Shadowrun
Shadowrun Play => Play-by-Post => Topic started by: cr4kp0t on <01-05-14/1307:10>
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From Russia with Love!
OOC thread (http://forums.shadowruntabletop.com/index.php?topic=14321.0)
Cast:
Lumen - Street Sam - Lynx
Csjarrat - Free running Adept/Hacker. - Flea
Scawire - Mage -
Synopsis:
The Vory run this town and the Police are in their pocket. The idea of honest law is long gone in this town. The only people the Vory haven’t bought off is the KGB but it doesn’t matter who finds you and catches you they are all brutal and tough your only hope of survival is to not get caught.
The corps have a strong presence in this thriving metropolis but by far the biggest presence is from Evo, controlling a major arcology in the heart of the city nearly everything runs into or out of there somehow. They are not the only big player out there though Saeder Krupp has a strong influence in the city and to a lesser degree so does MCT.
It is bitterly cold winter in Moscow the work had been scarce over the last few months with little more than millruns to tide things over but now a new player has arrived in town and suddenly the shadows have come alive! Is there work out there for you…?
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It was late in the evening when the message came through to your comm; a rather nondescript promise of work, the meeting point was a bar in a run down beat up neighborhood on the edge on the city.
[Message protocol 1a initiated]
>>> incoming message >>>
>
>Hello,
>
>An associate of mine for whom you have worked recently provided me with your details.
>I have a job that I believe is well suited to your groups capabilities.
>
>If your interest I have arranged for a room to be available in a local tavern.
>Privacy is assured.
>
>Tell the barman that “‘The count’ is expecting me” he will take it from there.
>
>If your interested then be there by 9pm tonight!
>
> <datafile – chernyy medved' (The Black Bear)>
>
>>> message terminated >>>
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Flea shut the ancient window as tight as she could against the bitter siberian wind buffeting the northern aspect of her apartment block.
The tired soyprocessor glugged and whirred noisily as it prepared her ramen noodles. Flea took to the window frames with duct-tape, desperately trying to keep the arctic breeze out of the small 3rd floor apartment.
It wasn't much, but it had served as home for the past year. And what a year it had been, first Dad had died, then she'd been fired, then she'd ended up a runner, a courier and occasional data-miner no less.
Moscow's winters were always harsh and she was getting pretty tired of it, once she'd earned enough dough, she'd get on a plane and head back to Okinawa.
Her commlink vibrated harshly against the cheap HDF furniture of the living-diner area with the incoming message.
"Agent, play message on home node speakers"
Flea took a seat next to the soyprocessor and vigorously attacked her noodles with the chopsticks as the message played over the audio system.
"Agent, send reply; See you there, do we need to arrive fully equipped?"
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Corkscrew leaned back in his armchair by the window as he heard a fresh rush of cold wind assault his house. The insulation and heating made sure that the elements were kept well at bay, but he shivered nonetheless. During days like this, he did not envy those who did not have the luxury of a heating system, or even four walls in some cases. Many of his friends and colleagues fell amongst this number, and while Cork considered Shadowrunning to be one of the more respectable professions out there, he had to admit that so few of them knew how to take pleasure in the simpler comforts in life.
Speaking of comforts, Cork thought to himself, glancing out of the window at the house opposite his. On the roof sat a repairman who was fiddling with a broken solar panel. His hands must have gone numb from the cold, because he had been up there in the dark for a long time. The lack of power in this private estate meant that drones were only used in exceptional circumstances, and this particular gated community prided itself on the strictly metahuman touch it provided.
Cork was about to draw his curtains and find something to read when the unpleasant sound of his commlink stopped him in his tracks. He had gone to great lengths to choose the softest, least abrasive alert sound possible, but no matter what he tried the sound always turned his stomach upside down.
"If this is someone trying to order a pizza again..." Corkscrew muttered to himself before checking the message.
'The Count'. He smiled to himself. He hoped it wasn't a vampire, too many people were out for his blood already.
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Lynx wearily taps the flashing icon indicating an incoming message. He gives the message a quick read through and looks around at his crummy apartment. Empty soyfood containers littered the run down old room taking up more space than his meager possessions. An old worn recliner sat mere inches from a leaky and rusted radiator that could barely even take the edge off the frigid temperatures. A few feet away a fold out canvas cot sits piled with blankets. Ever since his "retirement" the nuyen have been few and far between and this shitty little hole in the wall was all he could afford.
*Perhaps it is time to put my skills to use once again. The truck will need a tune up soon and I must get a new heater for the cabin. A soldier should not have to sink to such depths to make a living but at least the bar will be warm.*
The tall bearded man wraps his jacket tightly around him ventures out into the cold. He heads down to his old beat up Gopher, it had seen better days but Mikhail did his best to keep it in working order. The fender was bent and crumpled in several places and the bed was almost constantly filled with snow but it had good tires and the heat worked. Lynx climbs up into the cab and cranks her up turning the heat to full blast.
Current Loadout:
Armor Jacket
+Insulation 2
+Concealable Holster
+Concealable Holster
Form-Fitting Half-Body Suit
SecureTech Shin Guards
Comlink
Biomonitor
Earbuds Rating 2
+Audio Enhancement Rating 3
+Spatial Recognizer
Fake SIN (Vladimir Vitsin) Rating 4
+Fake License (Wired Reflexes) Rating 4
+Fake License (Ares Predator IV) Rating 4
Medkit Rating 6
2 Ares Predator IV (In concealable holsters inside jacket)
1 Spare Clip - Regular Ammo
1 Spare Clip - SnS Ammo
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@ Csjarrat
Your comm is quick to reply to your query with its faithful chirp.
[Message protocol 1.1b initiated]
>> message failed to deliver unable to locate PAN
>
>> <failed message report>
[Message protocol terminated]
The delivery report indicates that the comm just does't seem to exist and can't be connect to.
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The winter wind whistled outside the windows, but for now Raróg was content. He had spent the last day watching the news, checking financial reports and listening to the music of a old German band, We Butter Oor Bread With Butter, while drinking tea. It had been a good day to be inside and recharge.
When the commlink signaled an incoming message he groaned and checked it, just knowing it was going to take him away from his relatively comfortable day and out into the cold. He read the message and then shrugged. Business is business. Better to make money now than have none. Gathering his coat and a few essentials he prepared for a night out. Activating his commlink he brought up the agent..."Mycroft, do a search on the address given in the last incoming message. Any news articles in the last six months, owner of record and security rating of the surrounding one kilometer radius."
With the search started he stepped out into the wind, shivering and quickly headed to the GAZ and started on his merry way, humming one of the songs from earlyer in the night.
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Chikuso, must have used a one-time code
Flea finishes the noodles and kills some time online before suiting up and heading out into the frigid cold air
Worn:
-Form fit armour
-Colour changing clothing
-Insulated Jacket
Gear:
Commlink broadcasting fake sin (4)
Ceramic knife in inside jacket pocket
TMP in concealable holster (inside jacket)
Gecko gloves
Heaphones
Monocle (headband)
Contact lenses
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Corkscrew smiled at the security guard from behind the wheel of his car as the gate before him opened. He pulled out onto the road and started heading for the meet.
Worn
Warm Clothing (coat, scarf, boots etc.)
Gear
Defiance EX Shocker (coat pocket)
Camouflage Suit (in the car trunk)
Fake Driver's License (4)
Fake Spellcasting License (4)
Commlink with fake SIN (4)
Contact Lenses
Manipulation Focus (tiny rotatable circular mirror on a chain around neck.)
Health Sustaining Focus (red ribbon tied around left wrist.)
Biomonitor (in car trunk)
Medkit (in car trunk)
Gas Mask (in car trunk)
-
As you enter the district where the tavern is located you notice an immediate change; the relatively quite neighborhood and suburbs are now dominated my gang signs and the drug trade, with every corner and alley doing a trade. The buildings are all ageing concrete prefab apartment blocks most windows are shattered. There are homeless people littering the streets and gangs of kids roaming around. You see a pub in passing with a bike gang pulled up harassing everyone entering and leaving. the whole area reeks with the acrid smell of the uncollected refuse. To say this area was rough was an understatement!
Surprisingly as you arrive at your destination the tavern seems in a very god condition compared to the surround area a welcome change form dilapidated concrete tower blocks covered in gang signs is this pristine brick tavern with ivy growing up the exterior. The flicker of light in the leaded window betrays the warmth of the fire raging in the hearth.
Outside the entrance to the bar are two well impeccably dressed trolls acting as security for tonight and a few people huddled together smoking together arguing about something.
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Corkscrew looked around the street and didn't see anyone he recognised, nor did he see anyone who looked like a runner. He contemplated waiting outside for someone to show up as he didn't particularly like the idea of being alone and potentially engaged in conversation by a stranger. He didn't like the look of the security trolls; Cork knew how fickle and unfair a man who's paid very little money to stand in the cold and deal with drunks could be. However, that very same cold made waiting outside a very unappealing prospect. Besides, the rest of my team might be in there already.
With a confident stride, Corkscrew moved towards the tavern. He nodded at the security and attempted to move past them to get inside.
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Lynx can't help but hang and shake his head at the atrocious sight of this poor district. *I do not live much better but at least He pulls his thick woolie down further subconsciously making sure his pointed ears are well masked, last thing he needs is some trouble on the way to a meet. He keeps the ol' Gopher at the speed limit and carefully obeys traffic laws.
The slightest smile parts his thick facial hair at the sight of a teammate already heading towards the door. Lynx pulls in and parks on the side of the building and strolls on up to meet Corkscrew with a solid pat on the shoulder and a big smile, "Good evening friend." He then turns his mechanical gaze to the trolls, "Gentlemen please excuse us. We have friends awaiting us inside."
An OOC note: Unless otherwise specified Lynx speaks in Russian.
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Cork let out a breath of relief at Lynx's approach. He figured the doormen were less likely to try to pull anything funny the more people they were dealing with, which meant Cork didn't have to worry as much about causing an incident and getting on the wrong side of the wrong people. He shot Lynx a silent glance of appreciation before turning back to the security trolls, waiting for a response.
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As he gets closer to the bar, Raróg makes note of the changes. Watches the corners and the hustle, marking out who is where and the flow of traffic, both foot and vehicular. as the surroundings roughen he thinks to himself, Good the security goes down, less trouble from the powers that be, more cove. On the other hand, the locals think they own it all. On the gripping hand, it is always a gamble even to breath.
As he pulls up to the bar he chooses to park in plain sight of the two trolls. Leaving the truck and walking towards the trolls there is a thin tusky smile on his face despite the cold. "I am meeting with a friend inside. I hope it is allowed to park here, and that you will keep an eye on my ride. Can you do that for me? Visible between thumb and finger is a plain credstick as he asks his question.
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The troll security move aside and open the door for you as you arrive responding to all forms of communication with nothing more than a grunt and lazy stare. As you enter the Tavern the difference between this place and the neighborhood becomes even more acute. The warmth hits you as soon as you walk through the door thawing you out even the most crippling chill near instantly. The decor is very upmarket with worn leather wing-back chairs surrounding the hearth, each one was probably worth more than an apartment across the street. the bar is a solid piece of mahogany and there are barrels of some form of drink stacked behind the bar.
There are a few patrons inside with drinks slumped around their tables mumbling to them selves. the barman is stood behind leaning against the wall cleaning a tankard with a rag. He is grizzled venerable ork with dark leathery skin and a large jagged tusks and a large burn scar across the left side of face leading you to his blind clouded over eye. He is wearing a waistcoats and a loose fitting cotton shirt, with a tweed jacket hung up on the bar behind him.
-
Lynx nods to the security guys as they open the doors and he quickly heads towards the warmth inside. He walks straight to the barkeep, "Vokda tonic please" then turns back to his companions, "Shall we wait for the others or head to our spot?"
*I could care less either way. It is plenty warm and there's plenty to drink.*
-
The barman stand there and just slightly raises his eyes to give you dry sarcastic stare as he says to you with his gravelly rough hewn voice
Dunna serve fancy shite like that 'ere matey...
He pauses for a moment then turns round and places the clean glass carefully on a shelf bellow the bar before leaning forward and telling you
Ya' got a choice of our finest grogs chummer; brewe'd 'ere and matur'd for yeers.
No finner grog in teese parts, if yeez ask me,
If ya dunnay like it feck yaself.
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Lynx can't help but raise an eyebrow. *A bar with no Vodka?*
"Alright old timer let me have a mug of your fine grog then. I am sure it's the best for kilometers." Lynx had been in his fair share of shitty divebars but one that only served one beverage perplexed him. *I just hope it's not the grog that keeps the gangers at bay though it could just as easily be the barkeep's winning personality.*
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The barman fills a tankard from one of the barrel behind the bar and passes it over.
On the house fella! Enjoy
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I suppose that means wine is out of the question, Cork thought to himself as he looked at the drink.
"I say we wait a little while at least. But come 9pm we should get on with it whether everyone's here or not."
I am going to assense the tavern for paranoia's sake to see if there are any awakened/cybered up people or spirits hanging around. I don't know whether mundanes can notice when someone is assensing, for example if their eyes glaze over at all. If so, Corkscrew excuses himself under the pretense of going to the bathroom and finds somewhere safe to assense from. If not, he does it right now at the bar.
5d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4358038/)
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[spoiler=sothach]
There is no 'obvious' sign that you are using astral perception other than the way you interact and observe the area. I treat it as noticing magic with a force of 0.
So not likely to be noticed(except maybe my a fellow awakened)
Assensing results:
Everyone in the bar is mundane (other than flea), most of the locals seem to be suffering from the malaise of the neighborhood but are otherwise fine.
The barkeeper is in impeccable health, especially for an old ork; he seems anxious about tonight but its not clear why.
[/spoiler]
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Flea kept the zip of her jacket down for easy access to the pistol in case any of the slotheads walking the street fancied some action. The cold night air scratched at Flea's sinuses as she lengthened her sstride, shortening the time she had to spend in this shit-tip neighbourhood.
Approaching the bar at last, flea keeps her head low as she slides between the bouncers and enters the pub.
Glancing around as she takes off her gloves and hat, she looks for the others and heads to the bar.
Hey, what's good on tap tonight? [quietly spoken] The count wants to see us
-
The barman looks at flea, as she walks in with a disapproving glare, before pouring a mug of grog and sliding over the counter toward her.
The same that good on tap ev'ry night,
Me own 'ome brew.
Grog! on the ;ouse!
When you mention the count he is taken a back and seems stunned as he looks over to your comrades, and back at you. pausing a moment to catch his wits before leaning over and hushly speaking to flea.
He's in back... I'll show you in when the fourth arrives....
sorry for staring by the way m'aam...
never much liked the land of the rising sun...
too many bad memories.
with that he returns to the bar before going to collect the empties.
-
Lynx thanks the bartender for the free beverage and turns back towards the door just in time to see Flea enter. He raises his mug to her and takes a large gulp immediately swallowing it, ensuring no matter how poor it tastes the alcohol will have a chance to take hold and warm his gut.
Waiting was never his strong suit so Lynx meanders over toward the fire and takes a good look around the place. His eyes draw back towards the solid mahogany bar, *You do not see that kind of craftsmanship around much anymore. Perhaps one day I will get one for the cabin.* He chuckles to himself and takes another large gulp of grog.
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"Charming man, that bartender." Corkscrew muttered to Flea once the barman was out of earshot. "Charming part of town, too. I only counted four groups that looked ready to mug me on the spot on my way over here. Practically paradise."
-
Watching the byplay between the bartender and Flea, Raróg does his best to hide a smile as he goes to the bar for a drink as well. "I'll have a mug of your grog as well, since it is what is on tap. And complements to the brewer. I think the count is expecting me as well as the others."
Raróg makes a note to remember this bar, the ambiance and warmth are better than the neighborhood led him to expect. Plus where else can you get a good mug of grog these days....
-
Seeing the barman's reaction to her appearance, Flea gave a neutral answer
Funnily enough, I get that a lot. Thanks for the brew, I'll let the guys know.
Flea takes a swig and nearly gags on the aftertaste, doing her best to smile at at Lynx in return but probably pulling some godawful grimace in reality.
Chikuso, it's got a kick to it! How you doing anyway? Not seen you in a while! {quietly} The contact is in the back, the barman is gonna show us through in a few minutes.
Flea nodded in recognition at cork and rarog in their respective seats, gesturing at her wrist to indicate they'd only be waiting a few more minutes.
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Lynx lets out a deep chuckle seeing Flea get chocked up by the odd beverage. "I have been well enough chummer. Have you been taking care of yourself?"
He takes another swig of the grog then leans in to respond to her hushed words, "This is good my friend. We are all here, I say we get this meeting started. I am anxious to get to work."
-
"Anxious, yes." Cork smiled, tapping his cheek just under his eye with a finger. "That seems to be going around. The barman seems to be particularly nervous tonight, best we keep our wits about us."
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Once the barman has finished clearing the empty mugs he walks over to your table and addresses politely
The count will see you now if you'd like to follow me...
He walks over to the end of the bar and opens an old rickety door then reaching to his pocket pulls out an old fashioned iron key and unlocks the door across the hall. Then standing to one side he beckons you into the dimly lit room.
As you enter the room the only light is from on the opposite wall to the door. the walls are paneled in walnut and chestnut. there is an oval antique dinning table in the center of the room with eight velvet lined chairs surrounding it. A man is sat in one of the chairs on the far side of the table. It is clear that the man is very tall and his pointed ears clearly indicate he is an elf. Another bulky man is stood over the fire poking it periodically he's dressed casually in combats clothing and an old school bomber jacket. He has an obvious pistol hanging on his hip.
The man waits for you to enter and then indicates to the barman that he can leave now.
Thank you Marvin, that will be all.
The contact waits for waits for the door to close and as you hear the heavy footsteps of Marvin heading back to the bar he leans forward onto the table with his hands crossed to address you.
I appreciate you all coming on such short notice.
If your interested I have a job for you,
should be relatively simple or at least it should be,
however I appreciate these things are never quite as they seem.
I'll be blunt I need someone to join my organisation one way or another.
Make it happen and there's 10k in it for you, 10k each that is.
If it goes well there may be some more work for you too.
If your not interested the door is right there and i thank you for your time.
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Corkscrew nodded, he knew better than to talk much in these situations, but he felt comfortable venturing a simple "Sounds good so far."
-
I'm fine, thanks Flea smiled at Lynx and tried another swig of the brew, hoping it would get better on the second sip.
It didn't.
Nodding at the barman, Flea follows the him into the backroom, impressed at how such a smart building existed amongst such shit. These guys must have serious connections to have not been looted dry in five minutes..
Taking a seat at the small table, Flea offers a slight bow to the count before settling in.
Chikuso. I hate extractions.
At 10k each, I assume that means your target won't be coming willingly? How much resistance are we to expect?
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Raróg settles into his seat as 'the Count' starts talking. All his attention is on the man talking and his body language as he speaks. As he listens, the tusky runner does his best to keep a poker face and give nothing away on his reactions. "As a starting point, you can say we are interested. You say the extraction 'should' be simple but perhaps involuntary. Given that we are hear and not out the door, a bit more info might be appropriate. What is the time frame, in other words, are we under a deadline? "
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Lynx keeps his mouth closed and a flat expression on his face during the proceedings. He nods that he is interested but until 'The Count' is more forth coming with information he does not say a word.
*Always better to see what they choose to tell you before grabbing for the info you want. Besides this is not my battlefield so for now I will let those with the proper skills handle the heaving lifting.*
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A smile starts to shows as the corners of his mouth raise when you all agree to to the job.
Well then chummers,
The job should be simple.
A very talented research doctorate has moved to the local university...
we need him to decide to quit his teaching position at the university...
...and join our company.
His research would be very beneficial to our organisation.
he has indicated he is interested in moving to our organisation.
however we believe his sponsors may not be so keen...
At this lull as he wits for your response carefully places a data chip, a cred-stick and a comm-link on the table.
Hopefully these should prove useful in your endeavour.
Once you have the target securely at the location advised on the chip call me with the comm.
It is the only comm able to reach me so try not to lose it.
He leans back in his chair and waits for your response...
[spoiler= Items obtained]As you check over the items there is:
<li>A disposable comm-link with some fancy software installed meaning it can only be used to contact one user ID</Li>
<li>A data-chip with various location files and a biography on the target</LI>
<li>A cred-stick with 2K yen spending money</li> [/spoiler]
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If he is willing to move, do we have a line of communication established with him?
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"I assume since you need our talents that the target will be under guard. Do we know their level of security? Is that on your chip?" Lynx leans back in his chair and crosses his arms.
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Our conversation was at an event last month hosted by the faculty.
I barely got a conversation out of him before his minder decided to introduce himself.
So unfortunatly no immediate lines of communication.
From what i gather there is only light security.
He has a minder on the pay of his sponser.
There may be a support team but that is a little less clear.
There is no deadline persay but i would prefer it if he was with us as soon as possible!
-
Corkscrew was sold,but of course he wasn't gonna say that. He glanced around and waited for the inevitable haggling.
-
Who is this sponsor by the way?
-
As the Count fills in a bit more data, Rarog moves the offered items over to their side of the table, passing the datachip to Flea and making sure the comlink and credstik are tucked away safely. Nodding in response to the Count's information he responds.
"So, we have an academic, possibly willing to come along willingly. Definitely with a minder and probably with a response team and security surrounding him. No direct time limit, but sooner is better. Are there any dependents that might complicate issues? Even the willing love their families. For that mater, other than general info which I am sure is on the datachip, what should we be aware of in order to make this go smoother for you? "
-
Yes the data chip contains all the information we have on the target, unfortunately we have very little further information other than what is publicly available.
We attempted to trace the sponsor funding but lost the trail at a deniable account...
... at least that's where the 'official' trail ends.
Unofficially we believe the account belongs to a local division of Saeder‑Krupp Aerospace.
He leans back in his chair and looks over to the man poking the fire before returning his gaze back onto you.
After a quiet pause the Man carefully places the poker back onto the rack beside him before sitting down at the table next to 'the count'
So is there anything else I can do for you tonight?
-
Contemplating his options for a moment along with the information offered up, Rarog counts the beeting of his pulse for a few seconds to center himself before returning his gave to the Count and the man who had been playing with the fire and nods.
"Based on what you have described, the job you ask of us is doable. The basics of an extraction and transport in and of themselves should offer no issues, though a review of the information you have provided will be needed to confirm that. What does concern me is the sponsor issue. Saeder‑Krupp is a major player and Lofwyr is known to consider attacks on his interest as an insult to him. Of course not everything SK deals in is of personal intres to him, but it is still a concern. You ask us to support you organization in activities that could bring excessive attention and for this you offer 10000 nuyen each? I would hope you could improve upon that offer?"
Rarog smiles a small smile and waits for the Count's response. If you don't ask, you never get.
-
You talk a good talk sir!
I understand your reservations,
...
I can stretch to 12k each but no more.
With this he stands up from his chair forcing it to screech as it slides over the floor.
Well then gentlemen i shall bit your adieu.
The room is yours for the night and everything is on me so enjoy.
He walks out the door swiftly followed by his guard.
-
No sign of his satisfaction crosses Rarog's face as he turns to the others once the Count and his man leave.
"Flea, we need a review on that chip. Let's see what surprises we have waiting for us. Any opinions or concerns before we review the info?"
Checking the credstik for it's balance he reports to the others, "2 thousand expense fund, workable.
-
Once the Count leaves the room Lynx leans forward and places his arms on the table, "Until we have details on the target's location I can not begin to plan an extraction. Until then I'm going to get more grog would any of you like some?"
The big man stands, heads back to the bar and returns with mugs of grog for everyone who said yes.
-
"Count me in. Tastes like shit, though it might taste better after a few more"
Flea swigged back the last of her original pint, balking at the kick.
She adjusts her trode-band slightly, itching at the patch of hair it had irritated and mentally initiated a couple of AR terminals.
She jacked the data chip in to her work 'link and dumped the varying files into her terminals for better viewing.
-
"All right, first thing is have Flea check the files, get us a summery and copies? Corkscrew can check the Astral and magical side of it while Flea works the Matrix side to see what else we might be in for. Lynx and I can get started on preliminary brainstorming once we get Flea's summery. Work for you all as a division of labor?"
While waiting for responses Rorag takes a contemplative sip of the grog.
"Actually, I kind of like it Flea. It has...texture."
-
As flea jacks the chip into her link a window pops up on the AR terminal.
The window is bland and simple a plain grey-scale box with no texturing, A plain and basic font is presented...
MENU:
1. Biography
2. Financials
3. Locations
4. Previous Contact
5. Notes
> Please select :
>
As you attempt to load up each menu all you get is series of gibberish and illegible pixilated characters.
[spoiler=OOC]The file is encrypted....
If you wish to proceed you will need to decrypt the files...
Each file is secured with TN [4] [/spoiler]
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Chikuso, they're all encrypted. Gonna jump in to save time, message me if I need to "wake up"
Flea fires up her decryption algorthym and dives into hotsim, the warmth of her home node enveloping her.
She summons her agent and sets it in "guard mode" It is constantly running analyze to detect any Bad ShitTM that arrives out of these files.
before running the decryptanalysis on the files.
decrypt file 1
decrypt 5, ewar 3, hot sim 2 file 1 (10d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4372364/)
decrypt 5, ewar 3, hot sim 2 file 1 (10d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4372364/) file 1 cracked in two passes
file 2
decrypt 5, ewar 3, hot sim 2 file 1 (10d6.hits(2)=9) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4372370/) cracked in one pass
File 3
decrypt 5, ewar 3, hot sim 2 file 1 (10d6.hits(2)=9) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4372371/) cracked in one pass (holy shit, some lucky rolls here)
File 4
decrypt 5, ewar 3, hot sim 2 (10d6.hits(2)=7) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4372373/) cracked in one pass
File 5
decrypt 5, ewar 3, hot sim 2 (10d6.hits(2)=8) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4372382/) cracked in one pass.
ok, so i think IC is broken. I just rolled that last one 20+ times and never rolled below a 7 on 10 dice!!! :S
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[spoiler=Biography]
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v231/KiiT/RP/Bearded_Man_by_DawnAllynnStock.jpg)
Name: Boris Piedsky
Age: 48
Gender: Male
Eye Color: Bluish Grey
Hair Color: Mostly Grey
Occupation: University Professor
Description:
Boris Piedsky is noted for having an odd dress sense very old fashioned even for someone of his age. He usually wears old cotton shirts with an open collar and corduroy trousers with a worn and tatty suede jacket with leather patches on the elbows. He has a straggly pepper pot beard and a rough hewn face that carries wrinkles and saggy flesh that makes him look much older than he is.
He is a professor of Para-botany at the University of Moscow; he is currently involved in some independent research on a nuclear resistance treatment. According to the University node he currently has four research assistants that have been hand selected from the best of the current PhD candidates.
His teaching schedule is relatively quiet to allow him time to devote to his research; most of his classes are for specialist courses with no more than a dozen candidates in each. Most of his teaching time is spent on his introductory course this is a 3 hour lecture series on a Wednesday morning.
More people note his as quite a strange fellow he speaks with a mild stutter and is unusually paranoid.
[/spoiler] [spoiler=Financials]
The boys in our accountancy department have been attempting to trace where the money funding his research project has come from…
Following a lengthy process they managed to identify three account numbers that have been included below.
0368 - 59226286 - 038635
0979 - 74013836 - 082854
0924 - 83430493 – 002706
Unfortunately this is where their investigations halted as no information could be established due to “Extra- territorial issues”
Fortunately my team hare not bothered or restricted by these issues and we have managed to collate the following information on these accounts.
0368 - 59226286 – 038635
This account has only been used to fund this project money come in and out the aggregate balance is always zero. The account has been set up as a trust preventing any issues with legalities and making it difficult for people to question the unusual activities.
The account is registered to a charity for helping the victims of old Chernobyl.
0979 - 74013836 - 082854
A very dodgy account clearly used in the laundering of money complex layering of funds and rather suspicious credits from unusual locations the account has no registration details at all but we have been unable to find any more details a true black book account if there ever was one. The sort of thing we ourselves have been known to use form time to time. Very difficult to setup and very time consuming.
0924 - 83430493 – 002706
We have seen this account before in some of our previous activities this is known account of a low scale Saeder Krupp operation running out of the industrial district. This particular account ahs been used recently. A trace found out that they have been purchasing a series of lab supplies. It looks like they have been setting up in an old warehouse from the delivery addresses.
[/spoiler] [spoiler=Locations]
The good professor has been seen regularly around the university but we have seen no unusual activity he returns to his local flat and there he remains he has become somewhat recluse in his personal life.
We were unable to determine any further activity without making the subject aware or our monitoring.
[/spoiler] [spoiler=Previous Contact]
I managed to discuss our interest in a quiet moment at a conference in St Petersburg last month, the professor indicated he was interested in our offer. To give him unlimited funding for his research and set him up a specialist lab within our arcology. However he indicated that he was currently contractually locked in with a competitor.
We were quickly interrupted by someone that could clearly be recognized as a minder by anyone in the business. He clearly has no choice to leave voluntarily.
[/spoiler] [spoiler=Notes]
We are currently set up to received and debrief the professor once he has been acquired.
The facility is equipped with everything to run our operation and is isolated within the arcology we will be able to remain anonymous externally.
[/spoiler]
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//to:team//<<Broke the encryption guys; slave your image links to me and I'll pipe the files in for you!>>
Flea sets the files to display on all slaved image links, rotating every 30 seconds.
Surfacing out of hot-sim into her meat body took a second, the disorientation brief.
Looks like a good snatch and grab to me.
We've got a picture of him so I vote we get eyes-on as quick as we can. What's your thoughts on trying to get in contact with him first?
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Lynx slaves his link as instructed and scans through the files as they are made available. His robotic eyes flicker as he processes the data.
"Yes, yes this is not a bad start. I agree we should get set up and eyes on target as soon as possible. However I think we must watch him closely to learn the opportunities in his routine. We must be very careful not to tip off the minders before we are able to acquire him. Also we must plan the escape route to make sure the get away is clean. If we are patient and careful this could go smoothly." He looks to each team member nodding.
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"I'm against contacting him." Corkscrew spoke up. "It's no secret that corps are ruthless bastards. If his minders learn that he's planning to jump ship, they might just decide that it's more profitable to eliminate him. I suggest we treat this as a kidnapping. If it's entirely against his will, I expect his current employers will be much less inclined to harm him."
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Ok, anyone got a car or van we can use? otherwise we'll need to boost or hire one. I've only got a bike, and I don't fancy strapping an unwilling kidnap victim to the back of that!
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"I have the ol gopher parked out back but some of you would have to ride in the bed." He lets lose a short rolling laugh, "Though we'd have to defrost you once we get there."
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Ok, that'll do nicely. Anyone got any tranq patches?
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"I am still driving my GAZ, so same problem as the Gopher. Plenty of room in the bed, but not really concealed. If we need a van, we can get one, we just need to allow time for it. No tranq patches, but i should be able to find some, I do still have a clip of those Narcoject capsules for my Ares though.
I agree that contact is a high risk. The subject's cooperation would be helpful, but the chance of betrayal or detection is very high. "
Rorag shrugs and takes another sip of grog.
"Once I go over the info I should have a better idea on points of access. Home, office, class...in route between those...called to a fake meeting. We want it quick and clean with fast access to a couple of escape routs so keep that in mind while you look."
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Narcoject is pretty nasty. That'll keep him down. We just need to get him on his own, preferably when he comes out of his house to go to work or on his way home.
We knock him out, dump him in a vehicle and drive like crazy to the RVP.
I'll start probing his university network and home node, maybe see if I can get his schedule or a commcode for his personal commlink, that way I can at least follow his whereabouts to 50m. Those four PhD students could be a good way to arrange a meeting if we wanna go down that route, but I prefer a snatch and grab from outside his house. Less security to worry about for one thing, probably less foot traffic to get in the way as well.
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"I'd expect security in any neighborhood that a science professor calls home, especially one that's 'unusually paranoid'." Corkscrew said, reading over the biography. "Might be best if we can hit him in transit, if we can get him secluded."
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"Ay in transit could work, depending on his preferred method. Either way we need to get some eyes on him as soon as possible and the learn the weaknesses in his routine." He points to Corkscrew all his fingers extended in the mage's direction, "Perhaps you could give him your unique look while we are on our way. We should get going and at least set up a good surveillance point to watch the professor."
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"Alright, sounds grand. I'm ready to leave when you are."
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Flea handed the remainder of the second pint to Rarog, I can't finish that, tastes horrible! She gagged slightly after trying to finish it, the taste just not getting any better.
I'm gonna go back and grab my bike, maybe do a quick drive through of his neighbourhood tonight to get a feel for the place, see if I can ping his home node from the street.
I'll try and get some pics as well. Anyone fancy joining me? or shall we just meet up in the morning?
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Lynx empties the last of his second pint and sets it down on the table with a thud, "Ay little Flea I will come with. We can take the Gopher if you'd prefer not to walk back. Only my mechanic friend bothers to take a second look at her." He chuckles and stands waiting for Flea or anyone else to pipe up.
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Thanks Lynx, better than a frozen walk home! We'll need to swing by my place first and pick up some gear. Flea stood up, tucking everything back into her inside pockets, zipping her jacket up and putting on her hat and gloves ready for the onslaught of winter outside.
I'll drop you guys a message when we're onsite, hopefully his place won't be too well guarded.
Nodding at lynx to signal she was good to go, Flea followed him to the door, waving her thanks at the barman before she stepped out into the icy cold night.
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"Of course, of course." He holds the door open for her then leads the way out back to old Gopher. Lynx fires up the truck and heads off as Flea directs.
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As you all start heading out of the pub, the bar has started to increase in popularity, dramatically so in fact. the place has become packed with locals. It almost knocks you back that you couldn't hear the ruckus of the bar from the back room as the barrage of the locals frivolity hits you immediately.
The regular bar staff has now arrived; a couple of local hotties not wearing much (probably the reason for the locals piling in and packing the place so tightly) and as you all walk out 'Marvin' the barman nods to all as you leave and extend a sort of strange open invitation to return.
Have a good one fellas, you really SHOULD come back some time.
After all I could tell you a story or two, even a few about the good count there
He retuns his attention to the locals and developing his local clientele.
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Flea tries to be quick as she grabs a spare clip, her blade and her electronics. The sensor and camera would hopefully come in handy too she thought as she slotted them into her satchel bag along with her helmet and gecko kit. She grabbed a couple bags of beef flavour soysnacks and a couple soycafs from the percolator and headed back downstairs to the van.here, these are for you. Might be a long night! Let's go
Flea tucked into the snacks and sipped at the coffee as the streets rolled by, keeping an eye on gridguide for the distance to their destination.
you know this part of town lynx?
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"I know the area, yes. If memory serves the professor's neighborhood is a step above the surrounding area. Security will be tight. I'm talking SIN scanning, armed guard tight. If we can come up with cover to get past the guards we may have a small window to plant some devices. I should be able to estimate a time once I get a look at how many boots they have on the ground." Lynx keeps his eyes on the road and carefully guides the old truck towards their target.
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Chikuso. Lets just have a look from a distance before approaching the guards, I might be better off going over the wall. Less conspicuous than taking the van in I guess
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Corkscrew contemplated heading home once more and letting the others do all the work, but he couldn't quite manage to make himself seem that useless. He turned to Rorag and said, "I'll head over to this university, see if there aren't any malicious entities hanging around. Plenty of room in my car, so you're welcome to tag along if you have nothing better to do or if you're worried about me blowing our cover."
With as polite a nod as he could manage to the bartender, Cork exited the tavern and headed over to his car.
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@Lumen & Csjarrat:
As you approach the professors housing the district you can see the housing steadily increasing n quality until you find the border a reinforced concrete wall with check-posts placed sporadically along the wall. The premises near the wall are still pretty bad but at least they are still in one piece and have hot running water. The gangs are slightly more polite and don;t harass everyone in their eye line just those that are in the way.
As you approach an entry checkpoint there is a simple gate with a security booth, a man sat inside the booth and two men patrolling the gate.
[spoiler=rolls required]
Perception roll
Knowledge skill(s) related to security procedure[/spoiler]
One of the guards approaches you as you arrive and taps on the window of the truck and says
Excuse me sir!
We just need to check your registration details
Can you please provide your SIN now.
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perception: int 3, percep 3, vision/audio enhance 3 (9d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382757/)
security knowledge test: defaulting on log 2 (2d6.hits(5)=1) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382758/)
broadcasting R4 fake sin now
Flea switches her SiN to "broadcast mode", smiling as she becomes Kyoko Saito.
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Perception 4 + Intuition 5 + Enhancements 3 = 12
12d6.hits(5)=4 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382770/)
I'm not sure which knowledge if either is applicable so I'll roll both.
Knowledge Military 2 + Logic 3 = 5
5d6.hits(5)=3 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382777/)
Combat Tactics 2 + Intuition 5 = 7
7d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382778/)
Lynx rolls down the window of the truck and gives the guard a smile, "Yes yes of course of course. I hope you boys are keeping warm out here." He offers his SIN to be scanned.
Currently running fake SIN Rating 4 - Vladimir Vitsin.
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[spoiler= Perception results]
You both notice that both the guards on patrol have SMG's readied in a concealed position on a sling and lanyard beneath their armored jackets.
There are discreet camera on the booth that are directly logging all the drivers as they come through in conjunction of the obvious cameras on over watch of the checkpoint.
The guards actions are sluggish and the guy in the booth already looks half asleep.[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Lumen - Knowedge results] From what you have seen you can easily surmise that your going to be getting asked a few questions before the gate will be opened. This is a light checkpoint and you'd be able to overrun it easily if required but doing so without being noticed would be a challenge. The men on the gate will be low level grunts and they should be easy to convince of almost any story with the right persuasion, given the time of day its more than likely they are nearing the end of their shift which can only serve to help you at this point. [/spoiler]
Just let me run these for you.
Wait here one moment.
The guard goes over to the booth and walks in having to nudge the guard inside to prompt him to check the SIN's
[spoiler=check against SIN]
Fleas's SIN vs R3 scanner:
3d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382900/)
4d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382902/)
Lynx's SIN v R3 Scanner:
3d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382905/)
4d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4382904/)
[/spoiler]
The guard comes back over to you and hands back your SIN's
These all check out,
Do mind if a ask what the purpose of your visit is here today Mr Vitsin?
...
After all it is quite late and our records don't have you down as a resident. or on any visitor logs.
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Lynx sighs and lightly punches the steering wheel, "Damn it Sergei! My apologies sir my friend, his mind is not what it used to be. He must have forgotten to put me on the list..."
He fiddles through his pocket for a moment before producing a cred stick. Handing it to the guard he smiles, "Perhaps you would be so kind as to check again."
50 nuyen on the cred stick. We'll see how he feels about that lol.
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Sergei, Sergei when will he learn...
You known protocol says i should turn you away...
He carefully take the stick from you and examines while humming and ahhhing
Hey what do i care... you two seem a cute couple after all.
Go on through and have a good evening.
Send my best to Sergei by the way.
He walks over to the other guard and they open the gates together then wave you through.
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Lynx smiles wide and waves as the gate moves, "Thank you my friends! Have a pleasant evening!"
He pulls the truck into the neighborhood and turns to Flea, "Not too hard and all for the price of a decent bottle of vodka. Now how close must we be for you to work?"
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Flea flashed Lynx a smile
Nice touch hotshot!, just do a nice slow pass within 100m of his address, I'll see if I can pick up his home node.
Flea slaves her radio signal scanner output to her image link, picking up all the broadcasting devices' locations nearby.
Willing an AR terminal into being, she opens up her scan software, kicking it into gear for detecting hidden nodes.
Ewar test to pick up hidden nodes: extended test threshold 15 for all hidden nodes in range.
ewar 3, scan 6 (9d6.hits(5)=5) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4383526/)
ewar 3, scan 6 (8d6.hits(5)=5) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4383528/)
ewar 3, scan 6 (7d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4383529/)
ewar 3, scan 6 (6d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4383530/) threshold hit in 4 combat turns/12 seconds.
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@csjarrat:
As you scan for nodes your AR display is populated with a mass of ARO's...
Most of them are your standard SINner's and the like you would expect for this sort of area.
you mange to pick up the hidden nodes of the merc guards also... it would seem that their links are tied into a central net that supports the entire neighborhood.
You easily pick up the proffessors CHN and also find an associated hidden node.
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"Got it, and something a little more interesting too!" I'm gonna see if I can get some access"
The hidden node grabbed Flea's attention most, usually the important stuff was kept off the grid in a hidden mode.
Flea loads up an AR terminal and boots her hacking suite
first we'll analyze the newly discovered hidden node:
analyze (9d6.hits(5)=4) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4389386/)
if its interesting, flea will hack it, if not, she'll hack the home node (going for security access, +3 to threshold)
hack on the fly:
hacking 6, spec 2, optimization 1, exploit 5 (14d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4389372/)
hacking 6, spec 2, optimization 1, exploit 5 (14d6.hits(5)=5) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4389373/)
hacking 6, spec 2, optimization 1, exploit 5 (14d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4389374/)
that's enough to hit a threshold of 11, which covers upto firewall 6 + security access +3 = 9
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As you scan the node it resists your attempts to gain information actively shifting into the background data streams:
[spoiler=Opposed roll]Opposed test on matrix perception:
9d6.hits(5)=1 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4389399/)[/spoiler]
Despite the nodes best efforts your analyse program easily manages to gather information on the hidden node, with a new ARO appearing with the results over the morphing icon of the hidden node.
>Data analysis in progress....Please wait.
>
> Analysis results:
> Unknown node is currently in hidden and has has no current active alert status.
> Node is currently slaved to local CHN with access ID [15435.86476.76476]
> No further data is available due to encryption currently in place on the Hidden Node.
As you attempt to log in to the hidden node you are immediately redirected to the CHN due to the slaved connection there is no notable security in place on the CHN and it has a stock environment loaded with plain icons showing.
As you lock onto the gateway to the hidden node you meet your first attempt to resist your access.
[spoiler=Opposed checks against your hacking]
Firewall rating 5 so you get security after 2 attempts and still go unoticed.
5d6.hits(5)=1, 5d6.hits(5)=4 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4389413/)
If you had kept going the third resist...
5d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4389419/)
[/spoiler]
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Corkscrew pulled up outside the university. Alright, let's take a look.
(If he can assense the area well enough from his car he will, otherwise he will attempt to get inside the campus grounds and look around.)
[spoiler=Assensing roll]Assensing 5d6.hits(5)=0 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4390423/)
Great... If I can wait around and make another one I will, if not, ignore the following roll.
Assensing 5d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4390425/)
[/spoiler]
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As you shift your perception to peer into the misted veil of astral space you are presented with the vast shadow of the campus around you with the vibrant auras of the trees and shrubbery of the local flora and fauna. The building that is initiated as where the professor has been carrying out his work has some form of astral being patrolling in a regimented and autonomous manner.
The very texture of the astral space is slowly warping in an unnatural manner in the area and a felling of malaise starts to fill you.
[spoiler=Assensing results]
Most of the areas are completely mundane but the building where the professor works is covered in awakened ivy and is being patrolled by a watcher spirit, there is a background count in the area of the building of 1.[/spoiler]
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"Lynx, I'm in"
Flea took a second to get her bearings, taking a good look around the node and at all the "plain" icons.
matrix perception (9d6.hits(5)=5) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4390502/) analyzing the CHN for its contents: "plain icons"
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"Excellent my friend... excellent." Lynx keeps his eyes scanning around making sure no one was paying too much attention to them. He records the footage from his eyes for later review and he endeavors to get a clear view of the Professor's house as they drive by.
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[spoiler=@ Lumen]Perception check please[/spoiler]
[spoiler=@ Csjarrat]Your analysis of the icons reveals nothing of any particular interest they are just a series of subroutines to automate the household chores to activate the cleaning drones etc... and order food automatically.
The last used dates indicate the apartment is still being used actively.
you do find a schedule of sorts loaded in one of the smaller icons that gives you his dairy for the coming weeks including a full schedule of classes and maps round the university to get to those classes. There is also an invitation to a dinner with some executives to discuss progress with the research he is working on. [/spoiler]
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Flea copies the data to a secure encrypted folder on her commlink and sets to work on the hidden node.
decryptanalysis (edged) (10d6.hitsopen(5,6)=5) 1st shot, used edge.
decrypt now runs autonomously:
[url=http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4391334/]decryptanalysis (5d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4391333/)
decryptanalysis (4d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4391335/)
decryptanalysis (3d6.hits(5)=1) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4391336/)
thats 10, enough to beat a encryption rating of 5. let me know if you need the last few rolls.
"How we looking lynx? I've got us a schedule, maps and teaching plan. Looks like we're in business! I'm just attacking that hidden node now."
The glow of the AR interface casted a warm orange glow across her pale asian features, highlighting the edges of her excited and triumphant smile
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Perception 4 + Intuition 5 + Enhancements 3 = 12
12d6.hits(5)=5 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4391382/)
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[spoiler=@Lumen]
Perception results
as you watch the area for evidence of being watched or at the least being noticed you don't see many people round at all most people are asleep at this time there are just a few people out for a late night run and the occasional merc patrol that glances over at the truck that's little of place but don;t stop or pay much attention...
As you go past the apartment you pick up a twitch in the corner of your eye that peaks your interest and notice that in an apartment across the street there is ongoing surveillance of the professors apartment and they are logging everything and take particular interest in you as you drive by. as you go round you see there is full surveillance cover of the building and spot at least one camera and parabolic microphone.[/spoiler]
[spoiler=@Csjarratt]You manage to decrypt the files on the hidden node:
From the data enclosed you can identify that this is the Professors personal link and it has a lot of data regarding his research at the university.
looking over the data most of it makes no sense to you it's all a whole load of scientific gibberish, but the odd word perks your interest.. such as irradiation. genetics and toxicity.
There is also some more information about his personal interest in leaving his current employers, including what he has managed to gather about the surveillance of him.
It looks to be some sort of diary and log of activity over the course of his research a sort of note pad with a collections of thoughts, it's difficult to follow as its is very jumbled up in it construction lacking any sort of order or chronology to identify where or when he wrote the information, but it would seem to indicate that at the start of the project he had a lot more freedom and over time they handlers started to crowd him more and more leading to him being disenfranchised with his current sponsors, he arranged for the event where he contacted the 'Johnson' since then the surveillance of him has been stepped up more and more and he can barely move now without it being seen somehow.
By his estimation he has two live tails at any one time and this apartment is being watched from three places providing total coverage. the only place he thinks he has any sort of privacy is the university but he is paranoid that he is being monitored using the university security cameras and the handlers are still near by.[/spoiler]
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Lynx decides to send Flea a message so eaves aren't dropped on their conversation, <We're looking just fine my friend but I've got a visual on the surveillance team. Confirmation on at least one camera and one microphone. Let's try to wrap this up.>
His mechanical eyes constrict as he commands them to zoom on the apartment across from the Professor's, flipping on the low light filter.
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Corkscrew kept on driving, unwilling to risk drawing too much attention to himself. He activated his commlink and contacted the others.
<I think I'm done here. Do you want me to come by the second location?>
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Flea copies the commlink's data into another secure encrypted folder on her own. It'd at least make for interesting bed time reading tonight.
//<<@LynX>>Shit! I'm all done. I think he's home. The hidden node is his personal commlink, lets get out of the nieghbourhood and we can talk through the next steps. In fact, Head to O'malleys, We can talk over something less shit than that last beer.//
Seeing the incoming message from Corkscrew, she mentally hashed out a quick reply.
//All done here, lots to tell you. Meet at O'malleys (irish bar, downtown) in 30-40 mins?//
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Quick_Reply: Flea <You got it we're gone.>
Lynx turns the truck back towards the exit and approaches the gate, hoping to see different faces then they passed on the way in.
To Corkscrew and Team: <Negative. Flea just finished her preliminary sweep and we're on our way out. I say we meet in the morning to discuss our findings. That should hopefully be enough time to process what we have.>
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//yeah, ok, my place about 8.30 am. I'll do us some breakfast.//
-
As the blackness of night draws in around you a brisk northerly wind starts to bring with it a light flurry of snow. The journey back to your homes is particularly cold and harsh.
When morning dawn the sun is beating down with its full radiance shining brightly on the fresh snow fall covering the streets.
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Lynx woke up at 0500 like he had for nearly thirty years now, ever since he began his time in the military. As normal his first hour is spent exercising, mild calisthenics, push ups, sit ups, etc. After that he puts on a pot of the cheap excuse for soycaf he had then takes a quick shower. Then it's time for 'breakfast' some warm barely edible soy noodles, it wasn't much but it will fight off the hunger for now.
While he's getting dressed and armored up Lynx runs the diagnostic routines making sure his ware is performing within normal parameters. The rest of his morning before leaving is spent cleaning and checking his weapons. As he's walking out the door he sends a message to the team, <Good morning squad. Flea I'm en route to your 20. If anyone is in need of a ride sound off.>
===Armor===
Armor Jacket
+Insulation 2
+Concealable Holster - Ares Predator
+Concealable Holster - Ares Predator
Form-Fitting Half-Body Suit
SecureTech Shin Guards
===Weapons===
AK-97 - Stashed in the Gopher
Ares Predator IV - see above
Both pistols loaded with SNS
Spare clip for each with regular ammo
===Other===
Biomonitor
Datachip x5
Earbuds Rating 2
+Audio Enhancement Rating 3
+Spatial Recognizer
Fake License (Wired Reflexes) Rating 4
Fake License (Ares Predator IV) Rating 4
Fake SIN (Vladimir Vitsin) Rating 4
Medkit Rating 6
Medkit Supplies x3
Plastic Restraints x10
Smart Pouch System, Ammunition Pouch x2
Smart Pouch System, Combat Load Vest
Stimulant Patch Rating 5 x2
Trauma Patch x2
Transys Avalon (3, 3, 3, 4)
+Iris Orb
+Subvocal Microphone
+AR Gloves
-
//Sir, yes sir! bacon is cooking so get a move on :-)//
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Corkscrew rolled out of bed, into the shower and through his morning routine with all the enthusiasm of a lazy man who hated mornings. At least there's breakfast to look forward to, Corkscrew thought, heading out to the car and setting off for Flea's place. He arrived around 8:20, with the intention of helping to cook. He had grown to hate the artificiality of typical food, and so had brought over a few ingredients to help spice things up.
(Cork is gonna offer to help cook, if Flea agrees my roll is as follows.)
Cooking Knowledge Skill: 5d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4392901/)
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Lynx arrives and knocks on Flea's door at exactly 0830. When the door opens he gives the young woman a smile and steps inside, "Good morning my friends. I trust you slept well. Shall we wait until after breakfast to get started? "
-
Flea buzzed the intercom to let Lynx in //Just in time! hope you're hungry!//
Corkscrew had sorted the eggs and some fancy accompaniments and Flea had done the bacon and the eggy bread. Flea's part wasn't anything fancy, but it'd set them up for the day. Corkscrew's little touch of magic certainly looked interesting though.
Flea poured out a few mugs of soycaf and dumped the documents onto the AR wallpaper for all to see.
Corkscrew, we had quite the haul last night. I cracked his comm and his home node which we'll need to look through today. {she takes a big glug of coffee as she works through a chewy slab of bacon} Lynx, you wanna give us the low-down on what you saw of his home security?
-
"Certainly I can start us off." Lynx takes a sip from the mug before moving to stand in front of the AR display on the wall, "May I?" ((OOC: Assuming Flea let's him have some control over the display)) His cybereyes flicker, he makes a few hand gestures and images appear on the wall. "From what we observed last night the Professor's personal home security is mostly irrelevant. However there are two main causes for concern if we were to engage the target at his home. The first is the neighborhood security." Several files pop up on the wall for display; a short video of the truck pulling up to the main gate, snap shots of the guards, their weapons, and the cameras posted. As he speaks the appropriate file enlarges beside him then shrink off to the side once he moves on.
"A large wall surrounds the neighborhood with manned post at the gates. There are several confirmed cameras, one directly capturing each driver and passenger. Most likely there are at least two guards at the gate at all times. The guards appeared to be sporting armored jackets and armed with SMGs. A SIN scan is required before entering so there will be a trace along with visual verification. This is not good."
More pictures pop up of the apartment across from the Professor's and the surveillance equipment, "The second point of concern is a stake out directly across from the Professor's home. One camera and one parabolic microphone confirmed. There is most likely more equipment either inside or hidden around and if it were my operation there would be at least two men stationed there as well. Based on this information I must highly suggest against an acquisition at the home."
He moves back to sit at the table and takes another sip from his soykaf. "I believe it is your turn now Flea." Lynx tears into the plate of food quickly and methodically in just a few moments the plate is clean.
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mmhmm, yep Flea wipes a dab of ketchup away from her lips and slips on her 'trode band, spinning on the breakfast stool to face the AR wallpaper.
Lynx got us pretty close last night, close enough for me to find the good professor's home node and personal 'link. I punched through the security and trawled his node for useful stuff. Here's what we got..
flea gestures as she mentally controls the display of the different documents, expanding the teaching plan for the team first.
We've got an idea of his movements relating to work schedules, meetings with superiors and such. I also managed to get a copy of his research, doesn't mean a huge amount to me, but it might to you, so feel free to take a copy for bedtime reading. Most interesting of all for our side of our deal is his paranoia around his minders, take a look for yourselves {flea dumps the jumbled diary entries onto the display} I'm not sure of this guy's mental state to be honest. He seems a bit.."scatty" for a professor. He seems paranoid, though obviously it's justified in this case as we've seen his tails, but I think we need to take this into account. So he doesn't flip out when we snatch him, I think we need to knock him out. He'll be less trouble that way. Thoughts?
Flea switches the second wall to the displays of the maps she retrieved next to his teaching times, and plotting his daily routine over the map in her editing program.
This is likely to be his daily movements. Corkscrew, from what you saw, do any of these movements line up with a decent snatch n grab opportunity?
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"Hmmm." Corkscrew thought for a moment. "If we had more manpower I would suggest taking him while he's driving back from work. As it stands with those tails, however, that would be a difficult business for just the three of us."
Corkscrew poured over the maps. "If he's nervous about his employers, then we could use their presence against him." He pointed at the parking lot (or equivalent if there isn't one). "If we can scare him, get him to run from his handlers, he could run for his car here. The panic should make the handlers and tails break cover, in which case it would be easier for us to ambush them when they followed him down there. I'm sure we all have multiple ways to create a panic like that."
Cork smiled and shrugged, "Of course there is a lot of room for things not going quite as planned. Regardless, astral security seemed only to be in the professor's building. Whatever plan we decide to go with, I would recommend taking him before he enters that building. There's bound to be extra mundane security in there too."
Plus I don't like seeing the word 'toxic' in these reports.
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"Flea can you pull up maps of the two subway terminals closest to the professor's home and the university? I am thinking grabbing him in the bustle of the subway will be a much subtler and quieter way. If we can break line of sight between the target and his handlers then stash him long enough for them to move on thinking he got on the train. I'd rather try and keep things quiet than provoking the handlers from blowing cover. When cover is blown trigger fingers get itchy, I'd prefer not to get shot... again..."
Lynx sips off his mug and looks to his teammates, "Just my thoughts."
-
Flea opens up her GPS program, showing the public transport overlay alongside the city map.
@GM, was going to roll for a data search, but figured this would be publicly available information, let me know if you want a roll though.
Looks like there are a few options here. I think a snatch in transit is a good option.
-
As you open up the GPS and check the public transport options a full overlay comes up on a topographical map that moves effortlessly with the movement of you hand on the AR display.
To identify the accurate route the professor uses and exact times a simple data search is required [Threshold 1]
-
9d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4399731/) 2 hits
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Checking on the times and his movements and collating the connections to professors notes you establish his usual route.
He has a short walk from his apartment to a local subway station he then gets off to walk through the park to change lines and take the surface tram to the university.
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The tram stop or the park look like good spots, probably the tram is better as there's less distance to haul his ass to the car
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"Agreed. Either will work I am thinking. Perhaps we should go investigate the tram station and scout possible locations to engage the target as well as multiple exit strategies. Discretion and speed will be vital especially if the plan is to carry around an unconscious man around in broad daylight."
-
Yep, I think we should have someone in the van nearby, engine on and ready to go. I'll take the bike, whoever isn't driving the van rides pillion with me. When we spot the target at the tram stop we get on the comms, the pillion passenger hops off + does the hit as the van gets into position.
We load him into the van, passenger jumps in the van and then the bike and van break in separate directions to force any tails to split their efforts. If we're slick, we could be away and done in 30 seconds. Thoughts?
-
"Only one question... where is this van?" Lynx perks an eyebrow .
*Surely she does not mean my truck...*
-
we either use the vehicles we've got or rent something, or we can boost something; but that exposes us a lot more
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"I think it would be best if we acquire a vehicle. Unless I'm mistaken I will probably be the one subduing the target, therefore I can not drive as well. No offense meant but I do not think anyone else can keep my old junker longer than ten minutes. " Lynx lets loose a chuckle.
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[colour=red]Right, we gonna boost one? get a second hander, or rent one?[/color]
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"I have a friend who usually works on the ol Gopher for me that may have a vehicle we can rent. If you would like I can contact him and ask. I would prefer not to steel a vehicle before a job, it adds another layer of things to go wrong." Lynx strokes his bushy beard as he speaks.
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"Renting sounds good to me, but how much is it gonna run us?"
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"Standby, I will inquire if we even has something available."
Lynx's eyes flicker with activity as he mentally sends a text message to Leonid, <Good morning my friend. I was wondering if you had a courier van I could rent for a few hours. I don't need anything special but one in good working order is preferred. Thanks.>
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Its a few minutes before Leonid gets back to you. as your link buzzes as he calls you up.
Hello friend,
Good timing i must say as i was just about to mark the LT-21 ready for return but i'm sure i can let you borrow it for a while.
Just make sure it comes back in one piece or your paying the repair bill.
Come by after office hours and you can pick it up.
The Lt-21 is an equivalent model the the Hermes delivery van out of arsenal
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<Excellent. Thank you sir I will be there.>
Lynx smiles reading the response. "Good news friends! He's got a LT-21 we can borrow, just need to swing by his shop after hours. In the meantime I suggest we scout out the extraction point. The more we know about it now the better prepared we will be if the shit hits the fan later."
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Good thinking..
Shall we do a "dry run"? take the bike in close, two up and one walk out the route he's likely to take?
Flea finishes up with the breakfast, wiping the last of the sauce away from the corner of her mouth and clears up the plates and empty mugs off the table.
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"Yes exactly, we should do this. We need to be on the lookout for ways to break visual contact between the target and his handlers. Quick access top side is a bonus."
Lynx leans back and strokes his beard, "What are our surveillance options?"
-
I've got cameras and microphones, plus the sensors on the bike. We can always beg/steal/borrow what we don't have already
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@ Lumen
As the day brightens and your fabulous breakfast settles the plan starts to come together your commlink vibrates as a message comes in,
ook dude I know I said after work and i;m sure you've got other plans but I need you to get down here fast some geeza has come early to collect the van and I can' t distract him for long,
So hurry your a$$ up.
@ Scawire
The cold air is almost painful in your lungs as you leave your crummy flat,
The job you picked up the night would barely be qualified as a milk run but with no-one talking to you there wasn't much else out there.
The guy needed you to pick up a van from some mechanic before it got sent back to company.
Simple enough too easy really. But the money was alright so hell why not right?
As you approached the mechanic he starts to give you the works,
Whoa dude,
No way I can release that vehicle now the shocks still need aligning,
Not to mention the caliper hoods haven;t been cleaned....
... I mean to release it now....
... I can't do that man it's just not safe.
Do you want me to lose my job.
Just get outta here...
..I said i'd call when it''s ready so get lost!
Just as he's about to start literally screaming the rest of the shop has just downed tool and start to stare at you, he starts to walk away and plays with his comm.
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Ice Tiger stands there wondering what is this guys problem, I was told to come and get this van and now this guy is playing some kind of stall game with me. Ice Tiger takes a look around trying to size up the rest of the employees not sure if this is going to go south in a bad way. At least I'm packing my black scorpion if this goes south I still don't like people knowing I got some mana up my sleeve if I don't have to play that card. Ice Tiger decides to wait and see where this stall game is going before he decides his next move. Ice Tiger adjusts his shades he is wearing more to hide his silver eyes then anything else.
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Lynx stands and slams a fist on the table, "Shit, plan has changed. If we want the van for later we must go now. Quickly follow me the dishes will have to wait."
He heads out to parking lot and fires up the old truck.
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flea slings on her jacket and shoves a pistol into the holster, grabbing her comm off the table on the way.
Taking the steps down to street level two at a time she tries to keep up with lynx.
Why the change of plan then?
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"Someone is trying to claim it early. Sounds fishy but if we do not hurry we will loose our ride." Once they are both in the truck Lynx fires up the engine and heads for Leonid's garage.
He mentally responds to the message from Leonid, <En route to your 20. Thanks for the heads up. >
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Ice Tiger doesn't want to miss out on the money coming his way so he again asks about the van. So whats the problem I was told to pick up the van. Ice Tiger keeps his eyes looking around the shop to make sure no one has turned into a threat to his personal safety.
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@ Scawire
The guy is shuffling nervously as the other guys start sniggering to them selves across the garage. Eventually he speaks to you again in a somewhat calmer tone.
Look mate i'm sorry about this
There's clearly been a mix up,
Just give me a few moments i'll check the records in the office,
You can take a seat in the waiting room over there.
He points to series of plastic chairs in the corner of the garage an a damaged soy-vend that clearly hasn't worked in years.
He's sat in the office for about 10 minutes and the other mechanic get back to their work.
[spoiler=Lumen]you get a response form Leonid after a few minutes:
I think I've got him well stalled for now but don't think i can get rid of him without you man.
Its not far now until you get to the garage only a few minutes away
[/spoiler]
Eventually he comes back clutching some paper in his oily hands.
Ah yes I think I know whats gone wrong here,
It looks like someone marked the work date as the collection date.
I can do you a deal if your prepared to wait an hour or so I can get it fixed ready for release.
How does that sound.
Can I get you to roll judge intentions please....
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Ice Tiger looks around again. No one is trying to kill me that is good.
Judge Intent 7
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4407329/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4407329/) 3 hits
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[spoiler=Judge Intentions Results]
You clearly sense he's nervous, he's concealing the truth. [/spoiler]
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Ice Tiger notices something is up. I said I was here to get the van now why are you telling me stories and giving me the run around. There is something your not telling me and Think it would be best if you just came clean with me. Ice Tiger thought this simple pick up of a van would be a nice cake walk of a job but this mechanic seems to have other ideas and Ice Tiger doesn't like the scent this situation is giving off. Best to get to the truth and fast I don't want to be blind sided by what ever this guy is keeping hidden. I'll blind side him with this mana.... I don't like casting when I don't have to but I hate getting jumped or geeked more. With that Ice Tigers fingers twitch ever so slightly as he drops a low level Influence spell on the stalling mechanic.
Influence F3 (YOU WANT TO TELL THE TRUTH)
Drain (F/2)+1 = 2
Casting
Spellcasting (Manipulation) 6 ( 8 ) + Magic 5 + Power Focus 4 = 17
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4407407/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4407407/) 4 hits
Drain
Willpower 5 + Logic 6 ( 8 ) + 13
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4407408/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4407408/) 6 hits no drain
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<Just a few more minutes Leonid, I'm almost there. >
Lynx pushes down the accelerator, speeding up to several km/h over the posted limits.
-
@ Scawaire
The mechanic physically shakes his and wobbles as he tries to resist but his efforts are ultimately futile.
Look man, i don;t know you, you just say your here for the van when I haven't even marked it for release yet,
was hoping to save it for a few days before so I could make a bit on the side letting this dude I know borrow it.
But your still not the guy i was expecting so what the frak are you doing here trying to get this van from me eh....
@Lumen
The roads are bumps and rough as the area is not as well maintained as most.
You know the garage is just round the corner, one a few more seconds, hope fully the van will still be there.
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Ice Tiger keeps himself from smiling after getting the truth out of the mechanic... well maybe just some of the truth. Well I was given a job and that job was to pick up the van. You knew it was going to be picked up, and you should also know it is not always the same guy that picks this stuff up. Today it is me. Ice Tigers mind starts to think what this guy was going to use the van for on the side. .....HUMMM....
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Lynx turns to look at Flea seconds before hitting the brakes to pull into the parking lot, "I hope you can drive the van." As soon as tthey're on the lot he keeps his eyes peeled for the LT-21.
Perception 4 + Intuition 5 + Enhancements 3 + Actively Looking 3 = 15
15d6.hits (5)=6 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4407580/)
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As the old truck screams round the corner and screeches as the brakes are applied, and you enter the parking lot.
You both clearly see the van and two men talking over some paper work.
[spoiler=Lumen]You recognize one of the men as Leonid straight away.
Perception results:
You clearly see the van, but also in the corner of your eye you catch sight of one of the mechanics clutching a pipe wrench ready to use it as a weapon.
Down the street there is a car parked up with two men clearly watching the garage. [/spoiler]
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yeah, I can handle it
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Ice Tiger notices that a truck has just arrived. Well this could be bad, best to keep myself ready. Ice Tiger tries to position himself so he doesn't get blind sided from anyone around him.
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Lynx pulls in an parks the truck in an empty spot and sends Flea a message, <Something is very wrong here. Did you notice the car down the street? Stay frosty little one, this could get ugly. If things get too bad there's an AK-97 up under the driver' seat but be careful it's live ammo.>
He cracks his neck side to side then steps out of the truck, flicking up the collar of his jacket. He maneuvers towards the van and Leonid while trying to block line of sight for the two guys in the car down the street. "Is there a problem here gentlemen?"
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Ice Tiger looks over at the Elf coming his way. No, I'm just trying to pick up the van I was sent to get. Ice Tiger starts to get a big nervous with a truck pulling up and some elf starting to get involved with his should be easy job to get a van. This should have been easy. I guess I should have pushed this mechanic for the keys not the truth. One mistake lets not make another one. Ice Tiger doesn't like how someone else is now here talking to him. He was already out numbered by all the workers best to get a read on all these guys. Ice Tiger figures this Elf would be more of a muscle then the normal everyday workers on site best if he reads him first.
Ice Tiger switches his eyes to astral to see what kind of personal are stepping up on his "should be easy" run.
Assensing (Lynx)
Assensing 1 +INT 4 = 5
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4408330/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4408330/) 1 hit
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[spoiler=Scawire]As you shift your perception to the swirling vortex of astral space and examine the aura of the man approaching you are able to ascertain that he is a healthy and mundane, he seems somewhat worried and agitated. [/spoiler]
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Lynx perks an eyebrow and points to the van, "This van? You were sent to pick up that van? I believe we have a misunderstanding here my friend. Whoever sent you is mistaken, perhaps if you give me his com-code I can speak with him and sort this matter out." His smile says he's just trying to help but the gleam on his cold mechanical eyes say you picked the wrong job pal. While trying to sort this out Lynx is keeping one eye discretely out for the goons in the car.
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Ice Tiger gets a feeling this guy might be the one invested in a side job for the van. My boss is Comm Code is not in this piece of junk comm link I got. Ice Tiger decides to take a shot. My schedule is not needing me to get the van right this very instance, and what I hear is he has a side job he wants to use the van on. Ice Tiger points his thumb over at the Mechanic that spilled the beans with a push from some mana. So Since I'm not in a major hurry and you guys have a side deal going if you could slot me some nuyen I could let the van slide for a very short period of time.
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Sensing the imminent stand off, Flea kept the truck's engine running but hopped out of the cab, standing squarely beside Lynx.
She eyed the guys in the car and took a good look around the place, trying to get a sense of what they might be up against.
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Ice Tiger notices a girl get out of the truck and gives her a quick look over with his astral eyes. Not great at spotting things in astral Ice Tiger is going to spend the rest of his talk with these guys continuously astrally checking them out.
Assensing Flea
Assensing 1 INT 4 = 5
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4409033/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4409033/) 1 hits oh too bad.
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@Scawire:
While you continue the conversation and continue ti examine the swirling auras in the mists of the astral plane:
[spoiler=Assesning rolls:]5d6.hits(5)=2, 5d6.hits(5)=4, 5d6.hits(5)=1, 5d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4410084/)
Roll 1 - Lynx
As before but now you can see all basic cyber-ware
Roll 2- Flea
You notice that Flea is healthy individual with some adept talent, magic 4 and essence 6.
Roll 3 & 4 not needed. [/spoiler]
@Csjarrat
There are two mechanics in the back talking among themselves and watching the conversation, the two men in the car just seem to be watching what is going on for now and aren't taking any other actions.
Perception test please to get anything more
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int 3, percep 3, enhancements 3 (9d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4410214/) perception (2 hits)
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[spoiler=Perception Results]You notice that one of the mechanics is clutching a tool of some kind and is ready to use it as weapon if necessary.[/spoiler]
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*whispered*Lynx, we got a plan? Looks like they're set up for a brawl here...
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Lynx mumbles into his subvocal mic, "Not at all... win?"
The large man sticks his chest out and perks an eyebrow, "I see you are clearly confused my friend. This van..." he points "...is mine. Your van is not ready yet. However if it is work you need, perhaps we could talk elsewhere."
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Ice Tiger takes a brief second to think then decides that these two seem to be muscled up with cyberware and magic, they might be able to get him into the shadows where he wants to go. Thing is he was still hired for a job maybe he can still pull both off with out too much trouble.... well maybe ... maybe not lets see. As I said I'm not in a major hurry to get the van and the mechanic said that it was going to be used on a side job. I'm fine with a side job taking place, but being short of nuyen I need some compensation if it is a side job I could join or a bit of nuyen to fill my belt straight up both seem fine, since both get me some nuyen. Ice Tiger looks over the two not wanting to go someplace too private right now since he can't be sure he will ever walk away again after that meeting. Thing is if it is the only way to get the extra nuyen he might have to go along with them. Both of these two don't seem to know me so it is most likely I don't have to expect them to be an enemy from my clouded past. I'll see where they offer to talk. Ice Tiger takes a look around the area to get a feel for how many people might jump him, he knows he is out numbered in a bad way, and the two new comers have some magic and cyberware to back them up. Thing is with those skills they might be a way into the Shadows for jobs and skill sharpening. Where is it you want to talk over a deal on this van and you said you might have a work on the table too.
-
Looking for a diner or bar nearby, suitable for a private conversation.
Area Knowledge (Moscow) 2 + Intuition 5 = 7d6
7d6.hits(5)=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4410711/)
Whatever is the first to come to his mind he will put the address on a datachip.
Lynx digs a datachip from his pocket and shows it to the troublemaker, he then slots its, his eyes flash for a second then he retrieves it and hands it to the standoffish human. "Meet us here in one hour. The van comes with us."
-
Noting the mellowing in the tensions, Flea heads over to the van and motions to one of the mechanics.
She ready to go? Got the RFID key?
-
Leonid hurries into the office to fetch the keys and hands them to flea without saying a word before skulking off the back of the garage.
Here you go maa'm.
Freshly fueled and serviced for you.
I look forward to seeing you again soon.
-
Flea takes the keys with a disarming smile and climbed up into the cab, starting engine and heading back out to the road.//I'm gonna do a few loops of the blocks and see if we get a tail from those guys back there. The fuck was all that about anyway?//
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Ice Tiger slots the chip he got and checks where he is going to meet these two. They best show up or I will be looking for them. Ice Tiger turns his vision back from astral and checks out the truck to see if he can get it's plates as well as the van's plates before the two drive away. Hey you two best show up or I will not be too happy. As Ice Tiger looks at the two getting ready to leave he uses his Cybereyes recording unit to get as much info about the two hopeful runners and the two vehicles they now have, so if the meeting doesn't take place he can have some info to help track down these two.
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"One hour. We will be there." Lynx then turns and walks to his truck before replying to Flea <Yes that is good. We will leave in separate directions, if they follow you let me know. I am still confused about what that ordeal was about. My only guess was he was trying to pull a rookie job. That would mean someone else has interests in the van. It may not be worth the trouble.>
Stepping into the truck he waits for Flea to pull out of the parking lot before moving.
-
Flea eases out into the light traffic, taking a left.
//what did you say to the guy in the end? you know him?//
-
Once Flea and van pull out Lynx pulls to the exit and watches the car down the road.
<Told him if he wanted to make money to meet us at a bar in an hour. I am still debating whether to go or not. Sorry this is why i prefer a plan. Prior planning prevents piss poor performance.>
-
//you're not thinking of hiring the kid are you? We have no idea who the he'll he is or who he works for!//
-
<I am not the one that does hiring. I am the one that does firing. Heh that was funny joke. It was just the first thing I could think of to make him back down, other than my Predators. I typically try to avoid bloodshed in broad daylight in a public place a friend works at. I suppose we could just pay him to fuck off until we are done but he has our faces now. Unless we play nice we could have someone after us for this.>
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Ice watches as the two start to drive away. I was hired for a job but both of these guys seem to have in their bodies signs that they run in the shadows so I might be able to start getting connected. Thing is I was still hired for a job so best to make sure if these guys don't pan out for a meeting I have a back up plan we meet in one hour so two hours should do.
Ice Tiger quickly turns on his Power Focus Eyes and expels mana out of his solar plexus and forms it into a watcher.
Watcher limited Life 2 hours
Summoning 3 + Magic 5 + Power Focus 4 = 12
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4411645/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4411645/) 4hits (limited to 2) 2 hours of work.
Drain limited to 2S
Will 5 + Logic 6( 8 ) = 13
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4411647/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4411647/) 5 hits
Once the watcher is formed out of Ice Tigers mana he tells him I want you to track the person in the Van for the next two hours. I want you to continue to tell me every two blocks where he is so I can keep a mental picture of where he is. Also let me know if at any time you lose him for any reason. Also tell me if he ever gets out of the van With that the Watcher starts his shadowing of Lynx. I figure he has the van my job is to get the van, I want more contacts in the shadows so I'll show up at the meeting but for an hour after the meet time best to keep an eye on the man with the van. I could send a second on to tail the other guy.... Just don't need an up date every two blocks is all.
Ice Tiger Decides a second tail is in order. He again expels mana from his solar plexus and forms it into a flying eyeball.
Watcher limited Life 2 hours
Summoning 3 + Magic 5 + Power Focus 4 = 12
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4411657/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4411657/) 3 hits limited to 2
Drain limited to 2S
Will 5 + Logic 6( 8 ) = 13
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4411658/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4411658/) 8 hits no drain.
Ice Tiger tells his second watcher. I would like you to fallow the person in the truck. Giving the watcher a mental image of Flea.I want you to could every block he passes and every 30 minutes give me a recap of his moments. If he gets out of his truck let me know right away. Also if you lose him for any reason let me know right away. With that two watcher start tailing the two. Ice Tiger calls up his "Snow Hawk" comm link and tells "Net Wolf" to pull a map of Seattle and start plotting the points he gives him.
Well with the tail in place and a system to keep track of there movements Ice TIger sends a command to his bike via his comm link to meet him near by. Ice Tiger starts to walk out of the area to meet with his "Blue Lightning" Bike a few blocks away from this shop to keep the workers from seeing what he has for a ride.
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As Ice Tiger gets his report from Watcher # 1 he decides he best to deal with a problem before it happens. Watcher one when watcher two reports in I want you only to count blocks to your self until Watcher two is finished his report then you will report all those blocks and go back to the 2 block reporting again. Ice Tiger mentally tells both watcher Remember you are counting all blocks and all turns for a full report. Ice Tiger continues on his way to meet his bike, with a cable going from his data jack on his right temple to his comm link giving mental points on a map of Seattle to plot the movements of the two guys he just talked too.
OOC NOTE: I messed up about who was in what vehicle so the 2 block report is on Flea in the Van and the 1/2 hour report is on Lynx in the truck.
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AS flea drives the van away the men in the car drive off in the other direction, the whole thing felt a bit odd but it doesn't deserve a second thought when you think about it. I mean it would paranoid right?
Time starts to pass and the 'meeting' at the fugu dinner was fast approaching, the traffic starts to build as you approach lunch time in moscow.
[spoiler=Scawire]Your watchers keep you updated with the others movements,[/spoiler]
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Ice Tiger gets on his Bike and makes his way to the bar that the meeting will be at he figures checking out the area around the bar before the meeting happens might be a good idea. With Ice Tigers watchers continuing to say the location of the two he is to meet he decides to let the bike run on auto pilot for the time being so he doesn't have to drive and plot points on a map.
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Spotting the car move off in the other direction, flea makes sure to check the rear facing camera feed as she checks for tails, looping several times round a couple of blocks to force their hand.
int 3, percep 3, enhancements 3 (9d6.hits(5)=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4414096/)
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After your first loop you clearly see if they were trying to follow you they failed as you can't see anyone tailing you even slightly.
the traffic is building slowly and it will take a while to get to the dinner if you intend to stash the van first.
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//can't see any physical tails Lynx, meet you back at yours?//
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<Good. Yes meet at my apartment. Any ideas on the kid?>
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//I say bin him, we've got enough risk to manage as it is//
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Ice Tiger will go to the club about 10 to 15 minutes early to meet the two what he hope is runners. Ice Tiger keeps plotting dots on his comm links map, one for the van and one for the truck. If the van stops his watcher will let him know that the runner and the van are moving apart. If this happens Ice Tiger informs his watcher to stay with the van. The Van is what the job I do have is about best not lose it.
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//I say bin him, we've got enough risk to manage as it is//
<I agree we have enough risk already but it will be difficult to pull off with just the two of us. Besides if the kid was taking such a small job it should not take much money to convince him to keep his mouth shut. I do not like the circumstances but we can not allow him to compromise our mission. >
Lynx tugs his beard in thought as he goes to pick up Flea for the meeting.
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//Alright, lets buy the kid a beer then. If he checks out, he can do the monkey work.
I'm just parking up now//
Flea swings the van into the bay behind Lynx's home, waving as he approaches with the tarp, killing the engine with a gesture to the AR console.
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Flea and Lynx arrive at the diner nearly on time after takling the mammoch ammount of lunch time traffic. Arriving at the diner your 'friend' is sat in a booh waiting for you. The diner is rtraight out of the old hollywood movies and so is the food. I mean litteraly no expense went into it at all it almost looks like someone ate the food already.
The waitresses are the only attraction here and the gangers certxnly were attracted.
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Lynx walks in and surveys the diner before going to meet their new 'friend'. He motions for Flea to take the inner seat of the booth then sits. His cybereyes flicker and adjust as he sizes up Ice Tiger. "It goes without saying that these are far from ideal circumstances but I am willing to overlook that for now... Why don't you start by telling us more about yourself? "
General scoping out the patrons inside and noting exits
Perception 4 + Intuition 5 + Enhancements 3 = 12d6
12d6.hits(5)=3 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4418882/)
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Ice Tiger doesn't like telling anyone about himself. Ha, I don't know myself and since you are new I'm not too sure what to tell you guys.... well there may be away into the shodows should still let them know some stuff. Ice Tiger takes his sip from his piss poor coffee then looks over at Lynx. Well my back story is not something I can really tell you. The thing is when I met you two I was able to tell that ... Raising his cup in the direction of Lynx. You seem to be lacing your body with some cyber ware, well at the same time this lady over is packing some magical abilities. Ice Tiger takes another sip of his coffee then places it on the table. For this reason I figured you might have some wild job for that van on the side and a few more nuyen my way would help out. Also if you two turn out to be decent enouph people, I might find some future work too. Ice Tiger looks over at the two waiting to see what their response is to his coming forward with his sizing up of them.
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Lynx shakes his head, "Oh boy are you green. I could care less what your life story is boy. What do you go by? What's the reason I should waste more time with you instead of leaving you hog tied in the frozen wastes? Why were you in my way in the first place?"
He mentally sends a text to Flea <Be prepared to run any info the kid drops and send me the results. >
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Ice Tiger looks over at the two of them, not wanting to tell them anything just wanting to get into the shadow life, which for some reason he believes will not be for the first time. Thing is knowing so much about the shadow community and alot about the players in it, Ice Tiger knows he will have to sell himself to get the job. Oh how Ice Tiger hates telling anyone about himself. Well then again maybe before waking up in coffin motel with a few credsticks, a blood stain and a med kit hooked up to himself, maybe he loved to tell people about himself. That could be why he was in a blood stained coffin motel with no memories. Ok I hate to do it but I have to sell myself.
Ice Tiger looks over at the two hopefully runners clenching his fists under the table. My Street name is Ice Tiger or Icer what every you like. As you might have noticed I was able to astral perceive that both of you have abilities from cyber ware or Magic, that is the main reason I'm risking the nuyen coming to me right away to let you guys take the van on a side run. Ice Tiger unclenched his fists. See that didn't get you killed, well if I do tell them too much it will make getting the van they hide a bit harder, and them more ready to deal with what I can throw their way. As for why you should hire me I do have some Low level magic abilities and a few other skills to aid me in a run. Oh ya and I'm still going to need to get that van back I did say that you could use if for the side job that the mechnic told me you guys where using it for but I also need the nuyen from that job. I really don't like to go back on a job I have been hired for. Ice Tiger plays with his black shades on his face that are hiding his Silver Eyes that are under them. Not wanting to tell every thing that he can do he decides to take a breather here to see what the next wave of 20 questions will be knowing that the two are going to want to know they can trust Ice Tiger to some degree before they let him take a bit of nuyen from them inorder to watch there backs.
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Lynx nods, "Yes. Tell more about this job with my van. I probably paid more for my last bottle of vodka than you were paid to get this van."
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Ice Tiger shakes his head. The nuyen isn't really something important right now. I told you my name why don't you introduce yourself to me. Also if I'm going to risk my rep taking a side job and at the same time slow down the delivery of the van, how do I know you can deliver. Do you have any contacts that would be an aid you would share if I met your expectations on this side job. Ice Tiger takes the last sip of his coffee placing it at the edge of the table signalling that he is done, thing is in a place like this it should be a good while before the next cup shows up, enouph time for the two introduce themselves that is what civil people do at there first meeting, exchange names and all that.
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"I am called Lynx. If you can do this job we can discuss our relationship further. You should go ahead and cut your losses with the van. I can not allow you to take it. Just call your employer and tell him it was gone, nothing you could do." Lynx leans back in the booth and crosses his arms over his chest.
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Ice Tiger starts playing with his shades on his face as he hears Lynx tell him to cut his losses with the van. There is a few things with cutting my losses with the van. Once I take a job I am honor bound to finish the job, until I see that this new job has a good reason to take a hit to my honor I must have the recovery of the van in mind. If this job and new relationship I have with you two does give me a good reason to drop the van recovery job, I will go back to my boss and give him compensation for my dropping the job I have been given. Sorry but that is the way it has to be. Ice Tiger starts tapping his fingers on his knee under the table knowing full well his spirit aid his martial arts honor the spirit holds dear can not be put aside with out some kind of compensation for the dropping a job Ice Tiger has agreed to do. If the time comes that these two runners prove themselves to Ice Tiger, then a talk with his martial artist spirit will happen on what compensation will be needed to be given to his employer.
If I do join up with you on this side job I will also be honor bound to do everything I can to make sure I complete the job assigned to me, anything else would again bring dishonor to me and I can not do such a thing. When you are ready we can talk about what the job is that you have that you. Since I agreed to not take the van for either nuyen or a role in this side job.
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Chikuso, I knew we should of binned him off.
//Lynx, this kid is trouble. Let him have the van, we'll just boost one or rent one. He's got a real bee in his bonnet about the van, he's obviously shit scared about failing his boss, which means putting him on a "side job", as he called it, faces the wrath of his employer too. How much of the cut you thinking of slinging at him anyway?//
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Quick_Reply_To:Flea <True he is trouble but you must realize that is my mechanic he is being paid to rip off. Let me try one more thing. I was not planning on paying him more than five thousand.>
Lynx leans forward placing his elbows of the table and crossing his hands in front of his face, "You would speak to me of honor, boy? Honor is not sitting idly by while one's friends are being abused and taken advantage of... That mechanic you were speaking to earlier in one such..." he moves his fingers in air quotes "...'contact' of mine like you were speaking of. You must understand the problems this creates. You can make amends with your employer and he will continue to prosper, if my friend loses his job he will be unable to feed his family or keep his home. Which do you truly think is more honorable to uphold? Especially when two thousand nuyen worth of profit for you are at stake. " He shrugs his shoulders then leans back into the booth, crossing his arms across his chest again.
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Ice Tiger keeps his eyes on the two runners. So that mechanic is a contact of Lynx's. Ok then. I Took a job I either have to finish that job or make compensation for the job not being completed. If you guys hold up your end to pay me for the work I'll do for you and there is a good chance I can get more jobs with you guys, I'm fine with going with the making compensation to my employer, you can keep the van. The thing is if I take this side job, you guys are doing is given to me I will be under the same code of honor to full fill it as well. Ice Tiger stretches his back wishing the cup on the corner of the table was full of soy cafe right now. You did mention 2,000 nuyen for this side job. Is there a bonus If I do a good job since around 1K is going to have to go back to my employers hands since it seems like you don't want to let the van go even after the side job is done.
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Lynx smiles, *Finally he is being reasonable. *
"I understand and personally I admire that you feel honor bound to fulfill your job. Too often these days people neglect their sense of duty. I tell you what I will do, you preform well during our job and I will give you an extra thousand to cover the compensation to your employer. Provided you tell him nothing of us or the job we will preform. I must have your word on this. As long as we can agree on this I believe we can move on to discuss what we need from you."
<Flea can you set up a secure connection with the kid? He will at least need the picture of the target though the rest of our intel is probably unnecessary. >
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Ok that is artic. Ya you can have my word not to talk to my former employer about this new job. For 3 k you got yourself another runner. What is this job you will have my help with? With his soy-cafe still empty it seems Ice Tiger will be with out go juice for a little while. Unless these guys flake on the nuyen I guess tracking the van was not needed but you can never be sure how things are going to turn out. Especially in the shadow biz.
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//<<Lynx::>> Yeah, zapping it over now. I really hope this works out//
Flea mentally opened an AR terminal, booting her encryption algorithm and securing a connection to Tiger's link.
As soon as it completed its run, she zapped over the details.
ewar 3, encrypt 5 (8d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4425233/) encryption, 2 hits
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As you continue to talk in the dinner patrons come and go, until your the only ones left and the waitresses are there offering more soy-caf constantly. They are getting in the way and are clearly getting pissed off. At the end of their shift they are tired and frustrated its not long before one finally plucks up enough courage to ask the question.
So then fellas, it seems like you've nearly dried up our caf supplies.
IS there anything else we can get for you.
She just stand there staring at you all with a tired scowl on her face directed clearly at you.
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Flea smiles at the wiatress, No, sorry, we lost track of time. We'll just pay the bill and leave you to get home
Flea bows her head slightly in thanks.
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Lynx smiles at the waitress, "Yes our mistake we should be going." After settling the tab he gathers the others outside in the parking lot. Over the encrypted channel <Icer the picture here is our target. We must acquire him and deliver him. Before we met earlier we were on our way to scout out a subway station as a possible extraction point. We should not waste anymore time."
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Ice Tiger pays his part of the tab then fallows the other two. With Lynx sending him a picture of the mark the team has as a target Ice Tiger looks it over. Can't take an astral read from the digital but that is fine. Ok Lynx lets go check it out see what we got to work with. Icer has dismissed his two watchers there was no reason to keep tabs on the van anymore. Well walking to his bike he guns a smoke and gets ready to fallow the other two. I'll fallow you two with my bike.
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Flea heads out into the cold, the arctic wind biting at the exposed parts of her neck and face as she tries to bury her chin into the lapels of her jacket.
A light snow blew in gusts, caught in the glare of the Diner's LED lighting as Flea climbed into Lynx's van.
So you think this is gonna work out?
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Lynx fires up the old truck and cranks up the heat. "To be honest I have no idea. If all we need from the kid is another set of eyes sure it should not be a problem. If the mission demands more of him his inexperience could prove troublesome. Though if he has magical abilities who really knows? The kid could be capable of anything. At least during the dry run we can see how well he follows orders."
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All right, lets go see what we've got to work with in that park and at the tram stop.
Flea was apprehensive. She'd worked with Lynx, knew his abilities and how he worked. "Icer" was an unknown, and that troubled her.
She didn't really have any idea of whether he could even be trusted, which troubled her even more.
She snuggled into her jacket as the ancient clapped out heater breathed tepid air weakly in her direction, barely scratching the evening cold.
Syncing her image link to her comm again, she called up her NavSoft, inspecting the target area from the aerial view, not really sure of what she was looking for; more of something to keep her mind occupied instead of worrying about the new kid.
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The day starts to brighten up as you head towards to tram stop park and subway portion of the good professors route. As you approach there are very few people around. and you find a place to park up subtly without any trouble.
There is constant rustling of the autumn leaves in the breeze and the dapples light constantly shifting like a kaleidoscope being cast down through the foliage. the whole area is picturesque and almost feels like being lost int eh country if it wasn't for the telltale noises of the trams and traffic around. A large construction site of the far side of the park that you passed on your way to your rendezvous can be heard faintly in the background over all the other noises of the surrounding area.
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Icer gets off his motorcycle glad the day is starting to brighten up. So this is the place. Icer grabs a Black Cigarette from his long coat's inside pocket, lights his zippo and drags the flame down the end of the smoke. Well being the new guy with little info. best let the others decide which of them will take the lead. Icer walks over to the other two runners. So guys point me in the direction of what needs to be done. Icer starts wrestling on his insides trying to give in to telling the two a bit about his skill set. With this not being a private place Icer feels better about the two, if they had wanted to set him up for an attack instead of giving him a real job, odds are they would have made it more remote, public places are not the best place to geek a person if you have a choice. Icer decides to wait and see what the runners ask and if any thing shows up that needs a more magic approach, until then best not to tell the other two too much.
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Flea stretches out as she climbs out of the truck. The sunlight glints off the light scattering of snow as Flea takes a look around.
construction site looks good, plenty of elevation up there for a stake out.
She leads as they enter the park, trying to look like they were just enjoying the autumn sunshine.
Icer, you're a mojo slinger right, as in, you've got Mage-sight?
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As he exits the truck Lynx activates his cybereye recording unit and falls in behind Flea. When she mentions the constitution site he zooms in and looking for good vantage points. He silently follows the others taking in the beautiful scenery of the park.
Perception 4 + Intuition 5 + Enhancements 3 + Actively Looking 3 = 15d6
15d6.hits (5)=9 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4433137/)
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[spoiler=Perception Result]
OMG awesome roll man,
There are indeed several vantage points of great use in the construction site. The easiest one is a platform on the scaffolding it is quite discrete and currency the building work is on the other side of the site so should be easy to stay there without being noticed.
The park is quite large and the heavy foliage will provide plenty of cover form any elevated surveillance platforms however.
As you look around you see the tram approaching the station at the far side of the park near the construction site.
The walk from the tram stop to the subway will take about 5 minutes through the park.
[/spoiler]
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Icer Looks over at his new teammate. Ya I got mage sight it was one of the only reasons I decided not to make a move on the van. Thought with what you two have with magic and cyberware that you guys might have a way for me to get into the shadow life. So is there anything in particular you want me looking for? Icer looks over at the construction zone as he drags on his black smoke.
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I dunno really, take a look around, see if there is anything of note. Guess we won't know what we're looking for until we see it.
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Icer switches his vision over to the astral and scans the area to see if anything pops out at him.
I'll roll perception first then Assensing use what ever roll you think fits Cr4kp0t
Perception (Visual) 1(3) + Int 4 = 7
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4434456/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4434456/) 3 hits
Assensing 1 + INT 4 = 5
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4434460/ (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4434460/) 3 hits
After Icer's first scan of the area to see if anything stood out he decides to keep his eyes searching the astral, unless he sees a good reason to stop. Ok I'll keep any eye on the astral overlay, I'll let you know of anything interesting.
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@ Scawire:
[spoiler=Assensing Results]
As you open your mind to examine the mists of the astral plan your vision is filled and you suddenly see everything clearly.
The grey objects of the buildings encasing the vibrant auras of the the local flora; the tress swaying in the subtle breeze. The earth is bold and the park is alive with movement. you see a few aura and signatures around the park as you examine them you are able to ascertain:
There are many astral being present in the park mostly benign simple plant spirits savoring the lush vibrant aura of the local pant life they pay you no attention and all have a low force and seem at peace and relaxed.
There is one watcher spirit that seems confused and is patrolling the park looking for something and failing.
There is a hobo on one of the park benches he is seriously unwell and severely depressed.
[/spoiler]
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Ok guys I got my astral eyes open nothing right now screaming at me that needs to be double checked. Icer blows out a puff of smoke giving the watcher in the area a second look. Ah might be nothing but those guys can also be dangerous, best keep an eye on him and see if more arrive. Icer will fallow the other two runners since his is the wingman on this part of the run.
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As they continue to stroll through the park Lynx forwards snapshots to the team from his eyes showing the vantage points he spotted. "There are certainly some good spots to watch the park. Perhaps this will be a better place to meet our associate than we originally thought... especially if it quite after dark."
*As long as the park is mostly empty we should be able to snatch the professor and find some cover in the trees long enough to make it to the van.*
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Icer switches over to his normal vision to check out the pics he was sent, right after he gives them the once over he shifts back to his astral sight. Icer loosens the blue silk tie he is wearing inorder to relay a bit as the three take a stroll through the park.
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As you continue to examine the park and the surrounding area the foot traffic starts to build,
A quick referral to schedule has the professor coming on his usual route through in about an hour,.
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Noticing the time Lynx speaks up, "We should get inside the station so we have time to look around before the target arrives. Keep your eyes open for blind spots in the station's security. Flea how hard would it be to get into the security feed? We have approximately one hour before the target's expected, we need to make sure we do not raise any suspicions before we act."
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Computer 3, analyze 6 (9d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4440725/) matrix perception
Hacking 8, exploit 5, optimization 1 (14d6.hits(5)=7) first hacking roll, user account please
[url=http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4440730/]Hacking 2nd roll (13d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4440724/)
Hope that's enough. Exploit program is running mute module (suppresses alarms for a turn)
[/url]
ok, give me a sec and I'll tell you.
Flea engages the image link and mentally opens her hacking suite in AR, scanning around for the node and probing its defenses for a basic account.
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Icer fallows the other two keeping his eyes open to all the astral impressions he can get. With his eyes scanning over the area again and again Icer does his best to try and spot any magically awakened people that might be around. Lets see how this goes. I do have to make it back to my former boss and drop a grad on him for the mission I backed out of. Icer drops the last of his smoke on the ground before the group enters the station, taking time to stomp out the cherry. Fallowing the group Icer grabs his long coat by the seems and closes it around himself, feeling a small gust of wind blowing.
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@ Csjarrat
[spoiler=Hacking results]
You easily identity the home nexus for the subway security station:
It currently only has one other user on with a basic account
It is not operating with an alert.
As you attack the firewall t's coding crumbles beneath you and get a security access without even trying at your first attempt...
[spoiler=OOC]Not even going to bother rolling for the firewall with that level of epic roll as it doesn't stand a chance.[/spoiler]
The basic access gives you view only for all the cameras in the station and basic alert functions for the hardware security in the station i.e barriers and doors.
With the security access you can see all the timetables of security sweeps with view only and have full access to the camera feeds, and hardware security measures in the station.
The cameras are fixed position cameras and it is clear there are blind spots everywhere but no way to go through the station without being spotted at all. The main focus of the camera is on the entry and exit ways and the platform with an additional camera watching the entrance way to the security room and the service access passage
On examination of the feeds it is clear that this subway station is very old and the their graffiti all over the walls (at least it looks like graffiti) the light are old fluorescent bulbs and there are only simple mag-locks protecting the doors.
There is a heavy gate available to block the main entrance and there are several full height turnstiles that open when they recognise an authorised fare.
[/spoiler]
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ok guys, I'm in. Old old system, but there are a good few camera feeds covering approaches and platforms meaning I think we'll be better off making the hit in the park. Looks like there is a security room on site too, though I've not seen any guards yet. Thoughts?
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Lynx strokes his bushy beard, "If the cameras have the exits covered then perhaps it is best if we stay out of the terminal. I suggest we find a discrete spot in the park to sit and once you see the target exit the terminal have your little fly drone follow him and map his route through the park. That way we can find a good spot to acquire him along his route and do not risk exposing ourselves to his handlers."
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Ok, we've got a bit of time before he comes through today, what do you guys think to running the hit today? It would mean less time exposed to his security detail for one thing. For all we know they got a good shot of us as we drove by. A 2nd sighting of us must mean they'll have to respond surely...
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Icer looks down at his crushed smoke. I guess I could have finished that, oh well. Pulling a smoke out of his inside pocket he gives his response to Flea's question. I'm fine if we make our move today. If you guys think we can do it I'm game. One thing what intel on this guys security do you have. Icer lights his smoke and pulls the dark grey smoke into his lungs. Once I find out a bit of info on what to expect from the security this guy has I'll get myself a elemental for extra back up. If we are dry on what security he has I'll get some back up with what I think will help. Icer looks at the flame of his lighter as he starts to think what kind of elemental would do the job.
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"If we are to strike today we have much to prepare in little time. We need to fan out and find a secluded spot close to the path to approach the target. Preferably one with cover to the far side where we can have my truck waiting."
PM_To:Flea <Can you make the approach? I would prefer to stay with my truck since we did not bring the van... If this is not done properly I will have to destroy the truck. I like the truck. Besides you are better suited to hide if necessary.>
He turns to Icer, "When this goes down we need you by the main exit. Can you provide a distraction if need be? With a spell or spirit perhaps?"
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Icer knows he can use a spirit to cause a distraction he just has to figure out what kind of distraction would work. Not really wanting to tell the group everything he can do he wrestles with what he should tell the group, then decides these two might be his ticket into the shadow life his soul seems to be pulling him into or maybe back into. Ya I could get a spirit on stand by to help with some distractions, give me a few seconds to figure out what spirit will work..... Icer runs down the list of Elemental then an idea pops into his head. ... I could get a water spirit on stand by. If he is powerful enouph he can come equiped with the ability to conceal the three of us making us harder to notice. Icer then does a mental run down of all his spells. I could get everyone under an invisibility spell but then I'd show the group more of my skills and I don't know if they are really trust worthy... Hum Icer takes a drag from his black smoke as he thinks to himself if he should tell the group of his spells. ... I might have to tell them some of my spell skills like the cloaking of a vehicle so that we can get away. I'll do that if we get a tail I guess.
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Lynx nods to Icer, "Yes good. I'd rather stay completely hidden than risk a shootout at this lovely park. Have this spirit cover us and the truck if possible. Let's start scouting and I will move the truck around. "
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Look guys, if we're rushing it and its going to endanger the mission then we can do it again tomorrow or even tonight on his way home. We don't have to rush, it was only a suggestion if you feel comfy doing the hit today. What do you think? wait, or strike?
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"The only misgiving I have about doing it today is having my truck seen. If we can avoid that and find a good spot to load the target into then I am fine with striking today. "
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I'm flying a bit blind on this one, my thoughts are if it is not a huge risk we do the grab.... That is what we intend right?.... Say we do it tonight or tommorow get the right vehicles good target Intel on his escorts, and make the grab with a solid plan not a fly by your pants one. ICER is glad he was able to finish his smoke this time, as he crushes the butt out with his shoe he has a feeling of calm success enter his body, even a full smoke is a small victory in this health minded country.
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"There is no reason to rush this. Tomorrow it is. Now let us do the surveillance before he comes through." Lynx walks off towards the far side of the park. He strolls along looking up at the trees recording as he goes.
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As you continue walking round the park and examine the surrounds time passes quickly. The rustle of the autumnal leaves in the light breeze is calming and the whole area has an aura of calm surrounding it. The leafy canopy is thick and lush and almost conceals the surrounding buildings.
[spoiler=Notes]
It takes about 20 minutes to walk the length of park on the tracks that are present, there is only one place that there is totally secluded during this walk and that is where the hobo is crashing on a bench
[/spoiler]
As you pass the most secluded part of the park the Hobo wakes up and is clearly very grumpy and agitated and he starts to confront you.
Argggh damn people, stop it stop it now, your disturbing the plants!
He can barely stand and is coughing heavily he's clearly not well at all and could probably do with a visit to the hospital.
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Flea does her best to just ignore the old hobo as they walk the pathway, last thing she wanted to do was be banged up for beating up some old down-and-out
-
Icer does his best to look at everyone's auras to see if anyone with magical talent pops out at him. Best keep my astral eyes in place. Maybe I can spot some awakened people if not I best find a bench that can scan the arrival of our target. Icer twitches his fingers as he walks the park with the other two. So you guys spot any benches we could seat at to stake out the target at. We don't want to stand out too much by lapping this park 10 times. Just let me know when you find a vantage point to look from. Icer figures if the group finds a few spots to sit at that would draw the least amount of notice.
OOC Let me know if you want an assessing rolls cr4kp0t. Or you could do them your self at home with physical dice.... your call.
-
The vibrant glow of the all plant and wildlife in the park is senesational not what you ever expect to find in the middle of a city, a welcome haven in the concrete jungle.
[spoiler=Assensing results]
The watcher you noticed previously has now dissipated.
The Hobo is indeed very ill and exceedingly agitated, while he is awakened his magic is nowhere near your own and his abilities are very limited he had an affinity with plant spirits and developed a knack at calling them up this is the limit of his magical abilities. He currently had four bound spirits wandering around the park, all are force 2. His health is certainly bad and he is currently suffering from a form of dementia and delusions, his condition is terminal and he has suffered from radiation poisoning, he is very thin and weak he probably has only a few weeks to live (if that)
[/spoiler]
-
When the three have gotten out of ear shot of the hobo Icer decides he should let the team know what his astral sight has relieved. Hey that hobo we passed he has magical abilities and is sporting 4 low level spirits that are making rounds in this park. Just thought I'd give you the heads up about his astral and spirit presence. Icer decides to grab another one of his black smokes to suck on for the rest of this walk in the park.
-
Good catch. You think he's as senile as he's making himself out to be?
Flea took a good look at the construction site from her vantage point, trying to figure out how busy it was and whether she could get up there without being spotted...
enhance 3, int 3, percep 3 (9d6.hits(5)=2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4459884/)
-
"Poor old slot. Instead of pestering the homeless how about we get some eyes in the air? He should be here soon." Lynx gives the old hobo a wide berth and avoids eye contact.
-
[spoiler=Csjarrat]
From your vantage point you can see the construction site quite reasonably, analyzing the site and scaffolding you think you can find a route to get the best vantage point without being seen by the workers on site.
It will involve employing your trademark skills as there will be some leaps and difficult spaces to navigate:
[spoiler=Rolls required]
1. Get over the metal fence of the construction site 2m high:
Climbing - Threshold (2) with a -2 dice pool (Assisted climbing and sheer metal barrier)
OR
Gymnastics - Threshold (4) (great leap applies)
2. Move across the construction site to get to the scaffolding without being seen
Infiltration
3. Ascend the scaffolding
Climbing (extended) - Threshold (10), modifiers +3 dice pool (Assisted climbing and easily climbable)
OR
5 Gymnastics tests - Threshold (3) (great leap applies)
4. Jump across gap to get to perch
Static Jump- Gymnastics tests - Threshold (4) (great leap applies)
OR
Running Jump- Gymnastics tests - Threshold (2) (great leap applies)
[/spoiler]
[/spoiler]
-
Alright, I'm going over that fence, see if I can get a good look out from that perch.
Flea tucked in around the back of a series of shrubs and dug out her gecko kit from her pockets, quickly affixing the straps around her knees, boots and hands.
She dug into her satchel bag and retrieved her helmet, flicking the electronics mode to "ON", syncing it with her commlink and trode net in a blink.
Taking a second to focus her inner mana, she belted towards the wall and vaulted it almost effortlessly, tucking into a clean roll on the far side to maintain her momentum.
A rough scree of rubble and loose earth greeted her on the far side.
Keeping low and timing her crossings between cover, she did her best to avoid the workmen's line of sight.
Approaching the skeleton of the building, she once again channelled her mana into pure strength and attacked the half-finished building like a young child attacked a play ground climbing frame.
At the top, the cold wind whistled through the exposed lattice of bars, struts and planking; reminding Flea of the dangers of cocking the jump up.
She carefully measured the gap, her helmet's laser range finder pinging a paltry couple of metres into the helmet's HUD and flea vaulted the gap, savouring the air whistling through her hair for the second it took for gravity to return her to the other platform.
<<To:team>>//Made it, keep your comms open, i'll keep you updated//
Only a little out of breath, Flea rewarded her efforts with a rest-of-sorts.
She lay prone to obfuscate line of sight to her from the ground and dialled up the image enhancement and zoom factors on her monocle, watching and waiting for their mark.
-
<10-4. Channel will remain open. Be careful up there.> Lynx moves into position to catch a glimpse of the target from under a tree near the path.
-
While you all sit in wait ready to monitor the professor on his journey through the park, the hobo continues his ranting at any and all passers-by. the professor being a creature of habit is right on schedule and you see him walking out of the subway and into the park.
@Csjarrat
Perception results:
As you monitor the park and the professor on his journey through the park you identify a man who is following him during his walk. The professor stops and looks at the hobo as he challenges him, the tail walking by to maintain his cover.
The hobo and the professor talk for a good few minutes. You are unable to make out exactly what is being said between the two. After their talk the professor shakes the hobos hand and he seems instantly calmer and more docile, at peace almost before curling up to nap on his bench.
-
Flea opens up an AR terminal, booting her encryption suite and layering it into the team's comms channel
encrypt 6, ewar 3 (9d6.hits(5)=5) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4465883/) 5 hits, encryption
//<<Guys, i've spotted him, heading through the park. about to chat to the crazy hobo. see if you can get in close. He's got one guy shadowing him.>>//
Flea feels the cool wind biting into the exposed cracks between her jacket and her neck and the cold seeping through the plascrete into her abdomen.
She pushes it out of her mind as the prof and the hobo strike up some friendly banter.
<<They seem like old friends. They are having a really good chat>>
-
Icer has decided to sit on a bench his plan was to astrally check out the Professor and any muscle he had with him. Getting the heads up from Flea that the Professor is talking to the crazy mage of the park with 4 spirits in the area Icer starts to run through his mind if that would be a good idea. Ah they just don't make this or the van pick up easy runs do they. Well might as well see if I can get a look from my seat. Icer decides to position himself on the bench he is on with a view of the direction the Processor was spotted at, then makes sure his eyes are scanning the astral for an assensing of the target and his shadow.
<<<To Team:
Keep me posted on the professors movement, I don't want to move too much and spook him if I don't have to. Also let me know if I will get a line of sight or if I have to project to get a read on the two.>>>
Icer hopes that the Professor will come into his line of sight but if Flea reports Icer will not have LOS he will have to project to get an astral read.
-
@ Scawire
Assessing results
As your astral eyes continue to examine the park you notice the professor coming and continue are surprised at thee clarity of the astral plane, you've rarely seen it this clear and you get a full impression do the whole area.
When the professor sits down and talks with the hobo he instantly calms down. The hobos aura pulsate as the professor shake his hand and to your keen astral eyes it's obvious why; the professor is a magician and quite a powerful one, his pure 6 essence fueling his magic of 8. He has cast a decontaminate and a variety of other healing spells that have done a lot to combat the terminal status of the hobo. while not fully healed the hobo is now going to live.
The professor is very anxious he is very aware of the fact he's being followed and feels very uncomfortable, he is in good health but has some telltale sign of previous exposure to radiation, and if not careful he may end up with some level of radiation sickness.
-
Icer is glad for once his astral sight is giving a good view, after waking up in a blood stained coffin room in the slums his eyes have not shown clear astral impressions like it has today.
<<< To Team
Well guys not sure if you knew this or not this Professor we are after is a spell slinger and from what I can tell he is a powerful one. Also he seems to be casting spells on the Hobo as a way to keep him alive. Just FYI >>>
Icer decides to pretend that he is reading a matrix news report, Icer moves his hands as if he is scrolling down then to the left. Then sits for a little bit as if reading what ever it was his fake matrix search got him.
-
Lynx holds his position under the tree, <<I must say I'm not surprised the target is a mojo slinger. Perhaps we could use the hobo for the approach. Either disguise one of us as him or possibly compel him to have a few words on our behalf. Icer do you have any magics that can do that?>>
-
Icer makes another hand movement like he is scrolling down his fake AR feed.
To: Team
Well when it comes to disguising one of use any spell I would use this major mojo slinger would easily see through it so that would be out. We could see about using a physical disguise but then we would have to move the Hobo so there is not two hobos. As for getting the hobo to say a few words on our behalf I might be able to do that will a Push spell I have that would get a suggestion in his mind to do what we want. Hope that helps.
With an astral view of the target Icer holds his position playing around with a fake AR screen.
-
<<I would be more worried about one of his handlers seeing it than him but if it may cause him to react differently than normal it could go very poorly. I am thinking we would be better off bribing the hobo with a warm meal and a handful of creds to deliver a message than trying to run him off that bench. No offense Icer but I do not like idea of 'pushing' a man's mind... if it were more dire circumstances perhaps but not today.
Flea let us know when the target and his handlers have left the park. I will approach the old man and see if we can work something out.>> Lynx stands and stretches, reaching up towards the branches. He takes a look around casually and yawns.
-
//ice, did you get a look at the handler? He a major slinger too?\\
-
<< To Team
No I have not IDed the handler if you can give me the location of him relative to the target I will get you what I can find. Ya three mojo slingers in the same park all be friendly like is not a good thing to have to deal with, comes down to which mage do you geek first, or well KO first. >>
Once Icer gets the location of the handler from Flea he will do his best to get a glance at the handler, not wanting to stare at the two he will try a few glances to see if that will get him the intel he is looking for. Mainly Magical skills and cyberware.
-
@ scarwire
From the brief time you saw the aura of the tail you clearly saw he was mundane, he had a limited amount of basic grade cyber ware less than 1 essence of ware
-
With Icers view of the two threats, one a target, one a man he might have to put to sleep over he makes sure not to make any sudden movements but does his best to completely ignore the two of them unless they move into a close proximity to Himself.
<< To: Team
I got a look at the tail seems he has no magic and a small amount of cyberware, I don't want to keep looking in there area so I'm not going to find out what the cyber tech he has unless the two get very close to me. >>
Icer is tired of not having a real matrix page to look at so he pulls up a news feed from a local Matrix sight and starts to play the local news. Well the only thing better then a fake news feed for a cover is a real one. When the news feed starts Icer grabs a black smoke out of his inside pocket and starts to drag the life out of the death stick.
-
The moment passes slowly at the time but is simultaneously brisk. It isn't long before the encounter in the park is over and the Professor is on the tram heading back to his apartment and the handler vacate the area in turn.
The weather is starting to turn and streets flicker into life as the evening draws in and the ambient light fades.
You all see a noddle bar being opened on the edge of the park the old Korean man propping up the canopy and lighting old oil lamps.
-
<Stay frosty I am going to go approach the hobo>
Lynx stretches again before walking back towards the bench home of the homeless man. "Good evening my friend. Why don't you let me buy you a bowl of noodles?" He points to the noodle cart setting up and smiles, "I would like to have a small chat."
-
The Hobo looks at you some what shocked and a lot more co-tent than before, he pauses a moment he shrugs his shoulders and stands saying
Hey your cred Omae, I'm not going to say no,
So what do you want to talk about?
...
My beautiful green home here?
My 'Pets'?
...
or something so terribly mundane.
-
"Excellent" Lynx smiles and starts walking to the noodle bar. "That man you spoke with a few minutes ago... Do you speak with him often?"
-
Flea shuffles a bit as her jacket zip digs into her sternum, the greatly magnified world tilting and rocking in her monocle display until she settles.
She does her best to scan the park, looking for anyone interested in Lynx and the Hobo's discussion.
int 3, percep 3, enhance 3, active search 3 (12d6.hits(5)=5) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4480697/) perception test, 5 hits
-
Icer keeps his head planted in his news feed not really looking at it very much more looking at the area behind the AR window. Icer sub-vocals to Lynx. Careful with the Hobo you don't want to tip our hand I see him as a major chance at being a hostile when we make our move on the mark. Icer figures there are three visible threats on this snatch job with a good chance that there might be a quick response back up team the three runners might have to deal with.
-
@ Lumen
The Hobo indulges your request:
Speak with him often?
...
Not really just every now and then he walks through here everyday
Occasionally he stops and indulges me,
I always feel better after talking to him
...
Whats you interest in him? I mean he's so good to my animal friends I'd hate to see any harm come to him.
My name is Gulliver by the way whats yours
He seems momentarily distracted as he looks over your shoulder
Oh and that's Herbert over there, he says hi.
When you look around you see nothing at first until you see a grey squirrel on a near by tree looking at you.
@Csjarrat
You clearly view the park and can see that no one is interested in Lynx and the Hobo,only the odd head turn from random passers by. The rush hours peters down and the foot traffic dies down considerably.
-
//You gentlemen appear to be clear of the tails at the moment. Happy for me to head down?//
-
"Oh no quite the opposite. I'd like to help him out but that fellow who follows him around will not allow me to. I was hoping you could pass a message to him for me." Lynx looks quizzically at the squirrel before waving. "Hello Herbert." Turning back to the hobo, "Pleasure to meet you Gulliver, I am Mikhail."
<Yes Flea you can head down now. I hope you have enough footage to plan a good exit strategy. >
-
@ Lumen
Gulliver the hobo smiles when you greet Herbert,
And nice to meet you Mikhail.
So whats this message you want me to pass on?
eh? whats that Herbert...
Very interesting....
He starts stroking his beard slowly as though contemplating something.
-
Flea finishes recording the scene with her commlink camera and pings back to Lynx:
//Yeah, I've got some film and a pretty good idea of what we'll need to do. You guys all good down there?//
-
Icer texts Flea back.
<<< To: Group
From: Icer
Every thing is arctic at my location.
END OF TEXT>>>
Icer keeps his AR view on as the news page he has up is more of a side window as he scans the area in front of himself. Not turning and giving the area a big scan since that would make him stand out like a sore thumb, Icer only scans the area in his line of site. Odds are if Lynx gets in any trouble he will be able to hear it and react soon enouph with out keeping Lynx in view at all times.
-
Lynx dodges the question of his message for now still working on the wording in his mind, "What's that?" He turns towards the squirrel then back again, "What is so interesting? I am sorry I cannot understand Herbert. What did he say?"
-
@ Lumen
Oh it's very interesting,
Herbert was just saying he though your friends were quite strange,
He says he's seen you looking round the park a lot.
What is it you are doing?
Herbert and my other friends live here, i'd hate for something to scare them away
-
"Oh no nothing like that, Herbert need not worry. I just need to have a few words with him alone, I have no interest in harming him or your friends. If you could lead him to the back gate so I could have a few words with him then we can be out of your hair." Lynx smiles and strokes his beard. *This poor guy, he seems fairly smart if odd.*
-
@ Lumen
Yeah I suppose i can do that,
I mean you've done nothing to suggest otherwise have yo?
besides Herbert like you...
So when do you want me to do it?
I mean it's not every day he takes the time to stop and talk with me.
-
Taking the noodles from the street vendor the hobo is very polite:
Many thanks, sir
He bows gently showing his appreciation. before returning to the conversation with lynx.
As quickly as his back is turned on the vendor his manner drop entirely as he starts to devour the slimy soy noodles with spicy krill bits; splashing yaki sauce all over his front form the thick soy based noodles.
Speaking between the shovel mouthfuls of noodles he says one last thing to lynx before returning to his bench and leaving you all to prepare for your next actions.
I'll get my friends to let me know when your around and i'll bring his over to you.
-
"Tomorrow morning. Many thanks friend, enjoy your noodles." Lynx smiles and waves to the hobo and his squirrel friend then heads back towards his truck. <Asset acquired. Let's wrap it up we need to meet and debrief.>
-
With the footage of the park captured on her commlink's camera and the recon done on ground level, Flea readied herself for the return journey.
Focussing internally she channeled her Qi into her muscles, feeling stronger and more ready to take on the task ahead.
Activating the Gecko grips, she hung perilously off the platform, swinging her mass over to the nearest support strut before shimmying down its length. The gecko stayed firmly connected as she descended, detaching the gloves from the wall and deactivating their adhesion temporarily with a flicker of thought.
She looked up, gauging how far up she'd been moments before and scouted the route back to the park, knowing she still had a chunk of open ground to cross.
Carefully and quietly she cut across the building site, briefly ducking behind piles of crates and lifting gear when the workers at the far end turned to face her direction.
Picking a gap in their movements, she belted full pelt for the wall, clearing it in one huge Qi-infused bound, landing on the far side of the fence with a smooth roll and conserving her momentum into a light job, making out she was nothing but another city dweller out for an evening run in the park.
//I'm back, all done. are we good to go?//
-
<<< TO: Group
From: Icer
I'm good to go, I'll fallow you guys on my bike.
<<<END OF MESSAGE>>>
Icer ends his AR view of the local news stands up gives his back a stretch then grabs a black stick of death from his inside pocket and walks over to his parked bike as he in hails his Ares produced brand of death.
-
<Affirmative. We are done here. We need to go over our plan for tomorrow. > Lynx climbs in his truck and cranks it up hoping to have some heat by the time Flea returns.
-
Flea gets a jog on, heading back to the truck.
The night had really begun to chill off, her breath gathering in short sharp clouds in front of her face as she reached the boundaries of the park.
Seeing the red lights of the truck ahead, she climbed in the passenger seat and stuck her hands in front of the heater.
Well I think that was successful on my end, what happened with your new friend back there then?
-
"Yes quite. Gulliver will deliver the target to the back gate. We need a place to construct a plan... your place or mine?"Lynx waits for the sight of Icer's bike before pulling out into traffic.
-
Neither. This guy has too much protection and we've already exposed ourselves twice. lets head somewhere public, prefereably somewhere with more than one fire escape
-
"Good point my friend. Can you pull up a good spot? Preferably one with a private room for our discussion and yes multiple exits. " Lynx drives on sticking to the posted speed limits and keeps an eye out for any signs of a tail. He couldn't help but think back to the mysterious car at the mechanic's shop earlier.
-
Icer keeps fallowing he two new runner teammates. I wonder what some of the background intel on this run is, maybe they asked the hobo mage to help since the spell slinging target wants to leave. Oh well maybe when we get to the planing stage I could find out a bit more about what I've got my self into.
-
Ok, got us a place that'll work. Jazz bar; plenty of freaks, posers and poets to hide in and hey, the music might not be that bad...maybe...
The orange light cast off her monocle lit half her face as her browser finished dumping its results before suddenly switching to a cooler green-blue as the GPS initialised and guided them on their way
//message:: reservation needed. Booth for three occupants, 30 minutes. Name:Saito //
-
Lynx stares at Flea for a second, "The bar will work but all music made after 2049 is bad. That is ok this is not a social visit anyways. " He then returns his attention to the road while updating Icer.
<Icer we are heading to a club for some public privacy. Follow us, it should not be far. >
-
...
//message:: reservation needed. Booth for three occupants, 30 minutes. Name:Saito //
You get an immediate response form the node:
// Automatic response ::
Reservation confirmed:
Booth 3 -Stage left
Features
-- Booth service
-- Privacy Screen
-- Holo projector
Reservation Name:
Saito
The traffic is light on the streets the lull after rush hour but before the evening brush begins.
The Jazz bar is an eclectic mix of old school, retro and modern chic. The clean line of plas-crete pillars with faded brickwork between, The door is a simple brass and wood design with obscure glass in the upper portion. As you open the door their is a simple waiting room inside with an antique greeting podium. a simple bench on either side upholstered in plush red velvet. the simple plastered walls are decorated with some simple white neon scones and an intricate painted ivy pattern.
Approaching the podium a holographic greeter flickers into existence a simple image of a 1950's butler dressed impeccably with a full tuxedo.
Recognizing your comm code as your walk in the greeter refers to you directly
Welcome 'Saito' your booth is ready.
We hope you enjoy your time tonight at 'the scarlet lapel's famous open mic night.
Would you like to follow me?
The projection starts to walk toward the bar down a small flight of stairs and through a set of scarlet silk curtains that draw automatically to allow the projection inside, the floor inside is a simple black lacquered pine and inside there is a circular stage with the bar heading off towards the read of the space. the booths are dotted around the edge of the room tables in the floor space between and a bench around the raised stage.
On the stage there are two ork's dressed in black setting up some audio equipment and a young woman is sorting out glasses behind the bar while her male colleague is pouring a glass of wine for a customer. the place is quite quiet for now with only a few other parties in. there is some subtle 20's jazz playing in the back ground.
When you arrive at the booth the greeter projection shows an arm as the curtains reveal the booth. It has the same kind of scarlet silk curtains and red velvet plush benches as the entrance lobby, they surrounding a central walnut table and fake ivy adorns the walls slightly masking the pale glow from where a brass candelabra hangs on the wall. in the center of the table is holo projector.
As you take your seats its not long before the young woman from behind the bar come to get your order. She looks barely old enough to work and is dressed in a simple short black shirt and tight fitting white shirt with a red silk scarf.
Good evening gents,
My name is Georgia and I'll be your server this evening, if you need anything just push the button on the table and I'll be right over
In the mean time can I get you any drinks?
-
Flea frowns at the waitress as she addresses the group "gents", clearly Flea didn't look her best after her excursion up the side of a half finished building.
Her stomach was beginning to rumble, it had been a long time since breakfast.
Yes, I'd love a glass of white wine. Tell me, are you still serving food?
-
The waitress suddenly realises her mistake seeing the frown on flea's face and is very apologetic blushing as her faux pa
Sorry and lady,
One white wine, and yes food is still available; food is always available to our privileged customers.
the menu is available on the holo screen.
-
thanks, put these on the tab for the table.
Flea takes the wine and follows the boys over to the table, getting settled at the back of the booth.
you guys hungry? flea flicks through the holo menu feeling more hungry than ever.
-
Lynx smiles wide at the mention of food and pats his belly, "Yes famished!" He takes a seat next to flea then scrolls through the holo menu looking for something filling but cheap. He flashes the waitress a big smile, "Good evening Georgia. I will start with a vodka tonic please. Thank you."
-
Taking care to appease you all the waitress is very attentive in meeting your needs and is prompt but not obtrusive as she monitors your table.
After about 20 minutes the crowd starts to grow until the places is packed and gets quite noisy, when you see the owner getting on the stage. He is a very tall and skinny elf man who is both slimy and charming simultaneously, this long flowing coat flutters as he leaps on stage and takes the mic from the poised stand and heralds the crowd with a bold and dominant voice expressing his flamboyant style quite aptly.
Good Evening everyone,
and welcome to the one and only Scarlet Lapel...
...tonight your in for a special treat with our monthly open mic night.
We have some regulars and some ...
... irregulars!
But talented artists all of them.
So without further ado can I welcome to the stage...
"Shadow Land"
Descending from the stage the owner slinks his way behind the bar to watch the act as a small band come onto the stage being led by a small human looking ork female singer.
-
Flea orders up a gazpacho to start and the house special Lasagne for a main and sits back with the cold glass of wine, suddenly conscious of the muck and debris of the day's exertion on her jeans and jacket as more patrons came in.
She tucks into the soup and the home cooked bread, admiring the decor and making small talk with the boys for a while before matters turned back to business.
Flea hit the privacy screen as the mains arrived.
So, what happened with the hobo then?
-
Lynx eyes the menu suspiciously but decides to follow Flea's example and order the lasagne as well. "Oh you mean Gulliver. He seems like a fine fellow other than when whatever illness it is he has got is ravaging his body. He claims to be friends with the animals of the park. Gulliver agreed to catch the Professor's attention and try to lead him to the back gate. The tails should keep on walking just like they did today to avoid suspicion, so as long as the Professor is willing to indulge him for a moment he could be a big help. Now as long as the Professor is as willing as we were told it should all go very smoothly."
He leans back and takes a long sip from his drink, "I will meet him at the back gate and we get in the van. What do you have footage wise? Any signs of other tails?"
-
The waitress notes your decision for privacy as the food is delivered remaining silent and avoiding eye contact. the handover of the food is so seamless and practiced that it's like a strange ballet.
-
------Time: Walking in to bar---
As Icer enters the pub he decides to start checking his surrounds first for a scan of the people fallowed by a scan for any exit signs. Icer continues to scan the area as he fallows his two new teammates to their booth.
------TIme: Waitress taking orders----
As the two other team members are ordering there drinks Icer looks over the menu, then side eyeballs the two teammembers These two would want to poison me would they.... They do seem to have a run I'm now part of..... Trying to get a truck would have turned south my now if they wanted me out of the picture....... As Icers mind slips through ideas of betrayal from these two calm looking runners. .... IF they are pros you wouldn't see it coming very easily. Icer decides to play the menu a little safe. After the other two have gotten their orders Icer places his. I'll take a Black Coffee. Hoping the coffee might not be soycafe. And a Spaghetti with with the light cheese and now sauce. I'll eat slow and sip as I go hopefully if it is druged the effects will start before I down too much of it.... Oh I hope so. Not knowing for sure Icer asks the waitress Does this Establishment allow for smoking?
-------Time: Present (After Lynx's comment)----
Ok this makes more sense the mark seems to want to leave their current employer. Icer eyeballs his coffee mug then takes another small sip of the black liquid hoping death will not fallow the liquid down his throat.
-
@ Scawire
You don't notice anything standing out especially as you look out other than the obviousness of the decor and the evening.
The waitress looks at you with a mild discontent and scolding glare as she eye-balls you
Sir what you do in your booth is your business not ours... delivered with a stale smile.
The food and drink is warm and good, unfortunately it is not much more than the usual soy caff but is flavored very well.
Thankfully you have not been poisoned...
-
Lynx nurses his Vodka tonic while looking around the bar. Once the food arrives he smiles and nods to the waitress then takes a deep breath over the plate, taking in the aroma. Shortly after he begins to devour the food, soy knockoff or not. Within minutes the plate has been picked clean and he whipes down his bushy beard to remove any escaped food or sauce.
Then he sets eyes on Icer, "Tell me again what you saw of Gulliver's magical abilities. Do you think it is possible he could actually speak with the animals?"
-
ICER has been slowly eating his food when asked about the mage. what i know is in magic it is possible to craft a spell to talk to animals. As for out parkland mage I'm not sure if he is but from a tactical stand point I would lean towards with ever of the two is tactically a disadvantage to us. Also since our target heals this parkland mage it would be wise to find some plan on how we keep healing him or our target might not leave with us until we can assure him it will be taken care of. Also remember our target is a stronger mage then me with that ICER put another spoon of soy Noddles in his mouth.
-
Ok, that's pretty interesting. Any chance you can use magic to send him a message of some sort? Did you find out if his tail is a mage or not?
-
Icer thinks about the question as he sips at his soy-cafe. Might be able to send him a message. One way I could he would have to be looking at astral space at the time the watcher is there to give him the message, other wise the watcher would be spotted if it crosses over to the meat world. As for the tail he didn't seem to have any magical abilities but there were cyber holes in his aura but they where very minor. Icer lights a smoke and starts puffing away as he has stalled in eating of a short smoke break.
-
Lynx strokes his beard, "Perhaps this is worth a shot. How often does one look astrally? Maybe he would do it to look at Gulliver..." He downs the rest of his Vodka tonic and flicks through the AR menu to order another.
-
Icer decides no odd feeling has come over him with his picking at his food so he decides to dive right in now. Shoveling in some of his spaghetti to chew on as his mind thinks for a second how to get his watcher to work. Swallowing his mouth full then Icer adds Well the watcher could work you would have to have a simple message but I think it might work..... Since it might not work best we have both a plan for if it works and also one if it doesn't work. Icer waits to hear what the team wants done with the watcher. Also Icer waits to see what the team wants to do about the health of the hobo. They might have a contact or two that could help this homeless mage out since that I'm sure will come up with our rescue of this Powerful Corp Mage. No way he heals him regularly to leave him flapping in the wind. Icer keeps chowing down on his spaghetti as he waits to see what the two want to do on these topics.
-
Flea loads the footage she got, zooming it in slightly to show the details.
She realises that even though they'd got a private booth, none of them really had had their guard up since arrival. She made sure to get a good look around as she took a sip of her drink, looking for anyone that was a little too interested.
-
@Csjarrat
Your view of the bar and the its crowd of devoted music lovers doesn't show you any sign of anyone interested in you or your booth at all except your loyal waitress.
The video footage of the professor and the park journey shows there was only the one tail on the professor.
-
Lynx downs his vodka tonic and looks around, "Well if there is nothing more to discuss I suggest we get some sleep. We have an early day tomorrow. Flea you can meet me at my place and stay with the van. Icer it would probably be better to have your bike, in case we need assistance with the getaway. Any questions? "
-
Icer downs a shot of soy cafe. I'm ok with the plan, we could go from the start to the end once through so we all got a good grip of what we are doing. Icer looks around the room to see that no one is very close to the three. So where talking get the target to a certain area for an extraction. Other then that I'm not to clear what the plan is. Do you want to try and get a watcher to give him a message or just the hobo. Icer is glad he got the all clear to light up in this place he pulls out a smoke and guns three quick deep drags off the kill in a small package then asks. If it is ok with you to a quick start to finish plan review would be an aid to me.
-
Ok, so Plan A: we get to the park and set the Van up nearby. we get a message to the prof via your mojo and he comes willingly. we'll have to neutralise the bodyguard swiftly. We drive like mad to the RVP.
Plan B: Magic fails or Prof has a change of heart: Subdue the prof and the bodyguard and drag the prof to the van. drive like crazy to the RVP
Plan C: Both plans fail; let the johnson know and then get the fuck out of town for a while
-
Lynx nods as Flea speaks, "Yes I believe that covers the plan. Though it brings us to another issue. If we do need to subdue one or more individuals in broad daylight i would prefer it be as subtle as possible. That being said my typical methods are anything but. Gunfire or a fistfight is bound to draw attention. It will likely not last long but perhaps we should go ahead and discuss the quickest way to subdue a target. "
-
Icer, you got any mojo that would fit the bill? Otherwise I'm thinking gel rounds to the head
-
"Stick and shock is more effective and generally less messy. I have fair supply for pistols if you need a clip for the mission. "
-
I need a lighter calibre for my machine pistol. I'll hit up a friend of mine and see if he can fix me up.
<<Message to:: Joey>>//Joey, its Flea. How's it going? I need a couple of clips of stick and shock for first thing tomorrow. You got anything that would fit a TMP?//
-
Icer is glade to hear the plan laid out for him it makes him picture what they are going to do a lot better. Mojo.... Mojo.... Mojo.... Ya that Icer drags on his Ares Black Cig as he run though a few ideas. Well I do have a spell that will stun a person out cold. That spell would work hand in hand with stick n shock or gel rounds. I also could summon one spirit to aid us give him that spell to be extra muscle, or I could give the helper spirit another spell for variety. Say something like my vehicle mask spell so when driving away the spirit could help change the look of both our rides. You two are paying the bill so what one do you think. I like the vehicle mask, I can drive without having to have too much Mojo on the mind. Well now the team seem to have a road map of a plan in front of Icer so he can start to run down his spells and spirits to find a cocktail of Mojo to help the group out.
-
"Yes yes that is perfect. Have your spirit change the look of our vehicles once we have broken line of sight with any pursuers. That way we can blend in with traffic while they are chasing the wrong van. Sneaky sneaky mages." Lynx smiles obviously pleased with Icer's suggestion.
-
Even better, I'll drink to that
Flea raises her glass of wine as a toast, happy that they'd got a decent plan in place
-
@ Csjarrat
It's not long before Joey gets back to you
<Incoming message: Joey/
Hoi Chummer,
I don't have any in stock right....
But I have a source that I exploit to fill your order.
Short turnaround is gonna cost a little more than usual and he only deals by the box.
It'll be ¥1000. For the 100 round box and 2 mags.
If your interested swing by the warehouse tomorrow morning.
/End of message>
-
//Hoi Joey, thanks for the swift reply. Thing is, I only need a couple clips, if you're out of stock do you wanna split the goods 50/50?//
-
Icer raises his glass to show his support to the team then downs the last of his soy-cafe. I wish I could get the nuyen up front to pay of the job I dropped but best not push my luck these two might give me a way to work the shadows and for some reason that is where my heart and soul is pulling me to.
-
@Csjarrat
<incoming message: Joey/
I'm sure we can to some sort of arrangement ...
we'll discuss it more in the morning
I'll get on to my source to get the stock in.
BTW don;t be late I've got a large order due in later i the day and need some time to prep the warehouse.
Enjoy your evening Flea.
/End of message>
-
Lynx frowns at his empty class but raises it to meet the toast regardless. "Excellent! Then I think we are set. If there is nothing else, I believe I will take my leave."
-
As the evening draws out the bands come and go and night slowly calms down as people start to leave. before long you all decide it's best you go home and get some rest before the joys that tomorrow will bring.
It's a calm and restful night in Moscow a light breeze, clear sky and a soft shining light from the full moon.
As the morning light rises it brings with the same clear stillness of the night that had passed.
@Lumen
You are rudely awoken at the crack of dawn by a loud banging on your front door.
-
Training kicks in and Lynx sits bolt upright in his cot clutching one of his Ares Predators at the sound of knocking on his door. He quickly throws on his overcoat and heads to the door, then peeks through the peephole. *There had best be good reason for such an early unexpected visitor.*
-
@ Lumen
As you peek through the peephole you see two men dressed in cheap suits banging on the front.
After several raps on the door you hear a man shouting at you.
Open Up Man,
We know your in there there's no point hiding.
All we want is a friendly talk.
Are you willing to let us in or do we need to bash the door down?
-
Flea's alarm blares out stupidly early, stirring her from a particularly vivid dream.
She sets to her morning regime, hitting the shower while the soyprocessor churned out her breakfast.
She munched down the cereal-substitute and stared out the window half-dressed, mentally preparing herself for the hit later on.
It was still pitch black outside, service drones doing the early morning refuse collections and a few early rising wage slaves hit the pavements as they got their morning run in, but the street was reasonably lifeless, probably remaining that way for a few hours yet.
Donning her armoured kit, she suited up, switched her work gear to "wireless off" and jumped on the bike, heading over to the meet with Joey.
-
@ Lumen
As you continue to peer through the peephole examining the gentlemen that have rudely awakened you, you notice the distinctive bulge in the armpit that tells you instantly that these men are armed the way they hold them selves is experienced but shaky, they clearly don't want to be here. You can see a car in the background too plain and generic to belong to this neck of the woods. deigned to blend into down town not 'down-town'. as one man swings round and you see in side his jacket you can see they are armed with HK Urban Combat SMG and HK Urban Fighter heavy pistols.
The last glimpse is what looks like a LEO (Law Enforcement Officer) badge on their belts.
You realize immediately given their shouting that it seems odd that they haven't identified themselves.
@ Csjarrat
The streets are practically empty as you head to Joey's warehouse when you get there you see a team of men loading a large lorry with crates.
The shutter doors are open and you can clearly see the warehouse is practically empty and is getting emptier by the minute as the team continue their work. Joey is lent against the door smoking a cigarette and talking to someone on his comm.
As he sees you coming he ends his call promptly. before turning to the team at work and whistling loudly before yelling
Eh lads, take five and grab some soy.
He then turns to you and addresses you calming while stubbing out his smoke.
Hello Flea,
Shall I show you your good my dear?
Clearly gesturing to the open doorway.
-
Flea removes her helmet, powers down the bike and waves at joey to catch his attention
-
Lynx pads his armored jacket, confirming the other predator rested in it's concealed holster. *This does not look good. If these officers were here for a legitimate reason they would have identified themselves. Two on one are never good odds...*
He lets out a loud grown as if he'd just awoken, "Who are you? What do you want?"
-
@ Lumen
Who are we,
We are the guys you don't want to mess with, now open up we need to talk through some business with you.
Now are you going to open up or what?
@Csjarrat
Waving back Joey is calm and composed as he shows you inside.
As you walk into the ware-house you see there are only a few crate left here and there. and the removal crew are in the office at the other end of the building making a brew.
There is an upturned empty crate and two fold out chair just inside the door waiting. Joey walks in letting you follow and takes a seat in one of the chairs.
So your merchandise arrived late last night, i got the last crate available at short notice.
As you can see I've been having a small reorganize.
The goods I have for you are here
He pulls an ammo bin out of the upturned storage and places a couple of spare clips on top.
I know you said you only wanted a few clips but right now i have some big orders due and I won;t be able to offload these quickly. i will be able to do you a deal though i can give you the full bin for a discounted price.
I mean you are a good customer after all.
-
how good a deal are we talking?
-
*Fuck I do not have time to deal with some crooked LEOs.* He pauses for a second weighing the time it would take to dispose of two bodies against the time it would take to get these guys along their way. Lynx lets out a small sigh and tucks his predator back into the concealed holster within his jacket. *I can not tell if I am getting soft or just old...* From his coat pocket he pulls out his normal black beanie to cover his ears, then initiates the recording sequence in his cybereyes.
Lynx cracks the door just wide enough to stick his head through, his cold robotic eyes clearly looking the officers up and down. Then in a instant his normal big goofy grin floods his face and he says, quite louder than necessary, "Oh good morning officers! Is there something I can help you with?" It was probably a bad idea but Lynx knew the walls were paper thin and his deep voice was not so easily muffled. *Let us hope you have more to hide than I.*
-
ICER leaves the meeting with his two other runners wishing that he got nuyen up front to pay off the mission to grab the wheels. well better get better at negotiations. Icer can't help but think that he is in for a rough ride. best make sure no one is tailing me I only have two pads and someone might be trying to burn them out. Icer finds a place to circle a block for a few minutes to see if he can spot anyone on his six. If he pulls away he will repeat this process a few more time before heading home.
-
@ Csjarrat
We're talking a good deal, all 250 rounds and the spare clips for ¥1500
However if you are so insistent of just the two clips the 60 rounds and clips will be ¥500
@Lumen
Good morning SIr,
We need to talk you about a murder. can we come in?
Your cyber eyes pick up a clear view of their 'badges' they are clearly little more than a prop designed to make sucker do things for them.
@Scawire
As you circle the block you notice nothing out of the ordinary no-one is following you tonight.
-
Icer heads home and hits his bed after double checking that all the locks are doing their job. If he sleeps through the night he will wake up to a low grade soy cafe and a few death sticks to keep his edge about him. Once he has kicked the sleep out of himself with caffeine and nicotine, he heads to Comm link "Snow Hawk" to send his agent "Net Wolf" on a dive into the 'trix for magic related news. Hope there is some buzz in the magic for me to check out. Icer also checks the local news to see whats going down in his part of the world.
-
"I believe I can answer your questions from here. Now what is this about a murder? I am happy to help if I am able." Lynx continues to eye the two 'officers' watching them closely for any signs this may actually turn violent.
-
@ Lumen
They seem frustrated and raise their voices to match yours.
Sit this is really a conversation to have indoors,
If you aren't willing to open up now we will be forced to come back with a warrant!
Now how do you want to play this?
You clearly hear shuffling in the apartment next door and a beat up truck screams in with heavily armed men filling the back.
they don't hesitate to introduce themselves.
Get the hell outta here PIG
This is our town...
@ Scawire
Netwolf fetches a few stories for you to review:
The first is simple local fluff piece about how good Evo are and their new community regeneration projects.
The second is a piece about some gang violence and how the crime in city has taken a turn for the worse, reminiscing about the good old days of civilized criminals.
The third is the really interesting one, it is about some recent, very promising advances in the research at the local university. The magic department in conjunction with the Evo supported medical department have been making great progress in the field of radiation therapies. However due to various corporate laws they have hit a road block due a conflict of interest with one of the independent researchers.
-
Alright, I'll stick with the two clips. I really haven't got a use for any more than that. Thanks Joey, how you been anyways?
-
@Csjarrat
Fair enough two clips it is, so ¥500 when you can.
I've been good thanks flea, thanks for asking.
As you can see business is good very good in fact i could really do with a break but no rest for the wicked and all that.
He keeps looking over towards the workmen while they drink their soycaf drinks.
-
Here's 250 now, I'll square you up with the rest when I get paid for this job yeah?
-
Yeah that's cool.
Anyway I ought to go kick those goons over there back into action.
Hope your job goes well.
Getting up he takes a big toke of his cigar and strides across the nearly empty warehouse towards the crew of moving men.
-
"I would hate to inconvenience you by insisting that you follow procedure... However it seems those fellows may have some pertinent information for you. Perhaps on assaulting an officer... If there is nothing else I will be taking cover now. Have a nice day!"
With that Lynx slams the door, throws the lock and hits the floor. *Hopefully this will resolve itself quickly and I will not be delayed. *
-
@ Lumen
it isn't long before these guys realize it was a big mistake to impersonate LEO's in this neighborhood. The ganger barely give them time to turn round before unloading on them, they aim poor you hear the impact of flachette rounds on your front door and the heavy feet of the men running back for their car.
Frack this, Iin't getting geeks for this piece of ...
The gun fire continues as the men run for their car before you hear the screeching of tires as the fight becomes a chase.
The morning had truly arrived in the hood.
-
Sorry Joey, I'll let you crack on. Catch up soon with a beer yeah?
//Morning, you guys up and doing? got a couple clips of stick and shock and I'm en-route to yours now Lynx//
-
Lynx hops up and brushes himself off, quite pleased the local gang had solved his problem for him. Just then Flea's message pops up and he responds << Up? Affirmative. Doing... well that was taken care of for me hahahaha. A story for later. I will put on the soykaf Flea. Icer sound off. Are you ready for this Kid?>>
Lynx heads into the kitchen to set the soykaf machine. A quick, cold shower then time to get dressed. The full body suit helps warm him up. He pours two cups of soykaf and plops down in his old warn out recliner to run diagnostics on his ware.
-
@ Csjarrat
A tall frosty one is a good idea anyday as far as i'm concerned
joey calls out to you as he strides across the empty space.
-
She slips her helmet back on, stashes the clips in her jacket and climbs back on the bike, its engine purring as she smoothly accelerated up to the speed limit.
It was still damn early and the traffic was light. She made good time on the way over to Lynx's, arriving with plenty of time to spare before they needed to make the hit
-
Icer was reading over his news reports when Lynx sends a quick message his way. << Voice>> Ya I'm up so where do we want to meet at. <<End>> Icer knows his spirit will only last until then sun goes down but that should keep him by Icers side long enouph to do the run at hand. Icer pauses for a second and focuses his will so he can mystically link his will power into the spirit realms where he puts out a mystical request for aid by a Walking Man Spirit with the spell knowledge of Vehicle Masking.
-
With the short break in the conversation Icer was able to call forth a Man Spirit from the Spirit Realms. Hopefully this Spirit could cover the escape of the group.
Hey Spirit buddy what happens to be your name I should address you as. As Icer starts his intros to the Spirit he grabs an Ares Black Smoke out of it's pack and fires it up. If the team wants a watcher I best be making one of them closer to snatch time.
-
Lynx greets Flea at his now flechette riddled door and welcomes her inside. He points to the other mug, "That one is yours. Just need to do a final weapons check then I will be ready." He proceeds to inspecting his weapons, checking the predators and ak's chamber, clip, and accessories. "So should we just have the kid meet us at the park?"
-
Flea looks at the impact marks on the doorway, more than a little concerned
Shit Lynx, rough night?
-
"Rough morning for some poor bastards. Two men showed up impersonating LEOs and wanted to ask me some questions about a murder, probably my own. Unfortunately for them the local hoods do not like officers in their neighborhood, fake or not. I will probably need to stay somewhere else for a while."
-
Oh shit, they probably tagged the truck's plates when we did our recon and hacking visit the other night. The job is likely to be a bust now, they'll be waiting for us. FUCK!
Flea rubbed her head in frustration
What are we gonna do now?
-
"Calm yourself Flea. It's just as likely that those guys were the ones staking out the garage. If some bearded loud mouth came in and bungled my job I would send a few guys to teach him not to. Either way I suppose we will see." Lynx wraps up his inspection and tucks the predators into his jacket.
-
Alright, I'm ready when you are. If you need to bed down somewhere tonight you're welcome to use the sofa at mine.
-
"I appreciate the offer my friend, I may take you up on that. Yes let us get started, no time to worry about those thugs now."
Lynx stuffs his ak and other extra equipment in a duffle and shoulders it. To the team, <Ok Icer we are ready. Meet us at the back gate of the park in one hour. Be prepared to cause a distraction at a moments notice. See you there.>
He then heads out to the van uncovering it and starting the engine.
-
<< To: Lynx>> Ok I'm heading out see you there. Icer grabs his gear and heads for his bike. Distraction most of the time I would use a spirit to do that but I got a spirit more for a get away. Well lets start thinking on the drive over what I could do. Icer kills his smoke he was gunning as he get on his Racing Bike. Then heads to the meeting.
-
Flea hops up into the cab of the van, slotting the seatbelt home with a satisfying *clunk*.
She checks her TMP's chamber and loads a clip, flashing Lynx an apprehensive smile. Ok, lets go.
-
As you meet at the gate the rush hour is just about starting and the foot traffic through the park is building up.
the professor is due any minute.....
[Perception checks please.]
-
It's not long before you spot the professor despite the heavy foot traffic he can't evade your steely gaze, there is no sign of his 'usual escorts' and the professor is clearly aware of this and is obviously on edge not sure what is going on.
Your hermit friend is sat in his usual spot feeding the squirrels waiting patiently to deliver your message to the professor. As the professor approaches they talk a while before the hermit points over to the gate where you are waiting. Given the ambient noise you aren't able to hear the conversation.
@Csjarrat & Scawire
You know why you can't see the handlers they have decided to use the perch that you had been using previously your actions are being watched. you also notice a few clips on the trid screen surrounding the area, it clearly shows a police chase underway. and by the looks of the street it is heading your way, which is confirmed by the feint sound of sirens in the distance.
There are four vehicles in the chase, one is a big SUV and is being shot at by some gangers in a pickup, they are being followed by two police vehicles making sure it stays under control but at the same time keeping their distance.
-
Lynx, they're on to us. They're up in the perch I used yesterday
-
"Fuck. That means they saw Gulliver point. Do you remember any blind spots from that vantage point? Or better yet any way you could block the spotter's communications? We are going to have to think of something quick."
Lynx's face scrunches with concern. *If we have to use the kid's distraction for a spotter that limits our getaway options. *
-
Icer takes note of the eyes up high and starts to run through plan ideas on how to get out of this with as few bullet holes as possible. I just wish I had more memories of runs to pull from to figure this out with. Icer being new to the team and more of the grunt taking orders he waits to see what the group decides.
-
No, It was a pretty good vantage point, the view was obscured slightly by the foliage, but any decent imaging kit can account for that.
Looking at the screens, an idea popped into her head
If that chase is heading where I think it is heading, then it might just give us a few seconds of distraction
-
"Chase?" Lynx had been too focused on the target to notice the trid displays but now finally takes notice. He strokes his beard, "That could work. What are you thinking? I doubt the chase alone will be enough to distract them from their charge. Or if we move quickly we could use the chase to help cover our escape. "
-
Personally I'd rather abort. We've lost the element of surprise. They've got the high ground and no doubt have people placed in the park waiting for us. This has got "gangfuck" written all over it, pardon my french.
The chase might provide a momentary distraction, enough maybe to cover the ground to get to him but probably not enough to do the full job and get out of here. Now our cover is blown, what's the harm in sending him a message through Icer's mojo, or maybe I could leave something for him on his home node or commlink?
-
Lynx lets out a long sigh, "I hate to admit it but you are right my friend, at this point we should abort. The kid said he would have to be looking for it to get the mojo message so we go for the tech solution. Leave him a message, something cryptic." He wracks his brain trying to think of a way to salvage the mission without waiting days for the heat to die down, "Maybe we could approach at the university. Better legit security may keep the tails a bit further back."
To Icer <Just hang tight kid. We are on standby. >
-
Ok, lets go for a drive, see if we pick up any tails. Take a pretty obscure route, nowhere near the University to begin with
Flea pulls up an AR terminal as Lynx pulls the van away smoothly.
She calls up her username file and attempts to connect to the Prof's node using the credentials she scored on the previous run out.
Please work, please work!
-
"Affirmative." Lynx waits for an opening in traffic and pulls out heading the opposite direction of the university. "We need to tell the kid something but I do not trust communications when we are so clearly being watched. Heh guess we shall see how he reacts for now."
-
Hang on, I'm going to set up a new encrypted channel and shut down our last one
Flea opens up her Encryption suite and adds Icer + Lynx to the channel
9d6.hits(5)=4 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4550442/) Ewar 3, encrypt 6 with 4 hits
<<Icer>>//We're heading out, we've been rumbled. Keep close and watch for tails//
She leaves the channel open for a 30 seconds, enough for a quick reply but hopefully not long enough for it to be decrypted and intercepted before closing it down again
-
Icer puts on his bike helmet and fallows Flea and Lynx on the drive away from the park. Well that is a downer I guess I have to wait a bit longer for my pay check. Icer keeps behind his two new runner teammates. This best only be a postponement to the mission I need the nuyen to buy my way out of the last run that these guys convinced me to drop.
-
Shutting down the comms channel, Flea pays attention to the rear view sensors; looking for anyone tailing their route
-
You drive away moments before the chase screams by... guns blazing!
fortunately they are too busy with each other to be any kind of distraction to you.
not long after leaving you see the professor appear at the gate... it seems the message had the desired effect, shame about the and timing of the rest of the world.
@Lynx
You instantly recognize the vehicles in the chase as they drive by as the friend form in front of your apartment earlier. it seems the gangers have the upper hand and the Leos are happy not to interfere while it is contained.
-
Lynx can't help but bust out laughing as he sees the SUV speed by. "Hey those are the assholes who remodeled my door this morning. Glad to see those gangers are giving them hell! I am thinking they work for the kid's former employer but I also would rather not find out."
-
@Csjarrat
As you check your comm link for the professors commlink, the node is easily seen. Publicly broadcasting, he is a legal citizen after all.
\\Node ID found:
111.2314.089.537.015
- Prof Piedsky
- Russian Citizen
Do you wish to connect with user?
-
Icer keeps fallowing the his fellow runners hoping this job has not gone south.
-
Flea looks over to Lynx;
My credentials are still valid on his commlink. Shall I give him a call or maybe leave a file with instructions on his comm?
-
"Instructions? Do you have a plan? Since we have no recon on the university it may be better to try talking to him. He knows his tails better than we do. Perhaps he can tell us when and where he can elude them long enough for us to make the grab."
-
Yeah, I was thinking of giving him a call, maybe organise a quick drive-by pickup outside of the university this evening. If he's willing and co-operative then we can ditch the van now we know our cover is blown. If he's as willing to go as we think he is then we won't need the van to keep him subdued in, we could get him in your truck or on the back of my bike.
-
"It is worth a shot my friend. I do not see how it could hurt at this point. Damn, we were so close! Go ahead and make the call. If we do not need the van anymore then I would rather return it soon." Lynx shakes his head and keeps his eyes on the traffic ahead.
-
Icer keeps fallowing the two runners woundering. This best not have been a set up on me. These two have a run then its blown right before we make the snatch. Humm ????? Icer keeps his mind racing with what to do if these was all a set up. I know one hard building location they went to. I have an astral viewing of their auras. The dark side of the Shadows best not be trying to play me a fool.
-
Spotting a small convenience shop, Flea directs Lynx to pull over for a second whilst she dashed inside and picked up a disposable commlink.
Flea connects to the device with her hacked credentials, rummaging into his documents folder and creating a new one:
Professor, we're told you'd like to improve your current working conditions. We'd like to arrange an exit for you and can provide you with safe passage. However we need you to work with us and let us know the safest time and location. Please call me on the attached commcode <details attached>
She sets a reminder for 10 minutes time with the link there to her newly created file and adds the commcode to his phonebook under the name "CALL ME".
Disconnecting, she powers up the burner commlink and keeps an eye on the rear view sensors and passing traffic.
I've left him a note on his commlink and a system reminder for him to check it in ten minutes. The file says to call on the burner's commcode. Hopefully he's as willing as we've been led to believe.
-
After ten minutes the burner comm buzzes with a cheap tacky ringtone as you answer the professor is on the other end waiting...
I don't know who the heck this is or if this is ...
if this is a joke i swear...
SO WHO ARE YOU?
-
ICER fallows the two ?teammates? To a shop that flea enters. ICER parks his bike so he can see the other two but the same time ICER starts scanning the area to see if anyone looks in the mood to send lead in his direction. Not sure of these two new guys ICER tries to keep his mouth shut on his abilities. So far the found a vehicle mask spell spirits and watchers. ICER waits at his bike for a second then walks over to the two.taking off his helmet Icer lights up his Aresblacks, oh how Icer loves his black sticks of necro mist, these just to seem to haze the days with bliss.
When Icer gets to the other runners rides he decides to ask, so wwhat's the plans now, anything I can do to help?
-
I'm part of a team of professionals that specialise in arranging safe passage for those seeking to effect a change in their employer. I assure you this is no joke.
A third party is very interested in arranging for your employment on better terms than you are currently under, our job is to get you to him safely. We need to act quickly. When is your security detail at its lowest?
-
Lynx motions for Icer to come closer and he fills him in while keeping quiet, "The pick up at the park was compromised. She is working on Plan B now. I am not sure there is much we can help with at this point. Just stay alert for now. Hey can you change the appearance of a man like you can a vehicle? That could come in handy later."
-
Icer drags on his smoke as he hears what the plan is. Not really wanting to let Lynx know his spell array, Icer fights for a second mentally then tell him. Ya I got a spell that can do that, thing is keeping too many spells going at one time kind of sidelines all my other abilities since keeping spells running is a mental drain. Icer uses the last of his smoke to light another one. Well smoking his chain of cigs Icer is a bit happier that this run has not gone south... well ok it has a bit... at least it hasn't gone south really badly.
-
The professor pauses on the lien for a moment taking in your words.
A team you say....
Well if that's the team that has been watching the park, your on the right lines.
My security seems to be having a bad day...
As the car chase that is on the news today is one of theirs.
The only areas of weakness in their security as far as i can see are the park and my lab at the university as they can't get access to my building.
Of course of your as good as you seem to think you are then the campus security shouldn't be an issue for you.
I have a lab session this evening with some of my PhD students, the session is due to start at 8pm.
I should be able to slip out un-noticed.
-
Lynx looks to Flea expectantly, "Well?"
-
//Ok, we'll see you at eight. Where is the best place on campus to pick you up?//
Flea gives Lynx the thumbs up as she continues the conversation in AR, dictating her thoughts into conversation
-
The furthest I can get from the lab without being detected by security is the cafeteria on the same floor.
After than I can't guarantee anything so you will need to take it from there.
I know there are wards on every level to track the astral movements on site. and there is are security guard on patrol of the campus at that time of day.
I need to get off the call now before the handlers suspect something ...
The call disconnects abruptly as you hear the phone rustling in his pocket briefly.
-
Icer looks over the two as one seems to be busy else wear it seems. If these guys tell me the run is off I'm not going to be too pleased. Not sure if I can grab that van from them either they both seem skilled that is for sure. Icer drags back some mist of death into his already blackened lungs then ex-hails. Crazy stuff happens in the shadows, this might have gone south. I hope not lets just wait and see. Icer makes sure to give himself some space between these two skilled runners in case things turn bad fast.
-
Powering the burner link down, she pivots in her seat to Lynx
He's willing, he wants to leave. The best opportunity we have is at 8pm tonight from his seminar room. Campus security has decent coverage but he reckons the best place to pick him up will be from the cafeteria near his lab.
It sounds like they've got good magical security; wards on every level so it's gonna be hard for me and Icer to get in without pinging their wage-mages. What you reckon?
-
Lynx smiles, "Ah finally some good news. Campus security should not be a problem as long as I have a reasonable excuse for being in the cafeteria. Though some student credentials or a visitors pass would help greatly. I do not mind going in alone as long as we have secure communications. However we need an extraction plan. How close can we get a vehicle to this cafeteria? "
-
That's what we need to figure out today. How we looking for tails?
-
"I didn't spot any on the way. Let us go, quickly."
Lynx turns to Icer, "Alright, I hope you were paying attention. We're moving on to Plan B, follow us. You may not be able to enter but we'll need your eyes."
He fires up thr old truck and waits for Icer to mount his bike.
-
Icer bows at Lynx. Ya I copy that. Icer kills his smoke in a pocket ash tray then moves to his bike and helmets up and fallows the two runners. Well lets see what this school for higher learning has in store for me. Hope a nuyen payday.
-
I'm going to see what I can get on the University whilst you drive
Sitting back in the seat, Flea entered hotsim and searched for the University's node.
-
@ Csjarrat
The university is a public place and public places and building mean public records... you find a standard blue print for the building and some basic maps from the university note.
A quick examination of the document shows that the cafeteria in the professors building is on the first floor and his lab is on the 4th.
The journey towards the university campus is uneventful, the city is starting to settle into the weekday 8-6 as the pitiful wage-slaves toil away until the thumbs of their masters.
As you arrive at the campus the bustling environment is a stark contrast to the rets of the city with a busy hive of activity, students walking to lectures socialising in the common area, in short being students.
The professors building is on the far side of the campus but its sheer majesty is evident even form here.
An old brick building with sand stone detailing, the entrance a grand porch suspended by immense sand stone columns. the building is half covered in Ivy and the windows In the old wooden frames are warped with age and slightly dull casting off strange not uniform reflections.
-
Flea saves a copy of the blueprint, re-opening it in her edit suite. Marking the the location of the nearest carpark, the lab and the cafeteria she then forwards on the file to the team.
//All goes to plan, we can pick him up from the cafeteria on the first floor. If what the Prof said was accurate, that means there is only one ward to pass through, though we don't know where that ward is. I'm going to try and scout out their matrix defences, though it might be a bit out of my abilities to get full access rights.//
-
Icer fallows the two team mates to the University. Once he gets Flea's message he sends one back.
<<<To: Team>>>
Ok This is your guys show I'm just your wing man let me know where you want me and I'll do what I can to help.
<<<End Message>>>
-
//Have a look around in the mojo-world for us Icer, see what we're up against//
-
Icer hears the command from his new team mates then starts to feel the dread set in. If these guys are going to geek me this would be the time when I'm out of my body. This could get me into a cold grave very quickly best think quickly. Icer gets off his bike and sits down as if he is checking his tire so on lookers wouldn't notice that he was out of body. Not sure if he can trust these two new guys Icer was reluctant to leave his body or tell them when he has left. After a quick second of thought he decides to let the team know he is going out of body.
<<TO: Team>>
Ok I'll take a look around make sure my meat shell is not damaged
<<End Message>>
Not wanting to get blind sided Icer decides to get a watcher to keep tabs on his meat shell before he leaves to give him a chance not to get geeked by these two almost complete strangers.
Icer extends mana out of his solar plex and forms his watcher into life. Once out of his body Icer gives the little helper his job to watcher Watcher let me know telepathically if anyone approaches my body or if anyone attacks my body.
With a little bit of releif that he will not have his meat shell open to attacks Icer leaves his body and starts checking around the outside of the building the snatch will take place at looking to see what his astral eyes can see. When the outside once over is done he will see if he can find anything inside the building. Taking it very slowly knowing that there should be a ward somewhere the team has to pass through. Icer wants to see if he can find the location of the ward to let the team know where it is. If Icer spots the ward he will not pass through it encase it is alarmed.
-
Lynx sits in the truck and keeps his eyes peeled for anyone approaching his companions or paying too much attention to them. His fingers drum across the steering wheel as he patiently waits.
-
@Scawire
As you review the campus and mass of auras around you notice nothing unusual, that is until you approach the professors building. The building is covered in awakened Ivy not enough to seal it off but certainly to protect the key areas. the main doorways are not protected by a ward.
@Lumen
Looking over the campus you notice nothing unual and no one is showing you any particular attention.
-
Icer decides to take a look inside. Not really wanting to be away from his shell for too long since it would be easy for someone to put a bullet in his head if he is not careful, and as it stands right now Icer doesn't know how much he can trust his new teammates. Icer really wants to find out what wards there are in place in the building. Flea said there was one Ward to pass through lets see if I can find it. Icer does his best to go into the building and find this one ward Flea told the group about. Icer makes sure to take his time not to set off any alarm wards on his way.
-
@ Scawire
As you enter the building in all you astral glory you see the front desk and reception of the building maned by someone.
exploring the building you quickly find the ward protects the stairs and elevators above the 1st floor.
-
The results of the port scanner popped up in a glowing blue terminal window to the right of Flea's avatar. Within a fraction of a second she'd loaded herhacking suite and set to work punching a hole in it's defenses.
With any luck she'd stay under the radar and not raise any alarms...
-
@ Csjarrat
You punch through the security layer of the university's node without breaking a sweat...
The main host has no sculpting whatsoever and neither does the security back door. you are just greeted with stock dull icons with text describing their function status etc...
However as you explore the individual building nodes within the nexus the departments nodes are sculpted into beautiful environments for with ARO and user unctions all over the place a mecca for the student body to work and develop.
The specific node for the professors department has been sculpted to look like an old Greek palace or temple and the interior looks like a grand library full of books, scrolls and ancient artifacts
-
Once Icer located the Ward that Flea was talking about he darts out of the building the way he came in. Icers body jerks as his astral body locks back into his shell. With his body whole again Icer stands up and lights a smoke. I say the first smoke after an out of body experience is one of the best things life has to offer. With stick of death in hand he walks over to his ?teammates? ride and lets the two know where the ward was and about the Ivy that is such a drag on astral recon. So guys looks like we do have a ward it is located above the first floor protecting both the stairs and the Elevators. Also the building is laced with Ivy, a plant that stops me from strolling in astrally and getting a good view of the building. Oh ya at the front entrance there is a person manning a desk. Icer stretches his back still shaking off the strain on his body caused by missing it's astral double.
-
Flea took a look around the Professor's node, making mental notes of its layout and content in a translucent terminal window.
For now though she needed to focus on the task in hand; locating the security devices.
She fired up her scanning suite and ran a trawl of all the connected devices, filtering through the extensive list for the security related ones.
-
As your search program runs it's own unique magic over the university's node.
You easily find the location of the security cameras on each floor and details of the mag-locks protecting the secure labs.
-
//I'm in, got a log-in for later on. How we looking icer?//
-
<All is clear here in the real world. Any luck setting me up with a visitor's pass for later? > Lynx is starting to get a little antsy. After all the morning's excitement waiting in a parking lot was beginning to wear on him.
-
//good thinking, might be able to book you in for an appointment, should get you past the receptionist//
-
Icer stands back and smokes to his heart content well the two in charge decide what path to take. Icer knows he will most likely have to summon a new spirit since once the sun goes down his spirit he has on stand by with the vehicle masking spell will return to his home plane.
-
Flea pondered on the best way to get Lynx through the doors:
an appointment would elicit checks and curiosity from the receptionist.
Marking the SiN as staff would be the better option in theory, but if she fucked it up, it would land him in a whole boatload of trouble.
She hopped back through the nodes to the entrance gateway and ran her analyse suite over the Receptionist's Icon, trying to figure out the University's staff identification protocols.
Doing her best to replicate them, she rebuilt it as faithfully as she could for Lynx
-
//Lynx, I've patched you up to look like a staff member. I have no idea how long the illusion will last but it should hold up to a cursory examination. Don't count on it holding for ever though, be quick!//
-
<Excellent work my friend! Now, if you are done we should be going. We have already tipped our hand on the park venture we cannot afford to do it here as well. We need to lay low until this evening when we can make our move. You ready to get moving? >
Once again Lynx takes a look around for any signs of unwanted attention.
-
Flea feels the RAS overrides release her muscles as she jacks out; feeling reality kick her in the gut as the data rush of hot-sim fades.
Shaking off the momentary disorientation she speaks to lynx;
Yeah, i'm good. lets go grab a soycaf or something
-
Icer puts back on his bike helmet. Soy-cafe sounds great to me. I'll fallow you guys. Icer walks back to the bike. Well the two didn't try and kill me the minute I went astral maybe this run can still pay back the run I cut out of. Icer gets on his bike waiting to fallow the other two to what ever soy-cafe place the two want.
-
"You got it. Soykaf it is." Lynx fires up the old truck and pulls out once Icer is ready to go. Pulling out of the parking lot he heads out several kilometers before looking up a dinner to go to, where they hopefully wouldn't look too conspicuous.
-
As you input 'Soykaf' into the trucks nav system you are presented with a myriad of choices locally within 5 miles.
In the meantime no one has even paid any of you any real attention.
-
The day passes without event, the soy-caf joint lets you stay all day just snacking and using their public node.
Before long the evening rolls around and the jobs is at hand.
The disposable comm buzzes as a new message arrives.
Incoming message:
Everything is set up in the lab and I'll be at the rendezvous in 30 minutes.
-
Lynx pads down his pockets in yet another 'final' check. Satisfied he looks to Flea, "Ok my friend I am all set. Now are you sure this pass is good enough to get me to the cafeteria? I want you in the driver's seat and ready to go when we come out."
To_Team: <Icer, sound off. Are you ready? Once we get on the road I want you ready to disguise the vehicles and keep your eyes open.>
-
<< TO TEAM
I'm get my spirit ready. Give me a message when you want our rides masked.
<<END of MESSAGE>> Icer Decides to get a some what big spirit to aid the team.
Icer directs his will power and mind into the planes of the Spirits, there he puts out his request to the spirit on their home plane. With Mana flowing through Icer and into the spirits homeland the mental request is hear by a Spirit of Man. The Spirit seems to get drawn to the mages request the same as a bug is drawn to a Light. As the Spirit grabs hold of the mana laced request his will decides to give aid to the Mage Icer and comes through to Icers realm, ready to aid the mage in his endeavors.
<< TO TEAM
Ok I've got some back up ready to give our vehicles a bit of a cloak. Let me know when to get our vehicles masked.
On bike and ready to roll.
<<END of MESSAGE>>
-
Like I said, I copied their ID system as faithfully as I could but anyone who really takes a really good look at it will know its a fake. I'm ready to go.
Flea slots her credstick to close the tab and heads for the van, climbing the short step up into the driver's seat.
She draws her machine pistol, checks chamber and reholsters it, satisfied in her plan B.
With Lynx in the van and Icer on their 6 she moved off
//Alright Icer, Try to keep close. We'll find somewhere a bit quieter and then you can work your mojo//
She eased up the throttle and took a less direct route, picking a quiet side street as the location for Icer to work his magic
-
"I do not think anyone is going to inspect it too thoroughly just to get in the cafeteria. Now let us hope that his tails do not change procedures due to this morning's excitement." As they ride back to the university Lynx runs a diagnostic scan to make sure all his systems all running within defined parameters.
Once they arrive he scans the scene before heading into the cafeteria.
-
Icer fallows his two teammates on his bike making sure to stay near there ride, when it came time to get the spirit to mask the rides he would be ready.
>> To: Team
Ok I'll stay on your 6, just give the word and I'll get my helper to wrap our rides in mana.
>> End of Message
Icer did his best to get a powerful spirit for the job since he knew a small one wouldn't give the team a good mask, and odds are someone who shouldn't see through the mask would. Icer waits for the command from the group, as he fallows the team on his bike.
-
The Campus is quiet in the evening with only a few students milling about heading to the library or having late seminar or lab sessions. Much like the one the professor is running this evening.
@Lumen
As you examine the campus and the the professors building nothing looks out of place and the dim lighting will prove useful as there are many blind spots and dark patches.
-
To_Team: <Alright I am going in. Stay frosty. >
Lynx pulls his jacket in to keep the night's chill at bay and heads towards the target building. He sets his fake SIN to broadcast the pass Flea arranged for him and heads inside. Shaking off the cold he looks around inside looking for an ARO to direct him to the cacafeteria.
-
Flea hops out and puts some cred into the parking meter, hopping into the cab again and syncing up her AR feed.
Shit, better make sure he's got the blueprints...
//Piping the floorplan into your AR feed now, just hit accept//
On her right she lays out the sensor feed from the truck, on her left she lays out the varying nodes of the University network.
Logging in with her illicitly obtained security clearance, she takes control of the camera in the lobby, observing Lynx's entrance before switching to the camera feed in the cafeteria
Come on boss, please tell me you're in here somewhere...
-
@ Lumen
The security guard behind the desk takes a look at your ID and waves you waves you through the front desk just as flea pings you the AR overlay with the blue prints, the stairway to the 1st floor is three doors to your left the hallways are dark but the lights come on automatically as you walk by.
@Csjarrat
The camera in the cafeteria show the empty room chairs are on the tables and there is a cleaner mopping the floor.
You can see the silhouette of a man leaning against the cafeteria door however.
-
Lynx smiles and waves to the security guard as he walks past. He accepts the file from Flea and brings it up on his AR display. He walks slowly but with purpose trying to not seem too out of place. Heading upstairs he keeps his eyes and ears open.
-
//Can't get a decent look but there appears to be someone lurking just out of view in the cafe. might be our guy. Janitor in there too. Going to sweep your route for security now//
-
Icer makes sure he parks where he can see the ride of his teammates. Seeing Flea put money in the parking meter, Icer decides to do the same, then returns to his bike and pretends to be interacting with some AR windows. Lets see how this goes, best get some nuyen soon or I'll have to find a new run to do.
-
<Affirmative, will approach with caution.> As Lynx closes in on the cafeteria he switches on his increased reflexes and cranks his audio and visual enhancements to maximum, in the hopes he won't miss a beat if something goes wrong.
-
@ Lumen
Approaching the man loitering at the cafeteria, you see him shift uncomfortably. He's reaching into his jacket for something and he looks scared.
Who are you? he retorts at you trying to act authoritive.
@ Csjarrat
The security cameras in the halls show no-one else in the vicinity. There is just the one janitor in the cafeteria the loitered and lynx.
@ Scawire
your spirit of man communicates with you while you are parked up, ready to serve you at a moments notice.
Master, how do you wish me to proceed?
The parking lot is quiet and almost ghostly with a rustling of the awakened ivy on the building despite an unnatural stillness in the air.
-
Icer is still in question if these two "teammates" are going to double cross him. Icer needs the nuyen so it is worth the risk. Just stay on call right now, I'll need you later to cast some spells. I'll let you know what to do when it is needed. Icer stays seated on his bike pretending to flip through AR windows with his hands. I hope this doesn't go south again. It could go south alot worse then it did at the park. Well that seems to be how the Shadows work.... I think anyway, since I can't remember anything before waking up in a blood stained coffin motel. Great name Coffin motel that is what could have been my coffin, I think I owe that medkit a thank you. So what kind of card do you buy for a Med-kit anyways?
-
Lynx walks up and holds his hands up to the obviously jittery individual. "My name is Vladimir, who are you my friend?" He stands to his full height and rolls his shoulders back. *Too much surveillance to take him down clean... hopefully Flea can handle the footage.*
-
@Lumen
Well Vladimir just hold it right there...
He pulls a commlink out from his jacket and starts to search for a number dialling it he begins to speak once answered....
@Csjarrat
The burner comm buzzes with an ARO) highlighted in your image link... it's the professor, clearly he's not exactly trusting of lynx's approach.
As you answer the call he talks to you
I don't know who you guys are but I hope this is your man here...
He is your man right?
-
Taking a look at the vehicle's sensor feeds, she looked around for security paying too much of an interest in the vehicles.
Hearing the call come in, Flea slaved the burner to her main comm, routing the call and opening it in a separate AR window.
//This is our man, follow him. We'll keep you safe//
Seeing that Lynx's meet had taken place off camera, she set the cameras on their route to a 1 second loop to keep them off the radar.
She browsed the security node for an RFID reader or SiN scanner on the external doorway, wondering if the Prof's departure would be registered by some device...
-
@ Lumen
Calming down the professor lets a wave of relaxing energy wash over him as he addresses you.
Well then Vladimir, lead the way.
@ Scawire
You hear foot steps from the other side of the car park heading towards you your bike and your compatriot.
@ Csjarrat
As you survey the car park with the vehicle sensors you detect a security guard paying you and your mage friend a little too much attention, he is beating a path towards you with a brisk walk, the way he is standing he looks ready to draw at a moments notice.
The flashlight is lighting his path towards you in the van. you don't have long before he'll be at the window.
-
Lynx smiles wide at the professor, "Excellent, let us go." He turns and starts heading back the way he came. He pauses to make sure the Professor is keeping in tow.
-
Icer doesn't like this guard, maybe he should have put a concealment spell on the group, but to conceal a whole vehicle is very very hard to do. Best to figure a plan out and quick. Icer starts to think of ways to deal with the guard, at the same time he turns so he can look in the direction of the guard to get a astral read on him.
Via Sub vocal
Hey guys we have a guard scooping us out and in bound right now. Icer hopes someone else can deal with him but best have a plan if he has to deal with him.
-
//Yeah I see him, Frag him Icer, can't risk it ruining the run//
-
<<<Sub Vocal>>10-4 Icer was thinking of things to say to the guard to try and get him to leave the group alone but dropping the guy works too. Icer switches his eyes back to the physical and starts to play the mana in the area like a fine tuned instrument. With the Mana ready he directs it into the guards body in the form of a stun bolt.... No need to do wet work right now, less likely to have the law on Icer's back if he doesn't kill the guard.
-
@ Lumen
The professor follows you willingly, and your quickly at the front desk, you find it to be empty as you approach.
@ Csjarrat & Scawire
The guard drops very quickly just clutching his head as the mana swarms around him.
-
Once the guard is dropped Icer changes his eyes back to astral and starts to Erase his Astral Signature, so hopefully no one will be able to id Icer's aura.
As Icer erases the signature he Sub vocals Flea. <<< Sub Vocal>> The guard is down.
Icer starts to think of robbing the guard of all his gear but then decides to hold position.
(OOC Note: astral Signatures are on page 192 Core book, takes force complex actions to erase the signature. Just FYI)
-
Seeing the front desk empty Lynx keeps his stride and heads straight outside. He holds the door open for the professor and takes a quick look around before starting for the van.
-
Flea sees the guard hit the deck in the rear view camera and drums her hand on the steering wheel.
Mentally she commands the truck to fire up via her trode net, unlocking the door for Lynx and the prof.
//Icer; Nice job, get ready to move on//
//Ok Lynx, move it, we had to down a guard. It's go time!//
-
@ Lumen
The lot is clear other than the guard out cold sprawled out in the middle of the parking lot.
All
The professor follows without any sign of hesitation and can't seem to thank you enough.
Thank you, thank you you have no idea how much this means to me.
Leaving the lot there is no sign of any trouble and the streets are quiet it seems like you have got away cleanly, a welcome change to the events of earlier today.
-
Lynx follows the professor into the van and shuts the door behind them. He whispers through his subvocal mic to the team, <We are in, let us go now. Icer keep eyes on our six and standby to change the appearance of the vehicles.>
He then turns back to the professor, "Do not thank us yet. You may thank us once we have arrived at our destination. Were you able to step away from class without raising suspicions?"
-
Icer makes sure he erased all of his astral signature then fallows the Professor and his two runner teammates.
<<<Sub Vocal>>> I'm on your guys 6, let me know if you need the masking mojo.
Icer is glad the guard hit the floor so easily that could have drawn alot more attention then the team wanted. I hope I hit pay day soon. Icer does his best to keep checking his side mirrors to see if the team picks up a tail.
-
Flea double checks the outside cam had been set to loop before the guard got fragged and opened the throttle once the Prof and Lynx were aboard.
She drove carefully, sticking to the route she'd planned earlier and doing her best not to drive like the maniac her adrenaline was wanting her to be
-
The journey to the meeting point with the Johnson is highly uneventful.
The meeting point is an old warehouse a few blocks away from the Evo arcology, as you start pulling up the shutter doors lift for immediately with a rusty clatter. Inside there are a few scattered boxes and at the back there is simple desk. the Johnson is leaning up as your headlight illuminate him upon entry.
Glad to see everything went without troubles. They did didn't they?
-
Pretty much. No-one got hurt and we made the pickup without any drama. All that's left is to settle the financials.
-
Well i'd like to see the good professor first and welcome him personally.
For his self assurance of course...
... We can settle the financials after that.
-
Icer keeps to the rear of the group holding his bike helmet in hand. This is starting to look good, hopefully this will lead to some nuyen in my pocket Icer keeps his eyes open waiting to see how this meeting goes.
-
Lynx opens the side door of the van and steps out. He looks around cautiously before signaling the professor to step out. "Now I believe is the time to thank us."
-
flea let's her jacket slide open as she gestures to lynx and the prof to stay back, all the better to reach her piece if negotiations went sour.here he is, safe and sound.
-
Professor, how good to see you again. If you'd like to follow Jimmy here, I'll join you both in a moment.
Jimmy appears as if from no where when prompted , he's wearing a designer suit that fits impeccably. With heavy stubble and a grizzled weathered face that betrays his military past. He remains silent through out and escorts the professor into the back of the warehouse. They open a door and disappear.
The light from the back room illuminated the warehouse briefly showing just how sparse it is. and highlights the Johnson desk at the back waiting for you. clearly the boxes at the front are for decoration only and this is nothing more than a front for the Johnson to do his shadowy dealings.
Well then gentlemen it would seem I owe you some money. if you'd like to take a seat i'll sort everything out for you.
He pulls out two cred sticks, a quick plug in shows that the agreed funds of are all present and correct.
That should settle our business I believe. It's been good working with such professionals, would you object to me holding a retainer?
-
"Just one thing first. There are three of us and I believe the price we agreed upon was per person. As long as that is not an issue then I see no reason to object to a retainer. Work is always welcome." Lynx points a thumb towards Icer when he mentions a third person but otherwise stands arms crossed.
-
Your so right sir, i did agree the price the per person...
He reaches into a draw on the desk and pulls out another cred-stick.
There you all present and correct.
Since it looks like we might be working together some door do you wish to join me 'debriefing' the professor?
-
by all means, lead the way.
Flea smiled, happy at the job done. Logging back into the university network she did her best to clear her datatrail before logging off.
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Icer is glad to see he got his Nuyen after all. With a bow Icer takes his cred stick and pockets it. Once the metion that there was going to be a 'debriefing' of the professor Icer's mind starts to think the whole thing has turned into a trap again. Not wanting to show his cards he does his best to keep no expression on his face. Icers mind starts to think.... What am I walking into? Is it worth it? hummmm...... Icer finally decides to fallow the two runners into the 'debriefing'. Icer is hoping this gamble will let him to talk these two runners into helping him find a contact or two in the Shadow world. For some reason his heart and mind are drawing Icer to join the shadow players in this part of the world.
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Following the Johnson he leads you into the back.
The back of the warehouse looks far more clinical than anything else almost surgical, the odd blood stain here and there and the distinct smell of disinfectant and bleach. There is a one way window looking into the interview room where Jimmy is stood behind the professor sat in robust aluminium chair in front of a a simple metal desk with a heavy cloth draped over it. The room is bright and intimating with gleaming white tiles everywhere and a small drain in the floor.
If you would like to watch the interview from here i'll go and interview the dear professor.
He walks into the room and slowly walks over to the table while reading a file, the same file he provided you earlier you would presume. He pauses while walking round the room before taking a seat opposite the professor.
So then, Boris
Last I recall was meeting you at that conference where was that again?
Anyway you mentioned you would be interesting in working for someone a little less controlling, well we have something for you, a lead role in our research division.
You'd have your own team, a private lab in the arcology, freedom to commit to YOUR research YOUR way!
Now I appreciate that because of your former sponsors you may have difficulties in the rest of the city, so we will provide you body guards when you leave the arcology for your own protection and a your own private accommodations in the arcology to help facilitate your efforts.
Is there anything else you would need?
The professor looks surprised as he expected a different approach.
It was in Vladivostok if I recall the, microbiology s-seminar was really rather dull but I did get to meet a few old friends.
Your offer is very interesting and I will gr-gratefully accept.
The only thing I would need is t-the research I have s-secured on my hone node,
Is that acceptable.
The Johnson watched his answers carefully, clearly a test to ensure that the professor is genuine.
Relaxing back into his chair he listens to the professor.
That should definitely be possible it would seem we have a deal...
He stands up and extends a hand to the professor who gladly accepts, before nodding towards Jimmy.
Jimmy taking his cue leaves the room and flips a switch as he does turning the mirror solid, you can see that they are still talking as the screen turns opaque and the sounds deadens.
Jimmy walks round the corner and talks to you in a distinct British accent
Well then gentlemen,
We thank you for assistance in this matter.
Since you have been paid i believe that settles all the business for now.
As you can see we will likely have more work for you soon given the research you have already done.
So I suggest you keep your Links close if your interested.
For now though i hope you enjoy your payday.
End of Act I
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Once their business is concluded and they are back outside Lynx smiles to his companions, "Job well done. That went smoothly all things considered. Now I just need to return the van then it will time for celebratory drinks! Either of you interested in coming along? "