*****PRIVATE: [a--i--s] at [Mission_Impossible] >>>>>[Well, it do look good ol' Mutha Naytcha ain'a'gonna let us down fo' dis weeken'..one thing I'm concerned 'bout with usin' aircraft is tha' logistics o' keepin' 'em hidden. I tell you what. I can get one o' my team in tha area with a "low-observ'ble" aircraft...that hardware's only for really _special_ occasion's, see...but I think dis qualifies. Lynch, if we'z gonna have anythin' t'do with tha' UCAS navy, you'd betta let'em know that one o' ours be comin, with this: +++++include OTP.auth.pub.encr Giv that to whatevah folks be on tha nearest AWACS bird, an' they'll at leas' know we're there fo' tha purpose o' IFF. I don' know if they'd see us anyhow, but I'z not one t'take chances. The bird'll have AAM's and AGM's, and room t'stash some stuff if we find we need it. Le'z say we don' wanna put mo' than a few hundr'd kilos o' stuff inside; my birds ain't norm'lly cargo transports. Even given this storm an' such I don' wanna get it close t'tha island itself unless it's needed. Tha hope is to disable th'residents o' tha island with tha first volley o' missiles. We follow those up with a blanket o' FAE...nothin' really big, but enough t' shake out most mines an' sensors on tha surface an' tag anyone out in tha open. Then we let tha first folks onto shore, wif some assitance from a couple o' sea-air drones, an' iz' off an' runnin'. So what we need is a meetin t' hammer out tha final details. I figyah my scheduez mo' open than you folkses. Care t' suggest a time an' place? ]<<<<< -- V-12 <11:07:21 / 04-29-57> *****PRIVATE: Jason Stormwind >>>>>[Just four of us. We'll be there bright and early. Weapons. Well, you might find this a bit odd, but I use a bow most of the time, or my hands. I'm just not very good with firearms, although I can use them if I must. Diana uses a Ruger, Roxey whatever she gets her hands on, and Slash a Pred 2 and a Squirt. How do you want to work the effects of various toxins(non-lethal), or should Slash just use light dosages of his usual ones?]<<<<< -- Action Jackson <00:37:35/05-01-57> *****PRIVATE: Diana, Foxey Roxey, Slash >>>>>[Meet you all at my place tomorrow morning, bright and early. We're using paint, but feel free to bring some of your toys if you want em.]<<<<< -- Action Jackson <00:39:18/05-01-57> >>>>>[My contact inside InterPol leaked this to me. It's a composite report by Drake to his boss regarding the incident down in Tacoma, at the Five Eyes Motel. +++++ Engage Download +++++ Well, Commander, let's hear it. What the frag happened this time? "I received a telephone call from Jason Lynch last evening telling me to get airborne and to moniter the police channels. He did not remain on long enough to get a precise trace, but we narrowed it down to somewhere along the I-5 corridor in the Tacoma LTG. I ordered Sergent Montoya's and Sergent Strobe's teams to draw weapons, lethal ammunition, and security armor and to meet me at the choppers on the roof in two minutes. They did so and the choppers were ready and waiting. We began our transit down toward Tacoma at maximum safe speed in the hopes of catching Lynch himself in the act. However, I did not suspect that we would be able to do that even before we left." Then why did you still leave? "Because I have been ordered to investigate and arrest Lynch, sir. If he was interested in something in Tacoma, then I could potentially gain some insight by investigating personally what he was interested in. I ordered lethal rounds distributed to my agents because I suspected that Lynch was raiding what he believed was the hideout of a group of Leopard Guards. Because of his knowledge in this regard and my not wanting a repeat of the problems when we last ran into the Leopards...." Presumed Leopards, Commander. "No, sir, I stand by my statement and will do so before the review board as well. Continuing, I was not going to allow DocWagon or anyone else not affiliated with InterPol to move the bodies or the wounded. While en-route, I had the reduced forces of Sergent Tagit's unit escort a dispatched InterPol meatwagon and arranged to ensure that the Tacoma Cororner would leave us the bodies and that all Tacoma hospitals and DocWagon would inform us if they dispatched any ambulances. I received a communication relayed through Dispatch from Jason Lynch again, informing me that the target was the Five Eyes Motel, a motel only 7 minutes away. At this point I suspected this already from monitering the police reports of gunfire from that particular area and the fact that the chopper radar picked up a DocWagon HTR chopper heading toward the area. Contacting DocWagon confirmed that they had recieved no calls for a HTR unit to respond to that area. Lone Star was responding using auto units, but they were to arrive several minutes after we did. I ordered an InterPol forensics unit to be dispatched again, and then planned with Sergent Montoya and Sergent Strobe until arrival. Any questions at this point, sir, before I go into the details of securing the hotel?" Not yet. Continue, Commander. "Yes, sir. Upon arrival, Sergent Montoya's unit exited the first chopper, secured the roof, and then descended into the hotel for a room-by-room sweep. They were to remain in the hotel if possible and cover Sergent Strobe's unit and myself on the ground, with Sergent Montoya himself remaining on the roof. The second chopper with myself and Sergent Strobe's team landed in front of the main entrance and exited the chopper, which immediately took off to fly support with the other chopper until the arrival of Lone Star and additional InterPol support units. If you prefer, sir, I can have the screen play an audio/visual log. As you know, all InterPol security armor is equipped with helmet cameras." Do it. I suspect it will be clearer than your explanations. "I suspect so as well, sir." +++++ The scene changes to a trideo picture of a night scene in front of a motel. The motel is several floors tall and lit from the air by spotlights from two choppers as well as some streetlights which remain undamaged. The spotlights show smoke pouring form many of the windows as well as the front entrance, some of which are back-lit with the flickering orange of fire. [Captain, radio the fire department and have them here STAT] (Right away, sir.) The walls of the building have been chewed up badly. The softer walls have gaping holes in them while the harder have spalling marks that indicate extremely high ROF impacts, machinegun or higher. Four figures carrying assult rifles and wearing light security armor with the InterPol insignia on the back spread out around opposite ends of the building in pairs. One figure is just slightly ahead of the individual who is recording this. "Pause. Marshal, this shot is from my helmet. Sergent Strobe remained with me and covered me as we advanced on the lobby. Resume" [Seal up, folks. Smoke and fire protocol. Use ultrasonics and visual filtering. Be careful.] (Roof secure. Team heading in. Setting up cover, lobby on full coverage.) [Good, Monty. Keep alive.] The two teams have disappeared around the corners, and the camera is advancing toward the destroyed front entryway. Fire is licking away at the walls and furniture and there is more damage as the camera moves forward. The barrel of an assult rifle, probably an AK-98, appears vertically in front of the camera, and then the second figure rushes forward into the open space, across to the burning counter, and takes aim with a similar weapon down the corridor. (Corners report.) (East escape aflame, smoke and incendiary probably. No bodies yet.) (West escape the same, one body, burned to death. Moving inside.) [Upper report.] (Roof access clear, no bodies yet.) (Elevator locked in basement, too much smoke, thermal says fire along the walls.) [Front clear, one dead.] The view changes as the camera moves inward toward the corridor. The chaotic visual picture is overlaid immediately with ultrasonic gridlines, giving door locations and several forms lying in the hallway, plus weapons lying near them. The camera advances to the first door, looks in, identifies an apparently empty rec room, and turns to advance further up the corridor to the next door. This one is also open, and the fire has taken its toll on the interior, which is nearly totally aflame. [How long ago?] (Less than 5. The fire's not spread far enough. Could still be survivors.) [Corners.] (East escape secure.) (West escape secure.) The camera looks down at one of the bodies, which is missing a head. Another has nearly been crushed. (Jesus....) [Fall back and secure entrance. Upper, continue full sweep. Activity, Monty?] (None yet.) [Captain?] (Bogey still 4 23 away. LS in 60 seconds. No other activity.) [Roger.] {click}[DOWN!!!!] The click, barely audible over the fire, sounded a lot like an amplified safety going off. The picture suddenly spins to the left and the camera records a blur of motion and the nearly instantaneous appearance of the rifle into the field of view. The sudden roar of amplified burstfire from the rec room is almost as quickly dampened as the figure that was covering this one dives foward to avoid the shots. Flare compensation kicks in as the rifle fires on the ultrasonicly determined figure behind the muzzleflash. A couple of holes in the wall appear in a flash of explosive ammo before the remainder of the autofire intersects the figure's chest. The human behind the SMG flashes with impacts and collapses. (BOSS!) [Jane!, you ok?] (Yeah, just shaken.) [Upper, watch it! There's a few still alive and dangerous.] (Roger.) (Is he....nevermind. He is.) [Frag.... Fall back to the entry.] The camera shows the armored figure has risen and checked the attacker, and then risen and fallen back to the lobby. The camera advances up to the body, which is now essentially missing his whole ribcage. The camera visibly wobbles, and then turns to leave and rejoin the other figure. (I thought explosive was special issue only, Boss.) [It is. So is armor piercing. Upper, report!] (Bodies, no wounded.) (One wounded. Losing a lot of blood, though) [Captain, call for an ambulance, and get another meatwagon. IP wagon only.] (Right away, sir.) [Continue sweep.] (Roger.) "Pause. At this point, the teams downstairs discovered very little else and had no additional difficulties. The upper team discovered only three other survivors, but Forensics later identified that at least two individuals escaped prior to our arrival. The next thing is when Lone Star, followed by the presumed DocWagon HTR chopper arrived. Resume." (Boss, what the frag are you doing?) [Getting out of this fraggin armor.] (Boss, you sure that's wise?) [Strobe, I've got a spiked tail, muzzle, and scales. You want to be in security armor like that?] (Point taken. I must say, though, you've got a nice ass, even if it is a bit scaly.) (Sergent!) [Relax, Captain. Thanks, Jill. Just toss me my pants and shirt, would you?] (Uh, boss, got a question.) [Shoot, LA.] (Uh, where's your....you know.) (snort) (chuckle) [Now, isn't that just a bit private, LA?] (Just curious, sir.) [Scales hide a multitude of sins, LA. Ahh, much better. Monty, you sighted in?] (Yeah, Boss.) (Commander, Lone Star in 20.) [Right. Positions, everyone! Full cover. They may not be real LS, so be ready for that.] (Wagon bogey in 2 10.) [Roger that.] The camera, no longer from the helmet of Commander Drake, takes in the scene, still erily lit by the burning hotel. But now it includes the figure of Drake himself, rebuilt legs, spiked tail, muzzle and all, wearing the usual InterPol uniform of an armored jacket and urban fatigues, as the sounds and sights of at least two different Patrol- One's converge on front of the building. Overhead, the choppers are still circling the hotel, thier spotlights still lighting up the streets and allys. One Patrol-One screaches to a stop facing Drake, who has his rifle slung over his shouler, with it's lights on the Commander, while the passenger side door pops open. {Drop your weapon!} [I'm Commander Drake, InterPol, officer!] {I said drop your weapon!} [(clack) Come and check my ID, officer! Have the officers behind me cover you!] The camera shows that Drake, who hasn't turned around, is covered from behind by two Lone Star officers from the second Patrol-One. The first officer advances carefully, aiming at Drake with his pistol, until he reaches him. Drake holds out his ID, which the officer takes, inspects quickly, and then returns. {Is this your responsibility, Commander?} [Yes, but I could use some help securing it.] {Right away. Anyone alive inside?} [Three, and a couple ambulances are on the way. Any meatwagons not with InterPol are illegal, so detain them and thier drivers.] The video changes as an armed Stallion not too dissimilar from the InterPol choppers circling comes into view over the highway and begins a rapid descent toward the hotel. It has all the markings of a DocWagon High Threat Response unit. (DocWagon Bogey arriving. Weapons active. Cross-section's too low, too hard to see. Wagon doesn't use ECM. Something's wrong.) [Arm and lock on, Captain. Weapons free, remember.] (Roger. Weapons on target.) {Against DocWagon?} [I have reason to believe they're not really DocWagon, and InterPol want's these bodies and survivors to stay in our custody. They are witnesses in an ongoing investigation.] {Hey, you said your responsible.} [Right. How long till more Lone Star arrive?] {Less than a minute.} The chopper lands and immediately disgorges 6 people, four in heavy armor and packing HK-227 SMGs, the other two in armored jackets and carrying light pistols. They duck low below the blades of the chopper and rush toward the hotel. [Halt! This area is under InterPol control! I am responsible for those inside, not DocWagon!] (Get the frag out of my way, we have a patient we need to save.) [Bulldrek! There's only three survivors, and they are under arrest.] (What, you want them to die? Get the frag out of my way!) The camera shows the arrival of more Lone Star vehicles in the background, but it has focused on the figure in DocWagon armor and on Drake. The DocWagon figure reaches out and tries to shove Drake aside. Drake, reacting too quickly to be unaugmented, takes a step back and spins, striking the figure in the side with an apparently very strong and dangerous spiked tail. The figure grunts in pain and tries to spin out of the way while another of the supposed DocWagon support personnel brings up his SMG only to have the individual who's camera is recording this fire a burst into his chest, knocking the target down and possibly killing him as well. Drake continues his spin as the Lone Star cops drop and get behind cover and begin firing at the DocWagon personnel as well, dropping two others almost immediately. The Stallion begins revving up it's rotors and lifting off when one of the InterPol Stallions lets fly a stream of tracers and lead that shatters the canopy and passenger compartment of the HTR chopper. Drake, still grappling with the initial DocWagon figure, closes and literally picks him up, armor and all, and throws him into a third DocWagon figure. The DocWagon Stallion crashes hard on the road and explodes as the rotors fly off in various directions. Shrapnel flys all over the area, catching a couple of the cops. (Frag! Chopper's damaged. I've got to set down.) [Everyone ok?] (Yeah.) {Drek! Dispatcher, code 00, Five Eyes Hotel.} [Frag, who's down?] {My partner!} The camera now shows additional destruction and the arrival of the next wave of Lone Star cops, who start pouring out and securing the area. Behind them comes a hearse with the lable "Tacoma Coroner" on it's side. (Commander, Tagit's 4 out. Tacoma coroner meatwagon just pulled in.) [What? Stop them!] The second InterPol chopper opens fire on the coroner vehicle but misses, leaving twin trails of sparks and small explosions along the road. The meatwagon accelerates through the fire of the exploded Stallion and through the rain of bullets that seem to have very little effect. Drake himself gets down on one knee, unslings his rifle, and fires a single grenade from his hip. The grenade hits the ground just beneath the front end of the meatwagon and the explosion lifts the hearse totally off the ground, flipping it in the air and landing on it's left side before falling over onto it's wheels again. Cops rush over to it and tear open the doors, removing four people, one of which is dead. Drake rushes over to them, grabs one, and tears off a shirt sleeve. As he does this, another one shoves off a Lone Star cop and raises his left arm, palm flat toward Drake. Before the attacker has the chance to get off the shot from his cyber gun, his head explodes violently. Drake cringes and turns fast enough to see a violently headless body collapse to the ground. [Monty, I owe you.] (Whatever....) [Now, who do you work for?] 'Frag off.' [I don't recognize that corporation. Perhaps that tatoo means something.] 'You're dead, Drake.' [Not yet. Why are you smiling?] 'Because I know something you don't know.' [Not for long. Move him.] The camera view changes again, this time to the roof, probably Sergent Montoya's perspective. In the scope of the Ranger Arms Sniper Combo rifle is the head of one of the coroners. It seems almost unnaturally smooth and the power of the scope is high enough that several surgery scars around the bald skull are visible. This particular individual also looks zoned out, almost as if highly drugged. (Oh drek. Get out of there!) Drake and the cops dive away from the car as suddenly a fireball erupts in the scope, starting at the head and exploding outward with the force and noise of an area effect cranial bomb. Most of the cops and Drake are far enough away that the blast effect won't kill them, but the targets who were in the meatwagon are all killed. +++++ End camera feed So, you have no survivors? "No, I have three from inside the hotel. Each is under extreme guard, Special Branch only. All the other bodies are in the care of Forensics. There is enough evidence to indicate that they were Leopard Guards, operating on UCAS territory. Thus they were breaking UCAS law and, I suspect, the UCAS broke thier own laws to eliminate them. I have no proof of the latter aspect, but I have an impressive list of Aztechnology cybernetics, tatoos, explosive residues, telephone calls, sattelite connections, and more to indicate that they were connected intimately with Aztechnology. And with the deadman teeth and cranial bombs surgically removed from the survivors, they will be able to tell us precisely why they were there. That, sir, is my report." +++++ End Download +++++ See, I thought you might like to see that.]<<<<< -- Trideo Pirate <00:41:02/05-01-57> ***** Private: Serenity Security >>>>>[Quit Ya belli-achin... all of you I know you all liked it.I wish we did this more often, say was any of this being recorded? I wanna know how griff pulled that stunt with the Bars...?]<<<<< -- Michael McKnight <10:00:17/05-01-57> Field Officer Serenity Security *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[ Loud and clear. ]<<<<< -- Imp <10:56:24/05-01-57> *****PRIVATE: Serenity Security >>>>>[ Magic. ]<<<<< -- Griffyn <11:33:18/05-01-57> ***** PRIVATE: AJ >>>>>[They have, or so I have been told, a ranger-X-like weapon thats equiped for training purposes. I am a little dubious about their usefulness. As to the squirts -- Use water, or something just a little more viscus so you can still get the same effective distance. The Range Master will alert your target that he/she is "out" if the effects of the toxin aren't countered in the appropriate amount of time. I'd like to get at least 3 good sessions out of your people if you can at all manage it. 1 assualt, 1 assisted assault, and one either you guys lead it, or you can be inside so we can watch you work the area. If there is anything else you need, let me know.]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <16:41:31 / 05-01-57> ***** PRIVATE: Serenity Security >>>>>[Its all being recorded. Ever single one of our mistakes is forever captured on chip. Not to sound too negative, the good parts are on chip as well. Actually, I think we are doing pretty good out there. To be honest, we dont see that much action normally. Things have been, so I hear, quiet]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <16:45:11 / 05-01-57> *****PRIVATE: [a--i--s] at [Mission_Impossible] >>>>>[Okay, V-12. Sounds good to me. Our backup air is a private bird, nothing fancy: just a Mistral, on a private flight. That can lift a dozen at a push, if we need it. The island's dead as far as sensors go. Maybe shortrange IR, but the storm will shut that down. I'd guess they're leaving it low-profile, so that they can deny all knowlege later. "If it was ours would it have been so lightly defended?" Long-range air search radars mean significant military backing, and no way could Aztlan credibly deny knowlege then. I'd suggest a planning meet at >>encrypted<< to go over details.]<<<<< -- Lynch <18:01:21 / 05-01-57> *****PRIVATE: Major Zicahuata >>>>>[Major, here are your new orders: this should control the situation and still offer opportunity to attack Lynch and our other enemies. Scatter First Platoon, and disperse them in sections around your location. Hotels are a possibility, but the safehouse at >>encrypted<< would also serve admirably. Use them for your own defence: it is likely that your location is known by know. This is to be an ambush: if necessary we will destroy Beech, if we can trap Lynch and The Lady inside the building. Dispatch Third Platoon, with any survivors from Second, back to Tenochtitian: I will have them brought here to augment my own security, for the same reason. You will make some show of leaving Seattle. We will leak an angry exchange in which we rancorously attempt to blame each other for the failure of Manchu. Meanwhile, you will come here to co-ordinate the defence of the project headquarters, a task for which you are better skilled than I: I will move to Seattle and control Phase IV of Manchu directly.]<<<<< -- Colonel Tepanohoutec <23:13:35/05-01-57> Aztlan Intelligence Service *****PRIVATE: Major Zicahuata >>>>>[Well, Jose, Tepanohoutec shows his craven colours again. Here is a suggested reply to his cowardly suggestions. +++++include file: reply.txt Elaborate and polish it, so the words are your own. Meanwhile, _these_ are your orders: protect Manchu by destroying Lynch. If Drake offers interference, eliminate him too. Lynch is a simple man, lacking in wit or subtlety. If he knew where you were, he would have attacked you. If he knew where we were based, he would have attacked us. He has done neither, therefore he does not know of our locations. He is hunted, isolated, showing signs of great stress, and has no information to act upon. We will leak information to him, draw him to a time and place of our choosing, and kill him. Tepanohoutec persistently overestimates Lynch's abilities. Do not make the same mistake. And, since you are now the field commander for Manchu, I am promoting you to Lieutenant-Colonel. My congratulations, Colonel Zicahuata: it is a pleasure to reward a loyal servant of the State.]<<<<< -- CORRUPTED *****PRIVATE: Colonel Tepanohoutec >>>>>[Sir, I regret that at present InterPol are monitoring air traffic, and an unusually high level of surveillance is in place at Sea-Tac. I believe that Drake has diverted assets from his hunt for Lynch to pursue and harass the Leopards: thus, I am unable to move any forces out of Seattle at present. Similarly, it would not be wise for me to attempt to leave the Metroplex at present. I will disperse the Leopards as you suggest, and concentrate upon local defence, but the rest of your orders cannot be obeyed at present. I will advise you when this situation changes.]<<<<< -- Major Zicahuata <23:23:42/05-01-57> Aztlan Intelligence Service *****INTERNAL: Personal Log, Pedro Tepanohoutec >>>>>[+++++begin recording It can only be the Doctor. I should have guessed: the manipulator, the controller, the man who changed his loyalties from Tir Taingire to Aztlan in an instant. Even my mail is being monitored, intercepted, replied to without my knowlege now, and it is happening here on the island: only Winterleaves or Chicarra could do so without my knowlege, and Chicarra is a pragmatist who would reject this foolish plot. Could I involve IS? No. Chicarra is too honest and too direct, and does not understand the Doctor's motivation. Winterleaf would control him magically, or kill him - and, probably, blame it on me. I stand alone here. Damn Jose and his maniac patriotism! He is so easily led! Wave our country's flag and Zicahuata would follow. Tell him his mother was an enemy of the state and he would kill her himself. Now he is beyond my control. Manchu is almost certainly doomed. My country risks catastrophe if Jose has failed to ensure his Leopards are entirely deniable. What should have been a simple mission has become TARFU, to coin a Lynchism: I have no control of the situation, yet I am responsible for it. Should I confront the Doctor?...Hah. No. I would merely become one of his "experimental subjects". He has too many sponsors, too many allies in high places. What, after all, _is_ his involvement? He was from the Tir, but what do we know of him? Why did he flee, and why did a pair of Thorns come after him to kill him? And why is a magician involved on a software project? All these questions I should have asked before. Now it is too late. What would Lynch do in my place? Another foolish question. A warrior like Lynch would fight his way out, but I am no warrior. Jose would attack, lashing out at his enemies, sure in the knowlege that he was a servant of the State and could do no wrong: but Lynch's .357s blew that conceit out of my body. An honourable man would end his life, opening his veins or shooting himself, but I am too much of a coward: I love life too much to end it by choice, never to sit here on the rocks and see the sun set into a Pacific storm again. After all, though, do I have a choice? When Lynch attacks Clipperton, I will probably die: either at his hands, or executed for my failure. I can send Chicarra and a few other good men to the mainland, and bring out replacements who the State will not miss. I can send backups of the Manchu data with them - hence Chicarra and his best men must guard them - so they will not be lost when Lynch strikes. I will salvage what I can for my country. I can do no more. +++++end recording]<<<<< -- Pedro Tepanohoutec <23:35:35/05-01-57> *****PRIVATE: Blademaster >>>>>[Thanks, Blademaster, for the offer, but I do feel better, much better, now. I've taken steps to protect my friends, and I have sung my death song, and now all that matters is finishing Manchu. After that... there are a few possibilities, and if necessary I'm ready to die. Sounds dramatic, I know, but with all the men I've killed I have no right to whine when my turn comes. If I do get through this, I'll be in touch. You offered to help me with my problems, I may need to take you up on it, and I'll do the same for you if whatever's chasing you catches you. Deal? If you've been here, you know how much it means when someone offers to help you. Thank you again.]<<<<< -- Lynch <00:30:41/05-02-57> ***** PRIVATE : BOOM BOOM >>>>>[I have the explosives, I have the weapons, I have the plan. I only need your technic help. Target : Metahumans Year convention. Date : >encripted< contact me at : >encripted<]<<<<< -- Judas <7:55:50 / 05-02-57> *****PRIVATE: [a--i--s] at [Mission_Impossible] >>>>>[ Are you gonna want me and some of my people on this one, Lynch, or are we gonna hit Jose simultaneously? ]<<<<< -- Tangent <10:28:51/05-02-57> >>>>>[Well, we notice from the high suicide rate in Seattle for the past week that at least 35 people missed our presence. The traffic on the dn.fan.oh-so-cool-pair-of-physically-perfect-runners has also leaped. Apparently some idiot thought we died in a warehouse fire... Moron. Two simple questions: 1. What would we be doing in a warehouse? 2. How the hell would a _FIRE_ kill us? It doesn't even act in a semi-malicious manner. (Not unless there was an elemental behind it or something, but there was neither a warehouse, nor a fire, so that is unlikely) What have we missed?]<<<<< -- Jen and Gabe <11:45:21/05-02-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[I'm really sorry about that, but I've been having a few problems with my provider (my account froze), and Sland isn't all that accessible from public terminals. Like I said, I'm sorry. Have you been able to find anything else out about that pair? I heard that the girl died, but that was about it. What did she die of? I haven't been able to find a coroner's report on that one.]<<<<< -- Cybil <11:45:42/05-02-57> *****Internal: Morgue, Imp, Kor, Edge, Gohei >>>>[All of you get a call from Mako. If you have Video you see a Japanese man in his late twenties, or early thirties. From the little bit that you can see the man is well dressed and appears to be in a Tres Chic suit. If you do not have video then you only catch the voice you definitely pick up a Japanese accent. "Gentlemen. I am assuming that all of you have met, talked or that all of you will at least be able to get along. It is time discuss payment. For all five of you I am willing to pay the >six digit figure<. If any of you can not work together and feel you must leave let me know now so that I may adjust the price. I am paying for a shadow run team not solos." Mako pauses for a bit. "If you have no problem with the payment then here are some more details. Orion uses a custom made sniper rifle. The ammunition he uses is a very heave caliber and it we know that it can penetrate vehicle armor. Begin your search with weapon smiths and metallurgist in Seattle." Again a pause. "We also know that he enjoys industrial music. So check some of the live band clubs. As for what he looks like we don't have much to go on. He killed a female agent of ours who got close enough to give us this description," you see him looking down at what might be a report "tall, just over six feet, very athletic build, long black hair, a baby face; he is young, age is about twenty. He is attractive and likes the company of beautiful women. We are not sure if he is an elf. The report says that his body structure is elven but that he does not exhibit the typical long pointed ears that all elves have. They could be clipped. We do know that he speaks the Elven tongue though." "Any questions?" ]<<<<< -- Mako <08:50:23/05-02-57> *****Internal: Everyone >>>>>["We interrupt this broadcast for a special news bulletin" +++++Video +++++Audio Behind the reporter you can see a burning mass of metal that use to once be a vehicle. There is a crowd of citizens surrounding the scene watching the fire and speaking with Lone Star about the incident. Fire fighters are spraying foam on the vehicle and seem to have the fire under control. A Doc Wagon medical team seems to taking bodies away from the scene. "This is Frank Woofer for W.A.R.P. news reporting live from the scene of what appears to be a terrorist attack here on the streets of downtown Seattle. As you can see a Mitsubishi Nightsky was the target of of this attack. Our reports show that the Nightsky belonged to the Yokiu Corporation a new Japanese Third Tier Corporation in the Seattle Metroplex. "There were five passenger in the vehicle when it was struck twice in rapid succession by a fire manipulation spell. Witnesses say that a blast of air knocked pedestrians away from the vehicle and then two fire balls came from the top of the Lewis Tower striking the car. The car exploded sending debris flying into early morning crowds. Luckily no one was critically wounded as Doc Wagon reached the scene moments after the explosion." "No terrorist groups or policlubs have taken responsibility for this attack. At this time the only clue Lone Star has to go by is the bullet holes in the drivers door. Bullet holes forming the constellation of Orion". The camera zooms in on the driver door, the door is still burning but it is easy to make out the pattern of the constellation of Orion. "This is Frank Woofer from W.A.R.P. news." "We now return you to your regularly scheduled program." +++++Audio off +++++Video off ]<<<<< -- WARP News report <10:21:57/05-02-57> *****Internal: Morgue, Imp, Kor, & Edge contact points >>>>[I am willing to take this man's money. I recomend that we divide it evenly, excepting a small portion for expenses incured during the action. As to business, if someone will follow up on the rifle lead, I will investigate the local music scene. Are we in agreement? Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei <13:45:33/05-02-57> *****Internal: Morgue, Imp, Kor, and Edge contact points >>>>>[Do any of you have contacts inside Lone Star or the Yokiu Corporation? Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei <14:12:33/05-02-57> ***** PRIVATE: Morgue, Imp, Kor, Edge >>>>>[You all do what you need to do. Research of this type has never been my forte, never will be. The sniper's either has a couple of mages in tow, or hired them for that particular job. Someone needs to gather information about the target of the hit. I have a couple of things going on this week but I should be free to move by Sunday or so. If you have a target before then, you can phone me and I will roll.]<<<<< -- Kor <18:05:56 / 05-02-57> ***** PRIVATE: Imp >>>>>[We are in the middle of training right now. If you can do anything to slow them down so they arent ready to move until after I've had a chance to rest, it would be greatly appreciated. Can you work the Stocks angle on the target? Find out what the deal is with the corp. Are they going under and need more publicity? Is this sniper a former employee? If you have time above that, can you look into Policlub activities of both our johnson AND the corp from the last hit? I've had problems with some of my bodyguards that I have taken with me into japan. They, as a sweeping generalization, are intolerant of metahumans and if Orion is elven, he might have just decided to do what he can to bring down a small corp. Im grasping at straws here. To be honest with you, I am not totally sure I need to be involved in this at all. The mages are the only wild card in this. What information, if at any, can you get me on our other team members?]<<<<< -- Kor <18:07:41 / 05-02-57> ***** PRIVATE: Cybil >>>>>[Ugh. She just wasted away. That was the only thing we could come up with. You've been out of contact for quite sometime. Here is the update on the research into the situations: +++++ Include full dump Thats a lot of stuff to sift through. Let me know when you are done.]<<<<< -- Kor <18:21:00 / 05-02-57> *****Private: Imp, Kor, Gohei, Edge >>>>>[I have contacts inside the Lone Star forensics division as well as contacts in the Black Arms field. I will focus my initial investigations on Orion's unique weaponry: who has the connections and expertise to manufacture orion's weapon and/or ammunition. Understanding that Orion himself might have the ballistic engineering knowledge to construct it himself. Regardless, he would need to obtain top quality materials. Secondly, Lone Star's forensics division will provide a good foundation for investigations into the most recent hit. If the Star does not want to share their information, then I will be forced to obtain it through more direct clandestine actions. If any of your actions result in the need to infiltrate or acquire a certain peice of information or a guarded item, I can provide the electronic expertise. Otherwise, contact should be maintained through private messages.]<<<<< -- Morgue(15:22:43/05-02-57) *****Private: Detective Sarah Burns >>>>>[Detective Burns, How has life been treating you lately? I understand that there was a Yokiu exec asassinated in downtown just this morning. Have any idea why? I didn't think Yokui Corp was involved in any hostile takeovers, or internal conflicts that would warrant such a direct attack. I'd appreciate any information you could pass along concerning the exact nature of the attack and any possible leads Lone Star is looking into. I understand the sensitivity of this case, but as you know, information can be obtained a lot easier without the constrains of the Law. I'd definitely be able to pass along any information that does not compromise my current situation.]<<<<< -- Morgue (15:55:02/05-02-57) *****Private: Morgue >>>>>[Morgue, riding the edge of the latest shadowy event, eh? I won't ask why you've obtained an interested in Yokiu affairs; I'd only receive some cryptic noncommittal response. I'll see what I can scrounge up for you concerning the attack. I can tell you right now that it looks like an assassination, and a rather heavy-handed one at that. Keep in touch.]<<<<< -- Det. Burns (15:57:57/05-02-57) *****Private: Blademaster >>>>>[Thank you. I feel I must apologize for and explain the delay in my reply to your generous offer. I got involved in an unfortunate... altercation near the docks last sunday. I have not been able to reach a terminal for the last week. But to business. I am willing to receive your offer. I will make the requisite contact, soon.]<<<<< -- Ronin <11:08:21/5-3-57> PLAYTHING OF A CRUEL GOD... JAIMIE NICHOLSON, NEW ZEALANDER *****Internal: Imp, Kor, Morgue, and Edge drop points >>>>>[My search has met with some success. Orion may be going by the name "Stephen". This individual meets the description given, 1.83m athletic build, 85kg. black hair, green eyes, tanned and an elvish appearance without the distinctive ears. Known associates include: "Black Cat": a heavily cyeber-enhanced elven sam, wears black "Road Runner": a human rigger with poor hygiene (specialty: car) This information was gathered at the "Underworld 93" in the Puyallup Barrens, a location which our target is known to frequent, and is familiar with the owner, "Marcus" I would recommend an evening ambush at this site. A launched flash gernade will take advantage of his natural low-light vision, and long range sniper fire will eliminate his offensive/perceptive magical abilities. Most mages are unable to detect anything beyond one hundered meters, nontheless, I recomend that you fire from extreme range, Morgue. The flash may or may not be necessary, if the first shot can bring him down. I anticipate not, as mages, in my experince, pack as much protective magic as possible. Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei (22:04:43/05-02-57) *****PRIVATE: Jason Stormwind >>>>>[Did you receive the background profiles I sent? If so, have you had time around the training exercises to review them? This Yokiu hit is an interesting one, a fire manipulation big enough to take out that car must have been a flame strike or flame bomb, they both have Deadly drain, hellish spells to throw. A caster able throw a large mana barrier (the blast of air?) and then two flame bombs are few and far between. I know terrorist groups are just as magical as any other but I just get the feeling that was a hired heavy hitter. Maybe a terrorist group payed the bill, but any group with that sort of fire power on call would have used it more often. I am even entertaining the idea that it may have been an entity that does not have to worry with drain, I have had dealings with a shadow spirit before. However the fact that the pedestrians were cleared does not really gel with that. It looks like I have may have moved to a very interesting city in interesting times. The Chinese would not consider this good fortune, I reserve judgement for now.]<<<<< -- Dirk Vincent <14:17:20/05-03-57> *****Private:Lynch >>>>>[The offer is no problem. Should you need assistance, I may be able to provide it. As to whats chasing me, I don't think anyone can hel;p with that. Either way, should you need help, a false trail left, a spelel througn, a bullet fired, I'll be around :)]<<<<< -- Blademaster <10:32:43/5-3-57> *****Private:Judas >>>>>[I provide my own explosives :) No offence. The Metahumans Year convention. Ought to be a good target. I was lookin for something interesting to blow up anyway. So, where and when's it goin off?]<<<<< -- Boom Boom <12:54:43/5-3-57> *****PRIVATE : Boom Boom >>>>>[Ok.Boom Boom. Date : 20:00:00 / 05-10-57. I need a Big KAABBOOOMM. Contact me]<<<<< -- Judas <9:20:00 / 05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[ I'm working on it. I've got a friend running some background checks on Mako and the Corp for Policlub activity .. he's also going to see if he can find any quick information about the rest of our team. I'll stall if I can, and I'll shoot a message through NB if it looks like we're going to move out. ]<<<<< -- Imp <10:58:12/05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: Flux >>>>>[ Hey bro, you got time to run some background stuff for me? ]<<<<< -- Imp <11:01:40/05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: Imp >>>>>[ Sorry, man, unless it's _real_ important, I'm kinda tied up at the moment. Give >encrypted< a call.. He's a friend of mine, and he owes me a favor or two. I'll give him a call and let him know to expect you. ]<<<<< -- Flux <**:**:**/**-**-**> ***** PRIVATE: Dirk Vincent >>>>>[We didnt get anything back from your checks but there are a couple that are still out. The background checks are just the first part of the interview process. You will be contacted via more ... conventional means so that we can set up an interview. Assuming that everything works out, we can likely have an offer letter ready for you shortly after you interview (or at your interview, as has happened for a few). Please, be patient. As to the footage -- I dont have a clue what all of that was about. To be honest, it wasnt directed at any of our current charges so it doesnt affect us in the slightest.]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <15:57:43 / 05-03-57> Field Officer Serenity Security *****PRIVATE: [a--i--s] at [Mission_Impossible] >>>>>[I figured a two-team hit for the island. Probably overkill, but I'd rather be safe than sorry right now. We should be out two days, three tops, which should mean you can either subcontract or split off your surveillance specialists to keep Zicky-boy under observation. We'll take him when we get back. For Clipperton, I'd like your people to go in on the dock and take the south end of the camp: we'll go ashore on the north-east, where the rocks are worst, and distract them while you land right on top. Then, while they try to deal with you, we close on them. We have three routes out: two air, one by sea the way we came in. Prisoners we mostly leave on the island, but any scientists or seniors we subdue and take if possible. Ditto computer storage units. Why am I leaving Zicky-boy in the breeze for a couple of days? Partly I want to make him sweat. Partly, I'm feeling better than I was but I'm still jumpy and tense and I don't delegate well. A weakness, I know. On the other hand, Zicahuata's running out of troops, friends, markers and luck.]<<<<< -- Lynch <22:10:42/05-02-57> >>>>>[Is the job still on, Mako? I have other employment I can take, if you no longer require my services.]<<<<< -- Easy [22:13:53/05-02-57> ***** PRIVATE: Imp, Kor, Morgue, Gohei >>>>>[I would still like to cast my vote to do this upclose and personal. He deserves that at the least. Ill make sure the mages do not get to be too much of a problem.]<<<<< -- Kor <16:14:18 / 05-03-57> >>>>>[Mako? Did someone say Mako? If it's the same Mako I know you better watch yourself.]<<<<< -- Orion *****Private: Easy >>>>>[You fool. Do not mention my name unless it's in an encrypted message. Ask Kor if he and the others can use your help. If so I will negotiate with you your worth. Do not make a mistake again.]<<<<< -- Mako <09:50:12/05-03-57> ***** PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[Funny you should say that. Im seeking information about a Mako. Might be the one you know, might not, but either way, Im willing to drop 5,000 nY in corporate script (is Ares good with you, or would you perfer something more...palatable?) just for your thoughts on the subject matter at hand.]<<<<< -- Kor <17:31:15 / 05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: [a--i--s] at [Mission] Impossible >>>>>[The R&D end of Project Manchu is neutralised. Here's our part, for those who missed it. I'll send in three parts, because every story should have a beginning, middle and end. +++++begin video The air is thick, almost soupy. in the view: Lynch's cybereye recording, you recognise the overlaid symbols. He, Lilith, Quinn and Blade are wearing what look like dark-grey chemsuits, hoods back and masks dangling, and wearing rucksacks., At first you think you might be in the back of a van, until Lynch looks around to see a cramped control room, a woman in a poopy suit pressing her face to a periscope eyepiece, doing a fast all-round look. "Clear visual, cleat IR. ESM?" "Nada." She snaps her fingers and the scope hisses down, moves to a small video screen and replays the view. The first second as the scope head emerges is smearily indistinct, water still flowing over the lens, then the view is not much clearer: a dark overcast, sheets of rain, quite high seas, and a deserted rocky shore a few hundred yards away. The view repeats, near then far IR, showing little more. Finally, she checks the navigation console. "Okay, Lynch. We're where we're meant to be and you're all clear. Seas are pretty rough, though. Careful getting ashore. Go out through the trunk in pairs. All set?" Lynch rises, pulls up the hood: he and Lilith check each others' masks (emergency air supplies, like Navy helicopter crewmen use) and check the air bottles, then squeeze themselves and their packs into the narrow diver release chamber. Lynch snaps a safety line onto Lilith's suit as an electronic voice says "Stand by to flood." The small metal cylinder fills rapidly with water, and the upper hatch opens automatically: the two swimmers rise out, buoyant, towards the glow of the surface. Laden with gear, though buoyant in the sealed oversuits, Lynch and Lilith awkwardly paddle towards the shore: the occasional flashes of lightning illuminating it more clearly. The seas are rough, with a three-foot swell, and the two swimmers are hurled onto the rocks by a breaking wave - you hear Lynch grunt with pain as he hits - then they crawl rapidly up the shore to get clear of the next one. "Ouch." mutters Lynch, flexing his left hand. "You okay?" Lilith is stripping off the oversuit to reveal combat fatigues in a melange of greys, a good urban pattern and perfect for these rocks. "I'll live. That wrist's still a bit tender, is all." Lynch, likewise, loses the suit, wrapping it up and wedging it into the rocks. Both open their equipment bags and begin preparing, as the rain sheets down around them. Quinn and Blade join on them as Lynch assembles a PSG-7 sniper rifle and screws a silencer onto its barrel. "All right?" he asks, bringing out a webbing harness loaded with equipment and donning it. "Yeah, fine." replies Blade, as he strips the suit off. "This wave just picks us up, carries us down to the shore, puts us on the rock gentle as you like, pats me on the head and says 'there, there, you poor puny fleshy ones'. Nothing unusal." Quinn sniggers happily. Lynch's vision goes black, blurs with the encryption and accession of a datalink, is suddenly a map display scattered with green, yellow and blue symbols. "AWACS shows clear. Scheduled civil traffic, our Mistral, nothing out of the ordinary. The eye of the storm's going to be overhead in about ninety minutes. - thirty after H-Hour. We have about fifteen minutes if we want to use it." Normal sight - or Lynch's approximation thereof - returns. "I can't see the base at all." says Lilith softly, locking a magazine into her AK-47 and working the bolt. "We are on the right island, aren't we?" says Quinn, grinning hugely. "Oh, shut up!" snaps Lilith. "Twenty-four hours in a submarine with you was entirely too long. Especially with your idiotic jokes! I'd like to - sorry, sorry, Quinn." Quinn looks stricken, and Lilith puts her arms around the blonde shaman. "You know I hate submarines. They really scare me. And your jokes were funny. I'm sorry." "Okay." Quinn adjusts the ride of her webbing. "Can we like, kick their asses now?" Blade laughs. "Huh. Huh-huh huh. She said 'ass'". "Yeah! Yeah!" joins in Lynch. "She said 'ass'. That was, like, really cool! I could score!" "Shut up, buttmunch! She's _my_ woman! _I_'m gonna score!" "No way, dillweed! I'll kick you in the nads! I say she-" "BOYS!" snaps Lilith. "If you don't control yourselves, you're both grounded for a week." "Sorry." "Sorry." They move out, heavily laden, across the slippery rocks, treacherous with lichen and moss. Lynch's vision brings up a path - it seems to be made of digitised yellow bricks - and a sketchy representation of the compound, drawn where it should be: for half an hour they advance slowly, cautiously and in silence. "Down." says Lynch softly and all take cover. "We're three hundred yards from the north building. I still can't see shit. Anyone?" "Nothing" replies Blade. "I can smell them, but I can't see them."adds Lilith. "Not even in the astral." says Quinn. "Rain's too heavy. Means the watchers haven't seen us yet, though." "Okay. Extended line and move up, slow. We still have twenty minutes." They continue the slow advance, until a warm smear begins to appear on the thermal view. "Generator exhaust." whispers Blade. "Seen... I have buildings too." "Okay. Another twenty yards. Nine minutes to H-Hour." Soon, the indistinct outlines of the buildings can be seen through the doswnpour. "Everyone okay?" A chorus of assent. "Four minutes. Final checks." Lynch unslings the sniper rifle, settles it on its bipod, snuggles it into his shoulder. Blade is doing the same with a FN MAG-5. Lilith checks the safety on a MGL-12 grenade launcher, as Quinn hands another to Blade. Lynch sets up a small anemometrer, plugs trailing leads into it, hands a jackplug to both grenadiers who connect them to their weapons. "Crosswind's gonna be a bitch. Hope V-12's missiles correct for it." In the corner of Lynch's vision, the clock is ticking off seconds as he scans the windswept buildings. "Lights on in most. Nobody outside. Quinn, astral?" "Still too much water in the air for me to see through." "You going to be able to-" "I can throw mana no problem. Especially the stuff I'm planning to use, the rain will help me out. I just can't see." Quinn, sprawled on her back behind the three gunners, looks comfortable despite being soaked to the skin. "Five seconds." says Lynch calmly. Smoke trails suddenly begin descending from the sky, slamming down in undramatic puffs of dark smoke: the warheads are small, but well-placed. The lights abruptly go out across the compound. "Good guidance." Lynch zooms his vision in, fires twice at a satellite dish that looks fairly intact. "I'd guess twelve hit for sixteen fired. Now, we find out if he's a real pro..." "What do you mean?" asks Blade, bracing the MGL-12. "If he gets the FAEs to work in this wind." "Shit, I never thought-" "You can do it. You just have to be _good_. I couldn't, my speciality is - JESUS!!!" A seething cloud of flame envelops the buildings, rolls out towards the four on the rocks, fizzles out. The smoke is snatched away almost at once by the wind. "Outstanding! Way to go, V-12!" cheers Quinn happily. "Can we kill them a little now?" The rapid _thunks_ of the grenade launchers is her answer, mixed with the muffled clacks of the PSG-7: the bolt cycling, and the empty .300 Winchester Magnum cases ringing on the rocks, the loudest noise. The grenades are showier than the missiles, bursting with brighter flashes: one starts a sullen fire near the ruined generator shed. Blade passes his empty launcher back towards Quinn, brings up the MAG-5 and takes a deep breath. "Ready to let them know we're here?" "Go for it." The machine-gun hammers, tracers reaching out through the rain. Blade keeps the bursts fairly short, five to ten rounds, walking them across buildings at knee height. Lynch roves back and forth - zooming in as a head appears, targeting it and firing twice - as Lilith's grenades continue bursting across the area. "Lynch. We're ashore." Tangent's calm voice over the radio. "Roger." A hand signal to Lilith, who discards the now-empty MGL-12, and she and Lynch are up and running, twenty yards and then down. Lynch braces and aims, seeking targets and finding none. "Clear." Blade and Quinn move forward, Blade finding a solid place to brace his weapon and aiming - though not firing. A shift in the wind brings the sound of gunfire to them over the rainfall. "Silent F&M. Target, mark." The word DESIGNATE flares in Lynch's vision. an aiming mark on the largest and northernmost building. "Seen!" snaps Blade. "Ditch the jimpy?! "Negat. Lose it at the FEEP." They continue moving forwards, alterating short rushes. At fifty yards, a head appears at one (broken) window, peering through into the rain, suddenly coming apart as Lynch fires once. "One down in the target. Go noisy." Blade's FN-MAG opens fire again, chewing across the building. Lynch snaps on the PSG-7's safety, lays it down, and brings out his MP-5K. "Take your fire across to the east. I'll go in the west window. Lilith, nail it." Lilith's AK blows the remaining glass out of a window, and Lynch is up and sprinting to fly through it. +++++end video And now, a few messages from our sponsors... +++++include commercial_trideo: Kirin Beer +++++include commercial_trideo: Krunchy Krill Krispies Just in case you were hungry or thirsty...]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <17:04:42/05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: [a--i--s] at [Mission] Impossible >>>>>[We now return you to our scheduled programming. +++++begin video Lynch, flying through the shattered window, lands and rolls in a computer terminal room. Three guards huddled against the wall clutching their assault rifles turn to gawp with comical surprise as Lynch fires, three short bursts that knock all three to the ground, then he's covering the door as he runs to kick their weapons away. "In! Clear." Lilith makes a slightly less dramatic entrance. Lynch opens the door far enough to toss a concussion grenade, follows it up - two dazed men, neither armed, and he kicks both to the floor. "Tangent, we're in the north building." This seems to be a rest area - tables, chairs, vending machines - and several doors lead off it. Lynch braces behind a coffee machine, covering two doors: Lilith watches the other. "Roger. We're sweeping and clearing. No casualties to us. Resistance light." Quinn darts through the door, a pistol in each hand - a small, neat Browning, and a large ugly revolver - followed by Blade. "Which way?" Blade moves to plasticuff both men as Quinn looks unfocussed for a few moments. "That one's the john. That's the storeroom for spare stuffers. That's outside. That one and the floor are warded, shields within shields. They don't want anyone magical going down there." "So that door's the way down." Lynch moves to it, places yellow and black- striped objects the size of cigarette packs on each hinge, links them with yellow cord, waves everyone back. "Grenade party, then go in, move fast, hit hard. Binder patches." All slap on small dermadisks. Lynch changes the magazine in the MP-5K. "Fire in the hole!" The charges explode and the door falls off its ruined hinges: at once, Lynch and Blade are tossing grenades down the stairs. A cacophony of explosions shake the room, and then Lynch is sprinting down the stairs into the darkness. It's almost pitch black, and the rock is at a uniform temperature, screwing both low-light and thermal vision: suddenly the view kicks in to a very tolerable image-intensified view. "That you, Lynch?" says Blade in a low voice very close, as they stare down the corridor thus revealed - rows of doors, all closed. "Yeah. Eyelights. Near IR, naked eye won't spot them. Great for this shit. Quinn, we up for a check yet?" "Gimme a minute... left first to last. Computer room, clean. Some sort of cell, four people in bad shape. Another cell - yucky. Gross. Not a big threat, though. Another cell, two guys asleep. "Right, first to last. Some kind of tech gear, clear - wait, one person in there, looks unconscious. Next, an admin office, one guy in uniform packing papers and chips and disks out of his desk into a kitbag. Living quarters behind that, empty. Last is - " Quinn suddenly rocks backwards and opens her eyes. "Ouch. You're not meant to be able to do that." "Magic problem?" "A biggie. Nasty. Be careful. Leave it till last." "Cover that door. Lilith, the office." Lynch moves down the corridor, the MP-5K aimed at the last door, but since it stays closed he kicks open the last-but-one. Inside, lit by an emergency lamp on the wall, is a distinguished-looking man in his fifties, wearing Aztlan uniform but with no insignia other than colonel's eagles. As the door flies open and the MP-5K settles on his chest, he raises both hands and speaks, quickly but calmly, in excellent English. "Agent Jason Lynch, I am Colonel Pedro Tepanohoutec of the Aztlan Military Intelligence Service. I offer my surrender and request asylum in the United Canadian and American States." Lynch pauses, apparently somewhat surprised. Tepanohoutec smiles slightly. "I assure you I tell the truth. I will also help you with-" He is suddenly lit by a bright flash of light, Lynch's shadow cast in bright relief on the wall. "The Doctor!" snaps Tepanohoutec. "He has-" Lynch is already leaning around the door. Midway down the corridor, a crackling wall of green flame sealing it off: if Blade and Quinn are behind it, Lynch can't see them. Lilith is missing and the door at the end stands ajar. Lynch whispers softly "Fuck." as his radio squeals and whines, transmissions blocked. A hand signal sends the Colonel behind his desk, taking cover: Tepanohoutec opens his desk drawer and brings out a Manhunter automatic, working the slide, and indicates that he's watching Lynch's back. "Hell of way to pick a partner" mutters Lynch, easing slowly around the doorframe. He pokes one thumb around the open door, a window in his sight suddenly flashing up: there must be a camera in that digit. The room is an office, and seems to be empty: a door in the back wall is closed. Lynch takes three steps into the room, and is suddenly enveloped in a sickly yellow flame that throws him sideways to land, immobile. An Elf, dressed in an embroidered purple robe reminiscent of Tir Taingire nobility, walks through the door at the end. Lilith follows, eyes glazed and moving almost mechanically. "So sorry, Lynch, you tripped one of the most basic magical traps. You really thought your rag-tag band of has-beens and never-weres could harm me?" The Elf smirks. "Now, the supreme irony. You are paralysed for as long as I want you to be: and I can destroy two of my foes with one act. Lilith, kill him." Lilith steps forwards, drawing one of her Desert Eagle automatics. She thumbs off the safety, and raises it to aim directly at Lynch's face: the muzzle of the .44 is enormous, her blue eyes almost dead above it... +++++end trideo Will our hero survive? Will our heroine cast off the evil wizard's spell? Does Tangent know that I put rice pudding in his boots? Stay tuned to find out!]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <17:07:01/05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: [a--i--s] at [Mission] Impossible >>>>>[We now return you to the concluding episode of "Manchu - The Downfall." Viewers of a nervous disposition may wish to avert their eyes. The Management accept no liability for patrons who die of fright while watching this performance! +++++begin video Lilith steps forwards, drawing one of her Desert Eagle automatics. She thumbs off the safety, and raises it to aim directly at Lynch's face: the muzzle of the .44 is enormous, her blue eyes almost dead above it... Suddenly she is whirling, the lifelessness gone from her eyes, to shoot pointblank at the magician. Bright flares of magical energy soak up the bullets, though he seems surprised for an instant. A veritable storm of flashes hides his torso, as Lynch fires the MP-5K, and suddenly Blade and Quinn are in the doorway firing as well. The Elf's spell still holds as everyone runs out of ammunition. "Well, well, well. Four gun-happy fools. Though I see the suggestions and controls we planted all those years ago don't really hold any more. Well done, Lilith. You actually decieved me for a few moments. Now, though, all of you will die." He raises his hand, points at Lilith, and she is suddenly enveloped in the same nauseous yellow fire that dropped Lynch: yet it nowhere seems to touch her skin. Quinn cackles happily, reloading her Smith and Wesson. "Never take what an enemy shows you as true, Nar'moha'ch. You still haven't learned that lesson." "And you, little coyote, have yet to learn MANNERS!" Yellow fumes coalesce out of the air, swirling around Quinn and clinging to her body. Quinn raises her hands, throwing them out in a traditional dramatic spellcaster's style, and lightning crackles from her hands to smash into the Elf - his hair suddenly on end, as the yellow mist vanishes and Quinn closes, rummaging in a pocket for something - a water pistol, that she aims and fires. The water catches fire in mid-air, splashing the Elven sorcerer's robes and setting them afire. Roaring with pain and anger, he draws a knife and slashes at his arm, and a searing pinpoint of sick yellow fire flies at Quinn - who catches it and crushes it. "Try again. Try harder!" The Elf raises the knife, clenches his teeth and hacks down savagely. This time, the point of light smashes into Quinn and throws her across the room, as the severed hand falls to the floor. As he steps forward to finish her, the three mercenaries open fire, and he turns on them, snarling. "Bullet barrier!" snaps Lynch, as all of their fire is still ineffective. "Bullets, knives, grenades, nothing you have can harm me!" laughs the Elf, as once again his enemies empty their weapons against his defences. "No weapon held by human hands can hurt me!" Lilith holsters both smoking Desert Eagles. "Oh? Then I guess we're really fucked." As she finishes her sentence, her clothing vanishes, yet for only an instant is a nude (and extraordinarily beautiful) woman standing there, as her muzzle elongates, spotted fur springs out over her skin, her spine curls, and suddenly a huge dappled cat is launching itself at the Elf. He has time for a strangled scream as the leopard crashes against him, biting for his throat. As he rolls over, desperately struggling - handicapped by his missing hand - you see Lilith's jaws locked on his chin and her hind claws raking at his stomach, then suddenly he is gone with a faint 'pop', leaving the leopard on its back, kicking at empty air with a look of almost comical surprise. Quinn picks herself up, shaking her head. "Ouch. That hurt." Lilith gets to her feet, looks around as if daring anyone to challenge her, then sits and spits out a lump of flesh before she begins meticulously washing and grooming her face, removing the smears of blood in the fur. Her long tail - as long as her body, tipped with white - lashes gently. Blade stares at the big cat. "That's a..." "Leopard. Panthera pardus. Well, actually panthera pardus/homo sapiens sapiens/ mutabilis. The taxonomy is still trying to catch up." says Quinn, as she picks up the chunk of torn flesh - you see teeth and realise Lilith bit off much of his chin and lower jaw, including part of his tongue. Quinn waves a hand over her trophy and it is suddenly frozen. "Now I got you whenever I want you, asshole." Lilith smirks: the leopard's eyes are the same deep blue as hers, and watching it you realise many of its mannerisms and even expressions seem similar. Once she is satisfied that she has washed the Elf's blood off, she stretches and the stretch continues into a transformation, the leopard suddenly a woman again, her clothes reappearing once the change is complete. They have been washed, ironed, and apparently starched, and the boots brightly polished to a high gloss. "Quinn, you said you'd fixed that part of the spell." "No, I fixed the bug that changed your cocktail dress into a French maid's uniform." chuckles Quinn. Lilith deliberately scuffs the toecaps. "There. You are a real bitch, you know?" "Yeah, yeah. You okay?" Quinn "He thought the conditioning would still hold. I'm a good actress. Jason, what about you?" Lilith is still shaken. Lynch, for the first time, examines himself: clothing quite badly scorched. "I'm okay. Lucky I was soaking wet. Is that fire thing down?" "I killed it to get in. Along with two elementals he threw at us. The guy always did like to get baroque." replies Quinn. "Oh, yeah! Anyone need a hand?" She picks up the severed appendage, freezes it too. "Uh, excuse me?" says Blade. "Now, I'm a reasonable guy, but would someone please tell me just what the Hell is going on? Who was that? Do you know him? How did she do the leopard thing? Where did her clothes go? Are we going to get out of here?" "Lessee... " says Quinn, loading fat brass cases into her Model 29. "He's called Dr Narmac, though he goes by lots of names. Used to work for the Agency when they were bad guys. When they became good guys he ran off to the Tir, except he'd been working for Aztlan all along it turned out. We know him pretty well, he's a nasty guy. Lilith's a shapeshifter. I quickened a spell on her to handle her clothes, except sometimes funny things happen to them. And we ought to be leaving, like, now. Happy?" "Not until we're out of here." replies Blade. "Let's go." Lynch pauses by the computer room, entering and rapidly opening cabinets: removing memory modules and processor units, stuffing them into a rucksack. Emerging, he hands the rucksack to Quinn, who passes him a roll of prepared demolition charges: Blade is already laying them in the lab opposite the computer room, where you recognise the squat forms of two PAB machines. "What about the guys in the cells?" Quinn winces. "He used two of them to power that big barrier spell. The others... just blow the equipment. Don't drop the roof. I don't think they're safe to let out, but we don't want to kill them. "Deal." Lynch starts planting charges in the mainframe. "Where did the Doc go? And how did he do that?" "The how's no big deal, a friend of mine does those. Where, who knows? Probably some bolthole he'd prepared. He's going to be a sick puppy for a long time, though. We hurt him pretty bad." Quinn watches with interest as Lynch finishes setting the explosives. "Time?" "Yeah, keep it simple. Five minutes. Let's go." Outside, the rain is slackening off. Tangent's team are deployed in a defensive formation, and several buildings are burning despite the rain. A dozen or so men and women, mostly in civilian clothes, sit miserably under Static's watchful gaze. "Any problems?" asks Tangent. "Nothing we couldn't handle." replies Lynch, walking over to where he left his sniper rifle. "We have a defector, too. Meet Pedro. Pedro, meet Tangent." "We had no idea you had recruited so many allies." Tepanohoutec bows slightly to Tangent, who nods back. "What's the big picture, Lynch?" "Let's see." Lynch brings up the datalinked AWACS feed again. "Two fighers from Acapulco, en route, ETA forty minutes. Eight behind them, classify as four transports, four fighters. No surface contacts. The edge of the eye is about a klick away and headed this way, it'll be here in about five minutes if it doesn't change direction. Our Mistral is orbiting inside, clear air." "It won't change direction." says Quinn smugly. "How do you know?" retorts Lilith, challengingly. "Tropical storms change direction without warning and move randomly. You can't be sure-" "You can if you ask the storm spirit politely." Lilith mutters something that might be an affectionate "Bitch!", then "Has anyone got any cigarettes? Mine are soaked, look." She thrusts the soggy pack at Quinn. "If your magic was any use at all you'd dry these out for me." Quinn just cackles happily. Lynch offers her one, and they wait: time passing, while a minor concussion shakes the ground underfoot and the winds slacken. "How long are we in the clear for?" asks Lilith, as the rain stops altogether. Looking up, Lynch sees a solid wall of cloud, ending abruptly at starry sky. "Twenty, thirty minutes." replies Quinn. "She'll turn back if she has to, though." It takes a moment to realise Quinn's talking about the storm. "Okay. Please don't distract me for a few minutes." says Lilith, as you hear the faint whine of turboprop engines. Even with augmented vision, the Mistral only becomes visible as it flares for its final approach and the landing lights flick on. It touches on the gravel and immediately the engines roar to full power in reverse thrust, the aircraft pulling to a slow taxi in a very short run. Lilith looks smug. "Land on a postcard, take off using just the stamp." she says, smirking. "Showoff." grins Quinn. "Tangent? Want a ride?" calls Lynch. Tangent shakes his head. "Storm's too bumpy. We'll go back with V-12's guys: got more room in the subs now. See you back at the ranch." Lynch nods and waves as he breaks into a run towards the Mistral. +++++end video Was that exciting or what? Oh, yeah, we all got home okay, Lilith's a shit hot pilot as she has to remind us all the time and the storm was just entertaining. I didn't ask her - the storm, that is to shake the plane up a bit extra, honestly. Even if I did, I got Teppy a sick bag in time, so there wasn't a problem. The Aztlan fighters never saw us, we had the god's eye view so we could route right around them. Lilith said she could have closed and taken them, but she would say that anyway. Shame about Narmac, but we'll kill him next time. Oh well. ]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <17:10:43/05-03-57> *****Private: Kor >>>>>[Money is not important. I don't know you Kor. There are things going on here and you may or may not be involved in them. Mako is...evil for lack of a better term. I don't know, you could be one of them. I have no way of telling over Shadowland. Better to be cautious then trust anyone I don't know already. If your working with him and your not one of them, cut your losses and hide. If you are one of them then your a target and I'll get you sooner or later. Those are my thoughts.]<<<<< -- Orion ***** PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[Threats. I really hate it when people threaten me when I wanted was a bit of information. You have no reason to fear me. I am, for all intents and purposes, retired from running and have no problems with you, if you have none with me. Im more than willing to get together with you to discuss this if you have the time. One on one, you can pick the place. If money is of no use to you, then maybe an information bartering can be arranged. Either way, let me know.]<<<<< -- Kor <18:29:27 / 05-03-57> *****PRIVATE:[a--i--s] at [Mission_Impossible] >>>>>[Well, you folks _do_ got a flare fo tha dramatic, I must say. I don't reckon any o' our stuff's all that interestin' by comparison, unless you like water-pressha an' wind speed traces. No obstacles underwater, no need fo' that airborne backup, an' no beef from eitha nation's military forces. Glad you liked th' ASROCs...those things be mo' useful than all th' streetwalkas in Soapland. An' probably smarter too. Best info from our electronics overwatch is that no EM got out beyond th' original strike. "Plausible deniability" be one hella poor way t' protect folks, ain't it? Pleasure workin' wif you folks, an' I'm glad you enjoyed th'voyage. ]<<<<< -- V-12 <11:15:37 / 05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: AlexandriaN >>>>>[ +++++engage Velveteen.sigma Man...I been in on some easy-ass shit, but that was simply textbook. I does _not_ 'spect to get away wif that too often. Only complication was th'storm, an' your gear be as good'z ever. I'll send you th' tactical traces wif th' next shipment o' stuff. Looks like th' world be safe fo' democracy again. Or some such nonsense. Hm. By tha way, I still donno what t'make of Lynch. He gots _good_ skillz an' lots o' experience showin', but I cain't say his gusto'z all that safe a thing. I'ont know that many folks who joke aroun' right at they target's do-step, though these folks got enough sense that it didn't go fuutha dan dat. Handle wif caution'z what I call it. +++++disengage Velveteen.sigma ]<<<<< -- V-12 <11:26:34 / 05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: V-12 >>>>>[ +++++engage Velveteen.sigma My feelings exactly. I just hope he pulls it together before it's too late. As for the "field test", I think your sponsors will be quite pleased with the validation of their latest batch of toys. Several people have been waiting for outside data on those ASROCs; now I can get them off my back. =) Also, it's good to see that you folks aren't letting those subs rust too quickly. In any event, here's some direct gratitude: +++++authorization <> That "accounting error" will go unnoticed for only 24 hours, so you'll want to grab it before too much time elapses. =) I'll be in touch. +++++disengage Velveteen.sigma ]<<<<< -- AlexandriaN <11:49:38 / 05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: Lynch >>>>>[ +++++engage Kotobazukai I just finished reading through the report. Excellent work on the base. I suppose the remaining problems now are Tepanohoutec and Zicahuata. Will you be remanding the good Colonel to the State for protection and a discrete debriefing? As far as Zicahuata is concerned, I have managed to uncover some evidence of tampering with communications between him and the Pyramid (no mean feat as I'm sure you can appreciate). If you are resolved to eliminate him, the time must be _very_ soon before he gets recalled into the Aztlani bureaucracy. +++++disengage Kotobazukai ]<<<<< -- AlexandriaN <11:59:33 / 05-03-57> ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[I am only threatening you if you belong to Yokiu or are one of their hired goons. If you work for Mako then it's better that I kill you then he gets you. I have all the reason in the world to fear you. I don't know you and that means you could be part of Mako's little club. You probably are not one of Mako's goons because he would not try such a simple trick. OK. I'll be back and name a place. Don't even think I'll come alone and if I so much as sense one Mako's things you and them are toast.]<<<<< -- Orion ***** PRIVATE: Imp >>>>>[Hurry up with that information. I've been in contact with Orion and I am preparing to set up a meet. This is looking like an unhappy situation.]<<<<< -- Kor <19:25:33 / 05-03-57> ***** PRIVATE: GoD, Griffyn >>>>>[Are the both of you up for bodyguard duty? I need to go on a meet sometime in the near future. I do not with to have my body harmed, if you know what I meen. I need to both of you to look me over with a fine toothed comb. I might have something or someone following me through astral space. I'd like to make sure. My meeting will likely involved a 5 man team, one is a sniper, the others will, Im going to assume, be mages of some sort. I dont want trouble, but I do want someone there to direct DocWagon if I go down. Yes, I know this is stupid, but I cannot sit idly by while innocent people are sent to their slaughter...certainly not by my hand.]<<<<< -- Kor <19:27:14 / 05-03-57> ***** PRIVATE: Neuron Basher >>>>>[Imp might be tossing stuff you way from me. Its clean. Get it done if you can.]<<<<< -- Kor <19:27:16 / 05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor, GoD >>>>>[ I'm up for it. We could Quicken a Bullet-Barrier to you for the meet .. at least that would help with the sniper. The rest, we can deal with as need arises. ]<<<<< -- Griffyn <15:59:16/05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[ How deep do you want me to go? Imp said that it wasn't worth much risk, so not to frag around with anything dangerous. How important is this? ]<<<<< -- Neuron Basher <16:00:46/05-03-57> *****Private: Morgue >>>>>[Morgue, I was able to obtain copies of some of the prelim reports concerning the Yokui hit. Homicide and Corp Division are still trying to piece together why the attack was made and by who. I don't think they want the Mayor to go on another "Crime is at an all time high!" tirades. Here's the file. +++Include: Forensics File#3178 I hope this helps some. With the kind of firepower used on this one, they've either got to be sloppy or confident. Confidence usually precedes big players, so watch yourself.]<<<<< -- Det. Burns (15:03:55/05-03-57) *****Private: Det. Sarah Burns >>>>>[Thank you for the report. If you hear anything else that I should know about, especially anything that is being suppressed or has the upstairs people worried. Let me know right away. You can reach me at this phone number: >encrypted<.]<<<<< -- Morgue (15:05:44/05-03-57) *****Private: Imp, Kor, Edge, and Gohei >>>>>[I have acquired some preliminary forensics information concerning the latest assassination. This is courtesy of the Lone Star Forensics Division and the consultation of an armorer contact. Orion appears to be using a customized variant of the Barrett Heavy Sniper Rifle bored for larger caliber rounds. The rounds fired upon the Nightsky were 20mm HEAP rounds, definitely not available on the common market. The rounds are too large for magazine-fed receiver, so instead it probably has a 1-3 shot capacity. My armorer only knows of a handful of people that could have manufactured this gun, and one of them is a resident of Seattle: Chun. Chun is a top quality armorer that works out of northern Puyallup. He is very well connected with the local Seoulpa Rings and has several allies in the Yakuza, specifically the Daikazu Clan. The attack included a magical strike in addition to Orion's sniper fire. A single powerful spell consisting of 2 stacked fireballs was used, but the mage was smart enough to use a sterilize spell before leaving the scene, so no astral signature was left. The complication and power of the stacked fireballs strongly suggests an initiated mage, but there was physical evidence of a fetich focus used in the attack. Lone Star's current stance is that the assassination was performed by a rival corporate hit team resulting from corporate frictions. Similar assassinations have been carried out by Orion against Mitsuhama, Renraku, Lone Star, Universal Brotherhood, and Seattle Government execs. Some of them involved strikes on corporate vehicles, and some involved a follow-up magical attack. Lone Star is no longer investigating those homicides however. This information provides little more than additional background and peripheral advancements, except for Chun. I have already established a surveillance presence at Chun's residency which includes remote videa and audio feed and a tracking signal on his GMC Bulldog Stepvan. I was planning on continuing the surveillance and infiltrating the location later tonight. I could integrate some additional support at that stage. I would highly advise against making an unprepared attack on Orion. Admittedly, if we wait too long then the target could become appraised of our interest, but Orion is not someone to whom danger is new. Gohei, the hit at Underground 93 is a possibility, but it would be premature to establish a strike point there yet. Kor, I have a feeling that you could find yourself dead if you are not careful. Orion would rather eliminate a potential threat than humor a potential ally.]<<<<< -- Morgue (15:54:25/05-03-57) ***** PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind >>>>>[oh that is fine, I did not mean to appear impatient. I was simply checking that the mail had got through. The Yokiu footage caught my eye because it invovled high power fire magic, call it a professional interest. You tend to notice big bangs in your field of expertise]<<<<< -- Dirk Vincent <08:49:41/05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Neuron Basher >>>>>[Ill give it to you the way I see things, you can take it from there. Im going through the prelims for taking a job. I was getting bored so I check into a "now hiring" post sent out by someone using the name, Mako. I dont think we've met the person yet, but he set up a meeting between all the others involved (this is where Imp came in. I didnt know he was going to be involved. Was a little tense at first, didnt now if he was going to let on to the fact that I was operating under a disguise spell). We all met, and decided we COULD work together and THEN got more information about what needed to be done. Clean and simple liquidation. Target: Orion. A sniper. +++++ Include description +++++ Include updated description I've gotten a couple of messages recently that make me feel like I am being set up, or that we all are being set up. You know me well enough, I dont take a job unless its clean cut, very few reprecussions to come of it. This doesnt feel that way. I want information on Mako, and this Yokiu (?) corp. I'd like more information on my team members. They arent corp, and that scares me. I've set up a meeting with the mark, I hope tonight. He's spouted off a couple times about "them" and "they" which can either be that he is totally insane himself (delusional) or that there really is something more behind his Mako person that needs to be looked at before allowing myself to be the instrument of possibly one of few who might know the truth. I have no problems with walking away from a run that feels bad, I havent taken any money, signed no contracts. If that is to be the case, let it.]<<<<< -- Kor <20:45:30 / 05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: Mako >>>>>[Please, Mako, moderate your language. I will contact Kor as you say. As for you... to contact a potential employee, then forget them, does not indicate professionalism, and to offer abuse compounds the poor first impression thus made. Doubtless an unfortunate coincidence, and almost certainly you are in fact far wiser and better-organised than your actions to date indicate.]<<<<< -- Easy <18:50:42/05-03-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Mako said he was hiring. I contacted him. He said 'wait'. I waited. I asked him what was going on. He called me a fool and said to contact you, in that order. Hopefully that's the end of it. Hopefully he's brighter than he seems so far. I solve problems. Usually permanently. Do you need any extra help?]<<<<< -- Easy <18:54:24/05-03-57> *****Private: Kor >>>>>[I have done a little checking on you Kor. I will meet with you, the place and time are >encrypted<. You have nothing to fear but I suspect you will bring back-up any way. We both know what will happen should this be anymore then just a discussion. In other words I won't kill you if you don't kill me. See ya soon.]<<<<< -- Orion ***** PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[Casual. I will be bringing a total of 3 people, including myself. I give you this information to put you more at ease, rather than to make you more nervous. Two friends. Both are mages. Just to keep thing on an even keel. They both know that I too do not wish to have any problems and will not initiate any save to pull my body out of the line of fire. Pre-emptive strikes have been forbidden. I will be there.]<<<<< -- Kor <00:13:15 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Trax, Akira, Skuff, DogBoy >>>>>[Sigh -- can you guys be on call tonight. Im getting in, again, over my head. Ill be meeting at >encrypted< with a potential friend. I hope it becomes friendly, but I am not holding my breath. I dont think it will come down to blows. If it does, I want to come out of it alive. No matter what. Get the truck and stay within 2 minutes of me. I already have astal overwatch in place. Danke. There will be hazard pay.]<<<<< -- Kor <00:15:45 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Easy >>>>>[You will have to forgive Mako. He seems to be under a bit of stress these days. This job seems to be over no little importance to him and I would imagine if he has any people in place to see who is watching the watchmen, he will know that there are some who are as curious about him as he is about us. This is the deal -- you are the wild card right now. We know nothing at all about you and you have not yet met with the rest of the team. I would like to have a meeting with you...say...tomorrow, with everyone else present. Forgive us for putting through a trial by fire, but, due to the sensative nature of this job, we need to make sure that a wildcard doesnt cause us problems. Will this be fine with you? Im already assuming that it will be ok with everyone else, so, tell me what your specialty is, so that I may direct your energies in the right direction.]<<<<< -- Kor <00:23:27 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Mako, Easy +++++ [Purged] I'd like to set up a meeting tomorrow with the rest of the team to intruduce you to another team member (or potential). It seem that he was unable to make the initial meeting but was to be included in the original deal. Is that ok with everyone?]<<<<< -- Kor <00:25:31 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Your encryption sucked -- I resent the message to Imp, Gohei, and Morgue from you, with the same time stamp. You need to be more careful with that. How did your meeting go or have you not yet left?]<<<<< -- Priest <00:25:33 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Gohei, Morgue, Imp >>>>>[+++++ Include Mako-Message +++++ Shunt Output +++++ Initiate Persona Change +++++ Initiate Date Change]<<<<< -- Kor <00:25:31 / 05-04-57> ***** Private: Kor >>>>>[I'll baby sit]<<<<< -- GoD <21:29:16/05-03-57> ***** Internal: Kor contact point >>>>>[ Hi, I deem an interview wise. Gohei[<<<<< -- Gohei <21:04:57/05-03-57> *****Internal: Morgue, Imp, Kor, and Edge Contact points >>>>>[ Morgue's report strengthens my belief that the target sould be taken from afar, by suprise. Sucess first, honor afterward. Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei (21:18:32/05-03-57) ***** Internal: Morgue contact point >>>>>[Perhaps I am mistaken, I had thought that you wished to make the shot as your contribution to the group effort. Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei <21:41:32/05-03-57> >>>>>[Is that Mako as in the fish, or the Japanese porn?]<<<<< -- Jen and Gabe <01:28:32/05-04-57> *****PRIVATE: AlexandriaN >>>>>[+++++engage Kotobazukai Tepanohoutec wanted out because he (a) disagreed with Manchu from beginning to end, yet was still made responsible for it, and (b) lost control of it: the good Doctor (who Lilith and I have personal and painful prior experience of) took over control, leaving Pedro holding the baby. The Colonel's as smart as anyone, and knows that these together spelt "designated scapegoat" when things went to ratshit. I don't have a problem with his pragmatism, because I know he means it. He's a man of some honour, believe it or not. And yes, he's vanishing into the system for major debriefing. Quite a coup. Zicahuata... I'll take care of Zicahuata. He'll either be captured or dead by lunchtime tomorrow. Many thanks for your help. Please pass my commendations to V-12, he and his team performed superbly: he may say it was nothing difficult, but accurate position and depth keeping at periscope depth in a minisub, in a Force Eight, is impressive as hell as a peacetime exercise let alone on operations. His people's marksmanship was equally impressive. Would you object to my offering his team employment directly in future? (or others, if things don't go well over the next few days)? +++++disengage Kotobazukai]<<<<< -- Lynch <00:24:43/05-04-57> *****PRIVATE:[a--i--s] at [Mission_Impossible] >>>>>[V-12, Tangent, thank you very much. Your teams performed superbly. There were a lot of things that could have gone wrong, and being so far from anywhere meant a problem could have become a disaster very rapidly indeed. Ryuga, thank you for the information you provided: AlexandriaN, for co-ordinating. This message is being forwarded to AIS HQ in Tenochitilan, so anyone I missed out better say know or they won't get their turn at being chased and hunted forever My thanks and my congratulations.]<<<<< -- Lynch <00:34:32/05-04-57> *****PRIVATE: D J H Coppinger, Director SIGA >>>>>[Clipperton down, boss. Doctor Death was there. We have genetic material - a hand and a chunk of face - if you think it'll do any good. He's been learning blood magic, though, he took the hand off himself. Tepanohoutec defected. The place is totalled and we got most of the data. In short, a good day's work. Zicahuata's pretty isolated now and I'm going to take him out while I still know where he is. Should get to him tomorrow morning. One point of note: V-12's outfit have hefty corporate backing, like we're surprised, but this might narrow it down some. +++++include data: submarine.analysis +++++include data: missile.analysis +++++include data: sensor.analysis Good gear for a 'freelance' outfit, no? Sasha would _kill_ for the land-based equivalents. Something for the analysts to play with, anyway.]<<<<< -- Lynch <00:38:43/05-04-57> ****Private: Kor, Gohei, Imp >>>>>[A breif meeting with this new arrival would be acceptable. I have not seen evidence that we would need an additional operative, but perhaps he will prove useful or interesting. Make sure you set up the meeting on friednly territory. He could be working with Orion or other parties.]<<<<< -- Morgue (11:49:22/05-04-57) *****PRIVATE: Lynch >>>>>[ +++++engage Kotobazukai The longer you stay in this business, the more you realize that pragmatism is the dominant factor in these dealings. As far as Zicahuata is concerned, good hunting and be careful; I don't think his sort of person is very beneficial to maintaining the peace. As for V-12, his crew is independent and I claim no right to be their personal receptionist. =) I might caution you that firepower such as was displayed at Clipperton is expensive and possibly hard to come by; for some reasonc certain pieces of equipment become easier to lay hands on when their manufacturers are directly interested in a mission. Until next time +++++disengage Kotobazukai ]<<<<< -- AlexandriaN <12:00:10 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Anyone can make a mistake, as I have proved myself in the past. When and where would you like to meet? I have no problems with that. My specialities are physical combat, either up close or long range. You might call me a samurai, except I have fewer qualms. I do undercover well, but I have the problem of being attractive, Elven, female, and somewhat quick to respond to unwelcome attentions to any of those. This may prejudice my chances of working with you, but if it should cause a problem and screw the run it's my rep (such as it is) in the crapper too.]<<<<< -- Easy <10:47:53/05-04-57> *****PRIVATE: Commander Drake >>>>>[Commander? We just had a drive-by dumping. Two people in a green Americar, kicked a third out by HQ's south gate. The guy's tranked, got a gunshot wound to the hand, cuffed foot and ankle, and there's a note tied round his neck on a ribbon - "Merry Christmas, Drake - Jason Lynch." What do we do with him?]<<<<< -- IPAgDIS-SB <21:32:46/05-04-57> *****PRIVATE: Valentine >>>>>[Gyrem Books has seen fit to open an account in Haven's name. It i+ only for a f%w thousand nuyen, but we hope it will allow Haven to expa~d it's lib*ary of tex!s for the coming acadmic ter_. +++++Include Encrypted Document: Account.information]<<<<< -- Righ!eous and [REDACTED] at [a] >>>>[Another 20,000 =Y= have been removed from our local accounts. This makes for almost 100,000 =Y= over the past four months. We have completed four internal security sweeps so far, and nothing has turned up yet.]<<<<< -- Jamie Alverez <16:37:32/05-04-57> Sheppard-Intrepid Financial Director Seattle Div. *****INTERNAL: Sheppard-Intepid TO: Jamie Alverez >>>>>[Thankyou for bringing this up. There is no mention of these incidents in my predecessor's logs, although I have seen the correspondence between yourself and he regarding this issue. I am authorizing the transfer of six sec. agents to the Seattle Financial core. Good luck. And happy hunting.]<<<<< -- Anne Driscol <16:37:32/05-04-57> Sheppard-Intrepid Internal Security Director North American Division *****INTERNAL: Dogpatch Archive >>>>>[+++++begin video "Are you sure this is a good idea?" asks Blade. "No." grins Lynch, his sunglasses reflecting the flame as he lights a cigarette. "But it's gonna be fun." "You certain you want to wait so long for your backup? Maybe I should go in with you-" "Stick to the plan." Lynch draws on the Marlboro, flexes his shoulders. "Don't bother, Blade, I already tried." Lilith seems tense as she drives. "He's annoyingly determined at times. Especially when it's going to kill him." The car pulls up and Lynch gets out, Lilith pulling away as soon as he's clear. The building front reads "BEECH CONSULTING - Engineering Tomorrow's Solutions Today" together with a prettily meaningless symbol some graphic designer probably earned a month's pay for concocting. Lynch - black trenchcoat, black jeans, black shades - walks in through the double doors, hands in pockets, the two uniformed guards and the (male) receptionist looking around as he enters. "Can I help you, sir?" "Take a message. Tell Major Zicahuta that Jason Lynch says 'Julius Caesar', Act Three, scene one, line 273." "I beg your pardon?" The guards are discreetly reaching for their holstered sidearms. "No, that's earlier in the play. The line is, 'Cry "Havoc!", and let slip the dogs of War.'" The nearer guard has his pistol clear as Lynch's kick crushes his larynx. The other is still fumbling with his holster snap as Lynch fires into his chest and head four times - using his pair of Predators, both silenced - then shoots the receptionist once through the forehead as he is reaching into a desk drawer. "Leopards. No literature, no imagination." mutters Lynch, stubbing out his cigar and checking behind the reception desk: there's a panicbutton, but it doesn't seem to have been pushed. The drawer holds a Guardian machine pistol, no alarm. "Lilith,anything on the alarms?" "Mani says no unusual activity, but he can't see much of their system." "What the hell. Watch and tell me if you see anything coming in. Receptionist went for a gun instead of an alarm, looks like. Leopards." "Stop dissing leopards, Jason." "These guys don't deserve the name. Predictable, no imagination, too confident. Means they get fewer chances to demonstrate their skill, good as it may be." Lynch vaults the reception turnstile. "And with only six in the building right now..." "Plus the usual staff. You should let us come in now." "The place is kinked backwards, I'll bet, and Drake is either getting live feed or will have the whole footage made accessible. Don't give him grounds to come after you." Lynch moves calmly down a corridor, guns ready. "So we'll come in disguise. You should have said! Always have to play the fragging hero." "So? This is personal and right now I don't have much to lose. If I don't come out, your backup plan involves V-12 and a stick of 500-pound GBU-12s. Take no chances and no prisoners." "We'll discuss this when you come out, Jason. In my office. Officially. And you *will* wear a suit." You hear a cackling laugh in the background that can only be Quinn. "This may become a disciplinary hearing." "Never knew you cared so much, Lieutenant DiAnnio." "Fuck you, Jason." "You already did." "And cut this 'nothing to lose', crap. You, maybe. I have you to lose. I don't want to." "Really?" A whisper of movement, and Lynch turns smoothly: a smartly-suited man is stepping out of a doorway, a cup of coffee in one hand. "Excuse me? Sir, are you-" His words tail off as he stares into the bulky silencer and he drops the coffee. "Turn around." The suit does, and something small hits him in the back, buzzing and sparking: he falls, spasming and jerking. Lynch continues down the corridor. "Comms tech. Rinaldo, if Tangent's pics are right. Tasered, no problem." "No problem? Lynch, two Stallions just lifted off the Pyramid." "ETA?" "Nine minutes." "Jurassic timescales." Lynch moves, fast and smooth, through a door: the room is jammed with communication gear, and one woman lounging in a chair wearing headphones with her back to Lynch. Lynch hesitates a moment, focuses on the Leopard tattoo on the woman's arm, shoots her in the back of the head. "Four down, five to go. How's Tangent doing at the safehouse?" "Gave a contact report and stayed off the air. Probably kicking ass and taking names. We could take the Stallions down as they come in -" "Over this area? You kidding? Drop ten tons of dural and burning JP-8 into a residential district? No thanks. I'll be out or dead by then." Lynch has reached a stairwell, moves up it. "You know, I think they don't have internal cameras. Or if they do they don't monitor them." "Probably the desk guy's job. He had the monitors. You are dense sometimes, Jason." "Smartass spotty cat." mutters Lynch. "Keep this up and I won't ask you to marry me." "Won't what?" Lilith's voice sounds shocked. "Marry me. You know, take this oversize house cat to be your lawful wedded wife- " "Cut the housecat! I am not a house cat!" "House-trained, at least, I hope." Lynch, one Predator covering up the stairs and the other pointed behind him, ignores the first-floor door and continues upwards. "You are not getting round me like that! I'm still angry with you. And yes." "Yes what?" "YES, I'LL MARRY YOU! Thank the Gods there isn't an IQ test for marriage or they'd never let you do it." Lynch pauses by the door, unscrews the silencers, takes a deep breath. "Moving onto the top floor. Probably be too busy to talk. I love you." He shuts the radio link off before Lilith can reply. The door flies open, and Lynch is moving sideways even before automatic gunfire smashes it apart into splinters of construction plastic. The view from his thumb camera shows four Leopards using doorways for cover, and Lynch pulls the pins on two grenades and throws them, follows them with two more. The first pair explode with the shattering blast of concussion grenades, the others with the coughing report of gas. Lynch is through the door, firing at the one Leopard still on her feet, blowing the woman backwards in a spray of blood and cordite smoke. He advances rapidly, firing double-taps into the other three as he passes them (one unconscious, one coughing and crawling, one blindly fumbling for his SMG). "One and one to go." he mutters to himself, as he checks the first door - the room is an office, and empty, and as he turns he suddenly collapses sideways and the sound of the shot is very large in his ears. Lynch brings up one Predator and rapid-fires it, the bullets blowing big holes through the light internal wall: someone cries out in pain or alarm, as Lynch holsters the empty pistol and picks up the other he'd dropped, doing the same again: no more sounds greet the hail of fire. He hauls himself to his feet, still only using his left hand, and draws his stainless-steel Python: thumbing back the hammer of the old revolver, he advances on the bullet-riddled doorway, kicks it and steps aside. A fusillade of shots rings out, hitting the opposite wall and nothing else: Lynch, crouched, leans out and as his view takes in a wounded Leopard, fires twice. "Just you and me now, Zicky-baby." whispers Lynch, checking the room is clear before looking at his right arm: soaked in blood from the bicep down. He flexes his fingers experimentally, winces. "Sonofabitch. Okay. What would Zicky-boy do now? He'd..." Lynch leans against the wall, closes his eyes. The background noises - the air conditioning, the traffic outside - fade out, and you hear a faint voice. A display in Lynch's sight flashes a bearing and range, as the words become distinct. "...urgent! I need to speak to Commander Drake, now! Jason Lynch is here in my building! No, this isn't a joke! Put me through, or I will lose you your job! I said-" Zicahuata's voice tails off, as Lynch steps through the door into his office, raises the .357 and blows the telephone into fragments. "Well, Major - no, Colonel, congratulations - Jose Zicahuata. You're under arrest. You have-" Zicahuata brings up a small pistol and fires, four shots cracking out before the Tiffani clicks empty, Lynch lurching back. "Ouch. Been charged with espionage, conspiracy to traffic in controlled chipware, conspiracy to murder-" Zicahuata reaches for his desk - spare ammunition?- and Lynch shoots him through the hand. "-Stop that. Conspiracy to corruption of law enforcement officers, and other charges that may be laid as found necessary." "Oh, forget this charade, Lynch." Zicahuata clutches his bleeding hand. "Either kill me or let me go. Don't waste my time with this 'arrest' foolishness. Put me on trial, by all means. We'll call you as witness, humiliate your government on the stand, rub everyone's noses in SIGA's dirt. And I'll be acquitted, and go home to medals and promotion." "You think so?" Lynch regards Jose "There's nothing you have that will stick. You have no admissible proof. In fact, we can countersue." "Good. Take it up with Commander Drake. I'm turning you over to him." Zicahuata laughs. "Drake, the legalist? Then I'm completely safe, Lynch, and all your efforts are in vain. He'll arrest you, release me, and hand you over to my custody. That's what his law says he has to do. Drake is a delight, Lynch, so easily manipulated and controlled." "I'm sure." Lynch grabs Zicahuata, pulls him across the desk and throws him to the ground. "Meanwhile, for once I'm going to play the legal game. Manchu's a ruin. Your Elven mind-control specialist is missing half his face. You're blown wide open. I think I can live with letting you get away, a known, photographed, ID-tested, blood-sample-on-file secret agent. Counts as a success. And I get to show Drake I don't go killing everyone in sight just for the hell of it." Lynch fires the taser, slaps handcuffs on Zicahuata. "Lilith, how we doing?" "Lynch! You sonofa- Forget that, move it! Star in ninety seconds, Aztechnology helos in two minutes!" "Roger that." Lynch hauls the still-paralysed Aztlan down the corridor, hits the elevator callbutton. The doors open at once and they ride down to the tinny strains of Handel's Water Music. Lilith's car screeches to a halt outside the building as Lynch drags Zicahuata outside. "Where's Quinn and Blade?" "Delaying the cops. Illusion spells and the they-went-thataway routine. We have thirty seconds, maybe less-" The tyres squeal as she lays rubber, the back end fishtailing. "What the hell are you doing with him?" "Turn left here and slow down. Let's not attract attention." Lynch reaches into the semiconscious Zicahuata's mouth, pulls hard: shifts his grip and pulls again, a bloodied molar coming away. He throws it out of the window into the bed of a pickup truck. "Boogie-woogie, motherfucker." "You don't have to tell me how to drive, Jason. Remember, I am the pilot here. Now, would you like to explain a little? If it's not asking too much?" Her voice is dangerously polite. "Explain what?" asks Lynch. "Why have you brought Zicahuata out? He's bleeding all over my car." "So am I. And it's not your car, it belongs to some rental company who didn't fit a decent alarm." "You didn't answer the question. Why is he in the car instead of dead?" "Because we're heading for Special Branch HQ. You know where it is?" Lynch lights a cigarette and begins reloading his Python. "Jason, this guy can afford the best lawyer in the world." Lilith does, though, turn the car. "You think he's even going to get charged? And what if they arrest you?" "Maybe, maybe not. Maybe Drake's gotten to me." Lynch takes off the coat, studies his arm ruefully, starts cleaning and dressing the messy exit wound. "Maybe this is important to me. And we're not going to stop long enough to be arrested." "Are you all right?" "One in the arm. Four in the chest, but Zicky-boy's a desk agent and forgot needle won't pierce armour. Ho ho bloody ho. Nothing I can't handle. Tangent?" "Off target, no casualties, Leopards all down and restrained. No fatalities. InterPol informed." "Outstanding. I owe him a beer or few." They drive in silence for a while, Lynch's hearing busy with police radio chatter. "Nobody got a make on the car." "I'm not surprised. Quinn disguised it." says Lilith. "Oh. Good. Want a cigarette?" "Yes. Please." Zicahuata groans. "Shut up." says Lynch calmly, snapping cuffs onto his ankles and a slap patch on his neck as Lilith slows. "This is as close as I can get safely. Even here, we're too close to a checkpoint..." "It'll do. Turn the car, make like a lost tourist." "Great. If this were Miami I'd be happy. I could use a firefight right now. How come you get all the fun?" "Because you're still on the sick list with your screwed-up back and you're meant to be driving a desk in DC." As the car finishes its turn, Lynch opens the door and kicks Zicahuata out onto the tarmac and Lilith accelerates away. "*Now* they made the car." she says drily. "We have a spare three blocks away." replies Lynch. "Did you mean it? What you said in there?" Lilith glances back, her dark-blue eyes haunted and vulnerable. "Every word." +++++end video]<<<<< -- Dogpatch Archive ***** PRIVATE: Easy >>>>>[Your being Elven is of little matter to me. Less so of your being female. We, as a group, did not get into a political discussion so I am unsure of how the others feel about it. I guess the first point of business would have to be we all feel one another out again to see if we can work together. After that we can tell you what your cut is, and what the job is to be. This, in and of itself is different from most jobs of its type, but its the way Mako wishes to have thing work out. Sunday night (tomorrow as I write this), at Mom's Place. Its a little korean resturant down in little korea. As I have explained, and will explain again, this is a fairly safe area, lots of families, and children around so please leave the hardware in your car or on your bike. If you need to get to it, its probably already too late and you should be looking for a place to hide. In the ten years I have been conducting business / eating here, I have only once had a problem and it was not directed at me or my client. Be well. +++++ Include Map Ask to join the Mitaka group -- dont be embarassed to ask, I know its a little hole in the wall, that why I eat there, but there are rooms down stairs and in the back. Everyone inside will know you are there for business and will keep a respectable distance. For the most part, we are tolerated by the locals...we pay for the rooms, and that payment keeps their meal prices lower. Works out well for everyone involved.]<<<<< -- Kor <23:32:42 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Imp, Gohei, Mako, Morgue, Edge >>>>>[Meeting: Tomorrow, Mom's place (same place we met before). Mitaka is still the name. I should be there by 6:00. The new person is Elven, if you have problems with that, you should bring it up now.]<<<<< -- Kor <23:37:12 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Easy >>>>>[I forgot to ask -- will vegitarian be fine with you, or should I ask mom to do something with meat or soy? If you give her a little advanced warning she really appreciates it. She's the type of woman you just can help but to love and let her feed you]<<<<< -- Kor <23:39:15 / 05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[You and I both know that behind that "lovable little woman" is someone able to rise in the ranks of the Seulpa to a point where NO ONE pisses on that resturant of her's or frags with her clientel. But then again, I guess thats just not information you give out. Could you bring us back some Bulgogi and Bib im bap (the stuff with the rice and veges with the egg on top...tell her its for me, she'll know what I you mean)? I've been jonesin' for some for a while but I havent had the time to make it all the way out to her place to get any. Thanks a ton.]<<<<< -- Skuff <23:39:13 / 05-04-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Hello? Helloooo? Are you there? I tried to get in contact with you a couple of days ago. Must have been a bad router. I've asked a friend to set a few daemons on the search. So far almost four thousand responses have come back. How are things going at your end?]<<<<< -- Cybil <20:45:21/05-04-57> *****PRIVATE: Jen and Gabe >>>>>[How good are you two at blowin' drek up? 'Cause a chummer o' mine needs a funky little detonation done at one of his chummer's chief addresses. You two get back to me now, y'hear?]<<<<< -- Jezabel <20:50:42/05-04-57> ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[An interesting way to set things up, but I'll bear in mind the golden rule of shadowrunning: Johnson's got the gold and he makes the rules. Mom's Place is fine. I can't manage completely unarmed without some major surgery, but I won't bring any firearms in with me. I heard what happened to one guy who tried to make trouble there... That place has enough protection that you don't ask questions like 'who protects it'? . Vegetarian's fine by me if that's what everyone else is having, or if others want animal proteins then I'm happy with that - minimum inconvenience to everyone else, basically. This place sounds much better than I usually get to eat anyway. Looking forward to meeting you all.]<<<<< -- Easy <11:43:35/05-05-57> +++++Create.alias file: Swordbreaker *****Private: Swordbreaker >>>>>[Well I just got back and reviewed the stuff Gopher and Kneecaps recorded. Good job everybody, and be sure to congratulate your people. I'm hosting a private celebratory party at the Space Needle tomorow night and you're all welcome there. I'm glad the bastards finally dead.]<<<<< -- Aristo <2:03:05/5-5-57> *****PRIVATE: Swordbreaker >>>>>[For those intrested heres the first bit. +++++begin video.file The camera angle is low, as if being shot at waist level. At a private airfield, somewhere in the pirate cities of southern CalFree. Standing around the camera are the various members of the team being sent to take down Sword of God. The gigantic form of CRUSH towers over everybody, even the troll called the Tank. The dwarf Thornn, Kromofton, Warloc and Blademaster stand clustered together discussing stratagey. An attractive woman in synth leathers, notable for being the only human present practices with a sword against Lyting. A loud humming noise drowns out the conversations as a pair of Banshees approach from the west. The Banshees slow down and land near the group. "Ok people, Lister and M'Noc are here with our ride. Lets load up and move out, " Thornn says. The camera, obviously Kneecap's videolink, moves along with the rest of the group torwards the Banshees. +++++end video.file More to follow.]<<<<< -- Aristo <2:16:12/5-5-57> >>>>>[The next part. +++++begin audio.file Thornn: ETA? Lister: 5 minutes. Thornn: Any contact so far? M'noc: Negative. But we should be approaching their radar zone soon. Thornn: Signal Spirit, Gopher and Noid. Lister: Affirmative. They're off. Thornn: ETA? Lister: 40 seconds. Spirit and the others have taken over their detection equipment and internal cameras and communication. Thornn: Okay everybody! When the Banshees knock down the gate, they'll set down briefly. Everybody's to get out and get inside as quickly as possible. Then M'noc and Lister will play tag with the Humanis aerial forces. Everbody clear? Good. Lister: Missile away. The gates blown and we're setting down. Thornn: Everybody out! Lets move. M'noc: Good luck and happy hunting. +++++end audio.file Still more to come.]<<<<< -- Aristo <2:24:52/5-5-57> >>>>>[This parts from the base's internal cameras. +++++begin video.file The runners stand at an intersection with drawn weapons. Behind them can be seen the smoking ruins of the complexes' main entrance. A few dead Humanis lie scattered around. "Spirit you got everything secure?" Thornn asks into a communicator. "Yep. It was easy, they didn't even have any deckers to deal with, just some ice. Sword of Dog can't get any information about whats going on. He's practically throwing a fit. But theres a problem. Noid found that they've got about a half dozen prisoners." "Damn. We'll have to split up. Lyting, Warloc, Krom and Tank you go free the captives. The rest of us will go after Sword." Kromofton nods and leads his group down one corridor at a run. Thornn has the other group, with CRUSH in the front, go down a different corridor. The cameras shift to follow Thornn and CRUSH's group. At several point groups of Humanis try to stop them. But the heavy firepower of CRUSH and Kneecaps, along with the extensive magical support, makes short work of them. Thornn pauses at several points to get directions and updates from Spirit. The group rushes into a large room that looks like its used for training recruits. Across the room a large group of Humanis spot the runners and open fire. The bullets slam into the invisible barriers that Thornn and Blademaster quickly erect. The runners duck back into the corridor. Lace softly begins singing to herself and the shape of her totem mask imposes itself over her features. With a harsh word she commands something to attack the Humanis goons. The view suddenly shifts to a second camera, where the heavily armed racists can be seen being attacked by a large shadowy form. Before they can recover enough to counter attack CRUSH, Blademaster and Kneecaps hit them, smashing bones and cutting flesh. The Humanis are quickly killed and the runners continue onward. After a minute Thornn calls them to a halt as Noid speaks to him over his comm system. "The others have got the prisoners and taken out the guys guarding them. Most of the prisoners are in a pretty bad way, and one of them's been repeatedly raped." "The fragging bastards. Have Krom fall back to the gate and signal M'noc to pick them up. Then get them all to the airstrip. We'll take care of Sword." "Right." The group heads out again, moving even faster. All of them look angrier then hell, espically Lace and CRUSH. "Thornn! Sword's decided he can't get us out of the system so he's shutting down the whole computer system! You're going to be on your own, " Spirit's voice says over Thornn's comm system. "Dam.#####signal interupt.... +++++end video.file Last part coming up.]<<<<< -- Aristo <3:01:55/5-5-57> *****PRIVATE: Jezebel >>>>>[You want something blown up? Well, you've come to the right place. Shall we meet somewhere to discuss the issue, or would you prefer to remain anonymous?]<<<<< -- Jen and Gabe <18:24:53/05-05-56> *****PRIVATE: Jen and Gabe >>>>>[I like being the man behind the mask. Here's all the info you'll need: +++++Include File: target You'll get double if it happens before tomorrow at noon. We're talkin' >>encrypted<<]<<<<< -- Jezebel <18:34:56/05-05-56> *****PRIVATE:Judas >>>>>[No monsters or sorcerers. Just me and my contacts. Why not use the monsters to blow themselves up? A troll who walks the explosives in, and gets blown up by them, is still just a dead troll after all. Anyways, the time grows near, and my time grows short. I may not be able to catch them all, if they're out doors, otherwise, a building falling on them kills them all, unless someone gets lucky.]<<<<< -- Boom Boom <14:23:43/5-6-57> *****PRIVATE: Swordbreakers >>>>[Here's the last bit. +++++begin video.file The camera jerks, like the person using it is running. Just ahead of the camera is the running form of CRUSH, who's taking the time to chow down on a GigantaBurrito. "He's heading for the helipad in the center of the base," Lace's voice says from behind . In a few moments the camera reaches a large open space. A helicopter sits on it warming up. Sword of God and two bodyguards are moving towards it. They spot CRUSH and turn and open fire. "DIE DEMON SPAWN!" Sword yells as he fires an Uzi at the gigantic troll. The bullets pound into CRUSH's armor ineffectually. "We've got hostiles coming from behind, " Thornn calls out. The camera quickly whirls around to show the others tossing spells and exchanging fire with over a dozen heavily armored Humanis goons. Then two lound shots ring out and the camera spins back to the helipad in time to show the second bodyguard flying back into the helicopter after being hit by CRUSH's huge cannon of a pistol. The first bodyguard is already dead. With a scream of rage Sword charges CRUSH and a long spur slides out of his arm. CRUSH gives a fierce growl and charges Sword. Just as Sword slides his spur into the enormous trolls chest, CRUSH grabs his head with both hands. With a loud roar he rips the terrorist's head off and tosses it aside. The helicopter rises slightly of the ground and turns to bring a minigun to bear on the runners. There's a wooshing noise from right beside the camera as Kneecaps fires a grenade at the chopper. The grenade slams into the pilot canopy with a fiery explosion and the helicopter starts to tilt, causing its rotors to cut into the ground. With a scream of twisting metal the helicopter explodes. Thornn and Lace run up to CRUSH and check out the wound Sword gave him. "Just scratch. Stupid Sword of Dog try to cut me. Me rip his head off for volleyball, " CRUSH mutters. The camera turns again and shows Blademaster finishing off the last of the attacking Humanis goons. "Just a scratch. Maybe, but that blade knicked a lung CRUSH, we better get you some first aid, " Lace says behind the camera. "Allright people. Swords dead, so lets get out of here. Listers on his way to pick us up. And the cops are less then two minutes away, so lets hurry, " Thornn calls out. +++++end video.file Well if you didn't know, CRUSH is fine and so are the people Sword's men were holding prisoner. A couple of them will need some serious therapy and a long rest in the hospital, but they should pull through. Good job everybody. Hope too see you at the party tonight.]<<<<< -- Aristo <12:40:40/5-6-57> *****Internal Mail: Interpol Special Affairs >>>>>[File Number 1278.a45 Subject: Apprehension of Heller Von Dartmorn/aka Sword of God Sir, My team left for the Mojave early Saturday morning at 900 hours. The ork mage Micheal Fellworth and his bodyguard David Jones were with us. Officer Tyler attempted to access the matrix link of Von Dartmorn's base, but was dumped after Von Dartmorn shut down the complex's entire computer system. We reached Von Dartmorn's base of operations without incident to find it already under attack. We observed a Banshee swiftly departing the scene, and the base was surrounded by the wreckage of several Yellowjackets and combat drones. In addition the front gate to the complex was blown open and the wreckage of a transport helicopter was in the bases helipad. My team touched down, and along with Mr. Felloworth and Mr. Jones we entered the complex. Using stun spells and non-lethal ammo we captured over a dozen heavily armed humans. But we also found the remains of over 40 people scattered through the complex. We found a headless corpse on the helipad that I believe to be Von Dartmorn. Identification of prison serial tatoos should confirm this. Sir I believe that a team of runners, possibly funded by Mr. Fellworth, attacked the complex, killing Von Dartmorn, his guards and rescuing a group of prisoners that looked to have been held there. Initial questioning of the prisoners and analysis of confiscated cyberware gives us several possible ids on those involved. Unoffiocially I believe that the runners known as Kromofton, CRUSH, the Tank, Lace, Lyting and Warloc may have been involved. Also a preliminary data search points towards Mr. Fellworth as being the runner known as Aristo. Mr. Jones is a member of a licescened private security firm, Kneehigh Demolitions Inc. It is highly likely that his co-workers; John Thornn, Samuel "Kneecaps" Weissman and Francois "Gopher" LeMarten, were also involved in the attack on Von Dartmorn.]<<<<< -- Lt. Melles <1:13:32/5-6-57> Interpol Special Affairs Division *****PRIVATE: Blademaster >>>>>[ I will be there at the required time.]<<<<< -- Ronin <11:00:20/5-7-57> *****PRIVATE: Blademaster >>>>>[Still alive, and I won. Looks like I won't need your assistance, though the offer alone helped a lot. That was a bad time, and having someone backing me up meant a lot. You need any help in future, let me know. Thanks.]<<<<< -- Lynch <22:07:43:05-06-57> *****PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[You mentioned that caution was advisable when dealing with Mako. I've found him to be somewhat ill-mannered, though our acquaintance has been brief. That, when dealing with me, has been found to be unwise. Mako is offering me employment. I would be interested in why you advise caution. I'd like to say I could pay for the information, but at present I can only offer future favours rather than financial emoluments.]<<<<< -- Easy <00:03:43/05-07-57> *****PRIVATE: Valentine >>>>>[Val, I seem to remember people calling you 'Father'. Are you able to marry people? And would you be willing to have Haven host a wedding? At the moment it should be a small affair, but Lilith believes in what you do even more strongly than I do and I think it would be a really nice surprise that we got married there. All subject to your approval, naturally. I'm still not sure she believes I asked her Oh, yeah, in case you didn't hear... the Aztlan tortureware experiment is gone. Shut down, wiped, off the map, eliminated. We won for once.]<<<<< -- Lynch <00:05:53/05-07-57> >>>>>[ I need some information. Being new to Seattle, I know only what I have seen on the trid about the Shadows here. I also know enough to realise that, as a source of information, the trid is only slightly better than a demented Troll on BTLs. Therefore, I need a decker to do some light background checking work. Please contact me at >>encrypted<<. Those with excessive monetary demands need not apply, the work is easy, and I have limited funds.]<<<<< -- Ronin <11:13:35/5-7-57> *****Private:Ronin >>>>>[You need a decker, huh? You got one. Who/what, How much, when by, how extensive?]<<<<< -- The Stainless Steel Piece of Metal <05-06-57/16:38:28> *****PRIVATE: Easy >>>>>[Well this is interesting could Mako really be trying set me up. Tell me about yourself and this little job Mako has hired you for? Maybe we will trade information. If I like what you say.]<<<<< -- Orion <17:24:23/05-06-57> >>>>>[ Lynch and Lilith, Congradulations on your engagement. Its nice to see that a few others out there in the Shadowrunning community can get past their fears and decide to make a life long commitment. >From an already married ex-runner with children, my biggest suggestion is to make a nice little nest egg and leave shadowrunning. Terminal pursuits are not the best ones to bring a family into. I wish you both the best, and if you do decide to stay in the shadows, please be careful. Either that or go down in a blaze of glory taking as many of them with you as you can.]<<<<< -- SPIRIT >>>>>[ Ya know what dear, every so often ya tend ta let the Sioux heritage show. Congrats Lynch and Lilith. Sigh, more good looking shadowrunners getting hitch and Ah don't even have a steady boyfriend. Hmm, maybe Ah should look up from the computer a little bit more often.]<<<<< -- Circuit Breaker >>>>>[ Well, I wanted to save this little bit of news until after the Sword of Dog problem was over. It does seem to be over, as do some of the other momentus events that have been happening. So here goes. Its looks like the ever lovable big lug of Troll that happily call my husband has done it once again. We shall be seeing the newest addition to our growing family sometime late next winter. Its too early yet for the doctors tosay whether its a boy or girl. Nightfox said "Since your family has been blessed with both a boy and a girl, I think that I will leave this one to be a surprise. Atleast until the doctors might be able to tell. It would not be fitting for me to let them become too proud of their accomplishments.]<<<<< -- Spirit >>>>>[Miss Circuit Breaker, the Matrix becomes home, nation, lover, husband or wife, even the world to a matrixrunner, as you know extremely well, naturally. Alas, the Matrix cannot sustain biochemical life or provide for the emotional well-being of mere metahumanity. For those, we must leave this consensual illusion.]<<<<< -- Mercury <20:16:07/05-06-57> >>>>>[Way to go Mercury! With your last post, you knocked my syllabel counters so far off the scale my computer paged me in the middle of a class to come look at that message. That's a priority of at least 6.9 (slightly less than nuclear holocost, slightly more that finding Ms. Mercurial has finally agred to doing nude shots...)]<<<<< -- Tobias Dark <23:26:42/05-06-57> Can't Quite Figure Out How to Frag With T/D So I'll just have to put up with a Corp Stamp. *****PRIVATE: Neuron Basher, Imp, Lynch, Tangent >>>>>[ I'm in trouble. Some fraggers just attacked my place and almost got me. No time for details now, but I really need a Doc. Fading. No time to explain more, just call me on my cellular. >>encrypted<< is the number. Please hurry. ]<<<<< -- Flux <10:26:55/05-07-57> *****PRIVATE: Lynch >>>>>[I am able to perform weddings, as I am a priest, of a sorts. In fact, I am a Druid, but I have performed various other wedding services in addition to Wiccan and Druidic handfastings. I am honored that you would like me to perform the ceremony, and I will gladly offer the use of Haven for such a joyeous occasion. When do you wish to have the ceremony, and would you prefer it outside or inside Haven? I recommend outside, since the only space inside Haven large enough is the gymnasium, and it's hardly a romantic part of the building. And I can personally guarantee that you will not have rain.]<<<<< -- Valentine <11:55:29/05-07-57> ***** PRIVATE : Boom Boom >>>>>["A Trool who walks the explosives in" ....can be a good idea. Ok. Boom Boom. Lets Go.]<<<<< -- Judas <13:16:20 / 05-07-57> >>>>>[Lord, The monsters, your enemies, will die...--* very good, Judas, continue with the plan *-- Yes, God]<<<<< -- Judas <13:34:28 / 05/07/57> *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[Need a Decker eh? I'm pretty good...just got finished with another job myself. So what ya need found about who? I don't charge that much for easy stuff...though the hard stuff will cost ya. Contact me at >>encrypted<<.]<<<<< -- Phobos <14:49:41/05-07-54> *****Private: Judas >>>>>[Judas. I have not heard from you in some time. Do you not wish the opportunity to slay a great demon? He kills the pure. Those who believe in what you are doing. The demon's name is Orion. I will pay you >encrypted< plus make sure your expenses are covered. I can also connect you with some followers of mine. They are priest here that would join with you and help you on your holy quest. Maybe you could become a great leader in the brotherhood. Contact me soon.]<<<<< -- Mako <12:13:05/05-07-57> ***** PRIVATE: Imp >>>>>[Im starting with you because you already know that I am not one to just go off 1/2 cocked over something slight. I had a meeting with Orion, or someone claiming to be him. The meeting went well but what he told me has lead me to believe that there is more to this Mako than we've noticed. Mako has heavy ties with the UB. That in and of itself puts him in the category of "be weary". +++++ Include Drone 1 footage +++++ Include Drone 2 footage The audio is a little off on both of those. We had to keep them very high and out of the way. Do you have time to meet with me soon?]<<<<< -- Kor <19:48:17 / 05-07-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[ I don't have much time to talk right now .. a decker friend of Griff and I was shot up pretty badly this morning, and I'm trying to find some place to get him some attention. Any ideas where we can get him some medical help without alerting the Star? His name is Flux, and Griff can vouch for him.. Frag. The UB. As if I don't have enough to deal with right now already. ]<<<<< -- Imp <16:08:29/05-07-57> >>>>>[Hey Mako, I hear that you put a contract out on me. Tsk, tsk. I think turn around is only fair play. Watch your back Mako I'll be looking for ya. Oh and anyone else who is looking for me, DONT. Those of you that want to work for the man better make sure ya know just what he is and make sure ya got your insect repellent on, if you get what I mean.]<<<<< -- Orion ***** PRIVATE: Imp >>>>>[If push has already come to shove, you can bring him to me. I can get him patched up about as well as most. You might check with a couple of the shadow clinics around. Tell me what you need. Ill cover all costs.]<<<<< -- Kor <20:50:32 / 05-07-57> *****PRIVATE : Mako >>>>>[God said me : "Judas, Orion is a abomination.Kill him"..Well Im His slave. I have my own weapons. I have Gods protection. I need your information about the monster. Go with God.]<<<<< -- Judas <16:00:00 / 05/07/57> *****PRIVATE : El Chango >>>>>[Chango, I need information about Mako. check him.]<<<<< -- Judas <16:10:00 / 05/07/57> *****PRIVATE : Judas >>>>>[Ok, chummer. I will move my guys]<<<<< -- El Chango <16:15:00 / 05/07/57> *****PRIVATE : Mako >>>>>[God said me : "Judas, Orion is a abomination.Kill him"..Well Im His slave. I have my own weapons. I have Gods protection. I need your information about the monster. Go with God.]<<<<< -- Judas <16:00:00 / 05/07/57> *****Private: Judas >>>>>[Listen to what the Lord tells you Judas he would not lie to you. Orion would destroy the true believers. Those who would cleanse the metahumans, the demons, and the sorcerers from this world. Orion is a sorcerer and a demon. I have friends that will help you. They have been blessed and do the lords work. Meet at >encrypted<. This is a chapter house for true believers. Contact me at >encrypted< in case you need more information.]<<<<< -- Mako <14:58:27/05-07-57> *****PRIVATE : El Chango >>>>>[Chango, I need information about Mako. check him.]<<<<< -- Judas <16:10:00 / 05/07/57> *****PRIVATE : Judas >>>>>[Ok, chummer. I will move my guys]<<<<< -- El Chango <16:15:00 / 05/07/57> *****PRIVATE: Lilith, The Mighty Quinn >>>>>[Someone just hit Flux. Hard, sounds like. I'm en route to help him out. Could be a setup, but going for a decker I hired is a little complex even for Aztlan. Join on me if you can.]<<<<< -- Lynch <17:04:43/05-07-57> *****PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[Mako was hiring for some wetwork. I don't know the target, yet, so whether it's you or not I have no idea. As for me? A young Elven razorgirl, with a bad past and worse credit rating, just looking to make some cash.]<<<<< -- Easy <17:07:32/05-07-57> *****Private: The Stainless Steel Piece of Metal >>>>>[ There's a guy name of Blademaster who seems to be recruiting me for something. While I am grateful for his offer, I wish to know what I might be getting into. As I said in my initial post, I know nothing of the Seattle community, so what I really need is a brief list of what exactly it is that he does, and for whom. Some sort of history would be appreciated, but nothing too extensive (or private, for that matter). In short, I don't care if he's a former Aztlan Naval Commander, only if he's a current Aztlan Naval Commander.]<<<<< -- Ronin <05-06-57/16:38:28> *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[I need someone who knows things, and a decker tends to fit that description. The subject is known on this net as Blademaster, and I need to know something about his current affiliations and activities. There is another decker working on the matter already, so don't be surprised if you meet him (or her). The information must be current, as I have said to your fellow searcher, I don't care whether the subject is a former Aztlan Naval Commander, only if he or she is a current Aztlan Naval Commander.]<<<<< -- Ronin <11:38:05/05-08-54> *****Private: Easy >>>>>[Well Easy are you part of the team hired to kill me? I would hate to kill a young Elven maiden before I have the opportunity to dance with her. Simple point stay away from Mako. I would hate to see you become a part of his select group. Trust me. If you wish I might meet you at say Club Penumbra. I won't approach you until I'm sure your not hostile.]<<<<< -- Orion *****Private: Morgue, Imp, Kor, Edge, Gohei, Easy >>>>>[It seems we either have a leak or someone has flubbed the mission. I would like all of you to contact me at >Encrypted<.]<<<<< -- Mako <17:39:16/05-07-57> *****PRIVATE:Orion >>>>>[Bug spirits? Invae? Is that what you're talking about? If so, it sounds like i need to get out the "public service" hat again...]<<<<< -- Kromofton <05-07-57/17:35:27> *****Private:Orion >>>>>[Ill get right on it.]<<<<< -- The Stainless Steel Piece of Metal *****Private: Kromofton >>>>>[Dangerous things to talk about. These conversations are not as secure as you think. I am wondering what you mean "public service" hat? -- Orion *****Private:Stainless Steel Piece of Metal >>>>>[You will get right on what? And why don't you create a smart frame that automatically changes the time/date stamp everytime you log on to a system. Occasionally you have to do some work to the frame but it is much simpler.]<<<<< -- Orion *****PRIVATE: Blademaster >>>>>[ Please read this entire message before becoming irrationally angry. I have requested a pair of deckers to check your current affiliations and similar facts. This is not intended as an agressive act, and I would appreciate it if you would understand my need for security and some advance knowledge of who you are and who, if anyone, you represent. Orion's comments about hits and insects (of which I understood approximately 5 %) demonstrate the fact that a certain amount of paranoia is a survival trait here in Seattle. I look forward to a mutually profitable meeting, if you still wish to be there.]<<<<< -- Ronin <13:02:32/5-8-57> *****Internal: Mako contact point >>>>>[I warned you that shadowland was not secure. Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei <21:02:16/05-07-57> *****Private: Wintergeist >>>>>[Sorry I have been out of touch for so long. After that incident with Muffin Man, I really felt I needed to get away for awhile. I had never killed anyone before, and to be honest, I trust that I never have to again. At any rate, I have just gotten back into town, and I was wondering if you have a line on any jobs. I find myself in need of some cred. You can reach me at ]<<<<< -- Cuval <20:15:35/05-07-57> *****Private: Cuval >>>>>[I've been answering the bosses mail 'til he gets back from his walkabout. As to employment, his money still hasen't run out. Right now we have some surveillance running on a Mr.Mako. Rumor has it that he might be involved with the Invea. If you could avail yourself, we might see our way to providing ya with somthing to tide ya over, somthing in the nieghborhood of . Like I said, he still got tha money.]<<<<< -- Ash <23:44:24/05-07-57> *****Private: Ash >>>>>[Thanks for the prompt reply. I really did not expect such a quick one. What do you need or want me to do? I am at your service. However, I have been out of touch with recent events, so any background would be appreciated.]<<<<< -- Cuval <21:26:35/05-08-57> *****Private: Mako >>>>>[What leads you to believe the operation has been compromised? Incompetance and Unprofessionalism are two traits a shadowrunner cannot tolerate. I will be present.]<<<<< -- Morgue (00:04:44/05-08-57) *****Private:Ronin >>>>>[I am not at all angry nor irrational. If you wish to check, you may, but there is little here that you will find. I am unafiliated as of now, have done a little work for Aztlan in the past, but will never do that again(once is enough!). Otherwise, I have done little in Seattle. Most of my work has been done out of the UCAS. If you wish, I can provide you with the names of some people reputed to be good at checking such things. Phobos is one name I have heard, others I am not so sure about. As for Phobos, I had planned on hiring him to help you out. I am a magus, of some ability. I can fling spells with the best. Right now though, I have a family to take care of, so I wish to leave the streets for a time, until they are grown. Being an Elf, this could take a while. Anyway, have your deckers check whatever they wish, I am more than clean, and BTW, Paranoia keeps most people alive around here. Aquire it if you haven't already.]<<<<< -- Blademaster <8:32:45/4-8-57> *****Private:Smiley >>>>>[Want to earn some quick cash? Good, I need you to take a case into the Metahumans Year convention. I will arrange for the case to be clean, and already there, waiting. Meet me at >>encrypted<< for further details. Don't worry, friend, I have no intention of setting the case off with you near it. I am a better friend than that.]<<<<< -- Boom Boom <8:32:45/4-8-57> *****Not To:Blademaster >>>>>[Hi all, I'm semi new around here, and lookin for work. I'd be oblidged if any of you could provide for me. I'm a physical adept, faster than most, and can do a quick quiet job for almost any reputable employer. Whatever you do, don't tell Blademaster(Dad would be pissed!!).]<<<<< -- Wolfen <10:43:34/4-8-57> *****PRIVATE: El Chango >>>>>[Chango. I need your help again. I need information about Orion.God will pay you.]<<<<< -- Judas <8:30:38 / 05-08-57> *****PRIVATE: Judas >>>>>[Ok, Judasshole. I will have the information in a day. Remember, Im the king of the streets. and YOU will pay me.]<<<<< -- El Chango <8:32:45 / 05-08-57> *****Private: Cuval >>>>>[It appears that there's a new assassin in Seattle. Goes by "Orion". He did a Yokui Corp in his limo a few days back. Now this Mako character put a hit out on him, and Orion has been calling him dirty names, maybe to turn his employees against him. We need to know for a fact if this Mako _is_ a bug before taking any action.]<<<<< -- Ash <10:04:25/05-08-57> *****PRIVATE:Lynch >>>>>[So what's the date and the dress code? Listen, I'm gonna try and lay low for a little while, and I suggest you and Lilith do the same thing. I'd make the suggestion to Quinn, but I doubt she'd listen. If you need me for anything, Drake related or otherwise, you know how to get in touch with me.]<<<<< -- Blade <8:40:40/05-08-57> *****PRIVATE: Valentine >>>>>[Val, you just made Lilith very happy, though she doesn't know it yet. You see, she's a Wiccan. Well, what else would a leopard shapeshifter be? As to when... well, it's not even certain that I'll live to make the church on time, but I'll keep you informed. Outdoors would be perfect, though. Many thanks.]<<<<< -- Lynch <23:57:53/05-07-57> *****Internal: Morgue, Gohei >>>>>[Morgue, Gohei, you two are the only two to report back as of yet. I want you to check on the others. Do nothing, but see what they are up to. If they have betrayed my confidence then I will deal with them. I will pay you an extra >encrypted< for this information and your continued loyalty. After that continue with what ever plan you have already set up. If you need more assistance let me know. I will go through other channels to find Runners. Unless there are Runners you can trust and might call in on this. Let me know.]<<<<< -- Mako <09:00:00/05-08-57> >>>>>[Has else heard about that guy wandering around the barrens lately, in a big ratty gray cloak? Chanting and rambling and carrying on? I mean, he is really freaky! But they say he can cure BTL addiction, and a buddy of mine can't stop chipping Neil, the Destoyer. I mean, one of the black market ones, without the junk they always put in the leagal ones. I'll be hunting around the barrens for him, but I'll check my mail often, so if yah see him, let me know!]<<<<< -- Wankel (and his amazing rotary engine) <12:57:28/05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: Mako, Imp, Gohei, Easy, Morgue >>>>>[Im here. You message was unclear, Mako. Did you wish to meet with us or just have us contact you?]<<<<< -- Kor <17:34:01 / 05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: Imp, Gohei, Morgue >>>>>[I cannot take this job. I am telling the 4 of you before I tell the employer because I fee you deserve to hear it first. I have not taken payment, nor have I signed a contract or made verbal agreement to fulfill any obligations other than those set forth by the original contact made by Mako "To meet with the three of you to see if we could work together." In the future, on another job, I would not hesitate to call upon your special skills, but at this time, for this employer, I have to, as gracefully as I can, bow out. I have made requests for information that have not been returned. I do not have a full profile on Mako or any of the others that he might have in the past or currently associate(s) with. I cannot build a clean M.O. from the information offered to us. That might be enough for some to kill, but it is not enough for me. I have not worked outside of corporate sponsorship for many years now, and I do not plan on doing so now. There are too many loose ends that arent being tied up quick enough for me. I am a teacher and trainer at heart. I offer this bit of advice in hopes of furthering your careers are shadowrunners -- Know your Johnson. Not just what he wants you to know of him. The information I have been able to get about Mako leads me to believe that he either works directly for one who is an insectoid, or is insectoid himself. I have no proof. Take this with a grain of salt, its the best I can come up with. For those of you who arent familiar, I present this: +++++ Include footage, Crashkit footage +++++ Include footage, Pittsburgh (new reel) +++++ Include footage, UB And, most importantly +++++ Include footage, Death of Powerhouse Powerhouse was a runner, and would be friend were it not for his early demise.]<<<<< -- Kor <17:59:01 / 05-08-57> *****Private: Hermit >>>>>[It appears that we need yer investigative prowess once more. Please contact me for more details if yer free currently.]<<<<< -- Ash <13:56:25/05-08-57> *****Internal: Mako contact point >>>>>[I am greatful that you do not question my loyalty. Unfortuneatly, I am running short of operating capital and I must request a forward of some of the promised funds. I am willing to take on these additional tasks, but am unable to continue without some fincial backing from you. Please place the certified credsticks in a brown paper sack, and this sack is to be placed in the trash can in front of "Grannie's Grill" at midnight. Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei <14:03:23/05-08-57> *****Internal: Kor's Contact point >>>>>[I would like a briefing from you Kor. What have you and the other's done about Orion so far? Have you learned anything about his identity.]<<<<< -- Mako <12:22:33/05-08-57> *****PRIVATE: Blade >>>>>[Date, when we can stop running for a while. Lilith's okay, but apparently even the Chairman of the Congressional Oversight Committee suggested it might be "advisable" to "consider terminating Mr Lynch's connections with the Agency." Coppinger asked "Terminate?" And the Chairman said "Terminate...with extreme prejucide." Coppinger hit the roof, the Congresscritter retreated, and I'm safe - ish - for now, but don't you just love basking in the thanks of a grateful nation? Better make sure you bank that credit fast before it bounces. Oh, yeah, dress code is anything you like. We're hoping to hold the wedding at Haven.]<<<<< -- Lynch <17:53:53/05-08-57> *****PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[Part of the hit team? I don't know yet. I don't dance on first dates, though, and I don't die easily. You're saying Mako has UB connections? I had friends in the UB. I don't have them any more. I found one of them in the basement of the Fort Worth chapterhouse when someone hired me to tap their phones. Well, it used to be my friend before he turned into some sort of oversized ant. More fun than "Against the Hive Masters". I guess I know where they got *that* footage from now. I'll see you at Penumbra tonight, then. This is me the way I'll be dressed. +++++include graphic: Easy.jpg I'll be armed, but lightly, and I don't intend to start trouble in Penumbra.]<<<<< -- Easy <17:59:13/05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: Mako >>>>>[My research is magical in nature. I leave other research to those are are more capable of such things. I've got feelers out, but, alas, they have become too busy with personal things to deal with outside contracts.]<<<<< -- Kor <20:46:44 / 05-08-57> *****PRIVATE: Judas >>>>>[Hi guy..I have notices for ya. Orion. He came from Tir Tairngire. my guys saw him in the industrial night clubs. but...he is a strange man, Judas..very strange....I dont know the relation between Orion and Mako. be careful]<<<<< -- El Chango <16:25:29 / 05-08-57> *****PRIVATE : Mako >>>>>[Im in, but I need more information....and..who are the priests?]<<<<< -- Judas <16:40:54 / 05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: Mako, Imp, Gohei, Easy, Morgue >>>>>[As Kor said, Mako, I'm out here waiting to hear from you. Again. This is becoming both repetitive and boring.]<<<<< -- Easy <21:34:01/05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: Imp, Gohei, Morgue, Kor >>>>>[Check your headers, Kor, I got a message that wasn't addressed to me, had three recipients, but said "the four of you". Glich? I could, to be honest, care less about Mako except this cost me another job. It wasn't a big job or a good job, but I haven't eaten since I met you lot at Mom's and I really, really need the money. Kor seems to be an idealist with principles. I don't mean disrespect, Kor, but I don't share your qualms. I kill for money. As you may be able to tell, I do a great many things for money, because starvation and wired reflexes don't mix at all well. What worries me is that Orion suggests our employer is UB. I've seen what the UB keep in their basements, back home in Fort Worth. Kor, I'm meeting Orion at Penumbra tonight and I'd like a little backup if you can manage it. If I don't check back in, then he's trying to pick us off piecemeal and nobody else fall for it.]<<<<< -- Kor <21:51:01/05-08-57> *****PRIVATE: Action Jackson >>>>>[AJ, I've got a decker friend with multiple fractures, including a flailed chest. A shaman friend's patched him up, but he needs his ribs wiring up and a few other repairs I can't do in the field. Can I bring him to you, or do you know someone who can handle him? I know you're kind of jumpy about your security, else I'd be having this conversation in person .]<<<<< -- Lynch <21:55:42/05-08-57> *****Private: Edge, Imp >>>>>[What is your status in this operation? Kor has ceased all involvement, but neither of you have spoken on the subject.]<<<<< -- Morgue (16:42:12/05-08-57) *****Private: Gohei >>>>>[It appears that our associates, Imp and Edge, do not feel inclined to assist in the operation. They have shown no initiatve nor any relevent information that would assist us in the task at hand. Until they have proven themselves compentant and dedicated to the job for which they were hired, I believe all information should be kept between us. I plan on contacting two other persons to aid the operation until Imp and Edge display some professionalism.]<<<<< -- Mako <16:45:12/05-08-57> *****Private: Bane, Bonejacker >>>>>[Bane, the operation which I am currently involved in has several vacancy due to incompetance. If you are available for the next couple of weeks, I would be willing to pay >encrypted< for your unique services. The synopsis of the run is as follows: a simple hit on a Tir sniper that goes by the name Orion. Bane, your role will be one of pure magical/combat support. Bonejacker will be providing matrix expertise.]<<<<< -- Morgue (16:53:12/05-08-57) *****Private: Morgue >>>>>[The escapade appears to be a straight forward and violent one. I approve.]<<<<< -- Bane (16:55:33/05-08-57) *****Private: Morgue >>>>>[What happened now, Morgue? You scare away the other runners? It seems it's your lucky day, I have just finished a datarun and am starting to get anxious for some more excitement. Count me in. I'll start a low-level matrix inquiry into any connections of leads concerning this Orion.]<<<<< -- Bonejacker (16:55:36/05-08-57) ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[You're doing WHAT?!]<<<<< -- Skuff <21:59:50 / 05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: Serenity Deckers >>>>>[Damnit! Lock down my mail! What the frag is going on here? People are reading my mail like its last friggin' week's old damned news!]<<<<< -- Kor_Remote_Deck1 <21:59:58 / 05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: SysOp >>>>>[You might have a security problem somewhere on your board.]<<<<< -- Priest <22:01:17/05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: SysOp >>>>>[ I think that +++++ terminated ]<<<<< -- Kor_Remote_Deck1 <22:01:18 / 05-08-57> ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Relax -- I terminated your mail to SysOp because I had just bursted one out to him. Its ok. Im sure if there is a problem they will take care of it. For now, use alternate means of communication and keep your logs ready to give the SysOps if they need them. Im dropping us back off the Matrix for a short while just to make sure we arent infected as well.]<<<<< -- Priest <22:05:34 / 05-08-57> *****Internal: Gohei, Kor, Easy, Edge, Imp, Morgue >>>>>[I have heard nothing from Edge or Imp. I want to know what they=20 are up to. Kor if you are not able to handle this job then maybe you=20 are a liability. Easy, DO NOT ever forget who is paying you. You have=20 been less then professional. Morgue you are too slow with your reports,=20 and Gohei I do not need you reminding of what I do not know about=20 Shadowland. Just remember that any of you can be replaced. Now earn=20 your Nuyen and kill Orion!]<<<<< -- Mako <15:15:42/05-08-57> *****Internal: Gohei, Morgue contact points >>>>>[I am sorry that I had to talk to the two of you that way but I=20 want to see what the reaction is from the rest of them. At this point=20 Kor, Edge, Easy, and Imp have done nothing to prove to me they are=20 loyal or professional. You two will have what ever you need. If you=20 have other runners in mind bring them. I want Orion dead first and if=20 the others are not loyal then they shall die next. The price for Orion=20 has now doubled. Kill him and waste no time. Here is my personal number=20 >encrypted<. Do not use Shadowland to contact me.]<<<<< -- Mako <15:17:19/05-08-57> *****Private: Gohei, Bane, Bonejacker >>>>>[The infiltration sub-op was successful. After approximately 30 hours of surveillance on Chun's Metallurgy I opted for direct action. +++Upload ChunSneak +++Initiate Audio +++Initiate Video The picture shows a first-person view via a cyber-camera. A slight green wash covers the image, making it appear to be daytime viewed through green-sunglasses. A time is displayed in the lower left corner and a second, smaller video window is in the upper right corner. The smaller window shows a fixed image of a low-light camera watching the entrance to an alley. A black-garbed figure can be barely seen entering the alleyway, but he seems to meld with the shadows making it very difficult to follow for any length of time. A red neon sign hangs above and to the left of the alley beckoning people into Wang's Eats. The main image jitters a bit from the owner running and stops crouching at the head of a flight of narrow concrete stairs that head down to a basement entrance. Morgue has a stocky, short submachne gun level down the stairs as he duck walks up to the top of the stairs, receiving an empty staiway below. Morgue takes out a small electronic device and runs it along the top of the stairs and the walls that flank the stairs. A green ight remains lit the entire time. He then checks the first three steps for any kind of pressure sensor. Findng none he heads down to the bottom of the stairs, checking each step with a scan of the electronic device. The door at the bottom is a heavy construction plastic/steel door with a small black plastic casing where a lock would be. Morgue takes out an aerosal can and sprays along the edges and then takes of an electronics kit revealing several prods, wires, clips, small components, etc...The casing reveals a high-level maglock. Within thirty-seconds, the door is unlocked. Inside is a small front foyer with a plastic counter, store of sorts. There are posters from most of the big name weapons manufacturers on the walls and two benches line the side walls. There is a door behind and to the right of the counter. Morgue takes out several electronic devices, attached one to the front door, attaches a second at the base of the wall a foot from the door. The third is used to sweep the floor while alternately letting out short jetts from the aerosal can. Morgue makes his way to behind the counter and seeing nothing of interest turns to the other door. This door does not seem to have any security and within twenty seconds, Morgue enters the backroom. The backroom is a cluttered workshop. Two large synthwood tables dominate the center of the room, weapon parts scattered about them. A large armorer's workdesk, including fine machining tools, is in one of the far corners and another door is on the opposite side of the room. Morgue scans again for traps or security, but none can be detected. Morgue heads over to the workdesk a checks out the various small drawers and slots that are filled with envelopes, unlabeled boxes, and other firearms' parts. A black plastic case, similar to a large cigar case is picked up for more indepth examination, revealing a post-it note stuck to it with the name "Stephen Nicholas" and >LTG Number< . Open the case reveals half a dozen expertly crafted large caliber rounds at least 12.5 mm in size. A hiss is heard from the far side of the room, and Morgue whips about dropping to a firing position. A few seconds of silence pass and Morgue slowly places the case back where he had found it. About this time, a large snake-like creature can be seen emerging from a hidden trap door. As it writhes into the room, to rises up, revealing a twisted human-like face: a Naga. Morgue slowly stands and walks quietly backwards towards the door he entered, always keeping his weapon trained on the creature. It notices movement as Morgue reaches behind to open the door. It drops from sight behind the large table and can be heard slithering quickly towards Morgue. He twists the handle and slips behind the door as the Naga glides out from under the nearest table. The door is shut firmly. Morgue heads back to the main door, removes the electronic devices, and slips outside. Outside, he checks the door to make sure there are no signs of entry and then starts heading up the stairs. +++End ChunSneak As you can see, it appears Orion is actually Stephan Nicholas. The surveillance of Chun's is still being maintained and I plan on planting a tracking signal on Chun's vehicle later tonight. I suggest that our attentions turn towards finding more about Mr. Nicholas, including place of residency and any patterns he might have.]<<<<< -- Morgue (17:33:44:05-08-57) *****Internal: Mako contact point >>>>>[I understand. It appears that we will be joined soon by some additional help. Please realize that any action taken against Orion will merely warn him unless we can take him with the first shot. Is he a current threat, or is he an enemy to be carefully taken care of when the shot presents itself? Personally, I can make a shot from where I stand now, but if I fail, I may die in the attempt, and you would lose an operative. If I lie in waiting for him to make a mistake and reveal himself, then I may strike like the divine wind, with no defense and you will have your victory. Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei <19:00:12/05-08-57> *****Internal: Gohei contact point >>>>>[Good. I want to know what the others are up to first then. If they are feeding Orion information then we will have to terminate their employment. We may begin feeding them false information to give Orion. Take care with Orion. He will go into hiding if we miss the shot. Keep me up to date though. At least once a day I would like to know the group's status. Do not be afraid to make use of my influence. At this point I will only contact you and Morgue. Mako.]<<<<< -- Mako <16:53:31/05-08-57> *****Internal: Mako contact point >>>>>[I understand. I often have to go under for an indeterminate amount of time. This may cause me to miss a scheduled meet. I am not in direct contact with any of the other members, but we have contact points thoughout the city where I may get in touch with them. Please use Morgue as a headman. Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei <20:12:42/05-08-57> *****Private: Bonejacker >>>>>[Bonejacker, the LTG number found at Chun's Metallurgy is your responsibility. Also, Stephen Nicholas might have a listed or unlisted place of residency in the Seattle Metroplex, and matrix inquiries have always yeidled expedient results.]<<<<< -- Morgue (01:34:12/05-09-57) *****Private: Morgue >>>>>[I'm on the sucker. Should have an answer by morning]<<<<< -- Bonejacker (01:34:22/05-09-57) *****PRIVATE: Morgue, Edge, Gohei, Mako, Easy >>>>>[ I'm out. A friend of mine went down hard and I need to deal with it. Don't worry, Mako, when I say I'm out I mean it. I won't interfere with the rest of the team in any way. ]<<<<< -- Imp <11:45:21/05-09-57> ***** PRIVATE : Boom Bomm >>>>>[Are you ready?]<<<<< -- Judas <10:48:34 / 05-09-57> *****PRIVATE: Judas >>>>>[Ready and Waiting. Plan right now is, the area will probably be swept, but a Troll will come to the gathering, witha briefcase. He will look like a nice, down to earth troll. When he reaches about the center of the gathering, the troll set down the briefcase and walks away, supposedly. I will detaonte the case when it seems to be the center and when the damage will be greatest. :) Boom! 300 "monsters" gone and my paycheck and rep assured :)]<<<<< -- Boom Boom <12:40:53/4-9-57> *****Internal: All concerned >>>>>[ Easy searched through the club looking for anyone who fit the description of Orion. After asking several patrons if they knew Orion she began to think she was being stood up by the creep. Before she can turn to leave an attractive male moves out of the crowd and directly in front of Easy. "I believe that I am who you are looking for. You are Easy?" A slight smile and that boyish face make him seem so innocent. This could not be Orion. "And who do you think I am looking for" says Easy? The young man slowly leans closer whispering in her ear. "The man who stole the heart of Artemis, the only mortal to find love in her arms, the same man she slew by accident and placed in the stars to be immortal. Orion the hunter, at your service." His presence seems to have a definite effect on Easy. "Shall we find a seat?" Orion and Easy move to a booth. "Are you hungry, or would you like anything" Orion ask. "Maybe a little something" says Easy. She gives the waiter her order, Orion orders nothing, and there is silence at the table until her drink arrives. Orion starts the conversation. "So I hear you and some others are hunting me for Mako." Easy almost chokes on her drink. "That's not a very wise decision." "A girl has to make a living." Orion's face turns deadly serious. "A girl, or man will get killed playing games with me. Forget it, if you have taken any money then hide, if you haven't then drop the contract or I will kill you, your friends, and then I'll get to Mako and his...." in a lower tone "his buggy friends." At this point a waiter comes carrying a letter on a silver platter over to Orion. Orion looks at the letter and there is a brief look of concern on his face. He says something in Sperethrial and a faint glow surrounds him. His right hand moves under the table and Easy hears a soft "snickt." The waiter pales a bit and says, "Sir is there a problem?" Orion snatches the letter with his left hand. His nose twitches a bit, "Lemons, flowers?" Opening the letter his eyes scan it briefly then survey the room. "This date is over before it has begun Easy." Orion tosses the letter at her. "You tell Kor to stop digging into my past. This is a final warning!" Orion leaves the booth and a glint of metal protruding from his hand can be seen. Easy can see very long spurs. The metal is an odd orange color -- Orichulam?!? The spurs retract before he hits the crowd. Those watching will see two other individuals join Orion before he hits the door. One is an elf, his hair is jet black/blue and long, he is wearing long secure jacket that is black, and despite the poor illumination in the room he is wearing dark shades. His movements are very feline. The other man is large and moves as if he owns the place. He wears a long trench coat and openly displays various talismans and hermetic symbols. His hair is cut short and is blond. Easy looks down at the letter very confused and can see the name Stephan Nicholas written on the top. There is a faint smell of lemons and wild flowers. Inside the letter reads "Meet me at McCluire Park in Snohomish County at 2200hrs. - Kor." Well at least Orion left a hundred nuyen bill on the table before left.]<<<<< -- Orion *****Internal: Mako contact point >>>>>[All is going according to plan. Orion is doomed. Gohei]<<<<< -- Gohei <14:13:31/05-09-57> *****PRIVATE: Ash >>>>>[I'm free. My other projects have become a bit....stagnant recently.]<<<<< -- Hermit <12:52:28/05-09-57> *****PRIVATE: Lynch >>>>>[Sorry Dad didn't get back to you, but he was in surgery all last night and he went immediatly to bed. Bring the decker to >>encrypted<< and I'll pick him, and you if you like, up.]<<<<< -- Diana, Mistress of the Night <12:54:34/05-09-57> *****Private: Hermit >>>>>[Ah take it by yer lack of resonse that yer occupied at the current moment. If yer still in town ah would take kindly to you gettin' in touch with me.]<<<<< -- Ash <15:00:22/05-09-57> *****PRIVATE: Hermit >>>>>[Ahhhhh! Good to hear from you again, by bundled friend. We currently have ah investigation afoot. It is in regard to an individual new to the area, known as Mako. The fund set up by my employer is still operational, despite his disappearance. We will pay handsomly for an in-depth investigation of him and his activities. Be warned that he has been accused of "buggy" afiliation.]<<<<< -- Ash <14:07:28/05-09-57> *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[I'm done, took me a little while to dig up what ya were lookin' for but I got it. I couldn't find out Blademaster's real name...I doubt anyone would be just 'Blademaster' though. He did some work for Atzlan, but no he isn't a current member of their fan club if ya get my drift. Other info points to work outside of UCAS..I didn't search much past that. He was also involved with the take down of Sword of God. If ya need more info anytime just gimme a ring at >>encrypted<<. Oh, he holds a some kind of degree in the Occult. I didn't check what though. So where's my nuyen? Transfer it to account >>encrypted<<. Laterz.]<<<<< -- Phobos <15:07:41/05-09-54> *****Private: Kor >>>>>[What the drek are you up to Kor? Are you still investigating me? Just back off. That little stunt you pulled at the Penumbra was uncool. We meet, I choose the place! You want to contact me you can call me at >encrypted<. You tell Easy I am real disappointed we didn't get to dance.]<<<<< -- Orion ***** PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[I was there because the woman asked me to be there. Simple as that. Im not entirely sure what you are refering to, but another talk might be called for. We'll get together.]<<<<< -- Kor <19:50:11 / 05-09-57> *****PRIVATE : Judas >>>>>[The priest are holy men blessed by the Heavens. The Mother visits them sometimes. They will be ready in case you need them. If you ever need help or are hurt go to >encrypted<. This a chapter house in the Redmond Barrens where a priest of mine feeds the poor and the needy.]<<<<< -- Mako <13:14:54/05-09-57> *****PRIVATE : Judas >>>>>[The priest are holy men blessed by the Heavens. The Mother visits them sometimes. They will be ready in case you need them. If you ever need help or are hurt go to >encrypted<. This a chapter house in the Redmond Barrens where a priest of mine feeds the poor and the needy.]<<<<< -- Mako <13:14:54/05-09-57> *****Private: Wolfen >>>>>[ Don't worry about it. My dad usually gets pissed when I get interested in the shadows too. Of course, he's just a little over protective. He isn't that bad, he just wants to make sure that if I decide to go into the shadows that I'm trained well enough. So how old are you anyway.]<<<<< -- Erika <15:00:00/4-9-57> ***** PRIVATE : Judas >>>>>[Hi man. I went to Club Penumbra last night (a good club!). I saw Orion with a girl called Easy . They mentioned the name of Kor. He leave the club with another focked elf. I think he is dangerous. Hear me Brotha, If ya need help, Im here.]<<<<< -- El chango <17:30:07 / 05-09-57> ***** PRIVATE : El chango >>>>>[ok guy. dont leave Orion. Check Kor and Easy. my vindicator wants the abomination's blood]<<<<< -- Judas <17:30:23 / 05-09-57> >>>>>[--* Judas, Im not happy. the monsters and the sorcerers, sons of the beast, rule this city *-- Sorry Lord, Orion, the abomination, is near of go to hell. The monsters sabbath will destroy by your holy fire. --* Good son, be careful *--]<<<<< -- Judas <17:33:23 / 05-09-57> *****INTERNAL: Gohei, Kor, Easy, Edge, Imp, Morgue, Mako >>>>>[Mako, consider myself off the job. I haven't even been told I've been accepted as a team-member, I have been given no information on exactly what I'm meant to be doing, and you are alternately silent and abusive. In short, you're an asshole. And you *aren't* paying me. In fact you haven't paid me at all. Unprofessional? Well, Mako, from your behaviour you have no knowlege of what constitutes professionalism, courtesy or efficiency, and I hardly care what one such as you thinks.]<<<<< -- Easy <18:15:42/05-09-57> *****PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[Well, Mako just managed to really annoy me, so I won't be coming to kill you any time soon.]<<<<< -- Easy <18:16:52/05-09-57> ***** PRIVATE: Easy >>>>>[Did you you think about the propsition I made last night?]<<<<< -- Kor <23:06:29 / 05-09-57> ***** PRIVATE: Imp >>>>>[+++++ Transfer: >>encrypted<<. I feel a bit sorry about dragging you through hell on that last job. Consider it payment for information that should be forth coming. Its all in stocks right now as they keep taking my money away from me so I dont spend it all... and its not like I'm just giving it away without thought]<<<<< -- Kor <23:09:17 / 05-09-57> *****PRIVATE: Diana, Mistress of the Night >>>>>[Thanks, Diana. I'm fine, but the decker needs some surgery. I'll trank him out and you can take him in while he's hugging Morpheus: I know your father values his privacy, with good reason. Tell AJ I'll pay Flux's tab, okay? He helped me out big-time, so no problems. Shouldn't be any big problems anyway, but don't let him complain about "ham-handed wannabee field surgeons" ]<<<<< -- Lynch <00:03:01/05-10-57> *****PRIVATE: Imp >>>>>[Flux is taken care of. He's in a good clinic and he shoud be fine. I'll cover the bills: it's possible this is feedback from some help he gave me. If it isn't, I'll cover it anyway, because he helped me when I badly needed it.]<<<<< -- Lynch <00:04:53/05-10-57> >>>>>[I saw this on the morning news. You'd almost think that these guys just realized what was going on. +++++Begin Trideo Sequence The man speaking is your average smiling morning news guy "...with us now is Gabrielle Kirsch, with the third part of her four part series on violence in Seattle's streets." The view zooms back to include a striking woman sitting next to the man. She doesn't have the bubble headed look of your standard news broadcaster. The man continues to speak. "So tell us Gabby. What will you be talking to us about today?" "Well Rick" that must be the guy "because of a recent incident at Ching Wah's restaurant, a new high class restaurant in the down town area, last night, I've got a special report on violence and it's effect on the normal citizens of our fair city. First of all, though, you must hear what happened. It seems that around 8:00 last night, two men were eating when one suddenly stood up, fired several shots with a silenced pistol into the other man, and ran out of the restaurant before the security could stop him. We were able to get this eye witness report." The screen fills with a pimply faced kid of about 17 or 18. "Yeah, well, me and Mario, one of the other bus boys, we was clearing this table, right, and then I hear these weird noises, right, and I look up and there's one guy falling backwards out of his chair, and I'm thinking 'great, another drunk customer' cause guys come in here all the time and get wasted and I got to take care of 'em, right, and well, this guy though had blood like all over his chest and his face just looked like >bleep< and I though 'whoa, what did he have to drink' and then I sees the other guy running for the door, and this guy was fast. I mean _fast_ with a capital >bleep< me. So I only sees him for a second or two and he was out the door, and the door is like 30 meters away from his table. What'd he look like? Uh, black hair, real short like, suit, about 70-80 kilos, maybe 185 centimeters tall. Hey, am I gonna be on the trid? Hi Mom!" The screen cuts back to Gabrielle "And here is what the police had to say." The shot changes to a balding, slightly over weight, Lone Star detective. "No ma'am, we don't know why this incident took place. We are currently looking into the identity of the body, but we won't be sure for several hours at least. I'm sorry, unfortunately, it seems that the internal security recorders were on the fritz and were being repaired even while this occured. Even if they were working, we wouldn't be able to make the recording public. Our best guess as to who this man was? We believe him to be a Shadowrunner because of the publicness of the murder. It doesn't fit with how any of the crime familys would work, but it was to proffesional to be a gang hit." "And that brings me to my topic. Shadowrunners. Those parasitic leeches of society. What purpose do they serve? Why has there been such an upsurge in recent years of crimes that have been linked to Shadowrunner activity..." +++++End Trideo Sequence And she just goes on and on. You'd think the media looked out their windows this morning and went "Hey, there are bad people called Shadowrunners out there. We should investigate this." Idiots.]<<<<< -- Trideo Pirate <07:45:45/05-10-57> *****Private:Erika >>>>>[Old enough. Whats shakin? You sound like you know a lot around here. Mind showin me around? I need some cash for a present or two, a surprise fo the old man, if ya catch my drift. Kinda figured doin a job of sorts would help both end of my life, the work scheme ain't my thing. As for cash, I hear my dad made his fortune while doin this. Up until we got run outa the Tir, we were doin pretty good! Anyways, thank fer the interest, and if ya find a job, I'm up for it :)]<<<<< -- Wolfen <8:49:43/5-10-57> >>>>>[Its just getting to the point where "bad people" MUST be 'shadowrunners' so all crime is commited by shadowrunners. That, coupled with the rising number of S.I.Nless in the city is forcing more and more people into positions of not being able to support themselves or their families without resorting to crime of some sort. Dont get me wrong, there are people out there that will hire S.I.Nless citizens (and I do mean citizens, no matter how anyone else feels about it) but its maybe a step or two about slave labor. You dont have to pay taxes on someone without a tax identification number, or medical coverage, or sick leave, or any other types of benefits. Few people care about this aspect of society, and fewer still do anything about it.]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <13:51:23 / 05-10-57> Field Officer Serenity Security *****PRIVATE: Lynch >>>>>[Bad news chummer. I had a meet last night with a potential customer who made me an offer I almost couldn't refuse. He said my job was simple, all I had to do was find a certain man and put a couple holes in him in the right places. I was a little suspicious of him because he didn't have the normal johnson air around him. Lets just say he was wearing a grey suit and tan shoes, if you know what I mean. He probably drove there in a black sedan too, but I digress. Anyway, I told him if the price was right, I'd take the job. Then he told me who the mark was. John Running Wolf Lynch, shadowrunner. Apparently he'd upset the UCAS gov't, and they wanted to take him down. Then he told me the price. 50k, and they wouldn't prosecute some "outstanding warrants" they had out on me. I don't like threats. I also don't like being hired to kill team mates. I told him this. He told me that I didn't have a choice, and that if I didn't take the job, that I was a dead man. I told him, no, _he_ was a dead man. Then I shot him. I was out the door before he hit the ground. Not how I care to handle things, but like I said, I don't take threats lightly. To get to the point. Someone in the gov't doesn't like you. And now they don't like me. Personally, I think they should thank me for taking out an agent who doesn't even do basic street work. I mean, hiring me to kill you, thats just stupid. Watch your back.]<<<<< -- Blade <08:00:00/05-10-57> ***** PRIVATE: Boom Boom >>>>>[Lets Go!]<<<<< -- Judas <10:36:50 / 05-10-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[ No sweat, man. Mako was a fraggin' moron anyhow. I'd keep an eye out for him, though .. if he's involved with the bugs then we might have some problems on our hands. +++++ add to encryption: Griffyn Quick status report on Flux: He's got at least 5 broken ribs on the left side of his torso, causing his lung to collapse. His right leg took a heavy pistol round. Nothing too serious, but painful nonetheless. His left leg is broken in at least 3 places that I saw. His left arm is hamburger. Multiple compound fractures and lacerations down the whole length. Personally, I think it's going to have to come off, but I'm not a doctor. Last but not least, his left eye is badly mangled, and he's got a few fractures in his face. Lynch took him to a doc to get worked on, and said that he's going to foot the bill for it.. Personally, I want to get into Flux's apartment, and get ahold of his gear to find out what he's been working on. Someone apparently didn't like what he was digging into and decided to take some action. Anyone want to come along for the ride? +++++ remove from encryption: Griffyn ]<<<<< -- Imp <12:06:03/05-10-57> *****PRIVATE: Ash >>>>>[I see. Any information on the gentleman, such as corporate contacts, recent shadowruns, or history which you know of? Of course, if you knew that, you'd not need my help. But I digress. I will start immediately, and if you hear anything which might have bearing on the investigation, please contact me. I'll be in touch.]<<<<< -- Hermit <10:19:00/05-10-57> ***** PRIVATE: Griffyn, Imp >>>>>[Does checking out this apartment mean leaving the city and when do you want to do this thing? Not that it really matters, but if I keep rescheduling dinners with Trixie to talk about the wedding, she is going to tie me down and torture me, and, while I wouldn't mind that TOO much, NB might get a bit upset and I wouldnt want to be on NB's bad side. My credit rating is taking a beating enough as is. Imp, when you can, I really could use that information. It seems the other night someone left a message for Orion with my name attached to it. Really spooked the guy. Took me nearly 40 minutes just to calm him down, and another 20 to convince him it wasnt me.]<<<<< -- Kor <16:20:42 / 05-10-57> *****PRIVATE: Basilisk >>>>>[Bas, if you could help me here, I'd appreciate it. I've got a guy who might need a new arm. I've done a lot, but a full limb is out of my area of expertise. The cost is covered by one of the patient's friends. Wake me when you get here, but do it from a distance. I don't want to overreact and tear your arms off before I realize you're a friend.]<<<<< -- Action Jackson <10:28:22/05-10-57> ***** PRIVATE: AJ, Diana >>>>>[I never got a good chance to thank you for your assistance in our training sessions. During debriefings it was found that the shock value of your assaults and the tactics you uses was enough to throw the balance of the combat. In otherwords, we'd all gotten set in a pattern. Thanks again. +++++ Include Drone Footage +++++ Include LSS Training Tape Footage I thought you might want to take a look at the footage for yourself as I suspect we were as good for sharpening your skills as you were for us. If you could let me, or the head office know that you are available for more sessions it would be greatly appreciated. We should have another set of new officers finishing up training in a few months (6 or so). Thanks again for your assistance. If you ever feel the need to leave the shadows, I think I can find a place for you, or at least give you shining letters of recommendation from our agency.]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <16:27:51 / 05-10-57> Field Officer Serenity Security ***** INTERNAL: Dirk Vincent >>>>>[We are notifying you by mail of the acceptance of your application for the advertised position of Field Officer with Serenity Security. I have been informed that you have already been sent copies of the benefits package and direction statements. We would like to offer you that position, contingent on your sucessful completion of the Field Officer's Training Program, at a starting annual salary of 45,035 nY. You will be given a review at 3 months and 6 months, at which time, your review rating will dictate your salary increase. During your 6 months of training you will be paid a stipend and your housing will be supplied for you. Please notify us at your earliest convience as to your decision]<<<<< -- Kathy Awbringer <16:53:14 / 05-10-57> Personnel Services Serenity Security >>>>>[Hey guys what's up? I was out of town for the week with the SoG thing. Now that I am back anybody want to get together for a pint and talk about the run or other fun stuff. Of course for any of you ladies out there, I'm buying. :-)]<<<<< -- Warloc <11:04:28/05-10-57> *****Private: Kor, Easy >>>>>[Kor If you did not send the letter then who did. I will trust for now that you and Easy did not do this to see me jump. Also what was done with the letter?]<<<<< -- Orion *****Private: Kor, Easy >>>>>[Kor If you did not send the letter then who did. I will trust for now that you and Easy did not do this to see me jump. Also what was done with the letter?]<<<<< -- Orion ***** PRIVATE: Orion, Easy >>>>>[Unknown. I was there for the lady. Shortly after you bolted we left as well. I only heard about the letter after the fact and did not get a chance to see it. Did you take the note with you, Easy? If so, can I get a chance to take a good look at it?]<<<<< -- Kor <19:03:48 / 05-10-57> ***** PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[How close have you ever been able to get to Mako?]<<<<< -- Kor <19:05:12 / 05-10-57> ***** Private: Warloc >>>>>[Sounds like a great idea to me. How about >encrypted place< at >encrypted time<. ]<<<<< -- Lyting <12:54:02 / 05-10-97> >>>>>[I clipped this from an ealrier Trid broadcast.. Anyone that ain't heard of it yet oughta check it out. +++++Begin Footage The screen blanks out and begins to focus on a wrecked area. Anyone with knowledge of the Metahumans Year convention recognises this as the remains of the building it was being held at. A reporter, average stock blonde, comes foreward and the camera focuses on her. She begins to speak. "Today, a sad incident has occured. The Metahumans Year convention was totally destroyed today, despite heavy security. It is believed to be the work of the same person who earlier took down Mistuhama Corporations new office building. The MO seems the same. Lone Star has yet to comment on this, but an inside source, who would only speak after we promised he would not be named, said that a Trolls cybereye camera had been salvaged, and that Lone Star was investigating. Anyone with knowlege of this incident is encouraged to contact this station, or Lone Star, with further information. This is Sally Humbanks, reporting." The camera goes back to the building. It is nowhere near as thouroughly destroyed as the Mitsuhama Corp's building. It instead looks as if one explosion, of a very large size, took out the middle floor of the complex. The upper floors look to have collapsed on the lower floors, with devastating effect. Bodies of Elves and Orks and Dwarves and even a few Trolls are laying around like so much rubble, with Doc Wagon and more conventional medical services going from body to body looking for survivers. The camera then fades out, after a final look at the scene. +++++End Trideo Maybe she's on target. Looks like someone already mentioned a "Boom Boom" here a while ago. Something in conection with the Mitsuhama Corp's building being destroyed. Could be he's behind the two bombings. Anyone got a clue?]<<<<< -- No One >>>>>[ Well, since I've lived in Seattle all of my life, I would say that I know it pretty well. As for some work, I have a few friends that are going to be playing at "2 the Edge" in Renton. Its an upscale dance place, with a small bias against asthetically challenged people (I gather your an elf like me right?). Well, if you are at all good at seeing auras, they have been having some trouble recently with some magical pranks and a little worse (but not much more). What they are looking for are a few good looking magical watchers. Some one just to be there and look around while not attracting too much attention. They are looking at around 400Y a night for just some easy casing. The big bonus to this is getting to listen to "Azure Lightening" live, and getting paid for an easy job and all the while letting yourself be seen and talked about. Oh, and they wave the age requirement to enter the place for security, as long as we don't drink. Also, how does the street name of "Dancer" sound to you? I need a street name and think that one would be very apropo.]<<<<< -- Erika <13:39:12/05-10-57> *****Private: Morgue, Gohei, Bane >>>>>[It looks like Mr. Orion isn't as mysterious anymore. Courtey of the Seattle Department of Motor Vehicles and the Seattle Metroplex Central Residency Database (as well some less than legitimate sources), I give you Orion. Also known as Mr. Stephen Nicholas: +++Include: VidPic#3290SN Apparently Steve-O is big-wig high society kind of guy. He is the second son of Stephen Nicholas I, the Tir ambassador to Seattle, and Jennifer Nicholas (maiden name Banks). He is currently living on Mercer Island at >address< along with 2 class V registered Tir bodyguards. In other words: hot drek. Stevie has a sister that is also living in Seattle in northern Bellevue and she is a hermetic mage. Her exact occupation couldn't be determined as of yet, but I'm still working on it. From the string of letters and commendations from the Tir, I suspect she's good at being a mage. Now for a little about our soon to be dead friend. Orion does in fact have a legal SIN and it turns out is not an elf. His current occupation is listed as Security Consultant to the Tir Embassy, which can mean half a dozen things. And I doubt the Tir embassy is willing to divulge that kind of info, even to the city government. Anyways, before being a "security consultant," Orion ran with the Ancients. The Ancients are one of the larger go-gangs in the metroplex and is rumored to have Tir connections. Eventually, he decided to upgrade his lifestyle and become what he is today. He is also is a member of the Tir's paladins (the only non-elven member) and was commendated last year for single-handedly stopping an assassination attempt on the Prince of Tir's life. Turns out that Orion had an older brother, but that he was killed about 6 months about. Lone Star didn't have enough leads to continue the investigation although it is still and active file, more to appease to Tir than to get anything done. I think we all know the Lone Star mentality that if nothing at all turns up after a month of investigative work, then it isn't worth pursuing. Rumor in the Shadowlands is that the Universal Brotherhood had a hand in the murder. Orion's brother was an eleven street samurai that went by the street name Vertigo. He was in on the Renraku Hydroponics datasteal last April, if anyone keeps track. So, that's where we are now. We have a place where we know he defintely will return to and we have a summary of his background. I am going to check out his apartment security and see what angles I can come up with. Morgue, what's our next step?"]<<<<< -- Bonejacker (16:03:15/05-10-57) *****Private: Kor >>>>>[Mako is good. He vanished right in front of me once. Now I may not be the best mage in the plex but I have some descent training. He was not there physically or astrally. Go figure. One minute he's in my sight the next...gone.]<<<<< -- Orion *****Private: Kor >>>>>[Kor, if this is not you investigating me I am in some serious shit. Someone ran a trace on my SIN. Contacts of mine in the Tir got in touch with me and told me that it was a matrix breach. If the there is another team after me then I may have to go to ground for a couple of days to get prepared. Leave me a message at >encrypted< if you find out anything. Kor, if they get me. Look out for my sister. Her name is Aurora. She works at the Edge. Oh and tell Easy I owe her dinner.]<<<<< -- Orion *****Private Phobos >>>>>[Thank you kindly. The money is, of course, on it's way.]<<<<< -- Ronin <13:36:45/05/11/57> *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[No problem, nice doin' business with you. If you need anymore lookin' done, just contact me.]<<<<< -- Phobos <22:48:49/05-10-57> *****Private:Erika >>>>>[Dancer sounds good. Yeah, I'm an Elf. Not too good at seeing Aura's, but if someone needs a bouncer who can groove with the clientel and not be out of place, I'm their man. Anyways, how about you and I get together and talk, somewhere interesting, with character and life, if ya catch my drift. Boring luncheons just ain't my thing. Well, thanks for the job offer, sounds good. Have fun and I guess I'll be hearing/seeing you. Take care and thanks again :) ]<<<<< -- Wolfen <1:13:32/4-11-57> *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[OK, that was semi-annoying. Who were those guys? Nevermind,I don't wanna know. Anyways, Boom Boom's real name is unknown to me at this point. He is currently SINless, and seems to have this destructive effect on the towns he stays in too long. Gets restless I guess. So far the gigs I'm almost (but not quite) positive he did are: a) Blow my team to hell. I was the only survivor, the rest of my friends and comrades died when a misssion went bad. He blew the building too early. My team was still inside, except me. We were runnin for the door as it blew. I made it out, they didn't. Luck of the draw I guess. b) Blow up small towns with a vengence. If yer in a small town, and this guy shows up: +++++include: Photo-Boom Boom get the fuck outta dodge. c) Many minor traffic violations. Cops left dead after pulling him over, etc. d) Annoy me. That about sums him up. Real sweet heart of a guy. Managed to make a bit of money working for Aztlan when he still had a SIN, but thats all changed now. He seems to have stolen a truckload of explosives(or some shit like that, equivelent to a truckload, whatever) and uses them judiciously on his friends and enemies. Current friends are Smiley. One Troll in the whole city. Unless he hooked up with some Policlub. I think he did the very recent Metahumans Year convention, but I'm not sure. Not his usual MO, but then again, he never blows the same building up twice, as the saying goes. Fee is >>encrypted 6figures<< for capture/death of Boom Boom. He could be anywhere, and maybe got a face change, but his aura is still the same. If you have any Magically inclined, I may be able to teach spells/abilities and some cash for their assistance. I can give them an aura description, they can work from there. So far, I've nailed him to about half the city, the southern half. I'd guess he's holed up somewhere planning his next explosion. Good luck and happy hunting. BTW, if you need a trideo of what happened earlier today, I got it on tape :) Seems like someone doesn't like you very much. For a slight decrease in fee, I may be able to help keep them off your trail for a time. Depends on who they are. Good Bye, and Good Luck.]<<<<< -- Blademaster <1:34:54/4-11-57> ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Surely did. I'm up for giving it a try.]<<<<< -- Easy <23:06:29 / 05-09-57> *****PRIVATE: Blade, Lilith, The Mighty Quinn >>>>>[Muchos gracias, Blade. Looks like I owe you yet another. For those that missed it... +++++include file: Blade's_message.txt Great, outstanding, wonderful. One part of the government I work for is saying thanks, Jason, keep up the good work, nihil carborundum illegitemi, and another of the Hydra's heads is trying to kill me. A gen-u-ine class-A Charlie Foxtrot, in fact: the pooch hasn't smiled so much in months. It won't be Coppinger. Not that it narrows it down any. Now I not only have to worry about Aztlan, Drake, and maybe Maxim if they're still peeved, I have my own bosses putting out hits on me. This is really turning into a shitty day.]<<<<< -- Lynch <17:20:30/05-10-57> *****INTERNAL: SIGANet >>>>>[Sir, you had better find out about this extremely fast while you still have any active field agents left. After Lynch, who? I want to know who, in which agency, authorised this. As a matter of urgency. Considerable urgency.]<<<<< -- 1Lt DiAnnio <17:25:32/05-10-57> Strategic Intelligence Gathering Agency *****Private: Blademaster >>>>>[Sorry, did you get out okay? I lost track of you after crossing the road. In any case, in response to your kind offer of magical training, I think you saw Phoenix meeting me after I went over the road. She's an Eagle shaman, and I don't know what that does for the teaching/aura learning thing you mentioned. If it's still possible, she'll see you soon. She likes to eat at >>restaurant name<<, she's there pretty much every night. Just ask for Phoenix at the front desk. You'll love the place. Lastly, thanks for the info. I'll get some guys on it, see what they can find. If we locate the murderous bastard, I think that I can supress my more merciful instincts this once.]<<<<< -- Ronin <11:19:32/5-12-57> *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[I have some more work, but this time not for a straight fee. If that didn't cause you o tune out, how about a third share in a six-figure reward for the capture/elimination of one Boom-Boom? I've got a shaman, I'm a fair sammy, we need a decker, and you fit that description admirably. Contact me at >>telecom number<<, maybe we can make a permanent team of it.]<<<<< -- Ronin <11:30:53/05:12:57> +++++ Trid news program, KIX "Live and Independent" >>>>>[ Blonde woman with microphone standing in front of >>encrypted restaur= ant name<<, looking a touch harried. Her makeup is just short of perfect, unusually. She speaks quickly, "Shocking scenes of suffering and death here outside >>encrypted< +++++ Trid news program, KIX "Live and Independent" >>>>>[ A stern-looking white-haired man reads the following. "The following article is a piece of footage taken by the security cameras in the apartment building opposite >>encrypted<<, where the attempted assassination occurred last night. The data was given to this station by an unknown source, and we have reason to believe that the system of the building was illegally penetrated to gain this information. This station does not condone illegal acts, but in this case the truth must be known." Cut to a scene in what appears to be the lobby of a middle class apartment building. The time/location indicator in the upper left corner reads "LOBBY <12:37:41/05:11>" Two people and a shimmering spirit enter, their faces obscured by fuzzy spots. Presumably, this is the work of whoever gave this to KIX. The first is a man [hereafter referred to as OURHERO to avod confusion] wearing a long leather coat and dark pants, with buzz-cut hair and a short, wide frame. The second is a slim dark-haired woman in an oversized yellow T-shirt and black jeans hacked off at the knee. The spirit appears as a twisting column of air with the head of a bald eagle. OURHERO pulls an Ares Viper from under his coat, and checks the action. "Stay here," he says to the woman in a synthetically distorted voice, "Kill any motherfragger who comes down." The woman nods, throws her hands in the air, and disappears from view. The man shakes his head, then heads up the stairs at a rate that almost matches that of a chipped elven sprinter. The spirit follows at a similar pace. We return to the anchorman, who adds to his earlier disclaimer. "This next scene is taken from the internal security system of the minor executive who lives in this flat. Apparently the assassins broke in to the system earlier and looped the camera and motion detector feeds to the monitoring SPU so that while the cameras were still recording, no alarm was given." Cut to the living room of a mid-sized apartment. There are two couches and a large synth-leather armchair arranged about the room. The door is kicked in and OURHERO throws himself inside in a dive roll that brings him to his feet with the Viper out in front of him. Seeing no targets, he advances into the room. In response to a noise that the non-wired need at least three playbacks and a high tech noise enhancement system to hear, he throws himself over the back of a sofa, lands on the seat and tumbles into the cover of the arm-chair. A burst of bullets from a doorway chews up the sofa he went over, several exiting it in sprays of stuffing, and the shooter moves into the room. He is a tall, slim asian man, holding a bulky looking rifle in his hands. At this point there is a close up of the rifle, what looks like a strengthened sniper weapon, with a long clip. If it's firing standard rifle ammo, there's probably room for twenty or more rounds in there. A short technical readout appears, stating that the weapon is a Konima A/SR (assault/sniper rifle), not yet available outside of Japan. The weapon fires on full automatic and has the structural strength to resist rough handling, but has the delicately perfect accuracy of a sniper rifle. The screen now returns to the main action, as the A/SR carrier enters the room. Although there is no way for him to have seen the asian, lurking as he is on the floor behind the couch, OURHERO pops up facing exactly the right direction and puts a round into the chest of his opponent, following with a head shot as the asian goes over backwards. As the target falls, OURHERO moves around the sofa, and cocks his head in response to a thump from elsewhere in the building. The spirit from the lobby enters, and OURHERO pauses to put another two rounds into the asian, then moves through a door in a cautious slow walk, the Viper extended in front of him. The next scene is in the kitchen, a room of surprising size for an apartment building of this type. OURHERO enters, glancing around, then hurries to a window, large and vertically sliding. It is still unlocked, and a fallen pot-plant that was holding it up lies on the floor. There is an alley on this side of the building, a fact that is visible over OURHERO's shoulder as he moves forward. He hesitates for a moment then unleashes a powerful side kick into the glass at about chest height. The window shatters, and after a brief moment a shout is heard from below. This is followed by the ripping sound of light automatic weapons, and a few tracers fly past in the darkness of early evening. OURHERO responds by rolling through the remains of the window on to the fire escape, then leaping over the rail. The spirit follows as OURHERO disappears from sight, and more shots are heard from below. After another five or six seconds, all is silent. Cut back to the anchor man. "As well as the corpse inside the apartment, two bodies were found in the alley," he says, "Both of them were asian men with extensive, and illegal, skillwire systems. The skillsoft chips found on the bodies were reported to be involved in the use and maintenance of the Konima A/SR. Neither man carried any identification, and dental and other records have been inconclusive in the search for the names of these men, or of their killer. How he survived the five story fall from the building, and numerous other questions, remain unanswered. His companion has been tentatively identified as Phoenix, an eagle shaman, because of the distinctive ally spirit seen entering with the pair. Other than that, nothing is known about why the assassination was attempted, who the target actually was, whether he or she was killed, or indeed by whom the hitters were paid. Anyone with information is requested to contact either this station, or the Homicide division of Lone Star, Seattle."]<<<<< -- KIX <18:01:54/05:11:57> >>>>>[Somebody told me I could find some help here. I desperately need information, or someone to locate a person for me. I don't have much credit to offer for that, but I still have some connections in my old business, I could arrange for some "exotic" gear at reduced prices, or maybe in exchange for some other material. Maybe some of you even bought something from me, some time ago. Maybe you didn't even know who was I when you did. No trouble. I have changed since I changed line of work. What I need is somebody to look for a girl, a cat shaman, that goes by the name of Laura. No, she is not a fugitive or some corp runaway, and I just want to talk to her. She was my girl, once. I don't know if any of you ever had the luck of falling in love with another magician. Astral space becomes one such wondrous sight when you are deeply in love. Enough. Business talk. Laura, that is her name, was in Seattle just two weeks ago. I haven't been able to contact her by any magical means. If anyone is interested in this easy and probably one-day job, he or she can contact me here. I will call you back, so leave either an LTG address, a mailbox address, or a telephone number. I think that either someone "a little more than computer literate" or somebody with some connections in the right places can help me. I can also pay you with some magical services, if you prefer that to gear.]<<<<< -- Twilight <02:17:53/06-12-57> *****Private:Twilight >>>>>[Can you get me a delta-grade encephalon-4? If so, i can get the rest of my team to do a quick check and probably come up with more than you want. If you want to pay with something else, just ask.]<<<<< -- The Tank <05-11-57/18:32:38> *****Internal:Kromofton >>>>>[What do we currently need, gear or magical services-wise?]<<<<< -- The Tank <18:34:14--5/11/57> *****Internal:The Tank >>>>>[+++++Include-file:need.txt]<<<<< -- Kromofton <18:37:35--5/11/57> *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[Hmm..sounds interesting. I'm in. Tell me a little more about this Boom-Boom. And who put the reward out for him. I remember hearing something about him ealier last month but then I never heard from him. I assume he learned how to send PRIVATE mail... Contact me at >>encrypted<<. Laterz. Who else is gonna be in on this?]<<<<< --Phobos <01:22:10/05-12-57> *****Private: The Tank >>>>>[*GET* you an encephalon-4? Hey, if I could afford one of these babies DELTA I would not be here, no? The things are black-marketed as rarities... I would be PAYING for the job! However, I think something can be arranged. I could give you the address of a shadow-clinic that can install delta 'ware, and I can start negotiations to let you have one Gibson ICS W332 Version 2.3.1 Encephalon-4 (*without* user's manual, I'm sorry) for only 125000 NY. On the street, they're worth more than 200K... Installation would be at your expense. I will give you the adress of the clinic when you accept and the W332 when you come back with some precise info (you should allow at least one week). I am sorry I cannot offer more. I spent almost everything I had for my lodge, back when me and Laura were still together. However, this is an easy job... I just want to know where she is! You don't have to follow her, just tell me where she is.]<<<<< -- Twilight <11:30:23/06-12-57> ***** Internal to: Doctor Spot >>>>>[ Hi doc. I need to collect that debt you have with me. Remember that gene-therapy material I sold you three years ago, no? Saved your job and your life if I don't go wrong... And you paid me "with your eternal gratitude"...I need some of that "eternal gratitude" NOW... You still working for the Ki-Rin Clinic, no? I need you to modify a stolen Gibson ICS Encephalon-4 W332 Version 2.3.1. Full job, genetic blueprints, compatibility check, invasive minimization, ionic channel optimization and neural whatchamacallit. You know what I mean. This guy wants *delta*. You then install it on the guy, standard fare for delta, in your clinic, no questions asked, no forms filled.]<<<<< -- Twilight <17:22:23/06-12-57> ***** Internal to: Twilight >>>>>[You crazy? I will need the guy's complete genome mapping and at least a month of machine-work to make a *possible* delta out of one Gibson ICS. You know how it works, we cannot be sure how good it is UNTIL it is installed. What you need this 'ware for? You left the fixer business, and weren't you a mage? Sure, encephalon's good, but you will find yourself empty before you can say "burnout" if you start installing!]<<<<< -- Doctor Spot <17:23:55/06-12-57> ***** Internal to: Doctor Spot >>>>>[ Yeah, *I* know how it is, but it's not for me, and the guy wants DELTA. And I don't want to discuss up close with someone named "The Tank", OK? I have enough trouble already. I don't even get why someone named "The Tank" needs an encephalon, but if he wants it, heck, we give it to him. I will provide the Gibson ICS, and you know they're much better than the usual BioTechnics stuff, so you work on something good to start with. You blueprint it, FAST! I need it in two, three weeks max. Then you install it. And we will be even.]<<<<< -- Twilight <17:24:23/06-12-57> ***** Internal to: Twilight >>>>>[ OK, OK, I will try, just explain to "The Tank" that we have no control over the quality of our cyberware until it's installed. I don't want trouble either. Gee, Im' doing this just cause it's you, I'm risking big... Why do you do it?]<<<<< -- Doctor Spot <17:26:31/06-12-57> ***** Internal to: Doctor Spot >>>>>[ For a girl. And don't ask nothing more. I will explain when everything's over. I will give the guy your standard LTG encoded address. Hope he just can do what he claims... I have no time to check him out and he's the only one available right now.]<<<<< -- Twilight <17:33:23/06-12-57> *****PRIVATE:Ronin >>>>>[Good. As for the compatability, I'm not sure with spells, I don't think so actually. But she's more than welcome to try. As to the Aura, I'll show her a replica. Nice spell to have :) Makes for great fun when a mage or druid etc. is after you :). I'll meet Phoenix, and show her a good replica of the aura. You can handle it from there I assume? I'm not sure we have discussed pay, I'll have to figure out exactly how much this is worth to me, then double it. I hate this bastard. He killed my best friend, my then-current lover, and all my friends in one feel swoop. I wish I'd never worked with him, or agreed to. Oh well. Couldn't have stopped my friends anyway, always were a hard headed bunch . If you can hand him to Lone Star with proof, I'd almost rather see that than him dead. Go ahead with the job, and if you don't mind my asking, who were those guys?]<<<<< -- Blademaster <19:45:54/4-12-57> *****Private:Ronin >>>>>[Scince you'll be working with others, I can handle a split payment if you like. Somewhere in the neiborhood of 250K each? I can handle that pretty well, won't braek my bank too badly .]<<<<< -- Blademaster <19:54:34/4-12-57> *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[All I know about Boom-Boom is that he likes to blow things up, although the name sort of gave that away. The only other one in on it is Phoenix, a Shaman I know. I have a photo: +++++include: Photo-Boom Boom Apparently he managed to make some money working for Aztlan when he still had a SIN, but he no longer exists according to the system. The metahuman convention explosion was possibly his work. I suggest we three (you, me, Phoenix) meet with the employer, one Blademaster. I'll have him contact you if he agrees.]<<<<< -- Ronin <18:00:43/05-13-57> *****PRIVATE:Blademaster >>>>>[A Renraku hit squad, I think. I doubt that I will survive a second attack, I only escaped death this time because of... a factor they did not know about. They probably had observers there though, so they'll plan for it next time. Enough, however, of this fatalistic self-pity. Can we arrange a meet between you, me, the decker known as Phobos, and Phoenix. It should be soon, as I want them to hear what you know about BB firsthand. Contact me at >>encrypted<<.]<<<<< -- Ronin <18:19:04/4-13-57> *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[Ok, I'm gonna run a search for this Boom-Boom guy. No offense or anything but you were the one who searched for him...I'm the Decker here . I'll find something hopefully....even if it's table scraps. As for this Blademaster, how well do you know this guy. I mean who does he work for if you know. I couldn't find out without doin some major IC. I just don't wanna show up and find out he is LoneStar or something. Or worse. Contact me at >>encrypted<< if you need anything soon. I'm ready to set up a meeting with you all.]<<<<< -- Phobos <06:41:10/05-13-57> ***** INTERNAL: Kathy Awbringer >>>>>[That seems fine. I have been staying at a building out in Renton getting the feel of the city. Lively place you have here. Give me the meeting time to get procedings underway and let the training begin. In adition to basic internal protocol training and operation drills I imagine there will be specific training in authorised use of my magical abilities. +++++ include : spell abilities, CDC astral combat training record. That should help tailor the programme. I mention this now, I hope it is not too early and unappropriate, will this training period also be used to assess whether Serenity will assist in my continued magical training. May we also get moves under way so I can take my weapon focus astral, as a private citizen I was only ably to get a physical transport permit. I now have UCAS phone number >encrypted<.]<<<<< -- Dirk Vincent <13:22:04/5-11-57> ***** PRIVATE: Orion, Kor >>>>>[Looked at it, picked it up, stuck it in a pocket. You want it, say where we can meet and you can have it.]<<<<< -- Easy <22:32:45/05-12-57> ***** PRIVATE: Cybil >>>>>[Greetings. I wish I could tell you that I have both good news and bad news, but, unfortunately, I have only bad news at this point. The investigation has been shut down and my funding through Lone Star cut. We've had no leads in over a month and, well, that is usually longer than we stay on a case anyway. The ritual sample we managed to get from the last crime scene ended up being tampered with in some way and was rendered useless. IA is investigating but I believe it will come down to "Improper Handling of Evidence" and a slap on the wrist for the field Op who did it. Im sorry.]<<<<< -- Kor <16:06:15 / 05-13-57> ***** PRIVATE: Trixie >>>>>[Would I be able to interest you in a little hanky panky on the side? I figure you'd turn me down anyway so, how about dinner tonight? There is a new place opening up in up-town and I dont have a date. I've arranged for NB to be a bit too busy tonight to join us.]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <16:09:02 / 05-13-57> ***** PRIVATE: Jason Stormwind >>>>>[What is this? It takes me getting engaged for you to start taking notice in me? Yeah, sure, I'll go. Sounds like fun.]<<<<< -- Trixie <16:09:01 / 05-13-57> *****PRIVATE: Action Jackson >>>>>[Herr Jackson, it would be a pleasure to helping you. I am getting tired of the walking-in cases i get lately. An arm would be just right. Is the patient wanting flesh or cyber? Either one is fine, but it will being better if i can prepare. I will come to the clinic tonight, but maybe you want to move him to my clinic for the work? Don't worry, i know how to being not followed. Do you know any cases of someone who wants bioware? That is my best specialty, and i am just finding a source for some excellent growth vats. I don't want to make the investment though unless i know i can be using them. See you tonight.]<<<<< -- Basilisk <02:03:56 GMT/14.MAY.57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Drek. Same at my end. Well, not so much funding, as a lack of information. On the other hand, I've come up with about 20 pulses of brown haired couples... I'm in the process of weeding out duplicates. Keep me informed if anything happens.]<<<<< -- Cybil <23:32:50/05-14-57> *****Private:Ronin, Phobos, Phoinex >>>>>[I agree that a meeting would be mutually profitable. I get to know that you are after the right man, and you get a good paycheck. I'll be at >>encrypted<< for dinner tommarrow. I hope you all can make it. ]<<<<< -- Blademaster <14:00:00/4-14-57> *****Private:Ronin >>>>>[About the hit squad, I may be able to provide a safe house after the job is done. Somwhere where they hopefully won't find you and you can get some sleep at night. If you are interested, let me know. If not, at least consider the offer.]<<<<< -- Blademaster <14:05:00/4-14-57> >>>>>[What happened? This LTG is dead... ... I feel like an extra in a cheap western trid.]<<<<< -- Wankel(and his amazing rotary engine) <16:08:42/05-14-57> >>>>>[I don't like this. It's like the calm before the storm. What's worse is I had a dream and it bothers me a wee bit. I was floating over a barren land. I mean the land was dead. I could see in the distance what appeared to be a pyramid. As I got nearer to this monolith I could see that it was not yet complete, human slaves were pulling huge blocks toward the pyramid. In retrospect I believe it looked more like a pyramid from South America. One like the Incas. There were beings whipping the slaves, I say beings because from my height as I flew they did not appear human. I went closer to see these taskmaster and was surprised to see Invae. I was even more surprised that they responded when I got close. Two that looked like wasp leapt into the air and chased after me. Others hurled spears at me. The slaves, humans, orcs, trolls, dwarves & elves begged to be saved, but I could not. As I flew by the temple a woman dressed in black ordered the Invae to chase after me and to not let me escape. With in a few moments I could see a cloud of insect chasing me. I flew across the barren landscape but could see the creatures were gaining on me. I saw what appeared to be a chasm and headed for it hoping that I could hide, but what I saw further astounded me. I could see the planet Earth. It was as if I were viewing it from space. I was unsure if I should go into the chasm but one look at the swarm that was approaching rapidly and o flew at earth as fast as I could. When I did so I felt pulled and the landscape stretched around me. Everything went black and I awoke in my bed. I have not had many dealings against the Invae. I do believe this was more then a dream but of what importance? Any help would be appreciated.]<<<<< -- Warloc <15:28:24/05-14-57> >>>>>[You've been to Hive World. More then likely you went there in your astral form. Like a Quest but you got sucked in. Are you a Shaman? Maybe your Totem sent you. What's important is you alive and be glad they did not capture you.]<<<<< -- Orion ***** Private: Blademaster >>>>>[I can say yes to the meeting for myself and Phoenix, but I cannot speak for Phobos. I presume though that he will be there. With regArds to the safehouse offer, I am happy to accept. I don't actually have a fixed address at the moment, and I'm sick of living in a car. By the way, there is little point in sending messages to Phoenix, she doesn't tend to even look at telecommunications gear, says the EM radiation messes with her connection to the spirits or some such drek (I can say what I want about her beliefs here, but god help me if someone mentions this comment to her meatside).]<<<<< -- Ronin <11:12:39/5-15-57> >>>>>[I also had a strange dream recently. However, I don't think it has much signifigance. I dreamt I was being chased by a giant burrito. Hang on, I need a drink. +++++Pause:15 seconds AHHHHH!!!!! The burrito is sitting in my chair! AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! +++++Pause:300 Seconds +++++Timing out...]<<<<< +++++Signal terminated at source -- The Stainless Steel Piece of Metal <05-14-57/17:31:29> +++++No end-of file found. Download attached file? (y/n) *****Private:Erika >>>>>[Hey, that spirit was neat wasn't it! Anyway, got anymore jobs lined up? I still need a little cash, besides, I like having money. So, whats next? Hunting more spirits sounds good to me. How bout a hunting expedition in the woods? If I can get back into the Tir I know some great places near the mountains. Around here I'm not so sure. I do know some Shadishe members though. They might be able to help me out. So, you up for it?]<<<<< -- Wolfen <20:48:54/4-14-57> *****Private:Ronin, Blademaster >>>>>[I'll be there.]<<<<< -- Phobos<21:41:30/05-14-57> *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[I'll be there but I'm gonna have a friend watching us from above if ya get my drift. I just don't want anything to go wrong. Besides, if any trouble comes up he can aid us.]<<<<< -- Phobos <21:42:39/05-14-57> >>>>>[Or maybe Warloc just ate an extra greasy slice of pizza before going to bed...]<<<<< -- Jen and Gabe <23:25:32/05-14-57> *****INTERNAL: Sheppard-Intrepid TO: Joseph Randell PRIORITY: HIGH >>>>>[One of our linked pairs in Seattle has recently been attacked, abducted, and subjected to some form of interragation before being released. I recommend the immediate withdrawl of all Linked Pairs from SS lands, as well as the necessary personnel to locate the kidnapper. All information regarding this incident is enclosed. +++++INCLUDE FILE: Incident.report +++++View File? n +++++INCLUDE FILE: Memories +++++View File? y " Her senses trilled with flow of knowledge; her datajack and neural feed acquired, processed, and then displayed information faster than she could ever of hoped to do herself. Dull green lines overlaid her vision, displaying air ducts, electrical conduits, network cables, as well as a plethoria of other features -- data derived from stored building plans, sensory information relayed from her weapon via the smartgun link, and pulsed signals sent from her all-to-distant partner in crime. The corridor continued in front of her -- gyprock walls slung from aluminum non-conductive studs. Glorying in the power of her knowledge she pushed herself into a submeditative state, and her gaze slipped into the astral. The glowing computer-enhanced image slipped from her vision being replaced by a swirling and ripling scene of light. The same corridor she had scene before was rerendered in the higher plane. Around her small eddies of microbes moved. They were the only life. Everything on the otherside of the walls was hidden by a thin sheet of biologically active paper adhered to the back of the sheet of each panel. She noted the the yet another security feature in what had appeared to be an insecure building and continued on. She waved panned barrel of her restricted issue handgun, it's muzzle mounted sensors reporting no sign of any possible resistance. She jogged down the hall towards the elevator. On queue, the elevator request light spontainiously illuminated, and the two chromed doors gently and silently slid apart. The elevator's light flooded out into the narrow hall, displaying the sprawled and unconscious figure of a building security guard. Fear suddenly tightened in Jenna's throat. She froze, leveling her gunbarrel at the elevator. Sonar, radar, microwave and thermal sensors all declared in unison that the security guard was the only life within the surrounding 50 feet. Making her fault, she half turned to check behind her. From empty air, a dark black bag suddenly leaped down over her head. Training responded flawlessly, her gun reached back, seemingly with a will of it's own and opened fire. Without waiting for a confirmed hit, she tucked down, trying to pull her head out of the dark bag. Something heavy and hard connected with the base of her spine and her legs suddenly disappeard into numbness. She opened herself and drew in mana -- she felt the electric ripple of magic course down her axons, grounding gently on her cybernetics. Again another kick, this time sprawling her onto the floor, the bag torn from her attacker's hands. Jenna rolled onto her back, her legs limply following her body's request for motion. The gun she had leveled between her knees was aimed squarly at a ceiling panel. The ball of dancing flame that had appeared in her left hand began to slowly flicker out of existance. She paused. The flame winked out. She reviewed the situation: Bruised spine -- probably no legs for the next twenty minutes; invisible attacker; sec. guard in still empty elevator. Things were not going quite as well as planned. But Gabriel was on his way. She almost felt sorry for her unseen attacker. Her vision rippled as she moved her sight again into the astral plane. The hallway was almost completely dead. No life excepty for her own much muffled glow. She looked at her own aura: no perminant damage done to her spine. She glanced about further. The security guard in the elevator was gone. That explained her assailent's entry. She looked for an escape. None. The only exits from that hallway were through the four bulletholes she'd put into the gyprock. The black bag had been left on the floor. It's aura was of suffering. She didn't have to look closely to tell it was a magemask. She surveyed the hallway about her. Empty. Apparently. She sent out a tentative ripple of magic, watching the glowing purple spherical shell expand out from her. There was an echo. Her meat body almost smiled. The shell had encountered resistance. Magical resistance. She let loose another ripple, this time directed towards the elevator -- from where the echo came. Again it returned. Faint, but still an echo. She pushed her conscienceness away from her body and towards the anomoly. Worry overcame her. She froze, uncertain of it's source. Certainly not Gabriel. Not from this far away. Killer? No. He would still be on the roof. She stopped. She was the source. She spun about back towards her body and threw herself wholehartedly back into reality. It took a second for her body to welcome it's spirit back. A slight moment of giddiness as some nameless biological entity waited for the rest of the spirit to return before giving up. Strength and control of her body returned. She was still lying on her back with her gun sighted on where her attacker's head should have been. She had to get into the elevator: it only had one route of attack, whereas the hall had two. She had to keep herself safe until Gabriel arrived. She concidered taunting her unseen assailant but thought better of it. The attacker wasn't a security guard -- no need wasting expensive ammunition on what were little more than innocent bystanders. Again she pulled magic into herself. She felt a slight tingle down the length of her smartgun link but dismissed it. Her body bouyed gently and moved towards the elevator. She hovered about an inch off the floor, just far enough to protect herself from unneccessary carpet burn. And then the magic stopped. Her body thudded to the ground. Instinct suddenly took over. Her attacker was drawing mana out of her as fast as she was drawing it in. She pulled in more, her draw was stronger and faster, and she was still easily within her limit. She could sense the power being drawn down into the floor, she rolled over onto her front, the muzzle of her gun buried in the knap of the carpet. She squeezed, feeling her injured spine tingly with the electricity. The recoil of the silenced burst jerked her body back from the instantanious hole in the floor. She smiled as she felt the mana rush back into her. And again the bag came down over her head. She coiled the power and formed a tendril of pure energy. Something about her body changed -- her counterattack melting into nothing. Blackness overwhelmed. " The account speaks for itself.]<<<<< -- Carlo Vausten Security Director (SS Division) Sheppard Intrepid *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[That sounds like a cunning plan, but I doubt we have anything to fear from Blademaster. The thing that worries me is the possibility that Renraku have compromised this net, and will therefore be waiting for us, and more specifically for me. I take that back, I'm not at all worried. In fact I'm looking forward to the slaughter of any bastard Renraku ops I see, hear, smell, or otherwise notice.]<<<<< -- Ronin <11:00:31/05-16-57> >>>>>[Isn't this a nice town to live in sometimes? Yucky, yucky, yucky even by Seattle standards. All the proper sex-crazed serial killers make sure they weight the bodies properly and just throw them in the Sound. Leaving them lying around... baroque, messy, and smelly especially now summer's coming. +++++begin news item WOMAN'S BODY FOUND IN PLAYGROUND The partly-clothed corpse of a young woman was found this morning in a Green Park children's play area. Police refused to comment on the woman's identity, a cause of death, or whether she had been assaulted: however, unidentified sources claim the body was ritualistically mutilated and surrounded by an occult inscription daubed in blood. Lone Star have appealed for anyone who was in Green Park last night or this morning to contact them. +++++end news item I'm gonna talk to my buddy in Pathology. Unless Jerry grabs me first...]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <17:10:22/05-16-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Is there a relation between this killing and those two women? My Star sources are failing me on this one... (Although the coroner's report was most interesting...)]<<<<< -- Cybil (18:38:43/05-16-57> *****Private: Wolfen >>>>>[ I really don't know of any real runs at the moment, thats more my dads area. The other big thing is that I have to tell him about any runs that I'm going to do, I promised him so that he could look them over and see if I was getting myself in over my head. The bad part of a run would be the I would have him watching over my shoulder. The good part is of course the he would be watching over my shoulder if something when sour. Having and angry dwarf who is annoyed at the people giving you trouble as back up can be very reassuring. Especially if he likes to carry big guns and knows how to use them. I think that I may know of something that might have some possibilites. I'm going to look into it and get back to you in a few days. It would personal security/escort duty. In other words, look good while offering some protection and not being a liability.]<<<<< -- Dancer <22:05:34/05-16-57> *****Private:Joshaua >>>>>[Where the hell are you!! I've just got a couple of mins. to write this damn thing I *&^^%&%UYGV^%%%FK ---- 988rihjjfallkds +++++running Anit-ECC Josh-4........connected before there was any trouble. I know you said this was going to be a bad run but FRAG!!I've lost three guys already. You didn't tell me about Soke. I was not prepared. Say again...I need more people down here ASAP....YOU GOT IT?!!!]<<<<< --Tex <15:22:01/17-05-57> *****Private:Tex >>>>>[Sorry I have been out of the sene for quite a while...I had no idea Keaya had left you guys there without some back up. Are you sure about Soke? He was supposed to be in Sanfran now. I'll get more people down there soon.]<<<<< -- Joshaua <15:40:23/17-05-57 >>>>>[I was just wondering if anyone out there was interested in some extra nuyen to help them get by in exchange for a small run? I need some help exterminating a problem I have. Reply to me privately if your interested. Decker. Tosser, or Sam.]<<<<< -- Joshaua <15:47:45/17-05-57> *****PRIVATE:Joshua >>>>>[I'm game, if the pay is right. Refrences supplied upon request.]<<<<< -- Blade <13:57:57/17-05-57> *****PRIVATE: Joshaua >>>>>[I saw your posting on some decker work. I could use a few nyuen. What's the job and how much are you willing to part with to have it done? I'll be waiting for your response.]<<<<< -- Dashira <14:10:57/5-17-57> *****PRIVATE: Lt Kara Westwood, Lone Star Homicide >>>>>[Kara? She took the bait. Quinn's off and running on your case. +++++include file: transcript.txt I hope you know what you're doing. If you're wrong about the investigation being deliberately misdirected, then Quinn is going to act like dynamite in a swimming pool. Don't get me wrong, she's one of my best friends, but she's totally crazy: once you set her going, best see which way she's moving and stay out of her path.]<<<<< -- Dr. Jerzy Adamcyzk <19:52:14/05-17-57> Pathology Department Seattle General Hospital *****PRIVATE: Joshaua >>>>>[I seem to be available at the moment. I specialise in exterminating problems and find myself in need of funds.]<<<<< -- Easy <23:34:42/05-17-57> >>>>>[+++++begin transcript Okay, here's the scoop. Body was found at 0640 in Green Park, by a guy out jogging. She was partly clothed, laid out near a children's playground. Weird stuff drawn on the ground in what turned out to be her blood. Here, file and pictures. "So we maybe get a semen sample?" Nope. Looks like intercourse took place, but we found spermicide traces. He wore a rubber. "Even the rapists are practicing safe sex these days...these symbols are interesting. Can I copy this?" That's a duplicate, keep it. Body temperature suggested she'd been dead about four to eight hours, depends whether she was killed there or not. No rigor mortis when found. My guess is nearer four ours, she'd lain there long enough to be soaked in dew and that would cool her pretty quick. "You think she wasn't killed there?" Hard to say. The intercourse probably didn't occur there - no abrasions on her buttocks, no asphalt chips in her clothes - but maybe she was already dead. "He raped a corpse, huh? Nice guy." Well, there's the other thing. We're presuming rape, but she's got no bruising, no ligature marks, and the only torn clothes were her panties. Don't your boyfriends ever rip your underthingies off? "Nope. Had a girlfriend who liked to, though." Oh, yeah, I forgot about your preferences, Quinn. What got interesting was these symbols and these mutilations to the hands and feet. "Skinwalker killing. Or meant to be." That's what Lone Star are chasing. It's the best lead we got: it seems we got a mad Amerind out there, another Muffin Man maybe, which is why- "Except why is the writing in Arabic?" What? "That writing... where the hell is that damn chip... it says 'Follow the Star' in Arabic. Someone's yanking your chain. Continue, anyway." Yeah, right, kick my train of thought right off the rails. I don't have a cause of death, either. The hands and feet, the slashes to the limbs and the cut to the throat were all postmortem. Close postmortem, but the histamine levels say she was dead when they happened. Plus she was lying in about a pint of her own blood. If he killed her elsewhere, brougbt the body out, then dressed up the scene, that's what we'd see if she was lying as you see her, dead, when he made the cuts. If she'd been alive when he did that to her throat, we'd have about three, four pints of blood on the ground, and a clear spray pattern. "Yummy. Any abnormalities on the autopsy?" Nope. She was a little overweight, had implants in each breast that had been there awhile - used to be a 34B, went to a 36C - cheap cybereyes, signs of minor cosmetic work on her nose, ears and teeth, and had nasal lesions consistent with recreational cocaine usage. She wasn't high when she died, though. Lungs okay, she breathed filtered air most of her life, and there's a little clag in her coronaries: she had enough money for real meat, and all the cholesterol that goes with it. Just very ordinary, nothing unusual. "How about magically?" Why do you think I called you? Frobisher's off sick and Stands-Bravely is on educational leave finishing her degree. That leaves Fuentes and I wouldn't let him investigate his own ass, let alone one of my bodies. "Okay, lemme see..." "Well, she's dead." No shit, Quinn, I did an autopsy on her. She might have been breathing before, but after I scooped all her guts out and stuck her in the freezer she stopped moving for good. "Yeah, yeah. She's been dead what, twelve hours?" About that, yes. "Well, she wasn't scared when she died. Pretty happy, in fact. Maybe a little surprised, maybe I'm imagining that. And she wasn't killed with a spell that I can see. Oh, the killers a cold sonofabitch. I see more of you from her than him, and you just did an exam and postmortem, he laid her and killed her. Or he killed her and had sex with the body. Either way, I'd expect *something*, but nope, he didn't seem to care. I just get this mild disgust." Great, a cold-hearted psycho. Anything else? "Yeah, take a look at the back of her neck, it looks funny." What, astrally? "Yeah. Up a bit, inside the hairline." Give me those scissors and that bag, okay?... Whoa. Guess we got a cause of death. "Cyberspur?" Or a very narrow-bladed knife, but my money's on a spur. Through the nape of the neck into the brain. Death would be nearly instant, but almost no bleeding. Well, I guess that's it. Thanks, Quinn. "What do you mean, that's it? Come on, Jerry. Who was she? You left all that out of the file." Lone Star are on it, Quinn, stay out. "Won't." Yes, you will, or I'll report you. "You wouldn't. Anyway, the cops are already barking up the wrong tree. I'll be good, I won't get in the way, I'll just look around a little, okay?" Okay, okay, her name was Jennifer Pearson and her address is in the book, okay? "Thanks, Jerry. Trust me." When you say that, insurance premiums go up. Get out of here. And keep me informed. +++++end transcript]<<<<< -- Personal Log <19:32:42/05-17-57> ***** Private: Lone Star Seattle HQ, Information and PR dept's (or equivalent thereof) >>>>>[ Sir or Madam, I am looking for information on the suspected bomber of the Metahuman's Year Convention. I have been made aware of a bounty on this individual, and look forward to collecting it. As your good corporation would no doubt be pleased to see this person off the street, I do not doubt that some sort of exchange of information can be arranged. I would like anything you can give me on the human known in Shadow circles as "Boom-Boom", who is believed to be this bomber. I would hope that the fact that I have no official existence in your databases will not be held against me. After all, none of us are in full control of our lives and the circumstances thereof. I can be contacted through this net, and, for obvious reasons, only through this net.]<<<<< -- Ronin <14:02:52/5:18:57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Is that slashing related or what? It's the only semi-magical murder in the past couple of weeks (well, okay, it's the only one with magical undertones). Tell me!]<<<<< -- Cybil <23:53:20/05-17-57> *****INTERNAL: Sheppard-Intrepid TO: Joseph Randell PRIORITY: HIGH >>>>>[ +++++Engage Internal Cypher: Continental Sir, I am mailing you on the behalf of my superior who is currently indesposed. He needs a response regarding the kidnapping of one of our Linked Pairs. He also again requests that all of our less public assets be removed form this area post haste. If we suffered a sufficent security breach so as to have the usefulness of one of our agents compromised so easily, there must be some sort of problem. We have already shut down all non-essential security related matrix nodes. We request permission to take the necessary action.]<<<<< -- Elayne Silver <23:57:43/05-17-57> Internal Security SubDirector Sheppard-Intrepid Inc. *****INTERNAL: Sheppard-Intrepid TO: Elayne Silver PRIORITY: LOW >>>>>[Ms. Silver: The matter is being dealt with. The "breach" was both anticipated, planned, and necessary. Please do not involve yourself any further in this matter.]<<<<< -- Joseph Randell <00:01:22/05-18-57> ***** PRIVATE: Cybil >>>>>[I wish I knew. At first I figured that it didnt fit the M.O. for the other murders. I've just now downloaded all of the most recent traffic across ShadowLand, MagicNet, JJ's, and FirstLink nodes. Im runnig some cross references to see if there were any other inferences to the incident. I kicked this at my contact at LSS who was surprised that I knew about it. They were considering calling me, but decided to hold off until they got a more firm link that there was magic involved. I should know in a couple of hours or so. For now Im going back to sleep If there is a link, I dont think Ill be seeing my bed for a couple days in a row, and Soy Cafe just does not sit well with my metabolism.]<<<<< -- Kor <04:07:27 / 05-18-57> ***** PRIVATE: The Mighty Quinn >>>>>[Might you be willing to share your research results into the most recent killing? I spent a couple of weeks working with the Star in conjunction with a since closed investigation. The assailant(s) -- we believe, at least for my case, that there was a pair of killers, one male, one female, who killed, it seemed, during a ritual magic ceremony. I am still under contract so there is some information that I cannot share directly with you, but those facts that I do have that arent covered I would be more than happy to give in retur for information on what you may / may not be currently working on. Am I making sense? I hope so. Im going back to bed. A frame is set up to page me if you mail me back so I should get it nearly right away. ]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <04:13:33 / 05-18-57> ***** PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind >>>>>[Howdy there, Mr R. Stormwind. Weren't you telling another Jason off a while ago? :) Something about citing him and Commander Drake for indecent exposure? But that was a long long time ago in a galaxy far far away. Okay, you want some info, I'm willing to share except this is kind of private, and I'm involved as a facour to a friend. Dead girl, made to look like a Amerind-involved skinwalker killing except for ritual cuts to the arms - a warrior thing, the way some people take a guy down a piece at a time. Thing is, that's an old East Coast stunt - Delaware, Huron, that bunch - and skinwalkers are more a Navajo-area belief. And someone wrote "Follow the Star" in her own blood, in Arab script, around the corpse, which isn't any Native hallmark I know. She was killed with a spur or similar to the nape of the neck, very professional, she never knew what hit her as far as I could tell. Lone Star are acting like they have another Muffin Man out there, and are hooked on the pseudo-tribal aspects. I think it's misdirection. There certainly wasn't anything magical about her or her death, though. I'm checking it out anyway because I'm bored ]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <08:53:32/05-17-57> *****PRIVATE: Lynch, Lilith >>>>>[+++++engage secret_decoder_ring You still alive and okay out there? Not like you two to go quiet. Did you find out who Blade's dead spook was? Need any help? Around to bail me out if I have problems? Enquiring minds want to know... +++++disengage secret_decoder_ring]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <12:32:34/05-18-57> *****PRIVATE: The Mighty Quinn >>>>>[+++++engage secret_decoder_ring Jason and I are fine. We're at... well, never mind. Laying low, and getting some stick time in our logbooks in the meantime. So many tails to wax, so little time... That dead guy is Mr Gone. We could barely confirm there had been a shooting at the eatery, let alone ID the body. So, it's a little heavy and even Coppinger hasn't admitted to knowing anything. We know it wasn't Agency, but that leaves a lot of possibilities. Means we can't go home, though: back to Georgetown? No thanks. Lynch is back to his usual self, much to my relief. We're okay, but we can't play John Wayne in a hurry. Tip us off if you need us. +++++disengage secret_decoder_ring]<<<<< -- Lilith <12:36:43/05-18-57> *****Private:Joshua >>>>>[I am definately interested, when where and how much? I am a physical adept, with some quirks(who doesn't have em) and am interested in some fast cash. Gimmie a note back here if ya want me]<<<<< -- Wolfen *****Private:Dancer >>>>>[Hmm, you have to OK runs with your dad huh... Well, see if you can run this one by him Working for Joshua, doing who knows what, and getting paid for it :) I am interested, and have already replied, wanna join me? I can defend you, if you need it, and if not, well, you can defend me sound good? If anythings gets too hot, I can always call dad.. I may get in trouble, but at least we'll survive :) Let me know if your interested, I'll let Joshua know whats up when I hear from you. BTW, aside from runs and jobs, wanna go out for dinner some time? Maybe a movie afterwards?]<<<<< -- Wolfen *****Private:Dancer >>>>>[If your job comes through, I'll take that over this one with Joshua. I don't know the guy, after all, and I know you. I just have to tell you though, you dance great. When I saw you moving to that song, I almost wanted to join in, but I can't dance. Anyway, reply soon, I'm waiting to hear from you :)]<<<<< -- Wolfen *****Private:Dancer >>>>>[You have the looking good part down, at least :)]<<<<< -- Wolfen *****Private: Lynch >>>>>[How goes things hidding out? Ever find out who's gunning for you? I did a little checking, but didn't find anything. If you need some help just drop me a line. Hope all your other plans are going well.]<<<<< -- Blade <10:20:20/05-20-57> *****Private:Ronin >>>>>[Ronin- I am officially unable to discuss the events of this case, but unofficially I can tell you that a cybereye or two were found among the wreckage, close to the point of detonation, on a heavilly cybered troll. So far, not enought was left of him other than chrome to piece together an identity. The reason this eye is so important to us is because it has a photograph on it, possibly of the killer. As for wherabouts info, I am unable to give you anything, officially or not. Boom-Boom? Gives us an idea to his personality, eh? So, got any other info? We might be able to help each other. You give me the tips, I give you the info, we bag the baddie BTW, this message never took place. ]<<<<< -- Who Am I? *****Private:Ronin >>>>>[We do not deal with unregistered citizens, much less on classified cases. I am sorry, but in order for us to recognise that you exist, you must register with the UCAS government and recieve a SIN. Untill we have records for you, we can not discuss anything of importance to the street corner we are located on, much less this case. The Metahumans Year Convention was a sad event. The loss of so many lives deeply saddens all of us, but I warn you, do not interfere in this case, or you will be considered an illegal alien and wanted criminal. Thank you for the concern, but we have it well in hand.]<<<<< -- Mr. Kelling <12:45:54/4-20-57> Detective Lone Star *****PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind >>>>>[Hey, Mr Stormwind, you were interested in that dead girl? Well, I checked around a little. Since you're a registered security provider with a pretty good rep, I figured I'd share what I had. First off, the Star aren't particularly chasing it. They rousted half-a- dozen guys "with links to occult Native magic", then let them all go again, and now there's only one guy on the case and he's gone on two weeks' leave. I guess this isn't a priority case Someone else does think it's important... but I'll keep you in suspenders on that for the moment. Secondly, the Arabic stuff means nothing: following stars is a Judeo- Christian thing. The mutilations don't match up for any particular magical or Native American tradition - the killer borrowed his ideas more from movies than anything else. I think this might be a professional hit dressed up as a wacko's splatterjob, and someone's tipped the Star off to keep quiet. Except my pathologist buddy made the mistake of asking me to look and now I'm interested. Thirdly, I checked her apartment. Since the cops have so much interest in this, they just cursorily tossed the place, then slapped tape over the door and left it. I used the window instead. Sorry if the vid's a bit jerky, I was using a handicam and I've never really got the hang of the damn things. +++++begin video The view comes slowly into focus: a somewhat jumpy image from a cheap, handheld camera, looking around a comfortable apartment. "Nice place." says Quinn's disembodied voice, as she closes the window - you see a blurred reflection of Quinn in the glass, a blonde woman of average height, wearing a bulky black jacket and a Timberwolves baseball cap - before she turns, begins checking the living room. "Luxury model home entertainment centre. Surround-sound musical playback, hi-res trideo, simsense feed, Matrix access, the business." The terminal powers up and Quinn begins flipping through screens. "Nobody's sent her any messages since the cops checked it... about a day after she died. What's her taste in movies like? Gah. Execrable. Not one classic in there. Most watched are the 2038 remake of _Casablanca_, and _Butler - Gone With The Wind III_. She likes romance and studly male leads with rippling pectorals. Music, even worse. I bet the bedroom's got a picture of a beefcake bozo cradling a baby on the wall." The view bumps as Quinn sets the camcorder down and continues checking the terminal. "Password, password, who's got the password? I don't. Never a decker around when you need one. Wait a minute." She rummages in the remote control, removing the battery cover. "Gotcha. She couldn't remember it so she wrote it down. Home shopping network... nope. Personal mail, nope. Banking... print that, okay, she gets lots of cash and spends it as fast as it comes in. Likes expensive lingerie, wine, natural food." The terminal screen blacks as Quinn picks up the camera again. "Okay, her bedroom. I was right about the tough-but-tender beefcake. Double bed. Quite the aura, she did some enthusiastic entertaining there. Bedside table... boy, three boxes of rubbers, two empty. No handcuffs, nothing too out of the ordinary, just a stack of postcards." She picks them up, removes the elastic band, riffles through the stack. "About fifty. All tourist 'Greetings from Seattle' types, all different writing, all different names, all addressed to somewhere in Illinois." Quinn tucks the cards into her pocket. "Nothing under or behind the drawers. Lots of expensive underwear. Under the bed..." The camera is set down for a few moments as she vanishes from view - there is a muffled sneeze - "Nope. Dust, a couple of pairs of shoes, not much else. Bookcase... this may take a while." You hear the sounds of Quinn leafing through books, checking each in turn for hollowed pages or notes in the binding. "Not much of a reader, mostly current romantic fiction. Closets... gawd, if I ever wear stuff like this, someone shoot me in the head until I agree to take it off. Guess she was a closet elf or something, the sort who think the destiny of the Elven race and its wannabees involves robes, lyres and wooded glens. Why do all the Elves I know think their destiny involves cyberware, automatic weapons and urban combat zones? Oh, her personal defence technology." Quinn shows the camera a shoebox: inside is a Fichetti 500 pistol, chrome-plated with mother-of-pearl grips, still in its original packaging with an unopened box of 7mm caseless next to it. She racks the slide back, peers into the breech, sniffs, sticks a thumb in the chamber and squints down the barrel. "Shipping plug's still in the muzzle, weapon's never been fired. She bought it a year ago according to the permit in her file. Ammo is commercial FMJ. Lasersight battery is flat." Quinn tucks the pistol into her jacket. "Never know when a clean gun might be useful, even if it is a good-taste disaster zone." "And this is the kitchen. Enough manual stuff to let her prepare her natural stuff, but a good automatic for when she just wanted myco and nutrisoy. Anything nice in the icebox? No beer, no pizza, no hot dogs, Tir Taingire wine - that stuff's rat urine, I wouldn't put it on my fries let alone drink it - some decidedly tired vegetables, and a plate that probably had steak on it until some patrolman helped himself to it. Oh well, they left one of her apples." Quinn proceeds to take the aforementioned fruit. "Not bad." she says between mouthfuls, checking cupboards - turning suddenly. "Company." she says softly, setting the camera and the half- eaten apple down, then drawing a huge blued revolver - an antique, if the wooden grips are any guide. She seems to blur, then vanish altogether, as you hear faint movement from outside: the sounds continue for several minutes, until the door opens and a middle-aged man with receding hair, wearing a dark suit, walks into the kitchen. He frowns at the camcorder, then his eyes settle on the apple and he begins to reach for one hip. The soft click behind him makes him freeze, and he slowly raises his hands. "Good. You just heard a Smith and Wesson Model 29 being cocked. You ever hear of those?" "Forty-four Magnum revolver, out of production since 2012, ruins your whole day if you get one in the head." the man says calmly. "I'm going to take out my firearm, make it safe, and place it on the worktop. Then I'm going to take out my ID. Are you happy with that?" "Ecstatic." "My partner's outside, by the way, so don't be surprised if-." "You're here alone." "Well, it was worth a try." The man slowly, carefully draws a Manhunter automatic, removes the magazine, and locks the slide back: thumbing the chambered round back into the clip before laying both on the counter. "Then there's the P27 compact in your ankle holster, but we'll leave that where it is for now." says Quinn, shimmering into view behind him: her pistol aimed just above his head. "Nice to deal with a pro for a change. Don Trenton, Centre for Disease Control." He brings out a wallet, opens it, holds it up to Quinn. "Show the camera." The camera takes a second to refocus on the ID card, before it settles on it: the man's picture and assorted other info. "Okay. Put your piece away." Quinn lowers the hammer of the revolver, holsters it: Trenton loads his Manhunter and tucks it away. "So, if you don't mind me asking, Miss...?" "Rodriguez. Susan Rodriguez, best known as The Mighty Quinn, of nobody in particular at the moment." "Do you prefer Susan or Quinn?" "It's only one step from Susan to Sue or Susie, and that brings out my tendency for projectile vomiting. Quinn, please. You smoke?" "No, thanks. Go ahead, though. You're a magician, right?" "Yep. I get any trouble, I'll just write a Cure Lung Cancer spell." Quinn lights up. "My line of work, I'm gonna live long enough to get cancer? Anyway, before you ask, I'm here because the occupant of this place got herself snuffed in a novel and messy manner, and the cops seem to have been persuaded to look the other way. You? She didn't have any interesting diseases. I know, I saw the autopsy tape." Trenton shrugs. "CDC doesn't just handle bacteria. She was from one of the refugee centres outside Chicago." "Ah. But she wasn't a bug either." "May have been connected to one, working for one... enough to worry us. Did you find anything?" "You first. What were you looking for?" Quinn chuckles. "Look, Quinn, I'm a government official, and you're breaking and entering at the very least. If I call the cops, you're in deep shit." "So arrest me. Oh, and let me see your warrant." She grins, as Trenton winces. "Okay, okay, this is only semi-official and I'm playing a hunch. So this dead girl has relatives in the Chicago quarantine camps, and she's to and from there a lot. CDC monitor things like that. We worry." "You should." "Yeah. Anyway, we start watching her, blam, she's dead, killed by some whacko Native American apparently tagged 'Baguette Boy'"- he looks disconcerted as Quinn howls with laughter. "Baguette Boy, Muffin Man. Did we have a 'Spear of Satan' too? We've had a rash of nutcases. Sword of God, the late. Muffin Man, the late. Hand of Glory, an Aztlan front. Judas, who knows? Someone wanted to hide a hit and used the loonies for cover." "Right. We got Baguette Boy from the cops. They might have been joking." "Or covering up. The case is closed in all but name." Quinn sits on the worktop, jeans-clad legs swinging. "That worries me. Anyway, I figured it would bear investigation." "It would. You're clued on all this, right?" "Sure." Trenton looks surprised as Quinn clicks the kettle on. "What are you doing?" "Making coffee." "Are you crazy?" "No, it's good coffee. What, she's going to miss it? Want some?" "Oh, shit, okay. The camps?" "Does this address - " Quinn recites the address from the postcard - "mean anything?" "Sure, it's the postal address for the main quarantine area. Why?" "Just a hunch. Gotta go." Quinn pours into her mug, wraps the rest of the coffee up and pockets it. "Hey, wait up. Can we work together on this? Since I guess you aren't going to lay off snooping around even if I ask you to..." "Got Matrix hookups?" "Sure." "Shadowland?" "Yeah, we can get backchannel access." "Use that. I'm The Mighty Quinn, okay? And keep it quiet, there are enough spooks on there already. " "Yeah, yeah. You got anything to share?" "Pro killing, spur to the back of the neck. Some other stuff I want to check myself. I'll let you know the results, though. See ya." Quinn clicks off the camera. +++++end trideo Interesting, huh? Plenty of food for thought. I'll do some checking. Let me know if you still want to be kept informed, else I'll stop cluttering your mailbox, and clue me in on anything you find if you do any searching yourself.]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <17:00:32/05-20-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[That offer still open? Or have I been used and discarded again? I could start to get tired of that.]<<<<< -- Easy <21:50:32/05-20-57> ***** PRIVATE: Easy >>>>>[I make it a point not to just use people and discard them to the side. Someone must have dropped the ball on that one. I put in a word for you with a friend. He was supposed to have moved that information along to the people doing the hiring. Im sorry about that. Let me check again to see what the deal is. They might have filled up all the positions and word never got back to me about it. Send me another copy of your resume. That will help things get moving along a little faster.]<<<<< -- Kor <21:42:16 / 05-20-57> *****Private:Joshaua >>>>>[ Let me intro my self...our names are Death Jestor and Saint Malice. we are 2 what you would call "sammies". We can handle most any thing.. any level of gun play. I (Death Jestor) did some work for Freddy Fryp and Fryp Sec, some time back, untill Freddy got waxed. St. Malice is a freind of mine, hope you don't mind trolls. If you have any questions contact myself or Tommy Fung (of Fung Import/Export and Security Company Inc. in Hong Kong.]<<<<< --Death Jestor (17:38:30/05-20-57) *****PRIVATE: Blade >>>>>[Howdy, Blade. Lilith and I are keeping a low profile, in some ways, and a suicidally high one in others. Whoever wanted me dead hasn't gotten to me through the armed forces. No surprise, but still informative. Guess what? Nobody knows what happened at your little incident. Lone Star say nothing happened. No bodies turned up in the morgue. The detective on the trideo says they pulled old library footage, and he was on vacation at the time. The busboy they interviewed was stabbed to death in a "random street killing" three days after the Incident That Never Happened. Not Feds or Company. Not Agency. That still leaves more minor-league intel groups than you can count, unless you take both boots off. Dontcha just love government work? Thanks for the offer of help: same goes for you. I don't forget friends. As for other plans... right now, I'm under orders to take a vacation. So Lilith and I are refreshing our skills and polishing some tails.]<<<<< -- Lynch <22:13:25/05-20-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Okay. Thanks for the answer, at least. I'm a specialist in, to be blunt, killing people. My social graces aren't too good, but I do my best to compensate with ability. My resume... I don't have one as far as Seattle goes. Most of my practice was hunting a group of dirty cops in Fort Worth. Believe me, I had my reasons, but it isn't something you advertise. I am good at what I do, but I need a chance to prove it here. Right now I'm dancing in a sleazy club, because it's that or starve. You understand I get a little irritated with people who offer me work and then go quiet? At least you're polite. I'll cheerfully kill Mako if I meet him. He never did tell me what he wanted me to do for him, but he seemed really annoyed that I didn't figure it out, and I don't like being insulted when I was still waiting to be told if I was part of the team, let alone what I had to do. My talents are killing people, either as muscle on a run or as assassination. My weaknesses are that I kill people and I can't handle sunlight, and my social graces are very limited. I was raised in Tarislar and some of the worse areas of D-FW, what do you expect? I never break a deal and I never break my word, and I almost never miss my target. Any help gratefully accepted. If you've never danced tables, you should. It gives you a fascinating view on life.]<<<<< -- Easy <23:18:42/05-20-57> ***** PRIVATE: Easy >>>>>[I've been told that you might have skills that we might be able to use. For some reason I didnt recieve a resume with notification of your seeking a job, but Im willing to over look that for just right now. I've also been told that you are a bit down on your luck. Do not consider this charity, I do not. This is a bit of money to get you out of the place you are currently working, get you stable so that you can show your best at an interview with Serenity. Im not sure where to best use your skills at this time, but it might come to pass that your special talents are needed. Lets try to get together in a few days, yourself, and a few of my staff. Some of us are X-runners, and, if you join our team, you will be able to count yourself in the same group. If you can do this, we might have something for you. +++++ Transfer 3k nY.]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <03:09:24 / 05-21-57> Field Officer Serenity Security *****Private: Who Am I? (some cop) >>>>>[I think we can come to some arrangement. +++++Include photo Boom-Boom Is this the guy? If not, we are wasting each other's time, and I apologise. If so, we can defintiely help each other. I suggest we meet, you choose the location, but don't bring back up. That way we're both safe, if you choose the right place. My employer is happier seeing the elusive mr Boom caught than dead, and I prefer not to kill either (a Shadowrunner with a conscience? Surely not! You're right, I'm no shadowrunner, merely a concerned citizen).]<<<<< -- Ronin <17:28:32/05:21:57> *****Private: Mr Kelling, Detective, LoneStar >>>>>[I meant that I didn't exist in your registered bounty hunter databases. I have a SIN, check out the name Matthew Van Holde. You have to keep up some bulldrek front if you want to live on the street here though, so I took the name Ronin. Real namew are too corporate. I belive it is not illegal to make enquiries into bounty hunting, but if you don't want my help, fine, just say so. There is no need for foolish bluster.]<<<<< -- Ronin <17:35:16/05:21:57> *****PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind >>>>>[Thank you very much. I look forward to the meeting, at whichever time and venue you wish. Please advise as to dress code.]<<<<< -- Easy <17:10:32/05-21-57> ***** PRIVATE: The Mighty Quinn >>>>>[Thanks a lot for the footage. A couple of things of interest. She read. That in and of itself might be important. These days most people either jack it, trode it, or deck it before they would consider pulling out a few pieces of dusty papers bound in leather. I have to admit, even most of my libraries are on chips. Its faster and less trouble. Expensive tastes -- was she a working girl? One of the perps I am after has a cyber shotgun in one of his (her) arms. Balistics were unable to give me a solid lead on which hand it was. Im offering my services to you if you wish them. I am a registered Forensics Mage. I wish I could say I had a specialty, but times do not allow for such things.]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <02:34:31 / 05-22-57> *****PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind >>>>>[Cultural thing on the reading, maybe. I prefer paper to a screen, but then I'm a shaman and computers give me headaches :) A couple of my friends have a lot of old books. I never thought anything of it myself, but you're right. Definite maybe on her hooking. Wardrobe with lots of expensive underwear, lots of high-grade condoms in the nightstand, astral echoes of some heavy traffic in the bedroom. And her income was mostly certified cash, a few thousand thrown in every few days. Might have been dealing, but I didn't even find a personal stash let alone a brick or some BTL masters. Oh, they never found a purse or anything at the scene, and I didn't see one in her pad. May be significant, maybe not. Cause of death was a spur to the back of the neck: neat, precise, lots of guys with spurs out there: pro killing. I'm inclined to think it was by a lover, 'during' so to speak: very de Sade, but it would fit what was left of her aura when I saw it. I only know one guy who had a cybershotgun, and he ditched it when he retired from the shadows. Runs a merc outfit now. Married, three kids. It would be sad if he wasn't so happy. I'm okay on forensic magic, but no expert: any pro assistance welcomed. I'm a coyote shaman myself, if you couldn't guess or hadn't heard. Apparently I'm considered a little crazy. Can't think why. The CDC guy checks out. Part of their magical threats division, meant to be here, who he says he was. Oh, and four bozos turned up, told me to stop asking questions about Jennifer Pearson, and I had to kick their asses. Then I kicked them in the 'nads. Then I asked them some questions and they didn't know much. So I kicked them in the 'nads some more and left them for the cops. Some guy they couldn't remember clearly hired them to beat me up some, paid them with a Crusader and a few hundred each, and didn't tell them I'm a magician. Either a warning or someone who didn't check up much on me. The someone's a mage or has backup. So, like, be careful about asking questions, in case some of those bozos come for you. I'll carry on looking for now, see what comes up. A decker buddy is chasing up friends and family on Jenny, see if anyone is missing her. Any other ideas?]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <17:57:53/05-22-57> ***** PRIVATE: The Mighty Quinn >>>>>[I dont want to get too embroiled in yet another case right now, certainly not adding to the already somewhat monumental workload I am already operating under. I guess thats why they pay me the big bucks (ha). I can allocate some resources in your direction if you have need for them. I have a full staff of deckers and fact finders and a few street contacts kept on semi-retainer...you'd be surprised at what "street people" see. Coyote. I know her well. She's a strange one. One of the older ones. It is said, or once was spoken in hushed whispers around the cook fires, that Coyote truely is insane. Knows more than she is supposed to know. Seen more than even totems are supposed to see. Its also whispered that She left before magic waned the first time. Self-imposed exile. It was not sure she would return when magic did. But she is here. I wonder, sometimes, why that is. Forgive me, I am still hallucinating a bit. I am just now returning from a astral quest. There was someone I needed to find and bring home. If she was hooking, check into her Mistress or Stable Master. She might have been working on her own (if she was using condoms, she likely was...all legal houses have mages on staff to deal with disease and birthcontrol) or working for a smaller stable. You said it was very D'Sade-like. Were you implying that she had been engaged in intercourse when she was killed? I would have expected more of an oxygen deprivation than spinal injury. Odd. It is also said that Bear returned quickly as well. Came to heal the world and found that She could not. Didnt stop her from gathering power but She faultered. Do you mind if I share your result with someone else who has been working on another case? Why do we bother? If the Star can hold on to the Seattle Contract, why arent they doing more to deal with the crime? Maybe nuking them all and starting over would help. Unlikely. What else did you want? I dont remember. +++++ Connection Dumped]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <18:22:48 / 05-22-57> Field Officer Serenity Security ***** PRIVATE: Serenity Mages >>>>>[Someone has been hitting the awakened peyote and summoning again. Three guesses as to who it was and your first 2 don't count. Would one of you go over to the ware house and make sure he's alright? He just responded to some mail from The Mighty Quinn where he mentioned still being under the influence of something that's making him hallucinate. The last time he did this he managed to summon a fire elemental that was much bigger than he was. Luckily the elemental took pity on him and didnt kill him but it did wreck on of my buildings and trashed the skate park on its way out. Merrox and I have already shut down his phone service so he shouldnt be able to get back out of warehouse via the matrix.]<<<<< -- Skuff <18:22:47 / 05-22-57> ***** PRIVATE: Serenity Mages, Serenity Deckers >>>>>[I got him. He's fine. He's still seeing trails and is a little hyper but he is totally coherent if nothing else. I guess you might call him more 'flittery'. Unable to stay with one topic for longer than it takes to finish a sentence or two. He says he started his trip yesterday at 4 pm. That means he has, at most, two more hours of coming down to deal with. Im going to sit with him while he tries to dump his internal memory banks. He wasnt summoning. He was undergoing another astral thingie. Quest? I dont know. When I got her he had Castor and Pollux on full alert. They would have torn me a new asshole if it werent for the fact that he stopped them. Someone has GOT to teach me how to say "stop" in Ojibwa. Either that or someone bloody well needs to teach them damned furr balls spanish! I was down at the old building working on some new security camera modifictions when your mail came through, Skuff. Thanks. He's asked me to say this to the mages -- "Ahhh, now I understand". What the hell is that supposed to mean?]<<<<< -- Trixie <19:03:54 / 05-22-57> ***** Internal: Serenity >>>>>[Congratulations, Jason. Good job. The "Ahhh, now I understand" comment he sent out via Tristiana means that he's initiated, again. That doesn't mean much to those who do not practice, but to the rest of us, it means a lot. I'll bet that last one hurt a hell of a lot.]<<<<< -- Akira <19:21:18 / 05-22-57> *****PRIVATE: Lilith >>>>>[My apologies for taking so long to respond, but the job does occasionally preclude my enjoying ethical and philosophical debates such as ours. I don't feel that you and your fellow agents break the law for amusement, Lilith, but you ignore them when they don't suit your purposes. To me that is rampaging about. I don't expect you to understand, but sometimes the law provides a second chance. Some of my best agents were criminals at one point, and your righteous rampaging would have condemned them to death. The law, not morality or ethics, gave them a second chance that you and Lynch would have denied them. And they have reformed so well that they are now helping enforce the laws they broke originally. This is part of the reason that I am so vehement about my beliefs. Hell, some of them were caught or nearly killed by your agency, and now they are InterPol agents. With new faces, identities, even new sexes in some cases. You defend the UCAS. But you break the very laws you are sworn to uphold in the name of the country. Where my defense of "just following" orders may not hold based on history, neither will the infamous Oliver North defense of "I did what I did to defend the Country." What good can come of breaking the laws of your own country in order to defend the people who live under those laws? When you operated under Executive Order, Lilith, whatever you did was legal. That is just as terrible as the horrors of Abeline, and I am glad those days are over. But operating outside the law now, how is that any less terrible to the people you are supposed to protect? The only difference I see is that the law protected you from orginizations such as InterPol once, and now I can pursue you, and your fellow agents, for your crimes. To me, that is the only difference. Doing terrible things with protection is no worse than doing terrible things without protection. The only difference is that now you have to at least consider the consequences of what you do in legal terms before you and your fellow agents go and do them anyway. So, you are a leopoard shapeshifter then? No wonder your views seem so alien to me sometimes. But Lynch's seem almost as alien and I'm certain he's quite human, if somewhat enhanced. But I doubt that my beliefs are any less alien to you. As for the Leopard Guards at Five Eyes, there was much that I could have done. Lone Star will always be purchasable, because they are a corporation which does whatever it feels like so long as it brings a profit. I find it interesting that Lone Star has thier office of Military Liason in DC, however. Much of InterPol is bought, and I fight against every section that is in every way I can. Most people can be bought, Lilith. But not all people, and not all cops. But there is a lot that can be done legally. Watch and learn. You might learn something of what can be done legally in Seattle. You might be surprised, Lilith, but Special Branch doesn't need your help to stay honest and effective. I have enough power to ensure that, and enough responsibility to use it correctly. That's part of why every Commander of Special Branch is hand chosen and trained by his, or her, predecessor. I have enough power that I cannot afford to pass it on to someone irresponsible, or who is a corporate or national stoodge. The guardians don't need your protection, and I'd sleep much better knowing that I don't have it. Nothing personal, but your organization protecting me makes me ill. Perhaps I'm a hipocrite for saying this, but a wise man once said that "Violence is the last refuge of the mentally incompetent." If you had planned and executed properly, perhaps you could have found the time and leisure to arrest the Leopards. After all, they were all asleep when you found them. And I know from experience that Neuro-Stun and other non-lethal gasses delivered in grenade form or through the building ventilation system works wonders. No violence, and you could have delivered all of the guards to me without killing them. But I use violence when it serves my purpose too, so I probably shouldn't talk. Of course, you were just following your orders. And I thought you knew. Leopard Guards aren't Aztlan, but Aztechnology controled. Morality is not simple, Lilith, even if you think it is. To say murder is wrong is obvious, because it's not called "murder" if it wasn't wrong to begin with. But killing to survive? How about bank robbery in order to pay for the expensive, but potentially life-saving, surgery of a loved child? And BTLs are a "victimless" crime in all but 1% of the cases. I gratefullyleave those legal decisions to those far better qualified than I. Morality and honor are totally dependant on the person, Lilith. Relying on something so variable from circumstance and culture and individual as morality means a very confused compass, to borrow your analogy. The law is set in paper. It can be changed, but until it is, it provides a solid set of guidelines and rules that don't change within a specific culture, and by which every individual must live or suffer the consequences. They are related to morality, but independant as well. As you say, the corporations are independant of this. Which is why InterPol has never actively pursued the corporate presence on the Governing Board, and why the corporations only come to us when they have no other choice. Please don't help me, Lilith. Don't help my agents either. Your help cheapens what Special Branch does and what it stands for. Requiring the assistance of known criminals in order to do my job leaves a bad taste in my mouth where using ex-criminals who have reformed does not. Special Branch is doing quite well without you.]<<<<< -- Commander Drake, InterPol <13:28:39/05-22-57> *****PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind >>>>>[You know, Mr Stormwind, whatever you've been smoking, you should either do some more or cut back. And could you sell me some? :) Thanks for the offer of help. I may need it. I can contribute to the cost if necessary: I'm reasonably solvent at the moment. Spot on Coyote, except he's my grandfather. Tell us coyotes we can't go somewhere, and we want to see what's there. I rode a steel horse up the well and looked. It's cold, and dark, but not empty. I was glad to go home. I don't think it made me crazy, but then everyone already said I was totally whacko. I don't *think* it killed me either, but I could be wrong :) Who would you like to share your info with? I'd like to meet them, if you don't mind. Not being too jumpy, it's just I'm working this for a friend and I don't want to get him in trouble. The de Sade touch is the typical killed-during-intercourse bit: I've seen it written up as shot, knifed, or throttled, and I helped take down one particularly nasty corporate wagemage who used a death touch spell at orgasm. A spur in the back of the neck fits the profile if you didn't want to leave an obvious cause of death: we nearly missed it even at autopsy. Neat, very neat. You sound like the other Jason sometimes. Maybe you and he should work together. He likes kicking the shit out of bad guys too.]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <23:43:23/05-22-57> *****PRIVATE: Righteous and Dana >>>>>[Thank you for the donation. The books have already been purchased. Your donation enabled the purchase of several dozen advanced texts for subjects varying from mathematics to history to magic.]<<<<< -- Valentine <18:33:14/05-22-57> >>>>>[Wanted, grey investigators to look into playground killing. Responses to be made in person at Hilton Tea Room, Seattle]<<<<< -- Ash <20:22:34/05-22-57> *****PRIVATE: Valentine >>>>>[There is no n^ed to thank us. In creating Haven, you have al_eady pa+d the world a thous&ndfold whatever it could hope to give yo`r instit{tion. Thank y!u. Although we may have need of your hospi#ality [a--a] at [n] tonight. +++++SIGNAL ERROR +++++CONTACT LOST +++++TRACE ABORTED +++++WARNING! The traceRoute module has become corrupted and cannot be cleanly terminated. Do you wish to force a termination? y +++++ALERT! Terminating traceRoute will endanger important biomedical control functions. Do you still wish to force a termination? n +++++Terminating traceRoute... +++++WARNING! BFP(4) is no longer functioning. DocWagon is being alerted. +++++ALERT! DocWagon.com is unreachable. +++++WARNING! BFP(2) is no longer functioning. DocWagon is being alerted. +++++ALERT! DocWagon.com is unreachable. +++++WARNING! BFP(7) is no longer functioning. DocWagon is being alerted. +++++ALERT! DocWagon.com is unreachable. +++++Shutting down. ]<<<<< -- Righ%eous and D|na <~ *****INTERNAL: Sheppard-Intrepid TO: Elayne Silver >>>>>[One of our deckers just asphyxiated himself. We are attempting to revive him, but there appears to be little hope. He was dealing with the seepage...]<<<<< -- Warren Kim <22:04:15/22-05-57> Acting Duty Officer Internal Security (North American Division) Sheppard-Intrepid Corp. *****PRIVATE: Commander Drake, InterPol >>>>>[An interesting reply, Commander. We do what must be done, when other means have failed. When we can, we use forcible extradition. Once the suspect (we need better evidence than 'suspect', in fact we need near-certainty, but that's another story) is in custody and properly charged, it's a matter for the judiciary. If they make their extradition too dangerous for us, and their activities sufficiently damaging, we resort to the most definite method of ending their activities: outright murder. Would you prefer us to gloss it as "termination" or "processing"? It is the method of last resort, if only because it increases the risk that we may kill an innocent in error. Your men started as criminals and are now enforcers: congratulations on your successful penal reform policy. I started as an enforcer and am now a criminal, yet I do far more good now than then. Drake, we could disband the Agency today, and all that would happen is the street price of BTLs would drop a fraction, a handful of corporate citizens currently limiting their 'recreational activities' will resume their hobbies, a few corporations and governments will be somewhat less restrained in their actions. What benefit will be gained? Can you point to a single concrete improvement that this would bring to the citizenry of the UCAS? Meanwhile, in the last year, outside the Manchu entertainment, Jason and I have apprehended two serial murderers, killed a third, shut down five narcotics rings, and Jason disabled seven nuclear warheads in the hands of a corporation of dubious stability. Renquist was killing on a lunar cycle, and his appointment in Samara was five months ago: five lives saved. We did send InterPol the file, but apparently there was insufficient evidence to even question him. And we were not sworn to uphold the laws: deliberately. If I had given my word to do so, then I could not do what I so. We act to protect the lives of our citizens, when other means have failed. Amaze me, Drake, with what you could have done about the Aztlan soldiers at the Five Eyes. Impress me with the details of the lengthy sentence Zicahuata is to receive for his criminal activities. Let me know how the law would have dealt with the situation: InterPol only became aware of Manchu when Lynch began attacking it, and your superiors were immediately bought to direct your entire efforts to his pursuit. On past form, to play the legal game we would have alerted you to the situation, whereupon you would have been told there was insufficient evidence to justify an investigation. But, at least, all in accordance with the law. Manchu would have run to completion unhindered. Remind me, again, how this is preferable to the outcome we achieved. I forgot. SIGA was reformed, rather than destroyed, precisely because the law failed to protect our citizens. Special Branch, honest and effective? It's been conspicuously useful in the last two months, hasn't it, Drake? Yes, the citizens of Seattle can sleep safely knowing that their supplies of tortureware chips and mind- altering BTL were being well protected by InterPol. If you had made so much as a token effort against Manchu, I might be a little less angry. You are a stooge, Paul, and if we make you ill that's too bad. While your organisation remains determined to protect the criminals, you will still be part of the problem rather than part of the solution. We will do what we can to free you from that constraint, in the hope that you may actually apprehend a few criminals. Oh, and a few points. There are a total of five active SIGA agents in the Northwest: we committed 40% of our force to the Five Eyes hit. We're a small outfit, Drake, yet we do what we can. Leopard Guard are routinely immunised against most chemical agents, as we have found to our cost in the past: when outnumbered eight to one, we decided to err on the side of caution. Our orders were simply to end Manchu: taking out the Leopards was our decision and our responsibility. And please, Drake, you know as well as we about that clear, total and firm divide between the Aztechnology Corporation and the nation of Aztlan. But, I forgot. Whether it is true or not, it accords with the law, and Aztlan/Aztechnology must be granted all the privileges thereof, since it is treasonous under their law to question the separation. And, lastly, who are you to judge whether Lynch, or I for that matter, are "reformed" or not? If you wish to resort to law, Drake, then produce evidence that links me to any criminal act more serious than a speeding ticket. For that matter, do the same for Lynch. Perhaps we should have done as others do, and maintained a front of wide-eyed innocence, backed by a deep wallet. Of course, _you_ can apply the lowest common denominator, where a man can be legally sentenced to death without trial, in his absence and without appeal: and then that man can be hunted down by you, without further evidence or proof, for summary execution. That is the law you defend, Drake. By our law, Zicahuata is certain to walk away a free man, mocking you throughout, because he is innocent until proved guilty. I wanted to kill him. You have Lynch to thank for his continued survival. Oh, and this may make interesting reading. +++++include file: Yucatan_report.txt +++++include image.file: Yucatan_pictures Zicahuata's distinguished record "suppressing rebellion" would fit him for a generalship in Greater Serbia, or a senior post in the US Army of 2016. Of course, his actions were all entirely legal, nay, laudatory, under Aztlan law. Make sure you pin the medals back on when you release him.]<<<<< -- Lilith <00:53:22/05-23-57> >>>>>[How now brown cow?]<<<<< -- Wankel (and his amazing rotory engine) <22:27:36/05-22-57> *****Private: Wolfen >>>>>[ Physical adept..hmmm....Do you have any problems dealing with paranormals?]<<<<< -- Joshaua <23:01:00/05-21-57> *****Private: Death Jestor >>>>>[ I will be in cantact with you shortly]<<<<< -- Joshaua <23:01:00/05-21-57> *****Private: Blade >>>>>[Please send references. I look forward to your background.]<<<<< -- Joshaua <23:15:48/05-21-57> *****Private: Easy >>>>>[The pay is good for the right people. What is your speciality?]<<<<< -- Joshaua <23:17:34/05-21-57> *****Private: Dashira >>>>>[Dashira. Well now...your rep. proceeds you. I would be happy to have you as part of my team if your interested. The pay is >encrypted< and will include a bonus if completed early. If your interested contact me back in 24 hours. The job is in two days.]<<<<< -- Joshaua <23:19:38/05-21-57> ***** PRIVATE: Easy >>>>>[Did someone contact you about getting together on friday night for an informal dinner? Misha, down town. Dress will be semi-formal. Private room. No weapons.]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <04:26:45 / 05-23-57> *****Private: Joshua >>>>>[Check with these people if you feel the need. I've done a couple long term contracts with them. Lynch Action Jackson Lilith Get back to me on the hiring status soonest.]<<<<< -- Blade <05:30:48/05-22-57> *****Private: Lilith, Lynch, Action Jackson >>>>>[Hope you guys don't mind, but I used you as reference for an upcoming run. Talk to you all later.]<<<<< -- Blade <05:31:30/05-22-57> *****Private: Lynch >>>>>[Whats going on? I haven't heard from you in quite a while. Are you having problems, or have you just not gotten away from Lilith long enough to check your message ? Hope to hear from you soon.]<<<<< -- Blade <05:32:14/05-22-57> *****PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind >>>>>[I'll be there. Thank you.]<<<<< -- Easy <13:00:32/05-23-57> *****PRIVATE: Joshaua >>>>>[I specialise in killing people and breaking things, either at range or up close. I'm pretty good at blending into crowds, too, as long as I know what to expect. Basically, I'm smart muscle.]<<<<< -- Easy <13:04:43/05-23-57> >>>>>[For those of you that doubted (and I have to admit, I didnt expect to ever see the money again) -- My wouldbe attacker from about a month or so ago has started repaying his 'loan'. Last night I recieved a phone call from Warren's wife telling me that she was taking care of the bills for the month and, while they would have to scape by for a little bit longer, Warren insisted that she contact me so that they could start paying me back for my kindness. I guess there is some hope for the (meta) human race.]<<<<< -- Kor <18:15:58 / 05-23-57> *****Private: Ronin, Blademaster >>>>>[Whats the problem? I haven't heard from either of you in the past week. Are you two stil hunting this Boom-Boom guy? Gimme a ring.]<<<<< -- Phobos <21:08:39/05-23-57> *****Private: Action Jackson >>>>>[Hello again. I beleive you have spoken with my employer before...Keaya? He bids you good day sirra. I am contacting you on two notes of interest. Frist I know you briefly were involved with Mr. Tylor Nox, were you not? I don't know on what level but I thought that maybe you should know he is really having trouble in New Orleans right now. He went there looking for someone and has been seen in several fire fights along the way, but our contacts lost track of him two days ago after he went head to head with some gang. Just thought you should know. Second note. I need to hire a Mr. Blade for some work and he sent me to you for a reference. Is there anything I should know about him that I should be concerned about? Thanx for you time, and nice talking to you]<<<<< -- Joshaua <22:19:47/05-22-57> *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[I'm still hunting, as I hope you are. The employer seems to have dropped out of sight, I don't know why. I have been talking to a source at the Star, I think he wants a "you get the guy, I take the credit" type arrangement, and I guess that's cool as long as he gives us good leads. If you have a problem with working for the Star, though, I suppose I can understand that. After all, your occupation is highly illegal.]<<<<< -- Ronin <17:51:19/05-24-57> *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[I'm still alive, but the employer seems to have disappeared. Temporarily, I hope. In any case, we keep looking. I've been talking to some cop at the Star, maybe he can help.]<<<<< -- Ronin <17:45:23/05-24-57> *****Internal: Morgue, Gohei contact points >>>>>[I would like both of you to check in and tell me what is going on. Last report I had from you Gohei you thought you had Orioin. Since then I have heard nothing. Morgue you reported you brought others in are they working out? Also what has happened with Kor and Easy?]<<<<< -- Mako <08:51:42/05-24-57> *****Private: Kor, Easy >>>>>[Sorry I have not been on line for a while. I kinda got sick and then some....friends thought I should stay low for a while. Mako may know who I am. If he does he could be a real problem. Not that he wasn't a threat before but I have always been able to out guess him. Maybe that's why he brought in outside help. I really hope you two are not working for him or I am really screwing myself by trusting you two. Let me know if you two are up to meeting. I will tell you in advance that my friends won't let me go anywhere alone now so I will be bringing at least two of them. Talk to ya soon.]<<<<< -- Orion *****PRIVATE: Blade >>>>>[No problem on the reference: glad to help out. As for where we are... well, we're Somewhere At Sea assisting the Navy, being part of the OPFOR for an exercise - the one Indy was en route to when we hit the Manchu base, oddly enough. Busy, busy, busy, but at least we're hard to get at here.]<<<<< -- Lynch <18:43:32/05-24-57> *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[Hmm, how 'bout we do this: you talk to Ls but never mention me or that you even have a Decker on it. If this LS person can help us get our man, which leads to the money then go for it....but just don't mention me. And yes, it is illegal...if I get caught that is. Laterz.]<<<<< -- Phobos <15:51:10/05-24-57> *****PRIVATE: Orion, Kor >>>>>[I was enquiring with Mako about a job. He didn't tell me whether I was part of the team, nor what the job was, but insulted me for not getting on with it. As far as I know, I could have been hired to kill you, but nobody bothered to tell me. I got tired of him insulting me without paying me and told him where to insert his job. I'm willing to meet you, Orion, provided there's some paid employment in it. Sorry to be mercenary, but times are tight. Someone lent me some money, which helped me out a lot, but I still need to find a way to make more and repay the loan. Pick somewhere we can meet armed: I don't intend you any harm, but it sounds like you may have hostiles coming at you.]<<<<< -- Easy <23:24:52/05-24-57> *****PRIVATE: Easy, Kor >>>>>[Fair enough. Kor if you wish we can all meet at >encrypted<. I am still not trusting anyone farther then I can throw Dunkazel but you two seem OK. Easy, I got money if you need a loan. All my work I fund myself. Occassionally I do a little data theft when I need Nuyen, but if I hear of anything I will keep you in mind. I'll buy dinner I owe you. Oh, dress nice.]<<<<< -- Orion *****PRIVATE: Commander Drake, InterPol >>>>>[Oh, dear, Paul. You seem to have upset my fiancee I'm sorry to hear we upset your stomach. Never mind, corrupt police officers give us extreme nausea too. One point that's a little too close to Lilith for her to mention. Yes, you can take a man and remake him. You can wring his brain out, destroy his old personality, then implant a new one. You can turn a snarling psychopath into a simpering monk, or vice versa. That's what the Doctor specialised in, back in the old days of the Agency. You still destroy the man. Instead of killing him, you rip his brain out a cell at a time, then rebuild it in the shape you want. You play God with the mind of another being, the one thing a man can truly claim to own. That's a rather sore subject, Drake, for some people who've had this done to them. A man should accept responsibility for his actions, should he not? As Lilith said, if we can we bring in alive: more of a deterrent, more effective. Make that too hard, and we choose between killing and letting go. You only see the first: there are quite a few of the second whose files gather dust in InterPol's archives. What does a suspect have to do to fall into Special Branch's purview, Paul? I only ask because you, at least, might get results.]<<<<< -- Lynch <23:21:31/05-24-57> ***** PRIVATE: Easy, Orion >>>>>[Ill be there. Im bringing pretty much just me. I was unable to find anyone that I trusted to come along, and, well, I dont think I need a baby sitter tonight. Easy -- So Jason got a hold of you? Excellent. From what I gathered, he's scrambling trying to find a way to fit you in with his security company. There isn't a lot of call for people in your line of work.]<<<<< -- Kor <23:01:43 / 05-24-57> ***** PRIVATE: Orion >>>>>[I'd like to get a chance to talk with your Bear Shaman. If you could arrange that, it would be greatly appreciated.]<<<<< -- Kor <23:03:16 / 05-24-57> ***** PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[Sure. No problem I'll ask Kodiak to join us. I will probably bring Black Cat also he would insist.]<<<<< -- Orion *****PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind, Serenity Security: Don Trenton, CDC >>>>>[Okay, a few more leads. First off, Jennifer Pearson's only living family is her half-sister, one Anya Reynolds, age nineteen, currently in the Calumet City refugee camp outside Chicago. More on that angle in a moment. Next up, her, ah, profession. The girl was an indie. Quite expensive, very choosy, worked a couple of uptown clubs. Had a steady boyfriend who might be a lead, some pimp I was asking remembers him quite well: the boyfriend knocked four of the pimp's teeth out when he was trying to get Jenny on his string. I think he'll be worth trying to find: here's the best I can do for a picture. +++++include graphic: boyfriend.gif Not much help, especially since he's apparently from out of town. Did "move like a wireboy", though. Punched pretty good, too. Neighbours guessed she was quietly on the game, didn't mind because she was quiet and discreet and the marks well-behaved: one guy was a customer anyway (good thing his wife was out while I was asking questions). The boyfriend turned up at irregular intervals, stayed a few days, skipped again. Didn't seem to mind her profession, was quite polite to the other resident when he came around, just said "come back tomorrow after I've gone". And a quick check on those cards: they're all to people in the refugee holding camps outside Chicago, and my decker friend says they're from people who check out as still inside the Zone. That worries me. In fact, that worries me a lot. I'm going to go check this Reynolds girl out and see if she knows anything. Could someone with more clout than me run a check on these names? +++++include postcard_names.txt See if those SINs are in use. If so, we have someone smuggling live bodies out of the Containment Zone. Thinking about the implications of that makes me feel a little nauseous.]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <11:40:42/05-25-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor >>>>>[THank you for setting me up with Mr Stormwind. I don't know if he's going to be able to use me - as you say, security companies don't usually need assassins - but I try to be versatile, and contacts are the next best thing to work. He lent me some money, too, so I'm covered for a while.]<<<<< -- Easy <11:20:33/05-25-57> *****PRIVATE: Kor, Orion >>>>>[I'll see you there, Orion. I don't need a loan, I need the money to pay off someone else: what I really need is work, and it sounds like you don't need to hire me: but maybe you know someone who needs my talents.]<<<<< -- Easy <11:14:32/05-245-57> *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[ Contact me as soon as you can, at >>contact point<<, I think I've >>>>>got a lead on BB. I was showing the pictures we've got to some gangers I know. Their territory is down by the docks, and they reckon they saw BB going into a warehouse down there a couple of nights ago. They boosted the shipping manifest for me (they owe me some favours), and you'll never guess what's being kept in the warehouse. Among other things, fraggin _C-4_. There's been some sort of security guard strike though, so the place is wide open. According to the files in the dockmaster's office, the owners have contracted for some private security, but the gangers said that they haven't seen a thing. Phoenix went in on the astral, and she thinks she saw BB. She got chased off by a spirit though. She says she could proably have taken it, but she didn't want to alert whoever summoned it before we were ready to grab BB on the physical side. If we can get any sort of confirmation, I want to move tonight or tomorrow.]<<<<< -- Ronin <14:13:11/05:26:57> ***** Internal (Renraku internal e-mail): Captain Toshiro Hoshida, Renraku Internal Security Forces >>>>>[ Captain, you must ready your force for action immediately. The runaway Van Holde is due at a certain warehouse tonight or tomorrow. You must first establish which warehouse is involved, and then be ready to hit the place. The following is part of a message from Van Holde (who now refers to himself as "Ronin", which seems appropriate) intercepted by part of our computer security unit on the Seattle Shadowland message service: ...the shipping manifest... what's being kept in the warehouse. Among other things... _C-4_. There's been some sort of security guard strike though... According to the files in the dockmaster's office, the owners have contracted for some private security... If we can get any sort of confirmation, I want to move tonight or tomorrow. This information should enable you to narrow down the number of possible sites. I am sending the computer specialist who found this information, one Amelia Gerrard, to meet with you at a convenient time of your choosing. She will be attached to your team for this operation, and I suggest that you make full use of any further information she can intercept.]<<<<< -- Shosuki Matsidu <14:27:44/05:26:57> Commander, Internal Security Renraku Seattle *****Private: Ronin >>>>>[Ok...what is the address of this building. I wanna see if it is connected to the matrix in anyway. If it is I might be able to take a look see through their security cams. Also, about moving on him. I must tell you: I'm not the greatest with guns, though I can use one if I have to. Lets just say I doubt I would be the one to go one on one with em. Though I might know someone who can help us. Don't worry about loss of NuYen on your part..I would cut him in on mine. Laterz.]<<<<< --Phobos <22:45:00/05-25-57> *****Private: Forte >>>>>[Lookin' for some business bro? I got some NuYen for ya if yer upto it. Need ya to help me and a bud out when we go after this Boom Boom guy. We would like him alive, but dead is fine if that is all we can get. The pay is good, contact me at >>encrypted<< for more info. Laterz.]<<<<< --Phobos <22:46:32/05-25-57> *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[ The address is >>address<<. We need to move quickly, but if you can get another guy for back up muscle in time, good. I don't want too many people going in, I prefer to work with just one other, a mage usually. The way I want it this time, Phoenix and I would go in, find BB with Phoenix's detection spells, and then grab him. If he's got backup, we just avoid them. If this guy you want to bring in can handle a sniper rifle, it would be good to have someone on overwatch, keeping any strays from joining in and distracting any guards. Bring him along to the meet at >>encrypted street corner<<, around 24:00. We'll start the run from there, if you've checked out the matrix end.]<<<<< -- Ronin <15:37:06/05-26-57> [Damn these time zones.] *****Private: Who Am I (a cop of some description) >>>>>[ It looks like we've found BB, and we're off to get him tonight. I will deliver him to >>LoneStar station location<<, probably around 04:00 or 05:00 tomorrow. Have someone ready if you can, I'll have a note explaining who he is just in case. I'll also be wearing rubber gloves, so don't go getting any funny ideas.]<<<<< -- Ronin <15:48:17/05:26:57> ***** Internal (Renraku internal e-mail): Commander Shosuki Matsidu, Renraku Internal Security Forces >>>>>[ Commander, our back-up team has taken Van Holde. He is being held in the surgical unit, for cyberware recovery surgery. Unfortunately, the primary team has been eliminated, apparently by the same man as bombed the recent Metahuman's Year convention. This individual is being held by LoneStar officials at >>station<<, though we have not yet pursued any retribution against him. Do you desire such an operation? Your decker was invaluable in arranging the success of the back-up team, and we hope to use her services again in future.]<<<<< -- Toshiro Hoshida <14:27:44/05:26:57> Captain, Internal Security Renraku Seattle *****Internal (egret shaped watcher talking to): Phobos >>>>>[Help me! Matthew has been taken. I don't know what happened to your back-up guy, but some 'raku goons were waiting for us when we dropped off BB and his minder to the cops. I don't know whether Matthew is alive or dead, but I do know that they took him alive. I'll give you all the cash he and I are due from Blademaster if you can find him and, if he's alive, free him from Renraku's clutches. I'm available for free magic support too. Please, I'm desperate.]<<<<< -- Phoenix <13:24:42/05/27/57> *****Private: Forte >>>>>[F*ck, hurry over to my place ASAP. It seems that after Ronin turned in BoomBoom, some Renraku guyz nabbed him. A friend of his, Pheonix contacted me. I need yer help man. Pheonix says we got full magic protection if we can get Ronin out. How 'bout it? I don't like to leave friends behind.]<<<<< -- Phobos <22:08:42/05-26-57> *****Private: Phobos >>>>>[I'm on my way, I'll bring a few toys. One question: how the hell are we gonna do this?!? Sure I can shoot people but there are a lot more of them than there are of me...]<<<<< -- Forte <22:11:21/05-26-57> >>>>>[I'm a hungry squatter, chummers, feed me and I talk. About what? This, chummer: I saw some strange drek going down in the docks area last night, I mean, it scared the hell out of me. So I'm down at the docks, right, by this warehouse, and I'm moving along the edge, you know, looking for somewheres out of the wind and acid rain and drek, and I see these five japanese guys coming towards me in the shadows. They're packing SMG's and they've all got the same uniform body armour right? So, drek, I'm thinking, It's a fragging corp hit squad. What the frag do I do? So I back up, just turn and run, and they don't cack me, guess they don't want to alert whoever their target is. So I keep going for a half a minute, round a couple of corners, and just about get bowled by this fraggin Westwind. It stops, and this guy gets out, and he's as ugly as hell. There's this big scar down across the left side of his face, right, and on some guys that's a trademark, or it looks fraggin "rakish", or some other drek out of a romance simchip, but on this guy, it's just fraggin ugly. So he goes "better clear out chummer, there's going to be some trouble here". And I'm thinkin no drek, chummer, no fraggin drek. So I go past, and this chick comes out of the other side of the car, and ye gods and little chickens, she's as sexy as the guy was ugly. She's got this distant look on her face, and she must be one of them fraggin shamans, cause her face goes all like a fraggin eagle, you know, beak and golden eyes and all. She says "they're here", and the guy looks pissed. "We can't pull out" he says "Forte?". He must have gotten an answer, from a radio I guess, cause he says more: "Yes, I know". Then he's looking at me like I'm a demon from hell come to spy on him. So I do my "I'm a harmless squatter" routine, slide off, don't want to get geeked by this guy, not if I can help it. So I'm moving away, and I notice that the retractable fire escape on the warehouse is down, which is strange. And here's where I make my first big mistake, chummer, I climb up the fragger instead of running like hell. I get on to the roof, and I take a look down through the windows up there. Now I've got a fragging good view from up there, and I can move around lots too. Someone else must have had the same idea, cause there's another couple of guys up there too. The first looks ordinary enough, but he's got this gleam in his eye that I don't like. He's dressed all in black, the same colour as his hair. It's for camo I guess, but maybe he thinks it's cool as well, and it's probably as armoured as an armoured thing. He's looking real intent on what's happening down below, through the big windows. The other one looks like a sammy, bodyguard I guess. He's a big mother, wearing what looks like a military surplus armoured jacket, and packing an HK-227. I get a little bit of distance between me and them, and take a look down there. Those corp boys I saw earlier are advancing into the 'house, and they're moving nice and slow, covering each other, and drek like that. I hear a squawk and some tinny radio-type japanese coming from the direction of the other guys up here, and I guess one of them is listening in on the corp freq. Must be some expensive gear to do that, I mean if they're corpers, they've gotta have encryption and drek. I understand some of what they say, it's mostly about "you go there", "Dave, cover Bob", that kind of drek. Then there's something about a wanderer coming here to get someone, but I'm far away from the other guys up here, and I can't hear it all. I glance at them, and the smaller one's looking down there, and he seems confused, from his body language. That makes two of us, I'm thinking, how many damn teams are playing here tonight? So, I'm looking at him and wondering, and suddenly there's this big fraggin explosion, and I'm moving back from the shattering window before I'm thinking, and there's glass flying everywhere, and the small guy is dancing up and down, and yelling "motherfraggers, mess with me, I'll blow you to hell!" (or similar words with identical meaning), and a burst of light autofire comes through a window in his general area, and he's getting down again. By now I'm back at the fire escape, and looking back over my shoulder at the smoke between me and the bomber, when something hits me, and I fly back towards the scene of the action. The ugly guy from the westwind is there, and the chick's following him (chick, now there's a good word for a sexy young eagle (?) shaman (?)). He looks at me like a single word would be enough to set him off and make him kill me, so I just shut the frag up, and wait to see what he does next. And then the chick goes "you know that's not him", grabbing the guy's shoulder. He looks pissed for a minute, like he still wants to take me down, and her too if she gets in his way, but then he looks at her and the anger sort of flows out of him. "North, about two hundred metres, he's moving," goes the chick, and they take off into the smoke towards where the guy was, and I wait for a while, then follow. It's as crazy as hell, I know it, you know it, we all fraggin' know it, but by now I want to know what the hell is going on. So I take a look into the 'house, and there's no-one down there now, except a couple of bodies which I can see in the firelight where a few crates of nutrisoy have been torched by the explosion. So I keep moving, thinking maybe I can sell this story if I see enough (what the frag do you think I'm trying to do now?). The two from the westwind are up ahead, and I can just see them through the smoke that's coming up through the broken windows. The chick grabs the guy's arm then, says "he's stopped, he's got a plan... something to surprise the hunters... I don't think he means us...". "I don't get that much, frag it, I just know where he is," says the guy, "The raku boys are still alive, at least, some of them are." I'm thinking what the hell are they going on about, someone out there might know, cause I sure as hell haven't figured it out yet. So they wait for a short time, then "move!" yells the chick, and pushes the guy east (I think), and there's another explosion. I hear yells from below, then a wail in Japanese ("shades of my ancestors!" or something). Then there's this fireball exploding on the roof, looks like a spell to my eye. Then the fraggin thing grows arms ans legs, and whizzes back down there! There's a shout of surprise, a short burst of SMG fire, and a sudden roar of rising flames. I hear a final yell from below, then a couple of rifle shots from up here, from ahead though, not from where the westwind couple went. Neither of them had a rifle anyways. That's all for a while, so I move towards where the rifle shots came from, trying to stay in the cover of the smoke, and I see the dark-clothed guy, and he's got a hunting rifle slung over his shoulder now. He's walking my way with a big drek-eating grin on his face, and the bodyguard is following behind, watching over his shoulder. I know I've got about three seconds before he spots me, and I'm thinking "Oh _drek_". But then the two from the westwind are there. "Hoi, Boom-Boom." says the guy, and the chick just stands there looking menacing (oh baby, I've seen some menacing looks thrown around in my time, but that's one that'll haunt my dreams and nightmares). The bodyguard spins, lifting his SMG, but goes down to a pair of what look like tranq darts, fired by some sniper on a nearby crane or rooftop or something, I guess. The small guy, must be Boom-Boom I suppose, goes for his rifle, but the ugly guy's hand blurs and his Viper (I think, I'm no gun nut) is spitting fire, and Boom-Boom's left looking stupid as the rifle goes flying. "Frag," he yells, "What the hell do you want from me?". "Justice." says the sammy (he's got to be a sammy, wired as hell from what I've seen) and moves forward a little, holstering the Viper, then he's spinning and sending a roundhouse kick at Boom-Booms head, faster than a bucketful of any fast thing you care to name. Boom-Boom's moving almost as fast though (maybe eighty percent of a bucketful of the afore-mentioned fast thing), and he ducks under the attack, rolls and comes up with his fisted hands out in front of him. They close up again, and it looks like the ugly sammy is just waiting for BB to make a move, which he doesn't for a little while. As they circle, I can see the woman moving around too, but the sammy waves her off, some sort of drek-headed pride thing, I guess. Then the fire thing is back, and its going for the woman, so looks like the pride thing (unless, of course, he meant her to keep watch) saved her from a nasty surprise. She starts to hammer spells into it, but they look like firebolts, so I guess it don't care much. Meanwhile, back with the sammy, this Boom-Boom fragger moves forward, quick, feinting with a jab and bringing his knee up, but the ugly sammy is pulling back, making to block the jab, and swivels back on his left foot to avoid the knee. He comes round in a spin with his arm out, and hammers a backhand blow into BB's lower back as the latter passes him by. BB grunts, keeps moving in the direction he had been going in his little charge, and stops to turn once he's out of range. Another tranq dart flies past where he went through, bouncing off the steel roof, and damn near hitting me. I move back a little, but not so far that I can't still see the action. The fire thing (elemental, I guess) isn't having too much luck, the shaman is singing, like a song of power I guess, and it seems to be shrinking. She looks a little wilted too, but she's winning, I think. She's real close to it, but neither of them is moving, like they're locked in a contest of will. The word "Chud" comes to mind, but I'll be fragged if I know why. Something I read when I was a kid, maybe. I look back to the sammy's clash, and I can see that Boom-Boom's moving a little more stiffly now, and the ugly sammy is making little "come right at me" gestures, like in the cheaper trid actioners. BB obliges though, comes in with a spinning high kick, but the sammy is moving back, and the foot just goes through clear air. As BB comes back around, the ugly sammy moves forward, and BB tries a quick trio of punches. The sammy dodges one, blocks the second, and catches the third in his left hand. Then he's spinning to put his back to BB, grabbing the arm with his right, and pulling BB over his shoulder, all as fast as a Humanis beer-run in Ancients territory. BB slams into the ground, I mean _hard_, and he doesn't get up. Then the sammy's looking straight at me, and I realise my cloud of nice obscuring smoke has drifted away, and, as it were, my hoop is hanging out in the cold night air. The elemental is gone too, and the chick is heading my way. "Does she look happy to see me?" I hear you ask. Nope. After all, she stopped the sammy geeking me earlier, and now here I am again, pissing them off some more. So I take the only option I've got, and jump down through a broken window. That's not _quite_ as stupid as it sounds, the crates that are stacked below reach most of the way to the ceiling, so I've only got a couple of metres to fall, and then I'm hitting, dropping to absorb the impact, rolling to my feet, and running off down the stacks of boxes. I hear the sammy laugh from above, and I think "what a bastard", but what am I going to do? Go beat the hell out of him? Obviously not, instead I get the hell out. I pass a few twisted bodies, those (Renraku?) corpboys, I guess, and relieve them off their SMG's, for which I later got a good price from the local fixer. So, now I've talked, how about that food? And if that sammy from the westwind is reading this, I'm sorry chummer, but you really are that ugly, so don't geek me, okay? I just say what I see. You can feel free to feed me though.]<<<<< -- (Hopeful) Squatter <18:44:52/05:27:57> >>>>>[Wasn't aware squatters had decks.. Or uplinks.. Someone tell you what info to give out?]<<<<< -- IaX <06:11:21/05-27-57> ***** Internal (Renraku internal e-mail): Commander Shosuki Matsidu, Renraku Internal Security Forces >>>>>[Commander, two employees are missing. One left a note about vacation or some such drek, the other's where abouts are unknown at the time. Thought you should know. Probably just took a day off. We'll find them.]<<<<< -- Toshiro Hoshida <08:17:52/05:27:57> Captain, Internal Security Renraku Seattle *****Private:Phobos >>>>>[I got the lady..she's tranced out in the back. She'll have a big headache but thats about it. Here is her security card #. +++ upload card.security.clearance I guess would let ya in the system...but she's just a secretary remember. You want me to nab that squatter that qs talkin'....most likely he is still hangin' around the warehouse]<<<<< -- Forte <08:36:42/05-27-57> *****Private: Forte >>>>>[Thanx. Yeah, thats what it'll do. I still need yer help though. After I do my deed I need you to actually go in and get em. Don't worry about the NuYen, it's covered; if that's what is bothering you. Don't worry, if all goes well they won't have camera feed or security doors. I'll alert you soon.]<<<<< -- Phobos <08:42:21/05-27-57> *****Private: Blademaster >>>>>[Where the hell are you man!?! Ronin got nabbed by some Renraku freaks. I got some sec. codes and I'm sending a friend of mine in after him....but we could still use your help. And if you are wondering, yes, we got Boom Boom and turned hi in to LoneStar. That is where Ronin got nabbed. Pheonix talked to me Ronin's gonna have hius cyber removed surgically, then prolly killed; if the surgery didn't do it that is. We neeed to move now. I am gonna run the matrix and let Forte in. Pheonix says they got him all druged up. An extra person could help. Contact me fast.]<<<<< --Phobos <08:51:21/05-27-57> *****Private:Joshua >>>>>[No problems withy paranormals. I kinda like some of them :) What type of paranormals? Sorry about not getting back to you fast, but I had to catch up on a few things.]<<<<< -- Wolfen *****Private:Phobos, Phoinex >>>>>[I'mm there, I offered security after the run, but ;looks like he got nabbed to fast. Renraku huh, sounds like fun, when and where are we hittin. I might birng my boy along, He's kinda good with a sword too, got some neat tricks :)]<<<<< -- Blademaster >>>>>[IaX, if you want to know wheres I got my deck, you're gonna have to feed me first. If you really care, contact me at >>pay telecom<<.]<<<<< -- (Hopeful) Squatter <10:56:27/05-28-57> >>>>>[My dear Squatter, I don't care.. But.. Like most elves.. My curiosity bekons my mind. +++++ Upload: >>map.c2<< +++++ I've uploaded a map to show you what Pay fone holds 1000nuyen. If yer good'nuff to decode it.. You get it.. But then if yer good 'nuff to decode it.. I doubt yer a squatter.. In any event.. This will pose for an interesting evening.. See who decodes the map first..]<<<<< --Iax <21:42:02/05:27:57> >>>>>[Yeah! Like, okay. A sqautter. With a a deck. Who found shadowland. Riiiight. It took Jenna and I at least 15 seconds to find the Seattle node. Sysopus: You've either let the security get a _little_ slack in the past few months, or your login validator is getting a tad old.]<<<<< -- Jen and Gabe <20:32:53/05-28-57> >>>>>["Get yer' head outta yer ass!"... Well said.. Bravo..]<<<<< --Iax <10:42:02/0527:57> *****Semi-private (easy to intercept): IaX >>>>>[Sorry Elf-boy, I won't be playing your little game. It's proably too late already anyways. Kind of a shame though, that would've fed me for weeks. And yeah, I can decrypt the map, just because I'm a squatter now, that don't mean I always was.]<<<<< -- (Mildly Irritated) Squatter <17:35:02/05:28:57> *****Private: Dashira >>>>>[Ok here is the information I need. There is a man called Drake who has been knocking on doors around our neighborhood and has managed to hurt a couple of our client relationships to say the least. Find out who he is and what he does without leaving a calling card. This Drake BTW is NOT commander Drake from interpol just so you don't get the two confused. I would hate to rattle his cage right now, as I have enough problems of my own. The only info I have on him is he owns a company here in town called Wetworks. You'll have to go on that for a while, sorry. +++++Transfer 5K Ny this should cover fees until I hear back from you.]<<<<< -- Joshaua <19:11:15/5-28-57> *****Private: Wolfen >>>>>[Do you like to travel? I will be waiting for you at >encrypted< at 7 pm tommorow night. If you are interested in th job be there.]<<<<< -- Joshaua <19:14:15/5-28-57> *****INTERNAL: InterPol Internal Communications >>>>>[ CD: Commander Drake SF: Sergent Freeload CD: Drake here. SF: Boss, we've noticed a problem or two with some of the evidence from one of the raids involving Jason Lynch. CD: What problems. SF: There are several minor problems that all add up to one fact: we have to use the sample soon. CD: The sample is decaying, then. Do we have a positive ID on it yet? SF: It's definately male, and it corresponds to 86% likelyhood that it is Lynch's tissue, but we rarely act until we have 95% or more correspondance. We've discounted Lynch's other companions because they are female, and this tissue sample definately isn't. CD: Frag. Ok, start assembling the necessary materials and personnel. I think it's time. SF: Sure thing, boss.]<<<<< -- InterPol Internal Communications <17:30:31/05-28-57> >>>>>[More (vaguely) hot info for you chummers out there, let's hope I get less drek about it this time. What are you guys, elitists or something? "We don't allow squatters on this board". What? Do I, like, violate the dress code? Words fail me. So, here it is. I was in Redmond, hanging around, reading my messages about how I shouldn't be allowed to talk to you superior fraggers (bitter? Me? Not even a little bit), when I get told to move along. The teller's a big fragger, black (armoured? Drek yes) clothing, weird looking plastic pistol, shades and all. So I pull my plug out of the hole in the wall where I've tapped the phone lines, then do my famous "I'm a harmless squatter" routine (again, I'm getting fraggin' good at it), and slide off back to my nice warm alley. The guy watches me go, then turns around and surveys the area. He seems happy enough, and I settle down behind some garbage cans and wait to see what happens next. After all, last time I saw something like this, I got such happy, friendly, postitve responses (yeah, _right_). So he's waiting, and I'm waiting, and then all hell breaks loose. This mil-surplus type truck (you know, like, a big fragger with canvas sides and just a touch of armour) is pulling out of a service road, moving off down the street, and suddenly one of its tyres explodes, and there's this little burst of fire and rubber from where it happened, like a tiny explosive charge. It reels off to one side for a moment, looks like it's recovering, and then it gets hit by a fraggin' Ford Americar (which has to be souped up to survive that impact even vaguely intact). Already lurching, the truck crashes up onto the curb and into a store-front, smashing through assorted hi-fi gear and other goodies. Now I want a bit of that, I've never been above a little looting, but I think I'll sit tight for a moment first, just to see what's going down. And what, you ask, is going down? Since I didn't get no food last time, I ain't telling the rest of the story until someone puts out (as it were). Drop a certified credstick to the value of 100 nuyen, with your net-name encoded on it, in the bin behind >>Downtown restaurant name<<, and we'll talk.]<<<<< -- (Perhaps overcautious) Squatter <12:52:50/05:29:57> *****Private: Joshaua >>>>>[I do not enjoy being led along Joshaua. Your window of oppurtunity to hire me is closing. You have until tomorrow to respond. A runner of my caliber does not sit idle.]<<<<< -- Blade <05:20:20/5-29-57> *****PRIVATE: Tangent >>>>>[ I need you and your team to do a little job for me. Minimal exposure. There's some equipment in a warehouse that I'm not supposed to know about that I need you to grab for me. It's worth >>encrypted<< for you to grab it for me. Should be minimal resistance, but I need the job done in the next five days. The gear is moving after that. Let me know if you're up for it, and I'll send you all the details. ]<<<<< -- Flux <**:**:**/**-**-**> *****PRIVATE: Lynch >>>>>[ Thanks for the assist, Lynch. I owe you one, _big time_. Basilisk patched me up nicely, and I'm told I have you to thank for that. If you ever need anything, let me know. ]<<<<< -- Flux <**:**:**/**-**-**> *****PRIVATE: Imp >>>>>[ I need a bodyguard for a little while. I know you don't usually do that kinda work, but we go back a ways. I'm in something big, and I'm willing to split it with you if you want to get involved. I'm laying low at >>encrypted<<, doing my best to let the fraggers think I'm dead. Come by, but let me know you're coming first. ]<<<<< -- Flux <**:**:**/**-**-**> *****PRIVATE: Flux >>>>>[ I'll be there in a couple of hours. ]<<<<< -- Imp <11:10:23/05-29-57> *****PRIVATE: Flux >>>>>[ I'm up for it. Meet me at the usual place, 2200, tommorrow. ]<<<<< -- Tangent <11:53:41/05-29-57> >>>>>[Warloc, are you still in town? We should meet so you can buy that drink you promised me. You name the place, I'll name the time. See you soon.]<<<<< -- Sith <13:03:43/05-29-57> >>>>>[Hey Sith. Sorry, things have been hectic lately and I haven't been on Shadowland. Of course I am always up for buying a beautiful lass like yourself a drink. Any place in particular ya have in mind?]<<<<< -- Warloc <12:52:13/05-29-57> ***** Private: Anyone who left a credstick at the squatter's drop point >>>>>[Hokely dokely, Chummeroonies, here's the rest: As I recall, on the last gripping episode I had been threatened, and witnessed a crash. So, I stay where I am, and watch. The guy in black is moving across the road, pulling that plastic gun out and getting it ready for action (I suppose he is anyways, he's pulling back a lever or some drek). There are another two of them moving from similar positions, all converging on the truck where it went into the electronics store. Another gets out of the (now ruined) Americar, pulling out a similar weapon, and a fifth gets out of a station wagon at the side of the road. A couple of guys get out of the cab of the truck, carrying SMG's, but before they can aim and fire, they're going down quickly and quietly. the guys in black are shooting them with what appears to be fraggin' _water pistols_! What the hell, I'm thinking, this is stupid! But its working, so who am I to complain? Another guy sticks his head out the back of the truck, doesn't seem to get seen by the dark-clothed guys, and jerks himself back in again. I wonder if I should warn the men in black, but frag it, I don't really want to get involved, and even if I did, I don't know who to support. The attackers didn't geek me earlier, when they probably should have, but it's like the Raku boys all over again. They didn't take me out becuase they had to avoid alerts, and this could be the same. Anyways, I just wait. The attackers have been moving towards the back of the truck while I was struggling with my moraldilemma, and now four of them are moving out to the sides while the fifth gets ready to open the back up. He pulls it open, then dives to the left as a burst of rifle rounds chews up the road, then keeps moving in a crouch as the others get down and more bullets come through the canvas sides of the crashed vehicle. The bursts continue for about another three seconds, then it all goes quiet. Apparently whoever was inside has run out of ammo, cause two guys come jumping out the back of the truck, one waving a god-damned broad-sword, the other unarmed. The second runs like hell, while the berserker wanna-be screams out some kind of war-cry and attacks one of the dark-clothed ops, cutting the hastily raised water pistol thing clean in half. The target backs off a little, trying to give his chummers a clean shot. One of them takes the guy who's running, dropping him quick just like the guys from the cab, but no-one seems to want to risk hitting their chummer while going after the swordsman, who is swinging again. The target of his wild attack looks a little pissed off by now, and he avoids a couple of swings then moves forward in the space between one sweeping cut and the next. Inside the swordsman's reach, he grabs his sword arm and snaps most or all of its bones with some sort of spinning hold, then slaps what looks like a hypodermic patch on the guys forehead as his victim goes down. What looks from here like a grimace of agony crosses the swordsman's face, quickly followed by dazed confusion. So now that all their opposition is down, two of the ops disappear into the back of the truck, while the third moves the station wagon he (or one of the others) got out of before, and the last two head for me. Drek! I think, what the frag am I going to do now, I'm done for, etc., but it looks like they don't want to geek me (yet). Both of them put their guns away, and pull crusty smelly coats out of one of the bins I'm lurking among. They hunker down next to me, saying words to the effect of "shut the frag up, or there'll be trouble". I guess they're right, so I shut the frag up. I don't want trouble, it just seems to seek me out. I don't ask much. Anyways, the guys in the truck have come out now, each carrying two boxes with what looks like the words "Angel (numbers) mm (words, rocket is one of them maybe) Launcher" on the sides, and they put them (gently) in the back of the station wagon. They wait for a moment, looking around the street, then get in the car, and get the hell out, leaving the two with me behind. I'm wondering why the hell these guys are waiting at the scene of the crime, but I don't want trouble, so I shut the frag up. Don't ask stupid questions that'll get you geeked when you don't need to know the answers anyway, that's my motto (though it's not one that has an application in many situations, I'll admit). So I wait, and watch, and keep my trap shut. After about three or four minutes (insert the usual "it felt like a lifetime" cliche here, if you must), a Mitsi Nightsky pulls up at the corner, and four suit-clad sammies get out, pulling heavy pistols and scouting out the area. One of them speaks into a wrist mounted mike, and after a second or two, another well dressed man gets out of the Nightsky, swearing under his breath (I guess it's swearing, anyway, from his expression I doubt he's muttering about the weather.). The sammies grab a body each, throw them into the back of the truck, then drop in a couple of grenades each. They run back up the street, and the grenades go off. The truck goes up in flames almost straight away, and the sammies get back in the Nightsky. One of the ops, who are still waiting around with me, swears under his breath. I guess he's pissed off that after all that trouble to take those guys down non-fatally, they got geeked anyway. Price of failure, and all that drek, I guess. So the Nightsky leaves, and after another minute or so, so do my friendly watcher-guys. They move off down the street, then disappear into an alley. Seems like a good idea, I remove myself as well. That's pretty much it, actually. I'll be talking to you next time I almost get geeked by sticking my nose in where it wasn't wanted. And thank you kindly for your generous donations.]<<<<< -- (Temporarily appeased) Squatter <9:52:42/05:30:57> *****PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind, Serenity Security: Don Trenton, CDC: Lynch: Lilith >>>>>[Well, I talked to Anya Reynolds. Was rudely surprised to discover nobody had bothered to tell her she was minus one sister. On the other hand, getting to talk to her at all was quite an achievement - the security on those camps is impressive. Don't blame them, so close to the Calumet swamps. I could smell them, and I don't mean with my nose. There's something going on, and I probably want a little help before I storm in alone. Shows how bad it is if I say things like that...]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <18:03:21/05-29-57> ***** PRIVATE: The Mighty Quinn >>>>>[You were that close to Chicago? Are you insane? Did you get a chance to feel the aura around the place? What did it feel like? Whats going on there? Anyone showing any signs of changes? Whats the background count like? Any video footage?]<<<<< -- Jason R. Stormwind <22:37:15 / 05-29-57> Field Officer Serenity Security *****PRIVATE: Jason R. Stormwind >>>>>[Yes, I was that close to Chicago. Within spitting distance of the Calumet swamp. I could damn near taste something... I keep hearing about this Roach shaman called 'The Foul One', for sure the air stank of rotting garbage. Yes, I am insane, at least all my friends tell me so :) The aura sucked. Big-time. That place is *bad*. It felt horrible. Misery and despair and bugs. Made me downright nauseous. As far as I could tell, and I don't really know for sure, they - the Army - were processing refugees. Checking, magically, properly as far as I saw, for infestation or changes, and letting them go if they were clean. About a hundred a day. There's a quarter-million or more in the camps. Go figure. These were the people scooped up running from the Zone, and the ones who get caught alive trying to climb over Big Rubble. Anyone starts to show 'changes', like growing antennae or chitin, a couple of soldiers turn up and administer summary treatment. Blam blam blam, brains on the floor ma'am. The background count... I don't figure that stuff too good. I could still freshen up in the morning and light cigarettes, but I didn't do any real magic. The whole place just made me feel queasy. I'll upload the video when I feel better. I felt so sick from when I was on the north end of the camp, I drank myself into a stupor when I got home and my head's *killing* me now, but the hangover's better than the smell of the Calumet swamp. Grandfather whispers in my ear that I'm gonna have to go in there sometime soon. I hope he's joking.]<<<<< -- The Mighty Quinn <01:02:31/05-30-57> >>>>>[Has that squatter-impersonator been around here again? That overpowering stench of bulldrek seems to be wafting from the messagebase again...]<<<<< -- Jen and Gabe <20:35:23/05-29-57> >>>>>[Back when I was but a wee lad, electronic communication was considered to be a tool of empowerment -- allowing the masses (yeah, I remember homeless guys wandering into libraries to use the public internet terminals -- not that many mind you, but it did happen) to get their voices heard. It's about time the old ideals started rushing back.]<<<<< -- Tobias Dark <20:43:57/05-29-57> *****Internal (Egret shaped watcher talking to): Phobos >>>>>[We have more to worry about, Phobos. The squatter is something more than he appears. I sent a watcher after him to see what he knew about the Raku team at the warehouse, and it never came back, which would indicate that either it never found him, or it did and he had protection. I sent another, then a third. All of them were well conjured, though I can't properly explain it to a mundane. Trust me when I say that they _should_ have found him, all three, and if none did, something is _wrong_. I hope and pray that he is not involved too closely in this. Be careful.]<<<<< -- Phoenix <17:01:22/05:30:57> *****Private:Squatter >>>>>[Sounds interesting, the 1000 outta cover your fee a few times over, so what happened?]<<<<< -- Blademaster