Shadowrun
Shadowrun Play => Play-by-Post => Topic started by: Csjarrat on <06-19-13/0500:34>
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___________________Teafo________________________
Stepping in from the chill October breeze, The Winchester arms is a welcome reprieve from the cold of the British autumn weather and the prospect of a job is a welcome reprieve for your bank account.
An open fire crackles in the corner under the big screen, showing a re-run of yesterdays Manx TT trials and there are a few patrons sat around varying tables, giving the room a low background murmur.
You spot Herb sat at one of the tables nearest the bar supping on a pint of his usual stout, he motions for you to join him. The Barmaid recognises your face, catches your attention and gestures at your usual ale in way of a question as you sit down at Herb's table. He greets you with a warm handshake "How've you been Collin? I got a job for someone with your kind of talents if you're interested?"
___________________Lumen_______________________
The warehouse has an odd stench to it, kind of like fish mixed with diesel oil and far too many years of dis-use to make out which is the stronger.
The cold night air has permeated the building and your breath hangs in front of your pace in regular puffs of cloud.
You've barely been in the room 30 seconds and the poor bastard strapped to the chair had already suffered one hell of a beating, the only light in the room hovering over his bound body and casting a sinister light on his wounds and his tormentor; Your boss.
"WHO THE FUCK IS HE?" Micky bellowed, repeatedly kicking into the blokes stomach. Nothing but groans escaped the captive and he began to bleed profusely from his mouth, his eyes fixating on you after the tenth blow and glassing over.
Fuck!!!!
Micky span around, clearly fuming, cursing the now dead captive for his refusal to talk. Micky storms straight past you, motioning with his head for you to follow him back out into the cold of the night. One of Micky's Lads walks over to the corpse and pushes him over onto his side, starting to undo the restraints.
The small inner door of the warehouse requires you to duck your head under, and the cold of the night time hits your lungs, eliciting a cough. Micky looks out over the Thames, his gaze hanging on tower bridge for a moment, before offering you a cigarette.
Pretty Facking City this is mate. Proud I am to be a Landaner. Thing is, there are too many Fackwits kicking about this end of the facking shithole that think they're better than us. that don't facking realise who's in facking charge. Know what I mean? We been running this part of the East End since before they started building that facking bridge mate, and they still think they can con us out of a quick quid or two.
Micky continues his monologue in his ridiculously thick cockney accent and you begin to lose interest, taking a large drag on the very expensive cigarette you were offered.
The main warehouse door groaned under the strain of the ancient motors, the metalwork clanging and crashing as the door rose up to meet the roof. The dim internal light cast a dirty square of yellow on the weed-ridden concrete of the industrial complex that the Warehouse occupies. The beaten body you saw just minutes ago re-appears, now with it's beaten head bagged and towing several bricks tied around its ankles. Two of Micky's Lads dragged it along the jetty and slung it into the Thames with a heavy splash.
The angry tone of Micky's voice brought you back to the previous conversation
You gone facking deaf or what? Hop to it, Johnny will give you the address... and don't forget, get the facker to pay up.
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Knives pulls his greatcoat in tight around him as he makes his way into the old warehouse in a futile effort to fend off the chill night air. The bloody beating was nothing new to him, just another part of the job, and he looked on silently stoic until Micky leads him back outside. Knives gladly accepts the smoke, “Cheers”.
*The Boss always has the best smokes. I gotta find out where we gets em*
As Micky goes on his rant Knives just nods and stares off into the dark water of the Thames at this hour, until his attention is abruptly snapped back to the conversation. “Huh? Yea Boss no problem. Kick some quid outta some wanker, got it. How much is it this time or should I just keep going till I'm knackered?”
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It's a big contract this one, warehouse. Routing hub for a lot of gear coming into the old smoke. We need these boys alive and paying regularly. Just rough em up a bit, scare em, but damage their ability to put those pretty little fingers into their deep facking pockets and you're out on your arse kid, you hear? Usual rate; 500 for the visit, further 500 if they make a deposit.
Go on, now fack off. Johnny's waiting round front in the van. He'll give you the address.
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"I hear ya Micky, I hear ya."
Knives walks around to the van parked in front and nods to Johnny, "Evenin' mate. What's the good word?"
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The bulky Ork grins a toothy grin at you, his large discoloured tusks accentuating his smile lines
"awright knives, not seen you in a while. how you keeping? Job eee's got for ya is a warehouse, behind on 3 payments. they're out about 5k a month and the boss is pretty twitchy that the competition have got em lined up. The outfit is run by a big fucker. troll. Goes by the name of Gavin. eee's an 'andy lad, knows how to swing a club. depending on shifts, there could be anywhere between 3-10 lads loading/unloading who can help 'im out if eee don't feel like tawking. Here's the address. You know the general area, its about a 20minute walk along the river, or a few quid on the 'tube to the cutty sark stop and a 5 minute walk from there
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OOC: I assume I have my bike nearby.
Knives smiles wide, "Been holding just fine Johnny boy. Oi sounds like this could get interesting, I doubt this bloke will be too keen on talking. Thanks for the info chummer."
The young human waves to the ork as he walks towards his bike. He pulls out his com and loads up his agent and let's it worry about piloting the bike. Once he's within a few blocks Knives will park the bike back in an alleyway and proceed towards the warehouse. He stays in the shadows trying to get a good view of how many folks are inside and keeping an eye out for any obvious cameras.
Infiltration (3) + Agility (6) = 9d6 http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4095472/
1 hit -.-
Perception (4) + Intuition (3) + Vision Enhancement (3) = 10d6 http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4095474/
4 hits
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The drive over was fairly short and uneventful. Your park your bike and gridguide cheerfully informs you that <<Due to high ambient vehicle crime rates, parking in this sector will nullify your insurance. Parking here is not advisable. Have a nice day.>>
The short walk through the streets towards the warehousing takes you past a selection of fairly unsavourable characters, Whores and bruisers hogging the doorways, trying to keep warm or sell their wares.
A few familiar faces nod their respect to you and keep out of your way, and you easily make the short distance to the warehouse unnoticed.
At first glance, the place looks deserted. there are no lights on, and the one door visible to the front of the building doesn't look like it has seen use in recent years.
You stealthily cover the perimeter of the warehouse, and get a decent idea of its appearance from the outside
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5465/9094250696_66d93d8ec8.jpg)
The windows are all covered in thick steel grating, a clear indication of the crime level in these parts, your inspection takes you to the rear of the building, where the smell of the Thames and seaweed combines with the smell of boat oil and diesel. You've traced along the left side of the building and are now looking across the rear aspect of the warehouse, facing the river.
A small concrete jetty heads out into the Thames, splitting left and right.
A small speedboat is tied up to the right hand side split, and the rear of the building is covered by a security camera, its flashing red status light letting you know it has power. Your audio enhancers are able to pick up the quiet whirring of its servos moving it in 30 second sweeps across the concrete landing and jetty areas.
The rear of the building has a large metal shutter dominating the wall, and what appears to be a basement access lift which looks old and rusty, and there are varying bits of decrepit industrial machinery scattered about the concrete landing area.
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[spoiler=OOC]
Sorry for the delay, for some reason or other this page wouldn't load the last day and a half... happens from time to time. But I think I've got caught up on everything I need to for now
[/spoiler]
Collin's entrance to the Winchester went largely unnoticed by the patrons, they usually couldn't see much past their own pints, and getting their attention at all almost always meant buying them another round. Herb was a welcome sight, as Collin's pockets had been feeling a little on the empty side as of late, and rent was coming up faster than he would care to admit. He returned the greeting to the barmaid, raising two fingers signalling to get another round for his friend as well. He removed his coat and hung it on a peg on the wall before making his way to the bar.
Oh you know me, Herb, Collin said returning the handshake with a warm smile I'm always open for a little work. What do you have for me?
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________Teafo____________
Its an out-of-town job, you still got your wheels? Rumours have been floating around for a while that the druid enclaves out in surrey have had things go missing over the past few months, especially stuff that has any kind of magical history or element. started with the enclaves and villages nearest to the old toxic zones, but stuff has been going missing for a while now, including people and neither the Met or the NDM seem to give a shit.
A mate of a mate of mine has a workshop out that way, just a bit north of cambridge, and the worrying thing is that no-one has heard from anyone in that village for quite a while. its like the whole place has gone dark. I cant even get a matrix ping from his home node. This was two days ago, and the coppers are saying nowt at all. anyways, the job is a reccy. get in there, see what you can find out. Rumours are pretty wild, apparently the locals have been hearing all sorts of bumps in the night for a while. Thats why I want you to go take a little looksie, you're always prepared for the weird stuff He looks at you with a wry smile and pushes a dossier your way.
Thats the village, its got the addresses and a mugshot of my bloke out there. Pay is 1200, and i'll cover your fuel. if you can get me any names or hard evidence, theres an extra half a grand in it. sound good?
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Yeah, my pickup is out back. Sounds like my kind of work, Collin leafs through the documents to see if anything seems noteworthy and to get a good look at this contact. You happen to know when this all started? Any new faces in the area I should know about off hand? Collin asked, knowing that he would probably not get any further information from the fixer. Otherwise, why would he hire him? But it never hurt to ask anyway. He stayed a bit longer to finish off his drink and make small talk with his friend before he headed out to his GAZ. Before starting the engine he went over a mental checklist of places to check. Check with BabyDoll see if she can get anything from the Matrix on the area. Michael might know some area information, but if nothing else he might be able to give me a reason the cops are steering clear. Best bet may be to just head there and see for yourself though. Collin keyed in the messages to BabyDoll and Officer Rorge and started the pickup. He set the directions to the address into his commlink and pulled out of the parking lot.
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___________Teafo______________
Not really mate, as I said, rumours have been pretty wild for a few months now. people talking of wild eyed raiders appearing in the night, right through to their family heirlooms being missing. few graves have been robbed and a small museum got bust into. This is all spread across a few months and a pretty wide area, most of it second hand pub-talk. I need some eyes-on, that's why you're here. None of my usual eyes and ears have been much help, like I said, it's like the whole place just went dark overnight.
Keep me posted as you go yeah? I wanna know of anything interesting as it happens. Be safe too mate, no heroics.
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Sure thing, I'll let ya know as soon as I find out anything His departing words were a promise, and he was not usually the super-daring type anyway. So while it did seem a mystery, he wasn't about to go charging in head first to find out what was happening. He learned a long time ago that subtlety can get you a lot further, and leave a lot fewer toes stepped on.
His truck rumbled down the roadway, and as he neared the village he would park on the outskirts and check if his contacts had any information before checking about on foot.
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_____Teafo_____
//Matrix Message Protocol 1.0.2b//<<BaByDoll101>> Hey Col, what's up, usually you send me an essay when you need a favour? I can do a Matrix-Ping sweep of the area, see if any of the major routing nodes are down. shouldn't take long, call it 50 quid for a friend yeah?//
//Matrix Message Protocol 1.0.2b//<<MikeyMike20>> Hi Collin, not heard from you in a while. Nope, no idea on that one. had an auntie who lived out that way when i was a kid, but not been back since. sorry can't help more!//
The afternoon rush hour had already started by the time you decide to leave for the countryside. A crash on the M25 and a breakdown on the north circular meant that progress was tortuously slow, and two hours later you've barely left greater london. The British autumn weather meant you were in for a cold, dark and damp night, and gridguide's best estimate of arrival put you at around 9.30pm this evening.
You finally get off the main roads and start making some progress, hitting 60mph on the windy country roads through small market towns and villages.
with less than 20miles to go, you start seeing old-school metal signs informing you of road closures ahead, and posting you onto a diversion route. The diversion wanted to take you a long way around your area of investigation, the village of Oakhampton.
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__________Lumen_________
Your careful observation of the landing area shows you that there are four main areas of debris piled up, the only one really big enough to hide behind is an old rusted chassis of a forklift truck. the other industrial wreckage is no bigger than thigh-high.
There is a suspiciously shiny part on the control section of the forklift however, it seems more modern and less dilapidated than the rest of the chassis.
As you concentrate on your surroundings, you hear a thud, or was it two? a door closing maybe?......
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The commlink's notification of new messages popped up on Collin's imagelink in his glasses. The traffic was crawling by and he was glad that he could get something back before he got to beginning his real work. Both messages were disheartening though, nothing really from either contact that could give him a solid foothold to get things rolling. It looked like it was going to be another foray into the unknown. Not that that bothered him horribly, it happened many a time, and so far has worked out for him. As he pulled into the town finally, he decided it would be best to write back before heading into the town proper.
//Matrix Message Protocol 1.0.2b//<<BabyDoll101>> Hey Doll! Sorry I know you like my longer essays better, just in a bit of a hurry this time. Seems things around are catching the attention of higher powers than I. Things that go bump in the night and all that. You know, the usual fair for those like myself. Thanks for checking into everything for me, I'll wire the cash over in just a second. Unless you'd rather meet in person? Still waiting to see your real face, babe, maybe buy you a real drink too?// In his mind he knew that she probably wouldn't go for it, she never did in the past, but he always offered. He was always a little uncomfortable with how much she knew about his life and work without even knowing who she was behind her avatar.
//Matrix Message Protocol 1.0.2b//<<MikeyMike20>> Thanks for getting back to me so quick, I owe you a drink when I get back, it'll be good to catch up. How's the force treating you these days? Good I hope. I'll keep you posted on what's going on out this way if it's anything that could suck you into it as well. Always nice to know what you're getting into right?//
After the messages confirmed being sent, Collin settled the seat of his truck back and relaxed his body, allowing his astral form to float outward. Couldn't hurt to do a quick scout around the area on the astral plane he mused to himself and floated his way around the perimeter of the town looking for any magical signatures, anything that seemed more out of the ordinary for a small town like this one.
[spoiler=Perception Test]
Just in case it's needed: Perception 2 + INT 3 = 5 Dice, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4099778/)
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//<<BaByDoll101>>Yo, Great stuff. I'll do a quick sweep of the area. It was Oakhampton you were after right?//
//<<MikeyMike20>>Force is good mate, just looking at a transfer to traffic. Some trouble with the new boss on my patch for the regular beat! no problems, give me a shout when you're around.
A detailed scan of the village you are driving through shows this isn't the one you are looking for, Gridguide informs you that you are still 21.225 miles from your destination.
It hasn't however, been updated with the road closures. the metal signage has obviously been put up by the police or traffic service, but this information hasn't been made live on Gridguide for some reason..
As you approach the main traffic lights on the main street of the village, you see the Dog and Duck Inn on your right. it is the only building that seems alive, apart from the odd house here and there with a light on.
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After taking a bit to survey the landing Knives shakes his head. *So much for moving across the yard. Could probably make it to the forklift.* His head whips back towards the front of warehouse when he hears the thuds. *Frag me. Guess that means it's time for Plan B. I should really get some Gecko Gloves.* Knives focuses his energy into his muscles calling forth his inner strength.
Magic (5) + Attribute Boost Str (3) = 8d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4099948/) 0 hits :(
Guess I need to roll drain. DV 3S Body (5) + Willpower (5) = 10d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4099954/) No Drain
Let's try again.
Magic (5) + Attribute Boost Str (3) = 8d6
1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4099955/) 3 hits
Strength is now 8 for 6 rounds.
It takes longer than normal to call out his strength but now that he has it was time to get to work. *A dash to forklift sounds better than bare handing it up that wall.* He pulls his jacket tight, waits for the right timing when the camera is overlooking the other side of the yard, and then makes a mad dash to the forklift.
Sprinting Test:
Strength (8) - Defaulting (1) = 7d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4099962/) 3 hits
Knives is hauling ass at a Running Rate of 31 meters/turn. Not sure how far away the forklift is but hopefully that should get me there before the camera comes back around.
As soon as he makes it to the forklift the young elf takes cover putting it between himself and the back of warehouse. Knives waits until the camera has moved back out of view then peaks out to get a look at the back of the warehouse.
Using Vision Magnification if needed.
Perception (4) + Intuition (3) + Vision Enhancements (3) = 10d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4099969/) 3 hits
After that he'll try to take a look at the suspiciously shiny part here's another Perception check if needed.
Perception (4) + Intuition (3) + Vision Enhancements (3) = 10d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4099973/) 1 hit
[/end spoiler]
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An inner strength amplifies your movements, you feel strong, powerful and capable.
The landing blitzes by as you hit your top speed, muscles crying out for oxygen and you reach the forklift as the camera finishes it's sweep to the right. You should be safe here.
The back of the building doesn't really look much different from your new vantage point, but you can now see down the other side of the building onto the street. You can just about make out the front of a grey vehicle, it looks like an ancient Transit or Bedford van.
There is a console on the knackered forklift that seems to be newer than the forklift itself. One button in particular seems like it has seen use recently.
The camera begins it's sweep to the left.
Audio perception test again please
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Knives sits back taking a second to catch his breath. *Drek the view isn't much better from here. Maybe the boat...*
Perception (4) + Intuition (3) + Audio Enhancement (3) = 10d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4101346/) 4 hits
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You hear the distinctive sound of van doors closing, though very muffled, with the audio enhance dialed up to the full, you can hear a bit of banter, some hearty laughing and footsteps heading towards the building.
A short burst of thuds follows, are they knocking on the front door?
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*Great no one told me this was a civil visit. Though I doubt those blokes are here for the same reasons. Hey maybe it's that troll slot I'm looking for.*
He waits for the camera to pan back around then bolts back to the side of the building he came from. Once back in the alley he straightens his coat out again and proceeds stealthily up to the front of the warehouse to inspect the new arrivals.
Running test
Strength (8) - 1 Defaulting = 7d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4102535/) 2 hits.
Infiltration test
Infiltration (3) + Agility (6) = 9d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4102538/) 3 hits.
And lastly once I get around to the front to see what kind of knob just walks up and knocks on the door.
Perception (4) + Intuition (3) + Enhancements (3) = 10d6
1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4102544/) 2 hits
Knives peaks around the front hoping to see a big troll he was sent here to shake down.
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The camera is in mid-pan when you make your decision to move, it's slow movements seeming glacial with the added urgency of the new arrivals.
Finally, its safe to move and by the time you have gotten up to sprint, you can hear several loud clangs; clearly metal on metal.
As you reach the corner of the warehouse, you see three large blokes in badly fitting suits with long overcoats brandishing crowbars, and one man-mountain brandishing a sledgehammer. They appear to be trying to smash and lever the steel bars off the windows when your footfall and panting alerts the nearest thug to your presence, only a matter of metres away.
Oi!!! That sneaky little fucker is tryin' to do a runner!
Roll for iniative!!
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"Bollucks!" Knives lets out a curse as he is clearly caught dead to rights.
Reaction (5) + Intuition (3) = 8d6
1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4102638/)
Initiative: 11 IPs: 2
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initiative: thug one (nearest, Ini 8 ) sledge hammer: Surprised! Thug two (furthest, Surprised!) You are quickest to react, start your 1st IP.
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With fluid and familiar motions Knives pulls out his namesake, a pair of identical, custom, short Cougar Fineblades, and readys himself to deflect the soon to be incoming blows.
I don't have any quick draw ability so I assume it takes both my Simple Actions to ready the blades, if not I'll go ahead and take a stab at the nearest enemy. I'm going to be using the Two Weapon Fighting martial arts maneuver to Parry incoming attacks with my left hand and attacking with my right hand.
Unless it only takes a single simple action to draw then I'm done with my first IP
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Realizing that the grid guide had failed to get him to the right place, Collin reentered his meat body and continued the drive into town. At the stoplight he glanced around noticing the activity of the Inn, and seemingly nothing else. As the light changed colors, he pulled around the Inn and parked his pickup down the street a short ways. He exited his truck and made his way to the lit building and went inside.
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_______Lumen________
The thug nearest you charges at you, his face turning from smug arrogance to doubt as you draw and level your swords. He packs a mighty swing with his crowbar, smashing at you with a huge overhead blow.
clubs 4, agi 3, charging 2, 2 friends. (11d6.hits(5)=4)]=http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4103898/]clubs 4, agi 3, charging 2, 2 friends. (11d6.hits(5)=4) (http://=http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4103898/), parry test with a threshold of 4 please.
_______Teafo________
As you step outside your van, the night air seems even colder out here in the country than it did in the city. The soft hum of conversation and background music increases as you near the Inn, and as you step inside, the warmth and bustle of the room is welcoming. Immediately to your left, next to the entrance is the ladies/gents rooms, down a small corridor the main pub room opens out with a bar to the left, a small stage area to the right and tables in the middle. a small door on the far side of the room, past the pool table, is labelled as "room access for residents only". The main pub room itself is decorated in traditional rural pub style, with thick dark wooden beams holding up the roof and pictures of the village in centuries gone by adorning the walls. plush red curtains line the windows and the seats are all covered in a thick red leather.
The pub is reasonably busy, a smattering of folk propping up the bar and sat across a few of the tables, whilst a young girl is on-stage playing folk music on a modified synth-guitar.
As you approach the bar, the barman finishes serving one customer and turns to you;
"Good evening, what can I get ya? some food, a beer or a room? Maybe all three eh? hehe"
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Agility 6 + Blades (Knives) 8 + 1 Kung fu + 1 personal grip +1 Imp. Cobat ability = 17d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4103958/)
6 hits :-)
As the thug's confidence fades a vicious smile spreads across Knives' face. He deftly parries the overhead blow knocking the crowbow off to one side and side stepping to the other. He can't help himself, "That's right mate! This won't end well for you. Might as well turn over the quid now and save yourself a header in the Thames."
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Thug 1's crowbar rebounds off your swords with the resonating sound of metal on metal. He looks agog at you, clearly no-one has pulled dual swords out on him before, he discontinues his attack and backs off.
Sledgehammer:
"Fackin 'ell, that aint the dwarf you dozy twat. that's facking Knives, one of them clerkwell lads"
You recognise the sledgehammer toting thug as Micky "the mugger". One of the Maxwell boys. You'd had a fight with him after a darts match went sour a few years back and he still bore the scar to this day.
He also hadn't forgotten about it and didnt look too pleased to see you.
Thug 2
"Well what tha fack is eee doing ere then?!
Initiative pass resolved, you may continue combat if you wish or you can end it and move on to RP the interactions.
-
We will give the talking route a shot for now but keeping the defense up.
"Oi Micky I should have recognized your ugly mug. What am I doin here? I could ask you the same thing. You two best bugger off I'm working. Though with all that banging about you ruined the surprise."
Knives lowers his blades but keeps them at the ready. *If these wankers are here on similar business it's not a good sign. Could mean the bloke has flown the coup if he owes two families quid. Better get these two out of here so I can get inside. *
-
Micky and his brutish companion walk up the alley towards you, forming a rank with the first thug who has now regained his composure:
Workin'? you gotta be joking you little cunt, these boys are ours now and have been for months. Tight little fuckers though, we're here to give em a squeeze. Now unless you're in the mood for a squeeze too, you can take your two pointy little mates {gesturing at your now lowered swords} and fack off.
-
Knives lets out a chuckle, "Well now, that might explain why this ignorant slot thought he could quit payin me boss. Though I'd be real careful if I was you Micky. My little mates would be more than happy to give that scar there some chums." He points his blade at the scar he'd gifted the brute with in their last encounter.
He points his chin at the thug that had swung the crowbar at him, "An this one. He knows he doesn't want to tussle with my mates. He's bout to piss himself and I haven't even taken a swing at 'im yet." The vicious smile once again creeps across Knives' face. "Go on home now lad before you wind up with a face like your mate."
I suppose I should roll intimidation based on how the conversation is going. :)
Charisma 2 - 1 Defaulting = 1d6 1d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104131/)
I will spend an edge to negate the glitch if possible. Hopefully circumstances will help more than my one die.
-
In an instant, Micky's face turns to steel YOU LITTLE CUNT, NO-ONE SPEAKS TO ME LIKE THAT, I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU YOU CUNT!!!!!
Roll for initiative!!
Thug 1
6d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104141/) Ini 6
Micky 7d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104139/) Ini 8
Thug 2 6d6.hits(5)=3 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104142/) Ini 9
-
Oh well that didn't take long ;D
Reaction 5 + Intuition 3 = 8d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104140/)
Initiative 13 IPs 2
-
You are quickest off the line, begin your first pass!
-
"Alright Micky if that's the way you want it!"
Agility 6 + Knives 8 + Personal Grip 1 + Imp Combat Ability 1 + Weapon Focus 2 = 18d6
1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=0, 1d6.hits(5)=1, 1d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104143/) 6 hits
DV is 5P [(8/2)+1] AP -1
Knives could tell Micky meant business and seized the opportunity to make good on his promise to add more scars to his ugly mug. He opens up with a quick jab of the right hand, his left hand holding steady ready to defend incoming blows.
-
Micky spots your thrust and tries to duck out of the way, but you stick to your promise, giving him a nice nick on the arm from the glancing hit. That should scar up nicely.
rea 4, clubs 5, custom grip 1, reach 1 (11d6.hits(5)=6) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104174/)
As you lunge forwards, the second thug charges at you with a huge overhead smash with his crowbar
clubs 3, agi 3, charge 2, friends 2, reach 1. (11d6.hits(5)=5) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104176/) Parry test with threshold 5 please
-
Agility 6 + Blades (Knives) 8 + 1 Kung fu + 1 personal grip +1 Imp. Combat ability = 17d6
17d6.hits(5)=6 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104184/)
The thug's overhead smash was just as obvious this time as it had been before and Knives manages to divert the blow away from his precious noggin.
-
Micky, having seen the speed of your blade 1st hand and the ease with which you've defelected his heaviest hitter's blows, decides that Plan A isnt going to work after all. He staggers back, glancing at his arm where your blade glanced him and growls.
He drops his sledge hammer, reaches into his jacket and draws a pistol, firing a shot at you, a loud report echoing down the narrow alleyway.
free action:drop item
Simple action: ready weapon
Simple action: fire weapon
Pistols 2(4), agi 4 (8d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104192/) dodge with threshold two, with -1 for defending this IP
-
*Frag me. I better get ahead in this tussle quick or I'm dead*
Using Edge.
Reaction 5 + Edge 3 - 1 Already defended = 7d6
7d6.hitsopen(5,6)=5 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104196/)
Knives quickly spins about barely dodging the incoming before planting again and looking directly into Micky's rage filled eyes gives him a quick gesture. The universal sign for 'come get some'.
-
The first thug, heartened by the change of events fancies his luck, he closes the distance with a run and swings a low blow, aiming for your gut
clubs 3, agi 3, charging 2, friends 2, reach 1 (11d6.hits(5)=6) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104204/)parry test @ 6 threshold, -2 for defending
-
Agility 6 + Blades (Knives) 8 + 1 Kung fu + 1 personal grip +1 Imp. Combat ability - 2 Already Defended = 15d6
15d6.hits(5)=4 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104210/)
Quickly becoming overwhelmed by his opponent's superior numbers and reach Knives tries to deflect the blow to the gut but it manages to catch him.
-
The your parrying takes a lot of the sting out of the hit, but the crowbar still connects and knocks the wind out of you.
Thug 1 is strength 4: /2+ 1 + 2 net hits.you need to resist 5 physical damage using impact armour.
Your 2nd pass begins
-
Body 5 + Impact Armor 10 = 15d6
15d6.hits(5)=6 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104224/)
No damage taken.
The crowbar lands right in Knives' midsection luckily his PPP vitals protector did exactly what it claims to do. *Thank the Queen, that could have been bad. Stick to the plan, take down Micky and don't get sloppy.* Once again Knives strikes out with speed and precision.
Agility 6 + Knives 8 + 1 Imp Combat Ability + 1 Personal Grip + 2 Weapon Focus = 18d6
18d6.hits(5)=5 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104231/)
-
Your determined and accurate slice bears right down into micky's outstretched gun arm, causing him a grievous wound. His pistol clatters to the floor, covered in blood. His arm is leaking profusely as he turns and runs to the van, his mates in tow.
You wait you little cant, i'll faking kill you!!!
-1 for defended (10d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104587/) You score 3 net hits.
damage resist:
Bod 4, impact 5(4) (9d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104594/) Micky takes 5 boxes
Combat resolved, well done!
-
*Whew finally, I was starting to get worried these blokes might actually hurt me.* Knives can't help himself and yells out to his fleeing assailants, "That's right ya bellends, piss off! Come after me again Micky and ya just get more scars!"
He pockets his parrying blade and pulls a handkerchief from his breast pocket and wipes down the other fineblade. After slipping his best mate back in it's place, he wraps up the bloody cloth inside another and shoves it all in a coat pocket. *Well the quiet approach is out of question so fuck it. I got to at least get in and get something for the boss.* He reaches down and grabs the pistol Micky dropped and tucks it in the back of his trousers before giving the front door a good look over.
Inspecting the door closely.
Perception 4 + Intuition 3 + Enhancements 3 + Actively Looking 3= 13d6
13d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4104872/)
I'm specifically looking to see if it's locked and if so how I might go about solving that.
-
Thug 1 spins around after your taunt;
"You made a fucking enemy today silly bastard. Come anywhere near Maxwell territory and you're a dead man. Better start sleeping with one eye open you prick."
You hear the slamming of the van doors closing and the screech of tires as the van pulls sharply away.
As you pick up the pistol, you notice the writing on the bottom of the grip, it looks eastern european to you; and it reads Czeska VZ 120
I'm going to assume you wiped the blood off it as carefully as you did the sword. because i'm nice like that and its only chapter one ;-)
Stuffing it into your belt line, you head round to the front of the building and inspect the front door.
Those thuds you'd heard earlier weren't polite knocks, they were impacts from micky's sledgehammer. He'd 'knocked' quite a few times, but barely made a dint in the door, the reinforced metal exterior bending slightly but showing no outward sign of failure.
Whatever mechanism was holding the door solid, was doing so from the inside. This approach clearly wasn't going to work short of using explosives.
-
Collin enters the bar area and decides to take a look around as he enters.
I'll have a beer, thanks and scans the area first with normal vision, then with astral perception
[spoiler=rolls]
Regular = 1 hit Perception 2 + Int 3 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4105300/) (both rolls in the one link)
Astral = 3 hits
[/spoiler]
-
The barman pours you a thick heady pint of stout "where you from then mate, you don't look like you're from round here?"
Your examination of the room tells you very little you hadn't already seen.
A few of the locals appear to be upset and agitated, and they don't take kindly to you paying attention to them
-
The young man sighs and hangs his head for a moment. *Duh Miles, you're acting a bloody fool just like those brainless wankers you just ran off. Think maybe the one piece of drek around that doesn't look older than you might have something to do with getting in?*
He takes a second to gather himself before heading round back again, waiting on the camera, then sprinting back to the forklift. Knives takes cover behind the knackered machine until the camera pans around again then checks the newer looking console. *This has got to be the way in.*
Knives pushes the button that he noticed earlier.
-
Don't know if there truly is a place I'm from, Collin answers honestly, having moved quite a few times in his life, Just a bit of a wanderer if you will. Usually findin' work where work is needed and such. You know of anyone around here could use a hand? I'd be happy to see a little cred and I'm pretty handy with lots of things This time he lies, seeing if he can elicit any information from the bartender without flat out asking about the thefts in the area
-
___________Lumen______________
You cover the distance yet again without any issues, tucking in behind the forklift just as the camera finishes it's sweep to the right.
You reach into the dilapidated cabin and flick the switch. for a second, nothing happens, and then with the screeching of metal on metal, the access lift whirs into life.
The two rusted floor panels open downwards and an ancient sounding motor pushes up a lift platform with its own console to the surface.
The sound is horrendous, any plans of going in quietly have now been well and truly scuppered.
__________Teafo_______________
The barman eyes you suspiciously, trying to figure out whether you're being genuine or not. roll a con test please!
Barman opposed test: char 4, neg 4, time +1 (9d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4106532/)
-
*Frag me what a racket! If Micky didn't already wake the block that certainly did. Better hurry up and nick what I can.*
Once again the young man waits out the camera's movements before heading over to the newly revealed console. Knives dials down his audio enhancements before punching the down button. *I'm gonna need a pint or six after this.* As the lift descends he draws his blades preparing for his luck to continue.
-
Con Test: Using just the base (no modifiers as per bartender being suspicious, advantageous outcome for barman anything like that.
Con 2 + Charisma 3 = 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4106691/)
Looks like he's got the upper hand at the moment
-
___________Teafo___________
"Yeah, I think you're pulling my leg 'ere son. I bet you're one of them journalist types aren't ya, come up 'ere from your fancy pants apartment in london cos you think you got a sniff of a story ant ya?
__________Lumen_______________
You descend about 20ft on the lift, its pitch black and the noise of tortured metal rings in your ears in the confined lift shaft.
As the lift grinds to a halt, you see a long corridor stretching ahead of you into an open warehouse section.
Stacks of boxes line the corridor to your left and right, providing plenty of cover. You might need it, because you also see a roof mounted camera pointed right at the lift platform you're standing on.
You didn't exactly arrive quietly either....
-
*I should have known. This is just not my night but I can't go back empty-handed.*
As soon as the lift stops Knives springs into action trying his best to hide his face. He heads for the nearest stack of boxes to his left and as he takes a knee behind them he touches the middle and ring finger of his right hand to it's palm. As programmed the Cavelier SafeGuard springs from it's resting position in the hidden arm slide into his awaiting hand. Now that the awful racket is done Knives dials his audio enhancements back up and listens in for incoming footfalls.
Infiltration check in case it helps
Infiltration 3 + Agility 6 = 9d6
9d6.hits(5)=5 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4107268/)
Perception Check
Perception 4 + Intuition 3 + Enhancements 3 + Actively Listening 3 = 13d6
13d6.hits(5)=4 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4107269/)
-
____________Lumen____________
You hear the sound of multiple footfalls heading your way, and one deep, booming, accented voice.
The footfall stops somewhere ahead of you, probably halfway down the corridor but its hard to tell for sure.
"Come out and play you little fuck, vee know zat you are here. Who are you and vat do you vont?"
The voice strength varies slightly, as if he is talking more to the room than to you specifically.
-
Knives peaks out from behind the boxes to get a better idea of just how boned he is.
"Evening mate, my name isn't important it's my employer's name you should be concerned with. I'm here on behalf of the Clerkenwell family. I was asked to come see how satisfied you are with our services. Would you consider yourself satisfied or extremely satisfied?"
*I hope this bloke is reasonable. Killing the messenger is bad business. *
-
As you peer your head around the boxes, you see the outline of huge troll holding an fire axe in one hand and a human male holding a baton of some description, its quite hard to see in the dim light.
"Satisfied? funny man. We haven't heard from you boys in months. We've had zose Maxwell boys smashing our doors in and no help from you at all! we vill not pay you until we get ze protection you promised!"
-
"Well just so happens I provided some protection not five minutes ago. You had three of those Maxwell boys knocking at your front door and I reminded them you're under our protection. There's even a fresh blood stain in your alley if'n you don't believe me. Trust me if it's more a more active service you're looking for we can accommodate you mate but do mind if I come out? I feel right foolish hiding back here when we're having a polite conversation."
Knives slides the SafeGuard back into it's resting position in the hidden arm slide and stands, still keeping the boxes in between the troll and himself.
-
You see the Troll's monocle display light up a glowing blue and he mutters something under his breath, you can just about make out his subvocalisation thanks to your audio enhancement
"Jimmy, check the alleys. Our guest claims to have been "protecting" us".
"You may come out, but if you try anyzing you vill regret it.
Vhy have you zuddenly begun protecting uz? you have not responded to our calls for months now?"
-
Knives straightens his coat before stepping out in to the corridor. He holds his hands open at sides, showing the troll empty palms.
"I can't speak for management, you understand. I was just put on your case earlier today mate and was unaware of any lack of response. Way I heard it the boss hadn't heard from you in months so obviously what we have here is failure to communicate. I will be more than happy to bring up your complaints mate but if I come back empty-handed the boss is gonna have my arse in a sling. As your mates will find I've rendered my services here so if you don't mind I can deliver your payment to management and voice your complaints and Bob's your uncle."
-
The Troll's monocle glows blue again, lighting up one half of his face in the eerie half-dark of the corridor.
You see him nodding and grunting before the connection ends.
"Very vell, vee have had some "issues" with our computer systems here. Vee suspect vee have been hacked, and zat it has somezing to do viz ze Maxwell boys you so handily dispatched.
Vee vill pay you for von month for you vork here today, but vee request an increase in service from your boss, Mr Clerkvell. Vee vill need somevon viz technical skills to inspect our system, or vee face going out of business, and your payments vill dissapear with us.
Are vee agreed?"
-
"Sounds perfectly reasonable to me mate. I'll head back and inform the boss and see what we can do about providing a bit more support along with a tech lad to come inspect your system. Obviously we'd prefer you were around and making good quid for some time. Once the boss learns those Maxwell's wankers have been harassing our clientele I'm sure he'll go about rectifying that situation."
Knives extends his hand offering a shake, "We have a deal mate?"
-
"I believe so. I vill avait communications from Mr Clerkvell. Please can communications be arranged in person? I now do not trust our computer system until we have had it analysed. Vee messaged many times for assistance and heard nothing back from you.
He pulls out a credstick and holds it up to his monocle, it glows blue, then green for a split second and he passes it to you before shaking hands to cement the deal, hist huge meaty paws dwarfing your own.
"Please, leave the route vay you came in. Vee look forward to your assistance"
-
"Understandably so. I will make sure to bring it up to the boss and I look forward to working with you in the future."
Pleased as punch to actually get some form of payment Knives pockets the credstick and heads back to the old lift. In preparation he dials his audio back down and covers his ears before hitting the button to ascend. Once topside he dials the audio back up and heads down the street towards his bike, lighting up a smoke as he walks. *Ahhh... that's better. Well the evening turned out better than expected after all the drek in the beginning. Time to check in then go get a pint.*
Assuming his bike is still there he will hop on and send Johnny a text. <Oi mate, I'm all wrapped up here but there's a few things we need to talk about preferably over a pint. Where to?>
-
<<Good lad, we're just down the Red Lion, just near New Cross Gate. How long you gonna be? I'll get you one in.>>
The weather had taken a turn for the worse and what was just a miserable overcast evening had turned into a bloody cold, drizzly one. not a great night to have taken the bike out by any stretch.
Punching the address into gridguide, you see you've got about a 15minutes drive sitting between you and your hard earned pint.
-
<ETA: 15 minutes. Hopefully sooner than that it's fraggin' freezing!>
Knives bundles up as best he can and sets his agent to guide the bike to his destination in the quickest way possible, flicking his cigarette off into the gutter as he speeds off through the night.
-
You arrive outside the pub in no time at all, gunning it to get through the shitty weather quicker.
You head through the doors just in time to see Johnny squaring the barmaid up for the pint he's just got in for you.
He spins around and greets you with a smile
"Awright mate, good work getting those fuckers to pay up. come on mate, I got a booth over here, give me the full story""
-
Knives smiles as he enters the warm pub and his hand heads straight towards the pint and he takes a long sip. He follows Johnny to the booth and takes a seat.
"Well it wasn't my finest hour but there are a lot of problems at that sodding warehouse. Before I even make it inside three of Maxwell's boys show up with bloody crowbars trying to bust in the place. Apparently they've been harassing our client for months but I chased em off with tails between their legs. Then there was the lift from hell making enough racket to wake the dead to get in the place. So I make it inside and have a little chat with that troll you were talking about. Turns out they've been trying to call us for months but are having loads of technical issues. He thinks Maxwell has got him hacked and was blocking calls to us."
Removing the credstick from his pocket he sets it on the table. "It's only one month's payment but if we don't do something sounds like Maxwell is gonna run them outta business." He takes another long drag from the glass.
-
Johnny listens intently as you regale your story to him, taking hearty swigs of his pint as he does.
"Fack me. Sounds like a rough old night mate, enjoy your pint! Good work on getting a deposit out of em, we thought they were gone for good. So who was it from the Maxwell lads you ran into? They've been giving us shit for years. As you reply, he taps something into his commlink
<<//City of London Banking//1000 GBP has been deposited in your account. Have a nice day>>
-
Knives raises his glass to his mate, "Cheers", and takes another drink.
"I've certainly had better nights. Like I said they may not be around much longer if they don't get the system fixed. You remember that twat Micky who I tussled with after a dart game a while back? It was him and a couple brutes trying to knock down the reinforced door on the front of place."
After taking another sip he snaps his fingers and continues, "Oh yea, almost forgot. The troll bloke asked that we send someone to talk to him in person about continued service. Can't trust that system they've got till we get it cleaned up. Please mate don't take his requests lightly. If we don't step up he's liable to track me down and pop me head clean off me shoulders."
-
"haha, yeah I heard that troll is a big fucker! Jimmy must think highly of your skills if he sent you in there alone, either that or you pissed 'im off big time!
Fackin ell, not Micky "The Mugger" Maxwell?? fuck. That aint good mate, ee's a facking psycho that one. What did you do to 'im?
-
"Yea that's the one. What did I do to him? Well after he tried to shoot my fragging head off I pulled a blade across his forearm. Pretty deep too, should make a wicked scar." The cruel smile returns, "Should match the previous one I gave him right nicely I think. I'm not worried about him mate, he's too stupid to get the drop on me and not nearly good enough to beat me. Kept the piece too as a bit of a souvenir."
-
oh shit. we can do without a bloody war on our hands mate, you'd have been better off killing the fucker than hurting him! ah well, time for some shots eh knives my old mucker?
Johnny returns with a bottle of sambuca and two glasses, but as he makes his way over to the table you hear a screeching of tires outside.
You hear four shots, the din of breaking glass and screams.................
Chapter 1 Ends for lumen
-Total karma earned 5
-1k payment
-Pistol looted
+1 enemy, Micky "The Mugger" Maxwell (please add this as a free quality)
-2 reputation with Maxwell Crime Family (now hostile)
well done!!
-
"I'll keep that in mind the next time I see him. Fuck yea I got time for shots! Let's get pissed mate!"
-
Johnny returns with a bottle of sambuca and two glasses, but as he makes his way over to the table you hear a screeching of tires outside.
You hear four shots, the din of breaking glass and screams.................
Chapter 1 Ends for lumen
-Total karma earned 5
-1k payment
-Pistol looted
+1 enemy, Micky "The Mugger" Maxwell (please add this as a free quality)
-2 reputation with Maxwell Crime Family (now hostile)
well done!!
-
Oh well, I guess I'm not as sneaky as I wish. You caught me, Collin reaches into his bag and pulls out his camera, displaying it to the bartender Look, my editor got some wind about things going bump in the night around here, wanted me to see if there was a story worth writing. he plays into the man's assumption of him being a reporter before asking for his help You wouldn't have heard of any of that have you? I really need to make a good impression or I'm gonna get fired
-
The barman turns to a bloke at the bar: "haha, what did i tell you bill. i can spot em a mile off! you owe me a fiver!"
He turns back to you,
Look kid, you seem like a nice guy. there is some really screwed up stuff happening around here so i'd recommend you stay here tonight. We've had allsorts of stuff go missing, cattle mutilated in the middle of the night, strange sightings of big beasties. you name it. Most of it is probably hot air, but something weird is going on. Room is 45 with breakfast.
Have a pint or two and chat to the locals, they're shit scared since the coppers turfed em out of their homes. they havent told us nothing either, just closed the roads. There's a couple of lads 'ere from Oakhampton, playing pool over there. I take it thats what your boss as sent you up 'ere for?
-
Yeah, that's right, thanks for the help - my boss will really love this stuff. He's real big into these paranormal type stories Collin gives the man the cash for the room before heading over to the bar to see what information he could illicit out of the Oakhampton boys.
-
"Yeah, well just keep your wits about you lad, this isn't just any "bump in the nigh" story that you city boys so love, John over there got hurt trying to drive something away from his barn. Wound gone all funny 'an everything. Breakfast is between 6.30 and 9am. Rooms are through that door and on the 1st floor. You're in number 13, last door on the right. Do you want anything to eat? I can get the nightporter to make up a sandwich and take it to your room? There's your pint mate, that'll be 3 quid."
As you approach the table with the two blokes sitting by it, you notice one of them has a bandage strapped around his right arm and appears to be in quite a bit of pain.
The other one eyes you suspiciously and nods to john (who is mostly turned away from you) to alert him that you were heading over.
The table is just big enough for 4 people to sit at and the young girl begins to play the second half of her set as you approach, Introducing herself to the crowd as Gabby.
The music is soft, and her voice is crisp. You've never heard music like it before and it sets a lovely warm ambiance in the pub.
-
//Incoming Message::<<BaByDoll101>> Hey, sorry for the delay. things turned out quite interesting shall we say?
I can't get any Matrix Ping replies from any node around Oakhampton, the nearest MSP nodes appear to have been manually shut off.
I got into one of them but the IC rumbled me before i could learn too much. Server was in "maintenance", so whatever has taken it offline happened deliberately. It does mean if you're heading up that way, you won't be able to call for help, or find out whether i let you take me out for a drink ;-) <<50NY deducted from your account>>//
-
Collin pays for the drink and carries it with him, sipping amiably as he approaches the men at the table. Hi there, my name's John, he uses the name on his fake SIN just in case things get a little nasty, You blokes mind if I sit? Barkeep says you might have an idea of what's going on out Oakhampton way. Something going bump in the night, I was hoping you might be able to help me out with this story my editor wants run. He's big into these supernatural things you see, and anything you can help with... well, I'd be much obliged.
As his commlink populates the message Collin quickly checks it on his imagelink, smiling at the prospect of that drink with BabyDoll after all.
\\Outgoing message: <<BabyDoll101>> Thanks for the heads up, I'll see if I can't find where it got switched off and get it back up and running. I might be a little slow with this computer stuff, is there something I should look for? Some big lever switch that says "Matrix On/Off" I should look for? I'd like to have a backup if I can, and if I can get you connected around that IC, maybe you could dig up a little more. I'll keep you updated as I can. In the meantime, go have a drink on me\\ He quickly taps out the message only half paying attention as his focus is more on the two men at the table with him.
-
The two men eye you suspiciously until you "let slip" that you are a journalist.
'Bout time someone started takin us seriously. We been having these weird things 'appen to us for weeks now, no months.
Started a while back up north of Oakhampton near Hampton court. Farmer up that way got some old stone age earthworks on his land. archeologist types said it was a barrow or something. anyways's eee gets up one morning and theres a bleeding great big 'ole in the side of it!
Some standing stones about 5 mile from ere that 'ad been moved in middle of the night too.
We've had our workshops broken into. 'ol mick had a couple of cattle killed, 'orribly mutilated they were too.
Next thing we knows, blooming coppers knocking at the door, kicking us out of our 'omes. One of em said there was a gas leak, t'other one said to you it was a chemical spill din' he?
They're paying for us to stay here for a few nights while they get it sorted or summat, but we cna't go back and i cant even dial in to my home to see if its alright as matrix connection is down too!!"
[color=green//Doubt it, to be honest. You'll need to be an electrical engineer with decent tools to get it back on but i'll have a dig around and see if i can find any plans that would help locate the box. you might be able to find out if it was damaged deliberately or something, that might help your investigation??//[/color]
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Well boys, that does seem a trifle problematic. I'd like to get a closer look at what's going on up there. You said Hampton court eh? I think I'd better start there. And those standing stones, how big were they? Any idea what could've moved em? And one last thing, anything taken from your workshop? Anything to get an idea of what's out here. You know how people are, the more details, the better chance help can be on it's way, right? Collin asks while continuing to drink his ale.
//Not much chance of finding an engineer out in these parts. Keep me updated on those plans if you can, I will likely be going out of touch tomorrow morning, gonna spend the night here then head up the road to the town proper. I'll keep my eyes open for any intentional damage and update you when I can.//
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"Yeah, its an old estate not too far from here. Police have got the area locked down though, all the roads are closed as far as we know, so you'll need to go on foot. If you follow the road out the back of here, it'll bring you up Mr Johnsons farm. follow the farm track to the north and you'll be heading in the right direction. theres a few copses of trees and some light woodland to keep out of sight in.
If you're going digging about up there, make sure you can either fight or run, whatever shifted them stones has got some strength. Had to have lifted em, there were no drag marks!
Nowt went missing from my workshop, but I did have some of my old mother's jewelry go missing about a week back. Beautiful pendant necklace, must have been a couple hundred years old. I'd be very much appreciative if you come across it and could return it to me."
//Sure thing, this has piqued my interest now. I'll drop you a line first thing in the morning before you head out then. I'm gonna get digging, see what I can find. Good luck with them Yokels!! :-)//
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Thanks for the directions. I'm not always proud to say it, but you know how us journalists can get pretty sneaky at times. I'll see just how attentive these police really are in the morning. Collin makes a mental note of how to get through the police blockades through the farm before his mind catches on something else, An old necklace huh? I don't suppose you've got a picture of it? Or maybe you could draw it for me? Make it easier to find and get it back to you. Of course in his mind he was wondering just why that necklace could have gone missing. If most of the items being taken were magical in nature, it could never hurt to get your hands on a little extra.
If the man could produce an image of the necklace, Collin would send it to his fixer to see if he could get in touch with a talismonger and get a better idea of what it was exactly.
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Nah, unfortunately mate, I havent got a picture of it. it did have a really intricate pattern on the back though i can't remember it in enough detail to draw it, could have been Chinese or Japanese or summat. We'd not long had it valued actually. They said to get it insured for couple of grand as it was really rare. Don't know much more than that I'm afraid
The night passes easily, the soft music and the plentiful ale giving the place a warm ambiance. Your rushed journalistic cover means that people are happy to speak, though you learn little more of use.
The Villaage of Oakhampton is about a 15minute drive through windy country roads, but those roads have been closed off for a few days now by the police. most of the people you speak to have conflicting ideas as to why they've been kicked out of their homes. No-one knows how long it'll be before they get back in, and all are very worried.
Eventually, you decide to hit the hay, and awake to the smell of freshly cooked breakfast wafting up the corridor. your alarm goes off at 6am, giving you roughly two and a half hours of darkness to work with.
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As his alarm sounds in the darkened room, Collin snaps the toggle to off and quickly dresses. The smells of breakfast waft down the hall to his room, but he knows there just isn't time to stop and eat if he wants to get anywhere near Oakhampton before the sun comes up. And he is well aware that if he wants to get there without the police seeing him, the darkness will be a very helpful companion. He enters the main common room and grabs a quick piece of toast to eat on his way, and quickly downs a glass of juice before heading out to his truck. He pulls out his gear bag and quickly slips into his chameleon suit before putting his clothes back on over top. No need to have the locals suspicious of his motives or why a reported would have a chameleon suit.
Once satisfied that his gear is easily accessible, he works his way north along the trail mentioned by the men last night on his way to the Johnsons' farm.
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//Incoming Message:: BaByDoll_101[<<Morning sleepy head. I found you some old old plans from the MSP. {ENCRYPTED ATTACHMENT} Unless you can get a decent engineer you're not going to be able to get into it, but you probably wouldn't want to draw that much attention to yourself anyway right? The main server rack and antenna for the surrounding villages is located near an old utilities building, pretty small, just behind the village hall in Oakhampton. The IC they've got patrolling these nodes is strong, very strong. Much stronger than you'd expect for a poxy little Nexus covering a couple of villages. Thought you'd like to know ;-)>>
You step outside into the chill autumn air, and a thin covering of frost belies how cold it is. The sun isn't up for quite some time yet and the meagre street lighting does a bad job of lighting the main road through the village.
You hack a right out of the pub and pick up the old lane up to the Johnson's farm, the eerie morning silence disturbed only by the occasional rustle of the wind through the hedges lining the lane and your rythmic footsteps.
The walk to the farm doesn't take long and your lane begins to sweep to the left, widening at the corner into a large gated gravel driveway entrance to the farm. One light is visible in an upstairs room as you approach, covering the driveway in a dim half-light and casting the meakest of light out into the lane.
Perception test at -2 for low light please
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Got super lucky here... 2 Int +3 Perception -2 low light=3d6=3hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4124193/)
I assume that you already factored in the low-light vision of being an elf in this case before my roll. In any case, not sure I really want to reroll... got super lucky here
//BabyDoll_101<<Good morning to you too. I really don't think I'll be bringing along an engineer on this one. Thanks for the info though. Seems odd that there is that much IC, makes me wonder if this isn't just a big coverup to get people out of the area so more nefarious actions can go on undisturbed. I am heading into Oakhampton now, so I may lose touch with you. In the meantime, can you see if any corps or families have been buying up land or generally just being overly interested in this area? Might not be able to get your reply till I'm back, but anything to help connect the dots will be helpful. Thanks again, you're the best!>>//
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//Sure, can do. It'll be another fee though?//
Through the gloom of the house's generous courtyard and driveway, you can make out a bit of a passageway into a large copse of trees.
An old rotten wooden post marks the spot where an old bridleway sign must have stood.
The path looks like it sees relatively regular use as it has a decent surface and is not too overgrown.
if you're heading up the path and don't want the householders to know, hit me with an infiltration check at -2 for the gravel surface
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//Heh, yeah, I'll keep the tab open for now//
The wooden post seemed to mark the best trail, but Collin wondered if it could be a trap, so well worn meant it was probably also well recognized. However, not seeing any other way through, he decided it would have to do for now, and began trying to quietly make his way along the gravel drive.
3 Agi + 3 Infiltration -2 gravel is noisy = 4d6, 1 Hit (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4124408/) It would appear he used up his luck on the perception test... ah well, all the more adventure
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The gravel crunches loudly underfoot as you make your way into the clearing. The dim light briefly grows stronger, as if someone moved the curtains, but soon resumes it's usual dim glow.
The passageway is oppressively dark as you move away from the house.
Even your elven eyes struggle to make out the details, relying more on intuition to guide you down the path and the occasional nettle sting to tell you you've mis-stepped.
As you reach the top of a small hillock, you begin to feel a touch uneasy. Are you actually alone here?
[Audio only perception test please]
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3 Int + 2 Perception = 5 dice, 3 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4124481/)
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You freeze in your tracks, your breath hovering in small clouds in front of you as you peer into the murky darkness, scrying the trees for an outline, a flash of movement, anything.
After two minutes of nothing, you return to your journey down the dark path with a sense of general unease.
As the pathway crests the hill, the countryside opens up a little and the oppressive blanket of trees above you becomes less dense.
To your left you can see the remainder of the country road you walked up snaking off into the distance.
Further to your front, you can just about make out the outlines of a set of buildings, punctured by one tall church tower.
//AR feed:: Connection to MSP lost//
The pathway opens up further as you begin to descend the hillock, opening out into a field of cattle.
perception test please
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Feeling that something wasn't quite right about the area, Collin drops to one knee, placing the palm of his hand to the ground and takes a deep breath. He closes his eyes and lets the mana from his body flow into the world, sensing for life around him
Casting Detect Life
5Magic + 4Spellcasting =9 dice, 5 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4126470/)
Resist Drain: 3 Willpower + 3 Charisma = 6 dice, 2 hits; drain value = (force 5 /2 =2.5, round down = 2) All drain resisted (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4126471/)
Perception Test
Perception 2 + Intuition 3 = 5 dice, 1 hit (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4126472/)
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Scanning around you as your spell weaves into form, you realise that not all of the cattle ahead of you are alive.
The path behind you however, is awash with life; birds roosting in the trees, insects on the woodland floor and the trees themselves all glow and pulsate with life energy.
In the distance you can just about make out a couple of life forms, approximately of dog size, roughly 200 metres from you, back into the woodland.
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Not wanting to stick around the woods with those two dog sized beings behind him, Collin makes his way across the field to see what kind of damage is done to the cattle.
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You don't have to look too hard to pick out that several of these cattle met a grizzly end. Claw marks and bite wounds cover their hides.
As you approach the slain cattle, a series of howls emenate from the woods
ROLL FOR INIATIVE!!!!
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Initiative 7 +2 hits =9 total (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4127390/)
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rea 6, ini 3 (9d6.hits(5)=4) toal: 13 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129125/)
rea 6, ini 3 (9d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129127/) total: 12
Two dog sized slavering beasts come bounding out of the woods in search of whatever is disturbing their next meal, barking, woofing and howling into the night.
1)Simple action: run
1)Simple action: observe in detail
1)Free action: communicate
2)free action: move
2)complex action: Paralyzing howl
Resist terror (2) with will + sound dampening rating (if any)
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willpower 3 = 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129318/)
Drek! Collin whirls on the incoming hounds, immediately dropping his sustained spell and pulling his Ares Lightfire and firing at the nearest beast
Free action: Drop sustained spell
Simple action: Ready weapon
Simple action: Fire weapon Agility 3 + Pistols 2 + Laser Sight 1 = 6 Dice, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129321/)
---> Unsure of range, the action above is listed at short range (0-5 meters for light pistol), I have also rolled at medium range (5-20 meters) at a -1 dice pool and again got [/url=http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129320/] 2 hits[/url]
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The report echoes through the woods, sending a flock of birds scattering into the skies.
Your round rams into the beast, spraying a black coloured ichor out of its powerful haunches
dodge:rea 6 (6d6.hits(5)=1) you get one net hit (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129360/)
its damage resist: damage resist (7d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129361/) the 1st beast takes 3 boxes of damage
The 1st beast begins to slow its charge as the round rams home, letting out a series of whiny yelps at the pain of the round, clearly lodged in its muscle mass.1/2 movement rate for beast 1
The second beast is rapidly closing the distance to you now. Angered by your defiant stand by it's meal, it looks at you at and releases a terrifying howl from deep within its soul
free action: Move (it is now at short range)
Complex action: Paralyzing howl paralyzing howl (7d6.hitsopen(5,6)=7) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129370/)
Resist Terror with willpower and audio damper rating (7)
The 1st beast, clearly struggling to move, begins to retreat to the safety of the woods after developing a distinct limp, dripping ichor as it goes. It had clearly not anticipated a staunch defence from its prey.
Roll for initiative!!!
Combat turn 2:
Beast 2: ini 11 ini (9d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129377/)
Beast 1: ini 14 ini (8d6.hits(5)=5)[/url
(http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129378/)
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3 willpower = 3 total, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4129485/) Not looking so good going against these draining powers from critters... On a side note, I also just realized that this entire time I've been only using the "hits" and not the "hitsopen" setting on invisible castle... so who knows how many successes I've missed out on :P Ah well...
As for initiative, I believe I am currently paralyzed for (magic rating of critter) minutes due to reaction drop... Base reaction = 4, my 2 hits drop his 7 to 5 and I am at 0 reaction for a while... hopefully they decide not to eat me
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"hits open" is how you use edge mate, only use that when you are spending a point.
The slavering beasts hurtles at you as you freeze in your tracks, it's howl stunning you.
Its momentum carries it into your chest, knocking your rigid frame to the ground. Your hear the distressed calls of the cattle and the sound of thundering hooves.Something approaches at speed and you feel a heavy impact to the back of the head, the world goes fully black.
When you awake, it is daylight, and your limbs are your own.
Your right leg hurts and your trouser leg feels damp, but you are otherwise unhurt.
The cattle are gone, except for a few well stripped carcases. A large hole in the hedges at the bottom of the field has been opened up
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Ah, yeah, forgot about that part... I've played a lot more of SR3 than 4, so still a little bit of a learning curve.
Collin awakens in the near empty field wondering if what had just happened was all just a terrible dream, but quickly realizes that it wasn't. His head is pounding, his chest feels like he got hit by a car, and the pain shooting through his right leg definitely leaves him wondering what just happened. And more importantly, what those creatures were. He checks his commlink to tell what time it is before getting his bearings.
When he finally begins looking around, he sees the opening in the hedges and decides it would be best to continue along to find out any more information he can. But this time, he's going in prepared. He strips off his outer clothing to his camouflage suit and activates the ruthenium polymers running through it, holsters his light pistol and pulls out his Eichiro heavy pistol instead. He double checks the load on it, a single explosive shell in the chamber. He tears a piece of his discarded shirt and uses it to bandage his injured leg, being careful to make sure it is all under the camo suit. Once he is finished, he heads to the opening in the hedges to see what lies beyond.
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You'd been out cold for over an hour, it was nearly eight now and the sun was just breaching the horizon and casting a warm glow over the rolling countryside. Mists hung in the lower recesses, waiting for the full heat of the sun to burn through them. The birds had returned, happily tweeting their good mornings to the world. It all seemed too idylic compared to the terror you felt but a moment ago.
Your leg was bruised, as was your chest. You'd been hit by something with a decent amount of mass, the cattle maybe? Or that weird dog-thing? Either way, you had a job to do.
Your pistol felt solid in hand and knowing you were all but invisible strengthened your confidence.
As you pass through the fence, you see the remnants of the herd, some wounded, some living and several dead, scattered about the surrounding fields. Their hunters thankfully were not present.
Ahead in the distance, you can make out the outline of a large country house. A copse of trees and several ploughed fields separated you from the estate, but it matches the rough description given to you last night.
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As Collin makes his way through the fence, he decides it best to maintain a record of what he is seeing here. Before he continues, he quickly snaps a few pictures before returning the small camera to his pocket and making his way towards the building in the distance, pistol in hand.
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The terrain is boggy underfoot. A damp night meant that the surface water had pooled in places and the field boundaries had become very muddy.
You were going to leave tracks, and there was very little you could do about.
After crossing several hedges and stiles, the main frontage of the estate comes into view, partially obscured by the light morning mists hanging in the vales.
Perception test please @ -1 for mist
Ahead of you, beyond one more field lay an access road, winding its way through the rolling green countryside and up a spectacular gravel driveway to the estate house.
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Annoyed that there was no way to avoid leaving tracks, he continues his way to the estate, keeping a wary eye out for any more surprises
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 - Foggy 1 = 4d6, 2 successes (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4137541/)
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Keeping a low profile as you reach the far hedge boundary with the road, you hear the sound of engines.
Peering into the mist, you see the outline of two bikes, emblazoned with East Anglia police logos. The head slowly along the road, passing near by you, and swing up the road towards the estate, moving out of your line of sight
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As the two bikes pass closely by, Collin tries to get a couple of quick shots with his camera to document who exactly is here. Hopefully the logos on the bikes will be able to be seen or at least digitally enhanced to be recognizable. Once they are in the distance, he begins to follow their trail to the estate.
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The photo is a gem, you catch both police bikes, logos and all, turning left into the estate.
You hop the metal gate and cross the country road, giving the police a few minutes head start.
The driveway to the estate was spectacular. Huge landscaped gardens expand to your right and left, trees at regular intervals providing cover.
Infiltration test please
You can see the police bikes parked up directly in front of the estate:
(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4110/5096303227_83c9a52934_o.jpg)
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Agility 3 + Infiltration 3 = 6d6, 2 successes (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4139989/)
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The policemen dismount their bikes and walk up to the front door, knocking loudly.
After several minutes, the door opens and an elderly looking man opens the door a fraction.
The police officer on the right and the elderly man appear to be having a discussion, the door opens more fully.
Audio only perception test please
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Using Clairaudience Spell to hear "closer" (Force 5)
Magic 5 + spellcasting 4 = 9d6, 4 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4140322/)
Resist Drain
Willpower 3 + Charisma 3 = 6d6, 3 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4140323/) no drain damage suffered (Drain = (Force 5 / 2 - 1 = 1)
Perception
Intuition 3 + perception 2 = 5d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4140319/)
Collin creeps as close as he dares watching the motorcyclists talking to the man at the front door, straining to hear, allowing his magical essence to once again seep into the surroundings to better hear what is said.
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As your reach forth and manipulate the mana, you find it much easier than usual. Your magic feels more powerful and easier to meld.
You grasp the last words of the conversation,
Old Man:
"Yep, like I told you, they've all moved in the night. re-arranged. Things weigh several tons, god knows who had the power to lift em, cos i can't see any vehicles or cranes about.
Take a look for yourselves anyway, the track runs off into the fields by the right of the house. I'll go put my boots on and i'll meet you up there"
Policemen:
"Will do sir, and you're sure you didn't see or hear anything unusual?"
Old man:
"I was at the pub that night, they had a lock in. i dont really remember getting home let alone anything weird or suspicious officer"
Policemen:
"Righto, see you up there"
The police tighten up their kit on their belts and head to the right, around the house and out of sight.
The Old man closes the door and passes one of the downstairs windows before disappearing.
-
So they are really investigating what is going on here too, Collin was a bit surprised that they seemed to actually be interested as well. And decided it would be best to follow them to see where the old man was leading them.
-
The path to the right of the house was gravelly underfoot, and it was hard work trying to keep a low profile.
You hear the clang of a gate opening and closing and the muttering of the police officers moving off into the distance, following the track down past the gardens.
In the distance you can make out the stone circle, in a field off to the right of the track.
The track itself is hedged on either side and winds its way along the hillside, providing some cover to hide behind
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Collin grimaces with every step as his feet crunch across the gravel, but he knows that he needs to get closer to the stones to find out exactly what they are, and what significance they play. Once he reaches the hedge row he is able to move a bit quicker, trying to get within hearing distance of the men once again.
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The gate they passed through was going to be an issue,
through it, over it or around it?
locksmith/hardware test if through it, climbing test (hits limited by infiltration) if over it, infiltration if around it.
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Well seeing as I don't have either climbing, locksmithing, or hardware skills, looks like i'm going to be defaulting. I'll go with locksmith
agility 3 - defaulting 1 = 2d6, 1 success (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4143965/)
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The old manual lock is pretty rusty, and given a hard enough wiggle, comes off the panel in the old wooden fence with a crack. You wince as the sound reverberates but the police have enough of a lead on you to be out of earshot.
The old gate creaks and groans as you open it and every crunch of gravel sounds like a thousand fire trucks as you desperately try to be quiet.
The police are talking shop, you don't gain much information from listening in, but you infer there is a heavy police presence in the area.
You begin to make your way down the pathway to the field and can make out the stone blocks through the early morning mist. Something about them just feels, chilling, a feeling of dread begins to tickle at your senses. the closer you become however, the more "awakened" you feel. Its hard to put into words, but you feel more powerful
Audio only perception test please and the final infiltration test for the approach to the stone circle, don't forget any wound/sustaining -ve modifiers
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Casting Clairaudience to get a closer ear
Magic 5 + spellcasting 4 = 9d6, 4 successes (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4145524/)
Resist Drain
Willpower 3 + Charisma 3 = 6d6, 5 successes (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4145529/) no drain damage suffered
Perception
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 = 5d6, 1 success (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4145530/)
Infiltration
Agility 3 + Infiltration 3 - sustained spell 1 = 5d6, 1 success (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4145542/)
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Your careful focus on not making too much noise while you follow the police pays off, they've clearly not noticed you as you round the side of the house and take cover in the hedge.
The mana weaves and melds to your will effortlessly, though before you have time to realise why it felt so easy, the back door slams behind you and you hear the whistling old gentleman crucnhing along the gravel, heading towards the officers. and you....
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Drek! Collin almost shouts out loud, but instead immediately begins looking for a way out. He's stuck, the old men on one side, the police on the other, the crunching gravel underfoot and the hedges along the side of the path. The hedges! the thought jumps into his mind unbidden. He immediately dives over the hedges, praying that no one heard his attempt and remains unnoticed.
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6d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4146978/)
Infiltration test at -2 for rushing/distracted, threshold 2.
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Agility 3 + Infiltration 3 - Rushing/distracted 2 = 4d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4147770/)
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Diving into the hedge, you lay low, hold your breath and try not to move.
The whistling gentleman crunches on past you as your lungs burn with the strain, seemingly unaware of your close call.
-
Holding his breath until the man has passed, Collin finally releases the pressure in his lungs once he is sure he is out of hearing range. Now on the other side of the hedge, he crawls his way along, keeping the hedge between himself and the three men. His clairaudience spell still active, he creeps just close enough to find out what they are talking about by the strange moving stones.
-
So sir, you're absolutely sure these have moved?
Yes, without a doubt. look at the bare patches of grass here, here and here
One of the policemen could be seen taking images with a professional looking camera
Look officers, i have photographic and historical evidence that these are now in a different position. Something about the area just feels odd too, do you feel it?
No sir, i just feel baffled as to why someone would do this. Have you made any enemies recently? any history of other items going missing?
No,No, not at all! Some of the others in the village have things go missing, and they say something is savaging the cattle at night but i've not seen anything to that effect.
Okay, look we'll have to file a report and come back with the full investigation team. As you can imagine, things are a bit hectic at the moment so it might be an hour or so before we're back. If you could send over those historical records, it would help a lot. In the meantime, please close the pathway and keep anyone from interfering with the area. we must now treat this as a crime scene.
Certainly gentlemen, I will do.
The three of them headed away from the stone circle and back towards the house, passing your hiding spot again without breaking stride, still deep in thought.
The rumble of the bike engines and slam of the back door meant that you were in the clear, though the stone circle could easily be overlooked from the back windows of the estate.
-
Once the men leave, he quickly scans the area to make sure no one is looking and takes a few snapshots of the rocks and where they used to be, detailing that they were not in fact drug to their new location. Once he is satisfied that the shots are at least decent, Collin retreats to a safer hiding location and opens his mind's eye to the astral plane to see what he can detect on the other plane.
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As you shift sideways to the astral, you are overcome by a feeling of doom and fear.
The standing stones glow an otherworldly glow and you feel much more powerful the nearer you get to the stones.
for clarity the area within the stones is an aspected domain with +2 background count. you don't know the aspect without an assensing test
You notice that the largest stone has some kind of inscription on it, above a small flat recess and is obscured by a large cylindrical hazy astral wall
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Collin slides back into his normal senses, and shakes his head to clear the sudden rush of magical noise surrounding the entire area. Unable to accurately assess just what kind of noise is floating about, he instead decides to see if he can get a closer look at the symbol carved on the stone.
No assensing ability... definitely something to look into getting after this mission, as I can't default on it. So instead, move closer and see what the symbol looks like after making a quick look to make sure no one is looking from the house
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The symbol is stragely alluring, it pulses with an energy that reviles and allures you at the same time.
knowledge: arcana (symbols) test please
As you move closer to inspect the symbol, you feel resistance to your movement. The hazy opaque cylinder you saw on the astral has a presence in the physical and prevents you getting any closer
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Realizing he can't get any closer to the strange symbol, Collin quickly takes a picture of it and tries to figure out just what it could mean
Man... going to have to default on this one. I am assuming that it will fall under the academic knowledge skill set, so defaults to Logic.
Logic 4 - Defaulting 1 = 3d6, 1 hit (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4159495/)
If you think it should fall under another category, let me know and I will amend the roll.
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The symbol looks familiar, you're sure you've seen something kind of similar in a text book a few years back.
You can't recall where you've seen it or what it means, but you get a good shot of it. Maybe one of your contacts can shed some light on it...
logic is fine for this mate, you'll be able to spend your karma on new skills when this mission is finished and you'll have two weeks downtime
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Collin checks the camera once more to make sure the shot was clear before backing up and taking more wide angle shots. There didn't seem a lot else he could do investigatively from this area without any kind of connection to the outside world, so he begins the painstakingly slow process of retracing his steps back to the small inn he came from.
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As you sneak back round to the front edge of the estate, you see two police cars escorting an unmarked car down the road the bikes came from at speed.
The sun was beginning to burn off the morning haze, and in the distance you could make out the church spire and the outline of the Village you were sent here to investigate. The road from the estate swept and meandered through the surrounding fields and shouldn't take more than 20 minutes, even being careful to stay out of sight wouldnt add much to that.
The grizly remains of the now scattered cattle could be seen further up the hillside towards the copse of trees you came through. it would only be a matter of time before someone spotted them and called it in, and you had no way to tell if this mornings assailants were going to get hungry again.
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As the fog lifts from the street and the church steeple comes into view, Collin realizes that there is still much to be explored, and the thought of running into those creatures again seems a bit terrifying at the moment. So instead, he turns towards the church and sticking to the wooded areas as best he can along the road, he makes his way into the town proper.
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The road winds and weaves through fields, and now the sun is up, it is quite a pleasant morning stroll for you.
Pangs of hunger start to rumble in your stomach though, the hurried slice of toast didn't quite hit the spot!
You didn't see another soul until you arrived on the outskirts of the village, you could see the police roadblock up ahead from your vantage point behind a low hedge on a bank above the road.
An old metal "road closed" sign was stood in front of a police patrol car and a bored looking young officer was twiddling with something on the patrol car's internal screens.
From the garbled reflection you could see through the windshield, it appeared to be some kind of game.
You are in a field, slightly elevated above the left side of the road (about 3-6ft). a low and patchy hedge provides some cover to hide behind.
The fields on the right side are also slightly elevated, leaving the police car facing you in a small gulley. the policeman is distracted, and you've got about 200m of field to cover before you hit the nearest buildings. the road ahead of the police car splits into a T-junction, and houses line this junction into the heart of the village.
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Realizing that the police officer is probably too distracted to notice his movements, Collin eases his way past the cruiser making sure to stick to the blind spots of the car as best he can. He makes his way into the village and tries to find the least noticeable path to the T intersection of the roads and keeps peering into windows of houses along the way to see if anything catches his eye or if there are even people still here.
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The policeman doesn't even look up from his game as you sneak past the car, sticking to the thicker parts of the hedge for concealment.
The ground is boggy underfoot near the hedgerow and soon, your boots and the bottom of your chameleon suit is soon plastered in thick cloying mud.
Climbing down the small embankment is easy, you reach the T-junction with no difficulty.
A brief scan around the streets shows you that the place is pretty quiet, shops are closed, there is no obvious movement and you can't hear any nearby traffic.
The T-Junction is main street, it splits off to the left and right ahead of you. From your viewpoint on the embankment earlier you know that left takes you into the village centre and right takes you more into the residential areas.
Infiltration {urban} test please
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Knowing that the city center would probably provide more clues, Collin decides to head that way first. As he goes he attempts to wipe the mud from his boots, but seeing that it is coming of no avail, he knows that he will have to tread extra lightly to keep people from noticing the conspicuously muddy feet walking with no body attached to them.
Agi 3 + infiltration 3 =6d6, 1 hit (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4182502/) Gross....
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The village opened up into the main square.
Keeping low and using various parked cars, hedges and front gardens for cover, you manage to get a good view over the village square.
An empty police car is parked outside of the Three Lions pub to the left side of the square, which is closed
Ahead of you is the green, it's sculpted garden resplendent in the sunshine. the local shop to the right of the square was closed, but you noticed some signs of activity beyond the green at the church.
It was difficult to tell what was going on at this distance, and you strained your senses to pick up a clue
perception test please, spatial recognizer included if you have it
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Cast Clairaudience
Magic 5 + Spellcasting 4 = 9d6, 1 hit (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4188308/)
Resist Drain
Willpower 3 + Charisma 3 = 6d6, 4 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4188311/)
Perception Test
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 = 5d6, 1 hit (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4188312/)
Summoning the mana of the surroundings into his body once more, Collin allows his senses to stretch beyond his body to determine what is going on in the church.
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You're not sure exactly what the sounds you hear are, but it sounds like a fight broke out. you can hear that there are multiple combatants involved, but struggle to make out what is what and who is winning
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Knowing that something is amiss, Collin moves closer to the commotion, certain that the fighting will cover any sound of his movements. He readies his hatamoto heavy pistol as he closes the distance, not wanting to relive the attack from the beasts in the woods
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You pass the empty police car head through the sculpted garden on the village green, taking cover behind some topiary before closing in on the church grounds.
Beyond the main building of the church you can make out two waxy skinned humanoids feasting on something, something near or in a grave...
The stench was stomach churning and the realisation of what you were seeing made you sick
Composure test (3) please[/spoiler]
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Composure Test Willpower 3 + Charisma 3 = 6d6, 4 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4191939/)
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Bile rises in the back of your throat at the sound and smell of the ongoing feast ahead of you.
Bits of limb have been discarded near the waxy skinned beasts, you can just about make out the insignia of a police officer on an arm, and the sound of radio traffic is relayed to you via the effects of your spell.
It also appears several of the graves have recently been disturbed.
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Oh good god... The taste of bile at the back of his throat almost chokes Collin as he realizes what is going on. Knowing that these creatures must be somehow related to the creatures in the woods that attacked him earlier, he knows that a fair fight will never get him anywhere. Praying that the sound doesn't attract their attention, he quickly takes a few pictures of the creatures and their grisly task before surveying the surroundings, looking for any way that he could gain an advantage that would help him defeat these creatures.
I don't know if it is fully necessary but I will make what I assume is a proper perception test to see if there is anything that could be used advantageously
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 + 3 actively looking -2 distracted = 6d6, 4 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4194226/)
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there is a large branch over them, the right spell could help bring that down on them. To be fair you have total surprise on them, they won't be able to react ubntil after your first pass
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Yeah, I just like to see my options before I jump in though... especially 2 on 1. The branch should do nicely though
I know this is about to blow any cover I've had since I got here, but I really hope that any of the police that do come will be a bit too distracted with those flesheating creatures than with me, Collin rechecks the load on his Eichiro Heavy Pistol, he loads the single round internal magazine with an explosive shell and readies himself for what is about to come.
He takes careful aim at the base of the branch and squeezes the trigger
First drop Clairaudience spell as a free action
Then first standard action, shoot tree limb
Agility 3 + Pistols 2 + take aim 1 = 6d6, 1 hit (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4195464/)
So 8 Damage resisted by the trees 3 armor (4 base, -1 AP from pistol) the average tree only has a structure rating of 5, so I think it should be taking out the branch just fine
And for the second standard action, I'll have Collin cast Ignite on whichever of the two zombie-things looks less under the branch than the other
Magic 5 + Spellcasting 4 = 9d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4195465/)
Resist drain
Willpower 3 + Charisma 3 = 6d6, 3 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4195468/) Spell drain: Force 5 divided by 2, round down = 2, no drain damage taken
For zombie resisting ignite, he can resist with body+counterspell (if he has it, oh how i hope he doesn't....), if he gets 3 or more successes he doesn't ignite. If less, he takes 5 physical damage (resisted by body + 1/2 impact armor) on the first turn and then increases by 1 damage per following turn if not extinguished.
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You focus for a second, controlling your breathing and steadying the iron sights of the pistolat the join of the bough of the tree.
A gentle squeeze precedes a loud explosion and the recoil jarrs your shoulder. The round impacts precisely where you wanted it, its miniature explosive charge sending a large burst of splinters downwards into the fracas below.
The noise of the round stuns the two beasts, they only have enough time to stop their feast before the cracking and groaning of the falling branch crushes them beneath its weight.
Slinging the bolt of burning mana into the carnage finalises the deal. you hear the beast's tortured screams as bursts into flames, igniting its wooden prison and setting it ablaze.
Its unearthly howls pierce your soul, something deeply unnatural amplifies its voice as it writhes in blistering pain.
The first beast must have been knocked out by the impact, the smell of burning flesh is its only protest in death.
Taking a second to gather your senses, you know there is no way that the unnatural howls, gunfire and blazing inferno is going to go unnoticed for long.
The other side of the village square lay the village hall, where you expect the village's matrix connection to have been severed.
Further along main street you expect to find your main objective, the Talislegger's house and workshop.
Whatever you do, you'll have to do it fast, before the police react or more of those beasts arrive
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No time to worry about the matrix connection now, Collin sprints down the main street praying that the police don't see him. There has to be something to explain all of this
As he runs, the Eichiro ejects the spent casing and he loads another, can never be too certain what is to come after all
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The blood pumps in your ears as you sprint down the main street.
All around you appears deserted, nothing but discarded litter blowing on the wind to keep you company. Except for the blaring police sirens.
The sirens sound from behind you, probably the patrol car you snook past earlier, but it sounds like there is more than one set.
As you cover more ground, the main street starts to thin out, houses get further apart and have more land, more impressive gardens and nicer cars. As you get almost to the end of the village boundary, you make out the workshop and barn described to you as the target building. A small driveway on your right leads through a thin copse of trees and on to the building.
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As the building comes into sight, Collin cuts to the right along the edge of the driveway and makes his way to the treeline as quickly as he can, wanting to get back into cover before anyone else shows up.
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As you duck into the tree line, the sound of sirens blares from ahead and behind you.
Two marked and one unmarked police car come haring down the main street toward the scene of the blaze., followed soon after by a fire response unit.
A large plume of smoke can be seen emanating from next to the church tower as you look over your shoulder, your bravery and action pays off as the blaze has created the perfect distraction for the police.
It should give you enough time to explore the barn + workshop while they work on putting out the fire. Seizing the opportunity, you make your way towards the target.
Perception and infiltration tests please
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Relieved to see the response units heading away, Collin finds himself able to breath a bit easier for the moment and begins taking in the barn and workshop.
For some reason invisible castle is giving me a "service not available" error, so I found this other dice roller through google, not quite as nice, but it should work
Perception Test
3 Intuition + 2 Perception =5d6, 2 hits (http://www.random.org/dice/?num=5)
Infiltration Test
3 Agility + 3 Infiltration = 6d6, 1 hit (http://www.random.org/dice/?num=6)
hmm for being toted as the most truly random dice roller online, this one sure comes up with a lot of threes...
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Small branches crack and leaves crunch underfoot as you wind your way through the trees towards the house-come-workshop, checking for signs of life as you go.
Entering the barn first, you find that the large stable doors are unlocked, the wood where the locks would have been affixed is splintered and broken.
Beyond the door lies the living quarters. The room is in disarray, papers, clothes, cushions strewn on the floor. someone or something has clearly taken the place to bits looking for something.
You get the impression that the room is expensively dressed, even though the room has been upturned, nothing looks cheap.
The smell of death and decay grabs your throat, a trail of blood leading through from the main doors continues through the living quarters and disappears under a door to another room.
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Collin is immediately caught off guard by the stench of the room. Drek, that's awful! There's gotta be something dead or dying in here he thinks as be nudges the door open and takes in the expensively furnished room. Before venturing further he snaps a couple more pictures to make sure there is a record of what has happened, then puts away the camera and pulls out his small silenced pistol. He follows the smeared blood trail to the door and listens at the door before checking the knob and going in.
If there is sound at the door, he'll first try to identify what it is before going through.
Also, sorry for the long delay, I have once again been having difficulty getting my internet connection to find this website. Not sure why it's only this site that has so much of an issue...
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The stench strengthens as you approach the door. After standing silently for nearly 30 seconds, you're only aware of the sound of your own breathing, small quiet breaths straining against the need to remain quiet.
Confident that nothing was making any noise on the other side,
it'll speed things up if you just roll perception tests when you think they're appropriate mate, i'll disregard them if they're not necessary, dont worry in this instance though.
You twist the handle slowly, pointing the barrel of the pistol into the growing void of the door as you ease it open gently.
There was no let up from the stench, if anything, it got stronger.
With the door fully open, the source of the stench is immediately obvious.
The decaying corpse of a large dog lays on its side, bloated and fly ridden, a large gash present in its flank, clearly the source of the trail of blood left throughout the ground floor.
Composure test (2) please, the stink is horrendous, you'll feel nauseous (-2 to all tests) while in this room on a fail
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As the stench grows stronger and Collin finds the source, he is mortified by the sight and immediately covers him mouth with his hand.
Composure Test
Willpower 3 + Charisma 3 = 6d6, 3 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4218855/)
While he is disgusted, he manages to press further into the room, giving the dead animal a wide berth and checking around the room for details of what could have happened, or what is going on in this place. Is this some kind of sick ritual? he wonders as he searches for clues.
Perception Test
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 = 5d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4218856/)
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As far as you can tell, the wound was caused by a knife, or sword, probably in defense. Shards of clothing can be seen between the teeth of the dead dog, it must have taken a chunk out of whoever was here before being killed in return.
The room you are currently in is clearly the kitchen for the residence. It hasn't been as badly disturbed as the previous room, and the power is still on, judging by the quiet hum of the fridge.
Two doors are present aside from the one you entered. Both on the far side of the room. The right side of the room is covered by cupboards, a cooker and worksurfaces. A small dining table and chairs are pushed up on the left side of the room. The corpse is in the centre of the floor.
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Well lets see what we've got behind door number one Collin thinks as he moves to the left door and presses his ear to it. Once certain of what is behind the door, he will move slowly into the next room with his pistol ready, the same way as he entered the kitchen.
Perception Test
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 = 5d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4228951/)
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The right hand side door is totally quiet as you press your ear against the wood.
Opening the door reveals a darkened stairway down into a basement.
A light switch is located on the left hand side wall, a blood splatter present on the walk beneath it.
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Trusting his low light vision to guide him, Collin decides to forego the lightswitch for the time being. No need to draw attention to himself just yet, and heads down the stairs slowly.
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The stairs squeak and creak with each step as the darkness encroaches on you. The green hue of your lowlight vison slowly begins to take over as the ambient light drops and a curious scent envelops you as you reach the bottom of the steps and turn to your left and look into the main room.
From a brief scan of the features, you can make out that the room is dominated by a large fireplace at one end, which appears to be adorned with varying bric-a-brac. the floor is mostly empty aside from a small kneeling-table. The stairs you came down are the only route into and out of the room.
visual only perception test @ -2 for low light (rather than -6)
The scent is overly cloying, sweet even, and reminds you of something.. something you can't quite place...
Memory test please
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Perception Roll
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 - Circumstance 2 = 3d6, 1 hit[//url]
Memory Test
Logic 4 + Willpower 3 = 7d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4242575/)
(http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4242569/)
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As your eyes focus in the amplified half-light spilling down from the kitchen, you're able to pick out greater detail about the room.
The fireplace that dominates the room has a curious empty spot, a place devoid of trinketry and bric-a-brac. The presence of an empty space in such a cluttered environment stands out to you as odd.
Much of the Bric-a-brac reminds you of talismans of varying schools you'd seen in magic text-books and reagents cover the small kneeling table.
The heavy cloying smell reminds you of your days bumming about from shelter to shelter in the shitty bits of London, the Hobos speedballing from inhalers and smoking roll-ups mixed with whatever their meagre cash reserves would allow for.
You recognise this particular scent as the old awakened fave; Pysche and Red Mesc. Just what you'd need to push the boundaries of an enchantment or ritual.
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Realizing that these items are exactly what could have caused all of the problems in this village, Collin sets the flash on his camera, takes a few shots of the room quickly and then sets to gathering what evidence he can find. Best to document it all later when there isn't so much danger around. Once satisfied with the gathered items he makes his way back upstairs to check the other closed door.
Perception check at the door if it is necessary:
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 = 5d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4242987/)
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The low light really impedes your photography. the flash tends to overcompensate for the darkness, leaving everything a touch overexposed and exaggerating the shadows on the varying talismae in the room.
The curious empty space in the middle of the fireplace takes a good shot however.
Spinning around and heading back up the stairs out of the basement, you find the second door is open.
You carefully push open the door, keeping the barrel of the pistol pointing into the void.
This stairway is well lit and smells fresh, except for the streaks of blood seen on the stairs and smeared handprints on the lower section of the wall.
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What the.... He leaves the thought unfinished as he makes his way slowly down the stairs. The light in this staircase making it much easier to see, yet the presence of the bloody handprints has him on edge. As he reaches the bottom of the stairs he will try to determine who or what has been here, and where the blood leads.
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Heading up the stairs, you see that whatever left the bloody prints was clearly badly wounded. As far as you can see, someone had been kneeling/crawling their way up here, using the lower section of the wall as a support.
The stairs creak and groan underfoot as they turn left into the converted loft space. A sickening smell of burnt flesh is barely concealed by sweet smelling incense, the smell strengthening as you ascend the stairs as slowly and as quietly as you can.
The blood splatters turn into obvious streaks. the effort of clambering up here must have taken its toll on the wounded person, patches of dried, dark blood have congealed on the stairs and and threshold. as your eyes break level with the floor, you can make out the slumped form of a body, your nose confirms what your eyes are seeing; this man body hasn't moved in several days. Flies buzz about the corpse and the stench is overpowering, much worse than the dog downstairs.
perception as you enter the room please
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Collin is forced to cover his nose and mouth with his forearm to keep from coughing at the smell. At first drawn to the body, he knows that clues around the room will likely give him more answers than just a corpse.
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 = 5d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4245997/)
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You rise slowly up the remaining stairs, each ancient floorboard squeaking in protest as it takes your weight. Reaching the top of the stairs gives you the full horror of the grizly scene in front of you.
The room was obviously a bedroom. It was well appointed with plush furnishings. Directly ahead of you was the corpse. against the back and right walls ahead of you was a lush four poster bed, a shrine of some description next to it, in line with the corpse.
To the left of you were wardrobes, a chest of drawers and a small work area, featuring a desk, a chair and a holoterminal. The desk is almost behind you, in the recess of the stairwell you ascended.
The remains of the person in front of you have begun to decompose, but it was obvious that they'd clearly died in extreme pain.
A small metallic handle of some description was visible between the shoulder blades of the dead person, bloodstained and covered in flies. Pooled dried blood lay in the recess of the contorted corpse's lower spine and had dribbled onto the floor, creating the trail you'd been following in.
The body had clearly been in a fight. Charred burn marks could be seen on several aspects of his lower limbs and a chunk of flesh was missing from it's right calf, a seared and burnt mass was all that remained.
It's left arm was outstretched, almost as if it were reaching for something.
Arcana or an applicable knowledge tests to inspect the shrine
Composure + perception to approach the body.
Hardware to inspect the terminal etc.
This place is really horrible, the stench is overpowering. please apply -2 dice pool modifier when working in the real world (not applicable to VR or astral)
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Composure
Willpower 3 + Charisma 3 = 6d6, 3 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4248848/)
Perception
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 = 5d6, 2 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4248853/)
Default to Logic for Arcana Test: Logic = 3, -1 for Defaulting, -2 for distractions, minimum 1 die
1d6, 0 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4248855/) (as was expected)
Default t Logic for Hardward Test: Logic = 3, -1 for Defaulting, -2 for distractions, minimum 1 die
Woo a natural 1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4248860/)... hope poking around looking didn't destroy the terminal O.o
Perception test 2 for astral space
Intuition 3 + Perception 2 = 5d6, 5 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4248865/) So that's where all my luck went...
Collin coughs into his sleeve as he enters the room. The scene unfolding before him paints the picture of a horrible ritualistic sacrifice, but he is unable to determine exactly what has happened at this time. He knows that he needs to get the word out of exactly what has happened to the rest of the world, this can't go on out here any longer. Knowing better than to disturb the location, he takes numerous pictures, including close up shots of the shrine, the dagger, the terminal and the wounds to the body. He works quickly in the physical world before opening his mind's eye to the astral plane to inspect the room before leaving.
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You manage to keep hold of your stomach as you get closer to the body, a swarm of flies erupts from the wound as you close in to take the photographs, dispersing around the room, buzzing angrily at the skylight as it denies them a route into the afternoon sun.
The weapon embedded in the wound features an intricate pattern on the pommel, your camera captures it perfectly. as you take more photos of the body, you reach it's face. Though contorted in agony and bloated from several days in the sun, it is just about recognisable as the target of your investigation. Double checking the mugshot that Herb gave you, you were fairly sure it was him.
Following his outstretched arm, you see he was reaching for something off the shrine, or maybe calling to the shrine for help?
As you took shots of it, you can tell intuitively that something is missing from the shrine.
Between the organised chaos of offerings, incense and reagents, there is an omission; a gap.
You can't figure out exactly who or what the shrine is dedicated to, or what would be missing from it, but its a reasonable guess that someone you knew would be able to assist from your photograph.
As you head to the terminal, you trip over the outstretched arm, it's rigour mortis enhancing its strength sizeably, catching you off balance. More flies are dislodged from the decaying body, causing you to swat and waft your arms. A not-so-deft blow knocks the terminal onto the floor with a metallic clunk. No matter how many times you press the power button, it remains in an "off" status.
Cursing your clumsiness and the disgusting conditions, you climb back to your feet and clear your mind of the physical, stepping sideways into the corporeal.
Immediately you are assaulted by the taint of death and rot. The brutal murder has left its mark on astral space, a dark zone surrounds the fallen body.
A bright glare emanates from the dark shadow of the killed man, the dagger in his spine clearly some form of bound foci.
The shrine pulsates with aura, almost too bright to look at. As you focus your second sight on it, a watcher spirit materialises in front of you and begins to speak in a deep, controlled voice.
Fy enw i yw Martin, yr wyf wedi bod o dan fygythiad gan ddau asiantau sefydliad am ddau fis. Heddiw, yr wyf yn talu pris am beidio â chydymffurfio â'u gofynion. Maent yn ceisio pŵer yn y pen draw a bydd yn aros ar ddim. Maent yn llygredig, gwenwynig, drwg yn y bwriad. Rhaid iddynt beidio â llwyddo
Language test: Gaelic (2) or Welsh (1), no -ve mods in the astral.
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The only language I've got is German... so not really any help with whatever the watcher is saying. Maybe I'll see if I can write down / remember what the words sounded like at least to attempt to get it translated later on. Pretty sure I can't try to bind the watcher to me and repeat the same thing later to someone that can translate because I don't think watcher spirits really work that way. They are much more apt to just disappear after their limited use...
Collin curses his luck as the dead man manages to trip him and he is left with a now useless terminal. Unable to turn it on, he quickly checks to see if he could possibly pull out any memory cards or disks that may be in the system that he could exploit later on.
Upon hearing the message from the watcher spirit, he returns his senses to the normal world once again and tries to write down the message as phonetically as possible. Hopefully he'll be able to get it translated elsewhere and get some idea of what really happened here. Finally, he takes a pillow case from the bed, pulls the engraved knife from the dead man's back and wraps the pillow case around it. If nothing else, it'll bring a pretty penny to the right buyer. And the police have bungled their way through this investigation enough, they won't be any more capable of solving the case even with this bit of evidence.
With his pictures and newfound prize, he leaves the room, it's time to get some answers, and he needs to get in contact with his sources.
Not sure if any data storage items are found, if they are, he will of course take them with him as well. He doesn't have the hardware skill, but he does have computer, and I assume that should be enough to at least identify a hard drive or other storage device and pull it out of the computer by unplugging it
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The holo-terminal is a sealed unit, one of those Corp mass produced things you can only get servicedat their licensed retailers. Whilst you can't crack the case here, you know babydoll would certainly be able to help with that. You find a small satchel bag in the chest of drawers and stuff the terminal and dagger inside it
no tests written for that kind of transcription, give me log + int and I'll figure
Something out :-)
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Logic 4 + Intuition 3 = 7d6, 3 hits (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4251209/)
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You begin scribbling whatever you can into your commlink, dictating and annotating as best as you can, before grabbing your stuff and heading back to the outside world.
The gravel drive crunches underfoot as you exit the way you came in, the sunlight and fresh air a welcome relief after the stench of death and decay inside. A gentle breeze stirs the trees lining the driveway, the fluffy clouds accelerating across the sky, perhaps a forewarning of worse weather to come today.
Sirens could still be seen flashing over in the distance, a plume of steam and smoke indicating the fire was now under control, your distraction coming to an end.
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Knowing that his time had about run out on his distraction, Collin begins his trip back to the woods, back to civilization and hopefully to some answers
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Knowing that heading back into the village would be risky, you head further down the country road out of the village and head up a small embankment and through a gate into a large, fallow field.
Keeping your head down and taking your time, you eventually find a route back to the inn, avoiding the thicket where you were ambushed by the vicious para-critters.
Your stomach growls in protest at the lack of decent food for the last couple of days as you slink down the alley, the aroma of freshly prepared steak and ale pie drifting down wind of the pub.
Your commlink chirps in your pocket, notifying you that you're back in signal range.
Its now late-afternoon, and the sky is beginning to show the first signs of the dusky haze settling over the countryside. An hour or two and it'll be dark, and whatever it was that you encountered earlier will no doubt be back on the prowl...
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Finding the alternate path, Collin follows it back to his truck first to get his normal clothes put back on, then drives back to the bar. As he parks, the smell of the foods being prepared inside are intoxicating, and he makes his way inside to order something to eat. He sits down at an empty table and pulls out his camera, connecting it to his commlink and opening a new message to BabyDoll and Mike
//Matrix Message Protocol 1.0.2b//<<BaByDoll101>>// -- // <<MikeyMike20>> Hey, got a series of pictures attached, and a message in some language I don't understand. Seems like there is definitely a lot going on out here. Think you could look into it and let me know if you find anything? Also, sorry for the crappy transliteration, I only heard the message once, and I wrote it down as phonetically as possible. <<Attachments>>//
He hits the send button, coding his Commlink to send separately, not wanting to mix BabyDoll's information into Mike's message. Having your cop friend know about your hacker friend would usually be a bad thing.
As the food arrives, he digs in hungrily and finishes quickly. Then it's time to get out of here, and back to his flat.
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___Prologue___
Mike was gutted, he'd lost a good friend to day.
He recognised the language as Welsh and was able to get the basic jist of what the watcher had spoken to you; it was a dire warning, a warning of a new dark power. something hungry for expansion and conquest.
The dark omen didn't bode well for the rural folk, and the inadequacies of the police hinted at some element of deliberate complicity within the law enforcement.
You'd managed to salvage the holo-terminal, babydoll promised to take a look at it and retrieve what she could over the next few days. Perhaps she could reveal more than you were able to in your short visit to Oakhampton?
END OF CHAPTER 1
Congratulations, you managed to survive!
Please add 1200NY to your funds, as well as 6 karma.
there'll be a short break in things until the others get wrapped up with ch2, I'll get you working with that team now as we've lost dragonslayer and raiden.
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Sounds good, how would you like me to handle spending Karma points? Specifically, I would like to have Collin learn 2 points in Assensing and increase perception by 1 point (I think that equals out to 6 points total if the system still works the same way as it did previously)
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That's fine mate, go ahead and add them to your character sheet. This was only meant to be a quick stress-test before the main missions anyway. I'll get ch2 wrapped up and skip you ahead to ch3 when it's up