Shadowrun
Shadowrun Play => Play-by-Post => Topic started by: Jayde Moon on <05-11-15/0335:47>
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It’s a rainy day in Seattle, which comes as no surprise. The light drizzle never seems to let up in May, an dreary accompaniment to the general mood of the city. Mostly, it’s been quiet. Work has been steady and generally easy, of late. Enough to keep up with the rent, but no major payday for some time.
As the denizens of Seattle go about their day, five commlinks across the city chirp their announcement that there is a waiting message. Hardly notable in a city where even the most destitute vagrant has a metalink, unless you consider that the source commcode belongs to a dead man.
@ Lady Marisart
>> Lady Marisart, I humbly request a meeting. Stravinsky’s ‘The Nightingale’ plays its final show at the Seattle Opera. Might I suggest using your influence to reserve a first tier box at the theater? Party of six. Mr. Aaron Johnson, Mr. Byron Kelsey, Mr. Chung-ho Lee, Ms. Delila Mason, Ms. Elsa Nigel, and yourself. <<
@ Kumiha
>> Mr. Chung-ho Lee, I kindly request your presence at the Seattle Opera, tonight, your ticket will be at the will-call window. <<
@ Kachina Powaka
>> Ms. Elsa Nigel, I kindly request your presence at the Seattle Opera, tonight, your ticket will be at the will-call window. <<
@ Mother
>> Ms. Delila Mason, I kindly request your presence at the Seattle Opera, tonight, your ticket will be at the will-call window. <<
@ Requiem
>> Mr. Byron Kelsey, I kindly request your presence at the Seattle Opera, tonight, your ticket will be at the will-call window. <<
—————
A quick look at the public Seattle Opera host shows that the only show this Saturday night is The Nightingale, by Igor Stravinsky and that it starts at 7 pm… eight hours from now.
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Requiem moved through the katas with a grace and poise that belied his age. His wires were deactivated, after all what was the point in a demonstration if the students couldn’t witness it? They stood in a hushed group around the outside of the main room in the dojo, trying to keep track of the iridescent green lasers that indicated where the two pistols were pointing. Subtly notching up the speed Requiem triggered the AR sparring program and moved into a more aggressive pattern of blocks and strikes all the while evading the returning blows. In a final burst of speed he accelerated the program whilst pushing himself to his limits until he suddenly froze in mid pirouette, apparently defying the natural laws of momentum, pistols in the final stance of the Firefight art…
Acknowledge the respect of his students, Requiem in turn bowed low to Jitan before clearing the mats for the changing rooms. His AR had flashed the message across his vision in the final moments of the katas…a trip to the Opera? He was intrigued…
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Lady Tanya Marisart is near the top of the extreme section of the free climbing wall at the gym when the message pings her internal commlink. She completes the climb to the upper ledge before accessing the message. Her heart skips a beat when she notes the comm code used. *Lyle? He was found dead several days earlier. Someone must have found the green book he kept hidden. Lots of nerve, too, to set this up at short notice. Still, I am curious enough to at least go see what the man wants.* She opens a comm with her maid. <Monique, change of plans for tonight. Just got a note to be at the Opera. I am thinking the Nightshade so please get it out and ready. I will be back after my run.>
After getting the acknowledgement from her maid she places a call to the Opera House. <Maddy, that you? Tanya Marisart here. Say, I know it is short notice but I need a favor. I will be at the box tonight for Nightingale and need tickets and refreshments for six. Please have some will-call tickets sent to the door for Aaron Johnson, Byron Kelsey, Chung-ho Lee, Delila Mason, Elsa Nigel, and myself. Please have some good champaign and light snacks in the box. Thank you so much and I owe you one.>
After signing off, Tanya stands and grabs hold of the rope set into the wall before swinging out and free rappelling to the floor some fifty feet below. She picks up her gear and walks to the attendant where she confirms her next appointment before heading off to the locker room. She changes into running clothes and sets off on her morning run, using the miles to help her focus her thoughts. She is definitely curious about the meet. Why the opera of all places? Lyle had been far more laid back than that, usually meeting at low class dives and restaurants. The opera would be different to be sure. She takes the time to open a call to her best friend, Petra Sprent. <Hey girlfriend. How is it going for the number one reporter in Seattle? Say, change of plans for tonight. I have been called for a possible job and it may run late. Monique will have the night off so use your key to get in. Don't wait up and keep the bed warm. We're still on for brunch as far as I know. Ta.>
She finishes her run back at the hotel gym and heads to the shower before dressing and going to her sub-floor three suite. She uses the special passkey to open the door and walks into the spacious living room. She spares a glance at the immense floor to ceiling window that looks directly into the water of the Sound then heads for the bedroom. Monique has already laid out the evening wear for approval and the two talk shoes, evening bag, and shawl before Tanya slips into comfortable lounge wear and goes back to sit in the living room to observe the fish and reflect on Lyle Green. He had been a regular fixer for her for almost two years before his untimely death. A nice guy, a good lover, and a man with a lot of connections written down in his little green book. And now someone else had that book. She understood the Johnson moniker, and assumed that the other invitees for the evening were other contacts of Lyle's. Monique interrupted once to say that one of the hotel limousines would be at her disposal for the evening and that it would be out front at five. Maddy called to say that all was laid on and that Tanya did indeed owe her one for this.
Monique assists Tanya in dressing and gives the final stamp of approval on the color selection. Tanya thanks her and wishes her a good time on her evening off. She goes to the massive lobby just before five and notes that her favorite driver, Alphonse, is to be hers for the night. They exchange greetings and Tanya asks about his family as he walks her outside and to the gleaming Rolls Silver Phaeton 62. Stops for a moment, savoring that she can actually get inside the same sort of vehicle that figures so prominently in her nightmares. She can still see the fireball that wiped out her family and hear her own screams a she watched her earlier life vaporize in front of her. She sits back during the ride, letting Alphonse's skill take her smoothly to the Opera House. Once there, she thanks Alphonse for the ride and tells him that he can go get something to eat and that she will comm him when she is ready to go back home. Alphonse helps her from the car and she walks up the broad steps to the entrance. She is early but she wants the time to make sure that all the preparations are in order. As she enters the ornate Opera House lobby she sees several people she knows. Apparently there are others out to see the final performance. She nods at several acquaintances, stopping to chat for a few minutes with two of them. Noticing Maddy standing near the front counter, Tanya excuses herself from the chat and moves toward her. The events manager for the most prestigious opera house on the west coast smiles as she sees one of her favorite customers. They exchange cheek busses and a hug and Maddy presents her with her ticket for the performance and tells her that all is ready.
With all in preparation, Lady Tanya Marisart sweeps up the stairs to her first tier box and waits to see what develops. The expertly tailored and custom fitted emerald gown looks exquisite on her frame, accentuating a bit of this and exposing just a bit of that in all the right ways to get people to notice her without appearing to be trashy. The emeralds at her neck and ears had been her mother's and, to be honest, they looked far better on Tanya than they ever had on her mother. Her vibrant copper hair was natural, as was her figure. All in all, she looked amazing and completely innocuous, which was just fine for her. She walked to her box and stood at the railing looking out over the gathering audience to see who was present and letting them see her in some time-honored tradition of elite society.
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Kachina would have discarded the message as Spam, if not for the sender: Lyle!?
She didn't believe in coincidence. Could it be that Lyle was still alive? It wouldn't be the first time someone fake his own death in the Shadows. Or someone was going into great length to get her attention. It could be a trap. What if the same person who killed Lyle was now looking at killing all his closer friends and contact. Kachina wasn't the closest friend he had for sure, but she knew they were able to call each other as such and that was rare enough in her field.
She definitely had to find out and had no much choice but to go to the opera tonight. She connected to her link and looked at her account and sight. There was noway she would go shopping on this... She opened her small wardrobe and looked what she had that would make her look presentable for tonight. The turquoise long dress was elegant and stylish but offered absolutely no protection. That all she had that fit for the event though, so she just had to come prepared.
She had to talk to someone though. Connected to the Matrix, she sent a message to Manny.
>>>>>"Hey, buddy. Need some info. Can you send me detailed info on the following runners: Mother, Requiem, Kumiha and Lady Tanya. Could they fit in my 'dream team'? Don't have much to offer as far as payment but I'm sure you'll soon as something to ask me. " <<<<<
She made her way to her lodge, and placed a few dried up but full leafs of a rare tree from which Mana was glowing. She relaxed while she let herself drift into the Astral Plane and call upon the power of the great Thunderbird.
Later in the day, she took a nap knowing the night would be long and prepared for the event. She was radiating in elegance.
She drove and parked nearby the Opera House, and waiting anxiously for the sun to set.
F4 Improve Initiative Spell - Sustained with Focus
Improve Intuition (http://orokos.com/roll/287451): 17d6t5 4
Using 6 Reagent to break the limit on a Force 2 Increase Reflexes Spell - Sustained with Focused Concentration
Increase Reflexes (http://orokos.com/roll/287452): 17d6t5 7
She will wait for the sun to set in order to Summon a Spirit of Man F7 to act as her body guard and skill booster
Summon Spirit of Man F7 (http://orokos.com/roll/287459): 15d6t5 2
Using Edge to Reroll
Summon Spirit of Man F7 Edge Reroll (http://orokos.com/roll/287460): 13d6t5 5
Spirit Resistance
Summon Spirit of Man F7 Spirit Resistance (http://orokos.com/roll/287462): 8d6t5 2
Drain
Summon Spirit of Man F7 Drain (4) (http://orokos.com/roll/287464): 10d6t5 5
5 services for the night - no drain - one Edge used.
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Mother sat at her vanity glancing down at her commlink as if the message were a puzzle.
"I believe in spirits but they don't usually send messages to my commlink." said Mother.
Two of her friends looked in through the doorway.
"What?" asked Terr0r a short bearded female bodied orc decker in a synth leather armored jacket covered in anarchy symbols.
"Revere...does the opera allow firearms?" asked Mother.
"It is generally frowned upon." said Revere, a blonde blue eyed elf in a grey suit.
"Ter0r can you see if you can find out who sent me this message...do you think you could hack the opera host?"
"Can I leave grafiti in it?" asked Terr0r smiling.
"As long as you wait until I am out. I need to know who I am meeting with...what am I going to wear?" asked Mother absently looking through her closet.
"Definitely this..." said Mother laying out a purple backless armanté gown. "I'll be the belle of the ball." said Mother holding the dress up to her body and spinning.
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Kumiho manipulates a new AR image decal of his own creation up along the side of a small distributor in east Bellevue - something to make a the passerby stop and think (if they have two neurons to rub together). The fox mask he wears is slick with rain, a small constant drip, drip off the foxes nose is his only companion in this typical Seattle weather. As he manipulates the Graphic into the best position for maximum impact he receives a Message alert. He finishes his artistry he checks his message, hoping that he sees some good news from one of the know Bots he setup earlier to snag a data on the death of his friend. Instead, he is surprised to see a message from his now dead friend..
" Mr. Chung-ho Lee?", he says to no one. "what are you up to old friend?"
When he reaches home he sets up two browses on his deck, one to look for something to wear to the opera, at a reasonable price, and the other to find the most recent floor plans to the Opera house in case he needs to leave quickly. He's not a sucker for sure. After hearing about Green's death, who ever sent the message might have been tipped off to his investigation of the death and laid out a trap to remove him. Once he knows where the plans are he hacks into the server, makes a copy of the plans, and leaves. By the time he is done, he should have a new suit to pick up in the morning and some idea of how to get out of the opera if the need arises.
Artisan (http://orokos.com/roll/287630): 7d6t5 1
Browse: Opera House Floor plans. (http://orokos.com/roll/287635): 9d6t5 5
Hacking on the Fly to gain access to Layout (http://orokos.com/roll/287640): 14d6t5 4
Edit File: Download/Copy (http://orokos.com/roll/287642): 12d6t5 5
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Tanya waves to several people she recognizes in other boxes then sits in one of the very comfortable chairs. Her internal clock pings, telling her that it is quickly approaching 1900 and neither the mysterious Johnson nor any of the other guests have arrived yet. Her reverie is interrupted by several uniformed Opera House staffers. Three bottles of a good vintage champaign are set in ice and six elegant flutes are set on a silver tray that is put on the table in the box. Several trays of hors d'oeuvres are put on smaller tables that are strategically placed around the box. Tanya tips each man well according to his station, thanking them all. The supervisor provides her with a card with his comm code on it in case she needs anything else. She asks him to be ready to provide other liquid refreshments as she does not know the habits of her guests.
That done and the men gone, she pours herself some champaign and waits for both of the plays to begin......the one on the stage and the one in her box.
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So, he was going to meet a dead man at the Opera? It seemed unlikely, but no stranger than some of the other meetings he’d had over the years. It would be best to be prepared for a measure of conflict, even if the Opera house was too exposed to make an ambush likely. Pulling up an AR map of Downtown he located a route to a secure parking garage near his destination. Regretfully he would have to leave his heavier arsenal there. Even with the correct, fake, licences it would be unwise to draw that degree of attention, and his lined coat would feel substantially lighter without the reassuring bulk of the Guardian in the built-in holster. Of course he couldn’t ride through the Seattle weather in a suit and he could hardly turn up to the Opera in bike leathers but thankfully he had the time to drop the bike, return home and then take a taxi Downtown…not for the first time he promised to buy himself a car when the next run was through. He had become too accustomed to getting rides from team mates…
***
He stepped out of the taxi and cinched the lined coat tighter around his throat. The large black umbrella unfurled above him, serving to keep the crappy weather out of his face and his face off the various surveillance devices littering the plex. It also served as a convenient mounting location for the three micro cameras which gave him a degree of three sixty vision. The Light Fire was tucked into the slide on his forearm, the mechanism tested at least twice for potential snags…time to go and get some culture…
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[Saturday, 207505111846L]
The Seattle Opera House is an impressive structure, with architecture that suggests solid, old stonework, while maintaining a modern touch. It isn't the original structure that was on Mercer Street, just a few blocks down, it was moved perhaps forty or fifty years ago to it's current location.
Tonight, the Opera is busy, so many of Seattle's well-to-do are in attendance, it almost eases your paranoia of walking into a trap.
@ Kachina
As Kachina walks up the stairs towards the will call, an ARO pops up in the corner of her vision, indicating a message. It looks like it's from Manny. She thumbs her commlink and the message reads across the display in her contacts, providing her with its contents while she keeps moving.
>>>>>[Hey, lovely. I looked into those names for you. None of them are in my immediate circles, but I was able to suss out the important bits. All of them have been steady worker bees in your line of work. Nothing really good... or more importantly: bad... to set them apart. But it's probably a good thing I haven't heard of em, means they've kept their heads down. Looks like someone's putting something together, then? Man... busy night. Good luck, chica.]<<<<<
@ Mother
It feels nice to be out, actually, dressed to impress and standing with Seattle's elite and fitting right in. Well, mostly fitting right in. In a hundred years, there's been progress... and attention shifts... but bigotry will never fade away and a few stares her way indicate where it still lives.
A message from Terr0r leaves her without any more knowledge than she already had, the commlink that sent the message never popped up again. They were able to get advance warning on the seating. Turns out whomever had arranged this was able to pull some strings. A first tier box, right in front, stage left. It didn't get any better.
Standing in the front for a few moments, she shifts her gaze to the Astral. A few awakened individuals in the crowd, and some cyberware, but nothing stands out. If there are any magical protections here, they are well hidden.
@ Kumiha
Getting into the public host is easy, it invites a MARK and he's in. Finding the schedules and general layout are easy. Looking it over, he can see that it contains everything except the backstage areas and the basement. It doesn't take much to access the backend of the host and find those items as well.
At least if it goes sour, he knows all of the ways out.
Afterwards, he dresses up and makes his way to the theater.
@ Tanya
As she sits, the curtain behind her pulls aside as a distinguished looking gentleman steps in. He's wearing an exquisitely fitted Mortimer Berwick, a choice that shows taste but lacks the showy extravagance of Zoe's Heritage line. Tanya estimates that he is in his fifties or low sixties. He has allowed his hair to gray and it is short. A small amount of product holds it impeccably in place. His neatly trimmed mustache and beard are also streaked with gray. Noticing Tanya, he offers a smile that completes the picture. He extends his right hand, his palm facing slightly upward.
"Lady Marisart?" he asks, as he takes her hand in his, covering it then with his left hand in a gesture of both warmth and familiarity. "I appreciate your efforts in arranging our gathering this evening. I am James, it is my genuine pleasure to meet you."
@ All
Tickets were easy. The name granted at will-call earned you a pass into the theater's large interior. There were no scans or checks, which indicates an expectation that credentials might not have been provided, had the attendant asked.
Inside the grand foyer, the elegant interior showed class and nuyen, lots of nuyen.
Now, it was time to find your seats. For some, as easy as calling up the floor plan. For others, ushers stood at every doorway, waiting to show you to your box. Box 1B...
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Kumiho enters the box 1B, nodding to each person who is already seated before seating himself. He situates his shoulder bag next to him within easy reach and keeps a look out for anything that might clue him into what this is all about. He tries to main cool and confident, but occasionally he stretches his neck to the side a little to release the tension building there.
Perception Check (http://orokos.com/roll/287836): 4d6t5 3
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Mother adjusts her electrochromatic wig which is a deep purple to match her dress.
Mother's affected southern drawl comes through in her text to Terr0r >>>>Terr0r how would you like to cause some mischeif on a whole lot of rich bitches?? I have in my pocket a datatap and a datachip containing the orchestral version of Thriller I need the last song in the opera edited. Can you make this happen? Mother looks around for a place to plug in her datatap Perception roll (http://://orokos.com/roll/287906#)
Mother smiles to herself letting an attendant take her shawl.
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Great spirit protector of Man, thank you to have answered my call. I need you to invigorate my soul with your might until you must depart this plane.
She felt the Mana energy of the Spirit irradiating through her. Filled with confidence, she made her way to the reserved box. Upon entering she saw a few persons had arrived already. She recognized Lady Tanya and Mother and Kumiho thanks to the file Manny had just forwarded her. She was first surprised to see them here as they had just mentioned meeting together on the Needle.net. Coincidence, really?
She didn't recognize the older gentleman.
Well, what a pleasant company we have here. She announced to notify of her arrival. As usual she stood straight, proud, with an intimidating stance and presence, looking much taller and confident than she really was.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/6497226/Shaking-the-Shadows/Kachina_evening.png)
Ask the Spirit of Man to cast and sustain Increase Charisma on Kachina
Spirit of Man: Increase Charisma Spell F6 (http://orokos.com/roll/287947): 16d6t5 9
CHA +4 (max augmented attribute)
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Noticing several of the people who has joined him in the box, Kumiho pulls his bag closer and does something inside it; keeping it hidden as well as he can he sets his deck up as a jammer.
This takes a minute to set up, but once it is completed he turns to those who he recognizes.
"I assume you all received a message from our mutual acquaintance and a ticket to this fair event?" He says with one eyebrow raised in a question.
" We can speak somewhat freely since I have jammed the airways to make it less easy for others to ease drop on what is said here."
Jam Signals (http://orokos.com/roll/287965): 13d6t5 5
Deck Setup listed in OOC thread
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Tanya stands as the distinguished gentleman enters pushes the curtain aside and enters the box. She holds out her hand to take his. "Good evening, James. And please call me Tanya unless you have a need to remain formal. I am glad that you could make it before the curtains rise. You are the first to arrive so far. I will refrain from asking the questions I am burning to have answers for as I am sure that you do not wish to repeat yourself too many times." She motions to a shelf at the railing where five pairs of opera glasses sit. "Please take one if you do not have your own. Would you care for some champaign?"
Tanya engages James in small talk about the evening's performance, which she has already seem twice during its run in Seattle. She stands again when each of the others enters. She introduces herself, welcoming each to her box and telling them that she hopes they enjoy the view. She offers refreshments and a set of glasses to everyone as they enter the box. Her intent is to show grace and make everyone feel welcome. She learned long ago that there is usually something positive to emphasize about anyone and she does so tonight. Everyone gets a genuine compliment as she works the small group. Her cultured British accent is evident, as is a faint scent of jasmine perfume in the air. As the clock ticks down to curtain time, she looks about and says, "We seem to be missing Mr. Kelsey. I do hope that he makes it before the curtain as they will shut the doors and do not let anyone in after that until the intermission. Does anyone know him to give him a call?"
She raises an eyebrow at the mention of the jammer, but says nothing. She pours everyone a glass of champaign and raises her glass. "I would like to offer a toast to our friend, Lyle Green. Lyle, you will be sorely missed for your wit, your candor, and your uncanny ability to see the essential value in everyone. We honor your memory." With that she raises her glass high then drinks from the flute.
When she lowers her glass she looks to James as if expecting him to take the stage now. "It might be best to wait for the intermission before talking too much about Lyle or anything else. It is generally considered bad form to talk during the show. And this really is an excellent production."
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Enchanté. Nice to meet all y'all.
Said Mother in her faux southern drawl while taking a seat. She took an opera glass and one of champaign and said
To Lyle. He always had a kind word and he laughed at all my jokes. A dear friend...
Mother took a sip of her champaign.
Now are you misses Johnson? Mother asked Tanya.
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Tanya smiles at Ms Mason. "No, that would be the distinguished gentleman to your right, Delila. I hope that I can call you Delila? James asked me to set this meeting up for him, presumably because I have a place where we can meet." She glances over the railing at the gathering audience and the other boxes and laughs before turning back. "Although right now I have to assume that half the social elite of Seattle are wondering who my guests are. By the way, I do like that color on you. It suits you. And I must say that you do Armante proud in that frock."
Tanya turns to Elsa and says, "That is an interesting ring. Very nice. And it is Elsa, right? Do please call me Tanya."
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Requiem smiled briefly at the people in the box, lingering a little longer on the attractive women…well this wasn’t what he’d expected, not that’d he’d had anything specific in mind…no dead man walking anyway…
“Good evening. Please, call me Byron…”
Unbuttoning the long coat he let its bulk slide onto the back of one of the vacant chairs and gracefully accepted one of the champagne flutes. He leant the umbrella against the chair, a small electric charge having shed the water from it outside, trying to ensure that one of the micro cameras got a reasonable glimpse of the faces in the box, for later analysis if needs be…
“Cheers”
-
@ All
As each of you make your way in, the older man stands, also introducing himself. At Mother's inquiry into 'Ms. Johnson' and Tanya's response, he smiles.
"Please allow me to dispense with the... 'formality'... of addressing anyone at this gathering as Mr. Johnson. As I said, I am James, though some folks call me 'Saint James'."
@ Mother
Saint James?! What the holy fuck? If this is THE Saint James, I have hit the big time! Saint James is a near legendary Fixer who only works with the best Shadowrunners and arranges premium work. Despite what Mother had in her 'resume', she couldn't imagine having actually pulled off anything worthy of warranting the attention of Saint James.
@ Tanya
When the man mentions that he is 'Saint James,' Tanya notices 'Delila's' reaction. It is an extremely subtle reaction, just the very slightest widening of the eyes. It conveys a sense of surprise and... pleasure? But just like that, it is gone, returning to a carefully groomed 'neutral' expression.
@ All
The man continues, "However, as Lady Tanya suggests, let us respect this venue and enjoy the theatrics.
The opera opens at a seashore as the sun is rising. It plays through the first act with somber performances from the Nightingale, fisherman, cook, and chamberlain, before closing into the first intermission. As men and women leave their seats, Saint James speaks again.
"Now, you all doubtlessly noticed that I used... Mr. Green's commlink to message each of you. I intend no disrespect to the deceased, nor did I wish to 'trick' you. I felt it would be an appropriate manner with which to catch your attention.
"You see, Lyle Green was a friend of mine. More than that, he was what you might call my protégé. It was with great distress that I found him in a... 'state'... in his apartment. I should like to determine what happened and why."
He pauses a moment, allowing room for others to speak, if they so wish.
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Though it is an honor and a pleasure to meet you Saint James I am on the edge of my seat waiting to hear what this is all about.
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Requiem nodded too but otherwise stayed silent, keen to see where this was leading...
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Thank you Lady Tanya, genuinely answered Kachina on the comment on the ring. You look stunning in this dress, I'm honored to finally meet you. The red hair woman was indeed beautiful and let go an aura of power and confidence too. Another Alpha female in a group could make thing difficult, but if she could pull off getting everyone at in a box at the Opera in such a short notice, she had resources and skills that would be highly useful for a lot of potential runs.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/6497226/Shaking-the-Shadows/Lady_evening.png)
Kachina then offered her hand to James, who introduced himself. The man was quite a legend in the Shadows. Pretty high caliber has been reunited in this booth. Was it random that Kachina had just reached out to them to form a team together? The later would be needed. The art of proper etiquette was to know what to say when to say it, but more often than not to just keep your mouth shut and observe, and she will have to teach that to the young Asian in the room. What was he, Korean? Kachina always had a hard time differentiating Asian ethnicity. What he did was well thought, but saying it could have been quite insulting to whomever organized this meeting.
The Elf was quiet, professional and deadly looking. She didn't know yet what to make of the man/woman but her Aura was bursting with Mana and Kachina could feel she was an Awaken with great power. Power for which Kachina always had respect.
That was the first time she had the luxury to be in a box at the Opera and Kachina surely enjoyed watching and listening to it. Though cautious of her surrounding, she felt very safe and comfortable around the people in the Box.
Saint James finally explained his business. It certainly caught our attention, Saint James. And I would have preferred to meet for a different occasion. However rest assured that I would do whatever necessary to also find out what happened to Lyle. From a previous exchange, I feel confident to say that most if not all of us here are on the same boat.
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Kumiho tilts his head to one said, thinking over what Mr. James has said. At some point during the evening he had shifted his sitting position from one where both of his feet were on the group to one where he sat cross legged on the seat cushion, wedged between the arm rests. When Mr. James had begun to speak he had turned the jammer back on, having only paused its function for a time -as was suggested to him - out of respect to the performers.
" You say that you found our dear friend in a state - which was later found the Knight Errant investigators. Were their any clues that you saw that they may have over looked or that you removed from the scene?"
He pauses for a second before saying
" You are correct, Lyle was a friend. He helped me get settled when I first came to Seattle. So i owe him much."
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Tanya smiles at Elsa. "Thank you ever so much. I am honored to meet you as well, and please, it is just Tanya. The title came as an accident of birth. I use it on formal occasions, but prefer to use just my name in gatherings like this."
Tanya welcomes the last arrival as he passes through the curtain to Box 1B. Holding out her hand she says, "You must be Mr. Kelsey; please call me Tanya. Welcome to my box. You are just in time. I was afraid that you would miss the first act. Please help yourself to some champaign and snacks. The curtain is about to go up." After welcoming the last of her guests, Tanya takes her seat and watches the first act through to the intermission. The Nightingale is a good opera and this troupe does it as expertly as any she had seen. They were truly deserving of the ovation at intermission.
As the audience below the box begins to disperse out to the lobby for refreshments and mingling, she turns to the group, watching the others and listening to them talk without saying anything. She sips at her champaign and takes the opportunity to assess the other guests and see where she might fit in. As yet they were unknowns and strangers. Lyle had used them, but she had never been partnered with any of them on any of her activities. And, apparently contrary to some of the others, she has almost no knowledge of Saint James and is trying to get a feel for him as well.
-
Saint James nods at Mother and listens to Kumiha. He takes a moment to consider his words before speaking again.
"The scene itself did not provide any clues as to differentiate between one professional asset and any other, unfortunately, at least not to my eyes. I am no trained forensics analyst, I fear, and my time in the apartment was short."
"I was there for a weekly dinner he and I share, to go over business," he adds, forestalling that question.
"I have worked with Lyle for many years and am privy to many of his secrets. So when I saw what had happened, I quickly grabbed the one item that he both would not want Knight Errant to get a hold of and that might hold the clues to the case."
With that, he produces a small green notebook and holds it open, his eyes scanning a few lines before closing it and looking back at the group.
"There are secrets in here. Some have been given to him, freely and with trust. Others he worked to discover, even for those he considered friends. But whether you told him or he dug it up, Whether you knew he knew or he never told you, he kept those secrets to himself.
"You don't have reason to trust me, yet, perhaps... but I assure you that you five, at least, may trust me. The secrets Lyle penned in this book will never be shared.
"Which brings us back to you. Of all of Lyle's contacts... of the skillsets in this book, favors owed, relationships built, I have determined that it is you five who are most likely, and capable, to assist in the matter of determined not only who killed Lyle... but why. He had no enemies that I knew of and I am certain he would have told me."
He tucks the notebook back into his left inner breast pocket.
"So, what it comes down to is this. My friend Lyle Green is dead... I am cashing in his chips, so to speak, with you. Now, I am not without my own resources and I do not expect you to operate without fair compensation. But I must know... are you in? Will you repay the man who has done so much for you in the shadows?"
He stops then, looking to each in turn.
-
Kumiho nods mostly to himself and then looks Mr. James in the eyes.
" Yes, a course. My skills are up to the task and my will is resolute towards this goal. 화이팅!", he raising a fist before at the last (sounds like Paiting).
-
Mother raises an eyebrow at the mention of the book.
Dear Lord Lyle could have anything on me in that book and now this Saint James has it. Talk about negotiating from strength.
What I wouldn't give to see what's in that book. said Mother smiling.
I loved Lyle as I am sure we all did but I need to keep the rent paid and the lights on. You've definitely got my attention so what do you consider fair?
-
Tanya listens to James's words and then the responses from two of the others before saying. "Lyle was a good friend. I would like to say that I am certainly in to see that he gets justice." She looks around at the others, then back to the older gentleman. "I actually would be interested in knowing what he wrote about me. Could you read it aloud? I am sure that in this group there is little that I would feel embarrassed or guilty about."
-
Everyone had secrets. Their life as a shadowrunner in itself was shroud with secrecy and deception. Kachina couldn't remember mentioning anything to Lyle about how she went from a bright looking career in a NAN Military Special Unit to running the shadows but somehow wouldn't be surprise to find that in that green book. She hated remembering those events; remembering how she failed everyone and everything she cared for in the span of a few hours... Her people, her unit, her values.
If Lyle got killed for some or one of those secrets, you are taking big risks holding onto them. But on the other hand, that book needs to stay in safe hands. We will do everything we can to resolve this mystery, and thank you for your generosity in this.
She looked at the silent Elf. All they needed for him was to acknowledge his consent too.
-
Requiem nodded once, he was in. He recognised the value of loyalty in a world that had precious little of it...
-
Requiem mused about the people around him. He would probably have done this job pro bono, perhaps with something to cover expenses, but the lady was right, the bills still had to be paid, and besides he wasn’t about to step on anyone else’s toes, this wasn’t his gig to command and he didn’t know these people… yet.
“My skills do not lie in investigative work and tracking, so if I am here you are expecting violence, possible a great deal of violence. If, or perhaps I should say when, we manage to find those responsible, do you have an agenda for what becomes of them? I recognise that your response may vary depending on the eventual target but I would like to establish some basic parameters. I don’t normally undertake wetwork but this is personal…” and he left it hanging on that note…
-
"Lady Marisart, while I am sure you truly are not concerned, now is not the time for sharing," James smiles, graciously. "And I am appreciative of your collective willingness to go forward.
"In his book, there is mention of a security company, Return Safe Ltd. I have attempted to have a friend simply locate the records I need, but it appears to be an unusually tough nut to crack. Public records are clean, far too clean. Ownership consists of several individuals, some of whom are, interestingly enough, deceased. Dead men do not own property."
He looks them all over, his expression neutral. "I believe that the information we will need will be stored on site, or if not, at least a clue as to where we should look. It is my expectation, then, that you enter their offices and find what you can. Return to me with the information you find and we will determine our next move.
"As befits your skill, I have budgeted 60,000 nuyen for the task. To demonstrate my own dedication to this cause," he reaches into his right breast pocket and pulls out a single gold credstick, "I offer all of that amount up front, in full." He sets it on the rail.
"Do you have any questions? While I should love to stay for the end of the show, I have other engagements I must attend."
-
A man must be very trusting or very sure his desires will be carried out to put that amount of nuyen up front, and I do not believe you are a very trusting man. It is unfortunate that you have to go. I was hoping to get to know you and you are going to miss one hell of a show. said Mother smiling.
-
Kumiho nods ad seems as surprised as everyone else to be paid up front. But then again - Lyle would have trusted him and maybe the others that far.. maybe.
He leans forward, his mind already racing ahead of him;
" This friend you had try to get records for you. Do they work for this company? An inside man as it were. And if so, could we use that asset our selves?
-
Saint James smiles apologetically at Mother. "Unfortunate, if only there were all the time in the world for distractions."
After Kumiha speaks, he shakes his head. "No, he is a matrix expert, but he operates exclusively via the virtual realm. If the information is, as I suspect, stored on site and off of the grid, it is a task for... well... you."
-
Well, that was real now. The team was there and they had there first mission/run waiting for them. Would the other accept her desire to lead the team? She had as much work to do as the other to prove their skills. But they were all professionals and she had no much doubt in their skills. Pressure was on her.
She looked at the credstick on the rail, definitely not a place to let 60,000 nuyens stay. She extended her hand and the stick went flying into it. Outside her her commlink hidden under the fabric of her dress, she had no pockets. She passed the credstick on to the Korean man. If he was the one in charge of the Matrix world he would be the most appropriate to keep the money safe.
James, when would you expect or suggest that infiltration to be done? what sort of timeframe do you have in mind?
-
Kumiho, accepts the Credit Stick from the apparent mage. He stows it the inside breast pocket of his tux until later.
-
"I trust you will set your own suitable time frame. You are no doubt as eager as I to get to the bottom of this."
-
Tanya smiles at James. She had not really expected the man to give the information away. She is a bit surprised at the offer to pay 60k up front. "How do we let you know what we have found?"
She acknowledges Elsa taking the cred stick and passing it on. She is comfortable giving leadership to another, knowing that her expertise lies in other areas. She looks at the others and says, "Well, do we remain for the second part of the opera? I have seen if before and while this is a very good presentation of it, I do not need to remain to the end if the rest of you would like to move to a place where we can plan. I do have such a place to offer, if the rest of you would give it consideration. My flat is large enough to accommodate us and does include a planning room that we can utilize to work out our strategy. I am certainly willing to host us there and can call my maid to have refreshments available. By the way, her name is Monique and I trust her with my life. She has helped plan most of my activities for years."
Tanya looks around at the others, "Of course, I can go elsewhere if the rest of you object or have a better location in mind. I would also offer a ride to whatever meeting place we choose to anyone who took a cab or walked here."
-
I would like to slot that credstick first if you don't mind and I am sure you have lovely accommodations.
-
I am guess we are all going to be to pre-occupied to sit through the rest of the show. Yes, lets continue at a safe location where we as a team can iron out the details and get started.
-
Tanya eyes the revealed sorceress with a new respect. A woman who is willing to expose her magical nature to strangers is a confident woman indeed. The Native American woman's attractiveness is an added bonus, but Tanya pushes that urge aside for the moment. She looks about at the other four and says, "I know that Lyle would not surround himself with weak or unskilled people and that all of you are very likely to have impressive skill sets. I do hope that my somewhat prosaic skills can contribute to our joint endeavor." The lights in the auditorium dim twice. "I would point out that the dimming lights indicate that the intermission is about to end We have about five minutes to leave the auditorium before they shut the doors, at which time we will have no choice but to wait out the opera."
Tanya waits to see if Delila is pleased with the cred stick tally and looks to Elsa to see if she will step up and make the decision as to where to go, or if to go. She moves to where the two as yet unopened bottles of bubbly are chilling in the ice. "I will take these if we leave as they are paid for and the '59 is a very good vintage. The snacks are ours as well if anyone should care to take some."
-
Mother nods as she sees that the nuyen stored on the credstick does indeed equal 60,000. She waits to transfer, not sure how the others want to parse the expenses that might crop up.
"It's as advertised," she announces.
They gather their things and vacate the box. As they leave, Tanya sends a quick message to Alphonse, which is almost immediately acknowledged. Walking out, Mother notices that her data tap is missing from where she put it. She wonders if it was taken before or after Ter0r managed their mischief.
"I have a car, if any of you have need of transportation," Tanya says, as they exit the theater. A Rolls Royce Phaeton comes around the corner and stops in front of the group.
As Tanya gets in the spacious vehicle in the back seat, the driver can be heard to ask, "Where to, Ma'am?"
-
Tanya slides into the comfort of the huge limousine and waits to see if others will join her. "For those of you that have your own transportation, you can join us at the Gates Undersound. Guest parking is available in the adjoining garage. Please use my name, Tanya Marisart, to get a space. I will wait in the front lobby to escort you to the suite." While waiting for the others to decide how they are getting there, Tanya sends a note to the hotel as she remembers that Monique has the evening off. She requests that room service be available for a party of five in suite U3A when she arrives. <Light refreshments of juices and water will for starters, but there may be additional orders later. Thank you oh so much.>
Tanya turns to Alphonse, "We will be going home, Alphonse. I have a couple of guests that may be returning with me."
-
Part of Kachina wanted to stay to watch the rest. It was the first time at the Opera and it has been quite an experience. However she knew the Korean was right, too much would be in her mind.
Thank you for the offer Tanya. I have my own car, not much to speak about it'll take me plus one where ever needs be. I'll follow you.
She was very foreign to the opulence Tanya was offering. She'd had learn to blend in, but she was more used to her tiny apartment close to the barrens that could barely hold her magical lodge.
And all was confirmed when the team all arrived at the luxurious hotel Tanya was staying in.
-
Kumiho turns off the Jammer now that business is done for the moment, then pulls out a collapsible bike helmet. He shoulders his bag and heads out.
I too brought my own vehicle and will follow you.
-
I will just hold on to this credstick for the moment and ride with the lady if no one minds.
-
Tanya takes note of Elsa's reluctance to leave and correctly interprets it not as a weakness, but as a hidden desire to experience the pleasure of the opera. She can well remember her own look at her first one. Before they leave the box, she leans over to the sorceress. "There is more opera coming in the near future. I will send you an invite when something interesting comes to town. I would love to introduce you to this sort of entertainment. Think about it and let me know if you are interested."
At the auto, Tanya nods to those making their own way and welcomes Delila and Byron as they get in the limousine. During the ride, she offers water to the other two and sits back to observe them. She will play the hostess and try to get her guests to open up a bit about themselves if they are willing, but will respect their privacy if they indicate that is their desire. When she arrives at the hotel she waits in the lobby for the two who drove themselves to gather then leads everyone to the private elevators to the sub-floors. The group emerges from the elevator on U3 and walks along the plushly carpeted hallway to Suite A, where she unlocks the door and ushers her guests inside. As expected, the concierge has already delivered the light refreshments. Tanya welcomes all into the living room and says, "I had forgotten that I gave Monique the night off so had room service drop some things by. Please let me know if there is anything you would like me to order up and do make yourselves at home. I am going to change into something more comfortable." She looks about at the rest then says, "How rude of me. I do rather expect that everyone would like to change out of their posh clothes. Elsa, you and I are very close to the same body form so I think that you can wear just about any of my things. Delila, your height means that my jeans will not fit, but I do have some shorts and tees that will do nicely. Hmmm, boys, I can get both of you something to wear that does not look too feminine, if you want out of your finery and into something more comfortable." She puts her bottles in the wine cooler and goes to the large drapes. Pushing the button causes the drapes to retract to the side, exposing the floor to ceiling window that looks into the water of the sound. At this time of the night, hidden lights illuminate the water and the fish.
Tanya disappears into her bedroom and re-emerges a couple of minutes later with jeans and tees that should fit both of the men if they were interested. She points to one of the doors leading off from the large living room. "You two may use that bedroom to change in. It is vacant at the moment." She moves back to the door to the master bedroom and holds it open, motioning for Elsa and Delila to come with her. "We can change in here." In the bedroom, Tanya opens the doors to the large closet and points to the dresser. "Please rummage about to find something you like. There are some nice shirts and blouses hanging in there and jeans and more shirts in the dresser." A few minutes later the women emerge in jeans and tee shirts or blouses. Tanya moves to unlock the planning room and shows everyone to the long table that she uses to lay out diagrams and blueprints. She motions to the table and says, "We should be able to work in here. I use the space for planning my own activities. Now, I do think that it is important that we at least trust each other enough to offer up what we can add to the group in skills. I will start if no one objects. To put it briefly, I steal things. I have an array of mechanical devices and skills that allow me to break into "secure" locations and then steal what I wish. I am certain that I am not the best in the world at this, perhaps not even in Seattle, but I am pretty bloody good at it. I usually do not go in for wet work and try to leave without being detected. However, I can defend myself if necessary. I do not really have a street name; going by Tanya, but I understand that is popular for runners. I hope that it is not out of place to ask how people would like to be called among ourselves. As it is, I really only know any of you by the name that James asked me to put on the opera admission tickets." She looks about the room and adds, "So, any questions for me?"
-
"What lovely accomodations. Thank you. You may call me Mother."
-
Tanya nods to the woman. "Thank you, Mother. And do you have anything to share with us about your skill set? I feel that if all of you know more of what I can do, what each of us can do, that we can plan better on how to find and break into this office James mentioned and procure the information we are looking for." She looks around and continues, "I most certainly do not wish to push my name forward to be the face here, not appear bossy. Please accept my humble apologies if I appear to be doing either. I just think that it is bloody important that we know enough about each other to be effective. And I should have said earlier that besides breaking and entering, I am a dab hand at forgery, specializing in fake IDs.. I can also do a good work up on other documents if I have an example to work from and some time."
"I am a fan of working out a good plan, because plans can save lives and I would certainly like to live long enough to spend my share of the 60K."
-
Kumiho parks his motorcycle, jacking out as he does, and rides the elevator up with the others. He looks around a Tanya's decor gaining insight into the woman through her tastes in art and aesthetics. When she returns wearing more comfortable clothing, he notes this as well.
He takes a seat around the table when lead into the planning room and listens patiently to Tanya layout her skillset for the group.
I too offer my thanks for allowing us to conduct business within your home., he slightly bows towards Tanya.
As Mr. James stated, I will be of most use to retrieve any information stored on their off-line hosts. I am a Decker with some skill with drones - though only surveillance. However, I have been well trained in protecting myself as well as being helpful in firearm based combat. I am Called Kumiho.
Kumiho wonders if anyone here is into the underground matrix art scene and would even recognize the name.
-
Tanya listens to the Korean talk. Returning his slight bow, she says, "You are very welcome to my home. I am impressed, Kumiho. I have a good friend who is a hacker of some ability and she has told me more than once that rigging and decking together would be great but is a bit beyond her. I have worked with both in my line of work. It is such a pleasure to have the micro drones looking about and keeping tabs on things that would only be a distraction for me, and there are certainly alarm and security systems that I need help with." She is momentarily lost in thought before snapping her fingers. "Kumiho. Kuhimo. Where have I........ Of course. Kumiho. I had wondered where I had heard that name before. My friend, Cora Lee the hacker I just spoke of, is a great fan of yours. She has told me more than once how much she would love to meet you. Apparently you are some sort of underground matrix art genius. She has shown me some of your work and I am impressed. I would consider it a personal favor if you would agree to meet her sometime."
-
Kumiho blushes, bowing his head.
Aigoo. Art Genus is a bit much. I just follow the flow of the matrix pulse, as it were.
-
I am a practictioner of voodoo but I can walk softly and shoot straight.
Mother calls her car to park at the hotel so she can retreive her weapons.
-
Tanya nods, "Voodoo? A good friend of mine in Seattle just did a feature article on a man named King Willy. He uses voodoo, or at least the article said so. He uses a loa, or something like that, right? So what sort of magic spells can you cast?"
-
A girl can't divulge all her secrets. I have a few illusion spells that I think will come in handy. I have some offensive ones if need be. A little of this and little of that.
-
Kachina followed Tanya and Mother to the room. Tanya's selection of clothes was impressive and almost made the Native woman ashamed of the handful of outfits that would fight for space in her crammed apartment.
After placing her commlink on a shelf, she without any sort hesitation unhook and dropped her dress on the floor, revealing her beautiful body. Not very muscular or even toned she had very charming proportions for her tiny body. Her hips were a bit more prominent but it gave her the right curves at the right place. Two tattoos were attractive the attention. An intricate dreamcatcher covered most of her chest, while a beautiful and mysterious looking Native American woman portrait was covering her left shoulder. Though not shy about showing her almost naked body she quickly covered it with a selection of clothes from Tanya's collection. A comfortable pair of jeans and a shirt that she tied up above her stomach, the few op buttons open to reveal part of her chest tattoo.
Back in the meeting room, she stood and looked at each one of the other team, with a chilling intensity. Though petite, she had such a presence in the room, it was difficult to ignore. She addressed the group with a non-hesitant voice that clearly showed sign of a background in the Military.
Tanya, your hospitality, prose and knowledge is to be recommended; be sure that we are all here very appreciative and impressed by it. Your talents will be of great use for many of our missions. And your ability to combine thieving skills with face skills is a formidable asset.
My name is Kachina Powaka, which translate to the Spirit Witch in my Hopi language. Most runners shorten it to 'Kay' though, and I don't mind it. I was trained as a Shaman and part of a Special Unit in the Pueblo Council Army that I was leading. We were used for scouting and data extraction: I am specialized in all forms of interrogation techniques. I am competent with automatic weapons. but most importantly, I'm a follower of the mighty Thunderbird who provides me with most of my spellcasting abilities. I speak to the Spirits and somehow they have great interest in me. They help me with great compassion. And I am sure they will gladly extend their help to the entire team.
Mother, your ability to also communicate with the Spirit World is formidable. I am curious to learn about your craft and beliefs. Like Tanya mentioned the more we know about your prowess, the easier it will be to plan a run without second guessing the possibilities. As I said, my abilities come from the Thunderbird, whether it is flying or sending lighting bolts at my enemies. I can make anyone look like someone they're not and see far away without regard for the obstructions in front of me. The Thunderbird helps me with Healing and boosting of abilities
I volunteer to take charge of the mission parameters and lead the team throughout the run. Among such professional runners, it would be a honor.
.
-
While changing clothes in the bedroom, Tanya is drawn to Elsa's beauty. Her eyes play over the tattoo on the other woman's chest, lingering for perhaps a few seconds too long, and she barely resists running a hand down her bare back as she turns to look at the clothes available. There is no denying that Tanya is attracted to her new acquaintance, but she pulls back from saying anything for the time being. She does not know the woman well enough to assume she enjoys experimenting with other women and does not want any hard feelings to get in the way of the mission at hand. She is very glad that her guess about Elsa being able to fit into her clothes was pretty spot on.
Once in the planning room, she listens to Elsa, no Kachina, talk and nods her head in acknowledgment of the thanks for providing the place to do the planning. She thinks to herself, *So now we have at least two mages of some kind. I know from Cora Lee that Kumiho is a well-known decker and matrix artist. That leaves Byron. I wonder what his specialty is? And Kachina has stepped up to be group lead. I am willing to give her the chance. Certainly leadership is not my strong suit.*
Tanya waits to see if the quiet Elf will volunteer any information. So far he has remained mostly quiet. The time waiting gives her the opportunity to think on Kachina's words about changing faces. Such a talent would be invaluable in Tanya's line of work. She resolves to tread carefully with this one, as her continued friendship could lead to something quite useful, as well as something quite nice romantically.
-
Requiem arched an eyebrow at Spirit Witch’s pronouncement but didn’t comment. So this was Spirit Witch from Needle? He returned to the others in jogging trousers and a loose fitting tee over his whipcord frame which only accentuated the vat grown musculature. He seemed equally unabashed by the snub nosed pistol strapped to the inside of his forearm or the mass of scar tissue that was clearly visible. Catching a glance he muttered something about “those that live by the sword…”
Folding himself comfortably into one of the chairs across from the others he said
“My handle is Requiem. As I alluded to at the Opera I specialise in the precise application of violence. I’m not a thug, I’ve been a professional soldier longer than most of you have been alive. As we are being so honest with one another, and I applaud the trust being shown, I will tell you that I served as a Sergeant with Firewatch in Chicago. I still have the nightmares to match the scars. I’ve parted formal company with Ares some time ago and I have been lucky enough to run with the Balefire crew here in Seattle for the last three years. Something that has taught me the benefits of magical intel. If Kay is willing to lead us then I second her…”
-
Tanya smiles at Requiem's words. She rolls the words around on her tongue; precise application of violence. She likes it. She also likes that he jumped in and seconded Kachina as leader. She turns to the Native sorceress and says, "Well, we certainly have talent here. So, Kay, how do we get this done?"
-
So I imagine that ...what was your name again? Kumiho darling? will see what he can find on the matrix for this Return safe was it? Then we call our contacts and ask them what they know."
-
Yes, I will be calling someone about that; I have not encountered a "Return Safe" before - however, a friend of mine may have.
Kumiho speaks as he pulls out his deck from his bag. He start to set up his deck but pauses as a thought comes to him.
Mr. James did say that his own Decker did not find anything he was looking on their online hosts. So I think the more we know about Return Safe LTD's physical location, the better. So once I have a conversation with a few friends I will dig up the buildings layout - not a sure bet to what we can encounter, but better than nothing.
Kumiho flicks the on Switch of his Hermes Chariot that has been painted up with art work inspired by early Japanese Kaiju movies., his augmented eyes taking on a slightly distant look.
-
Tanya looks at Kumiho. "Great start. Blueprints and the location of the building and who they share it with would help. And anything that can give us an idea of the security systems and locks that we may have to bypass." She activates her comm and sends a message off to Petra and a similar one to Ni Ni. <Petra, dear. I am wondering if you have ever had reason to do a report on a company called Return Safe? Still coming over later? Got a small group at home working on a problem, but could sure use the company in a couple of hours. Give you a call when all are gone.> <Ni Ni, love, does the Octagon have any information on a company named Return Safe? Please let me know if so. Love you.>
Tanya stands and looks around. I can go get some refreshments if anyone wants anything? I am a firm believer in letting the experts do their thing. By the way, there is a bathroom just over there and another in the living room near the entrance."
-
Kachina truly felt good to hear Requiem second her without any hesitation. None had objected either and it seemed the team had put their trust in each other which was a big part of her job as a leader.
Requiem, an impressive resume you have here. Firewatch is among the elite.
She leaned over with both hand supporting her on the table. We have a strong team covering quite a broad spectrum of skills, I feel some of us may have other acquaintances in common but overall we or our respective contacts should cover a wide range of knowledge and expertise.
Kumiho, send at least the location of the offices, that should be easy to locate. Mother, can you project? What do you say you and I go get a feel of the space once we know where? We'll have a companion for the trip. No risk taking, just a little casual snoop around, see if they have any ward or spirit protection at night. Requiem, see if you can find out if they subcontract any firm for their security or if they use they own assets, and if so data on these assets would be a bonus. Tanya, focus on the people if you can. The ones alive and the dead. All official records may be clean, but rumors and gossip may go a long way. Maybe we can fine some link between someone and Lyle or a mutual business interest. It could give us a more precise objective once inside.
She was waiting for Kumiho's information to get an idea of where to go once projected astrally, but meanwhile she had to contact someone close who might have some secrets to share. She used her trodes disguised as her headband to mentally contact Barnaby. <<Hello sweetheart. This is your favorite Witch. I hope you're not causing too much trouble to outlaws, not all of them are bad you know. Anyway. A friend asked me for a favor and I thought maybe you would know something I could use to help him. Return Safe Ltd, a security company. Very clean records, outside of dead owners. Do you have anything on them out of public records? I'm not going to mention this is urgent, it is what it is... you know. Thanks B.>>
-
“Firewatch was a long time ago…the memories are better left buried”
He pulled out his Avalon so that he could see it more easily and cradling the tiny piece of plastic in his hand. The AR glove slipped on and he began swiping through the menus projected in his mind’s eye via the optics in his contacts. Silk would tease him for avoiding the trodes but he preferred not feeling the band around his head. It was all very well for VR where his senses were absorbed by the matrix or in combat where they were built into his helm but he found the physical motions soothing and he didn’t need to save on precious milliseconds here…
<<@Silk [Requiem]: Silk, honey, any chance you could put some feelers out on a sec company called Return Safe Ltd? I could do with any intel you could have on their own internal security procedures, resistance we might expect, you know the kind of thing. This new crew seem to know what they are doing. It’s no Balefire yet but it has the makings of a solid foundation!>>
<<@Requiem [Silk]: Don’t ‘honey’ me old man! I’ll see what I can do…>>
He smiled to himself, glad that the awkwardness between them was gone. He briefly regretted the demise of their closer relationship but not without the wisdom of knowing that things were better now…
-
Tanya nods as she leaves the room. She is gone a couple of minutes, returning with a tray of bottled water and juices, which she places on the counter. Not wishing to disturb anyone who is deep into conversation with one contact or another, she simply points to the carafes and some glasses before taking her seat. She mentally thumbs her Caliban on and begins to search the public records for Return Safe, trying to determine what the public face of the company is and who is at the masthead. This might at least give her the names to research. While the link is looking through the matrix, Tanya looks around at her companions and studies them a bit. Lyle must have trusted all of them, so that is a big plus in their favor
-
[Saturday, 207505112214L]
@ Kumiho
So once I have a conversation with a few friends I will dig up the buildings layout - not a sure bet to what we can encounter, but better than nothing.
With that, Kumiho places a couple of calls. Zip responds first.
Hello, Fox! I am glad to hear from you. Are we doing something fun today? The usual diffidence of the persona is cast aside for Kumiho and a contained exuberance can be felt.
Yes, if we can. I have something that needs looking into... Kumiho lays out the issue and requests Zip to see what she can dig up. She nods and, true to her name, zips away.
A moment later, MacAllister's response buzzes in, What's up?
@ Mother
Thinking on the folks she might be able to call, Mother discounts King Willy immediately. The man operates in such a niche that he wouldn't have any reason to know anything about a private security company. Trying to call Ter0r, she is slightly discomfited by the fact that they don't answer. She leaves a message asking where they are.
Finally, she calls Revere.
What's up?"
Mother explains the situation. "Return Safe, hey? Actually, that rings a bell, let me get back to you on that?"
@ Kachina
<<Hello sweetheart. This is your favorite Witch. I hope you're not causing too much trouble to outlaws, not all of them are bad you know. Anyway. A friend asked me for a favor and I thought maybe you would know something I could use to help him. Return Safe Ltd, a security company. Very clean records, outside of dead owners. Do you have anything on them out of public records? I'm not going to mention this is urgent, it is what it is... you know. Thanks B.>>
For my favorite injun wiz-kid? I'll look into it. 'Return Safe Ltd.', let's see what I can scrounge up.
@ Tanya
<Petra, dear. I am wondering if you have ever had reason to do a report on a company called Return Safe? Still coming over later? Got a small group at home working on a problem, but could sure use the company in a couple of hours. Give you a call when all are gone.>
A few moments later, a return message is sent in. It doesn't bring anything to mind, but I can look through the reports. Look forward to your call!
<Ni Ni, love, does the Octagon have any information on a company named Return Safe? Please let me know if so. Love you.>
Shortly thereafter, a return message from Ni Ni comes through. Return Safe? I haven't heard of it. I can reach out to my people and see what the word is on the street.
@ All
Having sent out a few feelers, there is little more to do than to wait. Especially for Kumiha's data search... he mentions it shouldn't take him more than a couple of hours...
-
Mother enjoys a beverage and snacks.
I guess now we wait? Tanya you have to tell me how you got these fancy digs. I am obviously not getting the right jobs. I'm going to step out to my car to change into something a little more comfortable. No offense to the Lady but I am very picky when it comes to fashion.
Mother goes down to her car and puts on her sleeping tiger ladies suit, her arm slide with the executive action, an puts the streetline in her pocket.
-
Tanya looks at Mother and chuckles. Waving her hand about the room, she says, "I got this the really old fashioned way; I inherited it. Sort of. When I was 18, my parents and brothers died in an auto accident. I survived it, mostly. My father's money was entailed to the estate and so went to a male cousin, which is too bad because it was a bloody great pot of money. My mother's money had been held in trust for her children and as the only one that lived I got it all. Again, sort of. It is still in a trust and is managed by my cousin. Don't get me wrong, it is still a lot of money and I get this place, some really neato perks, and a spending allowance. And from the papers I have to sign every year, these expenses are not even touching the principal of the trust. Of course, Cousin Jeremy does not really understand a woman's needs and so I do.......odd jobs....... to supplement my allowance. So far I am doing well enough to keep me in the life I am accustomed to."
When Mother says that she is going out, Tanya responds, "No offense taken. I ought to walk you out, though. Without a special key, you can't use the elevators to get back down to this level." She walks with Mother to the lobby and waits for her to return. She eyes the other woman when she reappears. "Sleeping Tiger? That looks good on you. So do you like the Vashon Island lines? I have one of their Steampunk outfits that I like to wear on occasion. Perhaps we could compare notes on frocks some time."
-
I adore my sleeping tiger. It's fashionable and keeps the bullets out plus the ruthenium coating is helpful for when you need to slip away.
-
While Requiem waited for Silk to do her thing he settled into the luxurious chair and took up the virtual book he'd been meaning to complete for ages. He'd seen other runners fret at this stage of events but preferred to maintain his cool...
-
Tanya smiles at Mother and nods. "Some very good reasons to like an outfit. Shall we return to the room?" She walks with Mother back to the elevator and to the suite. Enroute she sends a text to Petra, <Petra. Tanya. Sorry to disappoint, but it looks like the meeting will go longer than expected. We are all trying to get some information on this Return Safe company. If you have something juicy on the company just swing on by and share. You can come by anyway, if you like. By the way, do you know anything about someone named Saint James? He is supposed to be some great nabob in the shadows, but I have only barely heard of him. I think I should know more, especially since he seems to be a Brit. Get back to me if you can and come on over.>
Once back in the suite, Tanya walks among her guests, quietly asking if they need any refreshments. She is used to the wait for information and her calm is natural and assured.
-
Kachina wanted to wait for all the information Kumiho sould bring before adventuring in the Astral Space around the establishment.
Seeing Tanya and Mother returning, she interrupted the group.
So...while we wait... I really appreciate you hosting us here Tanya. I think for the future we should not jeopardize your own apartment/suite/castle whatever you call it and a repeated presence here could just do so. Mind you this is a splendid place, but it would be really hard to bring in weaponry unnoticed or at least without taking unnecessary chances.
Therefore, I think it would be good if we find a secure and more or less isolated GQ for the team. Maybe a warehouse by the docks or some place where we could go back and forth without catching too much attention.
Do you guys know anyone who could get us such location?
Also I think it would be good if some of the revenue from this run be spent on the team while the rest, and by that I mean rent or bribe for the location, equipment that we may need for the run itself and other general bribes we may need. I was thinking $20,000 could go in the pot and each would get $8000 'salary'. Not the most one could get, but it would help the team get set up. What do you guys think?
-
I think you're getting a little ahead of yourself sugar. We have never worked together before and as much as Lyle may have recommended you I have never worked with you before. Let's see how this run goes and then think about whether we want to spend that kind of cash.
-
"I have a disposable pad on the edge of Redmond which isn't linked to me. You're welcome to use that as a base of operations if that would be an acceptable compromise?"
-
Tanya nods at Kachina's comment. "Thank you for your consideration. Yes, it would be difficult to use this flat as a base of any kind. I had just thought it would do for our initial meet, though. Thank you, Requiem, for offering an alternate. To be honest, I must say that I have never even really contemplated being in a group for more than one event. The concept is intriguing, but I do think that in this case I agree with Mother. I think that we should wait to see if we can get along and if we want to remain as a group. If we do, I certainly have no issue with skimming the top off the pot to provide for the team expenses."
"Has anyone come up with any information yet? Sadly, my contacts are still looking so I have nothing to share."
Tanya will curl up on one of the chairs and check to see what her data search for the public information on the company has revealed. She is looking for the names and faces of the company leadership.
-
[Saturday, 207505112302L]
@ Tanya
A message from Petra comes in. If you've got a lot of company, then I'll leave you to it. I checked on Return Safe, the best I could do is that it's a brand new company, only a few months old. As for Saint James, he has come up in the news before. He's an influential investor in Seattle, mostly local businesses. Also a bit of a philanthropist. Looks like the 'Saint' moniker is apt. As for 'shadow' ties, he's managed to keep himself in the light, it appears. Good luck with whatever it is you guys are up to! Don't get hurt.
@ Requiem
Silk returns to Requiem. Hey, it's really funny. The place has pretty no much no record at all. Must be new. I've managed to see who owns it, mostly folks who have 'trusts'... but I can only manage to find about 40% of the controlling interests. Makes me think there is something else going on.
@Kumiho
As he continues his data search for the Host of the company, a message chirps in from MacAllister, Got nothing on Return Safe? You sure it's a real thing?
-
Kumiho sits in the meeting room deep in the matrix, shifting pixels and looking under data streams for his query.
I sure hope it is Oame. Once I find it I'll post its Virtual Address up on Needle for everyone. Thanks for your help though. Let me know if you need help with anything.
-
Tanya is a bit disappointed at not seeing Petra tonight, but sends her a reply. <Petra, love. Thanks for being understanding. Please drop by for brunch. And thanks for looking onto Return Safe. Oddly enough, everyone seems to be hitting a similar wall. Ta.> She continues working her link to try to get some sort of data on the company and its officers, but it appears that there really is very little public information available.
From time to time she pauses to look about at her new comrades, trying to get a feel for them. Kachina had raised a point about forming a long-term team, something she had never really considered before. Maybe these people could accept her and her ways. She carefully observes the Native sorceress, thinking through her emotions about the attractive woman. And the Keeb intrigues her as well. He seems to be the deep, quiet sort that can erupt in violence at any time it is needed, but does not seem to rely on it. She resolves to take at least a step and, rising from her chair, goes over to the man. She kneels beside him and says in a low tone, "You have been pretty quiet. Is there anything I can get you? I hope it is not too impertinent to say that you have the form of a climber. Do you? She has the grace to blush a bit then adds, "I mean, do you do some climbing?"
-
Well, she wasn't expected everyone to back her up like Requiem did. She's have to work hard to make everyone want to stay and be part of the team. For now she'll take the fact that at least no one had openly rejected her offering to lead.
Fair enough. Let's this how this run pans out and how we all get along or not. I am confident we'll all have interests in sticking with each others.
For now let's make sure we can get as much info we can on this elusive company. As soon as Kumiho sends me the physical location of the company I'll go give a quick glance.
Mother, you didn't answer, do you have the ability to project your consciousness to the Spirit world?
-
[Saturday, 207505112341L]
Mother nods at Kachina's question. I can indeed do that.
@ Kachina
As the team considers the information that they already have, Mason sends her a quick message.
"Hey, so I checked into that company. Didn't find much, but I did find the name of the... 'CEO'. Jason Bridges. And he checks out, really tidy. Too tidy if you ask me. But I couldn't find any holes in the last hour or so, so I don't have any proof, just a hunch I got. I could keep looking into it for you, but that's going to take resources, so you let me know if that's a project you want me to take on."
@ Tanya
At around the same time, NiNi returns with very little information. Sorry Tanya, but that's just not on our RADAR. Maybe it's not in our territory?"
@ Mother
Revere finally calls back, "I knew I heard that name before. One of our guys was talking about it. His heart wasn't really in the 'cause', I guess. Someone offered him a steady paycheck and a chance to go 'legit'. That's what he said, anyway. Something about consulting for a company called 'Return Safe.' Guy went by the handle 'Diode.' Was a halfway decent matrix jockey, but no big loss since we've got plenty of em. Anyway, that's all I remember.
@ All
Mother relays the information she just got to the others.
-
Kumiho sits for several hours immersed in the matrix hunting down his prey. When he comes out of it he gets up and looks for something to drink - his throat having become dry over time. He then returns to the meeting room, with a glass of water in hand, he begins to stretch taunt muscles while telling the others what he has found.
Even if this company was not tied to the death of Lyle it is worth looking into on it own. Most of my time was spent finding their IP and physical location. However, i was able to ultimately track them down and obtain the layout of the building. i am still waiting to hear back from my one contact, but so far very little is known of this Business and few have ever heard of it.
Tapping a few key strokes on his commlink, he sends the physical address to Tanya's commlink. I believe the ext step will be for you to scout out the location.
Kumiho begins to stretches his legs, but stops after a moment, I should probably accompany you, and see what kind of people enter and exit their building - see what kind of info might be present on their commlinks.
-
Tanya nods, "Thank you Kumiho. My contacts are all giving thumbs down on results for this company. It appears to exist in void of public information. I agree that our next step is to determine the location and types of buildings near or next to this one. A physical look-see might let me know what sort of entry points are available to use, so I would like to see if we can get eyes higher than the roof, perhaps from a near-by building that is taller. It might also be good to try to have one of us try to just walk into the building and see what sort of physical security they might have. I would like to see if I can follow one of the employees as they leave the building for lunch or end of day. If I can pick a security badge or ID card I can copy it. We will need to determine who goes inside the building with me to retrieve the data; all, some, or none. I would certainly recommend a tech savvy partner as my skills with computers are pretty basic and my hacking almost non-existent."
"However, I do question whether this is the best time to go there. We are running on little sleep and could use some rest. I would propose meeting somewhere at say 1500 this afternoon to make final decisions on who is looking where. Since we are still brain-storming here, I am certainly open to other recommendations and ideas. By the way, I am sending each of you a private com code for me so that we can remain in touch. Please use it at any time. And I will be up in a few hours for a morning run. If anyone is interested you are more than welcome to drop by here and run with me. Let me know if you are interested. You can com me in the morning if you change your mind either way."
With that, Tanya looks to Kachina
-
Kachina nodded. Before we retire for the night I would like to scout the location astrally now that Kumiho has managed to find it. Mother, you are more than welcome to come with me. It won't take long and we could get an idea of what sort of protection they are getting for themselves during the night. After that, yes. We'll all get home and get some rest.
Before I project, I just learn from an important contact that a certain Jason Bridges is the CEO of the company. My contact may dig further if we want but I have a feeling it will start to cost us for this kind of service. Do you guys want to start our own research about him before I ask him?
Kachina finished her glass and sat down on the floor, her legs crossed in a meditation pose, her hands resting on her knees. She gave Mother a warm smile but said nothing else. She wasn't going to force the Voodoo woman to come with her if she hesitated. Each practitioner of the Arts has their own feeling and interpretation about the Spirit World. She would not insist if it made her uncomfortable.
She closed her eyes and her soul separated form her body. For a short moment she could see the aura of her new companion. From the troubled male/female but glowing with Mana energy of Mother to the extinguishing cybered up aura of the Elf Requiem. Then her Astral Form disappeared only to reappeared a few seconds later close to where the Location of the Return Safe building(s) was.
She started to discreetly observe the place, for activity, wards, spirit or other sign of living things around.
Astral Perception near the location of the RSI building (http://orokos.com/roll/293752): 14d6t5 5
-
"You have been pretty quiet. Is there anything I can get you? I hope it is not too impertinent to say that you have the form of a climber. Do you? I mean, do you do some climbing?"
Requiem looks up, assuming the lady is addressing him...
"No, I'm fine thank you. My skills will be useful once we are on site, for now I am content to rest and wait. I have done some climbing but I wouldn't call myself a climber, I prefer to be rooted..."
-
Kumiho nods at Tanya, Yes. I agree. Sleep is needed first. It wouldn't do us much good to go now at this time of night. I'll be heading home to rest and meet you on site in the morning.
He looks around at the others, If I may get your comm codes, I will share with each of you the buildings layout.
Kumiho watches the Native woman settle herself before projecting her spirit out into the world. He then nods to the rest, says good night as he retrieves his stuff, and heads to his motorcycle. He heads home and bed, mentally preparing himself for the morning and the next few days. He is curious where this will all lead.
-
I would join her in the astral but if I am spotted they will note my astral signature and then who will scout the astral when we infiltrate the building? I will watch over their physical form while they project lest a Shedim take up residence. I'm not much for running without immediate danger being present so I will pass on the morning run but thank you. Also here is my commcode if there if there are new developments.
-
[Saturday, 207505112355L]
@ Kumiho
As Kumiho begins his ride home, his commlink gets a ping. The secure line indicates that it's Zip.
"Hope you got something for me?" he says as he answers.
"Yes, it was scary, though. I managed to find the majority holder of your company. 51% is owned by SeaSec. I tried to figure out who that was, but their Host was... hard to penetrate. Whatever is going on, it's another holding company... a shell. Guess it's just another step on the ladder of what you really want to know. Anything else? I've got some other biz lined up if not...
@ Kachina
Navigation in the Astral Plane via 'Address' is exceptionally difficult, as the astral plane relies on landmarks and an innate sense of where you are. Physical address markers and numbers on mailboxes simply don't show up on the Astral Plane without manifesting, a very dangerous proposition. Without a solid grasp of Seattle's geography, locating the exact building will be tough.
Happily, there are a few major landmarks on the Seattle map that you are able to check before you go. An inlet of water and Bellevue Square are close to the building, close enough that you can find the latter by easily navigating to the former.
Of course, if finding it was tough, getting around astral space in that area is tougher. Bellevue is, after all, a wealthy, white-collar district of the greater Seattle Area... and companies, shops, and neighborhoods with money have astral security. There is no direction you can look without casting your gaze on a watcher spirit and a few locations have something beefier still.
Most of the spirits tend to ignore you so long as you stay along the blank, gray spaces that indicate streets. Move in a direction towards a building and you get the attention of the attendant spirit quickly. Arriving near the building you suspect is the one you want, you see that it is indeed tended by two patrolling watcher spirits. You don't see anything bigger, at least on the outside. The lot itself seems to have two separate buildings. Both are single level.
-
Tanya nods, giving and receiving comm codes and watching as Kumiho leaves. She goes to the table and calls up a map of Bellevue and enlarges it until the location of the Return Safe buildings is visible. She studies the surrounding area to get a feel for what buildings are near the target. There should be AROs pointing out what businesses are in the nearby structures and she notes those that will deserve a greater look in the daylight.
Her greatest questions involve what security systems guard the premises and the eventual pay data they are looking for. Her concern is that if the building is so hard to just find it may be tougher to determine what protects it, and that makes her job that much harder. She hopes that Kumiho can come through with the needed information.
-
Mother sits watching over her charge. She taps her nails on the coffee table and they change color with each tap.
She thinks about drawing on her in sharpie and then shakes her head with a rye smile.
She paces and then sits back down.
She texts Terr0r: You ok? did it work?
She taps her feet on the floor.
-
Kumiho frowns at the new wrinkle, Thanks Zip. This adds some more complexity of my current job but it helps. If I need anything else, I'll let you know - but I don't think i will. Next time I have a chance we should meet up and hit the Virtual-Arcade ;)
-
Requiem watched as Tanya manipulated the AR interface
"We could do with 'eyes on' surveillance during the day as well as 'out of hours'... I don't know the area well, is it mainly residential? Commercial? It will make a difference to our approach although I'd hazard a guess that we don't want to take the extended time for a social engineering exercise and that we'll try for a team insertion after dark. It's not that big but two buildings makes for a lot of extra area to search unless we can narrow down our target. Perhaps one of our hackers can provide us with more intel on the likely location of offline storage...?"
-
Tanya nods. "I am looking at the various AROs for the area to see if I can determine just that. I would think that the area is more commercial, but cannot be certain until I can finish looking about whether this is a small business area or something else." She motions to the map display. "Do you have any personal knowledge of this area? I would still like to pay the area a visit it the day. I would like that to be discussed when we all meet again. What do you mean by not recommending a social engineering exercise? I had actually hoped to pay a direct visit to the main building to see what sort of physical security is present and see if I can lift a security badge or employee ID. I can duplicate the badge and ID here to use and it might be easier than a covert approach. It could be that one of the employees is susceptible to my charms and will take me on a date, making the lifting job that much simpler. And I totally agree that it would help if we knew where in the building we need to look. I am hoping that Kumiho can get the information we need."
Tanya turns to Mother, "If Kachina is not in any direct danger, I can stay up and watch over her. That would allow you to go home and get some rest."
-
"Fair enough...I take your point about the social engineering, if we can achieve our goal without firing a shot then so much the better!"
-
Tanya nods. "I would much rather avoid violence unless it is absolutely necessary.
-
"That is a good idea Tanya...both getting some rest and lifting a badge. You have been a wonderfull host. Good night."
-
Tanya smiles at the other woman. "Thank you, Mother. It has been a pleasure. I am sure that we will have lots of time to talk. Perhaps we can work together to get a badge or card. She looks at the only other conscious person still in the room. "So, Requiem is it? Do you mind small talk while we wait for Kachina to return to her body? What do you do for a living? I steal things and live off the largesse of my family.
-
Requiem nodded,
"Small talk isn't exactly my forte, although you might have thought I'd have managed it by now...for a living? Well I suppose in essence I do this...wait around for things to happen and then react. To live though, well for that I teach at a dojo in Redmond. The Firefight martial art to be precise, do you know it? It marries the precision of Tai Chi with the slightly less esoteric fire arm..." and he indicated the Light Fire strapped to his wrist "and a dose of old fashioned trid style Gun Fu..."
-
Tanya shakes her head. "No. I am afraid that I have no experience in martial arts. I have heard that it is great exercise, though, and have often considered trying to learn. Do you think it is too late for an early-thirties woman to start?" She looks closely at the man and says, "And what do you mean when you say "by now"? You do not look that old, but I have to confess I do not know much about Elves except that they are supposed to live a very long time. Perhaps you just need someone to make you feel young."
She turns her attention back to the map in front of her and smiles. "Requiem, come look at this. The area of 209 100th Street in Bellevue is right across the street from a large park. Hmmmm. The Ballet Bellevue is right there as well. I wonder if there are any shows in the next couple of days that we can use as a cover. You look pretty dashing in a tux. Would you be interested in seeing the ballet? Tanya pulls up the ARO for Ballet Bellevue to see if there are any performances in the next couple of days.
-
Tanya looks closer at the ballet ARO and chuckles. "Hey, Requiem. Bad news if you wanted to wear that tux and take me on a date. It seems that the Bellevue Ballet is a school, not a performance center. Still, there is a performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" that the school is putting on in the park. Should be good based on the write up of the school. We could still use that as a cover to go see what the place is like at night. Still want to see it in daylight as well. Want to take me? I am buying two will call tickets in my name. Hmmm. The advert indicates informal dress, so your tux can stay in the closet. Should not take too long to get there from here so we can leave at about 1730 and still make it for the curtain."
Tanya glances at the man near her. "You do know that you do not have to stay and watch Kachina, right? I can handle it; I am pretty much a night person anyway. There is an unused spare bedroom if you would like to get some rest for a bit."
Tanya crafts a text message for the team and programs it to go out at 1000. <Team. Tanya. Not sure if it is all too helpful, but here is what I have so far. I have located the site of the buildings and have attached an ARO of the location. It seems to be in a nice white-collar neighborhood, with some residential and commercial properties near. There is a large park across the street that we can perhaps take advantage of. I would like to recommend a day-time and a night-time recon of the building to get an idea of what the area is really like. One of the things I am thinking of is a direct approach during the day to see if I can determine some of the physical security assets. I would like to try to get access to an employee ID badge and/or security card that I can copy. There is a ballet school almost right across the street from the target buildings. They are putting on a performance of "A Midsummers Night Dream" in the park and I have purchased two tickets for will-call. If we are agreed, I can use the performance to help cover my night recon of the site. There is a shopping mall just to the north of the park that we can meet at this afternoon. The adverts for the mall recommend "Barny's" as a good place for great down home cooking. I might need to get a definition of that term, but am willing to try it out as a place to gather. If no objections I recommend 1500. Also, just a reminder for anyone willing to go on my morning run. I start from the hotel at 0930 and will go about 6-7 miles as it is my light day. Anyone is welcome. I am sure that Kachina will put out additional information after she returns from her astral recon. For the time being, Ciao.>
-
"That is why I avoid small talk, I end up revealing more than I had intended..." Requiem mused wryly to himself "I may look like I'm in my mid twenties but, and this is without any expensive leonization treatments, I'm nearing sixty years old! Ask yourself, have you ever seen an old elf? If you have consider the implications of that! As to the ballet, I'm more than happy to accompany you, tux or otherwise. The dedication to dance isn't too dissimilar from that required for martial arts after all and I guess I can deal with the pushy ballet mums if it comes to that..."
-
Tanya Looks at Requiem. "You seem pretty fit for being almost sixty. That martial arts training must help; I will have give it a try. I am not much into firearms, though, and my experience with guns of almost any kind is limited to a dart pistol and a grapple gun. Is there another style to train in that does not use guns?"
"And thank you for stepping up to take me to the ballet tonight. Shakespeare never gets old and I have seen "Dream" a number of times. I do hope that this school can do it justice."
Tanya sends herself a copy of the open map with the location of the Return Safe buildings marked, then flicks her hand to sweep away the visual map before turning to her companion, "No telling how long we will have to wait for Kachina to return. If you are going to wait with me, would you like something stronger than water. The bar in the living room has a variety of offerings and I can always call room service if it does not have what you want. We can swap stories of our past exploits, although I dare say that yours are likely to be far more interesting than mine. I think that you will find me to be a very good listener." The British-born thief smiles at the Elf. "Alternatively, that chair should be quite comfortable and I can leave you alone if my nattering bothers you. We are still in the getting-to-know-the-team mode and I would hate to be stepping all over your private space."
-
Mother walked into her apartment and sighed. "Thank the Loa. Why didn't you answer my text?" she said to Terr0r lounging in a thrift store recliner. Mother took her gun and her commlink and sat them on the coffee table.
"I tried to stick it to those hoity toity bitches just like you suggested. They gave me a run for my money. Rich people can afford good matrix security. Also someone grabbed your datatap." said Terror taking a sip of cheap soybeer.
"I know. I noticed it was discovered that's why I was worried. Remember as much as I enjoy a good laugh at the expense of the Bourgeoisie I don't want to lose you because of it. You know I met someone recently who makes me think... She was born into money and has chosen a life in the shadows. It's strange. I kind of like her. Anyway how can you drink that stuff. I have a bottle of Bacardi Reserva Limitada under the sink." said Mother sitting opposite her on the couch.
"I thought the rum was for your rituals?" asked Terr0r.
"Rituals and good news. You being alive is good news." said Mother.
Terr0r got up and grabbed the bottle and two chipped glasses.
"To the revolution." said Mother tapping her glass with Terr0r.
-
Kachina opened her eyes, slowly feeling the motor functions of her body come back to life. Tanya and Requiem were still there.
I hope I didn't make anyone wait for too long. The neighborhood is pretty busy with life, but the building has very minimal human presence. I spotted two Watchers, entities born from a Mage's mind. Quite a powerful one, from what I can tell. The Watchers themselves aren't much of a threat, but if they spot anything unusual, their creator will know.
Kachina stood up, stretched a bit and drank some water Tanya had previously offered. She looked at the Trid representation of the Building and the area. Let's do some reckoning tomorrow during the day. It's late. Let's continue with what we planned tomorrow.
She read the message Tanya had send and smiled. 1500 will be perfect.
-
Tanya looks at Kachina. "it was no problem. I have never really been around people that could do what you do and I have to say that I am impressed. So do these watchers only cover the astral or would they see me if I was walking on the roof?"
"But here I am taking up your time and you must be tired. I am sure that you would rather put the information out to all of us and not just me. Look, if either or both of you are too tired to get home on your own I would offer the spare room for one of you and the couch really is quite comfortable. Otherwise I will just head off to bed as it has been a very long day."
She waits to see if either or both of them will crash for some rest. If so, she will show them to the unused bedroom and get some spare linen for the couch if needed. Once everyone is either settled or gone, Tanya goes to the master bedroom and undresses. She sighs at not having Petra in the bed with her but there will be other nights. As she climbs into bed she sets her link to wake her at 0900 and checks on her brunch reservation for her and Petra for 1130. Her mind considers the group of people that she has just met and she smiles as she falls asleep.
-
After discussing the merits of various martial arts techniques with Tanya, and pointing out that Firefight was as much about being aware of your surroundings as it was about firearms, Requiem left to pick up his bike and return home for a rest...
"See you tomorrow. I'll pass on the run but you are welcome to swing by the dojo afterwards if you're interested? I'll be there before coming to the meet in Bellevue for our scouting session..."
-
Tanya nods at Requiem. "Not too sure about today. I have a brunch date here with a friend at 1130. Then we all meet at 1500. Going to your dojo would be a bit tight, but I could swing by for a visit and maybe look into lessons for another time. Give me the ARO for the address and I will swing by on the bike and we can go to the meet together. It really was good to meet you."
-
Everybody ends the evening to prepare for the next day, heading back to their respective doss or late night hang-out.
-
Tanya wakes up to her internal alarm clock to find that Monique has returned and set out her running clothes and some tea. After dressing, she walks out to the living area to find Monique going over some of the maps and notes that Tanya had made. The maid looks up from the notes, waves a cup of tea in Tanya's direction and says, "Interesting. Return Safe. Not sure that I have ever heard of them, but I will ask around my circle of contacts. I did not see Petra in bed. I had thought she was coming over?"
Tanya sips from her own cup as she slides onto the couch with Monique and picks up some of the paperwork. "Mmmhmmm, she was. But I had some new acquaintances over and the meeting lasted a bit long. She decided to just come over for brunch." Tanya puts the papers down and moves to the door. "I will be dining with Petra after I get back, then going to meet my new associates at 1500. I will be attending a ballet recital later in the evening. Informal dress, so nothing too fancy."
She pauses then adds, One of the people I just met is an Elf. Quite good looking, but I think he feels himself to be a bit on the old side. I think he is mainly muscle, but one does not live in the shadows as long as he has without something going for him besides muscle. Of the others, there is another man, oriental and perhaps Korean. Cora Lee has mentioned him to me before as some sort of prodigy with matrix art. There are two women. One is a Native American spell caster. Quite pretty and I would not mind getting to know her better socially. The other is..........different, but she seems very nice, and I think we could be friends. I cannot quite place what she is, other than another spell caster. Anyway, we are all to meet to get eyes on this building. So now I am off. Thanks for the tea. I will get back at about 1100 to shower and change. Ciao."
Tanya leaves the room and takes the elevator to the ground floor. Leaving the hotel she begins her morning run, using the time to think over what she knew of her new companions and the job they had agreed to undertake. The run takes her along the streets and byways of the neighborhood. She has several routes that she mixes up to keep them from becoming too routine. Running has allowed her to learn the area's streets and businesses. She finishes the run with a good sprint, bettering her normal time for this route by several seconds. Pleased with herself,she returns to her room, showers and changes into the clothes her maid has laid out for her.
Leaving the room again, she goes to the lobby to wait for her friend, who can be counted on to be punctual. As the star reporter for her company, Petra has learned the value of being on time. The two women embrace and buss cheeks before going to the hotel's luxurious dining room. During the meal, Petra tries to get Tanya to open up abut the evening before, but Tanya shakes her head and says, "You know I cannot talk about the specifics. If something develops that you can use without harming my employer or my companions, you will receive the benefit of the "anonymous source". And any information that you can dig up on the company or its leadership will earn you rewards."
After brunch, Tanya returns to her room to change for her afternoon out. She selects a pair of short-short denim shorts and a cropped tee that exposes her toned midriff, and a pair of knee-high boots. Monique looks up from her chores as Tanya steps into the living room. "Not much of a disguise there. That is bound to get you noticed."
"Yes it is. Replied Tanya, "That is part of the plan for this afternoon. Please have the evening frock laid out as I may not have much time to change into it. I would not plan on me being in for dinner."
Monique nods as Tanya leaves the room. Tanya goes to the garage, where she rolls the red and black Mirage out of its parking spot, fires up the powerful machine, and heads out onto the street. She has set the address for Requiem's dojo on her gridguide and roars off down the street, careful to follow the traffic laws. After all, there is no reason to be delayed by traffic policemen. Arriving at the Silk Dragon dojo, Tanya parks the bike and goes in to see what this martial arts stuff is about. Grinning to herself, she admits that she is also interested in seeing the handsome Requien in his element.
As she enters the building, a young man stands up up from a desk and gives a Tanya a slight bow, "How may I be of service?"
Tanya gives a slight bow in return. "I was told to ask for the master of this Dojo. Is he available?"
"He is. I will go get Sensei Jitan at once."
The young man returns with an older man. A sense of self confidence and capability radiates from him as he gives a slight bow. His English is only barely accented as he asks, "You asked to speak to me, Miss.....?"
Tanya bows a bit lower and strives to be as good as she can as she says, "Konichiwa, watashino namae ha Tanya Marisart desu. Watashiwo shitte ureshii desu." She laughs and adds in English, "And that, plus some uncultured swear words, just about sums up my entire vocabulary of Japanese. How do you do. I met a man by the name of Requiem. We got to talking and he told me a bit about his martial arts training and mentioned that I should come by if I were interested in looking into some lessons. So, here I am, and I have to confess that I am a bit interested in anything that will help me stay in shape and might come in handy. Do you think there is anything that you can offer someone of my age?"
The Sensei looks Tanya up and down, more to get an idea of her conditioning than to look at her clothes. He nods, "Anything is possible, Miss Marisart. But you have to want to do it; you have to have the dedication to do it. The man you know as Requiem is my best instructor and can certainly put a student through some hard training. I am not sure that you are ready for someone of his calber yet, but I am willing to test you out to see where you might fall, if you are interested." Jitan reaches for a small paper pamphlet and holds it out to Tanya. "This explains the various courses we offer here and the fees. Please look it over and get back to me if you decide that you are interested enough to get started. Now, would you like to watch a bit of the training that Requiem is giving some of our younger students? I have found that not only is he good enough to give more advanced students a good session; but he is also quite good with our younger set. Let me take you to the observation room. You will see without being seen."
Jitan takes Tanya to a small room that has a window looking out onto the exercise floor. Tanya sees Requiem and seven younger students in the room on the other side of the mirrored window. There is one other person in the observation room. The woman looks at Tanya as she enters and whispers, "Which is yours? Mine is Jimmy, that one there, with the glasses. The Sensei is doing remarkable things for Jimmy's self confidence." Tanya says that she is just watching today and the woman extols the quality of the Silk Dragon Dojo and Requiem's abilities. Tanya watches the remainder of the session and observes how Requiem handles himself and his students. When the session is complete, Tanya goes to the reception area to wait for Requiem.
When he appears, she stands and gives him a slight bow, "I have been watching you for a bit. You have skills and a great ability to see what others need. I think that I would like to see how much training I need. Now, on a different subject, are you ready to go to the mall to meet the others, or do you have something else to do first? I have my Mirage in the parking lot."
-
Terr0r walked into the living room of the small apartment carrying two sacks.
"What are we having today?" asked Mother
"Same as always dumpster surprise. ooh Indian." said Terr0r.
Revere walked in his eyes half lidded.
"Where have you been all night?" asked Mother.
Revere shrugged.
"Must have been good if you don't remember." said Terr0r.
"Dumpster food again?" asked Revere.
"Hey, revolutions aren't cheap. Think about that before you have another fancy dinner or buy a new suit." said Mother.
"You mock my dedication to the cause? I have to look the part and wine and dine clients. If I don't they won't respect me. I am no less dedicated. I have given so much...What have your little anarchist friends done other than whine and caused mischief." said Revere.
"Do you think you could get me a bomb?" asked Mother.
"Whatever for?" asked Revere.
"I don't ask about your jobs." said Mother.
Revere just pulled out a flask and took a long pull.
-
Kumiho wakes from his with a sudden start, drenched in sweat. He had that dream again. After taking long slow breathes to slow his quickened heart, he fixed all the names in his mind again and whispers, "Never Again" aloud to no one but himself and his ghosts. He swings his feet off the bed and proceeds to walk to his shower while trying to rub sleep from his exhausted eyes.
"바리 스타, Mocha - triple shot!", he yells as he enters the bathroom to start his shower. From the kitchen, his barista x-1200 turns on at the sound of his voice and begins to put the life giving brew in his a small blue clay cup.
As he steps into the shower he calls out, "뉴스". And within seconds the trid has turned on and he can hear from the shower stall the morning forecast as given by the Pirate newsnet that he had programmed to play to that voice activation. As he began to wash his person he uses more voice commands to checked his AR mail box for any new messages - saving any and all spam into a special folder for later so he can hunt down the original senders and make their life hell.
Within an hour he was clean, dressed, feed, caffeinated, and ready to go. with a final "수면", the trid turned off again and Kumiho head to his bike and the address where he would meet his team.
-
Mother turns to Revere. "How would you like to accompany me to the ballet?" she asked.
"You don't go to the ballet. Is this for work?" he asked.
"I'm affronted. You don't want to be my date?" she said showing the details on her commlink.
"That sounds terrible. No thank you." he said.
"Don't be such a snob." said Mother strapping her gun in an armslide.
Revere frowned.
"Well I'm off. You don't know what you are missing my dear." she said walking out.
-
Tanya nods to Requiem. "OK. I will see you at the mall. Remember, the place is Barney's. See you there at 1500. Ta." She climbs onto her Mirage and heads for Bellevue and the mall. Arriving 1430, she parks the bike, walks into the mall, and locates the restaurant on the mall locator map. She window shops as she wends her way to the eatery, entering the establishment at 1445 by her internal chronometer. She asks the hostess for a table for five as she is expecting four guests. Once seated she will examine the menu and wait for the others to arrive.
-
After his stint at the dojo Requiem took particular care to ensure he was suitable freshened for his sojourn into the wonders of the Bellevue shopping district...it wouldn't do to draw attention. Thankfully the 'pretty boy elf' look was suitably in fashion and he'd probably get fewer glances than in this part of Redmond. The Lightfire in the arm slide completed the ensemble of loose trousers and a vaguely stylish shirt with the heavy lined coat slung over one arm 'in case of emergencies'...
A short taxi ride later and he was walking the last couple of blocks towards the mall and their rendezvous...
-
Barney's is a smallish place, with only a dozen tables and a few booths. Tanya is shown to one of the three booths that could seat five, perhaps six people. The waitresses are all wearing some sort of frilly frocks with a checked pattern. One of them comes to the booth and Tanya orders tea and has to explain that she wants hot tea, not iced, something she has learned to expect in this heathen land she has been exiled to. Still, she considers it a minor inconvenience and there are so many plusses to living here. When the girl brings the tea, Tanya tells her that she is to get the check for the group she is hosting.
Tanya notices Requiem as he enters the restaurant. Smiling, she waves him over and motions for him to take a seat near her. She looks him over as he approaches the table and as he sits, she says, "You are the first to arrive. I must say that your choice of ensemble suits you. You seem to fit in exactly while I went for the opposite effect." Tanya frowns slightly as she motions with her finger and the VR menu she has been looking at slides to a position in front of the Elf. "Maybe you can help me? I have been in your country for three years now and I am confused by this menu. Can you please explain to me what "Down Home Cookin" is?"
-
Kachina came back to her apartment without any issue. The contrast between the tiny run down place and the beautiful suite she was in a few minutes before was striking. The building had seen better days. Most of the space in the studio was taken by the Shaman's Magical Lodge, a collection of niknaks ranging from potteries to wooden instruments ornamented by bird feathers. A bed and small cooking area was taking up the rest. It was nicely decorated by traditional Native American art and plants, but it was really to hide the deprecated walls and peeling paint. A strong scent of encens used in the lodge made staying in comfortable enough, compare to the outside corridors on some days.
She woke up late the next morning. The day may run long and she might as well get some sleep in. She send a brief message to Barnaby. <<What is it going to take to have you dig deeper on Return Safe?>>
She made her way to the rendez-vous point early in the afternoon. Tanya and Requiem were there already. Well, hello team.
-
Mother as per usual shows up fashionably late. She sees the team sitting at a table and walks faster.
"Good. You didn't start the party without me. Is it too late for lunch?"
Mother sits down and puts a knapkin in her lap and peruses the menu.
"Hushpuppies. Yum. You should try them." she said.
-
Kumiho walks in and bypasses the hostess, looking around for his group. Once he spots them he walks over tot he table and sits.
안녕, I hope you were not waiting long.
-
Tanya smiles as Kachina walks up to the booth, making room for her at the table. Laughing, she says, "Hello. Requiem is trying to help me understand the menu and failing. It must be my thick British head. Maybe you can do better in defining the term "Down Home Cookin"?" She sits back and listens to her new companions try to clue her in on the mystery. The young waitress comes around and provides her with more hot water and a fresh tea bag and takes the drink orders for the others. After the girl leaves, Tanya shakes her head, saying, "Why is it so hard to get a decent tea in this land? Everything is in disposable bags that only pretend to be tea. That is one of the few things I miss about England. Good, brewed tea."
Tanya sits with the others, waiting for Kumiho and Mother to arrive. Her eyes light up when Mother appears first. She motions to the seat and says, "You are not that late and we have not started the party without you. I have a bet with myself that you can do better than the others in explaining the term "Down Home Cookin" to me. Am I right?" After Mother's comment, she asks, "The menu says lunch all day. And just what are hushpuppies?"
Kumiho arrives shortly after Mother and Tanya greets him. "No. You are only a little late." Tanya looks about the table and adds, "I do hope that no one minds that I have already told the waitress that the meal is on me? Please order what you like and I hope we all enjoy the food." Tanya waits her turn to order and orders some of the food recommended by the waitress but is sure to include an order of the hushpuppies. And more tea. After all the orders are taken and the waitress leaves, she looks expectantly at Kachina. "So, how do we proceed from here? Is this a brainstorming opportunity?"
-
Kumiho leans forward with his elbow crosses in front of him on the table.
From what I understood last night, today we are to setup surveillance on the target. See who works there and what kind of people visit the building in question.
With a tilt of his head he looks at Kachina, However, seeing as this business is close by the Target - maybe the hostess or one of the servers of this restaurant has encountered any wageslave from there.
Leaning back into his chair , he looks around conspiratory like before saying, My job today will be to gather information on individuals who have exited or entered the Target.
-
[Sunday, 207505121507L]
Sunday in Bellevue is a peek at the good life. It's a place where the families of high-stress middle management execs laugh and play without a care. The open air mall of Bellevue Square is the epitome of the lifestyle with fashion boutiques, entertainment options, and a dizzying selection of food options, each offering a selection of very real food. Vashon and Zoé both have storefronts you can see from Barney's and you know that Mortimer has a shop on the other side of the mall.
As young trophy wives natter on about trivial matters, nannies steer flocks of children and youth to appropriate shops, all while various security goons look on, suspiciously guarding their respective wards. Not a few paranoid glances rest just a second too long at the disparate crew sitting in the CAS inspired restaurant.
Tanya's choice of restaurant seems to reflect the need to see their target as much as it is about the reviews and food, and there is a line of sight to the Return Safe office building some 400 yards away, though it is broken up by a few trees, and the massively pavilioned seating and play area on the south end of the mall.
From this location you definitely won't be able to see who is coming in and out of Return Safe, especially considering that, as you drove around it, you noticed that the entrance was on the west side of the building.
-
"A hushpuppy is mostly onions and dough. Pure deliciousness. I also recommend the chicken fried steak with grits. This food really sticks to a girls ribs. Now about ReturnSafe. The entrance is facing away from us. Should we perhaps take a stroll around the block?" said Mother.
-
Tanya nods. "My plan was to simply stroll into the building and see what they do. I would like to see if there is an employee who might be separated from a badge or security card so that I can make a duplicate. Any problems with that idea?"
"And thank you, Mother. I will definitely try the hushpuppies, and I will give a try to your other recommendations."
-
Seems like a some what Brazen plan. Though i have my doubts that it will work out very well.
-
Tanya nods. "That is why we are brainstorming. I make no claim to having great ideas all the time. My thought was to at least try to see what the place does and talk to someone. Getting a code would be a bonus."
-
Kachina was as much ignorant of the cuisine terms as Tanya. The Mall was not her cup of tea, either. Too many arrogant and rich people. Looking over the window however, she was relieved to see some greenery and had to admit the park looked very nice.
She welcomed the runners arriving after her and ordered a late lunch, some small bites that everyone was welcome to try.
I think it is worth a try to simply attempt to come in. They are a Security firm; a wealthy person could very well be seeking extra protection or security consulting. Depending on how it goes inside, it will be up to you Tanya to decide whether or not the occasion to grab something is worth it. Remember that if they realize too soon something is missing they may get very quickly suspicious.
Tanya, you have all the social grace to play that role. I could come with you under pretense to be your secretary or assistant. Requiem could be your official bodyguard or something else, but I think it could be interesting to have you scout the outside perimeter quite obviously, while we are inside. I'd be interested to witness their reaction and behavior if they notice some suspicious behavior on the outside.
The Thunderbird will help us mask our identity. He grants me the ability to change my or someone else's appearance and shape.
-
Tanya nods again. "So you think I should go in as myself? Hmmmmm. I had not considered that, but it might work." She looks down at her rather skimpy clothing and chuckles. "Not really dressed for that. But there is nice boutique in the mall. I saw a nice frock that I would like that might be close to my size. I could go there and pick something out that would be more appropriate."
-
Kachina gently smiles at Tanya. Yourself as a high born, yes. But you won't have to look like you. I will magically change your appearance.
Mother, do you have any sort of spells that would help in the matter too?
-
Tanya laughs. "That talent would be ever so useful in my line of work. Will it change my clothing as well?"
-
"I could convince someone that they had lost their badge provided Tanya was smooth enough to remove it unnoticed. I think a better plan would be to tail someonme from the building to a local bar or simply ask someone leaving where a good bar would be and turn on the charm. Then we could ply them with liquor and steal their badge."
-
Tanya smiles at Mother and feigns shock. "Why, Mother. That sounds perfectly delicious."
-
"No Kachina, I do not have any spells that could change someone's experience but I could make someone invisible."
-
Requiem mused the beginnings of the plan. He wasn't sure that entering in this way would tip the hand of whoever was behind all this, assuming there was someone behind all this and they weren't acting out some elaborate plan by this Saint James...it wouldn't be the first time he had been duped into doing something other than what he thought he was doing.
"I think if it is just the two making a pass on the building it will attract less suspicion. I trust Tanya has a sufficiently robust identity? One that you don't mind being burned potentially? And whoever your companion will be. Lifting a badge from a drunken corp drone offers considerably less exposure but I agree that getting 'eyes on' inside the building would be invaluable..."
-
Kumiho wasn't all that comfortable with the current plan laid on the table. It seemed a bit premature to take such an action.
Maybe we should first evaluate the situation before we allow anyone enter the building. For today, why don't we just observe, marking targets who exit the building, as originally planned. This way, if you are to lift anything from a wageslave - we will have one picked out before hand.
He runs his hand through his hair organizing his thoughts, We know very little about the target, so the more we know the better before anyone enter the building the better. If you get caught then it could potentially spoil the whole mission. There is no need to rush anything. Quick action will not bring back the dead - but can add to it.
-
"Well said sugar." said Mother to Kumiho in her feigned southern accent.
-
Tanya smiles. "A couple of good reasons for my idea to be shelved for the time being." She looks around the table. "I am not sure that I have taken the chance to say that I have never really been part of a group and I like it. Thank you for not letting me charge ahead." She pauses then adds, "So, there is some favor in taking a look inside and some for not. I usually prefer the long approach and trying to get as much information as possible before making my move, but I was under the impression that there is a time constraint here. If I am wrong, I fully support Kumiho's idea of careful research. We have a lot of very smart and talented people here, so what other ideas can we come up with? By the way, there is a large park that is across the street from the target. We could go out and sit under a tree or two and discuss this more in private once we finish our lunch."
-
Do we want to break off into groups and station ourselves in various areas near the building?
-
"I believe Tanya and I in our finery could take a walk by the building and see if we can spot anyone. Kumiho could you hack one of their commlinks? You could find out where they like to hang out after work darling."
-
Tanya chuckles. "I hope that you mean the finery I intend to buy in a few minutes. Right now I am dressed more to attract a different type of attention."
-
Requiem smiled at the banter but otherwise stayed quiet...
-
Tanya looks at Kachina and Mother. "Do the guardian spirits protect against astral access to the building, or can they also detect a mundane approach, such as us sneaking in?"
-
Kachina was observing the dynamic of the group. They all had to learn about each other's strengths and weaknesses.
She was brash and quick to action, and if it was up to her they would probably be in the building already. But that didn't mean that was the smartest move either. The Thunderbird had been guiding her from well before she knew or understood what a Mentor Spirit was.
Being the leader of a group meant she may have the last word after all, but use it unwisely and the leadership would soon fade away. She understood Kumiho's desire to take it slow and gather as much data as possible, or could appreciate Tanya's idea to acquire a guard or employee's pass.
"Do the guardian spirits protect against astral access to the building, or can they also detect a mundane approach, such as us sneaking in?"
Tanya brought Kachina's back from her own thoughts.
I believe you refer to the Watchers that I encountered last night during my search. If so, yes. They would be able to detect mundanes trying to sneak in. From what I understand, Watchers are not really Spirits per say they are some some of manifestation of a Magician's mind. I can't banish them for instance. They however have a limited lifespan too; a few hours at most. The two I've encountered were powerful and would for sure last all night long, but it means the magician or magicians would have to recreate a couple via a ritual this morning to look after the place again. I guess that is really what we call wage mage. They'd be paid to perform a couple ritual - under 10min each I would think - every eight hours or so, so the company could have some Astral protection. They'd probably have to be on call in case their Watcher detects something.
Now, this is true that Saint James didn't really gave us any timeline. But we need to keep in mind what and why we're doing this for. Our mutual friend has been murdered. If there's any clue as to who could be behind it, it is supposed to be in that building. The longer we take the more chances we also take to see those clues disappear. The first 48h are usually capital when dealing with murder.
I too would love to spend time gathering as much data as possible, but I have the feeling if we don't act quick enough, we will lose our chance to find something. Yes, rushing in won't bring our friend back, but not doing so could give someone just enough time to erase the data that we are looking for. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying we need to go now, but let's get clear on what we have, what we need, what could be good to have.
Kumiho, you got us the blueprint of the place already, right? Now it would be very valuable to see the inside with our own eyes, including how they are set up, before we attempt to break in.
The pass Tanya could steal would be extremely useful to get in during our break in, if not we will have to rely on Kumiho controlling their hardware. Or having one of them voluntarily take us where we need to be...
The Employees. Outside of the heads, including the dead ones, we know pretty much nothing about them. We, however, could use them to get info and possibly access to the building. I am specialized in all forms of interrogation techniques; getting info from someone is what I do. It could be useful to know where we need to look in the building.
I personally feel it is important we get in under some pretense. We may learn some valuable information and if done properly even some info on their own security and response time. Let's keep in mind they are a security company.
-
Tanya has an odd thought. "Say, we have been sort of told that this is a security company, right? But what if we have the wrong sort of security in mind? Perhaps it is a private investment brokerage; one that guarantees a "Safe Return" for its clients' money?"
She looks at Kachina with respect, knowing how hard it is to be a leader and wanting to give support because she has no delusions of wanting that mantle. "So, Kachina, what would you recommend we do?"
-
Then their Matrix security will probably be stronger than their physical one. Probably better for most of us. said Kachina.
She pondered for a second then added:
Let's start by getting closer to the building, get a better view. That sport in the park sounds good. Mother we will go with your idea to start. You and Kumiho will do a casual walk by. Stay on public walkways, just check what a visula can get you by the entrance of the building. If you get close enough to a employee, Kumiho, get in his 'link and see what sort of info you can get out of it. Local hang out spot could be good, but also authorized zone in the building and things like that.
I have a way to see inside without jeopardizing anyone's identity. I'll just need to get close enough. Requiem and I will just pass as a couple enjoying their day around the park. We'll get to settle by a wall of the building.
Tanya. Go shopping. Depending on what we gather, I may still want you to go inside. With one of us. Get an outfit that would be suitable, just in case.
-
Tanya nods. She finishes her cup of tea and the last hushpuppy. Turning to Mother she says, "Thank you for recommending the food. It was quite good. I have to go out with you more often. I have lived in Seattle for about three years and have never tried these hushpuppies. Bloody tasty."
She waves over the cute waitress and indicates that she would like the check. Even though the girl has been working her butt off in what seems to be an understaffed restaurant, she has managed to stop by several times to check on the people in the booth and has kept the various coffee, tea, and other drink orders filled. The waitress manages a smile as she produces the check and wishes everyone a nice afternoon. Tanya recognizes the difference between someone trying hard and hardly trying and this girl has been trying hard. Adding a hefty 50% tip to the bill, Tanya stands and leaves the booth. She digs a small business card from her pocket and gives it to the waitress as she leaves, saying "Give me a call when you have some free time. I appreciate a hard worker and just might have something for you."
Going out into the mall area, Tanya makes her way to the trendy boutique that she had seen on her way to Barney's. She enters and engages a rather bored shop girl in conversation, asking about the cute frock she has seen in the window. She tries that one and a couple more on and decides to take the one that had originally caught her eye. The girl that helps her is almost the opposite of the young waitress from the restaurant, seeming to be almost bored to be helping the customers. As she takes the frock and goes to put it on, Tanya shakes her head at the difference. She asks for and get a bag to put her shorts and blouse in and leaves the shop.
Tanya goes out to the Mirage and stows her clothes in one of the side compartments and then takes a stroll in the direction of the Return Safe building. She pulls up the comm code that Kachina had given her and sends a message to the sorceress. <Kachina. Tanya. I am wearing my new frock and am wandering in your direction. Any instructions?>
-
"Well sugar...shall we?" asks Mother putting out her arm.
"I do declare that is a beutiful frock. Where did you get it?" asked Mother as they walked.
-
Tanya is a bit surprised to see Mother waiting for her, but takes her arm and smiles warmly at her. "This? Thank you. It caught my eye when I was walking to the restaurant this afternoon. I think it is just too darling. The shop is called Waller's. Sadly, the girl that served me seemed far too bored to be working there."
She nods towards the Return Safe building as they get closer. "So what is our play here?"
-
Kachina and Requiem made their way closer the the building. They stopped not too far from the crossing signs, close to a tree. They stood together and Kachina hugged Requiem, without much warning. Hold me. She told him. She just wanted to look like a couple enjoying each other's presence and remain inconspicuous to everyone around. Her eyes closed as she mumbled something inaudibly, and her vision was propelled far across, inside the building.
Casting a Clairvoyance spell Force (F7) to stay hard to spot.
Clairevoyance F3 (http://orokos.com/roll/302878): 15d6t5 3
Drain:
Drain Clairvoyance (4) (http://orokos.com/roll/302887): 10d6t5 7
She can pretty much see from anywhere within a 210m radius (660 ft). She will look inside each room, trying to pay attention to as much as she can remember, including the number of people, what kind of people, and what sort of interesting things are visible, trying to get a clue as to where the main server would be.
She has a Perception limit of 7 (number of successes) while using the spell.
She casts a second spell of Clairvoyance on Requiem, so he too can look inside.
Clairevoyance F7 (-2 for the first one being sustained) on Requiem (http://orokos.com/roll/302908): 13d6t5 2
Drain Clairvoyance (4) (http://orokos.com/roll/302910): 10d6t5 3
Stun 1 block
After a few second Requiem realized he too could see inside the building. His vision was less clear but he could see in almost any room as if he was there. (Limit of 2 on perception tests)
The two only had to stand there lovingly for a few seconds to look around all the rooms.
-
As Kachina and Requiem stand at the crosswalk, the elf holds the Amerindian steady as she loses her local vision and projects her sight into the building. What she notices at first doesn't help much. It looks much like any other small office building on the inside. There is a break area with soykaf and food processors on the north wing of the building (left side of the top blueprint) and a few tables and folding chairs, nothing overly comfortable. The south side houses four offices, a supply closet, and just outside the four offices are the restrooms.
The main entrance opens into a foyer/waiting room and what appears to be a large receptionists area are opposite the main doors. A larger office nestles in the back between the receptionist area and the four offices, with its own small waiting area.
Between the foyer and the break rooms is a small office room that has been converted into some manner of storage. There is also a small closet just outside the break room.
Interstingly, Kachina does find a stairwell, but her vision is blocked just as the stairs would descend. Something about that blockage keeps her from trying to extend her vision down the stairwell and she instead turns her attention to the second building (bottom blueprint).
It's a garage with a toolshed, and a unisex bathroom. Inside the garage are two black Rover's, they look brand new, along with a Suzuki Mirage.
There appears to be no one in the building.
-
There's an underground level. It is either warded or deep underground where my magic cannot reach from here. I'll need to get down there first.
Kumiho there's no one inside, that solve your part of the initial plan. There are two new Rovers and a Mirage inside the garage.
She switch the Astral vision to see if she could detect the Watcher spirits today.
-
Tanya laughs. >>All. It is Sunday, after all. The building may be closed for business today.<<
-
Kachina grabbed suspiciously her commlink to see the date.... she too laugh. She had lost track of time those past few days.
Well, team. There's minimal security We could never hope for less. No clue what's downstairs but I doubt we're going to find out by any other means today. It's your typical cover business. And I feel they could be hiding something big down there.
The only thing we can do right now is find out who those vehicles belong to and look for the owners' whereabout. That may give us an idea of how many people may be downstairs. Curious to know if anyone has any other idea.
-
Tanya thinks a bit. >>I am not really prepared to try to break in right now. We can try to find out about the owners and let our contacts try to get a bit more information. I would still like to consider a daytime entry to see what goes on here. Also, Kumiho's idea of watching the place during the day to see who might be a good target to take a badge or card from has a lot of merit.<<
-
Mother walks with Tanya. "I am curious why somone of your station would take to the shadows sugar. I have a friend like you. Sometimes I wonder if he really wanted to foster equality or just put himself at the top..." said Mother with a far away look on her face.
-
Tanya shakes her head and chuckles. "I suppose there are a couple of reasons, Mother. Perhaps they will not make sense to you, but they do to me. When I was a young girl I started stealing things from my family just because they were pretty. Nothing really valuable, but the prettier and shinier it was, the more I needed it. When I got sent off to the first of several boarding schools, I just continued. But now I was stealing from the school and the students. I got quite good at it. Eventually I grew bored of the school and arranged to get caught so that they would expel me. It was while I was in my last school that I was introduced to a real fence, someone who actually gave me money for the things I was stealing. Heaven! Nirvana! Paradise! I actually got some training in things that would help me. I guess that the bottom line is that I like to steal things for the challenge and the money, and I also continue to do it because it is what I am good at. Make any sense to you?"
"And the money can be very good. I have expensive tastes and my cousin Jeremy, who watches my trust for me, is very cost conscious. I use the proceeds from stealing things so pay my bills that are not covered by the stipend I get. And I use a good bit of it to give to several charities. Sort of a conscience sop I guess."
-
Kumiho nodes to himself more than anything. If we could access the car we might be able to pull the owners name from the Autonav system. Otherwise I would have to check with the DMV.
I do believe you are right, maybe if we return tonight with an entry plan this would be a better time to move. He lets his thoughts tumble about in several direction for moment thinking through several routes. I could leave my friend here to keep an eye on the building from one of those trees.
-
Tanya opens her team channel. >>Team. Tanya here. There is a ballet school recital in the park tonight. I was planning on attending si I could use it as a cover to try to get a look at the target buildings in the evening. I already have two tickets that are supposed to be at the will-call desk, but can arrange for more. Anyone interested? Dress is casual/informal so we do not have to get the fancy frocks out of the closet. Let me know if you want to go.<<
-
I'm sure the ballet will be nice, but I think I will monitor the building through my drone while on the grid looking for more clues on the companies relatively clean owner. Maybe I can find out where he sleeps and eats incase we need to hunt him down afterwards for more answers.
-
"I adore the ballet honey child. Are we going to 'nick' some things while we're at it?" Mother says with a smile.
-
Tanya laughs. "You know me so well already, and we have only just met. Sometimes I just cannot help myself. I will leave that to fate as to what I see that I just have to have. But I was also thinking that being here at night might give us a chance to look at the building at night and see what sort of security they may have. But let me get another ticket." Tanya sends a buy order for another ticket to be waiting at the desk, then goes back to talking. "It is refreshing to find someone with some culture. I just adore a good ballet or opera. But it is not all like that. I have a pass to the lower levels of Dante's Inferno that allows me to bring a guest. Maybe you would be interested?"
-
"I adore culture and the arts but the people that consume them generally rub me the wrong way. I figured you for one of those snobby types but I am charmed that you are more down to earth and I apologze for initially misjudging you. You wish me to follow you in to hell sugar? Well I don't get many offers like that so how can I say no?" said Mother.
-
Tanya really laughs. "No, really I am one of those snobby types. At least I was born one. Titled parents, nannies and nurses and governesses. Silver spoon in my mouth. More money than anyone ever had a right to. All of it. Then family died and I ended up all twisted in body, spirit, and mind. I should have died as well, but was ejected from the Rolls in the collision. Sometimes I still have nightmares about it all and wonder why I did not die that night. It puts a different perspective on things. I do like the ballet, the opera, plays and concerts. A lot. And I have just oodles of knowledge on lots of things. But I really use these events to size up the rich people that go and try to figure out I can separate them from their small, easily portable items."
"But believe me when I say that I appreciate your outlook. And I think that we could be good friends. As to Hell? Sure I would like you to come with me. Perhaps we can have a few days rest after getting this information and I would just love to take you with me. I think we would have a ball."
-
"Nearly dyin will change ones perspective honey. Well Dante's it is then, but for now business. What is our current plan? It keeps changing so fast I can't keep up. We are going to scope out the Return safe building to see if any employees leave? Is that it?" said Mother.
-
Tanya chuckles. "Yes, the plan does change. But I rather suspect that is the nature of working with a group. And frankly, the main reason I have never really worked with one. But this is important and I think it will take all of us. And who knows? We may all find that we can work together and stay in touch. But for now, I think we are supposed to walk past and see if anyone is coming or going. My guess is that the place is locked up on a Sunday and we will have to come back tomorrow for the inside look. But we might just get lucky and find a security guard and see if I can set him up to get to his badge or card. I can copy just about anything if I have some time."
The pair walk along the sidewalk and approach the building. For all who might be watching, they appear to be friends talking on a day out. In fact, Tanya has questions for her new friend. "So, Mother, that accent of yours is different. Where do you come from and why did you come to Seattle?
-
[Sunday, 207505121622L]
The day wears on and the local foot traffic is beginning to pick back up as people prepare for the evening, whether that be dinner or a trip to the trid theater.
There hasn't been any movement at Return Safe that anyone has seen, thus far.
Kumiho's initial searches for the man listed as the CEO, Jason Bridges, turns up little. More digging, and probably directed, will be required.
-
Tanya frowns a bit and calls up the team. >>This is Tanya. Not sure what more we will get this afternoon. I will try to see something after the ballet recital. The frock I bought is good enough so I do not need to go home to change. So far I have Mother and Requiem with me for the evening. Any others? For those with me, I am going to be famished in a trice and am thinking dinner. Any ideas of something close that would allow us to get back in time for the show?<<
-
"Honey child a woman has to retain some secrets. As much as I do adore the ballet what is our plan there? I can't project astrally without attracting attention and we can't see the entrance from there...I thought we were waiting for them to close and try to catch someone as they leave. Then try to use our feminine wiles on the staff and if that fails use magic." said Mother.
-
Tanya nods at Mother. That was the plan, but it seems that no one is on the premises right now. Could still be people working in the secret area, though. My play for the evening was to sit through the recital then see what the building looks like after dark. There may be someone leaving the building at night and we can revert to the original plan. Otherwise, I think it will be tomorrow before we can get inside for a look. My idea, anyway. Believe me, I am all ears for an alternate plan."
-
With the vehicles in the garage, I do suspect there are people in the subterranean zone. I will stand watch to see if anyone comes out. I'm also curious to see where the watchers are coming from and when. They usual exist for a few hours. Someone will have to recreate a ritual every day. Curious to see if the caster comes on site, or send them here.
-
Requiem listened to the ongoing planning, offering little at the moment, until...
"I have a discrete little drone that could be planted to record a view of the entrance while we're away. With the wifi deactivated it should remain undetected and can be retrieved later. Maybe one of you has a similar device we could plant to give us further view points?"
-
Well, if anyone is able to get a look at the licence plate on the car - when one leaves the garage, maybe I can tracking them down through the DMV. In the meanwhile I'll be in a nearby cafe - I have sent my spyfly to watch from one of the trees across from the building and will monitor from the comfort of a soycaf expresso., Kimuho says through his commlink.
Sitting down at a table at the cafe he sets himself, bring up several AR screens, only one, a small one, that links to the drone. The rest are help portray himself as a customer who is working on a personal project. The other AR screens have art projects, all in various stages to the design process. While sipping his coffee, he uses his AR Gloves shapes, warps, and colors slowly, all awhile pay more attention to the smaller screen and the target of their quarry.
-
Tanya mentally counts off. "OK. So far it seems it is Requiem, Mother, and me for the ballet and a bit of snooping afterwards. Kumiho is scouting with a drone. That leaves Kachina. Will you join the three of us or do you have a different plan?"
-
[Sunday, 207505121847L]
Sunday evening in the park on a cool Spring day. The spirits are smiling on the privileged families of Bellevue and the sky is only sparsely populated by fluffy silver clouds, their light dulling as the evening fast approaches. Several families have entered, many bringing plush lawn furniture, coolers, and not a few small cooking grills for the event. Girls in tutus as young as two, pushed to dance after their first steps, mill about with older girls of varying size, shape, and ability. Many of them practice pirouettes, brisé volé, and other maneuvers.
The mall to the north is still open, though many of the boutiques are nearing the time when they shut their doors. The restaurants anticipate patronage after the show and signs indicate they remain open through dinner hours and beyond. To the west, nothing indicates that there is anybody at Return Safe, though a quick astral scan shows that two Watcher Spirits are posted in a patrol. It will be difficult to sneak past them, especially for someone with the gift of Sight, but not impossible. Coordination will be absolutely necessary.
A few minutes before the show, the 'Mistress' calls the girls to the gazebo to prepare.
-
Kumiho sits at his table in the cafe, sipping his soylatte while watching the drone screen while also playing with a piece of art in AR. He spins the the piece, a grenade that looks like a cloud, checking for spots of imperfections. Once he is sure he has the piece where he needs it, he side swipes it away into a folder on his comm. Then he looks out the front window of the small cafe at the growing crowd of ballet goers. he nods to himself and then sends a message to the team
Commlink So I don't think we should wait a lot longer. If we can get in past the watcher spirits while the show across the street is going on it might be the best. I would hate to get in there and find out that the building is empty................................................... I keep getting this sinking suspicion that the building is just another decoy.
-
"Though not a fan of the frontal assault I am already dressed for the party. Tanya isn't getting into places your specialty? Maybe we could sneak in?" said Mother.
-
Tanya smiles, "Yes. Getting into places is my specialty. But I came here tonight for a look-see, not an entry." She sends a text to the team as she takes Mother and Requiem by the arm and walks toward the location of the ballet recital. >>Team. Tanya. I would like to be a bit better prepared than I am just now before trying to get inside. Clothing and equipment could make the difference between success and failure. It is my opinion that we should stick to the original plan and just observe tonight. Can anyone tell me about these Watcher Spirits? Are they likely to be just alarms or can they hurt me? Can they be bypassed or defeated? Would I be able to remain concealed from them wearing a chameleon suit? Please clue me in. Kumiho, is there any way to determine the security aspects of the two buildings by looking at it on the matrix?<<
Tanya stops at the ticket booth and collects her three will-call tickets and goes with her two companions to find seats. She makes an effort to walk around and introduce herself to some of the others, letting the proud parents point out their darlings in tutus. It is easy for her to be interested, but she also stays alert for any displays of jewelry, marking those people as "interesting to know" before sharing comm codes and moving on. Tanya has seen this ballet before, but only performed by professionals and it is refreshing to see how the younger people do it. She recognizes talent and hard work and is appreciative of the efforts of the students, the teachers, and the parents. When the ballet is finished, she makes a point of finding the school headmistress and offers 500 Nuyen as a small token of her regard for the work of the students. "I know this is not much, but I hope it can help a little."
During the recital, she keeps in touch with Kumiho and Kachina, staying abreast of any developments at the target building. Once the show is over, Tanya moves off slowly in the direction of the Return Safe buildings and tries to see if she can spot anything. She then sends a note to the team, >>Any news or ideas?<<
-
Mother glares at the crowd.
"Do you always give rich people's kids money to learn to do something they don't need to do? I know some kids in my neighborhood that could use that kind of money for food and clothing..." said Mother looking far away and shaking her head.
"to answer your questions 1. watchers spirits watch. They can tell someone else including another spirit to harm you. 2. They can be bypassed if you can see them only by hiding fully behind something when they look. Imagine people are like flashlights you have to block that light by getting behind an object or some other living thing. If we destroy the watchers that will cause alarms. A chameleon suit wouldn't help because your aura extends outside of it. So what's our plan? We come back tomorrow and hit them? During the day or at night?" asked Mother.
-
It would be foolish to enter without our best B&E asset not being fully equipped. Though I feel tonight could have been a good time, we'll wait till we're all ready for it.
Unless something shows up that will convince us to get in, tonight we will observe. I'm still curious to see when and how the Watchers are being switched. These entities can't stay created for more than a handful of hours. I want to see if the Mage comes on site or not.
-
Tanya first looks shocked, then ashamed at Mother's words. She puts a hand on her new friend's arm. Her sincerity is real as she softly says "Mother. I did not know. I did not mean......." She pauses, as if to make up her mind, then adds. "Sometimes it is like I cannot help myself. From your tone, I surmise that you look at these people and perhaps see those that have too much and are wasting it on ballet lessons and dance recitals, and other things. Like you, I see the wealth here, but I look at these people differently. There will be those here that remember my accent, my perfume, my looks, and my name. Some of the husbands will remember the slight touch on the arm and some of the wives will remember the knowing look. My donation was not given in private and some nearby will already have told another, in strict confidence of course, and so on and so on. There is a good chance that some of these people are already sending matrix inquiries out to see just who I am and they will find a British noblewoman with a penchant for the arts who lives in quite the posh hotel and has a member's only pass to Hell at the Inferno. I might get invitations to parties or dinners or romantic trysts. After all, inviting a genuine member of British nobility to a function or a bed still means something on this side of the pond. And it is all done with the purpose of getting into different houses and seeing what they have that I might be able to take from them."
"But I realize that I have been insensitive and I hope that you can accept my apology."
Tanya is a bit subdued for a while and walks in silence. She digests the information about the spirits then opens a channel to the team. >>Team. Tanya. OK, it seems that we have to bypass these watcher spirits as well as any matrix and physical security here. Apparently it is possible for someone to observe the spirits and keep me informed of when they are looking away. That can be extremely useful. Is it possible to put up some sort of aura shield so that they cannot tell me from the surrounding area, as if I were hidden behind something solid?<<
-
"I apologize I try to look respectable but I am not usually welcome in these circles due to my persuasion. Also being a rebel is hard on the manners. I didn't mean to cast aspersions on your business model." Mother said with a wink.
"If you ever want a tour of my neighborhood I will show you a different side of life...now back to business, I have not heard of anyway to hide someone's aura. Do we want to go in during the day or night tomorrow? I can try to influence a guard into thinking that we are meant to be there and if that doesn't work I can have a spirit possess him and he can give us a tour. It will only work until someone asks the guard what we are doing as the spirit might not be able to convince anyone he is the guard. I could run interference and talk to anyone who does ask what we are doing and even pull the same influence trick on them." said Mother.
-
Commlink" Ok. I'll hack back into the Return Safe LTD host and see what I can discover from their security camera systems. Maybe even pull a license number from the car(s) in the garage.".
Kumiho switches himself over to cold sim, slumping in his seat. A status message appears above his head in AR: (https://photos-2.dropbox.com/t/2/AACTd9wpoKvAKa_uwruNHKdaYqHh5gkwxhFyKms7saDNJw/12/5425800/jpeg/32x32/1/_/1/2/sb10069449p-001.jpg/ENHqhwQYgA8gASgB/Es-lt2TYwHifH_0uGQ6g00hYfMuzsB7BhG9PxLXQbqQ?size=1280x960&size_mode=2)
-
Tanya nods to Mother. "Perhaps we should both spend some time in the other's shoes, so to speak. I would be glad to walk your area some day."
"As for a visit, I like the idea of a daytime visit first. I would like to get the feel of the building and what they publicly admit to doing. I also think a nighttime visit is warranted. What time do you want to go in tomorrow? I will be ready and can arrange to pick you up in the hotel car if you like. Let me know where."
Tanya pauses then chuckles, "And the business model, as you call it, does work. I go to parties, I visit homes, I get invited to sleep with people. It all helps me feed my habits and pay my bills."
-
Nothing of interest had happened yet by the building. It was going to be a long night and possibly a boring night.
Why don't you girls and Requiem go rest and get your gear ready while Kumiho and I take care of tonight's watch. No need getting all tired for tomorrow. Please stay on stand-by to be called at anytime, but at least get some rest.
We'll catch a few hours in the morning and if we don't see anything that will make us change our mind, let's plan for an initial entering for right after lunch time.
It was probably her nurturing nature speaking, but she saw no point in having all of the team stay awake all night when they'll need everyone's focus on the next day. It seemed Kumiho had still a lot of work to do, and with her ability to see on the Astral plan, the two should be enough for tonight's watch.
-
Tanya nods and responds to the message from Kachina. >>Roger. Heading for home. back about noonish.<< Turning to the other two she says, "I came here on a Mirage. It can take two in a pinch. Does anyone need a lift home?"
-
Requiem mused on the merits of a daylight entry...even if the place was as deserted as it seemed the exfil would be considerably harder with the wide awake Bellevue life all around. Still, it was Kachina's call, he'd seconded her for the job and wasn't about to second guess her in front of the others...perhaps a quiet word later on would be needed, but for now he was happy enough to accede to the suggestion of a good night's sleep, his bones ached... the toile of the life he had lead, one that didn't seem likely to change any time soon.
>>Ok, I'll be on standby. If someone wants me to bring the big guns I'll need some transport later, one with plenty of space inside...but I hope that won't be necessary, we're not going to war after all<<
Just before he left he offered Kachina marks on his drone so that she would have access to it should the need arise...
-
[Sunday, 207505122032L]
As most of the group leaves, Kachina and Kumiho begin their respective watches. More spirits begin to show as the evening deepens, until around 10pm when it appears that whatever spirits are around have filled the 'security quota' of the area.
Recasting Clairvoyance, Kachina gets the license plates of the vehicles and passes them on to Kumiho. He does a quick check and finds that they are legitimately registered to Return Safe, as owned by Jason Bridges. They are recent purchases, coinciding with when the company was incorporated, a few months ago.
Everything is fairly quiet, until about 11pm, when... someone exits the building?
Kumiho's drone is able to take some pictures, but as dark as it is, it is hard to make out the face. The man is dressed smartly, however, in a suit that Tanya (were she there) would attest to being of high quality. Kumiho can see his icon. The man walks towards a vehicle parked about a block away, a grey BMW X89, a high end luxury car, but conservative in style and not out of place in this neighborhood.
[Sunday, 207505122303L]
-
Kumiho, returns to his meat after finding no manageable way to connect to the buildings internal security and resumes his visual.
When the man exists the building Kumiho tries to follow the man with the drone stealthily, and when the man gets to the the grey BMW, he'll have the drone take a snap shot of the vehicle's license plate.
Drone Stealth roll
Drone Sneak/Fly - Edged (http://orokos.com/roll/307573): 10d6t5 5
Exploding 6's
exploding 6's (http://orokos.com/roll/307574): 4d6t5 3
exploding 6's (http://orokos.com/roll/307575): 1d6t5 1
-
A quick run of the license plate finds it to be in the same category as the vehicles in the garage, owned by Return Safe under the authority of Jason Bridges. The address is listed as the Return Safe HQ building here.
-
After this information is relayed.
"Maybe tomorrow evening we should lay in wait for the man in the fancy suit and take him for a drive?" asked Mother.
-
That is assuming that he comes out every night. Another thing that can be done is to follow said person now. I could land my small drone on the back of the car and have it place a stealth RFID tag?
I have already checked out the license number and its like the other one. Its connected to the building and Jason Bridges. So finding out where it is going might be more helpful.
-
Tanya grimaces a bit. She is almost back to the hotel by now. >>I am on my bike and can follow. If your drone tag can relay information I do not even need to be very close. Send me the feed and we can work on an intercept course.<< Tanya makes a u-turn and heads back in the direction of Bellevue. She calls up her grid guide and uses it to plot the best course to get in the vicinity of the car.
-
Kachina's first instinct was to assense the man, see if he had any magical talent.
<<We appreciate your desire to help Tanya but you should be in bed already. Trust your teammates.
If anything I'd rather have you gear up than roam the roads chasing car.>>
<<Kumiho, take my car to follow him.>>
-
"I have a car, Kumiho and I can follow him." said Mother.
-
Tanya laughs softly to herself and slowly turns the bike back around, heading to the hotel. She parks in her designated spot and notices that Petra's rather distinctive auto is in her guest slot. Tanya's pulse quickens a bit at the thought of the lithe trid reporter. Taking her things from the storage compartments, she enters the hotel, waving at the night clerk as she passes through the expansive lobby. She heads off to the bank of private elevators, taking one to the third sub-level.
As Tanya enters the suite, she sees Petra and Monique sitting on the couch, engaged in whichever of the new VR trid games has captured their attention. This particular one seems to be some sort of race thing and the pair are flinging their hands about as they move their VR racers about the track. The detritus of a room-service dinner is stacked near the door, waiting for someone from the hotel concierge staff to take away. Tanya moves farther into the room as Petra says without looking away from the track, "Almost have her this time, dear. Just one more..............Argh!" Petra yells out as Monique lets out a yelp of triumph. The reporter slips her VR goggles off her head and grimaces. "Fragging last corner! I was ahead on the fragging last corner."
Monique laughs as she removes her own goggles. "You always put too much gas on in the last corner, cherie. I was waiting for it. Maybe next time."
The French maid picks up the VR equipment and puts it in the small cabinet built into the couch before coming to take her mistress' bags and moving off to the bedroom. Petra, mutters, "Not much of a chance of that. She is always one step ahead, maybe two." She looks at Tanya and smiles as she embraces her. "And how was your evening?"
After the passionate kiss, Tanya says, Not too bad. I made some new acquaintances among the Bellevue social crowd. Some might even be worth knowing professionally."
Petra holds up her hands. "Is this related to the company you were asking about? I am sorry, but I still have no information for you."
Tanya shakes her head, "No, just purely for fun at this point. And don't worry about looking further. The company seems to want to be buried deep and I do not want you to be at risk. My new partners are working on other ways to get information. These guys are good, Petra. I think that I could learn to like to be in a relatively permanent group instead of just picking up people as I go. A bonus is that they seem quite nice."
Monique comes out of the bedroom and tells the two that she has started the shower. Tanya thanks her and takes Petra's hand as she leads the way to the bedroom and the private excitement that follows.
-
Roger that Kachina. I'll be there in two shakes.
Kumiho has his drone attach the stealth RFID tag, and then sets the drone pilot to return to its last objective - which was watching the building from the nearby tree. He then gathers up his stuff and head to Kachina's car, bringing the RFID tag up on his commlink.
Finally, something exciting to do, he thinks to himself. And here I thought I was wasting my day.
-
Walking up to her apartment Mother texted the team- Once we locate Mr Fancy suit I could mindprobe him to find out what we need to know.
Mother heard the thumping before she reached her apartment and sighed.
"Viva la revolution." Mother said frowning.
She opened the door to her apartment and saw a several people dancing to orc glitchstep. Terr0r waved a beer at her spilling it. She was dancing with an androgenous figure, Distr3ss.
"I've got work in the morning don't stay up too late." said Mother pushing through the crowd.
Mother opened and closed her bedroom door. Putting away her gun in the nightstand she heard breathing.
"Damn it. Scoot over." said Mother getting into bed with Revere in his pajamas with earplugs and a sleep mask. Mother changed into her pajamas and squeezed in with revere and bemoaned not learning the silence spell.
-
Kachina takes a moment to assense the man and notes his aura before summoning a spirit and instructing it to follow him, and then report back where he goes.
Afterwards, she and Kumiho drive a minute or two behind the man. The RFID tag shows his route and Kumiho is able to sketch alternate travel patterns to make it nearly impossible to tell that they are following someone. Traveling east, after about 12 minutes, Kachina's spirit returns, informing her that he has gone into a 'Place of Shiney' just down the road, but that he cannot follow further because there are 'Meanies' keeping him away.
As Kachina relays this information to Kumiho, he nods, pointing ahead at to where the man has handed the keys of the BMW to a red coated valet in front of The Classic, a well known hotel and casino. The pair keep on driving past as the two of them watch the man enter through the main entrance. Even at this time of night, on a Sunday, the place is alive and full of people.
Continuing down the road at a moderate pace, the soon reach the next intersection...
-
Kachina thanked the Spirit.
Kumiho, did you managed to get an visual on the man's face. does it match any of the high ranked of the Company that we have on file? It seems to me like he had a long day in the office and is eager to get some distraction. Let see if we can get some info on who run the casino, the official and unofficial way, in the meantime. The place is warded but that's not surprising for a Casino.
I think he will stay there for a couple hours then head back home, but that's really just supposition. Let's wait fr him not too far. What do you think?
-
Its not the best picture of the guy but it will work, once we have something to compare it to. Kumiho looks at the picture taken earlier by his drone on his commlink and saves it to a folder called Suspects.
Ya, we can chill here for a while. I still have the Fly Spy hanging out in front of the building - after it dropped the tag, I had it return to the tree to continue to watch for any activity just in case.
-
Good. The Classic is warded. And in general, magic security is very high in Casinos You know... mind reading, clairvoyance and telekinesis could really be misused. The hotel itself should be much less looked upon but I would rather get to the man once he gets out.
-
[Monday, 207505130302L]
The night wears on and the crowds soon thin out, until only the die hards are left in the Casino and bar sections. The man has not yet left the building.
-
Kumiho stifles a yawn. He hated nights like this, but the biz desired it occasionally just the same.
Well, if doesn't come out by morning I think we send someone in. I have a feeling he may have slipped out the back. But on top of that, who ever comes to releave us, should bring caffeine.
-
Mother wakes up earlier than she would like and notices Revere is gone. She checks her commlink with a shrug. Sit Rep? she texts the team dressing and strapping on her weapon. She walks through the living room stepping over punks laying on the floor. She drives straight to the nearest coffee shop and get's a tray of soykaff for everyone. While there she asks if Revere is in his "office". She gets a nod and goes in the back.
"Hello darling. You didn't molest me in my sleep, not even a little bit. I'm offended. You also missed a wonderful ballet they were so cute. You never got back to me about what explosives you have on hand. Also I have a new request. Can you get me Laes? I need it soon."
Revere looks tired and annoyed.
-
[Monday, 207505130547L]
@ Mother
Revere looks to Mother as she steps in and yawns. "Laes, yes. Explosives... I can make a list of everything, or you can save us all some time by asking me what you need, specifically.
@ Kumiho & Kachina
The night wears on into the early morning, and then to dawn. Despite taking some turns at napping, you both are very tired.
@ Others
It's almost 6 am... perhaps you are still asleep, or perhaps you have gotten up.
-
Tanya's internal clock is set for 6 AM and she wakes up and slips out of the bed to use the bathroom. Coming back she nudges Petra, "Hey, sleepyhead. Rise and shine. Short run today then got our time at the racquetball court." She moves to the dresser and pulls out two sets of running clothes as her bed partner of the night grumbles and goes to the bathroom. Petra looks much better when she returns. She starts dressing and smirks, "I always knew I would regret letting you talk me into this exercise drek."
"Yes, but it is doing wonders for your figure. You look so much better without that little extra you were starting to carry about." Tanya laughs and ducks a sock as she leaves the room, followed a minute later by Petra. Monique is already up and has some juice ready. She looks at the two women and says, "I have called to confirm your court time at 0700. Do not be late. You remember what happened the last time."
Tanya grimaces, tosses back the juice, and heads for the door, followed by Petra. The two women stretch on the street outside the lobby and go on a short run. Once back they head to the hotel gym in time for their racquetball court appointment. Tanya may be the better runner, but Petra is clearly the better at this game, soundly defeating Tanya several times in the allotted time they have the court. As they leave to make room for the next pair, they see two men toweling away sweat from the next court over. They have seen the men before and exchange pleasantries and talk about perhaps arranging a foursome. The men look the women up and down and slap high-fives as Tanya and Petra head to the room and a much-needed shower. After a leisurely room service breakfast, Petra busses Tanya's cheeks and blows a kiss to Monique as she heads to the door. "Next time the track is mine. I will be more careful in that last turn."
Monique laughs, "But you will forget something else, Cherie. You always do."
Petra laughs as she leaves and Tanya turns to Monique. OK. Meeting at noonish. I want to be togged up as myself to make a show at this company's office, so I will need one of the hotel cars to take me to Bellevue. Put a LBD in a bag in case I get a chance to use it. I will want my gear stowed and ready to load on the bike." Talking, the pair move into the planning room, where Tanya pushes some buttons to expose the hidden racks of stealth and B&E equipment while Monique calls the concierge to arrange for the car. They go over the items Tanya normally adds to the chameleon suit and then she adds a couple more. "Hmmm. That should do it, I think. It appears that there is some wanker using spirit guards on the buildings, but we may have a way around that. Please have everything ready to go when I return this evening. If I do not use it tonight, I almost certainly will need it tomorrow night."
The two women move back into the master bedroom where Tanya dresses out as a proper British noblewoman. She watches while Monique pulls a very nice black evening dress from the closet and lays it out on the bed and brings matching shoes and clutch. Tanya nods and give her maid the address she expects to be at. "Be on the road and in the area of this ARO with the bike and the dress. Don't forget some of that nice musk that seems to get attention and I think the pearls. I will try to let you know if you need to bring the suit as well."
Tanya leaves the bedroom for the living area and sends a message. >>Team. Tanya. Good morning. I am ready for the daytime insertion. Mother, tell me where to meet you with the limo and we can ride to the target in style. Kumiho and Kachina, how was the watch? Anything we need to know about that might change our plans? Were you able to keep tabs on the car that left the building?<<
-
Requiem also began his preparations for the day early. He disliked the notion of going in to the offices blind... they didn't even really know what Return Safe did so he hoped Tanya's play acting was up to scratch. A bout at the dojo worked the kinks out of his muscles and ensured that his wires were synced. They were getting old now, almost as old as him, and it paid to keep an eye on them. He was just as glad that the glitchy move by wire system that Ares had originally stuffed in him had been replaced by much smoother and more modern reflex boosters...
Despite the vague promise of heat in the day he slung his long coat on and ensured his pistols were tucked out of sight. Then took the Growler out of the secure parking and prepared to head back into Bellevue. He would have to keep his distance from the site but he wanted to be on hand in case he was needed...
-
Kumiho checked the time again, for the 8th time in the last 12 minutes. Then he glanced about like he was waiting/looking for someone.
Then he looks back at his Commlink when it suddenly chirps at him, AROs popping up in front of him. He looks a little confused for a moment then say,
Morning Mother. Yes and No. A man came out some time during the night and we followed him discreetly. However, now we are out front of this casino that he went into. If someone could re-leave us here, while others at up watch on the return safe, that would be good.
-
Tanya takes the elevator to the lobby and walks through the lavish space to the street exit, thanking the uniformed doorman for opening the door for her. Alphonse is waiting at the covered curb and smoothly moves to open the door of the Rolls limousine. Tanya returns his smile and greeting, "Beautiful morning, Alphonse. I was hoping to have you today." Tanya stops for a moment and girds herself to enter the luxurious auto. For an instant she is transported back to the night when everything changed. The oncoming auto, being ejected through the sunroof she was standing in, the fire and explosion, all of it.
Alphonse gives her time to climb in before shutting the door and entering the driver's compartment. After giving directions, Tanya sits back in the seat and runs an appreciative hand over the sumptuous leather. She calls up the news feeds on her 'link and surfs until she finds what she is looking for. There is a good article about the ballet recital in Bellevue. The performance has received a deserved rave review and the author gushes about the various children of the social elite attending the school. Part of the article mentions the socialy elite parents of some of the students and some of their guests. Tanya smiles broadly as she notes that she has received a mention. ---"An added surprise was the attendance of British heiress and socialite, Lady Tanya Marisart. She was noted mingling with the parents. I had the opportunity to speak with her for a minute and she impressed me with her knowledge of the ballet and the program presented tonight. She mentioned by name the main dancers and applauded their efforts. I understand from an anonymous source that she is a contributor to the school's scholarship fund."--- The bit is followed by some trid views from the reporter's cameraman and some unidentified contributors of the parents and dancers and Tanya sees herself in more than one. She chuckles, thinking, *Perfect. Just perfect. It will be easy to prove my location last night.*
Tanya sends a message to the team. >>Team. Tanya. I am in the Rolls headed to pick up Mother, so I need a good location for a meet to pick her up. My background is set for walking into the building. My plan is to say that I was at the recital last night and noticed the building as I left. I am intrigued by the company name and wondering if they are an investment and securities firm because I am interested in trying to find a local institution that can handle part of my trust fund. Good idea? Bad idea? And a casino, eh? I wonder if a flutter at the tables is warranted for tonight?<<
-
Mother says to Revere "I know as much about explosives as I do square dancing. I want something I can push a button on my commlink and detonate or push a button and set a timer, also big enough to knock a door down if it is set pressed against it. If that is doable let me know when I can pick it up and where. The Laes I would like now if I can."
Finishing up with Revere Mother sends a message that she can be picked up at the coffee shop. She waits with a tray of soykaffs for everyone slowly cooling.
-
If you plan to hit the place today, I suggest you wait until later after me and Kachina have caught some z's
-
Tanya smiles as she gives the coffee shop address to Alphonse and the fine auto turns gently to the new direction. >>Roger, Mother. I am on the way to pick you up. Kumiho, I am not planning on hitting anything. It is just a daylight look-see. However, I can find other things for us to do if you and Kachina feel that we should wait a bit. Mother and I will be at your location soon with coffee.<<
-
Its just a suggestion. It would be terribly inconvenient if you needed the decker and he was asleep. ;D
-
Tanya responds. >>No, I understand. Just not used to working with a group. be bad, indeed, if I needed the decker and he was asleep. I am flexible. Pulling up to Mother's location in a minute and will be your location soon.<<
-
After a few minutes, the limo pulls up at the location Mother gave. Alphonse gets out of the auto and goes to assist Mother. "Good morning Miss. May I hold that while you get into the vehicle?" The ever-polite chauffeur opens the door to the auto and takes the tray so that Mother can climb in. After making sure that both women are seated he hands the carry tray in and carefully closes the door. Tanya takes the tray and looks at Mother. "Good morning, love. I hope that you slept well. I know that I certainly did. But it sounds like our friends had a long night in a car." Taking a sniff at the carry tray, she adds, "Mmmmm. Smells good. I love a good caf in the morning, although I do find I prefer tea the rest of the day."
After giving Alphonse the new destination, Tanya sits back in the auto and enjoys the ride. She sends a message out, >>Mother and I are on the way to the meet. We have soycaf.<<
-
"Dahling as much as I need my beauty rest my place is a riot many a night of the week. It's my fault I guess for the company I keep. I did get some shut eye though. So what is the plan?" asked Mother.
-
Tanya looks at Mother, "I just have to come to your house some time to see what you are describing. Right now we are on the way to meet the others and deliver this tray of soycaf. Hopefully we will work out a plan there. My initial thought was to take you with me to go see the Return Safe place in the daylight. Here, look at this." Tanya sends the news feed to Mother. "See, my ploy last night is already giving benefits. It is pretty obvious that I was at the recital last night. I had thought to visit the offices in search of an investment firm to handle some of my trust fund. Our little visit to the recital was to get us noticed so that I can say I saw the buildings as I was going to the recital and am wondering if they can help me. Just low key and harmless. If Kachina gives the OK we are on. We arrive in the Rolls and go see what the place does. That is plan A. anyway. What do you think?"
-
"I think money is the best smoke screen sugar. I would say you are interested in hearing about there services and then ad details if they don't provide them. I don't know we'll learn much but taking a look see shouldn't hurt." said Mother.
-
Tanya laughs. "Money is a great screen. Anyway, that is my plan. I think it would work to just get in the door."
-
[Monday, 207505130732L]
Kumiho and Kachina start up the engine and are about to head off when they notice the car they followed pull out from the garage to a waiting man. He looks like he could be the man they followed the night prior, and in the morning light it is easy to make out the details.
He is dressed in another fine suit and as he takes the keys from the valet, Kumiho manages to get some pictures.
He heads west and after a few blocks, it is plain to see he is heading back to the Return Safe office. On that hunch, they leave off following him all the way in.
Looking over the photographs and video, he looks fresh and rested, not a man who spent the night drinking and gambling. He looks to be in his mid 30s, maybe low 40s, human with black hair. There is no graying. He looks very alert and fit, his tailored suit enhancing his rugged attractiveness.
Anyone looking at the video sees the movements of a man trained for action. Kachina is the first to notice the holstered pistol, the bulk of it creating an unseemly lump in his jacket as he bends to get in the car. Straightening up to drive, it is hidden completely again, his suit fittings tailored to account for the holster.
-
One thing was for sure, her Jackrabbit was not ideal for a night watch surveillance. In spite of a few nap then and there, she felt the lack sleep kicking in when the sun rose on the horizon.
All they had to do now is wait for the other to relieve them, but seeing the man coming out of the hotel woke her up better than caffeine would have. The excitement, the adrenaline, who knew?
The man is mundane but he's sharp. I wouldn't doubt he was combat trained. We're not dealing with simple bureaucrats here. Which is not too surprising for a Security Consulting business.
Kachina and Kumiho waited until the rest of the team came back. The first few sip of Soycaf felt just great.
-
Tanya sits Kachina and Kumiho as they down the soycaf. "So, what is our play? Do Mother and I go for the daylight look-see or go wait somewhere for the pair of you to get some sleep? My plan might not arouse any suspicion..............just another airhead rich woman, but I am sure that Mother, Requiem, and I can find something to do while you rest if you want."
-
I say give us about 6 hours then good ahead with your ploy. Atfer 6 hours of rest I can give you backup - its early enough now that by then the business will be still open. Glances at clock in his AR setup.
So we should be good to go at 2pm. Good?
-
Tanya nods then looks at Mother and Requiem. "So what do we do with a few hours to ourselves?"
-
Kumiho got some shots of the man we tailed during the night. Why don't try to see if you guys can get any sort of info as to who it is and what dirt you can find on him. We'll be there by 2pm.
-
Tanya nods. "Send the file." As Kumiho sends the pics over to the rest of the team, Tanya looks at them. "Nice. Good physique. This bloke is in good shape and wears his suit well. Hmmm. Suit looks fresh. He either has a room there or managed to stay clean and unwrinkled some way. On the handsome side, too. Too bad he is on the other side."
Tanya looks at Mother and Requiem. "Ok, so do I drop you guys off somewhere or do we stay together on this? I did not arrange to have the Rolls all day, so I might need to call in a request if this is to be our mode of travel. I am afraid that my only other option is a Mirage bike, which is not meant for all three of us."
Tanya selects the best couple of shots and send them on to Petra and Ni Ni. >>Please check this guy out if you can and see if you can find out anything about him. Good looking wanker, isn't he? He is involved in my latest case.<< She sends the pics out to her club girl contact, Mary Stokes, as well. >>Hey sweetie. Tanya here. Sending you some pics of a bloke I am interested in. He apparently goes to casinos and you may have seen him about. Can you give me any information on him? Thanks. Owe you if you have anything. Ta.<<
-
"I have an Americar I can call it and it will meet us" said Mother.
-
Kachina was happy to be able to catch a quick rest before start of the afternoon. She quickly checked if Barnaby had left a message of some sort, then she dosed off in the Astral World for a few minutes as she found it helped relax her meat body and fall asleep quickly once she went back to it. Strange habit, but Shamanic folks all had their quirks.
-
"So what do we do with a few hours to ourselves?"
"Watch and wait I suspect. Get a feel for the area, KE patrols, anything that might impact our insertion. Of course we don't want to be seen to be watching..."
-
@ Tanya
A message from Petra reveals no new information, which was not surprising. Sorry, Tanya, not on my radar. But he is cute!
However, Ni Ni offers something a bit more tantalizing:
Wow, haven't seen that guy for a minute. Shadowrunner, goes by Steelbit. never got a real name, always paid in credsticks handed over. Untraceable, both ways. Hope you're not planning on rubbing this guy the wrong way. He's a solid professional. That means dangerous. If I recall, he's a hitter. But smart.
@ All
[Monday, 207505131348L]
Everybody is rested and mostly refreshed. Arrival in the area has everyone on their A-game in case something goes awry, though the plan is for just the slightest initial contact...
-
Kumiho sets himself up in a nearby cafe again - ordering a granda to keep his inner spirits up and energized.
Ok team, I am setup for your journey into the belly of the beast. Whats the plan?
-
Kachina greet the rest of the team. She was now in a much more alert state than she was this morning after a night long surveillance session.
So, Tanya, time to put on your Show. Who do you want coming in with you? If you deem necessary I can alter your appearance. It would be a shame but it can help avoiding being recognized later on. Kumiho, make sure we get a video and audio signal from the infiltrating team.
Requiem, you're the strong one here. Want to be back up of forefront?
-
Does any of them have cyber eyes on a wireless signal? I could tie that to my deck and use them for visual. I can also have them carry some stealth RFID tags.
-
"I would appreciate my face being changed. Or I could be invisible. I have a microcamera I could use for a video feed. I'm ready when you are." said Mother.
-
Tanya agrees with Petra. >>He does look delicious, doesn't he?<< She also sends a note to Ni Ni. >>Thank you for the note and the warning. Any known affiliations among your rivals? Much appreciated, love. Need to meet soon for dinner.<<
"Hmmm. No, I think I want to be me. My cover is pretty good for this casual look-see. I made an effort to be noticed at the ballet recital last night and I do have a reputation in society circles, so it should be OK for me to be myself. And I have the frock to go with it. By the way, I did call in and got the Rolls for the afternoon." She laughs. "Now I owe a favor to the concierge. He mentioned taking his niece to Dante's one night. She has apparently been hounding him about it since he found out about my pass there."
She looks at Kumiho and says, "Sorry, no cyber eyes. Got some goggles coming over later, but they do not match the frock."
Tanya scans the rest of the team. "Se we are a go for the easy insertion? Mother and I will go in and just see what we can find out about what they do there. Track us but no intervention unless things go very south. Oh, and by the way, that bloke you guys were watching last night? Runner with a street name of Steelbit. He is a platinum-grade hitter with a solid rep for being very smart. My contact warned me to avoid pissing him off." She smiles. "That sort of makes it all the more fun. I have a LBD frock coming out to meet me this evening if we decide to place a couple of us at the casino to bump into him there. I have been in there before for a flutter and I recall that it is nice. I am trying to get a pass for the night for Tanya Marisart and guest. Just in case.
-
Ok, I'll link up with Mother's Cam and that should be good for now. Any key phrases you want to use in case there is trouble and you want back up or any other kind of assist. Also, so we are clear - currently I will not be able to do anything with their security systems since its on it own remote host. So i wont have access to it until we do a full breach.
-
"Noted. I'll be here on the outside in case things go awry. Hopefully we can get some solid intel that will enable us to mount a coordinated strike tonight"
-
Tanya thinks then says, "Kumiho, how about some sentence that includes the words Dante's Inferno? That would not be totally out of character for me to use in a conversation and we can use it for my emergency signal."
-
Sounds good to me.
-
Great. Kumiho, Requiem, we'll stay at close proximity in case we need to come in. Tanya, Mother, remember there's a very skill assassin inside. I trust your skill and judgement but stay on the alert, we're not dealing with your average corp wageman here. Kumiho get the feed from Mother's camera and share it with Requiem and myself. Do you have any RFID Tag you could add to Tanya's outfit, so we can get audio at least on her side. If you somehow get split up I want to have feed from both.
She made sure no one was around paying any attention to them and grabbed Mother's hand. It was much bigger than hers and she could feel despite the cream and manicure the roughness of the skin, reflective of a her harder upbringing. She stared at Mother and the Voodoo man/woman could feel the Mana passing through there connected hands.
May the Thunderbird keep you safe. She added. Requiem, Kumiho and Tanya now had in front of them a nice looking woman with curly blond hair and a pale skin that contrasted sharply with what Mother looked like a second ago. Her traits were softer. and though quite cute, she was not catching the attention the way Tanya would.
Camera should also register you as you look now. You two stay safe and in contact. And yes the Dante's reference sounds like a proper key phrase. Let's hope you won;t have to use it. Now remember: Data gathering only. We know what the inside look like, ideally you get info of what's happening downstairs, and most importantly, find out where their main host is. That's going to be Kumiho's target tonight if all goes well.
-
Nods and hands off the Stealth RFID tag to Tanya.
You probably want to put this somewhere where it wont fall out or be as easily found. It has a sticky side, so you could even just stick it to your flesh. Pighting!
-
Tanya nods and takes the tag. Lifting her skirt she places the tag on the outside of her upper thigh. Smiling, she stands up and drops the skirt. "Not likely to be inviting anyone inside to be looking there." She gets more serious. "Kumiho, what am I looking for that might tell me the information you are looking for?"
She goes to the large car with the new Mother. Alphonse, who has been waiting patiently, springs forward to open the door. If he is surprised to see Tanya with someone new, he does not show it. Once inside the car, Tanya gives the address for the target building and sits back in the seat for the ride. When they arrive, she puts a hand out as Mother reaches for the door. "Let Alphonse get the door, ducks." As the two women emerge, Tanya takes Mother's arm in hers and they walk to the entrance of the building.
As they enter she separates from Mother and walks up to the counter. In her most cultured British accent, Tanya says, "Good afternoon. My name is Tanya Marisart and I do hope that you can help me. I was attending a ballet recital across the street last night and noticed your building as I drove up. I asked some people there what you did and someone said that they thought it was asset and securities management. If that is true, I would like to talk to someone about protecting some of my assets."
She expects that any good security system is already running facial recognition software on her and digging her name and all sorts of information about her from what is available on the open matrix.
-
Kumiho thinks for a moment before answering
Keep an eye out for the type of security they have any where any security stations are located. Since they don't have their security system attached to the main host - then it is doubtful that i can patch into it from just any location or computer - except through a Security console or something like that.
-
The thing that Mother and Tanya first notice is how empty the building is. Even as they enter, they note that there seem to be no other employees beside the young and attractive receptionist. The girl has coffee skin and her hair curls into a short afro. There are no seats in the waiting room.
She looks up as Tanya walks in and smiles. "Oh, good afternoon. Asset and securities...? I am afraid not. We deal more in... private security."
She smiles, giving them a moment to digest the brief correction.
There is a feeling that she is watching you both, keeping you, in the moment, from scanning the area more fully.
-
Mother hangs back and uses astral sight for a minute. She defers to Tanya letting her speak.
-
Tanya stood for a moment then said. "Personal security? Like bodyguards? Hmmm. How lucky for me. I like to party and am a bit concerned about going to some of the fringe clubs by myself or with a girlfriend. Do you have anyone I can talk to about what you offer?"
-
The woman smiles, but the expression never reaches her eyes. There is a moment of silence that stretches on for just a moment too long before she responds.
"Of course. I warn you, that we've only just set up shop and are still in the process of getting our office here situated. I would be happy to make an appointment for you to speak with our Operations Manager." She waves a hand and an AR screen floats before her.
As Mother takes it in astrally, she is perhaps not entirely startled to see that the receptionist is awakened but what is surprising is that the woman has a greater concentration of raw magic power than she does. In addition, the woman wears a torc styled bracelet that exudes strong power.
-
Tanya nods. "Yes, please, if you would be so kind. My name is Lady Tanya Marisart and I reside at the Undersound Hotel in Suite U3A." She draws a small tablet from her handbag and consults it, sending over an ARO with a phone number. "I am sure that you have the hotel number in your records, but this will get you my suite. What appointment times are available and I will check my date book? I do have references, if you require them."
-
The woman nods, again consulting the ARO screens, when the man from the night before steps into the receptionists large office from the rear north door (the left hand side at the back of the office).
"Ah, Cassandra, who are these lovely ladies?"
The receptionist turns back to address the man. "Oh, Mr. Bridges, this is Ms. Marisart and... her companion. They were inquiring about our purpose here. She mistakenly thought we were perhaps an investment firm. I;ve informed her that our services are more direct."
Mr. Bridges smiles and look up at Tanya with a chuckle. "Yes, not quite an investment firm. But please, come with me to my office and we can speak more of it."
He turns and exits from the opposite door at the rear of the receptionists office, beckoning them to come around. They do so, opening the door and entering into the large rear office just to the right of the receptionists office. It is well furnished and comfortable, as well as professional. There is a large desk with an opulent office chair, crafted from wood and exotic upholstery. Two smaller chairs own the space in front of the desk, but this is not where Mr. Bridges is.
He stands next to an armchair placed at the head of a wooden coffee table, inlaid with golden filigree. A loveseat is placed alongside the coffee table with its back to the wall and another armchair is placed opposite the one Jason is sitting at. The fourth side of the coffee table is simply open to the room. The furniture is of the highest quality and the amazingly detailed rug on the floor really brings the room together.
"Please, take a seat. Coffee? Or Tea? Something else?"
-
"Real coffee I assume darling?" Said Mother texting Tanya under the table.
The receptionist is awakened and quite powerful.
Mother as sensed the room they were in.
-
Tanya smiles and nods at Mr. Bridges. She follows him as invited and goes into the office. Her skilled eye takes in the opulence of the office, recognizing the craftsmanship put into the desk and the rest of the furniture. The rug almost mesmerizes her as she moves with Mother to the love seat. She was born and raised into luxury and her lessons at finishing school comes to the fore as she carefully takes a seat, sitting demurely on the edge of the seat. She nods her head at the rug, "You have very good taste, Mr. Bridges, I must say. But I have to say that I am particularly taken with the amazing rug. It certainly puts what I have in my flat to shame."
Tanya smiles at the invitation. "Definitely tea for me. Milk, please, if you have it." When the tea and coffee arrive, Tanya notes the exquisite detail on the china set and looks up at their host. "Believe it or not, I grew up with a set that could have been made alongside this one. Mum only brought it out for special occasions. Now, shall I pour out?"
Tanya expertly pours the coffee and tea into the dainty cups and holds the tongs over the sugar bowl as she gives a questioning look at Mr. Bridges. She puts the indicated number of lumps of sugar into the cups and pours some milk as requested. Sitting back, she sips at the delicious tea, savoring the aroma and flavor. She puts the cup down on the saucer and leans back just a bit as she looks up at the man. "Yes, well. To put it bluntly, I have made a right mess of things and hope that you can forgive my misunderstanding. However, all may still come right. I do happen to be in the market for someone to accompany me to various social functions. It has been pointed out to me on a number of occasions that I take far too many chances by going out to some of the more.....fringe clubs on my own or with one of my good friends." Here she gently touches Mother's arm. "Perhaps it is time I looked into having my own protection, as it were. So, what do you need to know about me? I am sure that the very capable and astute young woman in the outer office is already digging up the public particulars, but is there anything of special interest to you?"
-
Requiem waited anxiously...outwardly totally calm, even his aura (what was left of it) would reveal little of his emotional state... this felt all to like sticking your head in to the lion's mouth to see if it would bite...
-
Kumiho watches. So Jason Bridges and Steelbit are the same person.. or is Jason Bridges a name used by multiple people to use as a cover, he thinks to himself.
-
"The coffee is real, if you like," he says to Mother. "Though some are used to soykaf, so I carry that as well. I'll assume the real thing for you, the?"
With that, he takes a few moments to prepare the coffee and tea.
"The rug is an imported Persian. It's hard to say that it's the real thing, not many new rugs coming from there any more, but there are some who hold the traditions of crafting them still in the Middle East, as it were."
He maintains the small talk as one accustomed to such before making a deal, politely remarking on the china set and its origins, while allowing Tanya to pour. When she gets to the point, he stops and listens before making his own remarks.
"We are indeed a company with leanings towards private and personnel security. We haven't had any clients just yet, as we are only just setting up shop, however, I don't think it would be jumping the gun to begin the process of preparing for our first client. I am curious, however, where you heard of us? Our signage doesn't particularly face the park..."
There are no notable cameras in the room, though that doesn't mean there aren't any, just that they are well hidden.
-
Without blinking, Tanya says with a chuckle, "Yes. I do think it an odd placement for a sign if you want to advertise. I was talking to Councilman Viggers (real councilman from Bellevue) at the recital last night (I was) and we got to talking about investments and shelters (I was). Someone, I do not exactly know who, referred me here. She told me that she was not sure, but that the name sounded like a cute variation on an investment firm. I agreed and was curious enough to decide to drop by today and find out for myself. It would have been nice to get some of my money in a local investment firm, but there you have it. Wrong sort of return, although It is still a cute play on the words."
Tanya picks up the tea cup and takes a couple of small sips as she looks at Mr. Bridges over the cup.
-
"I like a little coffee with my cream and sugar darling." said Mother with a wink.
in a text to the group -He's no mage and there is nothing magical in here-
-
If Mr. Bridges isn't buying it, there is absolutely nothing to indicate that. He spends the next several minutes with Tanya and Mother going over services, which seem fairly standard for the sort of work he is pitching. After nearly an hour, everything that can be discussed on the topic has been.
"So, Ms. Marisart," he says, concluding their business, "please feel free to contact us if you have further questions. I would estimate that we will be ready to staff you needs in a week's time."
-
Tanya smiles and stands, smoothing her skirt as she does. She holds out a hand to Mr. Bridges and says, "Thank you for your time, Mr. Bridges. It was very kind of you to see me without an appointment. And thank you, too, for the tea and coffee. You have my number; please contact me when you think we need to meet again for the final details. You have been very gracious." She looks at the man for a bit then adds. "If you have been here only a short while, would you be interested in some of the nightlife that this city has to offer? I have been here only three years myself, but I do have some contacts. There is a rich cultural growth that I have found rivals that of London or Paris. I would be happy to introduce you around if you do not know anyone."
Tanya takes Mother's arm again as they walk out of the office. She nods to the receptionist, "Thank you, miss. I am sure that we will be back again. Ta."
The pair walk to where Alphonse is waiting at the Rolls. He glides to the door and hold it open for them to enter then goes back to the driver's seat. Tanya tells him to take them back to the hotel and sits back in the luxurious seat. When the limousine is a couple of blocks away and she is reasonably sure that they cannot be overheard from any security device at the building, she has the car stop and sends a message out. >>Team. Tanya. First off, and completely not part of the mission, I would so not kick that man out of my bed if he somehow managed to find himself there. However, now back to reality. That man is Steelbit and he certainly is one cool character. I gathered that Mother determined that the fake receptionist is awakened and that Steelbit is not. Were we there long enough for Kumiho or Kachina to detect anything else? Where do we want to meet to discuss what we do next?"
-
Kumiho thinks for a bit while packing up his gear at the cafe.
I think that it would not be unlikely for Steelbit to be posing as Jason Bridges. It wouldn't be unusual for that name to be one that several people could use to hide behind.
Thinks a bit more before continuing, Why don't you and mother go shopping and keep an eye out for followers. Once you are sure that no one is following we can meet at some location after. A private room somewhere maybe. At this stage I wouldn't want to meet back at your home since it might be under watch.
-
Tanya laughs, >>That will be easy. I was born to shop. Fancy a twirl at that boutique in the mall, Mother? Lots of windows and mirrors to use to see if people are watching us.<<
-
"I do love retail therapy sugar." said Mother.
Texting the group.- I would kidnap pretty boy tonight and then hit up the shop after-
-
I think kidnapping Steelbit would not be in our best interests right now. From what we have been told he is a well known hitter. A challenge to say the least.
-
Mother texts -Well team if our decker is scared we shouldn't do it, or maybe us girls can handle it ourselves- with a winky emoticon.
-
:P I just think that our cause would be better suited to find information within the building than through an experienced runner - at this time.
-
[Monday, 207505131432L]
Mother and Tanya make their way to the mall, browsing while the others keep an eye out for any sign that there is a tail or other interest in the two. Kachina is pleased to note that there is no increased spirit activity while Kumiho keeps watch over the commlinks the two carry, looking for any matrix activity. Requiem takes the physical watch.
Half an hour passes with no sign of anything untoward...
-
Mother texts the group -Ok we don't appear to have a tail. Where do we meet? Should we hit the place tonight?-
-
I'll set up private meeting room at Penumbra Club. Say we meet there in 2 hours. Reservations under the name "Green".
-
Tanya nods at a posh frock she has been looking at. >>Penumbra. Two hours. Green. Got it.<<She holds the frock up to her and slowly turns around. >>Now the tough question. I know all of you have been watching, so do you think this color and style look good on me?<<
She laughs and turns to Mother, "So do you need a lift anywhere before we meet again or are you OK hanging out with me? I am having Monique bring me a change of clothes, something a bit more appropriate for clubbing at Penumbra. Or elsewhere." Tanya opens her connection to Monique. >>Monique. I am done and you should almost be here by now. I will change into the LBD and keep the other case for later. Still not sure what is going down tonight. I will keep you updated. See you in a few. Ta<<
-
"Are saying I shouldn't wear my suit honey? It's the latest fashion." Said mother.
-
Tanya looks appraisingly at Mother's ensemble. She smiles and says, "That is not what I am saying at all. I chose this frock especially for the meeting today and while I could wear it to the Penumbra, I simply choose not to. What you are wearing is indeed the latest fashion and is appropriate almost anywhere for any function. What is more, you look smashing in it. It is simply a matter of choice."
Tanya waits at the mall for Monique, who is indeed just minutes away, having arranged earlier to be in the vicinity by this time. The French girl meets the pair, carrying a hanging clothes bag and a satchel. She nods at Mother, "I adore that color on you, Miss. And the cut suits you well." She and Tanya disappear into the nearest ladies restroom, where she helps her mistress out of her dress and into the little black dress she has brought. The frock is stylish; the hem is just above the knee, the waist is narrow, and the bodice demurely conceals while at the same time emphasizes her chest. They bring the finishing touches out of the satchel; make up, a strand of pearls for the neck, and pearl earrings. The last accessory is a pair of glasses. Tanya glances at her reflection but relies on the opinion of her maid. "Tres magnifique. Tres chic. You look very nice, but you already know that. by the way, you had a call from an Ely Warren. He said that he met you last night at the recital and would like to chat with you over dinner some time. I told him that I would consult with you and that you would likely get back with him."
Tanya recalls the slightly overweight man with the loud wife with the rather nice jewelry. She smiles, "Thank you, cherie. His wife has some very interesting jewelry. It might be worth it to get to know this man a bit more. I will return his call, but probably tomorrow."
Tanya and Monique return to where Mother is waiting, where Tanya says goodbye to the maid and turns to her new companion. "Well, shall we be off? We do have some time, though, if you want to look about some more."
-
"I don't think we have the same budget sugar. Let's roll." said Mother.
-
Tanya and Mother return to the car and Alphonse drives them to the Penumbra, which is moderately crowded at this time of day. She has been to the club numerous times for a change of pace from the Inferno. The Penumbra's slower paced, somewhat retro atmosphere was a good setting for meeting with some of the people she knows, who actually prefer it over the never-stop atmosphere of the newer clubs in the city. The two women get attention from others; one pair of young men actually stopping as they leave the club to try to strike up a chat-with-benefits sort of conversation with them. Tanya pulls Mother to the side just before they reach the door. "Now, ducks, there are bound to be people here that I know. I want to introduce you round so what name should I give them?"
-
[Monday, 207505131705L]
Club Penumbra. Is there a hotter spot in Seattle this evening? Not once these ladies arrive. Private booth in the back for the Green party, complete with White Noise generator and booth jammer.
-
As Tanya moves with Mother through the crowd at the club, she recognizes some of the people present. Lady Tanya Marisart is fairly well known on both the club and social circuits. She has cultivated a persona that is at home in these places because it gives her access to people that have things that she can steal. She stops several times for cheek bussing and to introduce her companion. Tanya's smile for each of them is genuine and promising as she effortlessly moves through the crowd to the booth indicated by the ARO provided by the hostess. When they arrive she sits and moves over so that Mother has the better view of the club. Tanya points out the hidden drink and service console that allows them to order without leaving the booth. "We are a bit early and I did see several of the people looking at you and wondering who you really are. By protocol, we will not be bothered her in this booth, but feel free to go out and mingle if you want." She points off in a direction. "And to cover the really important stuff, the loo is just over there."
-
Kumiho sits in the reserved room in the back of Penumbra. While he waits for his team and makes a simple AR 3D map of the Return Safe LTD building with labels mark what security features they know of from observations and the map he found online. He has also added silhouettes of the nearby buildings for reference. He know there is a lot to this they still don't know, but this might be the best they will be able to do. Once done, he will set the image on standby on his commlink until everyone gathers and then activate the ARO after everyone has settled so that it floats in AR above the center of the table.
ARO Creation (http://orokos.com/roll/317402): 7d6t5 4
Welcome. How was shopping; I guess you were not followed? Kumiho greets the others as they appear. By this time he has already ordered and drinks a Vietnamese Coffee and rum smoothie with his burger and fries. He is dressed in street trendy casual wear as usual.
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Tanya nods at Kumiho. "Nice choice of a place to meet. You look nice in that."
-
Kumiho nods, Lyle would meet me here at times. He was a traditionalist - the Penumbra was a second home to many runners he would say. It should always be that way. I felt it was an appropriate choice.
-
Mother ordered a drink with fruit juice and an umbrella with skewered fruit on it.
"So what's the plan? I can give us spirit concealment and maybe a couple invisibility but it won't work on the spirits we'll have to try to avoid them. Then I guess tanya and Kumiho open the doors and then what?" said Mother
-
Tanya nods. "We can get in. From what was said earlier, it might be possible for our awakened to alert us when the spirits are watching. Yes?"
-
Kumiho punches up the layout he made earlier into AR life. Using a AR stylus, he rotates the building - highlighting the entry points that they observed the previous day.
All I need is to be within some link into the building's security pan. From there I can worm my way in; though it would be easier from the security room itself. I added the cameras we say from when you entered the building and socialized with Steelbit, but there is still much about the building that we don't know. For instance, we don't know how much the interior of the building has changed from the layout of the building on record.
Looking to the groups awakened members i don't know much about spirits or magic, but I imagine that they operate much like real guards and move about in a pattern of sorts. So if we can see the pattern then we can known when they might appear at any given point, correct?
Looking to Tanya, Since you have experience with silent entries - which entry point do you feel is best?
-
Mother nods.
"Spirits are somewhat like human guards but less predictable honey. We can watch out for them and if there is cover try to keep it between us and them." said Mother sipping her drink.
-
Tanya looks carefully at the hologram, her earlier carefree attitude replaced by one of studious professionalism. She has Kumiho turn it in several directions, stopping it to look at one place before moving on to the next. She even has the building rotated so that she can see the rooftop. She asks for the scale of the hologram. When done she looks up. "Very well done, Kumiho. You really are an artist. Thank you." In turn she points to three places on the hologram, letting the others see them as she talks. "If I were going in solo I would prefer to use this small hatch on the roof. But it sounds like Kumiho might be coming along for the fun, and that might present a difficulty. The chute from the hatch is quite small for a number of feet. Do you have any acrobatics or gymnastics skills that can assist you in moving through a narrow opening? If not, I think that leaves us with two main avenues of approach; this ventilation access point here and this window, here. I intuitively dislike windows because they are so obvious an approach that they are unusually well guarded by sensors. The vent is also obvious, but harder to manage from a thief's standpoint, so is sometimes not guarded as well. It also has the narrow size disadvantage, but it appears to be a bit wider than the roof hatch. Given who we saw at the building, I think it safe to assume that the sensors will be bloody top notch, no matter which entry point we choose. I have some devices that can help us defeat some sensors and Kumiho can assist with the others. Comments or questions?"
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Mother raises her hand.
"How are we getting on the roof? I could levitate us up there honey but we might as well hoot off fireworks honey the way we'll shine on the astral honey." said Mother.
-
I had assumed that more than one of us were going in. I'm sure whatever data we are looking for will be on a secured offline system - so i'll have to go in as well. But I don't have any training in gymnastics or the like. But sensors on a door or window can be bypassed.
Listening to mother Kumiho nods, yes, I believe we might want to stick to mundane approaches to the getting in, so as to not get noticed by spirits watching on the outside.
-
"Then the window might be best. So just who is coming along inside?"
-
"Whilst I'm not averse to coming inside, and have some training to assist Tanya, I might be better as a reserve force in case the shit hits the fan. If necessary I can present a certain amount of shock and awe but that has its own drawbacks given the location"
-
Kachina wasn't dressed in the most fancy clothes or evening suits. She was only adorning her typical long coat that passably hid her machine gun when on a run. Her NAN Jewelry, face painting and skin color made her heritage very obvious. But more than clothes, it was all about body language. Kachina entered with a confident stance, a clear vibe of 'do-not-mess-with-me' followed her with every step she was taking. If her beauty would have attract many men to approach her, only the bravest or foolest would have attempted it tonight.
She made her way to the booth; greeted the rest of the team and congratulate Tanya and Mother on their Job inside the building. Kumiho deserved a good pat in the back too with his well detailed ARO.
The conversation continued a plan was taking form. She could feel the tension and excitement of a run about to happen.
I have an idea... can't guarantee it to work, but it worth chancing it:
We don't need to all break in. Just like you mention, Requiem, you and I can stay out as back up. What I want to do is try to distract the Watchers long enough to get you in. What if an Astral battle between myself and a Spirit happens at very close proximity to the building? Close enough to catch their attention but not enough to make it an alert. Those entities are by nature very curious. Let's give them an astral spectacle. Requiem, you look after my body while Tanya, Mother and Kumiho gets in.
-
Tanya nods. "Distractions are always a valuable tool....for as long as they last. You might not be able to keep that up for the entire time we might have to be inside. My guess is that this will be a slow process just to bypass the security systems we are likely to find inside. But is could help us get inside. I would recommend that you do not do it right across the street as that may seem suspicious.
-
Kumiho listens for a bit and then thinks about what else needs to be said,
Steelbit might leave and head to the casino again tonight around the same time as before - which is around 11 pm i believe. I feel that we should wait until after he has left the building to do this - but I rather we did not wait to late. It is completely possible that he will not go to the casino tonight or at east not as late has he did the previous night. If we need to go in and there has been no conformation that Steelbit has left the building, then Requiem - being the more combat inclined of us - should also enter the building.
-
Mother nods.
"I also think we should use nonlethal methods." said Mother.
-
Yes, agreed Kachina. The distraction can't be too close, but needs to be close enough that the Watcher will notice it and pay attention to it, at least long enough to give you the edge.
And of course, I wasn't counting on entering before Steelbit. Mother, you mentioned the secretary was awaken, do you think she could be the one controlling the Watchers?
I didn't see her coming out of the building yet either.
-
Tanya nods. "I am a fan of non-lethal. I am pretty good with a dart gun and some Narcojet. I have not killed anyone yet and really have no desire to start now."
-
Kachina stayed speechless a brief instant. She didn't know what to think of this: Never killed anyone!?
She realized how different the two women were. And all that popped in her mind now was the people she killed. Sometimes it was out of duty. Sometimes she remembered actually enjoying it. And that was without counting the numerous disrupted and banished spirits on her hands.
Were the beautiful red hair speak about using dartgun, Kachina was sporting a deadly Submachine gun on her side... she was kind of feeling bad now..
She looked at Requiem, She knew he had killed before. She wondered if he even cared about Tanya's clean hands.
-
"I never killed anyone who didn't have it coming sugar. Now the secretary could be the one controlling the watchers or it could be a subcontracter or who's behind door number three. Either way we best avoid them. What is our plan once we are inside? are we going directly for the warcded area?" said Mother.
-
Tanya thinks on that. "That is probably going to be up to Kumiho. We will get him to where he needs to be to download the information we are seeking. My guess is that we might just have to go down, but he might find an access portal upstairs."
-
There is a well placed camera on the street that I can use to watch the building for when Steelbit leaves. That will give us some overwatch before and during the op. Once we have a plan I will also check through the cameras in the area to make sure that we are not watched. Any that would be pointed in the right direction will be handled.
-
Tanya smiles at Kumiho and nods. "Very nice." Looking around at the others she says, "From what I am hearing, it will be me, Mother, and Kumiho going into the building, with Requiem providing physical support and Kachina astral overwatch. Am I correct so far? We try to wait for Steelbit to leave before going in, so will need to be hidden somewhere nearby, and Kumiho will be directing any street or building cams away from us. Kachina and Mother will be providing information on where the astral watchers are so that we can maneuver as cleanly as possible to the data storage site. We do not yet know if that will be down in the hidden area or not, but I would certainly expect it to be. Once we have the paydata we extract ourselves. Miss anything?"
-
Seems pretty correct. Said Kachina. Let's be clear on our option to get the hell out. There's room for one more in my Jackrabbit. I ain't much of a driver though, relying mostly on the computer. i.e not ideal if pursued. THere are also the two vehicle in the garage. Kumiho shouldn't have too much trouble starting them. Requiem, you have your bike, right?
-
Tanya tosses in, "Monique is meeting me with my gear and will take the Rolls back to the hotel, leaving me with my bike. In a pinch I could take an extra person."
-
Requiem mused at Tanya's revelation that she had never taken a life...in the shadows that was a rare thing and to be treasured...he just hoped that should it ever arrive that she needed to then it wouldn't affect her as badly as it had done Silk. He had taken life, perhaps less than some might assume, and it would never be an easy thing to do and he was grateful that he hadn't succumbed to the disassociation syndrome typical of his cybernetic peers...
"Yes, I have my bike, but that will preclude bringing some of the heavier equipment to bear. That is probably a good thing given the location of the op but I am cautious about relying on such exposed transport. Perhaps we can persuade our employer to furnish us with a set of unmarked wheels? Or perhaps our respective contacts could come up with something? I agree with pursuing a non-lethal approach if we are able to but if Steelbit is a measure of the opposition we may not have a choice and I would suggest that we come equipped to deal with as many eventualities as we can..."
-
"We can take my americar but I must confess sugar that I am not a good driver. So if someone else would like to drive that is an option. Hopefully it won't come to that." said Mother.
-
I have my Suzuki Mirage. Do we all have our own modes of transportation? If so, we could all split the scene in separate vehicles, heading in separate directions.
-
"The one problem with that is if one of us get's caught alone honey, they won't have back up...and they might wag their tongue about who they were working with." said Mother.
-
This is true.I can drive in the get away if need be or we can contact someone's trusted contact who can drive. Though, if the building were to blow up - i think they would be a little too distracted to pursue. Kumiho smiles mockingly at this last suggestion.
-
Kachina considered Requiem's idea to just have one getaway vehicle and hire a "driver". She would definitely prefer just one vehicle if she had the choice. I don't think we should involve any more people in this. But if mange to get us a vehicle that's fit 5 or 6, that's be splendid. It's late already though, may not be easy.
Mother, you Ford can have 4 people in it right? Requiem, how do you feel assisting the getaway on your bike, while the four of us get as far as possible in the Ford?
-
Tanya thinks then says, "I can live with that. I can send the car back to the hotel and have Monique meet me here with my things and send her back with the bike. Will that work?"
-
Well, leaving your bike not too far wouldn't hurt. My Jackrabbit will be close by. You know how plans go. I'd rather have a quick getaway and come back later to get the car, but if our plan go south, we have more options.
-
"That sounds like a plan sugar but how does that saying go? All plans change upon egagin with the enemy? So let's get this party started." said Mother.
-
Tanya watches the others for any signs of uncertainty. Seeing none, she calmly states, "I think that 2200 is a good time to be near the sight. Kumiho can let us know when the coast is as clear as possible from prying eyes and cams. I will be togged up and ready for the ball and will do my best to not land us in the soup. I need to walk a bit and get my mind in sneak mode so please excuse me. All of you have my comm code in case something changes. Ciao." At that the British thief stands up and leaves the table unless someone says something.
She walks out to the street and goes to the car, climbing in the door held by Alphonse. She gives the driver an address and sits back to enjoy the ride. She sends a confirmation to Monique to meet her with all the gear. The heavy limo arrives at the location first and Tanya toggles the intercom switch. "Alphonse, you have been a true dear today. I will be adding a nice bonus to your packet for this. Thank you so much."
Monique arrives shortly afterwards and the two unload the gear from the bike cargo bins. Tanya uses the cover of the Rolls to change out of the frock into her camouflage suit then carefully stores all of her added equipment on the special hooks and loops she has had installed on the suit. After making sure that she has everything it its place she hugs Monique. "Thank you, dear. Time to see what these people are hiding." Again toggling the intercom, she says, "You will see that Monique gets home, won't you?" When Alphonse replies in the affirmative, Tanya climbs out of the car and watches it drive off. Climbing onto the Mirage, she fires it up and drives out to the area of the park. She finds a quiet residential street and drives about until she finds what she is looking for; a location with several other bikes along the road. She parks and secures her ride and walks to the park, carefully noting the street names as she goes, filing them into her near photographic memory. Once in the park she sits under a tree and waits, mentally going over what she has and where it is. Everything has a place and she is used to that, but she has found that thinking about it helps get her ready.
-
[Monday, 207505132158L]
Everyone takes their places for the evening's soiree. As anxious as everyone is, the next hour passes by abysmally slow, but pass it does, and just prior to eleven, your man leaves the building, gets into his vehicle, and drives away. Kachina and Mother are fairly certain they've mapped out the patrol patterns of the watcher spirits, and it seems all is ready.
-
"The way is clear Tanya. It's your turn sugar. Work your magic." said Mother gesturing ffor Tanya.
To the spirit within her she said "Elegua conceal us from prying eyes."
Making a small gesture Mother concentrated rendering herself invisible.
-
Pausing for a moment, Tanya slides her mask and goggles on over her face and waits for the all clear from Kumiho that he has control of the cameras before moving over to the building. Everything she sees and hears is sent out over the image and sound links to the rest of her team. The selected point of entry is the building's rear door. Being careful, she pulls her bug scanner out and activates it then looks to the hacker for confirmation. Bending over, Tanya inspects the lock.
-
Tanya snorts to herself and mutters subvocally to the others. "Biometric Maglock. Looks pretty good, too. Probably have to bypass this one, so it will take a couple of minutes." She reaches for her tools and gets to work.
Roll for extended test Locksmith + Agility Remove case and bypass lock (http://orokos.com/roll/322279): 10d6t5 3 use an edge for second chance Edge for Second Chance (http://orokos.com/roll/322280): 7d6t5 1 Second round second combat round for bypassing lock (http://orokos.com/roll/322281): 9d6t5 3 Third round Third round for bypass lock (http://orokos.com/roll/322282): 8d6t5 2 Fourth round Fourth round to bypass lock (http://orokos.com/roll/322283): 7d6t5 2 Fifth round Fifth round to bypass lock (http://orokos.com/roll/322284): 6d6t5 2 That is 13 hits in five combat rounds (15 seconds). That should bypass the lock if it is rating 6.
-
Kachina and Requiem were keeping guard, not too far from the building.
She astrally projected, confident Requiem would look after her meat body. From there it would be easier to handle the Watchers but first she had to get ready for the distraction should the need of it arise.
She focused on the thunderbird and the love and respect she had for it. He was usually the one sending her the powerful spirits that were so eager to assist. She summoned a spirit of Air who appeared in the Astral Plane by her side.
Summon Spirit of Air F5 (http://orokos.com/roll/322731): 17d6t5 4
Spirit of Air F5 Resistance (+1 for Spirit Whisperer) (http://orokos.com/roll/322732): 6d6t5 1
Summon Drain Resistance DV2 (http://orokos.com/roll/322733): 10d6t5 6
F6 Spirit of Air summoned with 3 services. No Drain
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Kumiho begins to access the local grid and search for the CCTV cameras that have the targeted building in sight.
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@ Tanya
Under the cover of darkness, Tanya makes her way to the back door and takes several seconds to examine the maglock before setting to work. A strong lock, but nothing she hasn't dealt with in the past. While she does so, she minds the camera above her, working as out of the way as she can. The angle makes it awkward, but again, it is something she is used to, as she has rarely made use of a decker for her work. In the cover of darkness, it is possible that someone monitoring the cameras might not see her, but a scrutinized playback will reveal her figure.
Perhaps once she gets inside, there will be a way to remove the images from the system.
As she dismantles the lock and takes the front plating off, she utters a mild curse. A blinking red light indicates an anti-tamper mechanism. She has no time to look it over,the thing is designed to sound an alarm if the lock is dismantled or otherwise by-passed.
@ Kachina
The Air Spirit appears in a graceful whirlwind of astral energy, it's form that of a large bird created of currents and static electricity.
@ Kumiho
It isn't difficult for Kumiho to find the Host of the security camera, and he quickly notes that it is a moderately well-crafted host. He prods the host looking for a hole in the firewall that he can squeeze through...
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Give me a few to find a mouse hole in this system and I'll have everything set. Kumiho says over the comm
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Requiem sat uncomfortably in the borrowed car, next to the sleeping form of Kachina. He was glad that it was unlikely he would have to do a combat exit from the car, the seat was set back as far as it allowed and it was still a squeeze in the heavy security armour. His helm was already snug in place - it would take too long to put it on if the shit hit the fan. The Guardians were strapped across his chest whilst the small Lightfire was tucked into the armslide on his right wrist. An assortment of grenades were in a high shoulder position in easy reach, the rest of his kit was small and stowed away out of sight... he was ready to rock and roll, but sincerely hoped that he would not be needed tonight...
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Tanya spies what she is looking for and smiles grimly. The box has a tamper setting that will alert the local KE if she sets it off. At this level the jackboots will probably be on site in less than a couple of minutes. As she goes for the wires she whispers to Kuhimo. "Hey. Tamper device here. Going for it now. If I miss it will send an alarm but I am not sure if it is silent or not. Can you monitor the frequencies and let us know if we need to leave?"
Without waiting for an answer, Tanya selects a wire and cuts it.
Defeat Anti-Tampering device (http://orokos.com/roll/322851): 10d6t5 2 Ouch. OK. Use last edge to reroll misses. Edge to roll misses (http://orokos.com/roll/322853): 8d6t5 4 Well, that was a good use of edge. 6 net hits.
She smile almost wolfishly. *Piece of cake.* She carefully replaces the cover of the maglock so that a casual look will not revel it has been tampered with and opens the door. She looks over to Kumiho. "All clear to enter?"
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Mother looks around for the return of the watcher spirits. Seeing the coast is clear she gives Tanya the thumbs up. Then she remembers she is invisible and no one can see that.
"The spirits will be back soon. How's that door coming sugar?" whispered Mother.
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We are golden on my end, I have a Agent sitting on the camera so that we can exit the building as unnoticed as when we entered. Now all we need to do is find the security station in the building and I can scrub that clean of our presence.
Kumiho moves to the point of entry, he is dressed in his runner attire. His Fox-face Ballistic Mask with its mischief makers smile, his Armor jacket with the nine tail motif along the back and AR Gloves. His Ares Crusader is holstered opposite of his commlink and deck. Once the way is opened he enters the building - ready to get this over with and find some answers.
sneak (http://orokos.com/roll/323180): 5d6t5 3
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Tanya moves with the crew through the building, noting the anomalies. "Does not look like any of the work stations are hooked up. So, decision time. Main office or downstairs. My vote is down."
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"The warded area is likely our target sugar." said Mother adjusting her ballistic mask.
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Tanya nods in agreement and goes to the door leading to the lower level. She takes her time and scours the door for the signs of a security system. Turning to Kumiho she asks, "What do you think. Any trix stuff here?"
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Mother quietly chanted to herself the mantra"Ogun give me fleetness of foot." and then follows Tanya.
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Kumiho frowns to himself. then over comm with his subvocals he says,
If there are any trix as you say,then they are hardwired into the building. We don't have the time or the equipment to get at them. Our best bet is to proceed to the hidden room and hope it leads to the security center. It all seems to be hard wired; there are not even AROs floating around in this place. Very Old School.
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Tanya bends over and sets to work on the lock.
LOL I posted this in the OOC instead of here. Sorry
The lock is bypassed in about 15 seconds.
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The door opens. Tanya did not notice an anti-tamper device on that lock and so she beckons the others to go down into the basement with her. Mother stops her, however, seeing the Ward that kept Kachina from being able to see into the basement below.
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Kumiho looks to mother, wondering if she sees something the others missed or cannot see. However, the fox mask does not help in communicate facial expressions
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Tanya freezes when Mother touches her, looking her way. She sends a subvocal question. "The barrier? Can you get us past it or shut it down?"
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Kachina kept surveying the astral plan with her beautiful winged spirit at her side.
She couldn't see what was happening on the camera nor hear the chatter but she had to be sure no one was coming back to the place nor a HTR team on its way...
She wished she could do more but to wait for her team to complete the task, but that was how teamwork was suppose to be. Sometimes the least fancy job was the most important.
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"Ogun give me strength" said Mother preparing to step through the doorway.
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Mother steps through the Ward to the other side. As she does so, she can feel the tugging and a surge of energy. Quickly realizing that the Ward was about to overcome her even as she was only halfway through, she dropped on of the spells she was sustaining, and immediately felt the pressure ease. It wasn't enough and she cursed as she dropped the second spell, hoping that was all she needed.
It worked, and she passed through to the other side along with the Guardian Spirit that was channeled through her.
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Mother Shakes slightly.
"That there was close sugar."
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Tanya nods to Kumiho as she follows Mother through the ward. She puts a hand on her companion's arm. "Are you good to keep going?" Tanya takes a cautious step past Mother then looks to her other companion. "Are we clear, Kumiho?"
If she gets the go sign, Tanya continues down the stairs, looking for anything out of the ordinary. The progress is , but sure. In this type of work, speed can be a killer.
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If mother is good, then we continue., Kumiho replies. Once that is settled he continues with the others to proceed down the passage - hoping that they find something that will shed light on Lyle's death.
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Tanya nods and continues to move forward.
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Moving downstairs, the group finds what can only be described as an 'indoor shooting range'. Large windows on the left reveal a sort of... control room? A place where someone can observe the action in the main area. At the far end, a small access door leads to whatever area is behind the targets.
In the observation/control room are several workstations and along the wall nearest the stairwell are several lockers.
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Tanya enters the observation room and nods to the work stations as she goes to the lockers. "Kumiho, those workstations might be hooked up. Can you check them out while I see if there is anything interesting in the lockers? Mother, anything to be concerned about yet?" Tanya is looking to see if there are any access cards or keys that she can copy or otherwise make use of. Even names or photos might be helpful.
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Mother chants to herself "Eleggua conceal me from harm...Ogun give me fleetness of foot...No. Not fast enough. Ogun make me fly like the wind...No. Not fast enough. Ogun make me faster than a motherfuckin jet...no...nevermind as slow as a vole it is. I am humbled by your mercies...." said Mother shaking her head. She looked around the basement.
Opening her eyes to the astral
http://orokos.com/roll/324924...you got to be kidding me. I really could have used this roll earlier.
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Checking the lockers, they don't appear to be for individuals, but rather types of equipment. There are slats in them and it's easy to see that they contain a variety of armaments and other gear for... 'ops'.
Kumiho moves to the 'control room' and sees that the workstations are powered on and working and that they have no matrix connectivity, at least here. They all have data lines that come together in a single, larger cable and eventually disappears into a wall. This would explain why no one was able to remotely access the devices. Though curious as to why such a company would go to such great lengths to keep their systems this secure.
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Tanya gives a soft whistle as she looks through the meshed doors of the lockers. Kneeling in front of each, she determines that they are locked with some pretty complicated biometric locks. She takes a number of pics of the lockers, the locks, and as much of their contents as she can see before shaking her head and standing up, and sends a sub-vocal to the team. "These guys are not fooling around with the hardware. I am not the real expert on weapons so I have taken some pics for Requiem. The lockers have some pretty sophisticated locks and I see no reason right now to temp fate by trying to get in them. I can get into the lockers if I had to, but it would be brute force and they would certainly know we were here. By the looks of things, it appears like they could easily outfit a reinforced RST, if not two. Any luck at your end, Kumiho? Mother, we still good?"
While waiting for Kumiho to do his magic, Tanya closely inspects the locks to see if she can determine the type of biometrics involved. Fingerprints, voice recognition, and retinal scans are common but she is aware that some high-tech security outfits are always coming up with new ways to keep people like her from accessing what they should not. Locks have always interested her and these people seem very interested in their security. She takes many close-up pics of the locks to take home and examine. These seem to be at the very top of the state-of-the-art list. "Frag. I have never seen locks this complex. These people do not want anyone to mess with their weapons. I need some time to look at my pics and work out what I can before I can try to get past these undetected. Locks this good probably have sever anti-tampering stuff as well. Frag." Suspecting that the weapons and other equipment in the lockers are at least top military grade, she angles the mini camera to try to get good pics of the equipment for Requiem to look through.
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Mother looks around
"Mages have been casting spells here sguar. Many of them. I would say they're trainin too."
Mother looks down at the desk.
"Ooh. Lookee here. Now isn't that pretty." said Mother admiring an object on the desk.
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Tanya sends off the pictures to Requiem, but leaves them on her camera in case they do not get through to him from down here. She looks over at the object Mother is looking at. "Careful, Mother. Anything down here might be rigged to allow these people to track whoever takes it. It is what I would do and these guys seem very paranoid and careful. Probably goes with the turf if they are a skilled HRT outfit."
Looking over at Kumiho, she adds, "Don't forget to erase any images of us from the internal cameras, just in case. Any luck with the pay data?"
"So at least we seem to feel that these people are outfitted as a HRT; sling mojo crazy good; and have extremely top=notch security systems. Now all we need to do is find out what they are up to."
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Kumiho, after inspecting the workstations, begins to inspect the Cable that runs from the workstations to the wall. he seems to be concentrating on the task at hand and is unaware of what the others are doing.
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Requiem analysed the images with professional detachment
<<We do not want to be here when they open that lot! It still doesn't give us much Intel on their connection to our mutual friend >>
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Mother stops reaching for an office plack.
"Yes. Better not to touch it honey. It's the ward link. There's no other magic here now. I think it's the your turn." Said Mother turning to look at Kumiho.
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Tanya recognizes the detachment of a professional at work and stays silent, letting Kumiho work his own style of trix mojo.
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@ Kumiho
Looking over the equipment, it looks like the most vulnerable spot would be through the wiring.
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Kumiho begins to quietly mutter to himself as he looks over the long banded together line of cables; trying to discern which cord is the Ethernet cable. He doesn't want to tap into the wrong line and fry his deck.
Who the hell would go out of there way to hard wire everything and then leave the whole thing exposed like this on the floor. Well, this better work or he might flip his shit and trow one of those really nice cushy chairs they have at these workstations.
Kumiho shakes his head. No that is not very professional - everyone would think him some kind of fool if he just got, screamed, and then throw a chair across the room......
Now is it this grey cord, the red one, or the green one...... Kumiho pulls out of his coat pocket a handy little tool kit and removes the small data tap. He thinks to himself, Lye always liked green, right - as he bends forward to make the needed connection.
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The Data Tap connects and after a moment, Kumiho releases a breath he did not realize he was holding.
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Kumiho situates himself on the floor, leaning against one of the workstations, trying to keep himself out of sight of the of the main entrance so he doesn't present himself an easy target while having his outer body experience.
Ok, Everyone. I have a connection. I'll be going in Cold Sim - watch my back while I'm gone. Pighting! And with a mental click he leaves his meat suit behind for the techno-colored skies of the systems Host. His form appearing out side the host as a medium height humanoid creature with the head of a fox with 8 floating tails in a long white Asian styled scholars coat accessed in glowing blue, purple, and green stitching. In his hand his wields a large/tall Bamboo Brush wet with Ink.
Ok, Lets see what Secrets you guard, he says to the Host before as he paints along its surface a door that will allow him entry.
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Kumiho Steps through the host into a active city street under a dark sky. Around him are various programs and know bots traveling, carrying out whatever function they serve. He also picks out a few icons in the crowd that appear to be Knight Errant like officers walking their beat - the host's security functions on the look out for illegal activity. Wanting to appear as aprt of the host as much as possible, with a few brush strokes from his large ink brush Kumiho changes his appears to match appearance of any of the other city dwellers.
I'm in, looking for the data store now
Kumiho prowls the cityscape searching for where Return Safe stores all their information. This takes him what feeling like in the host 15 minutes to find a Cities general Municipal building. Here he finds rows upon row of filing cabinets full of folders and papers. Here he Creates, with a sweep of his large ink brush, a little inky librarian and tells the short fellow to set the organization of the files before him by date and time. The little librarian walks over to a unassuming level placed in the wall, rubs his inky hands together, and then pulls the level. The cabinets before Kumiho rise up like a large wave - many of the cabinets changing place in mid air before slamming back to the ground - as if nothing had happened. Kumiho thanks the little librarian and then begins to insect the files. The first section seems to be mostly life feed of the security camera feeds - which continue to update as he looks them over. But as he works his way through the files, he begins to find other data. He spends some time looking over all of this, but the most important data he finds is an Appointment book with Names and dates. which he pulls out a Note pad and copies down. The other important bit of data is Tanya's meeting with Steelbit. Kumiho is not surprised that they already have a nice dos up on Tanya - which includes her home address and number. He spends a few moments to make changes to this. He changes Tanya Marisart to Maria A Saintly and her address to Seattle Hilton, Penthouse 4768B. He also put in a new commlink number.
Tiring of shifting through basic data, Kumiho turns back to his little inky Librarian friends and asks him for any and all for Lyle Green. it took what felt like an hour in the host but was more like 15 minutes for the little librarian to lead Kumiho to the files that had any info about Lyle. Every so often they would have to duck and hide from passing IC that were searching the archives for any unauthorized intrusions.After all that time though, all that was to be found was in the trash. A single Appointment that was listed as having been for a few days before Lyle's death. It contained only the date, time and a single note: Result - Declined. He frowned over this. Its not what he or the others were hoping for. Kumiho turned to his little helper and asked for any security footage from that data and time. Once this was brought o him by the little librarian, he saved it over for latter viewing. The file however, was so large that he needed to take out his Ink brush and create a long scroll to record it all since the file was too large to store completely on his deck alone.
Now that was done He needed to find the paydata. What were Return Safe LLC really up to? What was their goal? Kumiho wishes he could say that this did not take a while to find.
Ok, so this is going to take a while. May 6ish hours.
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Tanya factors in how long they have been here already and sends a note. >>Team. When did the man return last time? Do we have the time that we need for this?<<
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"Do we need to stay here?" Can we carry our friend out and continue the hack from somehwhere more comfortable darling?"
Said Mother.
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"From what little I know, he is jacked in and secured to the cable. Moving him will mean unhooking him and probably losing the connection. I would not try it unless it becomes necessary."
Tanya leaves Kumiho to do his thing, but looks around the control room to see if she can find anything unusual enough to stand out.
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"Well then I guess we wait. Mother looks around thinking about setting up defensive positions. Have any good stories of working the shadows Tanya sugar?" Said Mother looking for furniture to put in the hall.
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Tanya shakes her head. "There may be ears about and I do not need any publicity. Besides, I try to not kiss and tell as it can be bad for business. There are things I can tell you once we finish here and if you want to spend time over some good Earl Grey and biscuits. Or coffee."
Tanya walks around the room, looking for air vents or access panels. She wants to be prepared for an emergency exit if the need arises.
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Kumiho finds himself in front of an executive complex, where his browse program, the little inky Librarian, has led him. The trail lead him on a tour through the host and with some luck and skill he was able to remain undetected by the host's internal security measures. Inside he makes his way to a large executive office near the top of the building. The office itself is done all in warm tone of deep red oak with lush honey colored carpeting and dim lighting around the outer edges - a single light shining down upon the main desk. Kumiho little Librarian leads him past the desk to the main wall where a priceless piece of Futurism Art by Ivo Pannaggi - the little icon plaque called the piece "Speeding Train". Behind which, like every Trid-movie ever, there was a safe.
Kumiho scrutinized the wall safe for any minute detail, checking for any traps left for the unwary. After a few minutes of looking he found on the underside of the safe a trip switch that activated when the safe was opened or moved. Using his Large Scholar's Ink brush, Kumiho wiped the little librarian away and drew/conjured up little fox wearing a little tool vest with 완화 on its back. With his the foxes help, Kumiho was just barely able to safely remove the trap from the safe. Once this was done, Kumiho soaked up the little fox with his ink brush and then turned back to the safe. He then made an exact copy of the safe with a few easy strokes of his brush. While the ink was still wet on his duplicated safe, Kumiho pulled out a scroll and sucked the ink safe onto it. He would look over the paydata later. With their goal met, Kumiho headed back to the Municipal building to remove their presence from the security feed.
Nothing had changed since the last he was at the virtual Municipal building. Kumiho easily found his way back to where the nights camera feeds were recorded. With his ink brush he slowly painted out the team from each frame of the security feed. When he got to the most recent footage, Kumiho went in search of the Slave that managed the security cameras. What he found was a room full of cubicles, each with a little business man with a camera for a face, had at work typing away at their workstations. At the head of the room was the slave. Another Business man who had wire instead of legs which snaked out beneath him and out towards the cubicles. Kumiho noted that each of the businessmen wore a little button on their lapel that marked them as loyal to return Safe. He needed to trick the slave into following his orders and as such, using his brush again, he painted into existence a little button much like theirs. when he approached the slave, the businessman looked him over and excepted him as belonging. Looking over the Slave a bit Kumiho convinced the businessman that he was in charge and then handed the slave an executive order which instructed the slave to reformat. The Slave paused in it monitoring of this team for a moment and read over the executive order, scrutinizing it for any fault. Time seemed to slow down as Kumiho waited for the Slaves response. The slave stopped reading the order and then walked over to the side where it shredded the executive order. This brought on an alarm and Kumiho could hear security personal moving towards his location. He did not have much time. As IC came into the the area Kumiho painted a cloak about himself that had the word 껍질 written on it. While doing this he handed the Slave another executive order to reformat. As the first security guard entered the room and began to fire at Kumiho with their virtual guns, the slave clapped it hand together. As bullets whizzed by, each camera businessman stood straight up behind their workstation, made a little sound, and then sat down with their camera face on the desk top - like they were going to sleep.
However, Kumiho was being attack. He was already hit by the first guard's attack and he little time left and one more task to complete before he could jackout. As a seconds guard, this one with a shot gun, entered the room Kumiho handed anther executive order to the slave - this one to Reboot after the reformat was finished. The slave excepted this without any of the previous fuss. However, the guards where firing at Kumiho. He was able to jump out of the way of the first shot, it going wide, but the second guard got him in the gut. His Deck was bricked!! With the filters down between his meat suit and the virtual world falling way Kumiho took the full affects of the virtual damage. In the physical world his body jerked and spasmed on the floor, a little blood coming out of his nose and mouth.
As Kumiho lost consciousness he was barely able to reach out to his team and send one last communication.
The cameras are down......................................................
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"Oh dear." said Mother grabbing Kumiho and throwing him over her shoulder.
"I do believe that is our cue dear." said Mother to Tanya.
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Kachina and her spirit roamed the astral space nearby the office. The watchers were acting as planned, every times she would peek in. On the outside, no astral form seemed to be coming any close to the spot. Which was good, no HRT on the way.
After a while, she grew worried of her team. She reverted back into her body. She opened her eye, Requiem still next to her.
She started panicking when he mentioned the 6h Kumiho said he needed.
That's no good... let's be extra vigilant on who's coming nearby. We may have to delay them long enough for the rest of the team to get out
More minutes passes, and they received Kumiho's last message. Kachina's heart started to pump faster. Team, what's going on? she said over the com.
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Mother said into her com "We got a man down sugar."
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Tanya leads the way back up the stairs and through the first door. She shuts the door and bends over the lock. >>Team. One coming out carrying another. Need back up. Down man appears injured. Keep informed of the location of the spirits. I am relocking the doors behind us.<<
She makes sure that the door locks behind them and goes to the outer door, pushing it open and closing it after the trio leaves the building. She helps Mother get Kuniho to the waiting car, giving the others directions to where her bike is parked.
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"Time for plan B honey." Said Mother putting an address into gridguide.
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Frag, when it goes wrong it really goes wrong! At least they didn't seem to have an HTR team breathing down their necks...yet... Requiem started the engine and coasted out of their parking spot, ready to follow the infiltration team at a discrete distance to see if they had picked up any sort of tail...
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Tanya looks over at Kumiho. "Mother, you got any first aid skill? If you do, put the car in auto and see if you can help Kumiho. He does not look good." She sends a message out. >>Team. Tanya. Kumiho is out and bleeding. Either of you know first aid and have a kit?<<
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<<I've got enough skill to get by but I've only got a couple of slap patches with me, not a full kit...anyone else got something more useful?>>
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Tanya asks Mother to put in a code for a street doc she has heard of named Hank. "Just get us there. I have money to pay for it."
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"Will someone be a dear and grab that medkit under the seat. I do beleive our friend here is not doing too good." said Mother.
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Tanya reaches under the seat as Mother brings the car to a stop so that Requiem, who is following us in a second vehicle, can join us and use it. "Let's hope this helps. But still be ready to go to the street doc."
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"If need be sugar. I wil cast healing on him after the first aid. I would have already but it is better to apply first aid then healing magic." said Mother looking over Requiem's shoulder with concern.
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Well fraggit, the medkit rather unhelpfully reported a lack of success in restoring vitals but at least Mother's spell seemed to have done better. Pulling the combat gloves back on, Requiem dropped back down into the driver's seat on his borrowed ride
"Ok, looks like he'll be out of it for a bit longer. I could give him a stim but it might frag him up later, better to see if he comes round by himself. He seems stable enough. So where to now? I guess any paydata is on his deck so we find somewhere to hole up and wait for sleeping beauty?"
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Tanya nods. "Someplace quiet and out of the way. I would offer my place, but it might be noticed if I were to bring in an unconscious person. So we either go to a motel, of which I know a couple, or we can go to one of someone else's hideouts."
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Too many eyes. Let's go to my shack. It will be tight but we'll be able to look after Kumiho. Said Kachina
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Tanya says, "Sounds like a plan. My bike is parked on a residential street near the park. Should I go get it or leave it until morning?"
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Mother let's the car coast on gridguide while she looks Kumiho over.
"Oshún let your sweet waters restore this child." said Mother holding her hands above Kumiho's still form.
"That is all I can do for now. He might need a few hours to recover. What is the address of this bolthole sugar?" said Mother bringing up the gridguide.
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Kachina offers the address and the group makes their way. Requiem suggests Tanya shoot the address to her bike and the vehicle pilots itself through the empty evening streets.
The group hunkers down for a bit, the minutes ticking by, as they wait for Kumiho to wake up.
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Kachina's place was really nothing to brag about, but it was what she called home, and that's all that really mattered for her.
Anyone entering with their AR on would notice the Shaman didn't bother much with any 'augmentation'. Everything inside was real or as close as it gets. The walls were bare but most were covered by tapestries of NAN heritage. A few dreamcatchers were hanging then and there, and pots and plants were put around mismatched furniture. The main living area was almost entirely taken by what a trained eye would recognize as a magical lodge, mainly a collection of nik naks from Ute origins.
There was no virtual scent as it was custom nowadays, but the place had a strong odor of plants, maybe synthetic sage or along the line, probably some used in the lodge itself.
A couch covered by a hand sewn blanket was pretty much the only place to 'chill' in there, along a couple low chairs. There was no entertainment units. Kachina probably only used her link and trodes for 'distraction'. Cupboards, sink and a dated food processor indicated where the kitchen was though the delimitation between it and the living space was unclear. Two doors filled one of the corner of the room. One led to the bathroom. The other to her bedroom which had the bare minimum. A full size bed, a full size mirror, and a small desk covered with different small containers of paint, ointments and powders. Thinking of it, no one in the team had yet to see Kachina without some sort of painting on her face on top of some subtle make up.
She invited to place Kumiho on her bed, so the others could rest in the main living area while Mother and herself alternately looked after the Decker.
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Mother carefully carried Kumiho to the bed and laid him on it.
"What a lovely home you have here honey. My place is always so crowded." Said Mother looking around.
Mother sat down. "What's our next step?" asked Mother.
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Cozy is probably more adequate. Still a world away from Tanya's gorgeous place.
Kachina look for some refreshments but she doesn't have much to offer. She instead prepare some soycaf.
We will need to wait for Kumiho to wake up before we can know what exactly he found in the host - if he found anything - before getting attacked. I'm very curious how all of this relate to our friend Green.
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Tanya sends the commands to the bike and gets it moving. She is concerned about Kumiho and replays the break-in over and over, trying to see if it was something she did that resulted in the decker's current situation. She barely recognizes when the car stops, but climbs out to help get Kumiho inside. Once they get him to the bed, Tanya wanders about the small place, peering at things but not touching. After all, this is not her home. She turns to the Indian woman, "You have done nicely here, Kachina. I can tell that you have made it your home. There are some nice touches with the decorations and the blanket is very nice. Did you do that?"
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Did I make the blanket? No... answered Kachina. It seemed the question brought the Indian woman back to some old times. She continued after a brief pause, trying to escape her own thoughts. My mother tried to teach me, when I was much younger. But I was too brash and impulsive, and the Shamen had better plan for me. I guess the only artistry skill I got out of that was putting bullets in people with this baby. She added with a chuckle as she pat the machine gun hanging low on her thigh. The blanket does come from my nation, though. I like it a lot, gives me comfort when I'm stuck inside.
She handed the team mismatched cups and mugs and brought the warm pot of soycaf. Sorry, that's all I can offer.
-
Tanya looks at the woman while she sips from the slightly chipped mug. "I hope that you do not take this wrong, Kachina." She waves a hand at the room. "I hope that you are not comparing your flat to mine and feeling that you come up shy. These are your things and this is your home. I can see that you have spent time on making it your place, your refuge from the world. One can tell a lot about people by observing their home. For instance, I believe that you like plants, and it looks like sage might be your favorite. You have a number of very pretty and probably delicate examples of what I have to assume is Native American art. It seems that there is some vague pattern in the placement of certain things and it is obvious that you take care in and have pride in your place. Your things are clean and cared for, the kitchen is neat, the place is dusted and tidy. I appreciate the effort you must put into your home and I thank you for sharing it."
"And speaking of mothers, mine was always volunteering at some social event or another. It was left to a long line of nurses and nannies in my early years, followed by tutors and eventually several boarding schools to raise me. I could wish that my mother had even once have wanted to try to teach me anything. She was exceptionally disappointed in me. I was younger than my brothers by several years; an accident and completely unwanted. Dear Daddy felt the same way, unfortunately. No, if any of this comes as a result of your mother loving you and wanting to share life with you, then I am jealous of you."
She sighs. But enough of Dame Tanya's pity party. We can at least review the information we do have while we wait for Kumiho to come round. For my part, I found the security of the place to be top-notch. These guys are not playing about. Military-grade maglocks, and the exterior door was equipped with a tamper-proof device. The equipment lockers downstairs were even better protected. SOTA or even bleeding edge. It was so good that I did not want to try it. it is too bad we do not know a good rigger. I would have loved to have left a micro drone in the place." She turns to Requiem. "I am no expert, but it seemed that the equipment they had in the lockers was pretty top-grade as well. And perhaps enough to arm at least one HRT, perhaps for several different mission types. What was your take? I am sorry of the pics were not too clear, but I tried to get as good as I good." She goes to Mother next. "What were your opinions of the mojo in the place?"
-
Mother thinks a moment.
"The wards were top notch and the receptionist is a very skilled mage. the place is definitely more than it appears." said Mother.
-
When Kumiho wakes up, Kachina rushes by his side in the bedroom.
She caringly caresses his forehead. There, there. you're gonna be alright.
Do you remember what happen? what did you find inside that host?
-
Outside Kachina's place Requiem struggled out of the armour suit, not the easiest thing to do in the cramped confines of the car, but better than some nosy idiot wondering why a robot was wondering into this quiet part of town. That left him in a skintight black body glove that left his severely scarred whipcord arms clear for all to see...hardly the most appropriate get up either but he had neglected to bring another change of clothes...
quote author=Mercy Merchant link=topic=20754.msg403858#msg403858 date=1443681159]
"I am no expert, but it seemed that the equipment they had in the lockers was pretty top-grade as well. And perhaps enough to arm at least one HRT, perhaps for several different mission types. What was your take? I am sorry of the pics were not too clear, but I tried to get as good as I good."
[/quote]
"Don't worry, I saw enough. I agree, it was high end sec or military, not unlike locker rooms I've frequented in the past. Let's hope our hacker, sorry, decker, has some information about why they hell St James thinks they are involved in Green's untimely departure!"
-
Kumiho Slowly wakes to find himself in someone's bead, tucked in under a quilt. His head is still pounding as he slowly sits up - trying his best to not make the pain worse. He tries to call for someone but his voice is a little dry. He gives himself a second and tries again
......Hello....?
-
When Kumiho wakes up, Kachina rushes by his side in the bedroom.
She caringly caresses his forehead. There, there. you're gonna be alright.
Do you remember what happen? what did you find inside that host?
-
Tanya hears the weak moans from the small bedroom and follows Kachina, stopping at the doorway to avoid crowding. Her face betrays her concern for the hacker, but she lets Kachina do the talking and just listens.
-
Mother hands Kumiho a glass a water.
"You gave us a scare little fox." said Mother.
-
Kumiho excepts the glass of water and takes a long drink, still trying not to move his head to much in the process.
The security was pretty tight in there, but for the most part I was able to avoid it right up to when I was removing our presence from the Surveillance system. I was successful in erasing the footage with us in it, but I was caught by the IC when I tried to get the Surveillance system to Reformat and Reboot - to give use enough time to leave the building. the system excepted the last command I gave it but my deck was bricked before I could jackout.
Kumiho takes another drink while clearing his thoughts.
I found some footage that needs to be gone through. It seems Lyle was at Return Safe for some kind of interview or appointment. He looks at Tanya, They had a dos on you, but I was able to edit it. But in the light of everything - you might think about moving anyway. Turning back to everyone else again, There was no record on the system for a hit to be put out on Lyle. The best I could come up with was a note for a single Appointment that was listed as having been for a few days before Lyle's death. It contained only the date, time and a single note: Result - Declined. Nothing else. However, if you check my Commlink, there is a file in there of all footage from around the same time as Lyle's appointment. Maybe that will give us more clues.
Taking another drink, Kumiho breaths deeply for a moment before continuing. Once I can Repair my deck I have more. There is a list of names, appointments that we can run down. See if they are linked in some way. I suspect that they are interviewing Shadowrunners and people who work in the shows like Lyle for some unknown reason. We'll know more once I have my deck repaired. I found a very secured file catch on an executive sub-host that I was able to copy. I'll need to pull it from my deck and decript it for us to learn more. But I hope that it will shade a lot more light on what Return Safe is really up to.
-
Tanya nods. "You did quite well, Kumiho. Not sure I would have changed their information on me, but that could work in our favor. I am too public a person to move. That is actually one of my strong points, I think. Not many would suspect the idle rich girl of the skills I have. No, I will stay where I am and perhaps they will come to see if I want a job. Or any of us, for that matter."
"Do you have what you need to fix your deck?"
-
Yes, It is at home. I wont bore you with the details, but it will take a little time.
-
Tanya smiles from the door. You took quite a hit. We were worried. It might be better if you stayed here the night or do feel well enough to go home? There is also my place. I have a couple of spare bedrooms there."
-
Currently I have a pretty nasty Headache, but if someone could drop me off at my place - once I get some rest I should be able to get back to work as quickly as possible. But thank you for the the assist tonight and for the offer.
-
Tanya nods at the decker before looking up at Kachina. "Perhaps we should all go home, or do you think we should sack out here? If the latter, I should at least contact Monique so that she does not worry."
-
"Once on a run I've found it good protocol to stick together as far as possible until it's done. We don't know what we might have stirred up and we don't want to give any opposition the chance to pick us off! Let's bring any deck repair stuff back here. I know it's inconvenient but I believe it is safer"
-
Tanya shrugs. "I can see the wisdom in that. I have never really operated as part of a team. I have hired specialists to help me on occasion but not really like this. I will bow to your experiance on this."
-
Mother gets comfortable in a chair
"This is going to be a long night sugar."
-
I'm sorry I don't have anything better to offer. You're all more than welcomed to stay, if you can find yourself a comfortable corner.
She smiles at Mother. More like a long day, I'm afraid. We'll go to Kumiho's place tomorrow morning to get what he needs. I'm very curious to see what is or is going to be Safe Return's reaction to the hack. Kumiho, do you think they will know what you manage to copy? We need to keep an eye of them... and watch our back.
-
Tanya nods and uses her cybered 'link to send a coded message to Monique. Only three letters long, the message lets the maid know that all is well. Afterwards, she takes Kachina at her word and finds a semi comfortable spot on the floor to curl up on.
-
With that decided Kumiho lays back again.
Sorry for the inconvenience. I hope nothing happened untoward while I was out?
-
Mother leans in her chair with her jacket against the wall.
"Day night whatever sugar I need a nap." said Mother closing her eyes.
-
Kachina nodded. She asked her summoned spirit to keep watch for the remaining of the night, before he would depart at dawn.
She settled in the middle of her lodge and closed her eyes in a meditative pose.
***
Morning came way too soon. Kachina woke up when her spirit departed and made some more coffee. Her apartment wasn't made for so many people and the scene was pretty funny to watch. She quietly stepped out to sip the hot beverage and take on the morning fresh air, at least as fresh as her neighborhood could offer, and observe with close attention the street. She looked for anything unusual, out of place or suspicious. She didn't know how much Safe return could have catch of the team when Kumiho got ICed. The last thing she wanted was being trace back to her place.
-
[Tuesday, 207505140922L]
Late morning arrives without incident and everyone wakes as the sun streams in through cracks in the curtains and around the seams of other window covers. Kumiho is pleased that his headache is almost entirely abated.
It seems that the only thing left to do is to see that Kumiho gets his deck repaired and then get the paydata to Saint James. At least, for the 'professional' portion of the job. Everyone's personal stake in Lyle Green's death may demand more...
-
Tanya wakes from sleep and stretches before standing. She looks around and makes for the bathroom where she uses the toilet and splashes some water on her face. Tanya returns to the main room and goes to the kitchen for some of the caf she can smell. She takes her cup and goes outside to join Kachina in the cool morning air, standing in companionable silence.
-
Mother Yawns and stretches.
"Soykaff." Mother moans looking in a mirror at the bags under her eyes.
"If I wanted to get up in the morning I'd have stayed a wageslave." said Mother with a sigh.
-
Kumiho wakes and grabs some quick Soycaf on his way out the door. His headache is still very much present but the urgency of the mission and the paydata weigh on his mind. Knowing everything relies on him, he takes a cab home to pick up his tools and then takes his motorcycle back to Kachina's place so He can get to work and re[pair the damages to his deck.
Once back he makes sits down to work at the kitchen table. Removing the case covering and getting to the guts of the deck.
-
Tanya finishes her caf and goes inside just in time to see Kumiho leave to go get his deck. Getting a refill on the caf, she goes to sit on the couch, pulling her legs under her. She lets her mind drift to the local news channels then she goes to the Who's Who directory of Seattle to look up the people she had met at the dance recital. After all, it never hurts to get a feel for possible future targets. She is looking for mention of jewelry collections, expensive knick knacks, and the like.
-
After a while Kumiho finishes his repairs to the deck and put it all back together. Then his does a system check, making sure that everything is working as it should. Secretly he was afraid that the damage the onboard memory, nut that seems to be as it should.
Ok, I have this fixed. I'll be busy a bit longer trying to decript the paydata. Not sure how long it will take. If you want you can pull the video feed from my commlink and start watching through it and see what kind of meeting Lyle had at Return Safe LTD. Kumiho hands out his commilink before slipping on his VR gloves and turning on his deck.
-
Tanya takes a break from her perusing and accesses the vid file Kumiho hints at. She puts the feed out to the team and hits play.
-
The video is clear and shows the entirety of the meeting between Lyle and Steelbit. Lyle reports to the receptionist, who looks on with interest as she buzzes Steelbit out of his office. The two men shake hands and after a few words, they enter Steelbit's office. Inside, the Return Safe CEO seems a perfect host. The two gentlemen talk over a drink and both men seem at ease, with smiles on their faces.
It is uncertain what they are talking about, but ultimately, it seems that Steelbit makes some manner of offer to Lyle, who appears to graciously decline. If Steelbit was put off by this, he did not let it show. Shortly after that, the conversation ends and Steelbit shows Lyle out. A few minutes later, Steelbit returns to his office, his smile completely wiped from his face. He makes a call on his commlink, his demeanor serious. He nods a few times as he speaks before finally ending the call.
Then, he taps his office line to the receptionist and speaks. The video feed on her end shows that she receives his orders and afterwards makes two calls.
Steel bit leaves the office shortly thereafter though the receptionist maintains her work day as seemingly normal before leaving at days end.
-
After a while, Kumiho shakes his head in frustration and turns his deck off. Turning to the others he says,
Frag it, this file is a little out of my league unfortunately. It will take someone who specialized in decrtyption with special software to decrypt it. Our best bet is to hand it over to the Johnson and hope that his resources can crack it.
-
Tanya nods and looks to Kachina. "Your call boss. Do you want to get hold of him?"
-
"What assurance do we have he'll share the data with us? I am more than a little curious what is in that file." said Mother.
-
Kachina was pondering on the next step for a second. Her look was very concerned. Obviously the Return Safe, Ltd people were not ones to underestimate. They were deadly.
Well, he'd be good to report to him about what we've got so far anyway. If James has a guy who can decrypt that file, then that will save of of us a lot of time. But before we call him, Kumiho, I was wondering... We have exact time and origin of Steelbit's call and his secretary's... those were outside calls, thus on the Matrix. Is there anyway to trace those communications or records, and find out to whom they were made?
-
"As a precaution against our Mr J being unforthcoming I can pass on a copy of the data to an infobroker I trust, to hold unopened until we ask perhaps...?"
-
Yes, I could try to find out who was called, during those times. Nothing that was said would be recorded on the matrix, unless we luck out and someone has bugged those comms, but we will have a trail to follow after this.
-
"That sounds like a plan. We give the unencrypted data to the johnson but we keep a copy." said Mother.
-
Tanya is troubled by the words from her teammates. She waits for a break then quietly says, "Hey guys. That goes against the way I roll. The man plops the quid down and the man gets what he paid for. I think we can ask if it is OK to make a copy just in case, but it is wrong to try to sneak something past him. I am not the boss here, but I need to get my tuppence in on this and say I think we need to do the job as paid. Saint James is the one who wanted us to find out what happened and he won't leave us swinging." She looks around to try to gauge the effect of her words.
-
"I agree that he should never know we have a copy and if he plays us straight he won't. If we make a copy and don't share it he'll never know. Then if he shares with us what's going on we can delete the copy but if he doesn't...I usually don't care what piece of data I'm slinging and wouldn't peek but this is about Lyle. It's personal sugar." said Mother.
-
Kumiho thinks about what is said before answering; weighing it all before speaking.
I don't Know Saint John personally, only by reputation. I believe that he is the type to share information that is vital to this case to all of us - as long as it is something that is linked to Lyle and Lyle's death. If the information has no connection to this then he is less likely to share it with us. He pauses before continues, stringing his thoughts together.
However, As a Hacker, It is my calling to bring forth truths and knowledge from where ever it has been hidden whether in the matrix or in life. I will be keeping a copy of this file for my self - whether you agree or not to this decision. I understand your feelings but I will not allow a secret that I have stolen away from a Dark place be hidden again. Lyle knew this of me, he respected this about me, and never asked me to with hold anything information I learned.
-
Tanya remains quiet but shakes her head; she has voiced her opinion on the matter. She realizes that it is hard to hold anything at all resembling a moral high ground when you are a thief. Still, it was important enough to her that it needed to be said.
-
"I meant to hold on to the data as an insurance policy rather than to actively use it but it was Kumiho who risked his brain in the host so it's his call on this one I suggest. We all have the reputations that we do due to discretion as well as effectiveness so I trust that the data won't be used inappropriately. We should contact our J and let him get his slicers on to the code or we won't know anything. Tanya, do you want to do that?" Requiem ensured that he included Kachina in on the question, they'd elected her group leader after all, but that had principally been for the tactical situation which they seemed, temporarily, to be out of...
-
Tanya looks to Kachina and receives a nod, She looks through her internal address book and sends a text off to Saint James, including the rest of the team members as CC addressees. >>It is Lady Marisart. We have some paydata for you. We have looked at some of it, but most of it seems to be encrypted beyond the current means of our guy. We would like to get this into your hands. The Return Safe people are not fooling around. Corporate-grade security at a minimum, heavy magic presence, and armed as a corporate or military HRT. Please advise our next step.<<
-
A response follows shortly thereafter:
<<@Lady Marisart cc Kumiho; Mother; Requiem; Kachina [Saint James] Excellent. Please send the file through secure channels as instructed in the attachment. This concludes your obligation in regards to the compensation granted upon our meeting. I am certain that there will be more forthcoming upon analysis of the contents. Going forward, I may call upon you?>>
There is a data bombed attachment, with permissions for Kumiho to open it, they include instructions for secure transfer of an item through Needle Net.
-
"Well it looks like we got paid. Who wants to get a drink?" said Mother.
-
Tanya smiles. "I could use one. And is that invitation to your place still open?"
-
"Of course sugar. You'll have to mind between my two groups of friends using my apartment it's a little like a frat house at times but you are welcome. I just worry it won't meet your standards." said Mother.
-
Tanya smiles and laughs. "Mother, you might just be surprised at where my standards are. I am willing to try it. I have my bike outside and can follow you there." She turns to the others, "We should all stay in touch. This is not over yet. We need to see justice for Lyle and these people at Return Safe are deep in this. Kumiho, will you be OK or do you need someone to see you home? And Requiem, I will be by your dojo for some lessons. Send me a text of your schedule so I can ask for you."
-
"You might just continue to surprise me." said Mother getting in her car.
She drove them to her humble apartment in her poor neighborhood.
She let Tanya in the building and led her up to her apartment. Opening the door the small living room was filled with LGBT Punks drinking beer led by Terr0r staring down Revere. Terr0r is a tan ork decker with a beard and breasts. revere is a pale elf in a suit with his nose in the air.
"I waited for you with these ruffians to talk...business. I see you have a guest I shall return later." said Revere.
"Yeah scram." said Terr0r.
-
Tanya wishes the others a good day and goes out with Mother, climbing on her Mirage and following the car. She parks and secures the bike before following Mother into the building, As they climb the stairs, Tanya says, "It has been a while since I have been in a place like this, but I do remember. Shacked with a bloke for a bit in a second floor walk-up flat. That is the third floor for you over here. He was an OK shag, but his sister? She was very.........instructive.........in the art of sex. Learned a lot from her. He was mostly my temp conduit to a right decent fence."
The noise from the room can be heard from the landing, the walls are that thin. Tanya follows Mother into the room and tries to get a good look at all of the players here. She nods as she is introduced. Most even seem nice and not overly surprised to have Mother bring a strange home with her. The Keeb named Revere seems a snooty type, but the Ork named Terr0r seems nice enough. "Nice to meet all of you, and please, Revere, do not go rushing off just because of me." She nods to Terr0r. "One of those beers happen to have my name on it?"
-
I will see to take Kumiho back to his place. She answered Tanya.
Despite what St. James says, I do not feel this is over. For once, Kumiho, please look into tracing those calls if it is not too dangerous. Secondly, I'm wary of Steele's response to his place being invaded.
I won't stop anyone for going and enjoy themselves, but please stay on the look out. I feel the man is very resourceful.
If nothing happens, let's all check up on each other every four hours.
She gives her good bye to Mother and Tanya and offers Kumiho a ride home. Requiem, want to stick around? what's your take on what Return Safe actions will be today?
-
"Those are my beers so of course you are welcome sugar." said Mother looking at Terr0r.
Terr0r went and grabbed a couple of cheap beers out of the fridge handed one to Mother and the other to Tanya.
"Well well who have we here?" said Terr0r smiling as she handed Tanya a beer.
Revere paused on his way to the door and appraised Tanya for a moment.
The rest of the party guests continued their conversations at a somewhat lower volume than before.
-
Tanya smiles. When she talks, her Brit accent is pronounced. "Sorry, I am Tanya Marisart, an acquaintance of Mother's. She offered me a place to sit for a bit. Er, as long as no one objects? I would not want to be a disturbance."
-
Requiem, want to stick around? what's your take on what Return Safe actions will be today?
"Sure, I'll stick around for a bit... I too don't think this is over yet. As to their reaction I guess that depends on whether they pick up on any finger prints, digital or otherwise, that we left. If they do then I would anticipate some serious digging into Tanya's background. I'll ask Silk to keep her ear to the ground for info requests on our Lady!"
-
"I am called Revere. Enchante." said the elf holding out his hand to Tanya.
"Hey I thought you were leaving. The keeb is a square. You should let me show you a party." said Terr0r with a smile.
"Tanya is a new business associate. A toast. To one more day above ground sugar." said Mother holding up her beer.
-
Tanya holds up her beer. "Another day, indeed. Always a nice feeling." She takes a swig then looks at the others, taking the hand offered by Keeb. "Nice to meet you, Revere. And you as well, Terr0r. And I am up for a party, no matter who is showing me. I just need a place to hang out for a bit, if that is OK with everyone here?"
-
"It was a pleasure meeting you but unlike some I have an occupation. Bienvenue et au revoir." Said Revere letting himself out.
"Now that the Keeb with a stick up his arse is gone let's party!" said Terr0r turning up some experimental Ork rock/rap fusion and starting to dance.
Mother sipped her beer and said "If you want we can retire to the relative quiet of my bedroom to trade war stories or stay here. It's up to you. Welcome to my humble abode sugar."
-
Tanya bows and says in very good French. "Bonsoir monsieur Revere. J'espère vous voir à nouveau lorsque vous avez plus de temps." Then she laughs as she puts her beer down and moves to join Terr0r, letting the music draw her body into the dance. As she twists to the beat, she calls out, "We can do war stories in a bit. Now is the time to let loose and have some fun."
Translation: Good evening Monsieur Revere. I hope to see you again when you have more time.
-
Mother smiles and joins the dancers relaxing her shoulders.
"You're right. It's not good to take myself so serious all the time Sugar. Gotta let my hair down." Shouted Mother while literally letting her dreads fall from the tie that held them back from her face.
Terr0r laughs and winks at Tanya.
"I thought by your dress you'd be another Stick in the mud like Revere. You're alright." said Terr0r laughing.
-
Tanya laughs with Mother and gets into the swing of the moment. She has to almost shout over the music. "Love the hair. Does it take long to fix it that way?" She mingles with as many people as possible, finding the strange gathering like a catharsis for some of her internal struggles. When Terr0r speaks she puts her mouth close to his ear and says, "I am about as far from a stick in the mud as you will ever hope to find. You should let me take you to the lower levels of Hell at the Inferno some time. I have a special pass."
-
After a while, Tanya grabs another beer and goes to stand at the wall. Just watching the others excites her and leads her to wonder a bit at what she might be missing in her ivory tower. She waves the can at Mother as she passes, but is content enough to just stand and watch.
-
"Dreads are what happens to your hair when you live on the streets and have no way to fix it. I wear them now as a badge of where I've been. Also I like the predator look...You know that trid right?" said Mother.
"Lower levels of Hell? Sounds like a date." said Terr0r with a wink.
"Don't mind Terr0r they'll hit on anyone." said Mother.
"I don't hit on you. I've got standards." said Terr0r laughing.
-
Tanya laughs at all of the byplay between the group. Mother and Terr0r seem to be the main wheels, but there are others here that surface every once in a while. After listening to the conversations around her for a bit, she goes back onto the impromptu dance floor to where Terr0r is and shouts. "We can make that date, but only if you promise not to bomb it while we are there." Afterwards, she just tries to stay active for a while, finally caving in and moving to the wall again. She feels done for the night and looks to see if Mother is ready to talk war stories.
-
"Mother joins Tanya on the wall. Woo. It's good to let your hair down sugar. You know you are alright. I wondered about you at first. I wasn't always a runner either. I was a working class kid that awakened and suddenly found herself bumped up a few income brackets. I knew I was still a wageslave though. I saw the divide between the haves and the have nots and it bothered me you know. A lot of kids out of the academy they were born with money and they acted like it. I couldn't stand their airs. I couldn't take the day job. I didn't set out to be a runner and that's a whole story in itself." said Mother sipping her beer.
-
Tanya looks at Mother and smiles. "Thanks. I am sure that I would have airs as well. I was born with the proverbial platinum spoon in my mouth. Parents had tons of money but were seldom home. When they were they were always too busy to see me. Older brothers were mostly away at school. Lots of governesses and tutors. I started stealing when I was, oh, about seven. Stuff around the house, you know. Got caught and the governor, dear daddy that is, decided I was to go boarding school. Boooooring for the most part, though I learned a lot about how to up my stealing game. Got kicked out a lot. In and out of eight schools in three years. Ninth one was the charm. Learned all about sex with boys and girls. Got even better at stealing. Met a bloke in London. Small-time fence, but he knew his stuff and taught me lots. Stayed at this last school and finished. My parents had arranged a large party for my eighteenth birthday. They were going to parade me in front of the eligible bachelors and try to marry me off. And I was a good catch, being the daughter of a very wealthy Viscount. The whole family was riding in the Rolls to the party. I was standing through the sun roof when I saw the car coming. It hit us broadside and I was ejected through the roof. Fragged up my body a lot but I lived. I was watching my family trying to get out of the car when it exploded. End of all I knew in one split second of fire. Lots of surgery. Lots of pain. Got money from mummy, but all of daddy's was tied to the estate and girls do not inherit unless all male relatives are dead. Short ending is that I was tossed off with a very nice trust fund and was exiled here after some indiscretions involving underage girls, drugs, and lots of sex. Did I mention that the underage girl had VERY important political relatives, including her daddy. So I am an exile. But I like it here. And I get better at stealing things every day.
-
"Are stories aren't that different. I slept with the wrong princes son and his daddy was none too happy. I was already very opinionated sugar and that doesn't go over well in the Tir. I had to run from the only home I've known. I prefer Seattle. It has a better gay scene anyway." Said Mother with a smile.
-
Tanya smiles at Mother. "Yes. In some fashion I am sure that most of us have similar tales. I am sorry to hear about the Keeb. Did you love him and why did he not come after you?"
-
"As often happens he chose daddy and his money over me. Ce'st la vie sugar." said Mother.
-
Tanya nods with a small smile. "Oui. Ce'st la vie."
-
"You seem like a chameleon. You get on with the hoity toidy and even Revere likes you and he doesn't like anyone. And then you came here which honestly surprised me and you seem to get on with my rougher friends...the Pink Lodge, we claim to be an initiatory group but sometimes I feel like we are more like a gay gang. We police our neighborhoods, keep out Humanis and other hate groups, etc. Cheers sugar. To a working professional relationship, Because god knows I've had less functional ones, and a possiblly budding friendship." said Mother holding up her beer looking a little buzzed.
-
Tanya smiles and raises her own can. "I think that we can be friends and certainly we can work together. And you have nice friends. A bit odd, certainly, but I am certainly odd myself."
-
Mother watches a drunk punkrocker float up to the cieling.
"Definitely odd sugar."
-
Tanya watches the floating man and says, "Now, I wonder what sex is like while floating like that. I think it would be fun."
-
"It's nice sugar. " said Mother.
-
Tanya turns to look at Mother with appraising eyes. "And is anyone here willing to instruct me in the finer points of shagging while floating?"
-
"I'm sure someone would. I am going to turn in sugar. Feel free to stay as long as you like...everyone else does." Said Mother yawning.
-
Tanya stays for a short time longer then quietly makes her way out of the house and back to her bike. Climbing on, she takes a few minutes to look at the house and considers all of the people she has just met. These are good people, living a different life but still good people. Kicking the engine to life, she bends low over the bike and races off into the night, home and her own strange life.