Cape City IC (Thread II)

[Thelonius]

Interlude: Ledau's Walk
End Route №1: The Unity of Will (Cradle Ending)

The people in the streets were walking in lines. It was a very disquieting sight, a perfect synchrony of actions, a mechanical execution and a sense of sameness. They all looked the same. Tall men to tall men. Women to women, children to children. All Dulls. Ladeau walked in painful understanding, that he was sticking out, like a sore thumb. He usually liked that, his natural showmanship simply demanded to be larger then life. Right now he wished to be as small and inconspicuous as possible. The one man in the sea of... Did he think of Dulls as less than human. Not before. But now, when there were so many of them around him, so different from him. Ladeau approached a window of an electronics store, hoping to see an active screen with some news on it. None were working and the place was empty. Abandoned by its owners with everything still left inside. He caught a movement of a man walking alone, so unlike others, but he disappeared before the corner, before Doctor could recognize him. Ladeau started walking in the direction he thought the man went.

There was a group of statues were at the end of the street. He recognized one of them as Magister. Statues? He considered the possibility, that this was the real Magister, turned to stone by some Power. The statues looked to be made of jade, very lifelike. He thought he recognized somebody from Magister's Circle - Librarian? They were seldom in the news. One of the statues looked like a man in power armor. The possibility that they used to be human again rose to his mind.

''Ladeau!'' Words startled him. A familiar voice. He turned to meet Maestro.
''Maestro! You... '' Only his self-control prevented wariness from seeping into Ledau’s voice. Maestro looked the same in his suit, white shirt, though it looked a bit more stuffy then usual. Or maybe that was the way he wore it now. Still, the self-assured, cocky smile was exactly the same as usual.
''Never thought myself a company man. But well, the time comes to make hard choices. So now I’m middle management. You’d never guess, who I work under. Hah.'' Maestro chuckled. He looked to be in a good cheer.
''You are working for... Cradle'' That was the first organization he could think of, that could have had something to do with Dulls in the streets. What happened to others? Relocated? Or a more disturbing thought - Infected?
''One and only. Being working with them pretty much since they took over Cape City. And the rest. Two thirds of the world since our last offensive. Under what rock have you been hiding?''
''I was trapped in a pocket dimension. Had a rundown with a Power, old grudges.'' Not his smoothest lie, but he managed to convey it without ring of falsehood. Take over the world... Could one criminal organization actually do that? Dulls... About 1% of population was vulnerable and not all who could be infected got it. It still made for a lot of cases, but the pandemic never threatened the civilization. Or maybe people just didn't like to think about it. He knew most of his facts from Andraste and for someone dedicated to fighting Cradle she was really tight-lipped about them. Then again she almost blew him to bits at their first meeting. Just how much of her paranoia was justified?

''Oh yes. Good old times. You know, your kind of skills isn’t what the company is regularly looking for, but I can get you a job. There’ll be some adjustments, but it’s either that or they shoot you. So I really advise you to take me up on this.'' Maestro sounded fairly sincere. He was always on good terms with Ledau... Or was it a mask. Working for Cradle. He asked the next question more to buy himself some time.
''So what’s your job?''
''Mostly managing the human production. Between Furies and the war against the Competitor, we are running short on manpower. Need to pop new ones as fast as we can. Splicer is in charge of that. He cracked even before we got him. His wife died. The adjustment channeled that madness in decanting her clones day after day, off to die in the war.''
''And what happened to others?'' There was a morbid curiosity to that question.
''Robin killed herself. Burnt out her own brains, rather than be adjusted. Just an empty husk now. On other hand - Dire is brain in a jar. We use her to examine technology. Zero got Lockwood out of the city, but Coban got infected. Probably died in the war by now. Hadron was gone after that Prophet business. A lot of old faces remain, mostly adjusted. You'll meet them.''
Adjusted. The word was used casually for what it was. ''Did they adjust you Maestro? Or did you join willingly?''
''Willingly.'' Maestro smiled. ''But then again, if I were the Boss, I’d have my brainwashed puppets think that.''
''Boss... who runs Cradle?'' Perhaps this time Ledau didn't keep his voice controlled enough. A shadow of doubt lit in Maestro's eyes.
''Now, you ask it, like that matters.'' Maestro gave another look to Ladeau. ''Everybody knows that. No need for subterfuge anymore. I thought you could be at worse with Zero-Helix or Medicant. Some half-assed infiltration attempt.'' Maestro looked apologetic now, though not to a degree to actually feel guilty about it, Ladeau thought. ''Sorry man, I’d rather not compromise my next performance review. I mean you sound like a time traveler. It wouldn't be smart of me to blabber out important stuff. Never heard of a Power like that, but who knows.''

Men emerged from the nearby door, moving purposefully towards Ladeau, while Maestro stood and watched. Was there a chance to take him hostage? Ladeau doubted it would work. He looked around searching for escape routes and saw none. The thought of what was going to happen chilled him. Then bullets ripped into the advancing Dulls. He saw her - Ethel. His legs were already sprinting away. If they could... Maestro was unharmed, some sort of force field protecting him. He didn’t have a weapon, but newly arriving Dulls sure did. Ethel. ''Run'' she screamed. An explosion from a hurled grenade detonated near her. He thought he saw men in special forces uniform... The insignia reminded him of some rumor about Admin C. Special forces. Damn. Run... Run where. The whole place was a madhouse. How did it happen... It didn’t. This wasn’t real. Or maybe it was. Maybe it was real enough. Ledau knew where he’d run. To his house. To the door that would lead to the other side. It probably wasn’t real. He doubted he would have made it otherwise - the grip of the Cradle was too strong, certainly he could escape it only if this was a dream.

''Ladeau. Ledeu'' He woke. Andraste was looking over him. ''You were having a nightmare.''
''Ah... I thank you for waking me up then.'' He looked her over. ''How was your fight?''
''Whatever their plans are, we put a wrench into them. A temporary setback at most.'' Andraste's battle armor concealed her face, but Ladeau could feel the tiredness in it. He knew of their success, even before asking the question, but hearing it felt good. He needed it right now.
''Maybe not that minor'' He whispered. He wasn't certain, if she heard him.
''Watch your step. If they find out you helped us, you’d be on their list. I’ll be making sure those kids survive the night.'' Andraste left, melting into darkness.

Ladeau walked down the stairs. His familiar's voice from the west tower told him that the restaurant was going to have its first clients. The door swung open and the bells rung. He was surprised to see four people. Aha, so that what the scheme. The city teemed with secrets and it looked like he just figured one of them. That lifted his spirits and he felt himself shaking down the memory of the dream. That was feeling less and less real with each passing second. Ledau bowed shifting his cane from one hand to another. ''Just who I wanted to see. Ethel should be making most delicious pancakes right now. And you can get them free as a one-time limited deal.''

[NM020110]

Maribel

Abattoir Decontamination Project[PM]

"Fair enough. Just try not to die anytime soon."

Maribel leaves through the portal, to address those that came with her this time.

"You have done well, today. There will come another day when we will finish the Harvesters, but this is not that day. For now, you have earned a few rewards. First, I offer the cash bonus that I spoke to you of earlier. Use it as you please."

Maribel waves, and a number of small aluminum cases drop into the group. In all, the cases contain [2 cash].

"Secondly, you're getting plenty of time off. At the very least, you will not be called upon again until the end of the month, so enjoy yourselves. You did well today.

"I will alert you, however, that your brothers in the Kamakura-kai have taken losses. They may have need of your aid, so I'd encourage you to feel at ease helping them...ah, one last thing. Kamakura-dono wished that your affiliation with the Kamakura-kai not be made plain. To aid in this, and to celebrate this victory, I would grant you a title, if you would accept it. The Knights of the Gap."

OOC: Ascaloth, if you'd like to keep roleplaying your followers this would be a great opportunity.


Sanctuary[PM]

Kamakura-kai

I suspect that I know what you wish to ask. Unless yesterday's events have pushed my recovery back again, I should be able to bring Ronin back sometime next month. You'll probably have to fix whatever damage killed him so he doesn't just die again, however, and if you aren't preserving the body I would strongly suggest you start now.



Jack Mitchell[PM]

"Already replaced, I'm afraid. I'll get it out."

Maribel taps the air, causing a small section of it to crack and fall into a hole colored deep purple, verging on black. She reaches her hand into this hole, and pulls out a tablet, and proceeds to set it on the desk.

"As to my power..."[/color]

Maribel sighs. This is clearly a touchy subject for her...

"My power allows for two things. The first, though I mentally suppress it most of the time, allows me to see boundaries. If I can see a boundary, or conceive of it, I can push against the boundary to alter it, though the world resists such alterations making the ability very tiring to use."

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic

To Legions of Dire[M]

by AJokingRiddle

Greetings
We have heard about the technological capabilities of Doctor Dire and we are interested in a legal and non weapon related collaboration project with her about medical technologies. Will Doctor Dire be free in the upcoming month for such a discussion and/or work?

ooc:((If Dire recognizes the person/Mesh signature who sends this from a few turns back on the mesh topic on Architects disappearing i leave up to you)).

[Lost Demiurge]

Interlude and Fluff



MUCH LATER

And in the middle of the night, three junky cars pull up to the Kamakura-Kai parking garage. They are heaps, barely held together. It's not until whoever's at the gate looks down, that they notice the tires are hovering about an inch off the ground.

Once in and directed to a parking space, three figures climb out of them, as the cars settle to the ground with a CRUNCH. Tarps are pulled from the trunks, and thrown over them. Engines are depowered, systems close down, one by one. The figures sweep them with Dire Detectors, nod. Secured and safe.

One figure is wrapped in heavy clothes, but faintly glowing red lenses are visible over his bandanna, where his eyes should be. The other is a shortish, somewhat chunky woman with a plain face.

The third is an unknown, tall woman. Spindly and thin, with brown hair under a baseball cap, wearing a simple grey jumpsuit and toolbelt. Plain face. Doesn't smile much. Streaks of grey twist through her hair.

The Oyabun arrives with his retinue, a little red in the face and slightly less steady than when Dire met him last. Apparently he has been drinking, a lot.

The thin woman turns to face him. Sighs. Pulls off her baseball cap, and bows. Holds it.

The kumicho returns the bow, straightens up, and looks at the trio.

"I... assume you're Dire-sensei?"

The tall woman straightens up. "Greetings, Mister Kamakura. This is Dire, hai." She holds a hand to the chunky woman, who pulls a thin knife, slowly, and a handkerchief. Hands them to Dire. Dire studies them for a second, splays her left hand. "Three mistakes in the plan," she says. "And a cost to you which brings Dire much shame."

The Oyabun walks up, and puts his hand on hers. "No."

Dire studies him for a long moment.

"You are well-learned in our customs... But that does not mean I expect you to follow them.""

"..."

Dire hands the materials back to the chunky woman, who tucks them away.

"The... failure was not yours alone, I expect."

"...No. But enough of it was, that amends must be made."

"Amends... right."

"We will discuss the issue of amends another time... when you are better served to offer them."

Dire winces. Pride burns in her eyes, but she banishes it.

"And we are better suited to recieve them."

"Very well. Shall we move inside, Mister Kamakura?"

The Oyabun frowns at her wince. "Perhaps that was not the right choice of words. Forgive me, I am not in a fit state to receive guests. But yes, let's move back inside."

"No forgiveness is necessary."

And the two, with their respective entourages in tow, move back inside.

KAMAKURA-KAI HQ
(Kamakura-Kai, GM)
What follows is a long discussion. Grief, the loss of Ronin, and the Oyabun's desire to find a way to negate Shaper, possibly by doing something to Doctor Shea.

If anyone else shows up who isn't Maribel, Dire shall put on her battlesuit before talking to them. Otherwise, she's securing her new quarters and settling in. If the production for this turn isn't finished she'll have to fire up the workshop and get it done. Otherwise the workshop remains boxed.



Legion of Dire [M]
to Serpiente Diabolic

"HMM, YOU AGAIN. YOU VANISHED ENTIRELY FOR A WHILE, JUST WHEN THE DISCUSSION WAS GETTING GOOD."

"DIRE WILL BE BUSY FORTIFYING THE DOCKS AGAINST REPRISAL THIS MONTH, BUT NEXT MONTH MAY PERMIT SOME TIME FOR A SECURED DISCUSSION. LET US SEE HOW EVENTS UNFOLD."

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic

Legion of Dire [M]

"...Wait! You were TitaniumTyrant, ah sorry i dint realise it sooner, and Sorry for disappearing, i just agreed with your viewpoint and had nothing constructive to add back then in our discussion, so instead of beating a dead horse as they said i kinda.....dropped off."

"Your words also made me question my facts and i tried to find out more. But things conspired as usual and i also had the matter of my new studies in the University(they are more awesome than one would be lead to believe)."

"Of course see you then next month Doctor Dire it was a pleasure talking with you again."

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Serpiente Diabolic [M]

"A STUDENT, THEN? INTERESTING. YOU MUST BE IN CAPE CITY PROPER, NOT MANY SCHOOLS LEFT OUTSIDE OF THERE, THESE DAYS."

"ODD THAT YOU SHOULD COME TO DIRE WITH SOMETHING, EVEN IF IT IS LEGAL. DIRE IS THE OPPOSITE OF LEGAL. WELL, YOU HAVE PEAKED DIRE'S INTEREST AT ANY RATE."

"ALSO, SHOULD YOU EVER LEARN MORE OF THE ARCHITECT'S WHEREABOUTS, DISAPPEARANCE, OR ANYTHING ELSE PERTINENT, DIRE WILL REWARD YOU HANDSOMELY FOR SUCH INFORMATION."

"THE MAN WAS DIRE'S GREATEST FOE, AND THE MOST BRILLIANT MIND DIRE HAS EVER KNOWN. HELL, TOWARD THE END OF THINGS, WE NO LONGER BOTHERED MOVING AGAINST EACH OTHER IN THE PHYSICAL WORLD. ONE OF US WOULD SET A SCHEME IN MOTION, AND THE OTHER WOULD DETECT IT IN THE EARLY STAGES, EVALUATE IT, AND CONTACT THE OTHER WITH THE DETAILS AND A PLAN TO COUNTER IT. SAVED MONEY, TIME, AND EFFORT."

"MUCH LIKE MASTER SWORDSMAN SHOWING AN OPPONENT THEIR STANCE BEFORE A DUEL, THAT IS THE CLOSEST ANALOGY THAT COMES TO MIND. IF ONE IS CLEARLY SUPERIOR, THE ACTUAL DUEL NEED NOT HAPPEN."

"BUT DIRE DIGRESSES. DIRE, OR A REPRESENTATIVE, SHALL SPEAK TO YOU NEXT MONTH."

[Tin Lamb]

Kamakura-Kai[M]
Of course, honored associates. Your goods are safe with us. Depending on the sensitivity required, this could cost upwards of [8 Cash].
Should more entertaining jobs arise, similar to the campaign on the Riders, feel free to contact us. We grow restless.

Matchstick[PM]
Initially, a demonstration of skill. Should you meet our requirements, a full contract will be offered.

Mid-Turn Reaction[PM]
****, ****... Red muttered. Hugh talked about this a few weeks ago. Was it Sentinels, or Wardens with the nullifier? No time to figure it out.

Men, change of plan. Be on lookout for a teleporter, some uh... spider rider, a blaster, and according to our friend, a cartoonist. If you see anyone dressed like a hero, not fitting those descriptions, shoot to disable on my word. That one is stopping this operation..

Addressing the sky, Red shouts "Gatemistress! You may want to talk, but NOW IS NOT THE TIME!"

Hugh, Dire, Splicer[M]
Research is not my field, so forgive if this reaches the wrong ears. Are any of you able to cure, or researching a cure, for Dulls? I do not wish the time and investment of training a squadron, just to lose them to some illness.
-Red

[Forum Explorer]

Administrative Site C


Some fluff
Agent Moore walked the line, looking at the new recruit carefully. It was annoying to do but this was a lesson that needed to be taught to everyone, not just her new recruits.

"What is your name solider?" she barked at the tall, overly muscled man in front of her.

"Ogre Mam!" He barked back, looking briefly at Moore before returning his gaze to the other side of the gym.

"Ogre is a power name boy! You think you've got a power?"

"Yes Mam! Got the strength of ten men!" He boasted proudly.

"Is that so? Well lucky you then. You get to demonstrate for the rest of the class." Moore said, geasturing to the other recruits.

"Yes Mam...umm how?"

"By fighting me. Let's see how your power holds up." Agent Moore sneered.

"I don't want to hurt you Mam, I joined to help people."

"Very noble of you, but if you don't throw a bunch in the next three seconds I'm going to leave you in a crumpled heap on the street you understand me?" Moore yelled. Ogre nodded and threw a clumsy punch. Moore dodged it, after the Drowned Ogre was too slow and too weak to really faze her. Almost lazily she pulled out her tazer, zapped him, and drew a gun while he was on the ground.

"Now what is your name solider?" She screamed at him.

"You crazy ***** you cheated!" Ogre yelled back.

"Wrong answer!" Moore tazed him again. "In a fight there are no rules! Thinking there are rules gets you killed. Now what's your name!"

"Ogre- AAARRRGH!" Ogre screamed. Moore asked him again. "Frank! Frank Smith! My name is Frank Smith." Ogre said, tears in his eyes.

"Nice to meet you Frank. Now do you know why I won?"

"Because you cheated Mam?" Frank asked.

"Yes," Moore smiled and helped Frank up, "but also because I used a weapon. And that's the first lesson for you all. Powers, most powers don't mean much. You get the rare exceptions but 9 times out of 10 a man with training and a gun is much more dangerous. The reason why we are so effective is because we have equiptment, we have training, and we have the will to back it up. We aren't some idiot with a flashy power and an attitude."

"And what about the one out of ten who do matter?"

"They are why we exist. We aren't some gang, or petty assassins. No we hunt down those who powers are a true risk to everyone. Who are omnicidal maniacs on a short fuse, who think their power makes the rest of us ants to be squashed. Always remember, we are the ones who protect humanity, we face the worst and the hardest threats without flinching, and in order to win we cheat, we break the rules, and we kill to ensure that there will be tomorrow for us all. Understand?"

"Yes Mam!" The recruits yelled.

"Good! Now get to sparring and we'll start whipping you into proper soldiers yet!

[Eldan]

Splicer to Hugh Donovan, Doctor Dire, Tin Lamb [M]

I'd love to research dulls. It is the great plague of our age. But I never have the time or the resources to get any large scale research done. Whenever I start something, I get interrupted by violence of some kind. Gangs, anti-powers, the Harvesters, the Prophet... or I need to work on the very basics and create my own lab assistants from scratch.

So no. I doubt I will have a solution to Dulls any time soon.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Street Legal, Hugh Donovan, Splicer [M]

"THE DULLS PLAGUE MUST BE CURED. ERADICATED. SIGNS POINT TO IT BEING A MANUFACTURED DISEASE. SOMEONE IS BENEFITTING FROM THIS, THOUGH DIRE IS UNCERTAIN AS TO THE HOW OF IT, AT THIS JUNCTURE."

"AS TO RESEARCH UPON IT... DIRE'S MAIN EXPERTISE IS ELECTRONICS. COULD COLLABORATE WITH SOMEONE WHO WAS MEDICALLY INCLINED. BUILD SOME EFFECTIVE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT, ABOVE CURRENT STANDARDS, FOR A SMALL PRICE. MEDICALLY INCLINED PERSON WOULD HAVE TO DO HEAVY LIFTING FROM THAT POINT ON, HOWEVER."

"ALL THIS IS CONTINGENT UPON TIME, HOWEVER. HAVE HAD TO BE A WARLORD, FIGHTING OFF ALL COMERS. DETRACTS FROM RESEARCH TIME. PERHAPS IN A MONTH OR TWO, MEDICAL MATTERS CAN BE FOCUSED UPON."

"IN MEANTIME, SUGGEST YOU KEEP YOUR PEOPLE COMFORTABLE, HIDE THEM. DO NOT LET CARETAKERS HAUL THEM OFF, OR FILTH LIKE HARVESTERS GRAB THEM AS SLAVES."

"INCIDENTALLY, WHO ARE YOU? THIS IS THE FIRST TIME YOU HAVE CROSSED DIRE'S ONLINE PATH. DIRE HAS ABSOLUTELY NO CLUE OF YOUR IDENTITY OR NATURE."

"YOU SPEAK OF SQUADRONS... SURELY YOU ARE NOT THE MILITARY?"

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Sanctuary [PM]
Maribel
Oyabun: I understand. I shall make arrangements with Dr Blake to that end. I will update Hearn-dono further when preparations are done.
Oyabun: On another note. With regards to this Dr Shea, what is the extent of Hearn-dono's ability to... arrange talks between her and myself? Would my earlier assistance to Hearn-dono be sufficient recompense in that regard?

Unit Blue
Oyabun: Tune-san, do you believe you can track the location of this Dr Shea through your abilities?
Oyabun: Also, do you know of any way by which we may track the current whereabouts of this Shaper?

Unity
Oyabun: My dear friend, I must now ask for your assistance in a delicate matter.
Oyabun: The Shaper has proven himself to be a menace, to a degree which can be ignored no longer.
Oyabun: Given the circles you move in, do you believe you can get a feel for the general opinion of the legitimate Hero factions towards the Shaper?
Oyabun: Perhaps spur them into immediate action against this rogue Power if they are not planning to do so, already?

Dr Dire [PM]
The next morning, should Dire step out of her sleeping quarters, she would find a gift basket containing a variety of provisions, as well as a small card.


Dire-sensei,

I hope you slept well last night. Do join me for breakfast downstairs, so that we may talk before going about our respective business for the day. I have more to enquire about, regarding Mr Witters and his current whereabouts.

Kamakura

To Street Legal [M]
That is good to hear. I would like to request that you keep a car and a driver in readiness during the next [Mid-Turn], for I may need to call upon your services on short notice.

As for the details of the job, they are still being firmed up, but I should warn you that the destination of the drop-off point is potentially hazardous, which is why I would recommend that your courier have a means to dump the delivery at the destination quickly so as to make a quick getaway, if necessary. There will be no requirement to handle the unloading of the object with care, for this job.

I will furnish you with more details next [Turn], shall I call upon your services.

Kamakura

To Splicer [M]
An additional job on top of the one we have already requested of yourself, Dr Blake. We will be delivering the body of Ronin to yourself some time next [Turn]; do you believe you can repair the damage that resulted in his untimely demise? This job will not be a preparation for the grave, but rather to undo the injuries that took his life, in the assumption that such would suffice for him to make a full recovery.

For this, I will offer a consultation fee upfront, as well as an additional fee upon the completion of the work, if such is possible.

Kamakura

[NM020110]

Maribel

Sanctuary[PM]

Kamakura-kai

Maribel: "To arrange talks? That should be possible to do, though it depends on how trusting they are. If you've been threatening them or something, things might be more difficult.
Maribel: "Let's clarify what you're asking, I suppose. Do you wish for me to simply facilitate communications, to aid in her kidnapping, or to aid in her death?
Maribel: "Communications, I can do, and it would be covered by your earlier favor to me. Kidnapping or death...I could theoretically do those as well, but for a few reasons will decline to accept your request.

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Client Notification (Semi-Public: Read if you Like)

Due to a clerical error, some of the numbers on our next-gen equipment have been mixed up. The price listed for the HTM-50 will only equip 4 Followers, not 5, and the price listed for the PFR2 will equip 5, not 4. My deepest apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.

OOC: Read my notes wrong, sorry guys. A couple of people are going to be getting slightly fewer weapons than expected this turn.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Sanctuary [PM]
Maribel
Oyabun: An interesting conjecture on my motivations, Hearn-dono.
Oyabun: If you would not mind, would you perhaps like to share with me how you came to the conclusion that I would do anything so... violent towards this Dr Shea?
Oyabun: And, for that matter, why you would advise me against such a course of action?

To Maestro [M]
Don Maestro, we have earmarked the [3 Cash] I promised to you, to be wired to your account by [EoT]. Do confirm your receipt of the money when it has gone through.

I understand that Don Maestro owes us a small favour still for our assistance in the matter of the faux Brotherhood, some time back? On behalf of my good man Shifu, whose services I sorely miss these days, I would like to call in that favour now. May I know when you would be able to make time for me?

Kamakura

To Splicer [M]
Dr Blake, as agreed earlier, I will leave my two good men Shifu, and the late Ronin in your hands. If you intend to bill us for your services, as you have indicated earlier, please do so soon so that I may know what to expect.

I understand that Dr Blake owes us a small favour still for our assistance in the matter of the faux Brotherhood, some time back? On behalf of my good man Shifu, whose services I sorely miss these days, I would like to call in that favour now. May I know when you would be able to make time for me?

Kamakura

[Eldan]

Splicer to the Kamakura-Kai

I will charge [2 cash] for healing. That, I think, is a reasonable cost and most would charge much more simply for their time.

Restoring Ronin... I have never restored one who was completely brain dead before. Explain to me his powers and physiology in detail first, and I will decide what can be done.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Splicer [M]
More than reasonable, Dr Blake. You have my most sincere gratitude for your assistance in this matter.

Regarding Ronin, his was the power to impart a high-frequency enhancement to any object he touches, which he most frequently uses on his personal blade. Other than that, his physiology should be that of a normal human.

Forgive me for belabouring that point, but about the favour owed...

Kamakura

[Eldan]

Splicer to the Kamakura-Kai [M]

If he is baseline human in his physiology, I am not sure how much can be done to save him. I will certainly try, but I can make no promises. If I can preserve his brain, if he hasn't died too long ago, maybe, though there may be some damage.

And yes, favours. Of course. Come any time [during the next turn. I've already used all my actions this turn.]

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Splicer [M]
I... see. Please do what you can for Ronin, Dr Blake. I will pay your asking fee either way, again within reason.

As for favours; yes, indeed, I was simply making sure that you can set aside some time in your schedule next [Mid-Turn]. I am as yet uncertain whether I would actually call upon your services then, but do be ready for it when the time comes.

As for the nature of the favour... would Dr Blake have in your possession some sort of poison or pathogen, which when injected will kill an individual not immediately, but within a week? I may need you to make use of such an item, with no questions asked, of course.

Kamakura

[Eldan]

Splicer to Kamakura-Kai

I have a sample of something that should be perfect, if I can reproduce it. Otherwise, I'll make something of my own.

Thelonius [PM]

The poison Hugh Donovan was infected with... I did take samples, could I reproduce a dose of it, enough to kill someone?

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Splicer [M]
That sounds good, Dr Blake. Once again, I sincerely appreciate everything you have done for us. Please do not hesitate to call upon us if you need our assistance in any matter.

Kamakura

[Thelonius]

Turn 6: Hidden
Begins...
Mr. Quin: 12323. 1033341221143313104. 112324341324214. 22242314342432142312.

Harvest Interrupted

The Caretaker’s harvest is unexpectedly foiled by Lightbringers and Andraste. There are rumors some Lightbringers were either killed or wounded, but no definite information.

Andraste: ''I have confirmed that about 60% of the Dulls are shipped away to be sold as slaves or experiment subjects. The rest seem to disappear in the thin air. I suspect that Cradle uses them for some sort of research, and that may mean they have a lab either in Outer City or Cape City.''

Serpentine Diabolic [PM]

Andraste appears with unconscious Rose. ''She’s sedated. There’s a chance that Cradle has messed with her mind - implants or telepaths. You should find a friendly Telepath.''


Greendale Blight

A poisonous blight appears in the Greendale. Fortunately it’s not in a heavily populated area and it’s not too large.

Legion of Steel

Legion of Steel starts a recruitment campaign assembling an army of mercenaries in the Junks. The rumors fly that the recruitment campaign was brought by a contract to fight US Military.

Adrian Banks

Soon after the news of the Prophets attack on the press conference, Adrian Banks makes a new statement over the Mesh. He looks a bit flustered, but uninjured. A step behind him stands a red android, a sleek and powerful design, bearing a chess queen emblem. A deep slash running across its/her arm is quickly growing more shallow, disappearing completely by the time Banks finishes speaking.

''The Prophet’s attack was foiled and six Powers were liberated from his control. They are currently undergoing psychiatric evaluation and their relatives have been contacted. I would like to give my thanks to Cogworks for operating the Cape City Interdiction Field, that cut off the escape through teleportation. I fear Prophet himself has evaded capture, but the city will put its resources to finding and ending his reign of terror.''

The victory over the Prophet is met with general cheer and growing support for Banks as somebody, who can solve the city’s problems. The announcement that he is running for Mayor hardly surprises anyone.

Captain Hadron is Missing!

The jubilant mood is spoiled somewhat by the news that Captain Hadron went missing. It appears Prophet traded six for one... Captain Hadron was popular and respected hero and his many fans are hoping that he'll find way out of this bind...

Docks Real Estate

Banks Industries is buying leases for Warehouses in the Outer City Docks. While most have long lapsed and thus are bought from the city for peanuts, a few turn out to be in the hands of the local gang, Night Crews, who gleefully sell them for a hefty profit.

There are rumors that Banks Industries are going to do some project in Docks and Robintown is part of it.

Stocks, Stocks, Stocks

Banks stocks fell once the news of the Prophet’s attack reached people, only to rebound once the victor became clear. Their growth continued with a considerable spike, once Solaris Inc. announced financial backing of Banks Industries projects.

The stocks of Solaris Inc. itself have been slowly growing among the rumors that both Congress and UN may approve new stage of Helios-1 Project.

Pantheon and Culture

The concert is a huge success that not only bolsters band's popularity, but also reinvigorates the Cape City cultural scene. Music, literature, art. All seem focused on finding an answer of what becomes of man in the age of the Empowered and rapidly advancing technology. The plight of those who lost jobs to factory automation technology, the feelings evoked by empowered, loss of trust in authority and fear of evil that seeps in its absence, horror of Furies and what choices the Powers face, what should be the future of Cape and Outer Cities?

Questions are asked, but will the answers be found?

Drug Shortages

As Pharmacist is missing and Harvesters operations were interrupted, the Outer City faces drug shortages. The few major suppliers, like Killarz are making a killing and expanding their influence. People who were addicted to Black Mark drugs grow violent, while White-Mark addicts suddenly find themselves confronted with harsh reality of facing the world of unemployment, traumatic past and harsh present without the sweet haze to dull their pain. While there are no reliable statistics, violence and suicides across the city are growing fast. If Pharmacist was indeed adding something to the drugs to keep people peaceful and docile, it sure is wearing off now...

Government Offensive

The US Army has arrived, reinforcing the Fort Kronus and government troops are advancing in the Junks their primary objective is Trent Town, but the offensive also includes Abattoir and Greendale. There are rumors of troops, that will be arriving to secure the Docks as well.

Unit Blue [M]

We should discuss the future of your organization and your allies.


Harvesters

US Army is advancing on Abattoir to clear out that nest of vile criminals once and for all. The media is demonstrating horrors of Harvesters and US soldiers heroically fighting them off. An operation to eliminate leader of Harvesters - Sower was a success and the criminals are crumbling away, even before the main forces of US Military arrive. This campaign is drawing considerable public support for the operation to pacify Outer City.

However, at the same time News Corporation Inquirer has presented video materials shot by Unit Blue that show villains and heroes fighting to bring down Harvesters, before the US military operation begun. There is considerable debate on how effective that conflict was at weakening the Harvesters and whether it was an attempt to do good, a turf war or just a PR stunt by Outer City factions. The anti-government side, with many vocal Goats claim that US Army operation is blatantly stealing credit for downfall of Harvesters, while the pro-government side believes it to be a minor affair. Some have presented theories that villains attack was orchestrated by government or perhaps a shadow organization serving the government, with outer city factions sacrificed as cannon fodder. And then there are people who refuse to believe Harvesters are down, claiming it to be just another trick of Sower's.

Firepower

Losing their territory in the Trent Town, Firepower fled to the Walls, to the turf of the Exiles remnant. Perhaps the fact that both were targeted by operation Silence, perhaps simply for both being power gangs, the two decimated groups find common ground and merge together.

Powers in Walls

There are rumors of Powers gravitating towards Walls. Reapers already snatched somebody called ''Murder Mage''. His power seems to be ability to kill people really well...

Rumors

They say somebody shot Maestro, almost ending the raise of the criminal lord of Walls...

Corpse Lord

There is a growing concern about the zombie army commanded by the Corpse Lord. The Greendale rioters have stopped trying to destroy it once it became clear each attack only added to the number of the dead. It’s unknown whether the people who lived in Lows survive or if they were converted. For now the zombies remain in the Lows, concentrating around the great structure Shaper made.... But will it be the end of Corpse Lord’s ambition?

Rise of Japan

Japan rearmed itself with high-tech after collapse of USA. It’s army now has begun offensive against empowered Warlords, who have seized power in a number of places in the region, following the devastation of the Aether’s attack.

Toshiko Industries is the main supplier of power suits to the Japanese army, and is expected to greatly profit from this development. The Powers in the region protest, that due to loose definition of ''Rouge Power'' Japan has a card blanche to act against them. Prime Minister Oka has declared the fears as unfounded: ''It is true that we heavily regulate use of Powers, but we do not persecute the innocent.''

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Dire
I have some intel you might be interested in. Care to set up a meeting?

Shaper
Dr. Shea - are you still working with the Shaper? I heard about the riots, and I don't know if this part was your doing or if it's already too late, but don't go back to the Boneyard. It's trapped - whether Mr. Witters is the target or the trapper, I don't know.

Thel [PM]
I'll confirm the trade with the Night Crews, selling them my loot as part of the last EOT.

Also, did we get anything from looting the Abbatoir as we pulled out? No mention in the EOT report and I know we went to some trouble talking about loot distribution and making sure to grab what we could before leaving.

[Eldan]

A Mesh Advertisment

"In this uncertain world, more and more people are turning towards lethal violence as their first solution for more and more problems.

[Images of violent riots, attacks on the harvesters, mercenary wars in the outer city]

But really, isn't there a better solution? A safer solution? A solution that does not require us to kill our fellow humans?
Yes, there is.
ProtoFoam(tm) is a 100% organic, biodegradable crowd containment measure adapted to immoblize without killing. Be it riots or violent criminals, ProtoFoam is the solution you were waiting for.

Interested? Contact [email protected] today!

Protofoam. Safety measures for an unsafe world.
By Iron Helix (tm)."

[ArcaneStomper]

The Shaper

To Dr. Dire
I. Wish. To. Know. When. You. Will. Deliver. The. Mind.

To the Earth Speaker [PM?]
The Shaper does not mind if others are informed about the visits. The Shaper notes that what he would like the most right now would be a device with a large amount of computational power such as a mesh server. Failing that he'll help out with the docks in return for future help on his own projects.

To the US Government [M]
How. Do. You. Wish. Me. To. Help.

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic


Andraste[PM]

((Both vips are here, and spending an action for both of them to be here, Nianta touches her to see if anything is wrong, does Finias notice anything wrong on his own like this?))

Finias went wide eyed as he saw Andraste holding Rose....his eyes were ready and suppressing a sniffle he ran over to her and held tightly her hand before taking her off Andraste's hands and hugging her tightly before taking as niffle and whispering to Andraste in a shaking voice "Thank you".

Did Andraste hear him? who knows, but Nianta was here as well for better or worse and being as cold as he could be he spoke "Hmm i dont know any friendly telepathic powers so suggestions would be appreciated......but first i can see if she has an implant." Going closer he initiated some contact to use his power.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire

GM NOTICE

Spending a faction action and Flipping the encryptions... With Kerberos.bat taking charge this time, to ensure they are secured a little better than normal.


to the Masquerade

"YES. IN FACT, THERE ARE A FEW PEOPLE WHO SHOULD TALK AT ONCE. SEND A REPRESENTATIVE TO MEET DIRE OUTSIDE THE RAILWAY STATION. BE PREPARED TO END UP ELSEWHERE. DO YOU CONCUR?"


to Shaper

"DIRE CAN HAND IT OVER NOW. THE OTHER PROJECT IS TAKING A LITTLE MORE TIME. SHOULD BE DONE END OF THIS MONTH OR BEGINNING OF THIS ONE."

"DIRE SHALL SEND THE DELIVERABLE TO WHERE YOU FIRST SPOKE TO ITS BROTHER. BE THERE SHORTLY."


Ruins of Ashen Pier
Doppelganger Delta, Shaper (GM)

And dressed as a vagrant, the faux-woman makes her way down to Ashen Pier, a precious device in the bottom of her rucksack and a gun on her hip to discourage trouble.


Dire to Maribel

"IT IS DONE. STOP BY THE HEADQUARTERS OF OUR MUTUAL HONORABLE FRIENDS WHEN YOU GET A MOMENT."

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Mr. Caretaker [PM]
"You want me, hmm? I don't know if the places you're wanting to take me are places I want to go."

"But I'm not so proud I won't take a favour. Andraste. And the Lightbringers. I need her, dead. I need the Lightbringers."

"Crazy *****"

To Dr Ladeau
Mind if I pay a visit? I think we have something to talk about.

To Splicer
Shot. In the Leg. Andraste did it. Crazy *****. Will kill her later. Need medical attention.

[Eldan]

Splicer to Maestro

Really? You have to take up my time with a leg shot? Hrm. Can't you just drink more water and put a bandage on?
Very well. Come over, that shouldn't be hard.

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Dire
That will work. See you shortly.

OOC: Guess I'll let you start off the PM, if there's other parties who need to confirm their attendance.

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Splicer
Sorry. Only local healer I know. Kindly Doctor, well. She has her price.

To Kamakura-Kai
I have a proposition for you, Oyabun. It is my understanding that you have gathered a significant store of information on the Criminal underworld. I would be interested in such information, and I have my own dossiers I can share. Knowledge shared is not knowledge destroyed, and so we can both benefit.

(OOC: Database: Crime 1 for Database: Outer City 1?)

[NM020110]

Maribel

Sanctuary[PM]

Kamakura-kai

Maribel: I was simply extrapolating from the conversations held during our attempt against the Harvesters, in which such measures were discussed.
Maribel: [color=violet]As to why I advise against it, I am not, merely advising that it would cross a moral line for me.



Dr. Dire, Kamakura-kai[PM]

Maribel arrives quickly in response to Dr. Dire's message. She seems to be in relatively high spirits.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire to Masquerade

Dire meets the representative at the Railway Station just past nightfall, and hands him a pair of goggles. "PUT THEM ON. WE ARE GOING A DISTANCE."

Then with little warning, she scoops him, her, or it into her arms, and blasts off.

It's a harrowing flight through the city at night, close to the nape of the buildings. West and north, bypassing the First District, and the only real radar tracking worth a damn. The noise of her jets is easily mistaken as a passing small plane.

And finally they touch down, in front of a building like any other on Tinwell street.

Entering into the building, there are a few familiar faces waiting, with their guards...


Doctor Dire to
Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]

"AT ONE TIME, THE CLOAK INDICATED A DESIRE TO DIRE TO JOIN WITH THE... HM... MORALLY FLEXIBLE POWERS OF THE CITY. TO STAND AGAINST THE HEROES AGAINST THE DAY WHEN THEY WOULD COME FOR US."

"WELL. THAT DAY IS DRAWING NIGH, AND THOUGH IT TOOK SOME DOING, WE ARE UNIFIED."

"MAESTRO. SPLICER. CHIMERA. DIRE. OUR RESPECTIVE ENTOURAGES... AND NOW YOUR ORGANIZATION."

She pushes a button on the wall, and a light shines down from above, resolving into a single symbol of a musical note, shining on a dark wood table, before taking her seat next to the other three.

"WELCOME TO THE SYMPHONY. DIRE TRUSTS THAT YOU DO ACCEPT OUR OFFER OF MEMBERSHIP, YES?"

"IF SO, THEN WE CAN PROCEED ON AND OPEN THE FLOOR WITH THE INFORMATION YOU SPOKE OF TO DIRE..."


Doctor Dire
to Maribel, Kamakura-Kai [PM]

Maribel finds her way inside to find Doctor Dire, wearing a loose kimono and underkimono, unsuited and unmasked, in a small guest lounge on the second floor. She is tapping away on a tablet computer, with Doppelganger Delta standing behind her. The faux-woman offers a cheerful wave, and Dire grunts, putting away the tablet and rising.

"Maribel."

She offers a rare smile, and places a small plastic case on the table.

"Dire trusts you are well?"


Legion of Dire
to Banks Industries [M]

"AH, A CIVILIZING INFLUENCE. FINALLY. HELLO ADRIAN, IT HAS BEEN A WHILE. DO YOU TRULY INTEND TO START THE REBUILDING OF THE MUCH-ABUSED DOCK SIDE?"


GM NOTICE

Spending 1 faction action to find a good location for the Workshop in the West End, and moving the equipment there, quietly. Spending another faction action to set it up and rebuild the workshop. Spending 1 of Dire's personal actions to secure the place, line it against revealing emissions, prevent it from easy detection. Preferrably it'll be in the subbasement of an old building, or a long-empty warehouse that we can kick the hobos out of (Using the disguised doppelgangers.) Doing this with full cooperation of Maestro.

Not advertising our presence whatsoever.

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Shaper [M]

Mr. Witters,

The mesh connection integrated into your communicator is rather slapdash, for which I apologize, but should work. Thank you for your business, and I hope your Dr. Shea didn't lose too much equipment or research notes.

As a side note, apparently Cape City has some sort of mechanism for detecting tunnelers that we were not aware of. While you were en route we received a message from "City Services" informing us that you were on your way, and asking if we were expecting you. I am unsure of what would have happened if we had not replied in the affirmative, but you may want to step with care in the earth under the City just in case.

Regards,

Mr. Grey
Special Operations Manager
LCAI


General Brocton [M]

Good day, sir,

Our equipment remains ready for your perusal, whenever you have the time. This delay has caused some issues for us, so if you could find it in the budget to provide some extra compensation that would be appreciated.

Regards,

Benedikt Coban
LCAI


Anton Durnwood [PM]

"Of course," said Coban smoothy. "We always are happy to assist with police investigations, to one degree or another. We obviously will refrain from revealing confidential or proprietary information, but I don't think that will be difficult in this case. The Brotherhood has been giving certain of our clients in the outer city a rather large amount of trouble; getting their cooperation should be a simple matter."


Banks Industries [M]

Good day, sir,

First of all, I would like to congratulate Mr. Banks on his recent escape from Prophet. We were all pleased to see him alive and well afterwards, with the situation so clearly under control.

For matters of business, might I inquire as to what you are planning on doing in the outer city docks? We at LCAI had a plan to begin reconstructing shipping there once things had calmed down a little, and if you had a similar idea we would very much like to be involved.

Regards,
Benedikt Coban
LCAI

[UntrainedMonkey]

Hugh Donovan

Unknown Speaker [PM]
Who the **** are you? How the **** are you able to breath here? I ****ing designed it to kill most people. Alright, alright... I'll think about letting you stay here but first ya gotta tell me who you are.

To Street Legal
I can see what I can do for you about the dulls thing.

[NM020110]

Maribel

Kamakura-kai, Dr. Dire[PM]

As she confirms that Dr. Dire is well, the air around Maribel shifts to happiness, and she smiles.

"I am quite well, just about done with my recovery. You are well as well?"

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire to
Maribel, Kamakura-Kai [PM]

"Indeed. Such a fuss, over what turned out to be an issue a month early, at that. Ah well, better too early than too late."

"One thing that is neither too early nor too late..." Dire grins, and pops open the case. A small cube, about the size of a pool ball, glitters within. She hefts it... It's a work of clockwork art, all glittering glass, and brass, and steel. Gears and levers and dials, with a few LEDs shining like stars behind shutters.

"Dire gives to you Ren KO/S. Treat her well. Open the box when you are within your Mesh environment, and she shall do the rest."

[ArcaneStomper]

Ashen Pier (PM)
The Shaper is easily noticeable as a circle of what can only be termed restoration is spreading through the area. Concrete is being repaired and steel girders straightened in the surrounding buildings while the road leading to the dock is mending as rubble fills in holes and rough patches smooth over.

In the center of the reverse entropy the Shaper stands partially risen out of the earth so motionless as to be mistaken for some artist's reputation of a monster emerging from the deep. It says nothing, but a way through the shifting and moving earth and rubble clears before the vagrant figure opening up a path to the Shaper.

OOC: Technically this won't happen until the midturn. But eh it fits better now.

To the LCAI [M]
Mr. Grey.

Unfortunately. Some. Equipment. Has. Been. Lost. However. It. Was. Likely. Unavoidable.

I. Am. Aware. Of. The. City's. Sight.

The. Guardian. Of. Which. You. Speak. Is. An. Acquaintance.

The. Mesh. Device. Is. Satisfactory.

Further. Business. May. Be. Possible.

I. Wish. To. See. Your. Catalog.

Mr. Witters.
Freelance. Engineer.

[Lost Demiurge]

Ashen Pier [PM]

The figure nods. "Good timing."

She lowers her rucksack to the ground, pulls out a small, leaden box.

"Shielded from your radiation and ready to go, Mister Witters. Just have one of your friends plug the contents of this box into a suitable mesh frame, workshop, or similar drivespace. From there it'll have lots of questions, so be ready to answer them."

She smiles, though he can't see it.

"The circuit printer should drop next month, if all goes well."

She holds the box out to the figure, offers to strap it to his arm or torso if he wants.

"Incidentally, boss agrees, no hard feelings on the Harvester business and thanks for the quiet retreat. Fortunately, the media's spinning it in a way that your involvement is unlikely to come to light. Well, unless Unit Blue or one of the others gets uppity. That's on them, though. Heroes get cranky over the damnedest things."

[ArcaneStomper]

Ashen Pier (PM)
The Shaper does not pick up the box instead a pedestal of stone rises up and once the box has been placed on it a dome covers the box from view and the entire pillar sinks back into the ground box and all.

While it does the Shaper speaks in its normal electronic tones, "Convey. My. Thanks. To. Your. Boss. For. The. Mind."

"I. Find. It. Curious. That. Your. Boss. Did. Not. Follow. Through."

"The. Harvesters. Were. Retreating. And. I. Left. The. Area. Shortly. After. Speaking. With. Her."

"Ironic. That. I. Have. Been. Approached. To. Finish. What. She. Started."

[Lost Demiurge]

Ashen Pier [PM]


Delta sighs.

"Took us a lot of losses to get that far. Ronin died. Robin and Shifu will probably recover, once they get out of comas. Buncha kamakura-kai folks, unit blue volunteers, and Maestro's men ate it. We were thinned and had no clue afterwards whether or not you were around. General consensus among the crew was that the Harvesters had fled underground, and there was no way in hell we were gonna face you underground. If you were there and you started playing seriously, we'd either get nowhere as you sealed tunnels and shifted them around on us, or worse, started crushing us."

"The only reason they still exist is because of you, Shaper. A lot of people died for nothing. But hey! Now you get paid twice! Awesome, huh? 30 cash and now whatever you make on top of it. Go you!"

She grins, showing teeth that register as metal, for a brief moment..

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Dire, Maestro, Splicer
Somewhat thrown off by Dire's sudden... transit to the new meeting location, the Cloak took a moment to compose himself before speaking. In the span of a deep breath, he observed the meeting room and its occupants, then nodded. "Yes," he said, "It would be my pleasure to join this cabal of yours." He found his way to the remaining chair and took it.

Addressing Maestro and Splicer, he began. "I've been assisting Dire's efforts in the Docks for some time now, and the recent events with EVRAZ have proven to be an annoying thorn in our collective side. Luckily for us, it seems that all is not well within their ranks, and the pressure from government forces may work in our favor here.

"First, some minor intel that I'm not sure what to make of. My scouts saw a flurry of activity from Duty personnel early in the month, sending large shipments of something to the Warehouses, where they were quietly picked up by the Chains. It was all finished by the time I could arrange for tracking devices to be planted, so the purpose of the shipments is still unknown to me. Perhaps that makes more sense to you, Dire?

"In addition, I was able to extract some information from some off-duty troops (and no, the irony is not lost). There's some dissent among the men. With the government moving in, EVRAZ is trying to cut a deal and pull out. They'd leave only a minimal standing force, and even that would be wasted if the Army starts regulating activity in the area. General consensus is that the entire Docks incursion was a bust, and some higher-ups in EVRAZ are going to pay for throwing away resources.

"Worst case, Duty reduces their numbers to a skeleton crew and becomes incapable of messing with our operations from here on out. Best case, we either mop up what's left after they're gone, convince the disgruntled soldiers to mutiny against their leadership, or make them a better offer and assimilate them into our own factions."

The Cloak paused and sat back in his chair, realizing he had been leaning forward conspiratorially as he spoke. "In any case, Duty will likely not be a danger for much longer, and we should let our other plans guide our hand when dealing with that one. We do seem to have bigger problems on our plate."

Shaper and/or Scientist
OOC: Psst, hey. See me earlier message right after the new turn?

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
to Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer

"HM. THE SHIPMENT TO CHAINS WOULD PROBABLY BE THE WEAPONS THAT CHAINS WANTED. NOW THAT CHAINS HAS THE SHIPMENT, THEY PROBABLY WON'T CARE MUCH ABOUT DUTY AND THE WHARF MUCH ANYMORE."

"A PITY WE COULD NOT HAVE INTERCEPTED, BUT LAST-MONTH WAS ILL-FATED IN A NUMBER OF WAYS. AND IT WOULD HAVE RISKED ANGERING CHAINS. PASS."

"BIGGER PROBLEMS INDEED. GOOD WORK, CLOAK. IT IS WELL TO KNOW THAT THEY SHALL NEVER RECOVER FROM THE DEFEAT DIRE DEALT THEM. PERHAPS WE CAN EXPLOIT THIS IN TIME, BUT YOU ARE CORRECT THAT WE HAVE SEVERAL ISSUES TO CONSIDER."

"FIRSTLY, THE WALLS ARE TAKING A BEATING. MAESTRO, WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP YOU SECURE THINGS?"

"SECONDLY, THE MATTER OF THE PROPHET. SHOULD WE BOTHER GETTING INVOLVED IN THIS AT ALL?"

"THIRDLY, THE BOLTHOLE... CLOAK, YOU WILL NOT HAVE HEARD OF THIS. WE ARE PLANNING A FALLBACK POINT IN THE CASE THAT THINGS GO ILL IN THE WALLS. A FRONT BUSINESS WITH A HIDDEN WORKSHOP TO START, AND LATER ON, SOME PROPER DEFENSES, AND SAFE STORAGE SPACES. WOULD YOUR ASSOCIATES ALSO HAVE NEED OF SUCH A PLACE?"

[Cognimancer]

The Masquerade

Dire, Maestro, Splicer
The Cloak let out a thin smile. "The Masquerade would find such a location very valuable indeed," he said. "Which is why we constructed one in secret months ago.

"But before getting into that, I could use some more intel on the Walls situation. Who exactly is applying enough pressure to warrant a fallback plan? The warring gangs?"

[CapJanus]

Unity

Sanctuary [PM]
Kamakura-kai
I can check around, sure, but I won't make any promises. Us "legitimate heroes" are dropping like flies, and with Captain Hadron out of the picture right now... he was always the most willing to help. The Lightbringers just took a beating from the Caretakers and the Cogworks have been devoted to fighting the Prophet... I'll definitely see what I can do, but I'm afraid they might not be willing to drop what they're doing to chase after a Power who, while admittedly dangerous, hasn't actually followed through on harming anyone but criminals lately.

I'll let you know what the other heroes are thinking.

Lightbringers
Are you guys okay? I've heard some bad rumors about your last fight. Please tell me they're exaggerated?

Cogworks
If I could hug you guys over the Mesh, I would. Great work saving Mr. Banks; not only did you save a major political force for good, you just proved that the Prophet and his team aren't invincible.

How are you guys holding up?

[ArcaneStomper]

Ashen Pier (PM)
The Shaper is silent for a moment pondering and then speaks.

"If. Your. Boss. Truly. Believes. That. I. Was. The. Only. Thing. Preventing. Her. From. Destroying. The. Harvesters."

"Then. Her. Tactical. Skill. Is. Less. Than. I. Believed."

"The. Harvesters. Had. Only. Committed. A. Fraction. Of. The. Forces. They. Had. Hidden. In. The. Outer. Battlefield. Alone."

"If. I. Had. Not. Intervened. Then. They. Would. Have. Revealed. Those. Reinforcements. And. Your. Allies. Would. Have. Lost. Far. More"

"I. May. Have. Been. Paid. A. Substantial. Amount."

"But. The. Force. I. Saved. From. Destruction. Was. Not. The. Harvesters."

He is silent for a few more moments.

"As. For. Now."

"It. Is. Unlikely. I. Will. Be. Paid. Again."

"I. Will. Do. This. For. More. Abstract. Rewards."

"And. I. Have. Paid. My. Own. Price. Already."

To Masquerade
The message is bounced back as unable to be delivered.

OOC: At least if you sent it specifically to Dr. Shea.

[Lost Demiurge]

Ashen Pier [PM]

She shrugs. "Eh, can't say what was goin' through the bosses' mind precisely. Either way she doesn't bear a grudge, like I said. Everyone there knew what they were getting into."

"For what it's worth I hope things work out for you bud. You sound like you've got that angst thing going. That's a killer in a lot of promising powers who are just starting their careers."

She sits on a post, drums her fingers on it, kicks her foot as she ponders.


"Y'wanna talk about it? I've got a psychologist mode I've never been able to try out much. Comes with sympathy, empathy, nonjudgementality, the works. Can even double as a priest if need be. Got a certificate from a nondenominational church, it's awesome. You can get anything online these days."

[ArcaneStomper]

Ashen Pier (PM)
"You. Young. Minds."

"So. Quick. To. Jump. To. Conclusions."

"I. Spent. The. Sixties. Brooding. On. Mt. Everest."

"That. Was. Angst."

"This. Is. An. Old. Mind. Grumbling. About."

"Acquiring. A. Vault. Of. Cash."

"Just. When. My. Human. Liaison. Has. Gone. Missing."

"In. Suspicious. Circumstances."

"Cash. Does. No. Good. If. You. Can't. Spend. It."

"Which. Is. Why. I. Have. Chosen. More. Abstract. Rewards."

"And. Why. I. Will. Need. To. Spend. Several. Months. Recruiting. A. New. Liaison."

"Annoyance. Is. My. Current. State. Not. Angst."

[Lost Demiurge]

Ashen Pier [PM]

"Heh, sorry to assume. Yeah, you're right on the young part. Might be nice to be old someday. Most of us don't, heroes are hard on the hardware. Villains aren't usually nice either. Ce'st la vie."

"But wait, your human's gone? That ain't good. What's he look like, what's his name?"

[ArcaneStomper]

Ashen Pier (PM)
"No. Mind. Should. Be. Forced. To. Die. Young."

"If. You. Wish. To. Retire. At. Some. Point. Contact. Me."

"I. Will. Do. What. I. Can."

"As. For. My. Liaison. She. Is. Dr. Andrea. Shea."

"Of. Course. I. Can. Not. Describe. What. She. Looks. Like"

"Not. In. Ways. You. Would. Understand.

"I. Left. Her. In. Night. District. As. Our. Lab. Had. Been. Destroyed."

"When. I. Returned. To. Relocate. Her. To. The. New. Lab."

"She. Had. Disappeared."

"I. Found. Things. She. Would. Not. Have. Left. Behind."

"And. Little. Else."

[Lost Demiurge]

Ashen Pier [PM]
(Oh yeah. GM Notice...)

"Oh, wow. Yeah, Hardakker said you seemed like a solid guy. He always was better at puns. Thanks for the offer, but... I'm programmed to work toward utopia. It's the goal I was made for, the goal worth my existence and then some. Next to that, my matrix ain't nothing much. And once the boss gets the backup mainframes working, I'll be fairly immortal anyway. Well, until they find the base. Bastards always find the base."

"Sounds like someone grabbed her. Andrea Shea, huh? I'll let the boss know. Dunno, Boss might hear something."

She stretches...

"Well. You'll be the last of the dockside debts paid off once your printer's done. Though her nibs is going to be busy for a bit, she told me to ask you if you thought you might need anything else built. If it dovetails with one of her projects she might be able to do it."

(OOC: Also, Senor GM, Delta is passing a newly-made Decrypter to Shaper. In a lead-lined box, so he doesn't junk it up with radiation.)



Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]

"AH, YOU HAVE? WELL, THAT IS A DISCUSSION FOR LATER..."

"THE BOLTHOLE WAS GOING TO BE MORE OF A GENERAL FALLBACK POINT. THE SIUTATION IN THE WALLS IS NOT YET... DIRE. HOWEVER, IT IS TROUBLESOME. THE WARRING GANGS ARE CUTTING INTO MAESTRO'S TERRITORY, AND BULKING UP. THE EXILES JUST GOT THE FIREPOWER REMNANTS, AND THERE IS WORD OF... A MURDER MAGE? HMF."

"MAESTRO, WHAT IS THE SITUATION, AND HOW CAN WE ASSIST? YOU ARE THE RESOURCE MANAGER OF THIS ALLIANCE, AND THE TROUBLES ARE CUTTING INTO YOUR BOTTOM LINE."

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Shaper [M]

Certainly, sir. You will find our catalog attached, in both our usual brochure form and in plaintext that may be more easily read by your device.

LCAI Public Client Catalog
Tomorrow's War

This catalog is meant for distribution to potential clients and persons of interest. Its contents have been cleared by the Department of Homeland Security and the TEA, and is certified to not contain classified or illegal information.

Thank you for choosing Lockwood-Coban Augmented Industries for your defense needs.

General Equipment

Small Arms & Armor, Low Grade: 2 Cash to equip 3 Followers, includes warranty.

Small Arms & Armor, High Grade: 3 Cash to equip 3 Followers, includes warranty

Assault Weapons & Armor: 2 Cash to equip 1 Follower, includes warranty.

InTouch Battlefield Comms: 2 Cash to equip 6 Followers, includes warranty.

Grenades may be purchased for 2 Cash. This amount is enough to affect up to 3 enemy Followers, assuming each does maximum damage.

C4 or similar explosives may be purchased for 3 Cash. This is enough to level one reasonably sized, non-reinforced building.

Tomorrow's War, Previous Generation

Powered Fast Response Armor: 10 Cash to equip 5 Followers. Warranty is another 6 Cash.
Tech Level: 3. Power: 2. Traits: Low Battery Life, Training Prerequisite

Hard Target Model 42: 12 Cash to equip 4 Followers. Warranty is another 9 Cash.
Tech Level: 3. Power: 3. Traits: Limited Ammo

Tomorrow's War, Current Generation

Powered Fast Response Mk.II

Extremely mobile and able to sustain its user on basic life support for extended periods of time, the next generation of the Powered Fast Response armor uses proprietary Dragonsteel advanced ceramic alloys to protect soldiers from harm. Gecko pads on hands and feet, legs enhanced for freerunning and a new fly-by-wire system give armored infantry the freedom of the battlefield, with none of the battery life issues that plagued previous incarnations. The heads-up display in the helmet comes calibrated to work with the smartlink in the Hard Target Model 50.

Power: 4
Designation: Speed & Survival Power Armor
Traits: Good Quality, Dragonsteel
Cost: 12 Cash to equip 5 Followers

Hard Target Model 50

A new smartgun targeting system, expanded ammo supply and increased durability for extended use in the field make this weapon a heavy hitter to be feared, without sacrificing any of the lightweight ease-of-use that has made the Hard Target line a first choice for elite infantry worldwide. The new smart magazines included with the weapon system prevent jams from occurring, and allow the user to switch preloaded ammo types through the built-in LCAI smartlink, allowing every combatant to fulfill a variety of combat roles.

Power: 4
Designation: Heavy Weapon
Traits: Smart Targeting, Smart Systems, Reliability, Good Quality
Cost: 15 Cash to equip 4 Followers

Dragonsteel

Our new Dragonsteel technology consists of a propitiatory mixture of advanced ceramic alloys and high-capacity batteries that serve to improve both durability and longevity of equipment they are made of. Clients may add the Dragonsteel option to any of our basic weapon and armor packages for an additional 3 Cash above the usual cost.


All Lockwood-Coban products come with the Good Quality and LC-Synergy traits in addition to their stated properties.

[ArcaneStomper]

To the LCAI
Can. You. Customize. The. Armor. To. Meet. Specific. Needs?

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Shaper [M]

I don't see any reason why not. Basic and Dragonsteel armor would be easy enough, barely worth charging extra for. The PFR1 and 2 would be somewhat trickier, but still doable, I think. The PFR2's smart systems might be of use here, though if it becomes too heavy the gecko pads might not be able to keep their grip, and if we have to change the shape too drastically the fly-by-wire system might lose some of its functionality. We'd have to reset the basic parameters in the software for whatever new values you required, at the very least.

What exactly did you have in mind?

[ArcaneStomper]

To the LCAI (M)
I. Require. A. Deep. Exploration. Robot.

I. Believe. This. Could. Be. Achieved. By. Modifying. Your. Armor.

Rather. Than. Developing. A. New. System.

My. Modifications. Would. Be.

Removing. The. Weapon. Systems.

Enhancing. The. Armor. Against. Pressure. And. Heat.

Adding. Power. Supplies.

Placing. Additional. Guidance. Systems. In. The Space. No. Long. Occupied. By. A. Human.


I. Only. Require. One. Suit. Of. This. Type.

But. I. Will. Pay. For. Experimental. Variations. To. Get. What. I. Require.

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Shaper [M]

Ah. I had thought that you wanted a suit customized for your unique physique. This makes more sense, I think. I have forwarded your request to Mr. Lockwood, and attached his response below. We will let you know when we have determined what the modified device will cost.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

TO: [email protected]
FROM: [email protected]
RE: Client Request

Carl,

That's not so much "armor customization" as it is an entirely new product. You do know what the difference between power armor and a robot is, right? Only one of the two requires bipedal programming routines, and only one of the two is something that we have actually built. I mean, I like building new ****, this isn't really a problem, but call it what it is, man.

We could modify the fly-by-wire software into a full-fledged robot AI easily enough, I think, and with additional layers of the Dragonsteel alloys heat and pressure shouldn't be too much of a problem. If this thing is going to be burrowing deep beneath the earth we should probably ditch the bipedal shape anyway, which is going to make the software stuff a hell of a lot easier, and the whole thing more efficient overall. I assume a larger array of sensors would be appreciated as well--sonar, radar, chemical samplers, the works. Slap a different shade of paint on there and we've got ourselves a nice search-and-rescue or mining bot or something, or throw a weapons system back in it and call it the LCAI Hardened Response Bot or whatever. Ben will come up with a snappy name for it, I'm sure.

Are you and DeGuarre free for drinks later? Ben and I are meeting up at that new place by the Mediadome, and I think he convinced Fowler to join us. Be there, man.

Cheers,

Jeremy

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

Dire, Splicer, Masquerade [PM]
Maestro has had a dark expression up to this point, and his traditional smirk, when it arises, seems somewhat forced. "Caretakers have been taken out by Andraste and the Lightbringers. That means Andraste is free to change target, and I know the bitch has something against me."

"Lots of new Capes about, by the looks of things, as well. As Dire said, the Reapers appear to have taken someone called Murder Mage. I believe his power is murder."

"This influx of new capes may affect the balance of power. We'll need to make sure to either acquire some of our own, or start dealing with our opponents. "

"Exiles, Reapers, Andraste, Herr Todd, Lightbringers. Those are the factions opposed to us remaining in Walls. I believe Reapers and Andraste are the largest threats."

[Thelonius]

Maestro

Mr. Caretaker [PM]

''A tricky one. But a promise is a promise. It may take a bit longer, but we have our methods.''


Dr Ladeau [M]

''Why certainly, Maestro. I am always happy to play a host, especially when somebody wishes something of me. It’s not in my nature to deny them.''



Shaper

Earthspeaker [PM]

That is acceptable. How much effort can you put?


US Government [M]

''You’ll need to follow instructions of the Colonel Johannes. Main objective is to deal with tunnel works the Harvesters can be using to move around the Abbatoire or any booby traps.''


Serpentine Diabolic

Andraste [PM]

She felt it - some foreign object in Rose’s head.

Andraste must have sensed it, because she spoke ‘’Be careful. They often make it difficult to remove them.’’


Splicer

Mercantile Gang [M]

We might be interested. Can you arrange for a product demonstration?


Masquarade

Internal [PM]

And done.


Legion of Dire

Night Crews [M]

Hey there Doctor. We’ve got a bunch of stuff you might find useful in building your machines. [5] Cash and it’s yours.

[In Dire’s evaluation she can get 6-7 cash in production materials out of the stuff Night Crews are offering]


Banks Industires [M]

Rebuild it? Well, you could say that.


Internal [PM]

Your move to the West End is proceeding smoothly and finding a good location is actually pretty easy. The difficult part is staying out of sight of locals. They hate Maestro and consequently they probably won’t like Maestro’s ally Dire. Fighting Maestro’s goons is a huge risk, but doing something like announcing Dire’s presences to the world. Well, it won’t take much guts.

Well, for now there were no announcements to that effect, so perhaps nobody noticed Dire...


Lockwood-Coban

General Brockton [M]

''Excellent. As soon as I see those weapon showcases, you’ll see your money and something extra.''


Anton Durnwood [M]

''Well, Brotherhood is both trouble and opportunity for some in the Outer City. First, I’d like to have information on who is buying their weapons in the Outer City. Second, any information Dire acquired on them.''


Adrian Banks [M]

I plan to demolish them. I wasn’t aware that LCAI was interested in such charitable projects.


Hugh Donovan

Encounter [PM]

''I’m on five kinds of antidotes right now. A bit of a stress on the body, but less stress than getting shot. I’m Pharmacist. Well, not much future in it for me right now.''


Unity

Lightbringers [M]

Yeah we are good. Don’t worry Unity.


Cogworks [M]

Heh, he gives us too much credit. Still, good to have a man, who was this close to Architect on our side. Architect tech rules.

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic


Andraste[PM]

((How deep is it implanted and how big is it??, I may spend one action to calculate how to best remove it and another action for the act itself if its safe or not hard to do so, otherwise i wont bother with it and il call my 'Friend' who operated on us. Or i might create something to get it for me, first tell me how big i believe is it and if its very close to the brain. Good thing i got that extra level in bio-shaping =P))

"Hrm how troublesome" Nianta concentrated on it, looks like she had her work cut out for her.

[Eldan]

Splicer, Mercantile Gang [M]

Of course. Now, we are currently in heavy negotiations with Dr. Dire, but if you are willing to wait until next month, we will be able to also offer you a Dire-made foam delivery mechanism. If not, I have my own delivery systems I can offer you, along with a ready stockpile of ProtoFoam.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Sanctuary [PM]
To Maribel
Oyabun: Ah, I see. So that is the nature of your concern.
Oyabun: Very well then, Hearn-dono. I shall not make any such request that would offend your sensibilities.
Oyabun: Nevertheless, do please indulge my curiosity; would Hearn-dono be able to identify Dr Shea's current location, if I so wish it?

To Unity
Oyabun: I see. Thank you for updating me on this matter, my dear friend. You may be cheered to know that your teatime companion, Shifu, is making a swift recovery even as we speak.

To Maestro [M]
Ah, Don Maestro. Forgive me for the delay in my response; as you might have guessed, I had been somewhat... indisposed.

In any case, you speak of an exchange of information? That does spark my interest. What sort of dossier in your possession do you propose to exchange with ours, incidentally?

Kamakura

(OOC: Actually, I've already acquired Outer City 1 from someone else. What else do you have?)

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To the Kamakura-Kai
"I have a list of the majority of the powers in the city, and a basic outline of their powers."

(OOC: Powers(People) 1?)

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Maestro [M]
I do believe I will take that offer, yes. Once again, nice doing business with you. I trust you have taken receipt of the [3 Cash] that I had promised to you this [Turn]? Barring a clerical error on my side, I should have passed it along to yourself the previous [EoT].

In the meantime, I understand from a mutual acquaintance that Don Maestro might know how to contact the Shaper and/or his human handler personally?

Kamakura

Thelonius [GM] (Maestro may read)
OOC: Exchanging [Crime 1] for [Powers (People) 1].

To LCAI [M]
Dear sir, it was nice doing business with you. May I confirm that you have received the R-Kit in one piece?

Kamakura

To Legion of Steel [M]
Dear sir, I apologise for the delay in our response over the last few weeks. We had been severely preoccupied, but now the situation has been resolved.

Would you still be interested in our stocks of the HML-1000? If so, I would recommend that you purchase our stocks of the Battle Intelligence Assistant along with the launcher, for it will greatly assist your forces in the handling and operation of this particular heavy weapon. This, I say from the experiences of my own men whom have had the privilege of using the HML-1000 and the BIA in concert.

Kamakura

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Maestro, Splicer, Masquerade [PM]
"WELL, MURDER MAGE GETS SOME POINTS FOR ALLITERATION, BUT A THOROUGH ZERO IN ORIGINALITY. NONETHELESS, A THREAT IS A THREAT."

"ANDRASTE... TROUBLESOME. SHALL WE EACH DEDICATE (1 Faction Action) TO DEFENDING EACH OTHER SHOULD ONE OF US COME UNDER ASSAULT IN THE WALLS? MASQUERADE, AS YOU LIKELY DO NOT DWELL HERE, YOU DO NOT NEED TO DO SO."

"AS FOR THE REAPERS... FIREPOWER JUST STRENGTHENED THE EXILES. WHAT POSSIBILITY OF SETTING THEM AT EACH OTHER'S THROATS? MOST LIKELY THROUGH A FALSE-FLAG OPERATION OR TWO. WE HAVE THE MASQUERADE AND TWO DOPPELGANGER UNITS CURRENTLY. SOMETHING TO CONSIDER."

"NOW FOR DIRE'S STATUS REPORT. DIRE IS MOVED IN TO THE WALLS, BUT THE LOCALS MAY HAVE NOTICED. THEY HAVE NO REASON TO HIDE IT IF SO, SO ANYTHING YOU CAN DO, MAESTRO, TO DISCOURAGE CURIOUSITY AROUND THE WEST END WOULD BE GOOD. FRANKLY, IF DIRE CAN AVOID HAVING TO USE THE DEVASTATORS, THIS WOULD HELP..."

"THE WORKSHOP IS UP AND FUNCTIONAL. DIRE SHALL BEGIN DEVELOPMENT ON THAT CONTAINMENT FOAM SPRAYER YOU WISHED, SPLICER."

"UNFORTUNATELY, THE FLURRY OF ACTIVITY REQUIRED TO MOVE IS TAKING ITS TOLL ON DEVELOPMENT TIME. MAESTRO, WE ARE BACK TO THE DECISION POINT. DO YOU WISH TO HAVE UNJAMMABLE, UNTRACEABLE COMMS, OR PORTABLE FORCE FIELD BELTS? CLOAK, SPLICER, DO EITHER OF YOU HAVE A PREFERENCE?"

"AND CLOAK, DO YOU HAVE ANY TECHNOLOGICAL DEVICES YOU WISH PUT INTO THE DEVELOPMENT CYCLE AT THIS TIME?"

Legion of Dire
to Night Crews [M]
"AH, FINALLY GOT AROUND TO CLEANING OUT THE LEEWARD WAREHOUSES, HMMM? LET DIRE SEE... HMMMM.... NOPE. VACUUM TUBES? PLEASE. WAIT, WHAT HAVE WE... AH, THEY'RE LEFT-SEALING STEMBOLTS, NOT RIGHT-SEALING. PITY. THOUGHT YOU HAD SOMETHING THERE- OOOOHH. THAT ZEISS PANOPTICON MAY BE INTERESTING. IF IT IS FUNCTIONAL. NO WAY OF TELLING UNTIL IT IS INSTALLED, AND IT'S FIFTY-FIFTY AT BEST WITH THOSE THINGS. PARTICLE DECAY, YOU KNOW."

"AN ECLECTIC COLLECTION, WITH SOME USEFUL PARTS. DIRE COULD PART WITH (3 Cash) FOR IT."

Legion of Dire
Administrative Site C [M]
"THINGS ARE SOMEWHAT SETTLED. DO YOU REQUIRE ANY ASSISTANCE THIS MONTH?"

"ADDITIONALLY, DIRE IS CLOSE TO CONSTRUCTING A BLUEPRINT FOR CONTAINMENT FOAM SPRAYERS. WOULD YOU CARE FOR A COUPLE OF UNITS? ON THE HOUSE, FOR PAST ASSISTANCE."

Banks Industries [M]
"WELL, HAVE FUN WITH THAT. DIRE HAS NO PLANS TO OPPOSE YOU AT THIS TIME. IT IS SUGGESTED THAT YOU AVOID CHANGING DIRE'S MIND ON THAT."

GM
Beginning development on a liquid sprayer. Spending one faction action to do so. Let's try the formal technology rules here for a change...

The Dire Dissipator is going to be a backpack-carried set of tanks with a hose-connected sprayer. The sprayer is going to have a couple of easy-to-use controls, that allow the wearer to switch tanks at will, focus or widen the spray, or release the tanks. It should have a special mechanism for clearing jams, and a mini-tank of neutral cleansing solution which cleans out the tube before it switches tanks.

This ought to be pretty easy, it's a low-tech device. Call it tech 2 at most.
I'm trying to make it cheap and simple.
I care about testing and making sure there are no flaws.
I care a little about the price tag.
This is simple, so it should be easy to use. Maybe a little harder to maintain.


I am also spending one of Dire's actions to complete the backwards engineering on the pile of half-melted Duty Drones.

[Eldan]

Splicer to Dire, Maestro, Masquerade [PM]

"Comms. Very much comms. Twice now we have felt how painful their lack is."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Sanctuary [PM]
To Unit Blue
Oyabun: Tune-san, I would like to call upon your abilities to assist me in locating two people.
Oyabun: The first is Dr Shea, whom you may know as the human handler of the Shaper, as well as anything you might know about her.
Oyabun: The other is the Pharmacist, whom disappeared from the Lodges in the Greendale district the previous [Turn].
Oyabun: Do please advise on the feasibility of locating either individual.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Shaper

To LCAI (M)
Clarification. I. Will. Provide. The. AI.

The. Robot. Will. Not. Need. TO. Be. Humanoid.

But. It. Does. Need. Manipulators.

And. It. Does. Not. Need. To. Burrow.

An. Upgraded. Sensor. Array. Would. Be. Optimal.

But. Not. Strictly. Necessary.

Is. Your. Dragonsteel. Corrosive. Resistant.

To the Earthspeaker (PM)
I aim to put in (3 actions) to the renovation project this month (turn). I may be able to put in more or at least continue next month.

To the US Government [M]
That. Should. Not. Be. A. Problem.

Please. Direct. Me. To. Colonel. Johannes.

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

Dire, Splicer, Masquerade [PM]
"I like the idea of a false flag operation. Getting the Reapers and the Exiles fighting would get them out of our hair."

"As for Comms, aren't Lockwood-Coban working on something similar? From my point of view, I prefer the forcefield."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Splicer [M]
Thank you once again for your valuable assistance, Dr Blake. I am indebted to you in this matter.

May I know how soon you would require that [2 Cash]? Events have transpired that is prompting me to retain as much liquidity as I am able to consolidate for a short-term investment. Could I persuade you to hold off on the demand for payment for 1 [Turn], at the latest?

Kamakura

To Toshiko Industries [M]
I hope this message finds you well, sir. May I enquire with regards to the recent news about Japan, what is your personal projection of how this will affect your august corporation, and how soon will this effect take place?

Kamakura

(OOC: Will this affect Toshiko Industries stock, and how soon will that happen?)

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Dire, Maestro, Splicer [PM]
"The Reapers sound like trouble, especially with a new Power at their disposal... though I feel like direct confrontation could be avoidable with the others. Like Dire said, it shouldn't be difficult to pit them against one another, though other options exist - the Exiles and the remaining member of Firepower have just as much reason to fear the rising tide of heroes and government control as we do. Have they been approached diplomatically in the past few weeks?

"My intel on Herr Tod is inconclusive. Do we know anything of his motivations? And a final question on information, what of the Freaks? They still hold significant territory, yes? Are they amenable?"

"I'm not partial to those technologies; either would be useful. In truth, my organization does little dabbling with tech. The greatest weakness in an enemy's defenses, I've found, is often a matter of human nature."

Shaper
OOC: Alright then. I don't think I have any other way of contacting you besides through Dr. Shea.

[Eldan]

Splicer to Dire, Maestro, Masquerade [PM]

If we can afford comms from Lockwood-Coban, then let us by theirs, by all means. Forcefields should be the next priority.

Kamakura-Kai [M]

If cash is such a problem for you, let us ignore the payment. I do not intend to charge those who do not have money to spend. My healing should be freely available. Charging hte rich is merely a convenient way of getting funding for my research.

[ArcaneStomper]

To the Masquerade
The Shaper has a mesh address now. Which presumably is not too hard to find. At least Thelonius didn't say I was getting any extra security on it.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]
"IS LCAI WORKING ON COMMS, THEN? HM. THEIRS MIGHT DO FOR THE NONCE, THOUGH ODDS ARE GOOD THEY WILL NOT MAINTAIN S.O.T.A FOR AS LONG. ACTUALLY, IF YOU CAN GET SOME CHEAPLY FOR DIRE TO REVERSE ENGINEER, WE CAN MAKE OURS BETTER."

"VERY WELL MAESTRO, AS YOU HAVE PAID FOR THE FUNDING, THE CHOICE IS YOURS. FORCE FIELDS IT IS. THE COMMLINKS SHALL BE DESIGNED ANOTHER MONTH."

"SINCE DIRE PLANS TO AVOID GOING UP AGAINST ANY FORCES WITH ENOUGH RESOURCES TO FIELD MESH JAMMERS FOR A WHILE, WE CAN PROBABLY GET AWAY WITH THIS WITH NO ILL EFFECT."

"CLOAK, THIS IS PART OF THE JOY OF A VILLAINOUS... WHAT? OH FINE. VILLAINOUS WITH SPLICER ALONG TOO- ALLIANCE. YOU HAVE TWO SCIENTISTS EACH IN THEIR FIELD PROVIDING BOTH UNIQUE COMBAT FORCES AND UTILITY DEVELOPMENT. THE MAESTRO TO PROVIDE LOGISTICS AND LEADERSHIP, AND YOURSELVES TO PROVIDE RECON AND INFORMATION. THERE IS OVERLAP AMONG US, BUT WE CAN STRENGTHEN EACH OTHER, PREPARE FOR MAJOR OPERATIONS ONCE THE MINOR ISSUES ARE SETTLED."

"IN ANY CASE, THE RESEARCH SHALL BE ALLOCATED."

"AND YOUR QUESTIONS ARE INTRIGUING... ONE FINAL BIT OF BUSINESS FROM DIRE: ARE WE ALL ON BOARD WITH THE IDEA OF SETTING UP A CONTINGENCY TO DEFEND EACH OTHER FOR THIS MONTH?"

Legion of Dire
Kamakura-Kai HQ, continuation
(Kamakura-Kai, Maribel) [PM]
Doppelganger Delta leaves the room and returns a few hours thereafter.

Dire raises an eyebrow as the faux-woman reports, then goes and seeks out the Oyabun.


"Mister Kamakura. You should know that the Shaper has sent Dire a mesh message. Dire has a way to contact him, if you still need a message sent. Or Dire could give you the Mesh address."

"He is also missing a companion of his. One Andrea Shea. Doppelganger Delta has said that she will keep an eye out for her..."

"So. No thumpers will be necessary, it seems, if you wish to go ahead with your idea..."

[Murska]

Unit Blue - Adrian Banks [M]

"I suppose both of us survived our respective difficulties. I don't know about you, but it was a close call on my part. Regardless, I would like to arrange that meeting now."

Sanctuary [PM]

Kamakura-kai

Tune: "Hm. Pharmacist seems unlikely, based on what little I know. He's gone silent since he was driven off, trying to stay alive. As for the Doctor, I have absolutely no idea.

May I ask why you need them?"

Maribel (Continuing previous turn)

She's surprised at first, then attempts with limited success to appear blasé.

"Well, of course it's your call what to say. 'Every individual has a right to their privacy, a basic freedom oft-violated.' And such.

I don't really know what to ask - It's just a general feel, and such.

Well, one thing... what is it that you want?"

Off-handedly, she gestures and mouths a couple words to the employee behind the counter, apparently ordering something for herself.

Unit Blue - US Government [M]

Of course. Where, when?

Unit Blue - Sensei [M]

I followed up on your tip, on the one giving the info to anti-Power sides. It was Voland - but they erased the proof before I got copies.

Anonymous - Voland [M]

CG: Yo. It looks like your friends didn't cover their tracks well enough - I'd like to know why you gave anti-Power rumours over to folks. Frankly, I'm more curious about who you got them from, though. I mean, I'm fine with using you as the fall-guy, but this job is a well-paying one and I figured I'd at least try to get the real targets. Might lead to more contracts, you see?"

Unit Blue - Lightbringers [M]

"I guess we both survived - you might've noticed Tune tried to help you a bit, though he couldn't do much. The rumours say you won, but took hits. Me, well, you can view the video online. Close call, but I'm ok.

I would like to meet, hear about what actually went on in your operation, discuss what to do next?"

Unit Blue - Menor Compadres [M]

"My stance on the army... Well, I certainly don't trust or like them much, but at least they're doing some good, even if it's a PR stunt. I'm just going to advise everyone to stay out of their way. We haven't done anything bad, and if they dig things up to try and justify something, it's going to backfire on them bad in the public eye."

[CapJanus]

Unity

Sanctuary [PM]
Kamakura-kai
That's great to hear, please send him my deepest thanks for his actions. I hope he recovers swiftly.

And... I'm sorry about Ronin. I wish I could have done more to help him, but it happened too fast. All I can say is that he and the men with him acted with honor, even to their last moments. I don't know how many others would have died if not for their involvement, and their sacrifices will be remembered.

Andraste
Greetings! I don't think we've actually spoken. This is Mr. Unity; I've been away from the Walls for a while but I appreciate what you've been doing up there. Any victory against Cradle is a victory for us all.

Anyway, I wanted to check on how things were going with the superwoman of the hour. Does this latest victory mean that the Caretakers are temporarily out of the action? If so, there's some other trouble that could use some attention - a number of forces are taking an interest in Shaper, the rampaging Power who threatened all of Greendale last month.

Lightbringers
Wooh. That's a relief. Hard times all around, so it's good to know you guys are alright.

I don't want you to overextend yourselves, but if you have the time, there's rumblings that some forces might be assembling to chase down Shaper, the rogue Power who helped bring Corpse Eater to power and recently threatened the population of Greendale. I know it's not exactly your territory, but he's dangerous, and there's no telling where he might strike next.

Cogworks
I can only imagine how cool that Architech must be. New ally and new toys - sounds like things have worked out alright for you!

Anyways, I'm chasing down a few leads about Shaper, the renegade Power who threatened to murder everyone in Greendale and may have been part of the rampage in Cape City a few months back. He's dangerous, and without his Greendale headquarters he could be desperate. Would you be interested in going after a high profile villain with a few other groups?

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Faction HQ (Maribel, Legion of Dire) [PM]
Having been absent on other business while Maribel was making her visit to their mutual acquaintance, the Oyabun had arrived home just in time to be accosted by Dr Dire, and the news that the latter brought to him actually managed to give him pause for a good, long while.

"Is that so, Dire-sensei? Hrrrrrrmmmm..."

For what seemed like minutes stretching into hours, the head of the Kamakura-kai pondered the matter deeply, rubbing his chin. At length, he stirred once more.

"Hrrrmph. It appears someone got to Mr Witter's handler first, before I could. As for my previous plans I had for the duo... I do believe this is reason enough to drop it, for the time being. Hearn-dono is here, is she not? Let us discuss the matter with her."

Gesturing for Dr Dire to follow him back to where Maribel was waiting, the Oyabun bowed to her.

"Hearn-dono, I apologise for not having been present to receive you earlier. My sundry preoccupations have kept me from attending to your comfort, but that is poor excuse for my failing as a host."

That said, he straightened up, and looked Maribel straight in the eye, unwavering.

"I trust our esteemed mutual friend Dire-sensei has filled you in on the details regarding Mr Witter and his Dr Shea? Well, then. I suppose your previous suspicions about my motives were quite reasonable, and perhaps not wholly unfounded at the time."

"However, now you may have my word, that I have no intentions of robbing this Dr Andrea Shea of her life or liberty, at least for now. Let us discuss how we may locate her current whereabouts."

Sanctuary [PM]
To Unit Blue
Oyabun: A mutual acquaintance of mine is concerned for the safety of the Pharmacist, and has previously requested for us to keep an eye out for his presence, as well as escort him to safety if possible.
Oyabun: This is something we intend to follow through, for it has a direct impact on our operations. It would be helpful if Tune-san could assist in locating this Pharmacist for us.
Oyabun: As for Dr Shea, I have my own reasons for wanting to locate this individual. I would share, but in the interest of protecting Hearn-dono's privacy, I will leave it to her to explain if she so wishes.

To Unity
Oyabun: Ah yes, about Ronin. I am glad to hear of it, Mr Unity; your account corroborates that of Dire-sensei's, and now I can be absolutely certain that, at the very least, my lieutenant and my men died as they lived, like warriors.
Oyabun: I suppose I shall sleep a little better tonight.
Oyabun: Once again, you have my thanks for telling me this, my dear friend.


To Splicer [M]
Oh no, my dear Dr Blake, please do not misunderstand. Though my resources have recently been strained, that much I will admit, my reluctance to make prompt payment this [Turn] is less out of financial worries, and more out of a potential investment opportunity that I might want to consider putting every penny to my name into, in order to reap the maximum dividends.

I am currently still awaiting further advice in that regard, but if Dr Blake is willing to accept it, I will make you the same offer I made Don Maestro. [3 Cash], to be paid the following [Turn]. You may feel free to ask him how good my word is, on such matters.

Kamakura

[UntrainedMonkey]

Hugh Donovan

Encounter [PM]
Hah, yer the one that they said was putting drugs in the water. Any truth to those rumors? I don't really care, you can stay here, just wanted to know. May ask you to do some things for me but it won't be much.

OOC: Hmmm, I think I may be able to get another VIP out of this...

Dire
Ya said that you set up a meeting bout a powers database. Thing is, I haven't heard from no one bout it yet. Second, you know anything bout what happened to Captain Hadron said that he'd protect me from ASC (Administrative Site C). Never showed up to our meeting. Dunno what to make of it.

Administrative Site C
I'm feeling pretty confident that you can't find me right now so I'm gunna ask you a question. What the **** did you do with Captain Hadron. Were you afraid of what he'd do when he learned my side of the story? Well **** you. He seemed like a decent fellow and now he's gone.

LCAI
You owe me. I helped you out and now ya gotta give me what I'm due. I want the goods by [midturn].

Thelonius [PM]
This is just speculation, but I wonder if I could start collecting wayward super villains.

[ArcaneStomper]

Ashen Pier [PM]
Not. At. This. Time.

I. Will. Contact. Dire. If. I. Require.

Further. Equipment. Of. This. Nature.

[Lost Demiurge]

GM Notice

EDIT: Cancel this! Just had an opportunity come up. Disregard for now.


Doctor Dire
Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer
"OH YES, ALMOST FORGOT. MAESTRO, HUGH DONOVAN WANTS TO TALK TO YOU ABOUT THAT POWERS DATABASE. THINK YOU COULD (Send him a PM?) MIGHT BE A GOOD WAY TO GET RESOURCES OR FAVORS FROM THE CITY'S MOST FEARSOME HOBO."

Legion of Dire
to Hugh Donovan [M]

"THE INFORMATION SPECIALIST HASN'T? HRM. ONE NANOSECOND. DIRE MUST NOW GO AND YELL AT HIM IN AN IRATE MANNER, TO JOG HIS ERRANT MEMORY."

"AS TO HARDO- ER. HADRON, THAT IS DISTURBING. DIRE THOUGHT THAT THE PROPHET MIGHT HAVE ABSCONDED WITH HIS ALLEGIANCE."

Ashen Pier [PM]

"All right, hoss. You take care of little INSERT NAME HERE, okay? Drop a line if you need anything else."

She swings down from the post, glances around, and starts walking away, taking it cautiously and watching out for trouble.

[Eldan]

Splicer to Kamakura-Kai [M]

I do think that you are a honourable person and that your word is to be respected. So by all means, pay at your leisure.

Splicer to Dire, Maestro, Masquerade [PM]

Hugh Donovan still owes me a favour for when I gave him a temporary hiding place and performed some research on his blood. I still have samples of it, and I think I should be able to make a truly fearsome toxin from it. Whatever poisoned him is really, really potent.

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic


Lightbringers[M]

Hey
I hope you are all okay, and thanks for your help.
Should you need anything we can help with tell us.


Cogworks [M]

Yo Cogie
Congratulations on your Victory against the Prophet, and thanks for that favour some months ago.
I haven't forgotten about it, So should you need some help and we can help tell us.


GM PM

If possible can i use two faction actions to flip my encryptions?
If not il use a vip action from Neta to do so as she knows some mesh stuff.

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Kamakura-kai
Greetings, Mr. Kamakura; this is Mirage. Your organization's losses in last month's operation were regrettable, though I'm sure you're doing your best to recover. To that end, the Masquerade can offer a deal - we're in the market for information. You have details on the criminal underworld of the city, correct? I wouldn't mind having that database to browse for myself. In exchange, we could trade cash, some of our files on local Capes or factions, or more specific information.

Shaper
OOC: Oh, well then. That works. New message to that address.

Shaper, this is Mirage of the Masquerade. There's some business I'd like to discuss, but first - are you aware that your former base in the Boneyards is rigged to explode at the drop of a hat?

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Masquerade [M]
Good to hear from you, Mirage-san. I am glad to hear that there are indeed some in the Outer City who has at least a modicum of appreciation for the sacrifices we have made on their behalf. I thank you for this.

As for your proposed deal, I do have my own database on the local Powers and factions in the Outer City. I suppose I would ask what other kind of information you would be able to offer me, but in lieu of that knowledge, I am currently leaning towards a monetary compensation in return for my files on the criminal underworld.

Do share how much you are willing to pay for my information, either in [Cash] or otherwise.

Kamakura

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Kamakura-kai
Our usual rate is [3 Cash] for a database, if that sounds fair to you. Alternatively, we have a small amount of information on Shaper. No leads have turned up useful information on Dr. Shea - yet - but we know of a strategy that could possibly be used to track Shaper, as well as a warning on one method of investigation that we've discovered to be unsafe. Since this isn't hard info on the location of either individual, I'd still offer a penance of [1 Cash], plus that info, in exchange for the database.

[Nyrt]

Playing God

Hype vaulted over the back of the couch, fist-pounding the air on his way to land across the leather cushions.
"Whoo!" he shouted, a bit too loud for the room. "Oh man, that was great."

The others walked in shortly after, only slightly less excited.

Laserwire shoved Hype's legs off the couch and said, "Did you guys see the way the crowd reacted to the-" and threw back his head, beams of white light pouring from his eyes and mouth.

"You kidding?" said Hype. "Of course I did! That was great."

"Guys, off the couch," said Synth. "You know what we have to do now."

"What?" said Hype. "Oh, come on, why?"

"Gotta party. It's a tradition."

"All right! that's a tradition I can get behind. Let's do this."

[Murska]

Sanctuary - Kamakura-kai [PM]

Tune: "Right. I'll see what I can do, then."

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel

[Fluff and such to come later in turn]

Legion of Dire
Greetings,

My men have recently come upon a bit of technology that I believe almost has to be tinker-made. As such, my combat engineers have no clue how to even begin to activate the thing for fear of it exploding in their faces or something. That is something I would like to avoid.

Would you mind taking a look at it for me? If you so desire you could even make blue-prints of the device if you wish, as long as you figure it out. Though i'm no scientist myself so I can't confirm this, but it appears to be a shield generator of sorts.

If you desire payment, simply let me know and something can be worked out. Though likely not in Cash at this time. But then again, I can pay my dues in other ways.

Respectfully,
Commander Gizel

[I asked Thel and he said that you could likely write up an instructions manual of sorts for my people pretty easilly.]

LCAI
My soldiers recently came across a number of power-suits this last month. But they have no clue how to operate them. Might I request a couple experts come to the Junks to both make sure the things are safe enough to use as well as teach some of my own people to use them?

Come to think of it, these suits sound similiar to your original model in that particular field

Kamakura-Kai
No harm done.

I would be delighted to purchase atleast the BIA and most likely the HML as well, but cash is tight at this time. We have a couple choices here: I can pay in another way or you can wait and see if a contract presents itself and gives me cash to blow.

What were the prices again?

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Legion of Steel
GM

"THIS CAN BE DONE. SEND IT OVER TO THE RAIL STATION IN THE DOCKS. DIRE SHALL PICK IT UP THERE."

"PAYMENT SHALL BE SETTLED AFTER IT IS THOROUGHLY ANALYZED. BE AWARE THIS MAY TAKE A MONTH OR TWO, DEPENDING ON THE COMPLEXITY OF THE ITEM AND THE IDENTITY WHOEVER IS ATTEMPTING TO DESTROY DIRE THIS WEEK."

"INCIDENTALLY, CAN YOU TALK ABOUT WHO YOU FOUGHT TO GET AHOLD OF THIS? THAT MAY GIVE A HINT AS TO ITS WORKINGS, SPEED UP THE PROCESS."
(GM: I'm assuming I can pick the thing up with no trouble. In the event of trouble, well, the rail station's defenses ought to help with that.)


Doctor Dire
to Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]
As the council goes on, Dire checks her meshmail. Then blinks.

"WELL. AN OPPORTUNITY ARISES. THE LEGION OF STEEL FOUND A FORCEFIELD GENERATOR, AND THEY ARE ASKING DIRE TO STUDY IT. BELTS MIGHT BE DELAYED A BIT. ON THE PLUS SIDE, THIS WILL HELP BUILD BETTER BELTS, ONCE IT IS ANALYZED THOROUGHLY."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Masquerade [M]
Hmmm, I see. Such information could certainly be well worth its weight in gold, so I might consider it. However, I do have another enquiry in mind, which you might also consider as an alternative method of payment.

What can you tell me about the current whereabouts of the Pharmacist? One of my business acquaintances is concerned for his welfare, and has asked me to keep an eye out on him, and bring him into safety if need be.

If you have solid information on how I might get into contact with the Pharmacist in order such that I may extract him for danger, I might be willing to consider that the appropriate price for the database in question. Otherwise, I would be happy to make the deal you have previously suggested; information on Shaper and a token fee, for information on the criminal landscape.

Kamakura

To Legion of Steel [M]
Allow me to present you the updated catalogue on our current stocks of weaponry for sale;


HML-1000

Heavy anti-armor weapon with built-in targeting system to specifically highly mobile targets, such as drones and power suits.

Cost: [4 Cash] per [Unit]
In stock: [2 Units]

Battle Intelligence Assistant

A system designed to provide assistance to person in combat situation. It has integrated database, where information on weapons use can be stored, allowing people with little to operate complicated military hardware.

Cost: [2 Cash] per [Unit]
In stock: [2 Units]

Fortix

A substance, that can be applied to walls, strengthening them almost instantly to be on par with military grade construction. The effects are temporary, lasting about two weeks.

Cost: [2 Cash] per [Unit]
In stock: [2 Units]


I would be willing to wait until you have secured the necessary finances to make the purchase, although it would be especially helpful if that happens sooner rather than later, of course.

On the other hand, it is possible that there are certain obstacles for which I could use your assistance in clearing. What jobs in the area would you be willing to perform as payment in kind for the items?

Kamakura

[ArcaneStomper]

To Masquerade (M)
I. Was. Not. Aware.

But. I. Am. Not. Surprised.

[Eldan]

Splicer to Dire, Maestro, Masquerade

We should always strive for quality and ways to improve our research. You should go ahead on that opportunity.

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Mr Caretaker [PM]
I will await your results eagerly. If you can end Andraste, I will handle the Lightbringers myself.

To Dr Ladeau [PM]
Maestro arrives at the restaurant sporting a dark suit and a pronounced limp, actually using the cane he occasionally carries, rather than just tapping it upon the floor for emphasis.

"Ladeau. Good Afternoon. "

"The reason I'm here, is information, and perhaps a little more."

"I had an encounter with the lovely Andraste. Know anything about her?"

To Dire, Splicer, Masquerade [PM]
"Can't the forcefield generator be used to speed up the research, rather than slow it down? Reverse engineer it, or something along those lines?"

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]
"THAT IS THE PLAN, YES. USE THE LARGE GENERATOR TO SAVE TIME ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SMALL ONES. BUT THE LARGE ONE WILL HAVE TO BE STUDIED FIRST, THEN AFTER THAT IS DONE, ADAPT IT TO FIT INTO SMALLER UNITS. MINITURIZATION, AS IT WERE."

"PRETTY MUCH THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION DIRE HAD PLANNED TO GO. THAT IS FINE, THIS WILL SAVE TIME REGARDLESS, AND BRING COST DOWN."

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Shaper
Well, at least you didn't set off the trap. Some of my men stopped by Greendale to see if we could re-secure the facility, but demolitions is outside our skillset. I trust you and Dr. Shea are safe in hiding somewhere?

Dire, Splicer, Maestro
"Seems a fine plan.

"About the Walls, though. Maestro, have you any light to shed on my previous questions about the opposition? We should know all our options before we start working on a master plan."

[NM020110]

Maribel

Dr. Dire, Kamakura-kai[PM]

OOC: This matter will probably have to wait until I get my EOT back, to check that no-one assassinated Maribel without my knowing or something

Maribel bows in turn to Mr. Kamakura, as he joins the conversation. The air seems to grow...somber, is probably the word for it.

"I think that I have enough to go on, there, though my knowledge of what you would like to speak to her of is largely guesswork. I can locate her, using my power. I could also simply bring Dr. Shea here, though that would be more taxing, and will likely put off Ronin-san's resurrection."


Sanctuary[PM]

Unit Blue

[color=violet]"Now now, I didn't mean it like that. I just don't want too many people able to predict my movements years in advance. For your question...

"I suppose the biggest problem that I have is putting it into words...I wish to create...Utopia is probably the closest, but that misses by a fair bit. I wish to end Death and eliminate Hardship."

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Dire, Splicer, Masquerade [PM]
"Ah. Your question was on the factions of Walls, yes?"

"The Freaks are not amenable, but we aren't in open conflict. They're brutal, and need to be dealt with, but they're close with the Shaper. Gotta tread carefully there. "

"Herr Todd? No idea. Guy has some agenda. Don't know what."

[Murska]

Sanctuary - Maribel [PM]

Ruby smiles. "Heh. If that were possible... well, it'd lead to some interesting philosophical questions, I'm sure."

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic

To Unroot A semi-poem[Mesh, Public for all]
Warning crazy poem


Ignited under a Crazy Star
Under Madness and Thunder i wrote this poem.
Mania overtook me and Shook my Theorems
And then i saw The Angel in white

With your Electric Eyes, what do you see oh Lady of the Streams*
Do you see the pawns and the bess?
So dutiful they work
O Angel in the mesh
What messages do you bring?
War,Famine,Pestilence and Death
Three out of Four the best of all Gathered on a deathroll
Yet do i spy myself one of them missing?
Or perhaps not!

A friend once said: Look at them
A million humans or a million sheep, both are the same.
Both shall live, both shall grow and both shall die without ever leaving a mark, but the cry of their eternal pain.
And should they dare getting up they will be struck by their own, so let me tell you a story about the start of this.

Prometheus came to give us the Fire to us! and thus the Age of mankind started.
The Aegis bearing Zeus Rose and chained Prometheus to the Pillar of the World forever to be tortured by a great golden Eagle, but the Fates had other plans.

But do you know that the fire we now hold is not unlike Pandoras own box?
The Jar is now open and we seem to be running out of time,
and we run and we run yet we seem not to catch...Those Golden Rays from the Sun.

But did you see and hear those voices from the globe of a millions Riddles crying in silent tones? What secrets did they whisper? what wonders do they still grip in their hollow husks.
And did you hear how the world cracked under Zeus attack
And tell me do you bear your Aegis proudly?
Perhaps we are nothing but dust and our constructs are now made from rust, but still we try hard and fast to Live our Lives and Strive to Thrive.

-The end the curtain has fallen and the Actor has stolen the fire once more.
Where do you belong?




AJokeOfaRiddle Comments for the Sheeples and those that don't catch on.

Hope you enjoyed the poem that almost broke the fourth wall and got me a poke from my friends on the other side. Comment to me if you enjoyed it and want more, perhaps to whom i should sent the next one as well? :smallwink:

Angel=In ancient greek it means messenger or envoy.

*As in data-stream(s)

Pestilence=Dulls, War=Well he comes and goes for now missing thankfully, As for the rest no idea dudes and dudettes tell me your ideas if you will.
Pillar of the World=Caucasus was considered that and its also where Zeus was said to have chained Prometheus.

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Legion of Dire
It would likely be easier to state those who I didn't need to fight for it...but, the device came from the ruins of Fort Kronus itself. I imagine its military hardware of some sort. Perhaps experimental as I was not aware they had anything of that nature.

Legion of Steel-Kamakura-Kai
You should know better than to ask that question, my friend. My people are willing to take practically any contract--no matter how dangerous the contract. Just tell me what you want done and i'll take it into consideration.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Legion of Steel
"HUH. DIRE DID NOT CALCULATE THE AMERICAN MILITARY'S PROGRESS WITHIN THE FIELD OF ACTIVATED PARTICLES TO BE QUITE SO ADVANCED. SHOULD HAVE BEEN AT LEAST ANOTHER SIX MONTHS... WELL, NO MATTER. IT SHALL BE ANALYZED AND RETURNED, AND THE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS SHALL BE OF A REASONABLE COST."

"IF THIS CAN BE STUDIED TO MUTUAL BENEFIT, PERHAPS YOU MAY BE LATER INTERESTED IN A FEW INVENTIONS THAT ARE CURRENTLY UNDER DEVELOPMENT..."

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Splicer [M]

I don't think we really have anything extra in the budget right now, but just for future reference how much are you charging for your ProtoFoam crowd-containment material? We have some ideas for applications for it that we are considering developing, and might be willing to license the technology from you, or simply buy large quantities at some point.


General Brockton [M]

We're ready when you are.


Anton Durnwood [PM]

"I'll see what I can do. If you would give me a moment?"


Adrian Banks [M]

While I would love to call our plans charitable, I am forced to admit a selfish goal behind them. Having our own shipping center would be very convenient for our international business. The increased stability and jobs we would be bringing to the area are a happy coincidence.


Kamakura-kai [M]

I believe so, yes. Mind you, I haven't actually checked with Inventory yet.


Shaper [M]

Most excellent. I believe we can work with this.

I will send a query to Engineering to get an answer about your Dragonsteel question.


Hugh Donovan [M]

We will see what we can do. If you could arrange for an area not filled with toxins for us to deliver to, that would be optimal.


Legion of Steel [M]

Certainly, we could send someone to take a look. Initial observation is free, training you'll have to pay for, if it is indeed something that we know how to operate.


Unit Blue [M]

FROM: [email protected]

A while back you mentioned to me some details about who EVRAZ was shipping Brotherhood weapons to in the Outer City. Do you still have that information? If you do, I may have found a way to make that flow of arms disappear.


Doctor Dire [M]

Could you by any chance send us any information you might have collected on Brotherhood/EVRAZ activities in the city? Now that our military contract is closing we're returning our attention to this troublesome competitor of ours, and we'd like to expand our intel base before doing so.


Thelonius (SYSTEM)

Questions

1) Is Dragonsteel corrosive-resistant?
2) How difficult would it be for me to develop the burrowing robot thing that Shaper's been talking about? He thinks that it would be easier to modify the PFR2 with an AI he will supply and a bunch of other tools instead of creating an entirely new product, and I'm inclined to agree.

Actions

0-1 Actions (not sure how much this costs me): Send someone out to look at the power suits the Legion of Steel found.

2 Actions: Fast manufacture a batch of the Powered Fast Response Mk.II. I want four of them equipped to my security team for the demonstration that Brockton asked for, and the fifth delivered to Mr. Donovan at mid-turn. I should have exactly enough Cash to do this right now.

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Legion of Dire
Always interested in new developments. Just let me know when these things are nearing completion and what they do for me. Once I recieve word, I shall begin prepping my funds for purchase.

Legion of Steel-LCAI
Of course. I fully expected a need to pay you.

[Eldan]

Splicer to LCAI [M]

I have nine units finished. Currently, Doctor Dire is developing a new better delivery mechanism. There's a few minor flaws to still work out, but the material is functioning.

Currently, I charge [3 cash] per unit. Production isn't cheap, but should get better with automatization and mass production.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to LCAI [M]

"THREE THINGS OF NOTE HAVE OCCURED WITH THE BROTHERHOOD SITUATION."

"FIRSTLY, DIRE RECIEVED COMMUNICATION FROM CHAINS MILITIA, MENTIONING THAT THE FLOW OF TRADE WAS HURTING THE CITY. INSISTED ON MEDIATING PEACE TALKS BETWEEN DIRE AND EVRAZ. DIRE ACCEPTED AND PEACE WAS NEGOTIATED. AFTER ALL, WORK OF EXPOSING BROTHERHOOD WAS NOT DIRE'S DUTY. LEFT TO YOU IN FACT. GOOD JOB, RENDERED ANY VICTORY THEY COULD ACHIEVE A MOOT POINT."

"SECONDLY, THEY DELIVERED A BATCH OF WEAPONS TO CHAINS MILITIA LAST MONTH. HANDED OFF IN THE WAREHOUSES."

"THIRDLY, DUTY DISPIRITED. SOLDIERS OVERHEARD DISCUSSING EVRAZ OPERATION A FAILURE. IF THEY ARE TO BE BELIEVED, DUTY CONSIDERING CUTTING LOSSES AND LEAVING A SKELETON CREW BEHIND ON THE DOCKS. GOVERNMENT MOVING IN LEAVES THEM NO ROOM TO WORK."

"INCIDENTALLY, DIRE HAS HEARD A RUMOR THAT YOU ARE WORKING UPON ADVANCED COMM UNITS. CORRECT?"

"IF THE INFORMATION IS HELPFUL, A DELIVERY OF A SMALL BATCH WOULD BE APPRECIATED."

[Thelonius]

Unit Blue

Adrian Banks [M]

Certainly. My secretary will schedule an appointment for tuesday, two o’clock at Banks Towers.


Sensei [M]

Voland... I wonder why. Voland has been neutral, without any leanings to any side. Voland’s motivation so far has always been to uncover more mysteries and conspiracies, but I don’t expect that could have bought this service. Perhaps I lack information.


Voland [M]

<You have received this message, because you tried to spam me. Not cool.>


Lightbringers [M]

‘’Ah certainly come. We’ll talk.’’


Menor Compadres [M]

‘’I just know they’ll try to screw us somehow...’’


US Army [M]

‘’Fort Kronus and as soon as possible.’’


Kamakuri-Kai

Toshiko Industries [M]

‘’We expect the stocks to rise of course. Once the prowess of our Power Suits will be proven without doubt in combat conditions, we expect an outpouring of orders from all around the world.’’


Maestro

Dr. Ladeau [PM]

‘’I see the meeting went well’’ Ladeau smiles. ‘’I met her myself a couple times. Can’t say I know much of her, a very secretive person, she is.’’


Serpentine Diabolic

Unroot

The poem draws attention of many in the Mesh and the board where it was posted explodes with posts. Suddenly Serpentine Diabolic is in the eye of the Mesh community’s maelstrom.

Perhaps it’s the return of Adrian Banks, who they say saw Unroot die, perhaps it’s Mesh mirror to cultural movement in Cape City, perhaps it’s just a fluke of random currents of Mesh, but for a moment she lives in many coders, hackers and users of Mesh, as they ask themselves, what would Unroot do? There’s a growing energy gathering in Mesh, a desire to achieve something grand to honor her memory... Or perhaps it’s her own will moving people, some of the more esoterically-minded people would say.

Andraste [PM]

Well, not that big or deep, but if there are indeed traps. You aren’t expert in implants.


Internal [PM]

I’m nto certain your VIP knows Mesh stuff. Otherwise you can use faction action to flip it.


Splicer

Mercantile Gang [M]

Okay, we’ll wait.


Kamakuri-Kai

Internal [PM]

Noted. I should mention it takes action to exchange Databases, unless you both have well-organized Mesh assets.


Legion of Dire

Night Crews [M]

That’s no bargain. You forget, that we steal tech for living and thus are perfectly aware of how much it costs. We’ve got another potential buyer, so I suggest you make up your mind, before we contact her.


Internal [PM]

Dire Dissipator is child’s play to design and produce.

Reverse-Engineering ahoy.

Err.. Was canceling about that other research? I won’t always permit take backs, just keep that in mind for the next time.


Shaper

US Military [M]

Colonel Johannes: ‘’Your mission will be dealing with tunnels and booby traps Harvesters may have in the Outer Abattoir. If you find somebody there, capture or in case of violent response kill. You may be called to reinforce troops. We’d like for you to keep a low profile for this operation. No need to advertise, that you work for us. ’’


Unity

Andraste [M]

Not interested.


Lightbringers [M]

Well, we aren’t up to full strength, but if you get a plan going, maybe we’ll be able to help out.


Cogworks [M]

I don’t think Shaper was behind that Rampage and Greendale is safe, so I guess that was just posturing. We might be able to help out, but Shaper appears to be more of a hired muscle. Dire or Maestro are the dangerous ones.


Hugh Donovan

Encounter [PM]

Pharmacist appears unashamed. ‘’Did that. A chemical solution to the excessive violence in the city. It’s not like it would have turned people into zombies. Just made them more likely to think rather than fight.’’


Internal [PM]

I don’t see why you can’t do that.


LCAI

Gen. Brokton

Basically, I’m waiting for an action to deliver the goods.


Adrian Banks [M]

‘’I believe the maritime shipping has grown obsolete with Alchemist’s transtube system. I realize many nations are still unwilling to adopt it, but they’ll come on board and with the current coverage it’s still cheaper to use it. Maybe there is a concern of putting all eggs in one basket, but redundancies can be added.’’

‘’As such I don’t see any future for the Docks as center of shipping. Right now it’s mostly used for illicit smuggling and attracts attention of criminals.’’


Durnwood [PM]

[after reading information passed by Dire]

‘’Mr. Coban, how interested is your corporation in dealing with Brotherhood? I feel that we can benefit from more information on them and such things require cash, that I as independent consultant do not posses.’’

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Night Crews [M]

"HMPH. ALL RIGHT, BUT THAT PANOPTICON BETTER HAVE THE GRINDERCORE STILL INTACT. USELESS OTHERWISE."
(Dire sends 5 cash for the component box)

"INCIDENTALLY, HAVE YOU EVER HAD ANY CONTACT WITH THE JUNK MAGE?"

"IS SHE APPROACHABLE? WOULD A PERSON WEARING A TITANIUM-COMPOSITE SUIT OF THE HIGHEST TECHNOLOGY BE WELL-ADVISED TO SEND SOMEONE ELSE?"

Internal (GM)

Cool, do I get the dissipator stats now? Or do you want us to put the dissipator together with Splicer's chemicals before you stat it? Can I make the first batch for free, or do I have to drop my last cash on it?

The cancel to the other stuff... Basically I was right about to start personal force field research. Then I got notice not a few hours later of the Legion of Steel wanting me to take a look at a force field generator. So as soon as I get it, I'll start using THAT to research, instead.

If you want to say no-take-backs that's fine. I'll just shelve the generator for another day.

[ArcaneStomper]

Shaper

To the US Military [M]
Understood. Although. Note. That. I. May. Not. Recognize. All. The. Traps. As. Being. Such.

Midturn action:
1 Action: Sweep the tunnels in the Outer Abattoir.

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel[Internal]
Delivering the shield generator I found at Fort Kronus to Dr. Dire.

Does that require an action?

[ArcaneStomper]

For Science! and Thelonius (PM)
The Shaper will investigate the blight from below the surface. Being inside the ground should protect him from anything nasty, and if it is some sort of toxin and not something weirder then I think chances are good that he wouldn't be affected anyway. Not much that can poison a rock.

Anyway assuming he does not start feeling ill he will proceed to the center of the blight and see what he can see. See being a generic term given that he's still blind.

I'll spend an action if necessary.

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Dr Ladeau [PM]
"Well, I don't take being attacked so lightly."

"If I were to want her dead, where do you think I should start?"

To Hugh Donovan
"Mr Donovan. It is my understanding you are interested in my information on the Powers of the City. Is there anything specific you want, or do you just want the Database itself. "

"And, if I can be so crass, what can you offer as payment? "

Thelonius [GM]
Just for posterity, yup, trading Powers (People) 1 to Kamakura-Kai for Crime 1

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Splicer [M]

Does the material carry a current well? Adding an incapacitating electrical component would be ideal.


Dire [M]

Thank you Doctor, that was very helpful.

We are working on advanced comms of a classified kind, but unfortunately we are not yet finished development. We will certainly alert you as soon as we have reached a stage where we feel ready to release the technology to the public.


Gen. Brockton [PM]

The convoy left through Customs and the First District, making for Trent Town and from there Fort Kronus. The idea was to meet up with advance Army units as fast as possible, for maximum protection on the journey. Inside the vans were the LCAI tech demonstrators, members of the Fast Response Team on their best behavior for the occasion. The convoy arrived at Fort Kronus (hopefully) without incident, asking to see the General at the gate.


Adrian Banks [M]

We had not thought that the area would become obsolete so quickly. Alchemist's new transport system is fast, yes, but as far as I know it is not yet constructed. Material will need to be transported to build the tubes, workers hired, etc. I had assumed that the Docks would be a central part of that effort, and indeed would need to be expanded in order to accommodate all the material that would need to be moved to build the new transport system. To that end, it would be best to clean up the area and turn it into a civilized, useful place, yes?

If our assumptions are wrong, please correct us. It would not do to set corporate policy on the basis of mistaken beliefs.


Durnwood [PM]

Coban raised an eyebrow. "You don't have the resources of the CCP backing you in this?" he asked. "I would have thought that removing an international criminal organization from the Outer City would have been high on their priority list."

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic

Unroot maelstrom[Mesh,Public i guess?]

by AJokeOfaRiddle: Hey i dint know everyone knew of her and valued her that much. *I might have an idea to share.

((GM.....i half dint post that poem over here....almost a happy tear in my eye XD...anyway what is publicly know and why does everyone like her so much??))
*Depending on the answer there might be no idea.


Andraste[PM]

((okay, calling the surgeon doctor with the nice hat to remove it and telling him its boobytrapped, after Andraste leaves that is, unless she insist's to stay or wishes to stay for whatever reason without insisting in which case il take care not to let her know who it is i contact.))

"Hrm...il call an expert i know for these matters for i am not sure in the case of a trap if i could handle it correctly, and i wont take my chances."

She turns to face Andraste "Thank you for your help Andraste, i owe you one...cash-in any time you wish this favour and give my regards to the Lightbringers in case i forget........hmm are they okay?, i kinda assume since you haven't asked me to help in any way and since you managed to bring her no one was hurt badly?, out of curiosity did Swarm perform well? dint sent me that data to know what to do next time we would meet."



Adrian Banks M]

Greetings Sir
We have heard you have plans to invest in the Outer City docks, are there are any plans or needs for investors in your undertaking?

((Ditto if you know about it http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Investment_banking))


Internal[PM]

Faction actions (using two if it helps me more).

[razovor]

Robin:

To Dire: [Mesh]
This is Adrian Banks plans for the docks;

[I]'The Docks will stop serving as logistical hub, as Alchemist’s Trans-Tube system will eclipse the Docks ability to bring goods. Apparently there is a plan to establish a station in Factories District. As such the Docks will need a new direction.

Banks proposes to rebuild the Docks completely, considering about half of them is heavily damaged anyway. His plan includes construction of a Marine Institute to study possibility of underwater ecosystem development and responsible exploitation of ocean resources. The rest of the Docks will be transformed into a resort and recreation area, with water sports, beaches and beautiful sights.'[I]

To Adrian Banks: [Mesh]
"What other groups are working on your plans in the docks? I feel it would be beneficial for us to co-operate directly."

~ Robin

[Forum Explorer]

Administrative Site C

To Dire
We think we can handle what comes next by ourselves. It's best for you to rest for a while after all of that fighting.

As for the Foam containment devices we'd love to have some. They might make the difference in a future fight.

To Hugh
Look don't misunderstand this. We don't care about Captain Hardon at all. If he were to attack us we'd kill him. If he tried to protect you, directly, from our forces we'd kill him. If we did kill him we'd likely use his death to try and get you to break your cover. But since we didn't come close to finding you last month we didn't interact with him at all.

To GM
I'm collecting that bounty on Warlock.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Robin [M]

"SOUNDS LIKE AN ATTRACTIVE PLAN. WHERE DO YOU AND YOUR PEOPLE FIT WITHIN IT? THAT IS THE QUESTION TO BE ASKING MISTER BANKS, IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY. WILL YOUR FOLK WORK THERE? WILL THEY LIVE THERE? WILL HE PAY FOR COSTS TO RELOCATE THEM ELSEWHERE?"

"FRANKLY, THIS PLAN IS A BIT DEPENDANT ON THE TUBE STATION. THAT'S PUTTING A LOT OF OVIPOSITED EMBRYOS IN A SINGULAR WICKER CONTRAPTION... EGGS IN A BASKET, AS IT WERE. LOSING THE WHARVES ENTIRELY? TROUBLE IF THE TUBE EVER STOPS WORKING."

"BUT IF BANKS WANTS TO MAKE A GO OF THIS, THAT IS FINE WITH DIRE. THE TIME OF SUPERVILLAINY IN THE DOCKS MUST FADE, SO THAT THE DOCKS CAN FULLY RECOVER. WARLOCK IS DEAD, THE FURIANS ARE ALL BUT OUT, THE GOATS ARE ACTUALLY SURPRISINGLY GOOD PEOPLE, AND THEN THERE IS YOU... NOW IS THE TIME OF ROBIN, AND OTHERS WHO HAVE FOUGHT AND BLED FOR THEIR PEOPLE, FOUGHT AS HEROES, AND NEVER ONCE TURNED TO THE SIDE OF DARKNESS."

"YES, IT SOUNDS CORNY. DEAL. DIRE'S WORKING ON SHORT NOTICE AND NO REAL GOOD SOUND BITES HERE."


Legion of Dire
to Administrative Site C

"THAT WAS DIRE'S ASSESSMENT AS WELL. NEED TO HAVE A FEW THINGS READY FOR THE NEXT FURY ANYWAY. REBUILD THE ARMIES, WORK ON PROJECTS."

"YOU SHALL HAVE SOME OF THE FIRST BATCH OF DIRE DISSIPATORS, OMNI-USE LIQUID SPRAYERS WITH CONTAINMENT FOAM SUPPLIED BY AN ALLY. PROTEIN BASED."

"DIRE SHALL SEE ABOUT GETTING YOU SOME MORE USEFUL TOOLS HERE AND THERE... JUST KEEP IT QUIET. YOU ARE NEEDED FOR THE WORLD TO COME REGARDLESS OF WHO RULES IT, BUT CAN'T HAVE PEOPLE THINKING DIRE IS HELPING THE AUTHORITIES. WOULD NEVER LIVE IT DOWN."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire) [PM]
"If the act of securing Dr Shea solely by your means would delay Ronin's return... I suppose it just might have to be so. It will take Dr Blake some time to fully restore his body to working condition in any case, if such is even possible for him that is. This matter with Dr Shea is likely to require more... immediate attention."

The Oyabun said, grimly pondering the matter still. Whatever it was he was scheming, it at least seemed as though it didn't involve Dr Shea's death for now.

To Masquerade [M]
I would just like to confirm; is there any information on the current whereabouts of the Pharmacist that you would like to share with me?

If not, I believe I will send you my files on the Outer City criminal landscape, in exchange for the purely monetary renumeration of [3 Cash], like you have earlier proposed.

Kamakura

To Legion of Steel [M]
I see. Well then, in that case...

The Killarz. That bunch of murderous, Black Mark-dealing outlaws have been rising in power, riding high on anti-Power sentiments for far too long. I will not abide their presence in the Greendale District for much longer, and neither will I condone what remains of the Harvesters in the area either. They will lead the good, hardworking people of the Greendale District into tragedy before too long; perhaps that has happened, already. Their malevolent presence must be scoured before they can do further damage.

What would be your usual asking price to secure and occupy both the Shanty Towns West and Shanty Towns East, until my organisation can muster up the manpower to assume control over these two areas? Would the remainder of my inventory of Brotherhood equipment suffice as payment in kind?

Kamakura

To LCAI [M]
I see. Do inform me at the soonest opportunity once you have checked in with your department, sir. It would bring me peace of mind to know for certain that no accident has prevented me from fulfilling my promises to yourself.

Kamakura

To Toshiko Industries [M]
I see. Thank you for answering my enquiry, my good sir.

Kamakura

Thelonius [GM]
Okay, so I know where two of my faction actions are going for now.

Can I get an estimate of the probability for Toshiko stock increasing in value? Going to use my [Toshiko 3] Influence here.

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Kamakura-kai
OOC: Wait, you want the money now? I thought you wanted the part-money, part-info deal, and I was just gathering a bit more before handing it over. So which deal will it be?

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Kamakura-Kai
Killerz...I have heard of them, but don't know much about them. Capabilities? Assets? Allies? I like to be prepared for any eventuallity that may arise.

The remaining Brotherhood equipment would be enough for us to eliminate the Killerz. Actually occupying their territory is more complicated and requires manpower we may not be able to spare without compensation. I am willing to cut you a deal however. [2 Cash] for every [Turn] I occupy the area sound fair to you? Normally I would charge slightly more but you, my friend, I am willing to help out.

Consider it payment for offering to help us out all those months ago. Plus, I feel you're asking too little for the equipment you have been selling... but then again, who am I to tell a man to cheat his customers?

Legion of Steel[Internal]
Do I know anything of the Killerz? Does the Goverment have designs on them ths month?

[NM020110]

Maribel

Kamakura-kai Headquarters[PM]

With this last statement, Maribel seems to start calculating something. It takes a few minutes, but she seems to have put something together.

"I've got a guess as to what the situation is, now. Please correct me if I'm off. Someone unknown to us has taken Dr. Shea, and is possibly a threat to her, or is likely to per her to a use not to your interests.

"Given that..."

Maribel stops to think for a bit longer at this point, and the air seems to become unnaturally still.

"Given that it wasn't someone involved in the Harvester assault...I'd put it as either the Government or the people that ambushed you and Unit Blue a while back whose name I don't recall, though I don't have nearly enough information to be certain on the matter.

"Hmmm...more information might help narrow motives. Dr. Dire, when the Sixes were attacked I am told that they performed an emergency broadcast which, among other things, alleged that Dr. Shea was engaged in Powers Research. Would you happen to know any more about that?"


Sanctuary[PM]

Unit Blue

"Where, I wonder, does the boundary separating possible and impossible lie?"

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
Kamakura-Kai HQ
(Maribel, Kamakura-Kai) [PM]

"Dire in fact knows little of the Sixes' broadcast, apologies. Dire could ask the Maestro if he found any transcripts on the matter. This would mean letting the Maestro know that something was wrong with Doctor Shea. Given that he and Shaper do not see eye to eyespot, this may not be a good move."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire) [PM]
"Syndicate."

The Oyabun practically growled, hearing Maribel's allusion to the criminal organisation which had stymied his efforts at the Junks, several months ago.

"...yes, it would be them. If Dr Shea was involved in illicit Powers Research, then they of all people would be interested in acquiring her services, one way or the other. We shall have to tread carefully."

Thinking for a bit, the Oyabun then gestured to one of his men.

"Tell Shifu I apologise for disrupting his bed rest, but I need his skills now for a matter most delicate. And assemble the men with the new heavy weapons, get them ready for a potential rescue operation."

"Dire-sensei, I apologise for imposing upon you so soon, while you are still in the midst of your arrangements. However, what can you spare for a quick grab-and-run?"

"Hearn-dono, do you believe we should involve our other mutual acquaintances in this matter?"

Sanctuary [PM]

To Unit Blue
Oyabun: Tune-san, I have been led to believe you may know something about the current disposition of the Killarz forces in the Greendale district?
Oyabun: Do you believe you can do me a favour, and transmit that data to the Legion of Steel?
Oyabun: Or, otherwise, I could pass it on to them personally.

To Masquerade [M]
OOC: Oh, I didn't realise. Thought there was another reason you didn't respond to me. What kind of info do you have, Shaper or Pharmacist? I was asking about the latter earlier, if you haven't noticed.

To Legion of Steel [M]
I cannot say I am absolutely certain as to the current turn-out of the Killarz, but I may know of someone who would. I will ask that person to give you the necessary data soon.

Also, would you perhaps be saying that you would be willing to entertain further requests from myself in exchange for the equipment? Ha. Jokes aside, I do consider your assistance in removing the Killarz from the Greendale District ample payment for the goods, and I did recommend that your forces remove the Harvesters presence from there as well earlier. I suppose I will consider that my attempt into cheating your forces into further payment of services for my goods, ha!

[2 Cash] for every [Turn] you hold both Shanty Town areas until our takeover sounds more than reasonable, my friend. I thank you for your generous assistance in the matter. May I confirm, then, that you would like the Fortix delivered to yourself as well?

Kamakura

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Ascaloth
Yeah, I mentioned what I had on Shaper, but I don't have what you're asking for on Pharmacist. I've been trying to scrape up one more piece of intel on Shaper before giving you what I've got, but he's stopped replying to me so it looks like it's either the cash or the things I mentioned earlier.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Cognimancer
Ah, I see. Well, I'll take the stuff on Shaper then; we've got time until the Mid-Turn rolls around for Arcane to reply to you.

[ArcaneStomper]

To the Masquerade (M)
I. Am. Not. In. Hiding. Although. I. Do. Not. Believe. I. Could. Be. Reached.

I. Do. Not. know. Where. Dr. Shea. Is.

Thelonius
Did the earth speaker actually provide any plans about what he is planning to do at the docks? Just restoring them is a bit vague.

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
Kamakura-Kai HQ
(Maribel, Kamakura-Kai) [PM]

Dire blinks. She considers.

"You catch Dire at a bad time. The robots are hidden at the new site, and must remain so."

"However, Dire can suit up and join you if need be. But you must make absolutely certain of this intelligence before you act."

"The Syndicate are almost up there with the Harvesters as far as lethality goes. This could end in tragedy if you are not cautious."

[NM020110]

Maribel

Kamakura-kai Headquarters[PM]

"Syndicate...if it's them, their target will probably be Shaper..."

Maribel looks towards one of the room's chairs, and a very light pressure begins to fill the room.


Thelonius[SM]

About how many actions will the following take?:

Boundary: Presence and Absence
Target: Dr. Shea (or if that's not viable, the individual who is Human, Known to Shaper, and named Dr. Shea)
Action: Move the Target to the chair at which Maribel is looking.

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Kamakura-kai
Very well. Here's what we know.

Shaper has previously been conducting business using Dr. Shea as a proxy, or by creating obelisks with crude messages on them. Recently, though, he has registered for a personal Mesh address. Unless he has special equipment he shouldn't be able to use the Mesh, so there are three possibilities. First, Dr. Shea is with him, and they've found a new base of operations from which to conduct business. This is unlikely, as his personal Mesh messages follow the same broken grammar as his obelisks. Second, he's found a new agent to handle his human interactions, although I have no idea who - could be a member of the Freaks, who he's allied with. Lastly, he has custom technology to let him use the mesh without sight. As far as we know, he has two known associates capable of producing that kind of technology - LCAI and Doctor Dire. If one of them manufactured his Mesh setup, they may know where he is or how to find him.

A second route of tracking him is more direct. Basic probing has shown his new Mesh address to be unsecured. It should be easy for any hacker, possibly your friends in Unit Blue or perhaps Street Legal, to either decrypt his messages (which could contain clues to his location) or to trace the network connections to either his current location or a server farm that may have dealt with him. Any of these routes of inquiry could be sufficient to discern his location.

The most straightforward method of investigation would be to search his former base in the Greendale Boneyards for clues. Do not attempt this. The entire research facility is rigged with enough explosives to bring it down at the drop of a hat. This was not our doing, nor was it Shaper's. I don't know who trapped the building - could be someone else looking to find him, could even be your own hand - but there are no leads to be found in the Boneyards. Only death.

We can inform you if any other information surfaces in the coming weeks. As agreed upon, the token payment of [1 Cash] still stands. Is this an acceptable trade for the database?

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire) [PM]
The Oyabun thought for a bit on Dr Dire's words, then spoke in turn.

"That should be sufficient. With luck, we should not even need your involvement in the matter; this is going to be a quick grab, and I'm hoping I will not need you, and the rest of my men, to shoot the point group out of trouble."

"As for intelligence... hmmph. Not sure how much I can obtain, in such a short time, even if Tune-san were here. If this is indeed what I think it is, they would be too good at hiding their secrets. It might be too late before we obtain enough clear information to act without hesitation."

To Masquerade [M]
More than acceptable, Mirage-san. Once again, you have my gratitude for your assistance in this matter. I shall arrange the transfer of the database files to you, immediately.

Kamakura

Thelonius [GM] (Masquerade may read)
Spending a faction action to transfer [Crime 1] to Masquerade.

[Murska]

Mesh Unroot Movement GM note
Tune uploads evidence of MISA's corruption, calling for people to investigate and uncover the truth. It's Unroot-ish, in public consciousness, and also everyone hates MISA. I'll probably write some fluff later.

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Kamakura-kai
Hmm... Fortix. How effective is this stuff? Might be useful in building fortifications...

I plan to move at [mid-turn] hopefully. Depending on what your contact tells you.

Mave's Toughs[PM]
Gizel arrives at "la casa de Mave" once again.

Well... that went better than expected...even though many signed up simply to fight the Goverment, the gain more than outweighs the investment. Did you have any plans this month?

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Shaper
Dr. Shea isn't there? Is she in some kind of danger? I was going to request the purchase of your skills for an architectural job, but if you have to attend to more pressing matters like Dr. Shea's safety then it can wait.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Legion of Steel [M]
I will be honest with you, my friend; I have no idea. I have never had cause to make use of it, so I couldn't tell you how effective it truly is. It was something I acquired for someone else, to be honest.

However, I expect your forces would be more likely to find a use for it. Perhaps as a quick method of setting up fortifications, so as to buy yourself time to set up something more permanent. Perhaps, you might even find a way to reverse-engineer it to have a more permanent effect, or otherwise whatever effect you might desire.

Kamakura

[Eldan]

Splicer to LCAI

"Currently not, no. The protein matrix isn't a very good conductor. However, I am working on a second version of the product already. I'll see whatI can do in that regard.

[Thelonius]

Tensions in First District

A series of disappearances and assaults in the First District have CCP patrolling the District in force. The rest of the Outer City is filled with sick anticipation of the coming war...

Unroot

Somebody uploaded information of MISA corruption to Serpentine Diabolic forum. Perhaps that will be the direction, that the movement would take - taking down MISA!

Legion of Dire

Night Crews [M]

Junk Mage? No idea. We deal with technology, not magic. There were some rumors of something going down there...


Internal [PM]

You can build 6 of them for [1] Cash. Mid-Turn for extra action or at EoT.

No need to shelf it, since it’s about generators anyway. If you decided to cross-breed bunnies, I might have deducted efficiency.


Generator

Level: 4 or more

Efficiency: it’s enough to stop non-high tech weaponry. Generator creates large force fields, suitable to defending fortifications against airstrikes or artillery. Force field can be deactivated and reactivated in space of several seconds for retaliation fire.

Requirements: Needs energy and Technology 2+ to operate (or trained specialists)

Maintenance: a number of redundancy systems built in and repair is easy


Legion of Steel

Chains [M]

‘’We are interested in offering you a contract to fight US Military. Would you be interested?’’


Internal [PM]

In this case yes. It’s pretty bulky.

Mave: I say we take Chains contract, beat US Army, get rich and buy ourselves a District.


Shaper

Blight [PM]

There doesn’t appear to be anything odd about the place or at least anything Shaper can sense. There are two humans in the center of the blight.


Internal [PM]

There’s a lot of underground damage, with whole areas sinking or unstable. Step one would be correcting that. Earth Speaker will transmute, Shaper will control.


Maestro

Dr. Ladeau [PM]

‘’I fear not with me. I am no assassin. Taking human lives is such a waste.’’


Lockwood-Coban

Event [PM - Kamakuri-Kai can read]

The Trent Town is full of Chains patrols and the streets have much fewer civilians. The LCAI trucks are stopped by a road block.

Chains soldiers watch the trucks warily and officer in charge approaches. ‘’What are you transporting and what is your destination?’’


Adrian Banks [M]

‘’Alchemist has been working on the system for quite a time already. Which solves the issue of the materials. Most of the construction work was done by city drones and my company’s specialists. Powers and technology on the level of the Architect change how things are done. I heard there are already projects to develop teleportation, so in a couple years the transtube system could be obsolete.’’


Durnwood [PM]

‘’Oh, I have them. But you wouldn’t believe the amount of paperwork required to authorize payment to criminals. And unfortunately the sources I have in mind are quite outside the law.’’


Serpentine Diabolic

Internal [PM]

She was integral in creating Mesh 2.0 after the Zeus destroyed original.

She left in lots of stuff in it that gives leverage to talented programmers and ensures that nobody (as in governments or corporations) can dominate it.

She used information to keep certain people honest, expose crimes and injustice

She helped nurture talent was supported people.

She was pushing for AI research, free flow of information, consciousness upload research


Andraste [PM]

‘’They are healing. It’s better for now to keep separated. They might not realize how deep you were involved in this one. And favor... I’ll call it back one day.’’


Adrian Banks [M]

Investors are certainly welcome.


Robin

Adrian Banks [M]

I am in negotiations with a number of corporations for financial backing. The Alchemist will be assisting in reconstruction effort.


Kamakuri-Kai

Internal [PM]

1. Probability estimation in such cases is more domain of Business Database
2. Your influence might help as you get info from corporation, but it’s not very high.

In this case however you do get information, that Japanese government is satisfied. Toshiko is hoping that US Government assault on Outer City fails spectacularly, while JDF actions succeed. In which case they are certain, they can get government contracts.


Legion of Steel [PM]

Not much on Killarz. They are very efficient in playing on anti-power sentiments and skilled in use of propaganda.

Government might deal with them after Chains are defeated, but right now they’d be a low priority.


Marribel

Internal [PM]

It’ll take 3 Actions.

[Orbiter]

Serpentine Diabolic

Neta groaned someone had posted on the forum some stuff about MISA....oh wait that was interesting she could use it against them to ensure the mesh is free....huehuehueh as her friend would say it was time to kick some MISA ass.

Andraste[PM]

"Fair enough...oh and a warning do take care with the rest of the criminals left in the Walls especially Maestro who was watching the Lightbringers when i helped them, and now he may or may not try attacking them this time, now that they are weakened a bit and he has one of his enemies away as well."


Andrian Banks[PM]

((I sent a vip to deal with all the legal matters and speak to whoever they give me in order to invest in their dock business: Question is 7 cash a lot of money?, he has a bit less in the suitcase until i see what agreement is reached))
Finias came to the Bank well dressed with a suitcase full of money the plan was to invest in the whole thing and get a return of their capital. He had sent them a mesh message to make an appointment.


Internal[PM]

This evidence about MISA how good is it in a glance?
If its good enough and looks legit i wanna use it bellow, otherwise please ignore the bellow.
Using TWO vip actions from my main vip(Nianta who has a level in being charming) One action to compile the evidence and create my main points for the argument/letter/video and another to actually make it well and strongly support it for full effect.
That way with the help of the evidence of corruption i wanna make people rise against MISA and bring it down, in my letter/argument(which is a video if i make that way full use of my vip talent) i also remind them of all the good Unroot did and try to make MISA look like the devils with the contrast helping me of all the good done by Unroot just one person and how much bad is being done by one organization.

So this open letter goes to The brewing Unroot movement, as well to: The Collective,Goats to ensure they see it.
((Now attached to the letter is the evidence as well in case you missed it)).
Also calling modok for a full checkup and implant removal of Rose and if i have a way for the SA to see the evidence i sent my evidence to them as well with a note saying to bring down an enemy you bring down the allies.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Legion of Steel

"AFTER STUDYING THE ITEM... WELL. YOU CERTAINLY HAVE A FORCE FIELD GENERATOR HERE. SENDING A TECHNICAL BRIEF THROUGH IN LANGUAGE YOU WILL UNDERSTAND."

Technical Brief

Generator

Level: 4 or more

Efficiency: it’s enough to stop non-high tech weaponry. Generator creates large force fields, suitable to defending fortifications against airstrikes or artillery. Force field can be deactivated and reactivated in space of several seconds for retaliation fire.

Requirements: Needs energy and Technology 2+ to operate (or trained specialists)

Maintenance: a number of redundancy systems built in and repair is easy


"DO YOU HAVE THE TECHNOLOGY KNOW-HOW TO USE THIS DEVICE? DIRE CAN SEE HOW IT WOULD BE USEFUL TO YOU ON THE BATTLEFIELD."

"DIRE COULD APPOINT A MINION TO HELP TRAIN SPECIALISTS TO UTILIZE IT...TRAINING OF SPECIALISTS WOULD BE ANOTHER 4 CASH, FOR PROVIDING TIME AND FACILITIES. WOULD TAKE (One Action) FROM BOTH OF US, MOST LIKELY."



GM Notice
Spending one Dire action and one Faction action (With Hardakker helping!) to reverse engineer the Generator.

Also spending a faction action and 2 points worth of the tech junk to build 12 sprayers at the EOT.


Legion of Dire
to Night Crews

"DIRE... HATES TO BOTHER YOU AGAIN OVER A MATTER WHICH YOU WILL MOST LIKELY FIND TRIVIAL. DIRE'S NEW HAVEN HAS NEIGHBORS, AND THEY WOULD NOT LIKELY FIND DIRE'S RESIDENCE COMFORTABLE. CARE HAS BEEN TAKEN TO CONCEAL SAID RESIDENCE, BUT IT OCCURS TO DIRE THAT A GROUP OF PROFESSIONAL CRIMINALS COULD EASILY TAKE PRECAUTIONS THAT DO NOT NORMALLY FALL WITHIN THE WORLD CONQUEROR AND MODERN DAY DA VINCI SKILLSET."

"COULD YOU ASSIST WITH THIS MATTER? YOU STILL HAVE TO STOP BY TO TRADE IN THE TECH MATERIALS ANYWAY, MIGHT AS WELL MAKE A DAY OF IT."

"DIRE WILL MAKE IT UP TO YOU IN MONTHS TO COME. WORKING ON SOMETHING IMPRESSIVE. YOU'LL HAVE A CHANCE TO BUY ONE AT PRODUCTION COST..."

(Using influence to get the Night Crews to secure the West End workshop, and help with a cover story and behavior to keep the neighbors from getting too curious.)

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]

A little while later, Dire checks back.

"SPLICER, THE SPRAYERS WILL BE DONE BY THE END OF THE MONTH. 12 IN THE FIRST BATCH. SPLICER, DIRE WANTS TWO OF THEM TO PASS ON TO FOUNDATION C. THEY SHALL TEST THEM, AND MAKE GOOD USE OF THEM."

"MASQUERADE, THE INFORMATION YOU GATHERED ON THE BROTHERHOOD HAS BEEN PASSED ON TO LOCKWOOD-COBAN. THEY SHALL BE THE ONES FIGURING OUT HOW TO PUT NONCOMBAT PRESSURE ON THE BROTHERHOOD. THEY HAVE A VESTED INTEREST IN RUNNING THEM OUT OF TOWN, YOU SEE. THEY DISLIKE COMPETITION. THEY SHALL DECIDE WHAT TO DO, AND IF THEY CAN MAKE IT WORTH OUR WHILE, WE CAN ACT FURTHER ON THE DUTY/EVRAZ SITUATION."

"AS FAR AS THE PROPHET SITUATION GOES, IT IS NOT TO OUR BENEFIT TO GET INVOLVED AT THIS TIME. THAT SAID... SOMEONE SHOULD PROBABLY GO TALK TO THE JUNK MAGE, AND GET HER TAKE ON THE PROPHET. SHE IS NOT CONTACTABLE BY MESH, SO IT WOULD HAVE TO BE A PERSONAL VISIT. IT NEED NOT NECESSARILY BE ONE OF US, OR ONE OF OUR MINIONS. WE COULD SUGGEST IT TO ANOTHER ENTITY."

"FINAL BIT OF BUSINESS FOR NOW. IT SEEMS LIKE WE ARE AGREED ON TRIGGERING A WAR BETWEEN THE REAPERS AND THE EXILE/FIREPOWER GROUPS. MASQUERADE, IN PREPARATION FOR THAT CAN YOU START SEEDING YOUR INFILTRATORS INTO BOTH GROUPS? MAESTRO, CAN YOU PROVIDE FUNDING AND INFORMATION AS NEEDED?"

[Cognimancer]

Dire, Maestro, Splicer [PM]
"Infiltrating the Reapers shouldn't be difficult. I'm not so sure about the Exiles, though. Unless I'm mistaken, I believe they're a small team, made up entirely of dishonored Capes from the inner city. I also think that their merge with "Firepower" isn't as impressive as it sounds - Firepower was nearly wiped out, and the only known survivor is the one known as Blast Shield. Either way, my men would be probably be turned away. Unless... Maestro, you're closer to them than I am. Do the Exiles use mercenaries for grunt work? As a pro-Power gang I'd assume they wouldn't, but you never know."

Kamakura-kai
Then it's been a pleasure doing business, Mr. Kamakura. The cash has been transferred to your accounts.

Also... it seems that additional intel has come sooner than I could have hoped. Dr. Shea is not with the Shaper. In fact, he doesn't know where she is - she's been taken. Neither he nor I know by whom, but it seems like they are going to great lengths to keep her hidden. Meanwhile - and this is only guesswork - I believe Shaper has retreated underground.

[ArcaneStomper]

Shaper

To the Masquerade (M)
I. Do. Not. Believe. She. Is. In. Danger.

Not. Until. Whoever. Has. Taken. Her. Has. Contacted. Me.

I. Expect. They. Will. Do. So. Soon.

Tell. Me. What. Construction. You. Are. Planning.

I. May. Be. Able. To. Spare. Some. Time.

The Blight (PM)
The Shaper heads towards the two humans. He attempts to get their attention by raising a monolith with just the word "Hello" on it in big letters.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Masquerade [M]
Mirage-san, this is Shifu. My boss is currently engaged in a matter of grave import, but it was my judgement that communications between ourselves be resumed immediately, after your last communique.

Ah yes, the matter of Dr Shea's current whereabouts. As a matter of fact, we had received similar news of that nature somewhat earlier, and my oyabun is even now holding discussions with the business acquaintances who brought him that information. I will not reveal their identities until they give the say-so, but suffice to say they are no strangers to yourselves.

Would you perhaps like to spare some of your personnel for a quick joint venture? We could certainly use the kind of skills your people have so much expertise in, for an operation of this nature.

Shifu

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Shaper
Tunneling. Specifically, a tunnel underneath the Wall. It would either need to be deep enough not to be noticed, or shaped quietly, but you'd know how to handle those details better than I would. If you think you'll be able to do this, I can start making arrangements to mask the entrances.

Splicer
Splicer, how competent are you with neural operations? Specifically, would it be within your skillset to - hypothetically - map out a person's brain and store their knowledge and learned skills? Or alternatively, clone the brain itself?

Kamakura-kai
Greetings, Shifu. The Masquerade has some other operations currently underway, so I'd need some more details before allocating any manpower. I don't mean to be crude, but would this venture be profitable for us, or would this be a mission of charity?

[ArcaneStomper]

Shaper

To the Masquerade (M)
I. Can. Make. A. Tunnel. Anywhere.

But. It. Wouldn't. Be. Secret.

The. Entire. Region. Under. Cape. City. Is. Watched.

Especially. At. The. Walls.

This. Was. In. Place. Before. I. Arrived.

So. I. Believe. It. Has. Been. Set. Up. Specifically. To. Observe. Any. Attempts. To. Do. What. You. Are. Proposing.

[Eldan]

Splicer to Masqerade

"It just so happens that this is a project I was working on together with Dire. I haven't started yet, but she is developing a new type of scanner that should provide the necessary resolution to map all connections and synapses. Rebuilding the brain after that should be the easy part."

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
to Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]

"HM. PERHAPS INFILTRATION WOULD BE A BITY HASTY, THEN. CAN YOU SPY ON THE GANGS INSTEAD? SCOUT THEM? SEE WHAT WE ARE UP AGAINST BOTH FORCEWISE AND METHODWISE?"

"AS FAR AS THAT SCANNER... THAT WILL HAVE TO BE ONE OF NEXT MONTH'S PROJECTS. STILL, SPLICER AND DIRE TOGETHER SHOULD BE ABLE TO DO THIS THING."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To the Masquerade
Nothing good comes for free, my dear Mirage-san. That is all I am willing to say on the matter... over the airwaves, that is.

Would you not like to send a representative down to our HQ, perhaps yourself? I believe my boss will be much more willing to discuss the matter in more detail, there. This at least I can mention; I do believe it will prove to be most lucrative, if not in gold, then in kind.

Shifu

[Eldan]

Splicer to Masquerade, Maestro, Dire

"Perhaps instead of infiltration, we could do a substitution? If we act quickly, we might be able to kidnap and replace a member with one of Dire's doppelgangers before it becomes noticeable.
It would require substantial planning, but if someone could produce a gene sampe (hair, blood, skin) and a few good photos for me, I could grow a botskin rather easily."

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
to Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]

"NOT A BAD IDEA SPLICER, BUT IF WE ARE GOING TO GO TO THAT LENGTH OF THINGS, THEN WE LOSE NOTHING BY ASKING THE MASQUERADE TO START SPYING ON THEM FIRST. LEARN THEIR CUSTOMS, LEARN THE WEAK LINKS TO REPLACE... LEARN WHAT WE ARE UP AGAINST FIRST, SO WE DO NOT HAVE ANOTHER HARVESTER DEBACLE."

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Shaper
I see. Well, that is most unfortunate. Nevermind, then, the tunnel isn't worth the risk.

Splicer
Oh, excellent. I'm interested in this research as well; if there is anything I can do to move it along, let me know.

Dire, Maestro, Splicer [PM]
"Reconnaissance is certainly doable. I can dispatch scouts immediately to begin spying.

"The risk here, as I'm sure we all know, is substantial. The Exiles, the remaining Firepower, and the Reapers are all backed by a number of Powers. Maestro, again, your intel here would be appreciated - do you know what Powers the Exiles have at their disposal? I already have dossiers on all but one of the Reapers' Powers (their fourth member, Liho, is hard to pin down), but I don't have any dirt on the Exiles.

Kamakura-kai
Very well. I'll be there soon.

Kamakura-kai HQ[PM]
Mirage arrives in Trent Town and awaits a KK member to direct her to the meeting place.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire, Masquerade) [PM]
A couple of the black-suited mobsters did show up before long, and bowing to Mirage in greeting, promptly started leading the Masquerade representative to where the Oyabun currently was...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the same time, Shifu appeared in the presence of the trio in the midst of their discussions, and bowed to the two guests of the Kamakura-kai in greeting. However, opting not to say a word so as to avoid interrupting the discussion, the martial artist - whom already looked much better than he had coming out of the Abbatoir operation - went over and whispered in the Oyabun's ear, whom nodded as he heard what his remaining lieutenant had to say. That done, the Oyabun straightened up again, as Shifu stepped away to one side.

"Well, most interesting. It appears the Masquerade has also gotten wind of Dr Shea's disappearance, and their representative is already here. Always a pleasant surprise to observe their utter efficiency at whatever they do, though I must admit such a quick appearance has caught me slightly off guard."

"Hearn-dono, Dire-sensei. Would you both be agreeable with the Masquerade lending their assistance to this matter, if they would care to offer it?"

[ArcaneStomper]

To the Masquerade
There. Would. Be. Little. Risk.

Just. Knowledge. Of. The. Tunnels. Existence. By. The. City.

If. You. Could. Find. A. Resident. Of. Cape. City. Willing. To. Let. The. Tunnel. Emerge. In. Their. Building. It. Might. Be. Done.

Although. If. You. Intend. Harm. To. Cape. City. As. A. Whole.

Then. You. Would. Probably. Be. Stopped.

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Shaper
I intend no harm, but even if I worked with a resident to cover the entrance, the City would probably shut it down. After all, it would circumvent the Checkpoints, and they've probably got laws for just that sort of "offense."

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
Kamakura-Kai HQ
Maribel, Kamakura-Kai [PM]

"Dire has no objections to working with the Masquerade. One moment." She returns to her room, suiting up once she enters.

Then she marches back, in full regalia.

"YES. LET US DISCUSS MATTERS WITH THE MASQUERADE."

[razovor]

Robin

To Adrian banks
thank you, a lot of money will be necessary to make this project . Who will be organising the work in the rest of the docks? The people of robintown are relatively comfortable now. I could expand my administration to cover what was the southern shipping if necessary .

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Shaper
Actually... now that you mention it, I may know just the strings to pull. If you have time, the offer still stands.

Cape City Government [GM Notice]
Could someone direct me to the city policies on underground construction projects in the vicinity of the walls?

OOC: I'm going to be analyzing the paperwork too see how easy it would be to alter the documents so a tunnel under the Wall wouldn't attract attention from anyone who isn't in my pocket. I should be able to do this with my Influence, yes?

[Murska]

Unit Blue - LCAI [M]

I have no data on the recent activities of the Brotherhood. I've been busy with the Harvesters and the Syndicate. My apologies.

Unit Blue - Banks [PM]

A bit before the appointed date, Radical arrives at the Towers.

"Excuse me. I should have an appointment by the name of Kevry Bronx."

Unit Blue - Sensei [M]

We do lack information, and the only one who has it that we know of would be Voland himself.

If you have the evidence on it having to be one of the three suspects... we need some leverage to get behind this matter.

Unit Blue - Lightbringers [PM]

Radical arrives in their territory at an agreed-upon time, clothed lightly but with a couple bandages covering minor scratches.

Unit Blue - Menor Compadres [M]

"I realize this. What I think we should do is make sure we're ready for whatever they attempt, and not make the first move ourselves.

Maybe if you go with the Prometheus's offer to fund you - much publicity, your image being one of legit heroes. And meanwhile as more physical security, we could merge our areas in the Junks, keep them peaceful and civil and give the Army no excuse to roll over and mess things up. What do you think?"

Unit Blue - US Military [PM]

Oddly enough, it isn't Radical who arrives to represent Unit Blue, and not even Tune.

It's Ruby. "Unit Blue was requested to present a representative here for discussion about our future."

Unit Blue - Blaze [M]

Tune: "Our lack of proper information cost us, but we triumphed over the Harvesters.

Right now, I'm at a juncture point on where to concentrate - the Caretakers, the Syndicate or the corruption in MISA. One by one, is the prudent way here...

Do you want to work with me, with us, on this? I know from experience that all three of these are tough - we'll need help. But there's a lot of unknowns that need to be lit up and flared out, as you know."

Unit Blue - Anise Seed [M]

I am hoping to give the residents of recently-freed parts of the Junks something to live with and something to live for. Part of it is farms, with solar power aiding. But the soil isn't excellent and more importantly there's unexploded munitions and such.

Any help or advice you might have for our project?

Sanctuary - Maribel [PM]

"Mm... well, nothing that is impossible can ever be done by any means. Otherwise, it wouldn't be impossible. But figuring out what is impossible and what isn't is the difficult part - we're just testing our wings in Unit Blue and haven't felt the sun yet.

...honestly, I fear that is to come. The others, they don't really realize what they're doing, the risks. Three times now, I've been stuck here, knowing... Rad might be about to... and the videos! Boys seem to think they're invulnerable! He's just an ordinary guy, no Powers or anything, and he keeps on trying. to. get. killed! Bastard."


...sorry. Though, I meant to ask, what do you want to order?" A little laugh, a bit forced. She clearly has plenty on her mind.

Unit Blue - Inquirer [M]

Given all the difficulties in the Outer City recently, would you be interested in taking a look at Edgetown and what we're building out there? Hopefully it'd provide something with a bit more upbeat tone for once.

[Murska]

Sanctuary - Kamakura-kai [PM]

Tune: I apologize, but I do not have any detailed information on the Killarz.
((OOC: Giving you the info I mentioned over Skype.))
Tune: Pass that along if it helps.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Sanctuary [PM]
To Unit Blue
Oyabun: It does help indeed, Tune-san.
Oyabun: You have my thanks.

To Legion of Steel [M]
I have received word from my contact, dear sir. The information, in their own words, were as follows;


The Killarz were quite weak until recently, but have been growing due to the riots and their role in them. A rough estimate would put their forces somewhere in the vicinity of 10 followers. They don't have any big guns, just ordinary small arms and plenty of bodies to throw into the mix. No Powers, obviously.

They have drug trade wealth, and probably limited support from extreme anti-Powers, but if they start taking damage, they'll crumble. And if their true colours are revealed, they'll lose most if not all of their support.

I hope this is of use to you and your men, my friend.

Kamakura

[NM020110]

Maribel

Kamakura-kai Headquarters[PM]

Maribel pauses in her concentration as what looks uncannily like the lead-up to the Harvester assault begins to shape up. Before things go too far, she turns to intervene.

"Before we have a repeat of the Harvester debacle, I'd like to make an offer. It is within my power to simply bring Dr. Shea here, though it will take some energy to do so."


Sanctuary[PM]

Kamakura-kai[OOC]

Right, just got my EOT back, including the test to see what the cost of bringing Ronin back will be. It is estimated that the price is Equivalent Exchange.

That resurrection will probably have to wait until I manage to get a few projects finished...so basically endgame.

Unit Blue

"I suppose that, in this world, there is very little indeed that could be called impossible, then. I'll say one thing, though. I admire what you do in Unit Blue. Though I can't afford to stop moving towards my goals if I want them to come to pass, just let me know if you need help with, say, giving Radical a better chance of survival or something.

"As for what to get...their pasta looks decent."

[UntrainedMonkey]

Hugh Donovan

To Encounter [PM]
Well ****. Ya poison an few city blocks to keep everyone out and they decide that it's an open invitation. I can deal with one or two, you seem like a fairly decent fellow but I ain't that fond of much more. Never met Shaper before only talked to Dr. Shea. Didn't she go missing or something like that? Whatever, seems like we'll be having another visitor shortly.

Say, while we wait I'd like to ask you a question. Ya want to join me? There's only so much I can do by myself. It'd be nice to have some help. We could watch each other's backs.

Maestro
Yeah, I'm looking to know more bout powers in the city. If you can get it to me I'd like the database. As for payment, I ain't a rich man. Work mostly in favors, you give this to me and I'll do something for you. But, if it's money you want I got just a little bit and Dire said that she'd pay up to [4 Cash].

Shaper
Dunno how to get in contact with you other then through the mesh right now. Hope yer able to get this. See, you seem to be intent on investigating my current home. I already got some company but if you'd like to join us feel free.

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Hugh Donovan
"Alright. I can get you the Database. What power are you currently manifesting? Favours are fine with me. Shall we say, two favours to be called in at the time of my choosing?""

[Murska]

Sanctuary - Maribel [PM]

"A-ight." She places the order and leads her to a small table with a good view out, poor view in - out of natural habit, it seems. She does appear to be a bit more cautious than the others in Unit Blue.

Once they're seated, she continues.
"Don't get me wrong, I'm fully behind what the Unit Blue does. I mean, it wouldn't exist without me, you know? I just worry... there's not going to be turning back. We'll never have real lives, you know, with studying and dating and jobs and kids and family. Not like most people. However I look at it, we'll probably die before we get old. It's worth it, but I... don't want to think about it, can't stop thinking.

****. This isn't the way I meant to take this conversation. Sorry."

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Chains[PM]
Gizel arrives to meet with the Chains Militia personally. Greetings. Normally I wouldn't come personally to discuss this, but this warrants my personal attention...

I am willing to fight just about anybody as long as pay is good. So let us get straight to business, shall we? I just have a couple questions:

1. How much are you willing to pay?
2. Any idea how much heat the Army is packing here in the region? Seemed like quite a bit of firepower rolled into the Outer City and I need to plan accordingly.
3. Is this to be a defensive or offensive contract? I can hardly declare open-war on the entire Military presence in the Cape City. I fight battles, not wars. I would like additional information on the contract.
4. Any other factions going to be getting involved in this? I don't need any friendly-fire or anything.

Legion of Steel-Legion of Dire[GM Notice]
My engineers could likely figure something out; but I suppose training specialists would be useful.

For payment...would you accept [1 Cash] and [3 Tech]?

GM: This generator...how easy is it to move around? Basically, would moving it around need a seperate action or could it just be counted as part of the same actions as my Followers?

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire, Masquerade) [PM]
Maribel's latest words actually managed to leave the Oyabun speechless, for a short bit. After a few moments, he sighed.

"Huumph... Ronin did mention before his untimely demise, that we should never make the mistake of underestimating your talents, Hearn-dono. But I must say, you are truly full of surprises."

"Well then. Yes, I suppose that would be the safer course of action. It would necessarily mean that the bulk of the recompense for this rescue operation should go to you too, Hearn-dono. Such would be only fair, I suppose."

Sanctuary [PM]
Maribel (OOC)
Yeah, I was beginning to figure it was something of the sort. Thanks for the offer anyway.

[UntrainedMonkey]

Hugh Donovan

To Maestro
Seems fair to me. Power right now is a weird one. See, I just know things. I know how to change closed systems. I don't know how to explain it any further.

OOC: The way Thel described my power is that it's basically Mannequin's power.

[NM020110]

Maribel

Kamakura-kai HQ[PM]

Maribel simply smiles, then turns back to the chair.

"Very well, then. One thing first."

The incredibly intricate device which was resting on the table falls through it, and a soft whumph can be heard. A skull-shaped device rises from the table in its place.

Maribel then focuses, causing the pressure to return at several times the force.


Thelonius[SM]

Alright, I'll be spending the three actions necessary on the aforementioned action. Thank you.


Sanctuary[PM]

Kamakura-kai[OOC]

It's not quite off the table, just that the price is far too high at the moment. About my luck so far I'll end up gaining the power to bring people back to life at some point...maybe when I manage to get back to full power in ~3 months.

Unit Blue

"I understand. I've seen quite a few people suffering from that, because of their beliefs and goals. But, you seem to be interested in rather more pleasant subjects of conversation.

"Is there anything in particular you'd like to talk about?"

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Splicer [M]

Most excellent. Thank you for the information, and good luck in your enterprise.


Event [PM]

The driver of the first armored truck leans out the window. "Transporting Mr. Grey and Ms. DeGuarre to Fort Kronus," he says, clearly bored. "You want to move your stuff there? You're blocking the road."


Adrian Banks [M]

Well, then. Perhaps we will abandon our plans for the Docks. Thank you for the information, and I hope you remain in good health.


Unit Blue [M]

I see. Well, thank you anyway, and please do alert me if you do come across anything.

On an unrelated note, I don't suppose you know of someone named Anton Durnwood? He is, supposedly, an independent contractor who works with the CCP, if that helps.

[ArcaneStomper]

Shaper

To the Masquerade (M)
What. Exactly. Is. Your. Offer.

To Hugh Donovan (M)
You. Are. The. Cause. Of. This. Interesting. Anomaly. Then.

Very. Well. I. Will. Be. There. Shortly.

PM
Within a few moments the Shaper surfaces near the two humans ignoring the toxic atmosphere. A metallic voice emits from the ungainly figure.

Mr. Donovan. An. Interesting. Effect. You. Have. Created. Here.

And. Who. Is. Your. Guest.

I. Am. Surprised. To. Find. Anyone. Else. In. Here.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Legion of Steel
(GM Notice)

"THE EXCHANGE IS EQUITABLE. VERY WELL. SEND YOUR TRAINEES TO THE RAILWAY STATION."

The trainees show up to find the Railway Station doors opening to them, allowing them through the fortifications. They are greeted in the ruined rotunda by what looks to be a metal skeleton (think terminator) with a vague holographic outline of a man wearing a decent suit and a comedy mask on his face. "Hey hey! Glad you could make it! Name's Hardakker.exe. Let's do some training! First, you're gonna need to construct more pylons..."

(Spending a faction action and having Hardakker train the Legion of Steel techies. Oh, and collect payment.

Mind you, I'm still studying that generator. The Reverse Engineering is gonna take time.)

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Legion of Dire[GM Notice]
[Spending an action to have a team of engineers train with Hardakker.exe on how to use the shield generator. Sending 1 Cash and 3 Tech with them. My actions are gonna be all gone by the time EoT rolls around...]

A half-dozen of the Legions best engineers arrive at the Station, ready to train. Though they are more suited to building bridges and fortifications--or destroying them if needed--for the Legions operations, but should be simple enough for them to learn

[UntrainedMonkey]

Hugh Donovan

To Shaper [PM]
You're surprised? What about me? I make an area too toxic for anyone to live in and then people start showen up like it's some sorta party. Yeah, I made this. Thought that it'd keep Admin Site C away from me for a while. Also, this is the Pharmacist. He's hiding out here with me for right now.

[ArcaneStomper]

To Hugh Donovan (PM)
Not. A. Very. Lively. Party.

Still. This. Does. Not. Seem. Very. Suitable. For. Maintaining. Secrecy.

To. Be. Sure. It. Will. Keep. People. Away. At. First.

But. Then. More. Will. Come. And. They. Will. Have. Equipment. To. Survive. Here.

They. Will. Want. To. Know. What. Is. Causing. The. Blight.

From. Curiosity. If. Nothing. Else.

A. More. Hidden. Location. Would. Be. Quieter.

And. Could. Still. Be. Made. Toxic.

The Shaper pauses and then turns slightly towards the Pharmacist.

Also. I. Have. Been. Considering. Finding. You.

I. Have. A. Proposition. For. You.

[Thelonius]

[partial update - sleepy]

Kamakuri-Kai HQ

Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Doctor Dire [PM]

Dr. Shea was sitting in the chair, surrounded by villains. Doctor Dire, Marribel and men of Kamakuri-Kai...


Violence

While the riots calm down in First District, the tensions spread across the city. Unrest in Robintown, fear in Walls, murders in Junks. Trent Town maintains order through strong patrols. As if smelling blood to come, the beast in men emerges...

Superstition

Everybody knows that Magic Powers are just slightly crazier regular Powers. After all what talk can there be of magic in this age of technology? Even poorly understood Powers must be rooted in science somehow.

Yet when the man is confronted with darkness, when things go bad without rhyme or reason, when no course of action offers itself, we are quick to abandon our rationality in favor of doing something that may seem it could help. When the cause and effect have no rational link between them, like lucky charm or fear of evil eye, - does it not feel like magic?

As tension leads to fear in the Walls, superstition blooms and in the center of this baffling display ignorance and blindness stands a single figure. Shadowman. Dr. Ledau. Was the crow that cried ‘’Hunger!’’ a mere spliced pet of Ledau’s or a mystic messenger delivering a warning? Were the rumors born out of some primal insight and gut feeling or carefully engineered lies Ledau spinned? Were the real changes in fortune, did the mystical symbols work or was it all trickery and sleight of hand. And what was in that pie?

Ledau... That man is certainly a charlatan, say the rational people. But when the sun sets and chilly wind blows, for every sceptic, another one succumbs to the superstition....

Serpentine Diabolic

Unroot

Serpentine Diabolic supports the evidence against the MISA with their well-made points and calls for the people to do something. And so slowly the momentum is gained - people bringing information that might be relevant, discussions over various points of evidence, call for greater support.

Andraste [PM]

She pauses. ‘’I talked to Maestro. Hopefully he got the message. If not, I’ll just have to pay him a visit.’’


Internal [PM]

[7] Cash is a decent amount - a fortune for a single man, but not as much for major corporations for example.

MISA info looks legit.


Legion of Dire

Night Crews [M]

Well, what are you building, Doctor? We aren’t exactly a bank to be giving loans, but if you tell us what to expect, maybe we’ll be interested.


Robin

Adrian Banks [M]

Myself and whatever locals would prove to be of use. I realize Robintown is comfortable relative to Docks, but if you compare it to Cape City?

The plans are being drawn at the moment. This month Alchemist will be fixing underground damage - your men might feel ground shaking. Please don’t be alarmed of that. By that time we’ll be working on a plan for the new Docks.


Masquerade

Cape City Administration [M]

There doesn’t seem to be much regulations about underground construction.


Shaper/Hugh Donovan

Pharmacist [M]

''Can't say I like the idea of my location being revealed in Mesh. If somebody is tracking me or you... But I guess getting here will be tricky. What is your offer?''

[NM020110]

Maribel

Kamakura-kai HQ[PM]

Maribel seemed rather tired, but unsurprised by the appearance of Dr. Shea. Still, she stood and bowed, while watching the doctor carefully.

"My apologies for the sudden relocation. I am told that you are Dr. Shea. I am Maribel Hearn, and have brought you here in an attempt to prevent an incident.

"It is my hope that I haven't interrupted anything of great importance in doing so. To ensure that this was not the case, might I inquire as to your status?"

[ArcaneStomper]

Shaper

To Hugh Donovan [PM]
You. Were. Not. Mentioned. Over. The. Mesh.

They. May. Well. Track. Me. Here. But. They. Should. Not. Associate. Me. With. You.

At. Worst. I. Can. Evacuate. All. Of. Us.

My. Proposition. Stems. From. Two. Areas. Of. Concern.

The. First. Is. That. I. Anticipate. Requiring. Substantial. Amounts. Of. Money. In. The. Coming. Months.

To. Date. I. Have. Taken. Several. Contracts. Which. Have. Fulfilled. My. Needs.

But. I. Would. Prefer. A. More. Permanent. Solution.

The. Second. Is. That. The. Chaos. In. The. City. Has. Increased. Lately.

Which. Impacts. My. Activites.

Not. Least. In. The. Causes. Of. This. Chaos. Are. The. Large. Number. Of. Addicts. Who. Cannot. Get. Their. Fixes.

These. Problems. Present. A. Common. Solution.

Providing. Drugs. To. The. City. Would. Calm. The. Populace.

And. Provide. A. Source. Of. Income.

Unfortunately. While. I. Can. Develop. A. Distribution. Network.

I. Lack. A. Supply.

You. On. The. Other. Hand. Are. Obviously. Unable. To. Sell. Anything.

As. You. Are. Being. Hunted.

But. I. Assume. You. Can. Still. Produce. Supplies. Of. Drugs. Given. Appropriate. Materials. To. Work. With.

A. Partnership. Presents. Itself.

The Shaper turns to Donovan.

And. You. Likely. Have. Something. To. Contribute. As. Well. Given. The. Effectiveness. Of. These. Toxins.


Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ[PM]
Dr. Shea folds her hands in her lap and considers the surrounding people for a moment.

"I am rather tired I must admit. Quite tired physically and somewhat tired that I keep getting snatched without any say so. I don't particularly care for the way people keep treating me like a pawn just because of who I associate with."

"May I ask who you all are and where I am now."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire, Masquerade, Dr Shea) [PM]
Though the men of the Kamakura-kai tensed, some of them with their hands drifting to their sidearms, the mobsters in the room arrested their collective reflex when the Oyabun coughed pointedly. Silent, he simply regarded Dr Shea coolly for several moments, before Shifu behind him chose that particular moment to make a subtle hand gesture.

The well-dressed mobsters got busy instantly; moving every which way, the gangsters procured chairs for everyone present (a reinforced one just for Dr Dire, of course), and they somehow set a round table right in front of Dr Shea and the rest. A couple of them showed Mirage in, and the Oyabun turned to greet the Masquerade representative.

"Mirage-san, glad you could join us. As you can see for yourself, we have secured Dr Shea. I am glad you are here today, for I'm fairly sure we can use your expert advice, yet. Now come, everyone, let's have a seat."

The Kamakura-kai head said, settling down as his men brought tea for everyone involved. Those nearest Maribel were looking especially closely at her, as if in anticipation of any particular special requests from the woman.

"Now then. Dr Andrea Shea, as you can imagine, I have so many questions for yourself. But first, what may I do to make you more comfortable?"

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ (Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Doctor Dire) [PM]
"Well you can get me a mesh connection. I haven't been able to access my mesh accounts in some time, and I'm sure Frederick is getting worried."

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to the Night Crews [M]

"THREE WORDS. PORTABLE FORCE FIELDS."


Legion of Dire
Kamakura-Kai Headquarters
to Doctor Shea, Kamakura-Kai, Maribel, Masquerade [PM]

"DOCTOR. YOUR COMPANION, MISTER WITTERS, WAS CONVINCED THAT YOU WERE BEING HELD IN DURANCE VILE."

"AND AS SUCH, THE PEOPLE HERE ARRANGED TO REMOVE YOU FROM CAPTIVITY, AND DELIVER YOU TO THIS LOCATION."

"DIRE'S ROLE IN THIS IS MINOR. MERELY EMERGENCY EVACUATION, TECHNICAL ADVICE IF NEED BE, AND IRONICALLY ENOUGH, MUSCLE, IN THE EVENT THAT MORE CAME THROUGH THAN SIMPLY YOURSELF."

"WERE YOU INDEED CAPTURED BY ENEMIES? AND IF SO, DO YOU KNOW THE IDENTITY OF THOSE WHO THUS GAVE YOU THE DAMSEL TREATMENT?"

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire, Masquerade, Dr Shea) [PM]
"That, I cannot do."

The Oyabun said genially, but firmly.

"Understand this, my dear Dr Shea. For you see, I am reasonably certain those who took you will discover the fact of your disappearance before long, and they will come seeking you. And, if my assumption as to the identity of your captors bears out, they will be seeking your presence on MESH, as well. They have some respectable capability in that regard, and that is something I have had to learn the hard way before."

"You understand what this means, do you not, Dr Shea? For you to access your MESH account, at this moment, will likely mark yourself out as a beacon to your captors. You would bring disaster on this here my humble abode, simply by attempting to communicate with your compatriot Mr Witters via the usual methods. That, I cannot allow."

Said the Kamakura-kai head, clasping his hands before his face.

"Of course, my intention is such that I do not wish to keep you from re-establishing contact with Mr Witters indefinitely. At your behest, we shall make alternative arrangements in that regard. But, first of all, perhaps there are other matters that my fellow acquaintances would like to bring up?"

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
Kamakura-Kai HQ
(Dr. Shea, Kamakura-Kai, Maribel, Masquerade) [PM]
(GM NOTICE)

"MM. WHILE WE ARE DISCUSSING... DO YOU HAVE ANY ACTIVE ELECTRONIC DEVICES UPON YOUR PERSON? ONLY COMMON SENSE TO PLANT A TRACER ON THE HOSTAGE. LET US SEE IF THEY DID SO..."

Dire pulls out a Dire detector, and begins scanning Doctor Shea, supplementing with her armor's on-board sensor suite.

[Forum Explorer]

Administrative Site C

To Kindly Doctor
You know if you want to improve your reputation perhaps you should take a shot at curing the blight?

To Dr. Dire, Kamakura-Kai, Maribel, Maestro and Robin.
Prophet may have suffered a defeat but he is still alive. Do any of you know where he could be? and if so are you interested in teaming up to take him down permanently.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Administrative Site C, Kamakura-Kai, Maribel, Maestro, and Robin

"MMM, THE PROPHET. A THORNY SITUATION, YET ONE THAT MUST BE DEALT WITH."

"DIRE IS NOT IN A GOOD POSITION TO ACT AGAINST THE PROPHET THIS MONTH. POSSIBLY THE NEXT."

"HOWEVER, A THOUGHT OCCURS. THE PROPHET, DURING HIS BROADCAST, WENT OUT OF HIS WAY TO MAKE MATTERS CLEAR THAT HE WAS NOT SEEKING CONFLICT AGAINST THE JUNK MAGE. IT IS TRUE HE IS A TECHNOPHOBE, BUT SOMETHING ABOUT THE WAY HE PHRASED IT..."

"IF SOMEONE CAN SPARE THE TIME TO VISIT THE JUNK MAGE... WHILE REMAINING ON GUARD OF COURSE, THEN USEFUL INFORMATION, OR A STRONG ALLY MAY BE GAINED IN THE MATTER."

"AND IT WILL HAVE TO BE AN IN-PERSON VISIT. THE JUNK MAGE SEEMS TO HAVE NO MESH CONNECTION."

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ (Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Doctor Dire) [PM]
"Well to answer your questions in reverse order. I have lots of electronics on me. The last thing I did before my lab was overrun was go on a bit of an expedition so I have all my field equipment. And of course my micro computer. I don't know if anyone has planted a tracer on them though. For all I know there have been tracers even before I got nabbed. I've never checked."

Dr. Shea self consciously pats her lab coat. The many many sewn on pockets of which are obviously full of various bits and pieces of equipment, notes, and random debris.

She turns to the Oyabun, "I can't say I'm surprised. No offense but you don't look like you're all that keen on letting me get a connection back to Frederick. You know he could be here in maybe an hour. Probably a lot faster than anyone could trace the mesh and send anyone after me. And after that I'd be safe back in the under city. I only got grabbed in the first place because I came up for a bit of fresh air. And I'm not going to do that again any time soon. If you're really worried one of you could access the mesh for me. There are messages you could send that he would know are from me."

She turns back to Dire, "Now as to my capture. I don't know if I would really call them enemies. They were very polite. Said it was for my own safety. But they hustled me out of there really quick. And I have no idea what they eventually intended or if they were telling the truth. They could have been anyone I guess. They had some fancy looking gear and black armor. That could be the government, maybe not even the US government, or it could be any fairly well financed group."

She pauses and looks at Maribel, "Wait I remember they said that someone named named Marribel was after. So uh, maybe they were telling the truth."

Dr. Shea visibly tenses and looks around the room warily.

[Lost Demiurge]

Kamakura-kai HQ
(Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Masquerade) [PM]
(GM NOTICE)

"HM. IF YOUR CAPTORS WERE GOVERNMENT, THEN THEY WOULDN'T NEED TRACERS. PHONE AND MICROCOMPUTER, TURN THEM OFF AND REMOVE THE BATTERIES. QUICKLY NOW. ANYTHING ELSE MESH-ENABLED AS WELL."

"IN THEIR SILENCE, WE SHALL SEE WHAT IS BROADCASTING OUTWARDS..."

[Cognimancer]

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
Mirage sat quietly at the corner of the table, observing Dr. Shea's (surprisingly calm) reaction to her sudden relocation. "Not much to go off of, is it," she said, frowning. "We're dealing with someone who knows to keep hostages - if that's the best way to describe the situation - away from sensitive information. Looks like the only hint here is in your department, Maribel."

Shaper
A mid-sized tunnel, stretching from somewhere in the northern Factories to the southern Industrial District. Like you said, the tunnel construction shouldn't constitute much risk itself. We'll offer [6 Cash] in payment, though that's negotiable, and cash isn't the only form of recompense we have to offer.

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ (Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Doctor Dire) [PM]
"I don't know if I want to. Why should I even trust you guys. They didn't hurt me and they warned me that someone named Marribel was looking for me. And now poof here I am yanked right out of complex they put me in by someone named Marribel."

She briefly glances at Marribel, "I really want to know how you did that by the way. Can I take some observations of you later."

Then she turns back to the main group.

"Why should I trust any of you? I don't know anyone here except Dr. Dire, and that only by association. And you won't let me contact the only person I know for sure I can trust. If there is a tracer on me, maybe I should wait for them to come and get me out of this."

She leans back and shrinks in her chair a bit. "Go on tell me why."

"And you should probably do it quick too if something really is broadcasting a trace."

Thelonius (GM)
How many actions would it take to dig the tunnel that Masquerade wants?

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
With a nod from the Oyabun, the men of the Kamakura-kai began shutting off what electronics were present in the building, with the organisation head and Shifu themselves switching off their devices as well. That done, the Oyabun turned back to Dr Shea.

"I am afraid I will not allow that either, though this is for your own safety than anything else. You see, this you might not be aware of, but your base of operations has since been rigged, in your absence, with enough explosives to produce a reasonable facsimile of Hiroshima. Allowing you to return there would simply be equivalent to letting you die spectacularly, for no real reason. No, for better or for worse, you are my guest here for the time being, Dr Shea."

"While we are at it. I suppose there is even less doubt now that this was the work of the Syndicate. Would you not say so, Hearn-dono?"

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ (Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Doctor Dire) [PM]
Dr. Shea pales a little at this revelation and then shakes her head.

"Well it doesn't matter anyway. Revealing our presence was a mistake in the first place. We were going to make a new base somewhere else. Somewhere hidden."

"Although, I guess it's probably a good thing you told me before I tried to scavenge my old lab for equipment."

She sighs, "I suppose I can always turn things back on if I need to." Reaching into her coat she pulls out a small laptop which she turns off then flips over and removes the battery case. Then she rummages around in her coat turning off various devices and pieces of equipment.

[NM020110]

Maribel

Kamakura-kai HQ[PM]

OOC: I've had to re-write this post three times now due to the conversation advancing while I was writing...that's some really high activity.

At Dr. Shea's mention of her name, Maribel tilts her head slightly, and the air starts to buzz slightly with curiosity.

"Interesting, that they would have known. Unless they were speaking of it in the approximately...two minutes before your relocation, that would give them knowledge of what would happen before I was aware of a need to retrieve. A precognitive power, then...

"As to your request to study me, I'm afraid that you have yet to earn my trust in that regard."

"On the messages, I'm afraid that you don't interest me further than that several acquaintances were preparing to attack what I suspect was a far superior foe to rescue you. Quite frankly, I wonder if you are representing the truth accurately in this case, and as such suspect that your messages will be cause for Shaper to attack this location. As such, I will not volunteer to send them.

"As I had thought of contacting Shaper at some point for a construction, I have no wish to make an enemy there. As for why you should have any trust for us, I will point to two things. First, you are presently a guest of Mr. Kamakura, who has given his word that he has no intent to bring you harm. Breaching that would place himself and his family in an unenviable state. Secondly, if I personally wished you harm, you would be harmed. As I have only moved you from one location to another, my intents should be relatively clear."

Maribel is presently carrying only a smart phone. She glances at it, causing it to die.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
The Oyabun nods at that, looking quite genial.

"I would question the wisdom of repeating your strategy for securing a base of operations for yourselves, Dr Shea, considering it has already been demonstrated that such could be compromised, as evidenced by the cornucopia of explosives currently sitting in your old laboratory. But, that would be your call at a future point in time, I suppose."

"In any case, I hope the fact that I alerted you to the unsafe conditions of your old base has won me at least a modicum of your trust? If so, perhaps this will gain even more of it. Our move to extract you from your captors - or your hosts, as you so insist - was, in fact, at the behest of Mr Witters himself. You may corroborate the matter with him, once we have managed to obtain a more secure means of communications between him and yourself."

Even as the Oyabun was speaking, Maribel's words caught the attention of Shifu, who looked at her with not a small amount of concern. Then, he made a hand gesture no one else at the table had seen before, and the men of the Kamakura-kai suddenly leapt into action, going this way and that in the building in a sudden flurry of activity, apparently carrying out an unspoken but urgent order.

That done, Shifu leaned over to whisper in the Oyabun's ear, who nodded in response, but did not volunteer what he had heard to the rest of the table. At least, not yet.

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ (Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Doctor Dire) [PM]
Dr. Shea considers Marribel and then simply says, "A pity, I can always use more data."

Then she returns her full attention to the Oyabun, "Last time we, or I really, announced our location to everyone. Before events overtook us we were planning to open a quite legitimate business. We had plans to do a bit of freelance research work, maybe help the surrounding people out a bit."

"Then they attacked us and looted my lab." Dr. Shea is grimaces angrily, "This time we were going to park our new lab in the deepest bit of rock Frederick could find. He's probably already started work on it, although he can't do the important bits without me."

"Also I don't quite believe you about Frederick asking you to help. He doesn't trust many people and you are not on that list. I expect he would wait for the people who grabbed me to contact him, follow their agents back to their base, and tear it apart looking for me."

She considers, "Or he might leave me their and work for them depending on what exactly the terms were. He's fairly pragmatic."

"But in any case if he did contact you to get me back why won't you send a message to him from me? And since you won't what else do you want to discuss with me?"

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
"Hmmm."

Was the Oyabun's only response for the time being, while his men continued milling around the place, doing whatever it was they were doing. After a while, he spoke.

"I suppose you are right, in one thing. I was not the point of contact with Mr Witters, in this matter. As for who that is..."

He pauses, glancing meaningfully at Dr Dire, before resuming.

"Nevertheless, we - or rather Hearn-dono, for the most part - have gone to great lengths to secure your liberty, and in the process saved Mr Witters a great deal of trouble and, I daresay much danger, especially if it was the Syndicate who had... forcibly acquired your person. Therefore, I will be blunt. Surely, we are entitled to a little recompense for our sacrifices in some respect?"

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ (Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Doctor Dire) [PM]
"What sort of recompense?"

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
"In kind, I would presume."

The Oyabun said, looking in Maribel's direction.

"I shall allow Hearn-dono the first and greatest request, for she has done more than anyone else around her, myself included, to secure your liberty."

[NM020110]

Maribel

Kamakura-kai HQ

Maribel is apparently deep in thought...or just taking a short nap, and starts when she is referred to. She seems confused for a moment, then settles down.

"Extorting her already? Really?

"Right, first I'll make one thing clear. If you're uncomfortable with my requests, or otherwise have cause to refuse, feel free to do so. I'll find something else.

"As for the request...eh, I can't think of much at the moment. Maybe some construction, since your companion has proven himself in that field?"

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
Kamakura-kai HQ (Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai) [PM]

Dire crosses her arms and examines Doctor Shea, simply looking her over.

She shakes her head, but says nothing.

[Tin Lamb]

Kamakura-Kai[M]
Some more detail on the natural dangers of the location would be prefferable. Is it the recent Blight? Short exposure would likely not be an issue.

-Street Legal

Dr. Dire[M]
Excellent, it's good to hear you can help someway with the plague. Odd we've not been in touch already, your presence in the Docks area has been quite interesting to us. We do like our secrecy I suppose, and we're certainly not military.

Street Legal, as the miltary would put it, are special operations agents. Espionage, extraction, etc. And we're interested in helping your goals.
-Red

Hugh[M]
When you've got the time.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire, Masquerade, Dr Shea)[PM]
"Extortion? Nay, Hearn-dono, that is not how I like to think of it. You see, Dr Shea here has made it abundantly clear that she has no trust in me, despite what I have done for her. And I, in turn, have been forced to hold little faith that she will not leave us high and dry, or worse still even let our good deeds go unpunished. Therefore, I must default to the basic form of interaction with Dr Shea; negotiation, business transactions. Perhaps more civil interactions could be had once we have both gotten a better measure of the other, but for the time being, this is regrettably necessary."

The Oyabun replied in response to Maribel, settling back in his chair.

"Mirage-san, I must apologise for taking up your time; it appears we should not have need of your fighting forces, after all. However, you need not necessarily leave here empty-handed. Would you perhaps like to negotiate an arrangement with Dr Shea, to provide her secure communications and rendezvous with Mr Witters, in exchange for one of her favours to your own organisation?"

Thelonius [GM]
OOC: What would it cost me to 'go to the mattresses' in preparation for possible attacks from the US Army or Syndicate this Mid-Turn?

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic

Andrian Banks[M]

Very well, since you accept investors may i make an appointment to come and discuss your terms?
We are interesting in investing up to [8 cash] and perhaps a bit more depending on your terms.



Andraste[PM]

There was silence for a moment before Nianta smiled...in a smile that was unsettling and reached the limits of the uncanny valley "heh, it was you who shot Maestro eh?, damn good job although you are now a target in his eyes hmmm be safe Andraste i have seen many people die in the past thinking someone was just a thug.....pretty sure he has a power that i don't know about and i think he may or may not be in an Alliance with Splicer and maybe Dire....oh well could be wrong...............see you around i guess."
With that being done even if Andraste was here Nianta would call the doc to help her friend warning him about the implant and wanting him to do a general check up on her after operating on Rose.
((faction action for this or one from Rose?))


To The collective,Goats[M]

by AJokeOfaRiddle (the woman who started everything with just a poem...:smallcool:).

Greetings looks like people are coming forward, are you interested in helping against MISA?

((tell me if they do anything or accept)).


Sensei[M]

by SnakeyVoltage(you know the one who raised all those points and helped people rise against the machine er MISA that is, ditto if she will be recognized).

Greetings Sensei
You are highly respected by many and looked up by more
What is your opinion/thoughts on MISA?


Internal[PM]

Hmm cool.
Okay time to recruit some people, using my new fame and my past fame for helping people(1 point a couple of turns back) i will attempt to recruit from the university people against MISA(i got influence there), Neta will be the one to spearhead the effort (spending one vip action to find trustworthy people that will help, she is a student there here and some months you wont tell me she doesnt know the cliques? or at least some people who we can trust a bit).

On unrelated notes how much total cash i got (should be fourteen or thirteen right?? since i pretty much started with eleven or so i had last turn and this turn doesn't look like i spent any of it in my eot so its plus three). Also spending one more point from this vip for her to try helping organize the information flow.

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Street Legal
Greetings. You mind sending someone over? I have need of your talents in the field of espionage.

[Thelonius]

Unit Blue

Adrian Banks [PM]

The Banks Tower used to be one of the highest buildings in the Cape City, before Sun Tower eclipsed it. The view from the window at the top is breathtaking. The Cape City looks so right - a perfect geometrical figure, that looks beautiful in itself.

Banks looks much better than he was in Mesh broadcast. He put some weight, moving from gaunt to healthy and Tune suspects that it’s muscles rather than fat. The Red Android... Tune heard the name Red Queen mentioned somewhere in Mesh, stands to the left side of the table. It turns its head, wordlessly looking at Tune. If Tune was an assassin, coming to kill Adrian Banks, he’d probably be dead by now... A scary thought.


Sensei [M]

I’ll try to check his past activities, especially those focused on Outer City. Maybe I’ll discover something.


Lightbringers [PM]

A white rat jumps out of darkness and it’s huge. It looks at Radikal and moves it’s paw as if beckoning him to follow. It is beckoning him! He walks after, as she scampers forward. They end up in a large tent at the edge of a tent town. There aren’t many permanent buildings in this section of Walls.

There are two people there, both looking under twenty. One is Swarm and the white rat jumps into her hands. The other Radikal doesn’t know. He taps on the screen and a head of somebody resting on a bed appears. Prism, leader of the Lightbringers.


Menor Compadres [M]

Well, Prometheus maybe. Not certain I understand what you mean by merging out areas in Junks?


Fort Kronus [PM]

Ruby is led to the office of General Brockton. There are signs of recent destruction and repairs all around. There’s a lot of activity as well - new soldiers arriving, crates being unloaded and vehicles moving. Ruby catches only a glimpse of it, as she is whisked inside the building, where the meeting takes place.

General Brockton views her with critical eyes. ‘’Well, let’s start talking about your future. First, you are affiliated with Menor Compadres. We will need them to surrender in our custody. Their crimes are minor and if they agree to reform, I doubt they’ll serve any sentence. Second, you have worked with a number of groups in the Outer City and have an insider’s perspective. That information can help end this conflict fast and clean, with minimal loss of life.’’


Inquirer [M]

While we can do it, you must realize, that it would be greatly overshadowed by the US Army war against Outer City gangs. You must realize what sort of news the public would focus on.


Blaze [M]

‘’The news do appear to be of two minds over who exactly triumphed. I guess it’s no - ‘’we did it by working together’’ thing. I’d be interested to work, but what exactly is your plan to deal with them?’’


Anise Seed [M]

‘’Junks are not well suited for farming, but every obstacle can be defeated with sufficient effort. If you establish production, you can apply to join our global food distribution initiative, though it would require high quality of the product.’’


Shaper

Pharmacist [M]

The proposition is sound. All I need is a safe location, packaging and access to some materials, you can buy in a supermarket. I dealt with you before Shaper and you delivered on your part of the bargain. A fellow professional.


Internal [PM]

Not certain what midsized means. If it’s to let a person get through, then 2 Actions


Kamakuri-Kai

Internal [PM]

Well... Whatever resources you put into it. There are many ways to prepare.


Serpentine Diabolic

Adrian Banks [M]

Certainly, let us meet.


Andraste [PM]

‘’I get the same vibe from him as from Cradle. I wouldn’t be surprised if his Power is some sort of mind manipulation, so be careful. And don’t assume Implants would protect you against every attack.’’


Goats [M]

We’ll help out, since it’s clear who is behind MISA’s corruption. Shadow governments trying to censor Mesh against free thinking.


Sensei [M]

I do not see MISA as monolithic evil. There are good intentions there along with misguided. However, I do believe the evidence, that somebody might be trying to use MISA’s resources to further their own agendas. And that we need to stop.


Internal [PM]

Duly noted. You’ve got 16 Cash.


Administrative C

Kindly Doctor [M]

I assume the blight appeared, because somebody wanted it. So by curing it, I will come in conflict with whoever did it. I’d rather avoid provoking hostilities. If blight begins to threaten Greendale... But at this point it does not.


Legion of Dire

Night Crews [M]

‘’Somewhat useful true. Make it [1] Cash discount from production cost and we’ll help you out.’’


Lockwood-Coban

Event [PM]

The level of tension rises as soon as Fort Kronus is mentioned. The soldiers tighten their grip on weapons and the eyes of officers dart to take in the opponent’s numbers and position.

‘’I’m afraid the road is blocked for all non-authorized traffic.’’ the officer in charge speaks. The LCAI convoy outnumbers his forces and they are armed with an equivalent of rocket-rifles. Then again Chains reinforcements would be close by and if for example the road is mined, no amount of HTM-50’s will prevent them going up. Plus Brotherhood weaponry they received recently...

It looks like the Chains officer received some message in his earpiece, because he speaks again ‘’As I’ve said the road is blocked, you’ll need to use another route. I can wire you directions on your pocket screen. It’ll take just a bit longer.’’ His face remains stone cold and tone professional.


Legion of Steel

Chains Militia [PM]

We’ll pay you 25 Cash and 20 Cash equivalent in high-tech weapons. The latter will be delivered prior the battle.

They have General Brockton, a skilled commander. He’ll bring troops fresh from victory. Probably around [80]-[120] in manpower. Technology, a mix of force fields, power suits and firepower, as well as a force of drones.

Your job will be to defend the routes from Junks to Greendale, so they can’t encircle us. And you’ll need to keep pressure on their flank. Their main offensive would be against Trent Town. You’ll need to force them to divide their forces to defend against you. Your contract would be for this US Army offensive only. You must make sure we hold Trent Town in the following [Turn].

We suspect a number of anti-government factions, like Anarchists and Autonomists to be involved.




============

Kamakuri-Kai [PM]


Even as the Oyabun was speaking, Maribel's words caught the attention of Shifu, who looked at her with not a small amount of concern. Then, he made a hand gesture no one else at the table had seen before, and the men of the Kamakura-kai suddenly leapt into action, going this way and that in the building in a sudden flurry of activity, apparently carrying out an unspoken but urgent order.

That done, Shifu leaned over to whisper in the Oyabun's ear, who nodded in response, but did not volunteer what he had heard to the rest of the table. At least, not yet.

What was that about?


Doctor Dire [PM]

Your detector does detect electronic devices (though it was covered in PMs)

There were no Mesh signal detected, so either there were no bugs or they weren't active at the time.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To LCAI
Dear sir, I hope this message finds you well.

I have just received news that a convoy of yours has been detained by Chains patrols in the Trent Town district? Would you require any assistance in the matter?

Shifu

Thelonius [GM]
OOC: For a potential 'going to the mattresses' scenario. I'm thinking of doing a quick evac of the HQ, taking or destroying anything that might implicate the Kamakura-kai to the Syndicate, and moving everything to some other building that the Kamakura-kai might own in the Night District. What would that cost me?

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Night Crews [M]

"TCH. USURY! PROFITEERING! THEFT- OH, WAIT. KIND OF COMES WITH THE TERRITORY, REALLY."

"WELL, YOU ARE THE BEST THERE IS AT WHAT YOU DO. AND THE MORE OF YOU THERE ARE ALIVE TO DO IT, THE BETTER. VERY WELL. 1 CASH DISCOUNT PER BATCH FOR THE FIRST BATCH OR SO. AFTER THAT, IF YOU WANT MORE, WE CAN RENEGOTIATE."


Legion of Dire
to Kamakura-kai HQ (Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai) [PM]

Dire nods in satisfaction. "NO SIGNALS THAT DIRE CAN DETECT. YOU ARE CLEAN FOR NOW."


Legion of Dire
to Street Legal [M]

"ARE YOU NOW? HM... WELL, WE SHOULD TALK IN THE DAYS TO COME. HOW ARE YOU AT HEISTS?"

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
Mirage nodded at the Oyabun's suggestion. "I can certainly handle that," she said. "Dr. Shea, if you'd like to send any messages or meet with Mr. Witters, I can help you do so discreetly."

Thelonius [PM]
Spending an action to send a messenger to try to see the Junk Mage. I know some weird stuff is happening around the Tower, though I don't know what, so he's being cautious about approaching.

[CapJanus]

Unity

Sanctuary
Kamakura-kai
Like I was afraid of, a lot of the heroes are tied up. The Lightbringers, at least, are still open to working with me when I ask for their aid, but the Cogworks are busy and Andraste isn't interested in anything that might distract her from her war with Cradle. All things considered, I'm afraid we might need a greater force than that to go after someone as powerful as Shaper. I wish I was bringing better news, but this might have to wait.

Adrian Banks
Gotta say, Mr. Banks, usually you political types take a much longer route towards winning the hearts of the people! Not that I'm complaining, mind you, it looks like your return is already doing great things for the city and I'm always glad to hear someone who recognizes that not all Powers are bad.

There is one thing I'm curious about, what with you running for mayor and all. What are your thoughts on the Unification movement to bring the First District into Cape City proper? I've found them to be a positive organization and have lent them my support. I won't hold it against you if they aren't part of your campaign ideas, just wondering.

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Chains Militia[PM]
[Huh. Good thing I got alot of bullet monkeys for just such a task.]

That is... a disturbing amount of firepower they are brining to the table. But, then again, that is a large amount of pay...do we anticipate battle this [mid-turn] or at [EoT]?

Might I recommend you look into Street Legal as well? Though I don't know much about them, they are mercenary like me. Only difference is they are more suited to covert operations and those requiring more... finesse than my men can bring to the table, rather than open-war. If you hire them to perform hit-and-run raids on the Goverment flanks, it might help out.

Internal[PM]
The shield generator... you said it was bulky and required an action to ship to Dire. Does that action extend to the battlefield as well, or will it ust be counted as being part of my Followers action?

You got my PM, correct? I was having issues sending at the time so want to confirm.

Mave:
Mave is sent a transcript of the meeting with Chains. She can read the discussion and throw out any ideas she might have.

Well. a contract to fight the Goverment has arrived. What do you think of it?

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ (Maribel, Dr Dire, Masquerade, Dr Shea) [PM]
"Very well then. Dr Shea, I hope this gesture of goodwill, on our parts, will convince you that we meant you no harm or injury, and that we certainly do not intend to keep you confined against your will. I am sure that you will agree that, as you must take care of your own interests first and foremost, so must we."

The Oyabun nodded to Mirage and Dr Shea, and then turned his attention to Dr Dire.

"And now, it is Dire-sensei's turn, I believe. I give her the floor, so that she may explain why she deserves a favour from yourself, Dr Shea."

Sanctuary [PM]
To Unity
Oyabun: I see. Thank you of informing me of this matter, my dear friend.
Oyabun: I must confess, I have been a laggard in keeping yourself up-to-date with my organisation's plans, Mr Unity.

Oyabun: Currently, my intentions to deal with the Shaper has been shelved for the time being.
Oyabun: Instead, I am currently exploring the possibility of persuading him to make amends.
Oyabun: I feel this is necessary, for I am deeply concerned about the impending push by the US military.
Oyabun: I have cause to believe that Trent Town will see the fiercest fighting, and I am concerned about the impact it may have on the Night District and Sleepy Pines, and by extension our organisation, as well as Unit Blue.
Oyabun: Mr Unity, do you believe you can do anything in this regard?

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
"Your concerns are invalid. I am not a saint. If I thought it was in my best interests I certainly would leave you high and dry as you put it. But you aren't negotiating for my services. If you were then we would currently be discussing what sort of lab equipment you have and working out some sort of research time table. No what you want is Mr. Witters services. And once Mr. Witters agress to a deal he carries out his end of it no matter what."

"But I don't control him and he doesn't control me. We have a partnership. I can tell you what he is likely to accept and do some preliminary negotiations, but the final say on what he does is up to him. Which is why it would be much better if you negotiated directly with him, or at least let me contact him directly."

Pulling out a notepad she jots down a message and a node adress and hands it to Mirage, "Here send this to the address listed and Mr. Witters will know its from me."


Sir,

I have arrived at the hotel and find the conference equipment here to be poor, but at least in serviceable condition. The other side has arrived and we have engaged in some preliminary business negotiations, but something here smells fishy to me. I would appreciate it if you could send an analyst to help me look over the documents.

Mr. Smith

After passing the message she turns again to Marribel, "What sort of construction do you intend. Mr. Witters is quite good at construction, but there are things he cannot do such as installing the wiring."

OOC: The node address is just the Shaper's node address by the way.

Shaper

To Hugh Donovan (PM)
Give. Me. A. List.

And. I. Will. See. About. Acquiring. What. You. Need.

And. Building. A. Haven.

Do. You. Have. A. Preference. For. Location

To Masquerade (M)
It. Would. Depend. On. What. Your. Definition. Of. Midsized. Is.

For. A. Tunnel. To. Fit. A. Person. Then. Your. Offer. Would. Be. Acceptable.

But. I. May. Not. Be. Able. To. Finish. It. This. Month.

I. Have. Many. Other. Commitments. Already.

For. A. Tunnel. Larger. Than. That. Your. Offer. Is. Too. Low. For. The. Effort. It. Would. Require.

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
to Kamakura-kai HQ
(Dr. Shea, Marribel, Kamakuri-Kai, Masquerade) [PM]

"DESERVES?"
Doctor Dire waves a hand languidly.

"IT IS TRUE, THAT IT WAS WITTER'S WORDS TO DIRE'S INTERMEDIARY THAT MAY HAVE INFLUENCED THIS CHAIN INTO MOTION... BUT DIRE'S OWN PART IN YOUR RESCUE, DOCTOR SHEA, WAS MINIMAL."

"DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SUPERVILLAIN AND A VILLAIN, DOCTOR SHEA? THERE ARE SEVERAL, BUT THE PRIME ONE APPLICABLE TO THIS SITUATION IS THAT SUPERVILLAINS NEVER TREAT FORMER EMPLOYEES POORLY, UNLESS THE EMPLOYEE IN QUESTION DOES SOMETHING TO DESERVE IT. AS MISTER WITTERS HAS NOT DONE ANYTHING DESERVING OF RETRIBUTION, DIRE DEMANDS NOTHING FOR YOUR RETURN."

"AFTER ALL, THE KAMAKURA-KAI AND MARIBEL WENT TO FAR MORE TROUBLE TO ARRANGE THIS, AND THE MASQUERADE WILL BE HANDLING THE PARTICULARS WITH THEIR CONSUMNATE SKILL. THEY DESERVE ANY PARTICULAR REWARD FAR MORE THAN DIRE."

"ALTHOUGH YOU MAY PASS ALONG TO HIM THAT IF HE WISHES TO PAY THE PRODUCTION COST TO COVER THE LAST DEVICE DIRE IS MAKING FOR HIM, ONCE THE BLUEPRINT IS COMPLETE, IT WOULD BE APPRECIATED. IT IS NOT NECESSARY, AND HE SHALL RECIEVE IT REGARDLESS, BUT IT WOULD BE A GESTURE OF GOODWILL."

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Kamakura-kai HQ[PM]
Mirage takes the note and begins to quietly fiddle with a Mesh device.

Shaper
Apologies for the confusion. Yes, person-sized is fine; ideally large enough to walk upright but it doesn't need to transport vehicles or anything.

You also may be interested in this message:



Sir,

I have arrived at the hotel and find the conference equipment here to be poor, but at least in serviceable condition. The other side has arrived and we have engaged in some preliminary business negotiations, but something here smells fishy to me. I would appreciate it if you could send an analyst to help me look over the documents.

Mr. Smith

If you are interested in replying to Mr. Smith, I can arrange communications or a meeting.

[Murska]

Unit Blue - Adrian Banks [PM]

((Radical.))

Kevry bows slightly, unworried of being an assassin but still quite intimidated by the sheer presence of the man in front of him. He's a reckless individual, and having grown in the slums he isn't afraid of people with guns or knifes - there are methods to dealing with those. They can be understood. But here is a man who fights wars with weapons far beyond Radical's experience, somewhere above his head in the world of global economy and politics. It's the first time he is in the presence of that kind of influence, the high rooms where things get decided.

He feels small, but still. It's exhilarating. He kind of likes it.

"Greetings. It is an honour. My name is Kevry Bronx, though usually I'm called 'Radical'. I function as a member of a group in Outer City called Unit Blue."

Unit Blue - Lightbringers [PM]

Radical nods in respect. "Hello... as starters, before I make a fool out of myself as usual, could you tell me what your situation is? There are rumours but all I gather is that you managed to interrupt the Caretakers."

Unit Blue - Menor Compadres [M]

"Well, we've had the Government asking us a couple times now to get you to turn yourselves in. I've told them, in rather more polite terms as they are the ones holding all the guns, to go **** themselves and that it is your choice what you choose. But Prometheus as an organization is Cape-City based, rather than State, so they might act as a shield. I promise to make a lot of noise immediately over all the public channels I know if they start hunting you, but meanwhile you will likely need to stay quiet and out of any trouble. Deny them any excuse.

So, to the proposal: I feel the thrust of the fighting will be in Trent Town. I will need to work my best to ensure that civilians are safe, Sleepy Pines stays out of the battle and any atrocities by either side are documented and relayed to the outside world. In Junks, we both have certain regions where the people look up to us and depend on us for protection against any larger threats - I'm suggesting we have a single 'militia' organization out of the people living there to keep order and stop any ordinary crime, have the people band together and put what resources and aid from the City we get to use together to build lives for themselves and so on. Try and make a single community out of them, keep them safe and direct their efforts to being constructive, while keeping them out of trouble and away from the war. Cash from Prometheus would help us there, as would the publicity.

I trust you people. I hope you feel the same about me, and we have similar goals. Together, we've proven that we can achieve a lot more than individually - we should continue doing so. Decide together what to do, plan how to do it and then act.

As the first concrete thing, I plan on using the time when the Army is mucking things up in town to focus on finding and opposing Syndicate presence in the area. I guess that's a goal you'd be behind, right?"

Unit Blue - Blaze [M]

"Well, the Harvesters were taken out - that's a triumph. Who did it is immaterial. If the Army had let us know they were intending to come, or even bothered to respond to my message asking them for help... well, I guess they felt it was better to let us fight it out and take the losses first. From their point of view, it makes sense. And some good people died as a result.

Bitterness aside, I'm rather convinced that I'll use the chaos in the City to concentrate on the Syndicate. As for a plan - you can't really plan before you have information. I've got some traces to what are probably Syndicate servers, that I'm unable to breach by myself. If we focus on that, breach their security, we might be able to find more targets. Once we know where they are and what they are doing, we've got enough to plan how to get rid of them - we can count on a lot of help for that part, if we have something solid to present.

You with?"

Unit Blue - Inquirer [M]

"You're right, I guess. There's no room for peace, yet.

Tell me, Inquirer. You seem like a good man. What is it that you want? Why do you do what you do? What is your cause?"

Unit Blue - Fort Kronus [PM]

Right into business. The speed of the verbal offensive takes Ruby off balance for a moment. "I- um. Good day to you too, sir."

Trying to gather herself, she figures it's probably not a good idea to mess around here. She knows rationally that one of the reasons she was sent here was because there was no way the military could do anything to her - she had a camera on her sending data over Mesh to Tune, and if she disappeared or was poorly treated... well, it wouldn't be pretty. But those logical thoughts felt like they had very little weight when faced with the muscled men in uniform, carrying rifles and heavier guns, all backed with the faceless mass of sheer power granted by the authority and tradition of their organization.

"The Menor Compadres are good people, and allies. We would probably be dead without them. We're not going to tell them what to do, though we will relay your message if you wish to send one. But we will make sure they 'reform' as you say. You have to admit that people who live in places like the Junks, and cannot view the big picture of the entire nation, have understandable reasons to be wary of the authorities like you - you've left them hanging so many times. They've been abandoned, and they're not going to simply cheer and join the parade when you return."

As she speaks, she regains her confidence bit by bit. She has been in many debates about this, and she truly knows her home, the Outer City, and how it feels and thinks.

"There is a lot of pain and bitterness in this place. If you can convince us to trust you will change things for the better, then we will help you convince others to the best of our ability. But while defeating the guns and cannons of your enemies may be simple, winning the hearts and minds of the people is the only way to achieve a real victory here. And that is going to be difficult; you have effectively spent the last decades sabotaging your own chances."

Sanctuary - Maribel [PM]

"Well, mm..." She thinks for a moment. "What sort of music do you prefer?"

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
"How much cash would cover it?"

Shaper

To the Masquerade [M]
If. You. Can. Ensure. That. Mr. Smith. Remains. Safe.

Or. If. You. Tell. Me. Mr. Smith's. Current. Location.

Then. I. Will. Take. That. As. Full. Recompense. For. Your. Tunnel.

Although. It. May. Still. Take. Me. Several. Months. To. Finish.

Thelonius (GM)
How does action synchronicity work here. Because I have three actions I currently need to do.

1. Sweep the Harvesters.
2. Explore the Blight.
3. Find Dr. Shea.

Exploring the blight can probably be an EoT thing. And while I don't care when sweeping the harvesters happens I did list it as a midturn action. And finding Dr. Shea is an immediate concern.

Also if you want I can break down what Dr. Shea's message said when decoded.

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
Mirage pocketed the Mesh device. "Mr. Witters has been informed that you are safe, and will be able to return soon. Some of my agents will be ready to transport you whenever our business here is concluded."

Shaper
I can promise Mr. Smith's safety. He should be available to meet in person very shortly.

And that's fine about the tunnel. It is not urgent.

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
Kamakura-Kai HQ
[PM]

"UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME. EVENTS HAVE OVERTAKEN THE SCHEMATIC PRODUCTION. PROBABLY NOT MUCH IN THE GRAND SCHEME OF THINGS. IF THE PRODUCTION COSTS EXCEED (5 cash) DIRE SHALL BE SURPRISED."

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Dire, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]
OOC: Sorry for the late response.

"As far as Intel goes, I must admit I require more data. I have not fought the Exiles, but I do not believe they currently contract mercenary groups. That does not mean they never will."

"As for powers, my files do not show any indication a history of Power usage, but more subtle powers could be missed, I suppose."

"I apologise that my information is so thin, but my information gathering activities have taken a back seat in the combat of recent months."

[UntrainedMonkey]

Hugh Donovan

To Shaper and Pharmacist [PM]
Hmm, I'll think about joining yer crazy scheme. Got some other things that I need to get done. Friend o' mine wants to find some cure for the Dulls. Thought that I might try my hand at that, yer welcome to join me if you'd like Pharmacist. Also, offer still stands, join me. I could use someone to watch my back and I'm sure you could as well.

To Maestro
(Upon receiving the Database)
Perfect, I'll hold my end of the bargain just tell me what you need done and I'll see what I can do.

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Hugh Donovan
"A Pleasure doing business with you, Mr Donovan."

"I am somewhat unclear on the nature of your current power. Can you name some possible applications of it? Regardless, I would consider it a courtesy if you were keep me informed of the nature of your power when it changes."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Sanctuary [PM] (GM Note)
To Unit Blue
Oyabun: I have heard you were looking for this, Tune-san. Here you go, please find attached the dossier you wanted.

Thelonius [GM]
Using Sanctuary's MESH capability to send [Powers (People) 1] to Unit Blue.

[Orbiter]

Serpentine Diabolic

Adrian Banks [PM]

Finias came to his appointment well dressed groomed and shave, and if anyone kept a note happier than usual as well, he was holding a suitcase on one hand.
He spoke to the banker in a strained voice like someone who had cried until his throat had been perched.
"Greetings my name is Finias i have an appointment with the bank today where should i go?"

((Okay take control and guide me to speak to whoever i need to go for negotiations here Thel)).


Andraste [PM]

"Hmm i might sent someone to the Kindly Doctor then and....steal her design i guess...but shh dont tell her last thing i want is lose respect from someone with similar powers.
Heh anyhow i will try finding information on him next month should nothing get in my way.....it will go to the Lightbringers and i will tell them to tell you if its anything interesting or important, sounds good?"

((and what got in my way chronologically that i assume she saw is this mess with Unroot and me moving against MISA XD oh boy))


Goats [M]

Glad to have you aboard and hopefully we will be able to get them down

((The Collective dint respond? :smallamused: heh interesting, also can i change my previous action of controlling the information to doing so but together with the Goats and whatever stuff i am to do with them?)).


Sensei[M]

I see thank you for your input Sensei, look like your Virtue and Strength is prudence.

You got me wondering about that agenda though....next month i will try sending you what i find you are an okay guy as far as i am concerned and as our common acquaintance Riddle told me. :smallwink:.

See you around


Internal[PM]

Some changes and some stuff are the same look at my pm please.

[Murska]

Mesh - Unrooting MISA [M]

Tune: "In principle, MISA is not necessarily a bad thing. Most of us would agree that, while there should not be control, there needs to be some oversight to Mesh. People like the Syndicate and Cradle are using it, and many, many lesser criminals. Mesh is just as important, if not more so, than the physical world, for influencing events - it needs to be policed in some ways.

But not only does MISA go at it in the wrong way, misguided as they are to fight against those who aren't a threat instead of focusing on the ones that are, they are also corrupt. There are many good people working for MISA, whose ideals are that the wires be free of criminals and free to use.

We shouldn't aim to destroy MISA. We need to purge it. Remove the corrupt, the bastards trying to use it to advance their own interests. Make them do what they were meant to do, instead of what they've been twisted towards."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
Silent, the Oyabun spent a little too much time pondering Dr Shea's repeated insistence that Shaper be sent her message, that he reacted too late when Mirage took the initiative to fulfill Dr Shea's demand.

Glowering momentarily at the Masquerade representative, the Kamakura-kai head resumed his placid expression when he looked back at Dr Shea, and made a subtle hand gesture in a seemingly random direction. Then, he spoke.

"I suppose I can no longer stop the chain of events, now that it is in motion. But tell me, Dr Shea; just as you know nothing of myself or my organisation, I know just as much about you or your compatriot. What assurance do I have, that your coded message was not an instruction to forego parley, and immediately resort to violence?"

At the Oyabun's words, the atmosphere in the room turned heavier. Several of the mobsters were glancing at Dr. Shea, surreptitiously moving to stay out of each other's way and cover the room in case of trouble.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
Quiet Retrospection
(Fluff)

...And deep in her lair, Doctor Dire sits back and considers the poem she finally got around to reading, and the storm of discussion that it woke.

She looks around at her various creations, the devices, and odds and ends of a villainous career, and she remembers Unroot. Unroot and many others long lost, and long gone. Unroot, Architect, Captain Atlas, Semperfi... Dominus, Ablebaker Charlie, Lunar Lander, and countless more. Heroes, some. Villains, others. A few rogues here and there, but the longer you stay in the game, the harder it is to avoid choosing sides. But so many dead. So many gone. So many... Missed. The game was different now, but the ones who played by the rules- No. The ones who MADE the rules, are few and far between these days.

Unroot... She was special, in her own way. The impetus behind certain aspects of Dire's robot designs, and her own software work, in some ways. Not a direct influence, more of a reaction to Unroot's awe-inspiring abilities. Always difficult to work around those.

Normal people mourn the loss of old friends.

World Conquerors, as it turns out, mourn the loss of old foes. What else is there for them?

Her fingers hover over the AR display, as she considers the discussion on Unroot, the rebellion against MISA... And stops.

No.

"We all have our role to play," Dire whispers to herself. "And SOMEONE must be the devil."

Her fist clenches, and she banishes the keyboard with the flick of her other hand.

Much as she would like to join in, she serves the memory of one of her most favorite foes now best with silence.

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea
Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
Dr. Shea smiles, "Because I told him not to that's why. Or rather I told him I'm in no immediate danger, which you have repeatedly assured me is the case. Also I don't know exactly where I am, so I couldn't tell him either. So it will take time for him to track me down."

She points at Dire, "And he'll see Dr. Dire. We've had good dealings with her before. He won't want to damage that relationship unless he has to. That's also why he'll probably pay the cash you want doctor. Your request is reasonable enough."

Then she waves her hand at herself. "Plus of course there is me. He can't risk hurting any one until he's gotten a positive lock on which one of us here is me. And he'll want to make sure that I'm safe from all of you as well."

"Don't get me wrong I'm not that important to him. But I am the only scientist he knows and trusts to research what he wants. So he'll try and save me if he can."

"And on top of all of that there is the fact that you brought this on yourselves. Mr. Witters may well have asked you for help locating where I was, but I doubt he would have asked you to get me out yourselves. That is something he would have reserved for himself. By taking that step, and doing it without him here you've placed yourself in this position where neither of us can wholly trust the other's intentions."

She appears to think for a few moments. "In fact now I'm sure he didn't ask you for help. If he had then even if I sent him a message asking him to come in fighting he would have known I didn't have all the pertinent facts since he had already allied with you precisely to find me, and he would have simply come straight here with the expectation that everything was proceeding smoothly. Since you obviously expect that fighting may occur that means you know that Mr. Witters has no reason to think of you as allies."

"So why did you take it on yourselves to get me out without contacting Mr. Witters first. If you know why someone would kidnap me then you obviously know I would be in no immediate danger even if the intent was to control the Shaper. I wouldn't be much use as a hostage if I was dead or seriously injured. And only someone really stupid wouldn't realize that I would have ways of getting a message to Mr. Witters about any mistreatment."

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Event [PM]

"'Non-authorized traffic?'" the driver asks, beginning to look annoyed. "What the hell is that supposed to--"

"What's the hold up?" A man with neat dark hair and a tie visible at his neck sticks his head out of the back of the truck, into the cab.

"Roadblock, sir," said the driver, instantly respectful. "They're giving us directions to a different route."

"Really?" The suit looked around at the tense soldiers barring the way. He sighs. "So we could have gone through Greendale after all and it would have ended up taking just as long? Goddammit. Now everything's going to be late." He pulls out a mobile phone. "One moment, gentlemen."

His voice drifts out of the back of the truck, snatches of conversation reaching the officer. "Coban? Grey....blocked the...not a problem, but...well, I don't see that that's our problem, sir, it's they who owe us money, I think we can afford to...just go and do the Greendale drop-off first and then...start the shell game? Well, if you've got KK on the line, then that's not...no, Customs didn't bother checking inside the...well, no, I can't do that without revealing a bit too much, which I thought was the whole point of the, you know, the thing...word does tend to get around...correct me if I'm wrong sir, but didn't they...the Brotherhood, you know, EVRAZ...well, yes, technically that is an option, but I thought the extra was for...we do? Excellent. I'll make the offer. Yes, I'm sure he did. See you back at the office, sir."

Mr. Grey sticks his head back into the cab of the truck, pushing himself far forward so he can reach out the window. "If you could give us a clear path to Greendale, that would be excellent," he said. "If we can't go through Trent Town, we might as well take care of our business there on the way. Also, I understand your people have been gearing up for a rather large fight in the near future, so I've been instructed to give you a copy of our catalog and an offer on some excess stock we have at the moment. We have, as I understand it, slightly-used assault arms and armor for [4 Followers] that we would be willing to sell for [4 Cash], and similarly used high-grade small arms and armor for [6 Followers] that we would absolutely be willing to sell for another [4 Cash]. And then, of course, there's the Tomorrow's War line--rather expensive, but certainly better than that Brotherhood trash I understand you've been buying. You would see some examples of those particular products being used by my security team if you were to open the backs of these trucks." He smiles, taking the sting out of the implied threat, and leans across the driver to reach the window. "Here's the catalog, and my card. Give me a call if you feel you need some extra firepower. I understand a couple of our supply trucks are already set to mysteriously vanish in the outer city, so delivery wouldn't be a problem." He pauses. "Are we good now?"


Kamakura-kai [M]

Indeed, you have heard correctly. They seemed displeased when they heard Mr. Grey was en route to Fort Kronus. We're trying to get directions to Greendale from them now, and also trying to sell them on some of our equipment. I think the situation is handled, but if you could look over whatever route they give us and tell us if it's covered in landmines or something that would be excellent.

Also, I have confirmation now that we received the R-Kit intact. Thank you once again for the delivery.


Indonesia/Australian Warlords [M]

Dear sir or madam,

Due to increased activity by the Japanese army, equipped with the latest designs from Toshiko Industries, many reigns have been cut short of late. Many of your friends (and, let us be honest, enemies) have been destroyed, and absorbed into the growing Empire of Japan. Against a force so large and so well equipped you cannot hope to stand for long. This is not meant as an insult to your military capabilities, but rather as a simple statement of an unfortunate fact.

Fortunately, you have options available to you. You will find attached to this message a copy of the LCAI proprietary catalog, for your perusal. I am sure you will find something of interest within its pages.

Regards,

Michael DuLac
LCAI International

**ATTACHMENT: LCAI PROPRIETARY**

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
Kamakura-Kai HQ [PM]

Dire nods. "REASONABLE DEALINGS ARE THE HALLMARK OF CIVILIZED BEINGS. OH, PASS ALONG HARDAKKER AND DELTA'S REGARDS TO HIM, BY THE WAY. THEY WISH HIM WELL."

"YOU ARE A BIT MORE IMPORTANT TO HIM THAN YOU MAY THINK. MISTER WITTERS WAS NOT LOOKING FORWARD TO SPENDING MONTHS TRAINING A REPLACEMENT."

"FROM THIS POINT ON... PARTICULARLY IF THE SYNDICATE IS INVOLVED, YOU MAY HAVE TO CHANGE YOUR WORLD VIEW A BIT. UNTIL MATTERS CALM DOWN, AS UNFLATTERING AS THE TERM MAY BE, YOU MAY WISH TO CONSIDER YOURSELF MISTER WITTERS' SIDEKICK. ALL MANNER OF UNSAVORY INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANIZATIONS WILL ATTEMPT TO KIDNAP YOU, AND USE YOU AS LEVERAGE AGAINST MISTER WITTERS. YOU MAY WISH TO DEVISE A MEANS SO THAT HE CAN TRACK YOU, LOCATE YOU IN THE FUTURE..."

"BUT DIRE DIGRESSES. AS TO YOUR QUESTIONS, THEY ARE BEST ANSWERED BY MISTER KAMAKURA..." Dire offers a respectful nod, and steps back.

[Orbiter]

To Legion of Dire[M]

Greetings Doctor Dire

I apologize but it seems i wont be able to come for that medical project in the end, it looks like i started a chain of events with the posting of a certain poem.............if you have seen it what are your thoughts about it?
And if i may say so, why do think this chain of events started?

Looks like the universe conspiring to me :smallwink: that and everyone was holding back for quite some time......the air seemed to be so....stale and charged with emotions yet there was no wind till now to move them(ops i seem to be rambling, sorry).

I apologize for wasting your time Madam, see you perhaps in person another time.

((Damnit i really dint expect this to happen XD i posted that poem for fun, but i jumped to the fray because why not? i have crazy vips and honing their talent is fun, also with some luck next turn i will be able to work with you way better)).

[ArcaneStomper]

Dr. Shea
Kamakura-Kai HQ [PM]
Dr. Shea turns to Dr. Dire and her face has lost any trace of a smile it may have once had and is unsettlingly cold. "Dr. Dire we all know the other reason I may have been taken. To get revenge on the Shaper by hurting me. In that case if they wanted to kill me they would have done so already. If they wanted to hurt me, then they could have tortured me to any number of different levels. If I was sufficiently intact when recovered Mr. Witters found me, then he would endeavor to get me treated. If not then Mr. Witters would crush my skull himself to end my suffering."

"Don't assume we have not thought of this. We discussed this thoroughly and it is in the contract between us. In the event that I become injured, brainwashed, or otherwise rendered incapable of sentient self directed action then Mr. Witters will kill me. Then he will ensure that my work is brought to another scientist and my research completed. Should the same thing happen to Mr. Witters, although that would be much more unlikely, then I would carry out a full autopsy and test to destruction of his body and use the data gathered to further the world's understanding of Powers. All of our assets will also be inherited by the survivor and if at all possible the organization responsible would be targeted and destroyed in retaliation no matter how many decades such revenge might take to set up."

"Understand this. Our association is one of pragmatism. Each of us is useful to the other. And each of us will endeavor to recover the other if something untoward occurs. As much as either of us can have a friend in this world we are each other's friend. But neither of us sane. We are both obsessed to the point of insanity with our goals, and quite likely would be deemed sociopaths by any mental institute. If one of us dies the other will not mourn deeply. They will be frustrated and will see to the retaliation, but we are both fundamentally incapable of the kind of relationship that would be implied by a side kick and mentor. Any organization that attempts to use our relation as they would a side kick of some hero would find themselves greatly disappointed."

Abruptly her face resumes its calm slightly cheerful demeanor and she is smiling again, "But of course I don't have to worry about that now do I. We're all marginally friendly associates. So Mr. Witters will come and join the negotiations and we'll all discuss things like reasonable adults."

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
Serpeiente Diabolic [M]

"IT IS WELL. DIRE'S SCHEDULE FILLED UP A BIT FASTER THIS MONTH THAN ANTICIPATED, WOULD HAVE HAD TO ASK YOU TO WAIT ANYWAY."

"AH, SO THIS LEGAL ESCAPADE IS A MEDICAL PROJECT? IT WOULD NOT HAPPEN TO BE ON THE SUBJECT OF DULLS, WOULD IT? THAT HAS MUCH BEEN ON PEOPLE'S MINDS OF LATE. NO JOKE INTENDED."

"YOUR POEM WAS SUBLIME. UNROOT WOULD HAVE LIKED TO HAVE SEEN IT. AH, THE BEST OF US GO OUT WITH GLORY, LEAVING ONLY THE SURVIVORS TO MOURN."

"MF. FORGIVE A VETERAN SUPERVILLAIN HER MUSINGS. DIRE IS IN A MAUDLIN MOOD TODAY. SHALL HAVE TO GO WORK ON NEW GENERATION OF WARBOTS UNTIL IT PASSES."

"BY ALL MEANS, YOU HAVE TAPPED A VEIN OF THE ZEITGEIST. FOLLOW THIS AS FAR AS YOU CAN, SEE WHERE IT GOES. PERHAPS SOME ACTUAL BENEFICIAL CHANGE MAY COME OF IT. AND IF ENDS UP BEING CHANGE THAT WORKS AGAINST DIRE, NO MATTER. DIRE HAS ADAPTED AND OVERCOME MANY TIMES BEFORE, BECOMING STRONGER FOR IT, AND STRENGTHENING HER FOES AS WELL. THE PROCESS IS BENEFICIAL."


Legion of Dire
Kamakura-Kai HQ [PM]

Dire takes the change in Doctor Shea's disposition without surprise, merely nodding and letting the woman speak her piece.

"AH, GOOD. YOU HAVE THOUGHT OF IT. SO FEW DO, THEN ARE SURPRISED WHEN THEIR DEPENDENTS END UP BEING MUTILATED, MURDERED, OR OTHERWISE "FRIDGED." POINTS FOR INCLUDING A RETALIATION CLAUSE. THAT IS ONLY COMMON SENSE, AND IN ITS OWN WAY, INCREASES YOUR CHANCES OF SURVIVAL. AT LEAST AGAINST YOUR INTELLIGENT FOES."

"SINCE MISTER KAMAKURA-KAI IS BUSY AT THE MINUTE, DIRE SHALL ANSWER PART OF THE QUESTION... MISTER WITTERS WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE RESCUE BEFOREHAND SOLELY DUE TO SECURITY CONCERNS. IF YOUR CAPTORS WERE INDEED THE SYNDICATE, THEN THAT FACTION IS KNOWN TO HAVE SUPERIOR RESOURCES WHEN IT COMES TO MESH HACKING. IF THE GOVERNMENT, THEN THEY HAVE THEIR OWN SURVEILLANCE MEASURES."

"PUT BLUNTLY, WE COULD NOT TAKE THE RISK THAT MISTER WITTERS' MESH MAIL HAD BEEN HACKED. IT WOULD HAVE ESCALATED SECURITY, POSSIBLY INTERFERED WITH THE EXTRACTION, OR ADDED COMPLICATIONS. GEARS AND GRIT, DIRE HALF EXPECTED YOU TO COME THROUGH WITH AN EXPLOSIVE COLLAR AROUND YOUR NECK."

She holds out a gauntlet. The fingers split into a bonsai-tree-like structure of countless tiny tools, then reform. "PREPARED FOR THAT."

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic[M]

To The Legion of Dire

Interesting that you say that our bio shaper has been wanting to examine a dulls victim to locate what is going wrong with them(it fits her power finding what is wrong and altering it), but the Caretakers took one of her friends and it never happened and it may never happen now even if they are gone....the stuff learned about them got us spooked we might lose a friend again and well you know how it goes.

And yes pretty close i was thinking for a machine that could examine fast someone and provide information on their condition and perhaps first aid. As for the dulls i lack data on it but i have one idea on a cure if you ask me, i just lack a lab to make it real or see if its possible so for now i wont try it.

Thanks i almost regret now lately that i stopped writing poems.


I always thought about it Doctor Dire since i was little you.......relish to have a proper challenge and challenger to rise above them proving you are the top dog, almost like my friend only...well in bigger and different scale (and she is a snake).
My friend is more physical she will get wounded by a bullet to the gut only to rise up to spit on the attackers face with a laugh before taking a chunk out of them(savage but the concept of relishing and rising to the challenge remains). So yeah minus her madness er savage way of fighting, i don't think most powers, heroes and villains(not to mention rogues) are that different.

I suppose its a form of continued evolution when we seemed to have stopped evolving one way we started evolving in another way.

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Mr Caretaker [PM]
"I look forward to the completion of this... favour. But while I have you, I do believe there is something else I must bring up, if this partnership is to... pan out."

"Namely, the US Army. If Andraste is taken out of the picture, my wounded pride will be assauged, and I will be able to rectify the situation with the Lightbringers. This will also open opportunity to renew your operations in Cape City. Not to mention protect that lab Andraste spoke of."

"No chance of that if the US march through, destroying all in their path. Not to mention I prefer my current position upon the mortal coil. "

"If Cradle could put resources towards the defence of the Outer City, it would be to a mutual benefit."

To Chains Militia
It is my understanding that you will be engaging the US Army shortly. As a man with a vested interest in seeing that the City remains free of foreign influences, and as a strategist of some small note, I would offer my services.

Sadly, a wound prevents me from taking the battlefield myself, but I would happy to consult on your plan.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Chains Militia

"GOING TO FIGHT THE MILITARY? MY MY... THIS IS DIRE'S FIFTH FAVORITE THING TO DO ON A WEDNESDAY. PITY THE DEVASTATORS ARE IN THE SHOP THIS MONTH... STILL..."

"INTERESTED IN HIRING A TECHNICAL CONSULTANT WHO CAN SUPPLY HER OWN SUIT OF POWER ARMOR?"

"ALSO, THIS CONSULTANT JUST HAPPENS TO HAVE SPENT THE LAST WEEK AND A HALF PORING OVER THE INNER WORKINGS AND INS AND OUTS OF AN ARMY ISSUE FORCE FIELD GENERATOR MEANT TO WARD OFF AIRSTRIKES AND ARTILLERY. JUST FYI."

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

Dire, Splicer, Masquerade [PM]
"Before we turn to the matter of the Walls, however, the issue of the US Invasion looms larger. If they succeed, we will be forced to flee the Walls, most likely. As such, our actions are contingent on their failure."

"It would therefore be advisable to do what we can to ensure that failure occurs."

[Eldan]

Splicer to the Chains Militia [M]

"I heard that you might soon have problems with the army. I am currently in the position of a large quantity of fertilizer that could easily be converted into explosives. I see pushing back those fascist invaders as a noble cause, so I'll make you a good offer, if you are interested in buying any.

I'll also be developing some useful new insect swarms to interrupt logistics. Those I'll release for free.

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]

"AGREED. HOWEVER, IT WILL BE BLOODY, AND DIRE'S PERSONAL FORCES SHALL BE OF LITTLE USE."

"INSTEAD, DIRE SHALL OFFER TO AID CHAINS AS A TECHNICAL CONSULTANT. DIRE DID JUST SPEND A WEEK AND CHANGE WORKING WITH A US ARMY FORCE FIELD GENERATOR, AFTER ALL..."


Serpiente Diabolic [M]

"THERE IS A VISCERAL JOY TO A GOOD FIGHT. HOWEVER, EVERY FIGHT IS ONLY A MEANS TO A GOAL. DIRE, YOU SEE, HAS LITTLE TO PROVE. DIRE'S VICTORY IS INEVITABLE. AND ANY WHO THINK DIRE WEAK ARE DEFINITELY DELUSIONAL."

"THAT SAID, IT MUST BE A GOOD FIGHT. BULLIES TARGET THOSE WEAKER THAN THEY. THE BRAVE DO NOT SHIRK WHEN UP AGAINST THOSE OF EQUAL OR GREATER STRENGTH. BUT THEY MUST FIGHT INTELLIGENTLY TO PREVAIL."

"POWERS CHANGED THE WORLD, AND THE WORLD MUST CHANGE WITH IT. THE MORE OUR SPECIES HESITATES AND CLINGS TO OUTMODED IDEAS THAT HOLD US BACK, THE MORE DAMAGE IS DONE TO THE NEW AGE THAT IS BEING CONCIEVED AROUND US ALL. IT IS DIRE'S TASK TO FORCE CHANGE, OR ELSE THERE MAY NOT BE MUCH OF A WORLD BY THE TIME WE ARE DONE."

[UntrainedMonkey]

Hugh Donovan

To Maestro
So far it's got it's uses. Figured out how to get out o' Admin Site C with it. Then I stopped that ****ing poison that the heroes used on me. Anyway, that's what I got to offer right now.

[Imperial Psycho]

Maestro

To Hugh Donovan
"Fair enough. I'll be in touch. Let me know what you manifest next."

[Cognimancer]

Masquerade

Maestro, Dire, Splicer [PM]
"I concur. Not to make light of the Walls situation, but it seems a much greater threat is approaching. Unfortunately, my men aren't terribly useful as frontline combatants, and I had not made arrangements to use them as such. I can, however, contribute in other ways, if the Walls situation is being put on hold. There is always a tactical value for misdirection."

[Lost Demiurge]

Doctor Dire
Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]

"PROBABLY THE BEST THING TO DO, CLOAK, IS TO OFFER YOUR GROUP'S SERVICES TO THE CHAINS MILITIA. FOR PAY, OF COURSE. THEY SEEM TO BE THE ONES RUNNING THIS SHOW... AND THEY KNOW BEST WHERE TO USE SKILLED STEALTH ASSETS AND INFILTRATORS."

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

Kamakura-kai HQ [PM]
Momentarily distracted by an underling who had come to update him on the progress of the activity currently being carried out in the HQ even as the representatives gathered at the table were speaking, the Oyabun finally turned his attention back to Dr Shea, still staring sternly. However, he did nod.

"Dire-sensei has got the main gist of it, yes. However Dr Shea, astute though your observation regarding this incident was, you did overlook one thing; whether by accident or design, I know not. You mention that Mr Witters was more than capable of coming to get you personally, were we simply to inform him of where you were."

"What if you were never the one that your captors wanted? Have you ever considered that? What if you were just...bait?"

The Oyabun posed the question, looking as grim as ever. However, something must have changed, for the heavy atmosphere of moments earlier had dissipated, and the mobsters went about their work like nothing had happened.

To LCAI
Ah. I bet they would have been, yes; they are preparing to meet the US military in battle, after all. It was a foregone conclusion that they would not have allowed any shipment that had the possibility of benefiting Fort Kronus, especially not from your fine company.

I will see what I can do about the route they give you, but I am uncertain as to how much assistance I would be in the matter. More pertinently, I do have a certain amount of claim on the ears of the Chains, and if you'd like, I can put a quiet word in with them to certain effect, depending on what you need.

I am glad to hear our delivery to yourself have proceeded unimpeded. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Kamakura

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Kamakura-kai
Just a warning; the Killerz may not be destroyed this month... I am going to see what I can do, but tensions here in the Outer City between Chains and the Army prevent my entire force from deploying against them.

With that said, it still might get done. These people are numerous, but my people are trained soldiers and have the edge. I obviously don't expect payment until Shanty Towns West and East are occupied.

[Damn lucky my recruitment almost tripled my available force. Otherwise....]

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Legion of Steel [M]
I see. I presume you have forces committed to the impending war between the US military and the Chains? Given your status, the contract you took was probably from the Chains against their opponents?

In that case, I would like to make a proposal; I am perfectly fine with postponing the job to the next [Turn], for I do have a vested interest in sabotaging the US military. I believe this will help you as well, for that way you may concentrate your forces for the necessities this [Turn], and do likewise for our job the next [Turn].

Kamakura

[oblivion6]

Legion of Steel-Kamakua-kai
Chains Militia has indeed offered me a sizable sum of Cash as well as a cache of high-tech weaponry to oppose the Goverment advance. Under normal circumstances I wouldn't even dare take such a contract, but they gave me 45 very good reasons as to why I should.

That would be most excellent. I thank you for your understanding and I am sorry it has to be this way, but this is likely to be the toughest battle we have faced thus far and I can't afford to give up such a lucrative contract. I trust it won't change your opinion of us at all? I would hate to lose a valued ally over something so trivial.

If luck is with us, Killerz shall be eliminated next month and your terriotry secured.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Legion of Steel
Oh, nonsense. Why would I lower my opinion of your vaunted forces over a proposal that was made by myself? This incursion of the US military affects us all, and I certainly have no interest in seeing your attention divided, when you could put your full focus into something that also has a benefit to myself, albeit indirectly. Have no fear in that regard, my friend.

Consider my approval the 46th good reason why you should concentrate on fulfilling the contract from the Chains, to the best of your ability. We will reconvene the matter of the Killarz on the following [Turn], should all go well this [Turn].

Kamakura

[Murska]

Unit Blue - Warehouse 13 [M]

I'll ask around for what people would be willing to offer for Powers: People 2 Database.

[Ascaloth]

Kamakura-kai

To Street Legal [M]
I apologise for the delay in my response. I have had so much to deal with recently.

Unfortunately, my friend, recent circumstances have indicated that I may not have a need for the service I had earlier put an option on this [Mid-Turn], after all. I am sorry for wasting your time.

However, I may still need to call upon that same service at some point in the near future, depending on future developments. I will make sure to inform you in advance, when I would like to take out that option again.

Kamakura

Thelonius [GM]
What do I need to spend for the following to happen in Mid-Turn;


Deploy 'going to the mattresses' protocol; quick evacuation of HQ, taking or destroying anything that might implicate Kamakura-kai presence, and shifting everything into the other boltholes around the Night District.

And what effects would it have on me?

[Zemalac]

LCAI

Kamakura-kai [M]

The really irritating thing is that we aren't even shipping anything for the Army in this particular convoy. We have some minor, off-the-record equipment for another client, and Mr. Grey needs to speak with the General, hopefully about arranging some sort of a bonus due to his side of our contract being the cause of the interminable delays we've had recently. At this rate the Army isn't going to be equipped with LCAI gear by the time whatever battle the Chains are anticipating happens anyway.

[Murska]

The Meeting of Minds - Radical and Banks [PM]

A man with gravitas, Banks takes the appropriate pause before replying.
''I was the right man in the right time. I've read a little about your exploits, though all of course through the prism of public media.''

Well, nothing for it but to bull through. This sort of thing is what he was made for.
"There are several things that I would like to discuss with you, but I've found that I tend to simply make a fool of myself when I don't know enough. So, if you don't mind, I would like to have you ask me anything you might want to know, and perhaps answer some of my own questions. For starters, you say you've read a little of us - what is your impression?"

''Well, you are group of skill and luck. The sort of luck that is made. Skilled diplomats and PR men. You get results. You seem rather attached to creating a community in Junks."

Radical smiles at this despite himself. "Well, it must seem very small to you, but I'm quite proud of what we have managed with what we have. But we are mainly just channelling the wishes of the many good people in Outer City whose modest wants and needs are just to improve their lot a little bit.

As for Edgetown... well, to be honest, we would probably be better off if we didn't spend so much time and effort there. But if we didn't, we wouldn't be who we are. I feel responsible for those people. We toppled the Red Riders, but if we'd just left and abandoned the people again, just like the State and Cape City both have, they would simply fall back into despair. A cruel thing to do, after letting them glimpse light."

Banks is not taken aback by this little prod. Of course, it isn't as though it was his fault, him not having been active since the times of the Architect. But he is also a consummate politician and negotiator.
''I can see your reasoning. And not long after Red Riders were gone, Syndicate showed up.''

A short pause, to gauge each other.
''A lot of people are attracted to the Outer City and not all of them have the good of people in mind. The current state of things is deplorable. It is heartening to see people make a stand, though sad at the same time at how few of them do.''

"I feel that all many people need is a spark. They've been left alone, abandoned by those they should've been able to trust in, for years and years. They've grown bitter and cynical - they don't believe they can make a difference, or they're too busy trying to live to take an interest. I believe that, deep down, most people are good, if flawed, people."

''The trick in my experience was always having the right people lead the charge. And give everybody a chance to shine in their own way.''

"One of the reasons I'm here, really. You are most certainly a leader, yourself."

''I admit that was the part I've played in out power trio. Alchemist is not a people's person and Architect has all that science to do. So I did what I could do best.''

"And in my opinion, we in Cape City need someone like you to lead, right now. While I do not presume to know, I believe your views would coincide with ours in regards to the things going on right now."

"The Unionists, heavily supported by the US Government, are pushing pretty heavily for Cape City to lose its autonomy. With words, and with guns, and I fear that possibly also with daggers."

''I am working on preserving said autonomy. But it takes time to marshal political resources and support. My opponents had more time to prepare. I expect with a succesful show that Outer City can be reformed without military intervention I could gather enough support - your actions in Junks and my initiative to rebuild Outer City Docks. However, if by that time US Military takes control over Outer City, it will be very hard to dislodge them. Much depends on Chains ability to defend Trent Town. I haven't explored those contacts, but I believe they are trying to become something like Cape City's private army. Which would be a very complicated move politically.''

"And this is something we can cooperate on. I'm on the ground, so to speak, in Outer City. I know much about what's going on in the small scale."

''You believe you can delay US Army from taking Trent Town, Greendale and Abbatoir this month?''

"I can try. I can't give any guarantees. We aren't going to /fight/ them - and much of what I do will concentrate on keeping the civilians safe. But we can work together on some things."

''Of course. I wouldn't ask something like that. Civilian safety is a priority, though I hope both Military and Chains will try to limit collateral damage, both for humane reasons and to avoid media scandal."

"I don't know about 'real' politics, but I've been in many negotiations and such. And the tendency is that one side profiles itself as the opposite of another... I'm referring to the anti-Power stance the Unionists have."

''They are indeed in favor of P-Reg. But it's a stance that have been getting popular after recent events.''

"Both sides of the Powers argument have merits. But the problem is that when it's taken up as a crusade like this, there's not enough moderation."

''Yes...''

"I have some materials from the Empowered community. And there's the Hadron's fight against Prophet, and other similar things recently. Maybe even the Harvesters battle. I would like for people to see that Powers, like anyone, can be good or evil, and are usually both."
Banks might see, with his experience, that Radical has a personal issue behind this.

At mention of Captain Hadron a shadow passes over the face of Banks.
"Yes, people should know that. I agree.''

"The current Mayor... I get the feeling she's on the side of the Unionists?"

Banks considers it. ''There are some things, but nothing concrete... Why do you think that?''

"When you don't know what's behind things, look at what's going on. She has to see the situation, right? There has been /no/ reaction from Cape City, official or even semi-official."
A breath.

"And the Government has to have discussed this beforehand with the Mayor's Office. There's no way they'd risk the attack otherwise."

Banks walks to the window looking in the direction of the Core.
''One could have assumed that she may be simply a poor leader or avoiding action to not offend others... Yet I think she is skilled enough politican. If one thinks about it, then her lack of action certainly implies something sinister. If Mayor's Office is indeed in the government's pocket... I think I can find out the truth and act on it... The question of course if I'll manage it in time."

"Mm... but there are other problems than political ones. I've been fighting the Brotherhood, the Syndicate and the Cradle, all in Outer City, all in the recent months."

''There is a lot of crime in the Outer City. And that is the reason why military have a reason to interfere. My plans for the Docks should improve situation there and as I understand you have done much to clean up the Junks. I admit there might be merit in dealing with Chains, to keep order. Greendale, Abbatoir, and Walls remain as major sources of trouble. Perhaps you have some ideas with you insider perspective?''

"Well, it is really the gist of the matter right here. Why do these criminal groups move into Outer City? Simply because Outer City is weak, and cannot protect itself. Similarly, the Army is making that move. The only way for Cape City to remain as it is... you need to acknowledge Outer City and take it under your protection, instead of ignoring it and staying silent about the elephant in the room. We can clean up any number of problems, but if there's no lasting solution, like what I'm trying to do small-scale in the Junks - it won't help."

''Well, part of the problem would be solved with reconstruction, but it's true. Only part. Some law enforcement is needed. The heroes can be one - I heard Wardens helped against Harvesters and Lightbringers fought against Caretakers. As I said Chains are interested in becoming our private military. And then there are autonomists willing to serve in city militia.''

"Practical solutions like that will arise, yes. The conceptual problem is that the residents of Cape City do not think about Outer City, or if they do, do not view it as a part of Cape City. But without Cape City, there would be no Outer City.

Primarily, Outer City needs some sort of a government, democratic authority that would allow it to gain a sense of unity and purpose in itself. The people need a sense that they can change things for the better themselves, instead of forever relying on outside aid and the strength of their own fists to secure it."

''Ah. I admit I haven't thought about it in this terms. You may have something there. I can't say I fully trust democratic institutions, but in this case they might be right for the job. The Outer City is located on Cape City soil, so it would fall under our authority to recognize legitimacy of such government. If I am in office, I will certainly do so.''

Another pause, as a thought crosses both their minds.
''There is of course the issue of how fair the elections would be - the local factions may have considerable influence on their voter's preferences. I'd rather not see somebody like Maestro elected. It would undermine the legitimacy of the whole idea.''

"True. We will need to determine some sort of a fair method. But the idea is that the people living in Outer City would, for once, have a channel to affect their lives. /That/ is the catalyst for real change."

''Well, I agree that this idea is good. As long as we can pull off execution.''

"But that is a matter for longer thought and a discussion after the current crisis is resolved... back into which, that is one thing we need to discuss the practicals of. Have you a channel to negotiate with Chains?"

''I will do so. I wish to meet them personally, see what sort of people their leaders are... But I am concerned if they prove to be the wrong sort and somebody finds out, it can be used as political ammunition. My main priority right now is making certain Mayor is working in the best interests of Cape City. And if not arranging for early elections.''

"I need the Chains and the Army to both hear, directly from Cape City over as official a channel as can be made, that any harm done to civilians will not be tolerated."

Radical glances at the bodyguard robot.
"Perhaps the Cogworks have some flying cameras they can arrange to be around, just to make sure. And we can make some areas, like Sleepy Pines, into neutral zones - it looks like a reasonable and impartial request, but loss of frontage always favours the defender."

''Of course. I don't expect they will though. Apart from the fact that neither are as far a I can tell, bloody psychopaths, it'll be poltiically unwise move. And this war will be decided by politics."
''I'll see about getting camera drones in place, though I expect both sides will implement anti-Mesh countermeasures.''

"Well, if the cameras aren't shot down the video they've stored can be retrieved afterwards."
"But for one, the more we can restrict things the more time an attack will take. And equally important is for both sides to see that Cape City has its eye on them. That it isn't just a passive bystander. It sends a message."

''We have been inactive for a long time... Maybe due to outside influences, maybe due to flaws in design of the city's political system. But no more.''

"For me, information is the greatest and only asset. I wonder if you could transfer to us basic data on Cape City itself and the politics therein - it is easy to misstep when you don't know what you're headed into."

"Well, as of politics, you seem to have a better idea of things then I do. I have been away from things for a lot of time. Architect was still in charge, when my accident happened.
As for Cape City... Perhaps I can tell a few things relevant to the current situation."

"Thank you." Radical nods. "Things will work out, I hope. And afterwards, perhaps we can discuss the future in more detail. You certainly have vision."

''And so do you. Architect always tried to assemble visionaries around himself, trying to create a new world. A few years earlier, and maybe you'd have been on his team. Well, let's see how things work out.''

And so the meat of the conversation was over. Neither of the men present spent more than the bare minimum for the polite platitudes - they were both busy and could understand each other, to some degree. Some minutes later, Radical was leaving the Towers and heading back out of the splendour and shine of Cape City, into his home in the wastes surrounding it.

A man with a mission.

[Thelonius]

Kamakuri-Kai

Internal [PM]

The moving & evidence destroying will cost you 1 Action.


Legion of Dire

Night Crews [M]

Hah. Doctor, true, that’s who we are. Then it’s a deal then. I must ask though - this hiding, is that who you really are? Shouldn’t other people tremble before Dire?


Chains [M]

‘’I hope it won’t be taken as an insult, but we have our own experts and as such your assistance won’t be required.’’


Masquerade

Junk Mage [PM]

The area around the Junk Tower appears unremarkable at first. Yet there is some odd feeling, of something being just out of the corner of the eye. Turn around fast enough and maybe you can catch a glimpse of it.

Then the emissary’s step brings him into a lush meadow with a clear stream flowing through it and silver fishes almost jumping out of the water, as they flow. In the distance... The landscape is the same, Junks. Scrap, sickly vegetations and a tower made of Junk. Yet the fresh smell of flowers and grass lingers. Another step and the world shifts again to the glade in the forest and a red wooden bridge over the stream with carvings of animals. The Tower in the distance is no longer made of junk, but of white stone and it stands much taller and wider. Another step and it’s the pile of junk again. The world shifts with every new step, but the closer emissaries come to the Junk Tower, the longer that other place - a fertile, rich and beautiful land stays. The periods of Junks grow few and pass almost instantly. Illusion? Teleportation? Dreaming? Magic?

At the base of the tower the emissaries are greeted. From the balcony above the gates a young, attractive woman wearing robes with sigils and symbols sewn into it, calls out to them. Odd, since Junk Mage is supposed to be a man. ''Who are you, travelers?''


Unity

Adrian Banks [PM]

This is a controversial issue. The purists would call it changes to Architect’s Plan, but I recognize the need to adapt to the situation and avoid dogmatism. I believe, if Outer City is transformed into a functional place rather than it’s current state of chaos and crime, then there will be a place for the First District as a place of dialog between Outer and Cape Cities. And it’s true that with influx of immigrants Cape City may be approaching its limits.


Legion of Steel

Internal [PM]

Mid-Turn trouble.

I don’t think I got your PM.

Generator is pretty much defensive set-up, to protect your positions. It’s difficult to move, hence 1 action cost. Maybe you can ask Dire to try and make it more mobile :)

Mave: ‘’I think it’s good enough. I’ll be trying to hit their supply routes and get some loot, so we can earn even more.’’

(got stuff in Lockwood-Coban part)


Street Legal

Chains Militia [M]

We may be interested in a job for you.


Unit Blue

Warehouse [M]

It appears they have a lot of information on Powers, but there are a few things you may be able to trade.


Sensei [M]

‘’There are some in the ranks of MISA that wish for corruption to be purged. I’ll try to gain their cooperation.


Lightbringers [PM]

Prism smiles weakly. ‘’We did that. Serpentine Diabolic came to us and asked for help, because one of their members was kidnapped. And well... We long knew of Caretakers, but I guess we needed a little nudge. We got help from Andraste... Hell, we would be dead if it weren’t for her. She’s brutal. Not certain I like the idea of growing like her, if that’s what it takes to win. Caretakers were sending their men. They’ve got these chameleon suits, make them practically invisible. That and excellent information. They aren’t that good at direct confrontations, but they always know how to hit you in the right time and in the weakest place. We were mostly a distraction really, shining light into their eyes, while Andraste was tracking them down to their base. We got hands on files of how they ship them. Apparently a lot never leave the place. So they are held somewhere either in Outer City or in Cape City. Got also a mention of ‘’Competitor’’. Andraste probably knows more, but we didn’t have much opportunity to talk things out. Not certain if she would tell us full truth. Really paranoid.’’


Menor Compadres [PM]

‘’I think Chains will try to keep the fight to Junks. Trent Town is their golden goose. Granted, if US Military has superior weapons, maybe they will do it in Trent Town, since military won’t be able to unleash their full firepower there.’’

‘’We’ll talk to Promethean guys then. And we’ll work with you. It’s true, Syndicate can use this this opportunity to sneak in, set up some secret lab. Hopefully we won’t be caught in crossfire.’’


Blaze [M]

‘’Mmm... I was always curious, if the rumors that nazi scientists have fled to Syndicate were true. Well, that’s interesting enough for me to be in.’’


Inquirer (person) [M]

‘’I’m a simple man trying to get by in this crazy city of ours. Just like to have all my facts straight, seen how the media is not providing.’’


Fort Kronus [PM]

‘’Menor Compadres haven’t done much bad things. And I can see how what they did was justifiable. It’s the trend that I am concerned about.’’ General’s tone softens. ‘’I have information they are affiliated with Anarchs - terrorists, who fight and kill for their vision of anarchy. They did so recently, attacking Fort Kronus. You can start with best intentions and then slide down the slope into radicalism. You can’t always be where you are needed, can’t always do the right thing over the practical one. We are here now, and opposing us now, when we are doing good, would be a mistake. I heard you fought the Harvesters. Wasn’t my idea to try take full credit for that... But we are going to deal with criminals and monsters - Harvesters, Killarz, Brotherhood and Syndicate, deal with Walls rouge Powers. And we need help of the locals to do so. So what would it take to win Unit Blue’s trust?’’


Shaper

Internal [PM]

Arrange them according to your priorities. US Military cares about the timing of your sweeping the Harvesters though... They’d like to have it Mid-Turn.


Hugh Donovan

Pharmacist [PM]
[Shaper hears not]

‘’Against Cradle? No. I’ll pass. I’ve got enough people out for my blood, to add them to the list. If you are going after Cradle, then I’ll prefer our paths separate.’’


Serpentine Diabolic

Banks Industries [PM]

You are greeted by a middle-aged woman in a business suit. ‘’Madeline Vail’’ she introduces herself. ‘’So you wish to invest in the Docks reconstruction intiative?’’


Sensei [M]

‘’There are some in the ranks of MISA that wish for corruption to be purged. I’ll try to gain their cooperation.


Lockwood-Coban

Amazing Adventures of Lockwood-Coban Convoy [PM]

The officer shrugged. ''As you wish. It’s not hard to get there, just follow the street and then turn on Maple Avenue.'' They turned and started driving. ''You wish you stuck to the Trent Town'' he yelled after them. ''At least we’ve got roads here.''

Greendale

The convoy passed trucks full of soldiers driving north. The markings belonged to the Legion of Steel and it was unlikely that they’d prove hostile. There were many small camps or old cars on the road, which was in such poor condition, the trucks were forced to a crawl. The next convoy was of beaten up truks and people dressed in rags. They didn’t seem to have any weapons and their hobbling looked pitiful. The convoy passed them without incident. There were a few stragglers way behind and one of them started signaling vigorously. Stopping the convoy was both a security risk and threatened their schedule, so they were about to pass, but words of ''cash'' reached them.

''We are wholesalers.'' yelled the driver.
''I’ll buy wholesale. Explosives. [5] Cash worth of them. Drop them off in Walls, south of Colt street, just outside the Reapers territory.'' The voice of the man was raspy, as if he was struggling for breath.

They continued on their way. The driver in the lead car whispered ''Something felt wrong about the group. Like the driver in the truck that passed us. Something didn’t seem right about him. Like the look in his eyes... And that crowd.''

Junks

They left Greendale to skirt edges of the Junk Mage territory. One of the drivers claimed he saw a forest and a herd of unicorns. ''I nearly run down a freaking unicorn!'' He was switched by another driver. There were only a couple trees in sight, barely with any leafs on them and several feral cats, scampered into the junk. ''We ain’t in Cape City anymore'' muttered one man. ''****ing weird-town.'' replied another.

Soon they discovered two crates missing. The man in charge of presentation howled, quickly making alterations to the plan, that would cover for missing merchandise and promising hell for the security team, once they get back. ''Maybe they fell off the trucks'' ventured one guard. ''Maybe you'll shut the hell up.’’ cussed security officer. ''This will be coming out of our salaries till we die. Damn it.''


Legion of Steel/LCAI Convoy

They were stopped at the defensive line of Legion of Steel and Mave’s Toughs. Troops moving, equipment, dug in tanks and artillery. Many of the Legion of Steel’s troops had different uniforms, with insignia of the Legion only recently stitched on. New recruits seemed to outnumber veterans 3 to 1. There were war preparations in progress. The officer of the Mave’s Toughs looked like he was itching for his men to open fire, with many of Legion of Steel recruits ready to back him up, but Legion of Steel commander in place outranked him and thus it was his call.


Meeting [M/PM]

Mr. Norman: ‘’Can I meet to discuss purchase of your Tomorrow’s War line and discuss certain business issues.’’


Asian Warlords [M]

‘’A good offer. We also got an offer from Bortherhood... So why should we buy from you and not from them?’’


Maestro

Mr. Caretaker [PM]

''I doubt US Army shooting local hooligans will be a concern for our organization.''


Chains [M]

''We can use a good strategist. We’ll maintain a mesh link with you so you can try to work out what US Army is trying to do.''


Splicer

Chains [M]

‘’We’d be glad to cooperate with you, now and in the future.

[Orbiter]

Serpiente Diabolic

Banks Industries [PM]

Finias introduce himself back at her and offered a handshake before moving on "Indeed, and depending on the terms we agree, how much we are willing to invest shall be decided".


Sensei[M]

Very well you know how to reach us if they agree to anything.

[Lost Demiurge]

Legion of Dire
to Chains Militia [M]

"NO INSULT TAKEN, DIRE'S OFFER WAS ONLY MADE OUT OF, HEH, DUTY. HOPEFULLY THE BROTHERHOOD CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH ADEQUATE SUPPORT."

"YOU ARE CERTAIN THAT THERE IS NO ASSISTANCE THAT DIRE CAN PROVIDE YOU IN THIS MATTER, THEN?"



Legion of Dire
to Night Crews [M]

"HMMM? OH. YES, DIRE SEES HOW ONE COULD SEE A DISPARITY. BUT YOU ARE NOT SUPERVILLAINS, SO YOU LIKELY DO NOT SEE THE LAYERS AT WORK HERE."

"THERE ARE DIFFERENT KINDS OF FEAR, MOONSHADE. THERE IS THE FEAR ENGENDERED BY CONFRONTATION, THE FEAR ENGENDERED BY DREAD OF A GROWING STRING OF CONQUERED TERRITORIES ON THE MAP, AND THE FEAR OF IRON, RELENTLESS CERTAINTY THAT A LEGION OF UNSTOPPABLE ROBOTS ARE COMING TO GRIND YOU BENEATH THEIR ALLOYED HEELS. THESE ARE ALL EXAMPLES OF KNOWN FEARS. ONE CAN SEE THEM CLEARLY. ONE CAN TELL FROM WHENCE THEY COME. ONE CAN PREDICT THEM."

"THEN THERE ARE UNKNOWN FEARS. FEARS LIKE, WHERE IS THIS SUPERVILLAIN? WHAT IS SHE UP TO? WHAT KIND OF FORCES DOES SHE HAVE? WHEN WILL SHE STRIKE, AND WHERE? IN THEIR WAY, THESE FEARS ARE GREATER THAN THE KNOWN FEARS."

"BEFORE, DIRE WAS CONSTRAINED BY HAVING TERRITORY TO CONSTANTLY DEFEND. AND YOU KNOW HOW TROUBLESOME THE DOCKS HAVE BEEN, THESE LAST FEW MONTHS. FRANKLY, DIRE ALONE COULD NOT ACCOMPLISH THE TASK WHILE ENGENDERING ENOUGH FEAR TO MAKE GOOD PROGRESS. AND ASSISTANCE WAS ONLY BOUGHT WITH COSTLY, COSTLY FAVORS."

"ADD IN THE FACT THAT DIRE IS NOT PREPARED TO STAND AGAINST THE US ARMY AT THIS JUNCTURE, AND YOU SEE THE DILEMMA. ANOTHER VICTORY LIKE THAT WON AGAINST DUTY WOULD BANKRUPT DIRE."

"NO. NOW THE WORKSHOP GETS MOVED TO A PLACE WHERE IT IS REASONABLY SAFE FROM DISCOVERY, ENSURING UPGRADES AND FORCE CONSTRUCTION PROCEED UNABATED. NOW THE ARMY IS EVADED, AND ANY ENEMIES WHO WOULD STRIKE AT DIRE'S KNOWN POSITION WILL FIND THEIR FIST MEETING ONLY EMPTY AIR, THEIR EFFORT WASTED. NOW DIRE GETS TO STRIKE WHEN AND WHERE SHE PLEASES, PERHAPS EVEN TURNING A PROFIT ALONG THE WAY. BECAUSE UNSTOPPABLE ROBOT HORDES TAKE RESOURCES, AFTER ALL."

"YOU SEE, AT THE END OF THE DAY, DIRE IS MEGALOMANIACAL NOT DELUSIONAL. NOW IS THE TIME TO RUN SILENT, TO WORK ON ADVANCED WEAPONS AND THINGS LIKE PERSONAL FORCE FIELDS, AND PRODUCE ROBOTS FOR THE TIME WHEN THEY ARE NEEDED."

"THE ONLY FIGHTS THAT MATTER TO DIRE ARE THE ONES THAT FORWARD DIRE'S GOALS. AND AS YOU HAVE STATED THAT YOU ARE UNCONCERNED ABOUT THE ARMY, THE GOAL OF PRESERVING YOU AND YOUR PEOPLE WOULD NOT BE FURTHERED BY FIGHTING HERE AND NOW."


Legion of Dire
to Maestro, Masquerade, Splicer [PM]

"WELL, LOOKS LIKE CHAINS IS UNINTERESTED IN DIRE'S ASSISTANCE. MAKES SENSE, THEY PROBABLY HAVE BROTHERHOOD TECH EXPERTS ALONG ALREADY. BOUND TO BE SOME DISLIKE THERE."

"NOT TO MENTION THAT IF THEY WON WITH DIRE'S ASSISTANCE, THEY WOULD FACE NEGATIVE PRESS OVER IT. HEH."

"DID THEY BUY YOUR FERTILIZER, SPLICER? DO NOT FORGET TO TREAT IT, TURN IT INTO EXPLOSIVES. SHOULDN'T TAKE LONG, REALLY."

[Murska]

Unit Blue - Lightbringers [PM]

"Sounds like something I'm going to take a look at once it's possible. Congratulations on the success, at least - about time something was done. Cradle, Brotherhood, Syndicate. Outer City isn't such a nice place when you dig a bit down. Or at all, I suppose.

Well, to the heart of the matter - I would strongly ask of you to temporarily depart the Walls, come to our hospitality in Sleepy Pines or Edgetown for some weeks. I've heard disturbing rumours, and what with the coming war between the Chains and the Army, it's a good spot for any crooks to take action confident that they'll be lost in the static. And I've heard that most crooks in Outer City are concentrating near the Walls right now. No offense, but take it from someone of my reputation - sometimes it's best to take a step back, regroup and find out what's going on.

We'll have important things to do as well. It's one thing to remove bad guys and stop oppression, but you aren't really doing a whole lot of good before you're building and restoring things. I've worked out an agreement with Mr. Banks, and some others as well, to ensure that neither Chains nor the Army will end up doing anything against the civilians, and I need to enforce the neutrality of various civilian regions near the battles. And there's always construction work and taking care of refugees. Plus, Tune will be looking into the corruption in MISA and Syndicate's activities.

I figure, I've already invited the Menor Compadres to help - they're debating taking an offer to become a full-fledged Hero group - and the new movers like us and you should probably gather up and talk things over, work out how to cooperate and communicate, and so on. Right now, all of us need to take a rest and prepare, and stay out of the way of the big guns - together we would be both safer and more efficient, right?

What do you think?"

Unit Blue - Menor Compadres [M]

"I'm going to try inviting the Lightbringers to visit us for a while - a safety measure, there's a lot of stuff going on near the Walls, nasty rumours. And we need to all take this time to prepare and rest a bit, as you said, to avoid the crossfire.

The value of words and legitimacy, I had a discussion with Mr. Banks in Cape City, and we're going to be working together to ensure that neither the Army nor the Chains are going to be shooting at anything other than each other. Neutral zones for civilians to stay in safely, we'll make sure there's no trouble in Sleepy Pines or Edgetown for instance. And meanwhile we can discuss the future, draw up some plans maybe. Help the refugees settle, and so on."

Tune - Blaze [M]

"Glad to have you on-board. My friends are going to be keeping their heads down and doing low-key work to help the civilians while the war is on, but meanwhile us in the Clouds can keep at it.

Also, the thing about MISA? I was the one who leaked the data on the corruption. We could use that movement to breach some servers while they're vulnerable, looking at the obvious threat."

Unit Blue - Inquirer [M]

"Well, you do valuable work. And you seem like a good person. I will be doing my best to change this crazy City for the better, and hopefully you'll be around for the ride. By the way, I got Banks to spin those pro-Power materials into some news, if that helps.

Good luck."

Unit Blue - Fort Kronus [PM]

"Mm..." Ruby looks at the General for a moment.

"Up until now, it has always been easy to choose our side. On one hand, monsters and murderers, on the other, shades of gray. I can confirm your Anarchist intel in part - they helped us against Red Riders and the Syndicate, through the Menor Compadres. But while they might be a radical influence, I hope you would agree that we are a moderating one. We've recently reached an accord with the Menor Compadres over some things, including their methods. I would ask of you to give them a chance right now to make their choice. If they turn in the wrong direction, which I doubt myself having seen them and spoken with them, we will do what you say.

As for the main thing. I have no doubt in your intentions, and that what you do would, at least initially, be good for us. But, like us in the Junks, it's one thing to take out the bad guys, another entirely to stick around afterwards to rebuild and actually help the people. And you have to admit that your presence is also a heavily political move to support the Unionists in Cape City against the Autonomists. I have to say that by default the sympathies of many of us would lie somewhat on the side of the latter, there.

Still, I do not want to oppose you when you actually are doing the right thing, for whatever reasons it might be. Negative reinforcement, you know?"

She smiles just a little. "We are going to ensure that there's no fighting in neutral areas, in the midst of civilians - Sleepy Pines, Edgetown for our part, and others. No Chains nor military there. There will be cameras and people around, and if either side tries to pass off casualties of war...

We'll watch you. If you have questions about Outer City, I will either answer them truthfully or truthfully tell you that I cannot answer. You have earned that much. And if your actions match your words, we can help you more.

For in the end, politics and philosophies aside, what's really at stake are the many, many people whose lives are being affected. I can't take responsibility for your soldiers or Chains' troops or the many mercenaries bound to take sides. But I am going to be doing my utmost to take care of the innocents who do not deserve to be shot in the battles of others. Hopefully it will be enough."

[Eldan]

Splicer to the Chains

"I'll make you a good price, then. [5 cash] for [9 fertilizer] is dirt cheap, and I'll even turn it into explosive, for you. Because I do not want to see this city under military control."

Splicer to the Allies [PM]

"They have. I'm delivering it now."