933:35>
I try to give everyone a chance to post, and panzer hasn't yet.  Either way, I'll post tonight.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-01-13/1954:56>
Oh sorry, I just don't have anything to say yet.  I've been watching. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-01-13/2012:58>
Only reason Snake spoke up was that no one else was...
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-01-13/2118:12>
Yeah I think we were just letting the team face handle this part. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-01-13/2121:14>
Yeah I think we were just letting the team face handle this part.

Unfortunately, the one whose character had Face listed in the list of characters accepted for himself without negotiating...
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-02-13/1113:47>
With Zen, the story hits home because his family was massacred by a hit squad. This would cause him to speak up, but once we've all introduced ourselves to each other, he'll take up a decker role primarily, with a face back-up.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-03-13/1435:51>
Whew. Move is done, all my stuff is at my new place and unpacked. From now on i'll be able to pay proper attention to the game. Sorry for any delays.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-03-13/1658:09>
No worries, Serafina.  Real life always takes precedence.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-03-13/2247:53>
BigGuns- he actually told us which McHughs.  The one on 2nd and Seneca.  Unless there are two McHugh's on the same corner, which is totally possible in this corporate future.  I swear I once saw two Starbucks across the street from each other. 

I'm about ready to move past this meeting and into the run prep.  It's the intro mission; I know there's not that much more to be said here.  Any objections? 

Also, what's McHugh's?  I'm assuming it's a chain, but are we talking more McDonald's or Olive Garden?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-03-13/2254:22>
McHugh's is the 5E version of Stuffer Shack.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-03-13/2344:45>
McHugh's is a convenience store or a restaurant?  Because I think Stuffer Shack is supposed to be an oversized convenience store. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-04-13/0306:02>
McHugh's is the 5E version of Stuffer Shack.

I think it's supposed to be like McDonalds. Hence the name change to "Fast Food Fight" instead of just "Food Fight".
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-04-13/0527:15>
Well, put info about my char into the OOC-thread - edited my post on page one so its easier to find. And yes, all those codewords may matter, its a bunch of potential plot-hooks  ;)
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-04-13/1233:56>
I'm about ready to move past this meeting and into the run prep.  It's the intro mission; I know there's not that much more to be said here.  Any objections?
I'm all for this.  If everyone else is ok, we can push forward to run prep.  Just let me know where you guys are headed and I'll move the game forward!
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-04-13/1356:27>
Sounds good by me, Jennifer doesn't really have much to contribute at this point.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-04-13/1427:03>
Yeah, I'm ready to start reconning the place and selecting gear.  My vote would be that we all introduce ourselves, do some quick recon, and then move on to McHugh's.  It's the intro mission, I think we all know it's going to boil down to a fairly simple firefight. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-05-13/1036:19>
Introductions and recon sound fine to me. Anyone in particular want to kick it off?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-05-13/1047:27>
Just need to know where you are headed and I can push this to that location.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-05-13/1216:02>
Hop in a vehicle and drive somewhere secluded I'd say.  What vehicles do we have? 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-05-13/1218:56>
I gots me a Gopher.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-05-13/1231:46>
I got a Mirage.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-05-13/1556:26>
Well, guess the troll's going in the bed of the gopher.  We could also prep at this health care place, but we'd want some privacy.  Guess I'll ask about that. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-05-13/2250:49>
Matrix Perception roll (9): 4 hits.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-06-13/0053:42>
Disguise roll- 7 dice, 4 hits, 1 one.  Not trying to look like anyone in particular; just trying to look a bit different from me. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-06-13/1144:13>
Panzergeist
Yeah, you can pull off a decent enough disguise.  You don't need to indicate 1s rolled unless you roll at least half of your dice pool as 1s.


dragonfire
Little paranoid, are we?  You don't find any listening devices or bugs in the office by scanning the matrix.


Everyone
I'm going to let you guys just work out a plan about what to do, and when you ask questions I'll post as appropriate.  When you feel ready to leave, please post so and I'll push this forward to McHugh's.  Should you need a map of the joint, let me know and I'll see what I can do.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-06-13/1204:48>
Haha. Can never be too careful.

Sending my messages to Red (fixer) C5/L2 and Max (Mr. Johnson) C3/L1.

Asking both of them for any information they have on the Fratellis as well as any info on Hampton's daughter. About the Fratelli's, specifically any info on what type of muscle they might have and their recent activity in the area.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-06-13/1527:21>
The McHugh's should be registered as a business- it's part of a corporate chain after all, and I suspect it's a franchise, like most real-world fast food joints.  Should be able to legally look up the owner. 

Rolls: Business Management knowledge skill (5):  1 hit.  This roll is to know where I ned to look to look up the ownership of a small business.
Computer (4): No hits, no ones either. 

Also, we have a single credstick with 2k on it right?  Can we transfer money from a certified credstick to each of our accounts using our commlinks?  I'm a little fuzzy on how credsticks actually work now. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-06-13/1604:07>
Search roll on public grid (7): 3 hits.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-07-13/1057:49>
dragonfire
You send your messages off to your Fixer and your Johnson.  How long are you going to wait for them to respond?

Your search of the McHugh's turns up that this particular location has the registered owner of Larry Foote, and that he's owned this particular location for years.  He seems to be a member of the McHugh's family in rather good standing.


Panzergeist
As I'm sure you figured out by your roll, you get nothing and like it.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-07-13/1103:02>
I'll wait for one hour for information from my contacts before sending a follow-up message. If I have to send a follow-up message before they get back to me, I'll offer them 100 creds each if they can expedite my request.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-07-13/1330:24>
Computer (4)roll: 2 hits.   Looking up reviews of this McHugh's location- mainly looking for mentions of who works there, how many people, how good security is, etc.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-07-13/1353:56>
Searching for any information on what businesses/buildings are located around the McHugh's and the general orientation. Examples would include a "google style" map of the area or business directory.

Matrix Search (7)= 4 hits
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-07-13/1359:06>
Just for clarity:
I can use a ritual to remotely observe a place, or locate a person. I can also do astral projection, and equip you with Improved Invisibility/Physical Mask spells that you can trigger yourself if needed and last a few minutes each. Should be useful if anyone wants to do physical recon.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-07-13/1618:54>
Physical mask could maybe be useful for tricking him into giving away info, but we'd have to know a lot about the person we're impersonating- plus if it's an alchemical preparation, it wouldn't give us much time for an interview.  Clairvoyance probably won't be necessary to recon the restaurant, since it's open to the public after all, but a quick astral recon would be good.  Maybe give it a look on the astral right now, and another once we drive over just to see if anything big has changed?  Also an improved invisibility preparation or two would be really handy just in case this comes to a fight.

Also, the layout of the place might be publicly available without hacking- maybe there are photos and stuff.  If not, an astral recon will give us the layout, although it won't be able to make out much in the way of technological devices. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-07-13/1622:39>
What I intend on doing is going to watch the place from the exterior. Those of you who can go astral could go scout and find out anything that may be present inside.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-07-13/1713:38>
We'll do that too, but don't go over there without us- you're our ride!
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-08-13/1236:10>
Panzergeist
Your search for reviews turns up the stuff that would be found on Yelp, and it's not good.  Reviews indicate that the food is terrible and the place is filthy, with a lot of people stating they won't be returning.


dragonfire
You asked for it, so here it is:  a google maps view of the surrounding area.  McHugh's is located where the Starbuck's is shown.  In fact, the joint is inside the old Starbucks, with a few structural changes to accommodate a fast food restaurant.

Google Maps, McHugh's (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=seneca+and+2nd+street+seattle+washington&hl=en&ll=47.606507,-122.336344&spn=0.001212,0.00327&sll=38.502032,-117.02306&sspn=11.51466,26.784668&hnear=2nd+Ave+%26+Seneca+St,+Seattle,+King,+Washington+98101&t=m&z=19)

It should be noted that the Safeco Insurance company no longer owns the second story of the building the McHugh's is in (for those of you savvy enough to see street views).  The entire building that the McHugh's is in (where Starbucks is shown) is owned by Larry Foote and is McHugh's.  The Safeco building BEHIND the restaurant, on the other hand, still exists.

If you want a map of the interior, roll them dice-ages.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-08-13/1239:59>
Cool. Here's the roll for interior plans search.

Matrix Search (7): 2 hits.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-08-13/1607:00>
Interior map:

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/wesleystreet/superStufferShack.jpg

And this is going to bring up an interesting topic - mapping during combat.  How familiar is everyone here with Ditzie?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-08-13/1614:39>
Don't have any experience with that, but I'll check it out.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-08-13/1932:15>
Never heard of it.

Also, what are we looking at with that map?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-08-13/2327:41>
Just realized- I actually think that now you can send messages to anyone whose matrix avatar you can see, without needing them to actually give you a commcode.  Which would include all of us in the room with you, as long as our commlinks are turned on.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-08-13/2332:12>
I probably have the least tech. No smart gun systems in any of my guns and no implants. Pretty much just my comm-link and contact lenses.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-08-13/2352:48>
Brief breakdown of Ditzie, just so we're all on the same page.

Ditzie is a free, online program used for mapping.  This is especially useful for combat encounters, and it is my go-to for combat encounter mapping.  It's quick and easy to pick up and use, and it requires NO account or log-on to use existing icons and maps and such.

The general premise is that the GM - in this case, moi - will set up a map to use as the base.  In this case, I'd use McHugh's.  I will then add icons for all of the people in the place, and anything important such as drones or machines you'll need to know.  I will then add icons for each of you based on avatars and/or images you guys have for your characters.  Don't worry - there are mouse-overs for everything.

Now, how do you use it?  Simple.  On your turn, you simply click and hold over your icon and drag it to wherever you want to end up.  You then hit enter, and you'll see the URL of the map change.  Copy and paste that into whatever map thread I set up for the encounter.  There may be times when you move and instead of moving it duplicates your icon.  All you do is double-click on the one you want to remove, at which point a small pop up will display.  Click the red X in there, and voila!  The double is removed.

As an example, here is a link to a map I'm using for a game I'm running at one of those other sites:

Shraevyn's Tomb (http://beta.ditzie.com/267/5203c2eea9c6d)

Just remember to always click on the very last link in the map thread to avoid error messages and such.

It's pretty easy to use, and comes in REAL handy for combat to see where you are as opposed to everything else.  And if anyone has any questions, just let me know and I'll do my best to answer them.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-09-13/0002:34>
I'm not real keen on downloading a program for a PbP.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-09-13/0138:47>
Then ditzie is for you, my friend.  No download.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-09-13/1434:12>
Sounds good for me, i dislike downloads as well and not having to do any is great.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-12-13/1349:09>
Waiting on you guys.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-13-13/0242:06>
I think we're agreed on driving over there, just not what to do once we get there.  I'm all for an astral and matrix recon after we park down the street. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-13-13/0949:41>
Well, its pretty obvious.

In order to do our job, we need intel.
There are five ways to get intel:
#1: old-fashioned legwork
#2: physical reconnaissance
#3: matrix reconnaissance
#4: astral reconnaissance
#5: ritual magic

#1 has little chance of getting useful intel in this situation
#1 and #5 would take a couple of hours at least
#2 comes with a high risk:gain ratio - passive observation is possible, but won't yield much results (and we don't have a drigger with small drones).
#3 and #4 can only be done by specialists (but we have those).

Hence, astral and matrix reconnaissance are our best bets for now. If that fails, i suggest employing #1 and #5.
However, an argument can be made for employing #1 and #5 before #3&4 - it takes longer, but carries a much lower risk of exposure.


However, i would like to point out that "park nearby, then do astral&matrix recon" is - well its quite unnecessary, since both can be done from at least a few blocks away without much issue.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-13-13/1052:25>
@Jen: Matrix/Astral recon makes sense. I'm down once we find a safe place to try it from.

@ Scarecrow: About how much time has elapsed in game? Has it been an hour yet? If so, I'd like to send a message to my Fixer and Johnson contacts letting them know that I'll throw in some creds if the info is worthwhile and expedited.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-13-13/1114:08>
Well, Jennifer is actually not all that good at astral recon. Sure, Assensing 4, but no Astral Combat Ability to speak off and no mana-combat spells either, so other than looking she can't do much - so she'll propably join in on the matrix-action.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-13-13/1706:36>
I'm saying we park a couple blocks down the street, not obviously right across the street. 

Matrix recon- just go into the host, should be possible to do legitimately without breaking in.  Just see what's there.

Astral- just project in and see what's there.  I can't imagine a future McDonald's having astral security. 

Let's not overthink this.  Just take a quick look, then we make a plan and go in.  Also do we have any idea what Vic looks like?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-13-13/1710:10>
I've got a bike, so I'm thinking of parking at any local cafe/bar and hacking in that way. I'm still waiting on my contacts to see if they have any pics of Vic. If they don't have any info, I'll try for a matrix search.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-13-13/2339:09>
Sorry about the absence today guys.  I woke up very sick this morning, and I've had a monster headache all day.  I'm about to take a couple of night-time aspirins, which should put me in la-la land until tomorrow morning.

Assuming I feel better tomorrow, I'll answer all questions and push this forward to the restaurant.  Or at least close to it, so you guys can do your recon before storming the joint.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-13-13/2347:50>
I think our sneaky-type should do the scouting around the back while Serafina's character and Zen proceed to enter as though they were patrons and Wilde scouts the place astrally. I could provide back-up in case trouble breaks out.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-14-13/0132:34>
I can do that.  Do they have to physically go in to do matrix recon?  I thought they could be nearby and suffer a minor noise penalty at worst, but I don't quite get the new matrix rules.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-14-13/0133:51>
I can do that.  Do they have to physically go in to do matrix recon?  I thought they could be nearby and suffer a minor noise penalty at worst, but I don't quite get the new matrix rules.

I was just thinking that they'd be good for "eyes on the scene" for the main area while the stealther checked things out in back.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-14-13/0330:25>
I'd rather not expose Jennifer like that, given that she's very bad at actual physical activities - i don't think the risk is worth the gain, especially when she can do other things.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-14-13/0348:59>
Speaking of her, I could use one of those invisibility preparations before we go in. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-14-13/0827:16>
Sure, it only takes a few minutes to rig one up.

That being said - Scarecrow, what is your ruling on Contact-Preparations?
It's currently very unclear what exactly triggers them - the current rules only state "the next living being  to touch the preparation activates the spell". It should, at the very least, be possible to put the preparation in some sort of container, then take it out and activate it when one choses to - do you agree with that?

Also, to quote myself:
Quote
IMO, Contact-Preparations should be changed to something like this:
You must choose part of the Lynchpin to be the trigger of the Preparation. This can be as small as a single carved rune or as big as the whole surface area. The Preparation is triggered when a living being touches that part of the Lynchpin with it's body - clothes or other protective items do not prevent activation, but using tools would since they are not part of a living aura.
That gives the same basic effect as preparations in containers, while being more stylistic and at the same time clearer then the current rules. What is your opinion on that?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-14-13/1138:18>
Noise shouldn't be too bad downtown. Probably only about 1, maybe 2. I'm fine going in and doing on site recon while I try to hack any security they might have/armaments. I have my deck internal and only use my pulsar, so on the outside, I look like a boring wageslave, which shouldn't be that out of the ordinary for the area. I also can probably con anyone that thinks I look suspicious. I think what I'll do is try to get a mark or two on the host before going in to see what icons are visible and try to take care of anything nasty before entering, then if my overwatch score isn't high yet, I can just walk in and no one will be the wiser.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-14-13/1204:18>
Actually, the rules on preparations are pretty clear.  There are 3 types of triggers:

Command, which means the spell is triggered by you.  You have to be on the same plane AND have line of sight to the object.
Contact, which means the next living being to touch the object triggers the spell.
Timed, which means you set a specific amount of time and then the spell goes off, like a time bomb of sorts.

What you are asking for in your post is for the ability to set the trigger on an object, then carry that object around, and then set it off as you need to.  That's Command, it's covered pretty explicitly in the rules.  So, I have to decline your request on the Contact trigger as there is another trigger that already covers what you are asking for.

...

I've put together the map we'll use for this encounter, and I've done so using Ditzie.  To be clear:  You do NOT have to download anything!  This is all online, and it's completely free, and you don't even need an account to use it.  I have one because I've got several folders of art out there that we can use for mapping, but even that was free and costs me nothing.

To state it again:  You need to download NOTHING, you need NO account, and you need to pay ZERO.  Are we good with that?  Cool.

To use Ditzie:  I'm responsible for putting the map together and adding/removing tokens.  You are responsible for moving your token around on the map to wherever you need it to be.  For the purposes of our initial encounter, each square in the grid is 2.5 x 2.5.  You each take up 5x5, or a total of 4 squares (2 left-to-right, 2 up-to-down).

To move, all you need to do is left-click and hold, then drag your token to where you want to be.  Once you've done that, hit the enter key.  The URL in the window will change; copy and paste that into the Map thread (which I will be creating here shortly), and voila!  The map is updated.  Remember to use only the very last map link.  Not doing so may cause errors, overwritten movement, and/or getting messages that you need an account, and that is not correct.  It's just Ditzie's way of telling you that you have clicked the wrong link.

I've placed you all on the map outside the restaurant to start.  This is not important other than to show you that you are on the map.  You are free to move yourselves wherever you need to be; once anyone goes inside I'll update the map with patrons and such (I mean, you can't see them from outside, can you?).

If there are questions, just let me know.

...

Information from contacts:  Quiet night.  Too quiet.  It's almost like asking about the Fratelli's is taboo what with all the silence you're getting.  Or maybe it's just late and people are sleeping?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-14-13/1232:04>
Yeah, but if you put the Preparation into a box or bag, it does become possible to carry it around - after all, you aren't touching it. What "touch" constitutes is pretty unclear, i really hope they bring out a proper FAQ/Errata soon.

The current ruling (http://forums.shadowruntabletop.com/index.php?topic=11514.msg221857#msg221857) is that you CAN put a contact-preparation on a transportable object, but that damaging the lynchpin destroys the preparation - to rule out magic bullets, but since the post implies that throwing-knives are okay, carrying a preparation inside a container should be fine IMO.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-14-13/1241:28>
Deck configuration: Firewall 5, Sleaze 6 (7), Data Processing (5), Attack (3)
Programs: Virtual Machine, Sneak, Fork, Wrapper, Signal Scrub

I use wrapper to disguise my programs as music and video files.

I'm assuming that I can see the icon for the McHugh's Host, but just in case, here's a roll:
matrix perception (9) : 3 hits, 3 ones.

Here's the hack on the fly, going for 1 mark on the McHugh's host
Hack on the fly (16): 9 hits, 1 one. Limited to 7 hits due to sleaze.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-14-13/1604:43>
I think command has to be activated by you, so giving me something I can use has to be a touch trigger.  And putting it in a bag or bottle should work. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-15-13/0607:21>
@ Contact Preparations:
Page 281: "Choose the Target" states "Touching a Target through clothing, armor or a layer of paint is acceptable" in regards to targeting Touch-Spells. Assuming that the same rules apply to Contact Triggers is hardly a stretch, since the mechanics are named the same throughout the entire chapter.

Metaphysically, those things probably don't count since they are part of the targets aura (and thus can't be targeted separately by spells). Using insulation that isn't part of your aura should thus prevent activation, so giving out Contact-Preparations should be viable.


Now, flavor-question:
My current plan is to stick with the "Hand of Glory"-theme. Is it viable for me to shoot some pigeon or other small animal, cut off its feet and turn them into an Invisibility-Preparation, then drop them into a plastic bag and hand them out, to be activated when needed by taking the foot out of the bag?
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-15-13/1814:24>
I'm all about story over mechanics, and you've given precedent regarding the use of touch spells.  But I'm gonna do you one better here by pulling from my vast knowledge of 2E AD&D for this one.

I like the idea of a contact trigger that doesn't go off as soon as someone just inherently touches it when we're talking about group-friendly stuff like increased reflexes or invisibility.  So I'm gonna allow the use of command words on the contact thing.  As in, you not only have to touch it physically, but utter some useless word that actually triggers the spell contained in the object.  Sound fair?

As far as shooting some nameless pigeon for its feet...ew.  Can't you just walk into Chinatown and buy one of them chickens from some korean vendor?  :)

Of course I'll allow it because it's cool to the story.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-16-13/0253:31>
Yay  ;D

Well, in that case, i can go for the traditional representation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hand_of_glory) of a Hand of Glory - of course, with modern magical research and computing, it's no longer necessary to use the hand of a murderer, or to ignite the hand at all if you instead use proper electrical circuitry.

Preparing three Improved Invisibility Contact-Preparations, Force 4:
Alchemy 6 + Firebringer 2 + Magic 5 (limit force 4) vs. Force 4. Drain Resistance Logic 7 + Willpower 5=12. Drain=Force 4-1, +1 Contact Trigger
5 successes vs 2 successes = Potency 2, Force 4
4 successes vs 1 success = Potency 3, Force 4
3 successes vs 0 successes = Potency 3, Force 4
Drain Resistance: 5, 1, 4 Successes. Take 3 stun damage.



Oh, and since it's been pointed out that a Physical Mask spell that only lasts a few minutes, i'd like to swap my preparation for it out.
Either for an armor preparation.
Or make it a spell instead of a preparation, so that it can be maintained as long as needed.
I'd definitely have liked to have it as a preparation because it'd be stylish (use makeup to magically conceal your appearance), but within the shadowrun ruleset it's not really useful.
If swapping it is not okay, *shrugs* i can live with that.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-16-13/1538:55>
Awesome.  Which preparation did you hand me?  And should I assume the command word is written on it, or you told me the command word?

I'm headed out of town for the weekend, will do my scouting Sunday night most likely, unless I find some time and internet access tomorrow. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-16-13/1614:21>
You get a Potency 3, Force 4 Preparation.
Potency does three things:
The Preparation remains at full Potency for (Potency x2) hours, so in this case 6. After that, it loses 1 per hour.
It replaces Spellcasting to determine the effects of the spell, while Force replaces Magic (so this one has 7 dice).
And last but not least, the spell is maintained for (Potency) minutes, so this HoG burns for three minutes.

Since the command word is part of the spell-circuitry (just like a computer program needs command phrases), it is written on the HoG, yes. Unfortunately, Jennifer's OPL (occult programming language) is High Enochian (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enochian), so that's propably not much use to you. But as stated, you can just ignite it with an ordinary lighter to the same effect.

If that's not for you, tell Jennifer and she'll include an easier command phrase. You are free to include a line to that effect in your post to save time.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-19-13/2017:04>
Alright, I'm making a circuit around the McHugh's to look for back entrances, exterior security systems, fire escapes. 

Perception (searching): 4 hits. 

Not sure what to roll for acting natural, or if that needs a roll.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-20-13/0233:49>
The most likely would be Etiquette ("Etiquette is about blending into the social fabric. Skilled characters can move through a social situation without anyone realizing that they don’t belong."). So, an Etiquette + Charisma (Social) roll, opposed by Perception + Charisma (Social).
Composure (Charisma + Willpower) would be a distant second, but that's more when you are under extreme stress and try not to show it, i wouldn't say that applies here.

GM's call obviously, especially whether a roll is even required.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Scarecrow71 on <08-20-13/1706:54>
Ok, so over the last week my free time has taken a serious hit.  I am now working 12+ hours a day, and am actually in the office as opposed to working from home.  That seriously limits the amount of time I have to post.

On top of that, when I get home, I cannot ignore the wife or she'll kill me.  I mean, I could probably play if I'm dead, but I don't want to try that.

Unfortunately, I don't know when this is going to let up.  The project I'm on is just ugly (for lack of a better word), and I've got next to no time to do this.  I'm sorry guys, but I have to kill this game.

If someone else wants to take over, by all means do so.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Panzergeist on <08-20-13/2018:11>
How long do you think you'll be this busy?  I could wait. 
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: All4BigGuns on <08-20-13/2019:53>
I just know that I can't run Play-by-Post. I can only run when face-to-face, and I don't particularly enjoy doing so even then.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: dragonfire on <08-21-13/1100:38>
That's too bad. No problem dude. I'm already running one PBP, so not really up to running another one.
Title: Re: [OOC] And Shadows Will Fall [5E]
Post by: Serafina on <08-26-13/1733:57>
Well, bummer. Not up for running a game either sadly.