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[fistandantilus4....]

Link to OOC Blood of the People

Is this right? Is this moral? Can we really be doing this? .... Do we have a choice? He paced the small confines of the room, trying to order his thoughts. It wouldn't make any difference of course. It hadn't with the others, and it wouldn't now. Somehow though, debating it made him feel less a monster.

It has to change. There's no doubt. Can't be weak now. Not when we're so close. Sacrifices must be made. It was our way then... we have no choice now.

It must be done.

He left the room, the door closing hard, as if it would add some sense of finality to his actions. Make him feel as if he was past the point of no return. They would pay. They would all pay. He only hoped it was worth the price in souls they had to pay. Worth his own soul.

Ancestors give me strength.

[fistandantilus4....]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 1300 - Seattle Metroples - Doss

Another slow morning, thanks the spirits. Or whomever. Working so many late nights, late mornings became part of the price easily enough. Nix busies him self about his doss, getting virtual files together. He'd finally managed to get the bootlegged file in Filtering from the Shiawase insider. Not that he exactly needed it just yet, he hadn't even learned cleansing yet. But a little extra knowledge never hurt.

He was pulled from his work by the ring on his comm. Scanning it quickly on the AR, he saw it was an unfamiliar, but local number. That usually meant one of two things: Work, or a persistant telemarketer.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 1300 - Seattle Metroples - Doss

Looking at the LTG Nix thinks, Time to do a little research and create a spell that only requires a telecom connection... instead of line of sight..

Knowing that won't be happening anytime soon, "Yea. Talk to me..."

[fistandantilus4....]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 1300 - Seattle Metroples - Doss

Nix, I presume? My name is Virginia. I have some business I would like to discuss with you and your associates for some out of town work. You come well recommended from Mr Richards. Can we meet some place local?

The voice is feminin, no picture, as the screen is blacked out. The tone is well practiced. Either a professional Johnson, or a fixer. Either way, this woman knows the business.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:00:30 - Seattle Metroplex - Doss

I could sure use the nuyen, its been a frelling slow past few months. And its out of town.. Travel expenses.. He absent mindedly rubs the ring on his left hand, And I need to get away from Tom for awhile.

He thinks another moment, Associates... I guess that means this won't be simple surveillance...

"Yes Virginia, there's a little pub on Market near 9th here in Tacoma. They've a few private rooms on the second floor. Local enough or did you mean local to you?" He knew of the pub, but wasn't a regular. He didn't like the idea of meeting someone from a blind call at some place he frequented. It would take him 15-20 minutes to get there, but that wasn't the problem. Getting the rest of the team together might be a problem. I hope she's making the calls instead of making me the messenger boy...."

[fistandantilus4....]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:01- Seattle Metroplex - Doss

Meet me there in three hours please. I'll arrange for a space, as well as food. Bring what people you want, I've heard you work with a competant team. The pay scale is in 5 figures, but it is very demanding work. If you and your team are up for it, I'll see you there.

The number disconnects.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:01:30- Seattle Metroplex - Doss

Nix thinks a moment about his team... How the frell is it that my team is three orks..? I still have yet to figure that one out... I can imagine the street talk... Goldy elf and the three orks... Master Blasters; Three parts ork, one part elf... They seem like a pretty stand up crew though the few runs we've made together... oh heck, I forgot about the new guy...

Nix starts to call them all up and has an epiphany of his own... I hope Caliph has his dang com on him today...

OOC: Nix is calling Caliph, Gunney & Ash.. All at the same time.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 13:01:30 - Snohomish - Parked in a campground

The throwaway commlink beeps from the dashboard of the van as a call comes in, but since it's from Nix it routes it directly to my brain. I sit for about 4 beeps and smirk - no sense in picking up too early...

"Oye vato, como se vas? Frank out of the hospital yet?" - the normal 'pretend-social' question that really means 'is this a business call?'

Not really expecting a discussion about the world, the flesh, and the devil today, so close the travel guide scrolling across my right eye and start trudging back to the van.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:01:45- Seattle Metroplex - Doss

The call routes through two double-blind proxies before connecting to Caliph. The encryption program validates a double paired-key encryption. That done, everything technically that can be done to protect the signal and the endpoints have been done. Now came the code talking, "Getting out in three hours, I thought we could meet and go together. How long till you could be at Rachel's?" The name reference was irrelevant, the current agreed to meeting spot was Katie's Diner on South 27th Street near the intersection of South J Street in Tacoma.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 13:01:47 - Snohomish - Parked in a campground

"Yeah, I don't think we'll get the rest of the family on the conference call. I'ma gonna roll down there in two hours; when the rest get the message they can just meet us." - Just so Nix knows I'll move out to recon the meeting site in about a half hour; bit of a drive from here to Tacoma.

[Shadow]

Gunny - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 12:55:45- Puyallup Barrens – Rutger St and Haven.

“Listen I just want… I just, will you stop moving.� The imposing Orc reached out and grabbed the kids arm. The ‘kid’ stood just over six foot and was all Orc. Gunny wasn’t a slouch at 6’4 and two hundred and 30 pounds. A little old perhaps, but still mean. The kid tried to resist, shrugging his arm away from Gunny. The older Orc stepped forward and squeezed, sending pain up the kids arm.

The rest of the kids gang, the Bloody Knife, reached for weapons. Gunny held out his off hand in a ‘stop’ motion.

“Now, listen just listen before you go pulling ceramic. I aint here to tromp your hood or cause you trouble or make you look bad, I am just looking for Katchya. You all know her, half the hood saw you with her at the Club.�

The Orc stiffened like a board at the mention of the name. A sure sign that he knew her.

“Drek,� said Gunny allowed, she was dead. He could see it in their eyes. The guilt and the pain and the thrill.

“Where’s the body?� He dropped the question with his drill sergeant voice. Hoping to push them into a confession before the shock of being discovered wore off.

A little guy, maybe 14 with dark hair and fearful eyes spoke first. “She’s behind the crash pad, we didn’t know..� he was interrupted by one of his friends hitting him in the arm. The moment passed and fear turned to anger. Weapons cleared their holster with shouts of profanity.

“Stop,� Gunny yelled, left hand squeezing the but of his pistol.

“Stop,� he repeated.

“One murder is bad enough, you shoot me and you go down hard.� He only had to stall them for a few moments more. On the other end of his Commlink was Det. Serg. Ramirez, a Spanish elf with the Star, half a block away in a unmarked cruiser. He could hear the car racing up now. It was over.

The two cars screeched to a halt next to Gunny, uniformed and plain clothed Star jumped out, yelling for weapons to be down. Gunny slowly backed up moving his hand away from his pistol. The kids surrendered.

Just as he was going to thank Ramirez for his timely arrival his Commlink chirped with Nix’s voice.

“Hey Gunny, I have a job for us, we need to meet at a bar in Tacoma, you game?�

“Hell Nix, I’m always game. As it turns out I am in Puyallup so I can be there pretty quick and give you guys a good map of the area. Time for a drink anyways, see you then.�

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 13:01:47 - Snohomish - Parked in a campground

OOC: Assuming the group of simultaneous calls was a conference call - was that what you were going for, Nix? We can use that to fill in the details. Also, I'm assuming we've figgered out the doublespeak on the last couple runs.

Smile wide when Gunny's voice comes in over the comms. "Hey punk. Heard the good news, eh? No sense in all of us going early, he's probably gonna have to handle a lot of paperwork before he gets out of the hospital - insurance type stuff and all. Can yall research the insurance stuff? I think his claims agent is.... what was his name again?

Roll my eyes a little bit at all the doublespeak, some folks ain't quick on the draw with it, or don't see the point. I'm used to assuming I'm being tapped or scanned. Same planet, different worlds....

Meander my way back to the truck and tuck my AK in the gym bag. Dump it in the shotgun seat wheel well, and make sure everything else is nice and hidden. Pour myself a cup of coffee from the thermos and start rolling back into town... take me an hour or so to get there; plenty of time to get comfy out side.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:02:00 - Nix' Doss, Tacoma

OOC: As people connect, my intent was to tell them we had news about Frank getting out of the hospital and add them to the conference call. I would neither have mentioned a job, nor a bar in Tacoma. I also assumed that the team would have worked out some double-speak and will continue to translate as Rob and I have been doing.

Nix picks up the few things he'll need that cannot be generated from pure mana and sticks them in his pockets as he dons his armor jacket as they talk. When Gunny answers his coms, "Gunny, just got news about Frank. Let me add you to a call." He then added him to the call with Caliph.

In response to Caliph's question, "Well it gets a little dicey there. This is a new agent and I only got a first name.... I wanted to give you all the news about Frank first, then I was gonna call my uncle about this agent." At some point the double speak started including references the team had not even discussed, but it was more important it conveyed the intent at that point..

[SinN]

Ash sits over a broken computer. It had been a while since zero zone, and he needed to keep his head down. He spent most of his time fixing things, building things, and pretty much, "things" became his life for a few months. He ran some errands and front jobs for MIT-Nick, but other than that, life had become kinda plain.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 13:01:47 - Snohomish - Getting on to highway 405

Call up the list of meeting spots we have prepared and do a quick search on my mapsofts for a layout of it (OOC: I can roll a browse if yall want). Queue the RFID tags on all the stuff in my van, to make sure everything's there and in its assigned spot.

Paying half an ear of attention to the commlink, but I know all I'm gonna know right now; if it takes Gunny, Ash, and Eyes a minute to catch up, thats their problem. Be nice to catch a drink with them.

[fistandantilus4....]

Roll Data search. Its a public place so the plans and blue prints would be required to be lsited with the city.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:02:06 - Nix' Doss, Tacoma

Seeing that Ash had not connected to the call, Nix tries to connect him again.

[SinN]

Ash is finishing up the touches on his new program when his com rings.
Okay, its either Nick, or work. Either way, I dont wanna awnser it...

Ash reluctantly picks up his com and connects.

This is Ash, speak to me.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:02:30 - Nix' Doss, Tacoma

OOC: Nix connected Aiden to the call as well

"Guys, I've tagged you onto a conference call. How fast can you be moving? We have a meeting with an insurance agent..."

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:00:30 - The Dark Eye (Aiden's Doss and Shop), Tacoma

Aiden turns the page of the book carefully, the latex gloves on his hands keeping all traces of him off the paper and his lingering spell keeping any biological material in the room severely dead.

The tome contains writings about the practice of aura manipulation and viewing, written in the early 20's before everything had completely switched to electronic formatting and art of printing had been nearly wiped from the face of the planet. It had cost him nearly every 'yen from his last run but it was well worth it, a perfect addition to the eclectic collection that is his magical library. A few golden tablets sat on a shelf next a jade Buddha statue and a holographic projection of a glyph of warding. Below them sat leather bound tomes and jars of various sands, reagents, and oils. A cross hangs on the wall next to a ankh next to a pentagram. The whole place feels like a trid on mojo exploded in the room, placing things from each practice indiscriminately.

"By separating some of the connection points of your aura to your physical body the projection of it to those viewing you can be shifted to show the pattern of someone else. Certain points will still match your own natural aura and so the careful viewer can determine the actual pattern.....

BRING

Aiden's commlink rings lightly on the table next to him, breaking the heavy silence of the room with a melodic tinkle of an incoming call from one of the team he had recently been working with. Must be Nix, hope it is a job. I need the nuyen after getting this baby. Letting out a heavy sigh, Aiden turns from the tome and answers the call, not caring to hide the slight irritation in his voice. "This is Aiden. How's Frank doing?.....Insurance Agent, eh? Sounds serious. I can be done here soon, just reading up on a case.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 13:03:00 - Snohomish - Truckin' down 405

"Think I missed something, here... are we all meeting the claims folks at Rachel's, or are we just meetin' there to roll down to the hospital together?"

Augh. I hate comms over the matrix. Be so much easier if we were within direct link range.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:03:30 - Nix' Doss, Tacoma

Nix had to think a moment to get all the double talk straight in his head, << Meet at Rachel's, then we'll go to the hospital and meet the insurance agent there. Can you be there in two hours? We need to be at the hospital in three.>>

Nix reviews the details to this point in his head, Rachel's is a reference to Katie's Diner on South 27th Street near the intersection of South J Street in Tacoma. The team will meet there before heading over to Finnegan's, a little pub on Market near 9th here in Tacoma. It'll take me about fifteen minutes to get to the diner and take us another fifteen to get to the pub.

<< See you all there...>>

Not much to do till then, Nix flips on the trid and chills for a little while.

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 13:04:05 - The Dark Eye, Tacoma

Aiden nods in agreement even though the others cannot see him, "Alright, Rechel's then. See you guys there. I am going to get some flowers ready for Frank in the meantime, I think he will enjoy them." Aiden adds the last part before the end of the call to give the others a heads up that he is going to be bringing a spirit along as back up if need be.

Disconnecting from the call, Aiden turns back to his new tome, sucking in the musty taste that lingers in the air around it. I will get back to you later dear, now is the time for business.

With another breath Aiden opens himself up to the Astral Plane, expanding his sight into the radiant aura of his library. The golden pocketwatch with its amethyst hands glows with its own aura on his desk, sitting next to the also radiating emerald stud earring. The two foci would be joining him today as well, most likely with their own spells bound into them. But the thing that stands out the most in the room to Aiden's sight is the faint subconscious astral form of an owl nestled on top of his bookcase. The totem animal had appeared to him on the day he awakened, calling on his own natural thirst for knowledge, and the spirit had stayed around even when Aiden abandoned the shamanistic path of his ancestors for other avenues of study. Owl's wide eyes simply watched Aiden coldly, always watching.

Taking Owl's 'interest' as a silent comfort, Aiden's hand closed tightly around the ring on his right hand that also comforted him in his castings. The runed silver band with its large emerald insert had been his last mentor's, the woman who had taken him through his initiation into the deeper studies of magic and the one who had introduced him to the wonders of the metaplanes. The thought of her reinforced his psyche as he began the cool steady chant of a summoning, calling on a spirit of man, or woman in this case as the spirit called takes a distinct resemblance of his former lover.

(OOC - For summoning I roll Magic 6 + Summoning 3 + 2 for my Mentor Spirit bonus for Spirits of Man. I am going for a Force 4 Spirit. I roll 6 Successes on the summoning test, and then I roll Logic 5 + Willpower 4 to resist drain: 1 Success. I then rest until I need to leave for the meet to get rid of what Stun damage I take. For the two hours I roll Body 3 + Willpower 4, getting 3 Successes for the first hour and 3 Successes again for the second hour.

[SinN]

Speaking in code? Why couldnt we have just encrypted the line? Oh well. Better let Nick know Im going out. Ill just leave him a message.

Message to Mit-Nick:
Hey Boss, got a job. Ill be out for a while. Ill let you know when I get back in case you got some work for me. Take care.
Ash
Ash gathers his things and cleans up his computer parts scattered across the floor.
He looks in his closet for a suit.
Gotta look professional.. He says to himself as he trails off grabbing at the black suit. Its the one he usually wears. But for some reason he always contimplates it.
After getting into the nice bussiness suit. Ash heads for the door on his way to check the place out before the meet.
Katies diner eh? Havent been there since I was a kid. Of course I have been alot of places since I was a kid.
Ash sets his security system, Walks out the front door, locking it behind him.
Time to work.

[fistandantilus4....]

@Trigger

[ Spoiler ]

One success to resist the summoning. Going to try a binding?

@all

[ Spoiler ]

Remember folks, until you say that you're going to the diner, you're still sitting at home twiddling your thumbs or what not. I'm not going to move characters without being told that's what the're doing. So please post to that effect when you're set to go. :)

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 14:55:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

The time finally having arrived, Nix pulls his Mirage out of the garage and heads down the street. A short trip across Tacoma and he arrives at Katie's Diner. Parking in an open spot he heads in and finds a table.

There was just something he liked about this little home style cafe. The wait staff was usually friendly and the food palatable if not sometimes even good. The decor and furniture looks original and the building is three to four decades old.... so it's a little run down and a lot out of style but that suits Nix just fine.

[fistandantilus4....]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 14:55:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Having been through a few times, some of the wait staff say polite hellos to the quiet elf, and fill his order quickly. They seem to understand he's not one for chit chat and quickly put his order together, in the booth Nix gets for the large group.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 14:25:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Drive by Katie's Diner a little early, as is my custom for these sorts of things. Drive around the block, record the entrances and exits, take some snapshots from my cybereyes for the avenues of approach, that sort of thing.

Park my van a block and a half down. Lock up the truck (and smirk as the formidable list of security checks by the truck's autopilot lists down my vision). Meander down the street and grab a bladder full of coffee from a kiosk, take a seat at a bus stop bench across the street from the diner entrance, and fake like I'm reading the newspaper off the screen of my throwaway commlink.

Not worried; team meet, no security info disclosed, etc. Too easy. "Self, aren't you being a little paranoid?" "No, self, gotta keep in practice. Real meet in an hour." Just for kicks, I throw up a brief terrain and coverage overlay of the area map on my 'link and tuck it in the back of my brain (erm, headware memory) somewhere... Keeping an eye out, like you're supposed to do when you're doing this sort of thing, but my heart ain't in it.

Fifteen minutes later Nix strolls by. I wait about 30 seconds, follow him into the diner, and take a seat at his table. "As salaamu alaikum, punkass. How's it going?"

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 14:55:45 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

As the waitress gestures towards the booth, "Iced tea"

Wasn't even a minute before Caliph was coming in behind him, As expected.

"wa `Alaykum As-SalÄ?m... Perra" Nix replies with a snicker.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 14:55:52 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Place my gym bag delicately under my seat and pop up a picture-in-picture window of the view from the AK's smartlink camera in the corner of my vision. Kick it slightly to nudge it towards the door.

Smile at the waitress and say, just a tad too loudly (I do this when I get enthusiastic, and I'm getting enthusiastic for some work...), "hot tea, black, with some cardamom and about a half pound of sugar, if you please, pretty lady!"

... and turn back to Nix. "So, the rest of the kids getting here soon? I'll leave a little early and play the incognito game outside, like usual."

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 14:59:52 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

MagPye pulls up in front of the cafe, parks his mercury Comet, at the curb, as close to the front as he is able. He smiles and adjusts his jacket, before buttoning it he checks to make sure his predator is secure and loaded via smartgun link, verifies safety is on.

Before he gets out he will look around at the vehicles parked nearby and any persons walking by.

Once out he will button his jacket, check his attire to insure it is in place and correct. Runs a finger by his mustache to make sure it is in place. He will smooth out any wrinkles that sitting down in his vehicle might have caused, and walk towards the entrance of the cafe, he will send a signal to secure the vehicle once he is away from it.

He will remove a pair of glasses from his jacket breast pocket and place them on.

Once he enters the cafe, he will quickly scan those seated here, once he sees the others, he will walk towards them, he will place a smiling expression on is face as he walks towards them.

He will approach a chair nearby those here he is meeting those here, remove his hat, Gentleman, will unbutton his jacket, place his hat on the back of the chair and sit down.

He will glance up at the waitress and give a brilliant smile, Tea please, hot if you have it, iced if not. No sugar or creamery products. Thank you very much. Wonders what the gadje think of tea here will taste like?

Will turn to those seated with him and slowly look at them, while giving a smile with lots of white teeth underneath the mustache. How fares your days, Sirahs?

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 14:05:00 - The Dark Eye, Tacoma

After a slight nap to relieve the little bit of drain from the summoning, coming away with a hefty amount of services owed by this particular entity. The feminine form still floated silently around the room on the astral plane, its distinct shape and the memories attached helping him sleep away the drain.

My dearest Sophia, Aiden addressed to the Spirit as he stood from the comfy synth leather chair is his library, You may go for now, my dear. I will call upon you later.

Aiden felt a slight twinge as the spirit departed back to its home in the metaplanes, wishing for a moment to go along with it, but it left quickly as Aiden started to prepare for the meeting. Quickly grabbing the two foci from his desk and placing them on his person. Aiden then spoke a quick word in latin, "Celeritas!", into the air while gripping the golend pocket watch, speeding his own actions up greatly and binding the spell to the watch. Boy Scout and Shadowrunner motto: Always be prepared.

(OOC: I cast Increased Reflexes Force 3 and attach it to Sustaing Focus. I roll Spellcasting 4 + Magic 6 and get 4 Successes which is enough to get the 3 hits for my focus, and I resist drain with Logic 5 + Willpower 4 and I get 3 Successes, which means I resist all of the drain. Also @Fist:

[ Spoiler ]

I didn't bind the spirit because I only bought Summoning for the character, not the Conjuring group

With his mojo ready he grabbed the other essentials from around his doss: his gun, his commlink, the lizard shaped Aztechnology drone he calls Gex, and finally his trusty armored trench coat that protects from the flashier spells just as well as it does flying lead. Finally feeling prepared for work, Aiden locks up the shop and takes off towards the others.

Wednesday 11 April 2070, 14:59:52 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Luck is on his side as Aiden pulls up to Katie's, as there is a parking spot near the door, well enough of one to be able to park his bike. Seeing the vehicles of most of the other's already near or at the entrance of their favored diner, Aiden quickly sets the security on his ride and heads inside.

He offers a friendly smile to hostess and quickly scans the diner for the others. Seeing them in a back booth he nods to the hostess and makes his way to the others, a slight smile on his face. He offers a nod to them all and takes a seat at the table. "Hope I am not too late, Aké iyúskinyan wancínyankelo (Sioux for "It's good to see you again")."


With a couple taps of his gloved fingers on the table, Aiden accesses the local node for the diner and puts in his own drink order, a cup of coffee with two creamers, no sugar.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:00:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

And here's the next two...

"Well, gents and otherwise, lets get down to it... I have no idea what's on the table - could you catch us up, Nix? Aside from that, yall know I'm no good at meets. I'll watch the perimeter and clear the location in advance, like usual. Just give a brief description of the client and a meeting site and I'll roll early. Flash you a text message about stock prices or some BS if the meet feels sour or the client rolls up with too much hardware. Eyes, could you send a ghost with me to help clear the area?"

I lean back throughout the spiel and keep half an eye on the AK scope that's watching my back... feels weird to catch people's eyes when I'm talking shop.

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:01:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Aiden listens intently to Caliph as he explains his usual procedures at meets. They had been working together for a couple of runs now and yet the man still made sure that everyone knew the setup before hand. Better safe than sorry.

As his coffee arrived at the table Aiden nearly took a sip of it before turning to the waitress as she started to leave and asking in a slightly apologetic tone and offering the best smile he can conjure, "You use soy creamer right? I haven't been here in a while and I can't seem to recall at the moment...."

After she replies (if actual creamer, Aiden will ask for another cup and offer to pay for them both) and leaves, he turns back to Caliph, "Sounds good to me, do you want a set of eyes or something with more substance with you?"

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:00:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

In response to Eyes, "Well, hell, if I had my druthers I'd go with the great ghosts of my ancestors on backup... Really, I'm not sure. Whatever's most convenient for you - still an initial meet, lets not go buckwild spending resources before we're even getting paid. A little more meat to it could help clear the area and point out any weirdness. If you just tell it to obey my orders until you get there should be good enough."

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:03:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

MagPye listens to Caliph's first words. One day Hunter, you may be the hunted, not all that wish to meet with us wish us ill. But I do agree that with a lot of the Gadje, some precautions should be taken.

He takes a drink of his tea, Hmm seems some gadje can make tea Gives a slight smile after he takes his drink and sets the cup back down on the table.

He then listens to the exchange of words between Caliph and Eyes. There may be a time where, you will not be able to be the sniper Caliph, some Johnson's may take offense at such precautions both mundane and magical. But then it will make my use of verbal agility more challenging, to sooth such slights.

MagPye turns his head slightly to Nix, and waits for him to speak.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 15:02:20 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Caliph had asked, "So, the rest of the kids getting here soon? I'll leave a little early and play the incognito game outside, like usual."

Nix replied, "Once everyone gathers I'll give what little I have. You can perform initial recon of the meet site." He then cranks down his signal strength on his PAN, opens an encrypted channel and sends << @Caliph [Nix] Finnegan's >> via text.

He nods to MagPye, the team's face, enters the room. Despite the mustache, the elf had a way with people that Nix could not place his finger on. Nix found the his low essence contradictory to that thought, but being a mage he tended to find anyone odd who purposely marred their essence.

When Eye's enter he replies in kind, "Aké iyúskinyan wancínyankelo". Amongst friends, he lets his native Sioux flow freely.

When all eyes turn back to him he begins, "Wonderful tea they have here. as he takes another drink. In the meantime, he adds each of the others to his encrypted PAN conference. The signal range set to one meter he was confident of a little safety.

<<@All [Nix] I have little information.... A woman calling herself Virginia contacted me using a trusted contact as a reference wanting to hire us. Travel involved. Time was short till the requested meet so I went ahead and pulled everyone together... >>

Nix thinks about the leg work he should have already done had he not gotten wrapped up in the latest episode of Doctor Who. The doctor had found out in the 20's that since he was the last surviving time lord he seemed to have infinite regenerations. He focused back on the task at hand, setting the class down. "A classic orange-pekoe blend. They make it fresh, boiling it before chilling it. Filtered water..."

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:03:05 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Smile as the bing of Nix's message pops up in another corner of my vision.

<<@Nix [Caliph] Roger. Out in 10. On station in 25.>>

See, now this is how ya do it. Direct link to link chatter, none of these other nodes in between... And let my thoughts race a bit... so nice when the commlink picks them up hot off the brain.

<<@All [Caliph] I don't know anyone who can do any legwork on the Johnson, but I'll call a coyote friend of mine and see if he knows anyone in this area who might be able to move us. Won't make any plans until we figure out what the Johnson has in mind for transportation options. That and getting some magical support to tag along with me are all my issues at present.>>

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:03:45 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Slight smile at Nix's mention of the tea. Yes I was mildly surprised

MagPye adjusts the signal strength of his PAN to down to minimum signal.

Takes another sip of his tea.

<<@All[MagPye] Nix any idea of exactly how much travel? Caliph can this coyote move all our vehicles or do we have to combine into fewer vehicles?>>

Sets his cup back down on the table top.

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:04:35 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Aiden takes a sip of his soykaf while everyone else makes idle chatter about the tea and its tastes. Tea never caught his tastes, it was just too mild for him, but a nice cup of soykaf, now that hit the spot every time.

Tapping his gloved fingers across the table, Aiden joined in on the link to link conversation while also dropping his signal to the minimum.

<<@All[Eyes] Don't get too involved with the coyotes yet, we don't even know where we are headed or if the Johnson has a preferred method or even what the job is yet. I say we hold off on the calls till we know what we are doing. Also, Caliph, I have a ghost read for you already, you should know I always come prepared.>>

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday April 11th, 2070 , 15:04:58 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Taking another drink of the tea. "On another topic... I heard there was another rumble that rolled out of Redmond a few nights ago. The Star is taking a lot of heat over that little fiasco."

<< @All [Nix] I agree, we have no idea how travel will be arranged. I'll start with my reference contact to check out our Johnson. If Eyes and Caliph are running perimeter security and Ash runs team #2 [in the bar separate from team #1], then MagPye and I can make initial contact with Johnson. Sound good?>>

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:05:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

<<@All [Caliph] I mentioned the smuggler because he's not in this area. Just a heads up to hook us up for a meet and greet with people in this area who will know how to move us. I will stand fast on that one till after this meet, though. And Eyes, of course you're prepared. But you know what they say about assumption. Meeting plan sounds good.>>

As my sugar with a hint of tea arrives, smirk and say "Wow. Never been to a diner and just ordered tea before. Usually get something filled with cholesterol, like 'eggs' and biscuits and near-Gravy™. Yeah, that Redmond fiasco was silly, but they said they got the dudes. Never know."

[SinN]

Ash walks into the diner. Fixes his coat and enters looking for the faces of the men and women from the "confrence call."
He decides he looks a bit diffrent then everyone else, and its better to sit down and look from there.
He orders a coffee, and takes a gander.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:05:20 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

As Ash sits and joins the conference, Nix uploaded the the session history to he can catch up. "Sometimes I just go to a place and sit and observe... and drink tea." he adds with a smile. "There's a little place on the outskirts of Loveland where the older gentlemen start their morning talking about the weather, their gardens and how things were thirty and forty years ago. It actually is quite relaxing to be slowed down by them." He looks at the tea before taking another drink, "and the tea and soykaf in these places always seem to taste a little better."

<< @All [Nix] Takes about fifteen to get there, twenty if we take the scenic route. Ms Johnson is expecting us in just under fifty-five. If Caliph and Eye's head up now you should have just enough time for a quick search of the complete perimeter. Ash, I was thinking you get there twenty minutes before the meet and blend in, Leaving here in say 15..? MagPye and I can stroll in right on time, leaving here in about thirty-five, sound good? Did I neglect any details? >>

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:06:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

<<@All [Caliph] I'm out now. Doesn't help if the advance element arrives in force. Better to trickle in. Eyes, if you need a ride, better follow me to my van. If you're coming with, you can do the spirit world recon, otherwise tell your ghost to tag along and do what I tell it, if you please.>>

Stand up, grab the gym bag, and turn. "Gents, I gotta run. The ball and chain is going to be griping at me for not picking up any groceries. Can't live with em. Can't live wi... nah, just can't live with em."

Queue a quick equipment inventory from the RFID tags on all the gear I'm carrying, just as usual. Grimace, turn around, and grab my keys off the table a mite sheepishly. Wink at Ash as I walk by.

Block and a half back on the van, keeping an eye out for anyone that was hanging around before I entered the diner. Dump the bag in the shotgun seat. Wait a minute before I leave, then start meandering (to the extent that one can meander in an off-road cargo van) to the other site.

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:06:50 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

@All [MagPye] Nix I agree the both of us make the initial contact. Leave here in 35 sounds good. Where exactly is this place?

MagPye smiles as he drinks his tea listening to the words being exchanged at the table.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:07:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Nix nods to Caliph and Eyes as they head for the door.

<<@All [Nix] Finnegan's. A little hole in the wall Irish pub on Market, near 9th Street, here in Tacoma. It uses the ground floor of a four story building. The top floors are illegal loft apartments, the second floor are several storage rooms and the like. The manager rents out the rooms on the second floor for private parties and the like... I stumbled on the place about six months ago trailing a wayward husband whose girlfriend was in one of the loft apartments. By the way, I chose the location so that's a plus for us.. >>

He then flags down the waitress, "Refill and a piece of cherry pie." Looking around to Ash and MagPye, "You all need anything?"

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:08:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Hmm yes another tea please and a slice of apple pie.

@all [MagPye]What is the area around this place like, built up, torn down etc.?

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:08:35 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Aiden listens closely to both the spoken conversation and the one bouncing around the cyberspace between them all.

<<@All[Eyes]:I do not need a ride Caliph, but I will be following in a moment. See the rest of you in 35.>>

As the others order more to drink and something to eat, Aiden politely declines and rises to exit. "Sorry I can't join you guys for a more formal meal, but I have an urgent appointment with a client that needs me to find her missing, and probably cheating, husband. I will stop by and see how Frank is on my home though. Ah kay wan chee keyn ktay low (It was good to see you again)."

Bowing slightly to the table, Aiden steps lightly out of the diner and unlocks his bike remotely, watching as Caliph disappears in his vam and noting the direction he took. Starting up his Mirage he takes off towards Finnegan's, going a different route than Caliph to get to the little bar.

[fistandantilus4....]

Caliph/Eyes-Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:50 - Finnegan's

Arriving seperately, Caliph and Eyes both get a good scan of the bar. AT this time of day, it's not very busy. A small establishment on the bottom of a rundown four story building that likely couldn't accomodate more than a hundred, it none the less has a bit of old school charm to it. Here's a place a man can saunter in for a beer, get one , and enjoy it in as much silence or chatter as he pleases.

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:50 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Pulling up to the squat one floor building, Aiden gives it a quick look over in the Astral while pretending to find a spot he likes among the many open places at the bar.

(OOC - I roll an assensing test and a perception test on the building to notice anything hidden, not really supposed to be there, or doing as we are doing and watching the place. Assening 4 + Intuition 4 + Mentor Bonus 2, 2 Successes, I almost glitched that. Perception 3 + Visual Specialization 2 + Intuition 4 + Mentor Bonus 2 + Vision Enhancement 3, 7 Successes)

After finding a nice spot with a view of the entrance, Aiden parks his bike, setting the security system with a flick of his AR gloved hand and proceeds into the place to keep watch from there. He sends one quick last message to Caliph before entering the bar:

<<@Caliph[Eyes]: The ghost is with you and listening, I'm going for a drink and a nice dark corner to watch my trids in.>>

Knowing that his comm didn't have a encryption protocol on it, he hoped that Caliph got the jist of his doublespeak. Going in for a closer look, going to watch the meet from inside. My spirit is with you and under your orders.

(OOC - I call my Spirit back from its homeplane and give it the order to obey Caliph's orders. It will stay near him in the astral unless otherwise ordered.)

Finnegan's is a small and comforting bar, the combination of trids and RL games in place gives it a more down to earth feel than many of the newer cyber cafes and bars around. He gives the other occupants a quick glance, using his quick eyes to search for threats and make notes of who else is there and their current interests in the bar. Walking up to the bar, he offers a friendly smile to Patrick while bringing up the menu on his glasses,"Can I get a beer please? And a nice steak burger would be great. Soycheese please, even if you have the real stuff...thanks." Aiden taps the transfer from his link to the Patrick, adding a nice tip as well to the bill. While waiting, Aiden also gives the bar a once over in the astral, opening himself to the other plane only for a second to check the status of the others inside.

When Patrick brings out the food, Aiden makes some small talk with the bartender while eating the burger, Wow, this is good, and also keeping an eye lightly on the going ons of the establishment. "So, is business good here?....You see the game the other day?...What do you think about the run for Mayor? Strouthers, Brackhaven, or Dzhugashvili?"

(OOC - Rolling the two perception tests again for inside the bar. Perception: 7 Successes and Assenssing: 5 Successes)

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:08:30 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

<<@All [Nix] The district in more industrial, the warehouses just blocks over. The crowd a little rougher than most places... perfect place should the scene get a little messy. They do serve a really good irish red that's brewed locally called O'Roarks.

Its an old neighborhood. People don't ask a lot of questions and most everyone has some sort of heat.>>

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:23:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

As I start getting closer to Finnegan's I start "looking for a parking spot," by which I mean driving around slowly in that annoying way that people, with big cars, who don't look like they know how to drive, do. Fake trying to park in a couple places and give up.

Of course, really I'm just getting some snapshots down the various avenues of approach to the building and marking the various small alleys on the map, but no sense in being that obvious about it. After I've gotten 360 degree coverage of the area I finally 'breathe a sigh of relief' and 'park my car' in an area that happens to have clear visibility of the main entrance to Finnegans...

Somewhere in this process a spectrally formed hot-chick looking thing materializes in my shotgun seat; coincidental to the fact that there's an AK-97 in a gym bag already sitting there. Blink a bit, a pause a couple seconds to organize my thoughts. "What's up, spirit. After I have told you what I want you to do, please repeat my orders back to me in your own words, wait for confirmation or clarification, then execute them. Please fly through that building and tell me how many people are up there, which ones of them have electronics or cyberware implanted in their bodies - like that implanted in mine - which ones have weapons - firearms, like the one you are sitting on - and which ones are Awakened."

After I get out of the truck and rearm the security systems (standard operating procedure - comms silence between me and the truck, it'll bleep me if it notices anything weird), start meandering around the area, cataloging the other entrances and exits and bystanders, taking snapshots through Finnegan's various windows. Keep my eyes out for various potential threats. Start assembling a situation overlay as I do it.

OOC: Assuming that Fist's guidance of Finnegan's as one story still stands. Orders should be general enough that I shouldn't have to reword it for a multistory building.

[ Spoiler ]

General perception test (visual) to know what's going on: Intuition (4) + Perception (4) + Visual specialization (2) + Vision Enhancement (3) = 13d6. From WOTC roller:
Roll(13d6)+0:
6,3,4,4,2,3,1,6,3,1,1,5,3,+0
Total:42

[SinN]

Another cup of coffee please.
Ash looks around for a moment, smiling at Caliph in return for the wink.
So when does this "insurence agent" get here? Or are we meeting them somewhere?

[fistandantilus4....]

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:50 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

The area around Finnegan's has a background count of 1, mostly due to pollution, and semi-regular crime in the area. No one within the establishment or building is magically active.

Peter shrugs a bit before answering. My money's on Brackhaven. The guys a skag that should end up in the Sound, so it's a sure thing he'll win.

Street etiquette test

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:23:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

[ Spoiler ]

2 CSP for the parking/scouting trick. 1 more for the specific orders to the spirit, although that is using 1 service.

The spirit nods it's "head" You would like me to invistigate tht building, and report to you how many persons are inside, how many have defiled their bodies, and how many are carrying some sort of weaponry, correct?

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:23:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Grin at the spirit: "Yep! Awesome. Just remember to stay immaterial when you do so, and report if you see any magic or awakened people or ghosts. And I regret if I sounded pedantic. You're the first ghost I've ever talked to. If you understand what I'm getting at and you see something else you think I might need to know, I'd really appreciate it."

And remain smiling for a few minutes. That was awesome! I didn't know ghosts were quick on the uptake. No wonder they're good at finding people.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:09:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Nix looks over at Ash and tilts his head now a little confused himself... "Uhh.. We're gonna meet her there..."

[fistandantilus4....]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:24:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

The spirit returns shortly.

The only awakened within is my summoner. A number of persons have minor defilements and ailments. There are eight persons in the bottom level, 6 in the second, and 2 on the fourth. Most of the people on the lower level are armed.

The spirits form hovers just above the seat as it waits for another command.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:25:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

"Thanks, ghost. A couple of questions for you - first, were the 'defilements' of the body of any of the people there as bad as those of mine? Second, where were the people on the second and fourth floors? Were they grouped together? Did they appear nervous or anxious? And third, what would be an appropriate way to express my gratitude for your service?"

Wait for the spirit's reply, and after it's done, say:

"Thank you. Please return to the man who called you, report the details of what you just found, and tell him that I will attempt to investigate the upper floors. That's all I have for you, and thank you for working with me?"

OOC: @Fist - I'm implicitly asking the spirit to assense me. Note that since Caliph has such high magic-resistant/assensing-resistant qualities, he won't actually be able to cooperate with that, and it's up to you what happens

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:40:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

After spending about 15 minutes in between the driving around the building trick, communing with the ghost world, and overlaying the recon of the area on top of the generic area map from my mapsoft, I heft the gym bag and begin my lazy little pedestrian recon.

I'm mostly just keeping an eye out for suspicious bystanders (people who are lounging around with direct fields of view of the entrance to the bar, or people who moved in order to lounge around and get a direct field of view to my car. And, of course, guys in trench coats and top hats lurking in corners and staring at me with shifty eyes), and snaphshot them with my eyes. Meander around, looking at the various shops and acting lost but really trying to find vantage points where I can see in through second floor windows.

As I pass close to the bar, send the following text to Eyes (direct link on my end - he's well within my signal of 5) - <<@Eyes [Caliph] - If you can get a read on the second floor, I'll roll in and watch the ground floor.>>

OOC: Assuming I'm just going with my last perception roll.

[fistandantilus4....]

None were as bad as you. The others were in small groups. One sensed of depression, while another small group seemed very amused by something. I believe they were intoxicated. Anoter was sleeping.

My services are ended. The only thanks I can take would be the gift of life, of energy.

[ Spoiler ]

Assensing tests are really not hard. Especially to see that someone's essence is below 2. ;)

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:20:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

Nix slowly eats his pie, drawing it out. He switches the conversation to current politics and little bits of current event trivia he picked up. It becomes apparent that he is a junkie for that sort of thing. At the appointed time, he nods to Ash as the ork gets up and heads towards Finnegan's.

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:40:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma
Nix sits with Magpye for nearly another twenty minutes before gesturing that its time. He gets up, pays the bill and leaves a good tip for the waitress. He muses for a moment, She probably works two or three jobs to support a small family. I make as much in one run as she makes in a few months.... Though serving pie probably won't get her brains aired out... Not as long as it keeps coming out that good...

As quick as the thought came, it went. Time to focus on the run and my own neck. Can't save the whole world and it sure ain't time to start trying... Nix has always been torn between being a good guy and being a bad guy... Some things never change..

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:21:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, Tacoma

MagPye exchanges conversation with Nix as he eats his pie.

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:40:00 - Katie's Diner, South 27th St, TacomaMagPye leaves a tip also. Even the Gadje who work need some showing how their labors are appreciated. Besides the pie and tea were beyond my expectations for a diner here.

He will get up and leave, paying attention to which vehicle Nix gets in, as he stands by his car door.

I will follow you if that is alright?

He will then get into his car and follow Nix's vehicle.

[fistandantilus4....]

Finnegan's - 1540

The evening is getting cooler, as a large bike pulls up to the bar. It's a large black Honda Viking, riden by a large troll. The troll climbs off his bike , setting the kickstand, and remotely keys the security system on. He shrugs aside his black synthleather coat long enough to reveal a pistol on his hip, which may in fact be a sawed off shotgun with his size. He strolls in to the bar, shades in place, getting a good look at the clientele after briefly surveying the street.

15 minutes later, a gray sedan pulls up to the curb. The passenger side door opens first, as an african american human steps out. His clothes are street and armored, his build is solid, and the way he looks around says body guard quite clearly, even for those not familiar with the profession.

The driver door opens as an amerind human woman steps out. The style of her brown clothing seems to match Seattle more closely than the Salish. She seems comfortable in the envrioment. Comfortable enough to let the other man do all of her looking around as she walks in to the bar.

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:26:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

(OOC- I roll my Charisma 3 + Etiquette 3 for the test: 1 Successes...not as well as I have been rolling...)

Aiden smiles and chuckles a little bit at Patrick's statement, "I am hoping Strouthers. Better to go with the slag you know, I say, at least you know what kind of drek he slots in." Caliph's text alights across Aiden's contacts and he quickly taps out a response....

{@Caliph[Eyes]:I can try and get up there, give me a couple of minutes.

(OOC- I have no clue how I would go about getting upstairs as I don't know what goes on up there. Is there some sort of drug ring running up there? Is it loft housing? It is where Patrick lives? Will I get shot trying to go up there?)

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:38:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

While I'm 'meandering around' people-watching, I notice a troll-sized bike ridden by a respectively sized occupant pull around to the front of the bar... not sure if he made me or not. Make the gun on him as he fiddles with his coat, record snapshots of him, his bike, and his gear.

Go time, eh?

Drop upstairs surveillance - doesn't look that important all things being concerned. Move back towards the bar and find the lounging spot I'd marked on the original recon (OOC: Somewhere within 15 m (cyberscanner range) of the front of the bar with good view of the approaches.). Light a cigarette at as I get there - looks a lot less suspicious to be standing around smoking than standing around doing anything else.

<< @Eyes [Caliph] - Abort the second floor recon if you haven't already completed it. One armed troll coming into the bar. Attachment follows - pictures of troll, with armament (@Attachment.pkg). Do not respond. >>

Make the sedan while I'm lighting the third cigarette of my lounging. Problem with close in surveillance - lung cancer. Course, I'm 'reading the news' across my throwaway commlink, but still register some alarm when the suited bodyguard gets out. Either they're taking this as seriously as we are, or that troll ain't with em... We'll see in a few.

[fistandantilus4....]

@Trigger - It's Pete, not Patrick. You've been told it's loft housing. You dont see any stairs in the bar. You don't know about Pete's squat or if you;'ll get shot.

Huh, well, you know that Dzhugashvili is "connected". Strouthers hasn't been doing much for their interests lately, so I doubt we'll see much more of him you know?

@Rob - The african american man form the sedan seems to make note of you as he moves to the bar.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:55:00 - Katie's Diner to Finnegan's, Tacoma

Nix exits the diner and heads over to a black Suzuki Mirage parked beside the building. He pulls the full face helmet over his head and flips down the visor then slowly wheels out of the parking lot.

He elects to take a straight shot to the meet and parks his bike just down the block in with several other bikes. Before removing his helmet he weaves the mana around him to clean up the cut of his clothes in order to look more the part of one of the team's negotiators. It gives his clothes more of a new look. More trendy as well. Once completed, he then weaves the mana once more. This time an illusion to change the appearance of his face. He sticks with subtle changes. No need to change his clothes, he just did that. He changes his hair color from his black to more of a platinum. The cut is more feathered, like from a rock band nearly a century before and his basic facial features sharpened, more like a model.

[ Spoiler ]

Fashion F5: 3 Hits
2DV Drain: WIL(5) + LOG(5) - Buy two successes.
Physical Mask F6: 4 Hits
4DV Drain: 2Hits
2 boxes of drain.
Watchers: 2 hours. Buy success and drain.

The spell takes its toll, but he wipes the sweat from his brow as he removes the helmet, locks down his bike and summons a pair of watchers to watch over his bike.. To the first, Materialize and begin barking like a dog if anyone touches this. He gestures to his bike and is careful to include only his bike. To the second, If he materializes, come tell me. Be very discreet. Try not to let anyone see you when you tell me. As a final action, he places a micro-camera discreetly on the bike.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:38:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

As I see the team members enter the area, I note them and broadcast the following message, directly to them.

<< @All [Caliph] - Attachment includes situation overlay and pictures of noticed potential threats. Note probable client (file 1), probable personal bodyguard (file 2), and unknown armed individual (file 3). If you have to un-ass the meet, note the identified exfil routes on the situation overlay (file 4). (@Attachment.pkg). Note that other patrons of Finnegan's are armed, but do not seem to be threats. >>

Bodyguard of the client made me; no biggie, he knows I made him. Nod cryptically as he and the client pass by (could be interpreted as a professional gesture, could be interpreted as fiddling with my cigarette...) and run a discreet scan from the sensor in my pocket. Shouldn't take offense if he notices, it's all business.

[ Spoiler ]

Olfactory scanner against both client and bodyguard - Perception (4) + Intuition (4) + Olfactory Scanner (6) = 14d6
Cyberscanner against both client and bodyguard - Perception (4) + Intuition (4) + Cyberscanner (6) = 14d6
For cryptic results, I have both Cyberscanner and Olfactory Scanner identification databases on my commlink at rating 6 (identifying chemicals and possible uses, like ammo; identifying specific cyberware or weapons)

Rolls:

Olfactory -
Roll(14d6)+0:
3,2,3,1,2,5,6,3,4,2,5,2,2,1,+0
Total:41
(3 successes)

Cyber
Roll(14d6)+0:
6,2,6,1,3,6,4,4,2,6,6,6,5,4,+0
Total:61
(7 successes, 4 if you remove 4 dice from perception skill, wasn't sure how to run that roll).


And, finally, note that the cyberware scanner is an active scanner - I'm not sure how one would detect it wiith the equipment in the BBB, but there's probably some way; if he decides to take offense.

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:55:00 - Katie's Diner to Finnegan's, Tacoma

MagPye follows Nix on his motorcycle to the meet place, he parks his car near the entrance of the building as he can. He checks his appearance in the mirror in the car, then gets out, buttons his jacket and places his hat on his head, tilting it abit to the side.

He will then glance over his clothes, smoothing out any wrinkles than may have occurred while driving here.

He will run his index finger across his walrus mustache to make sure it is in order.

He will take a pair of glasses out of his inner jacket pocket and put them on. He will do a slow scan of the area and those in it. He will touch his bracelet and his rings each in turn briefly, then touch the car.

He will walk towards the entrance of the building and join Nix there. He will put a broad smile on his face as he walks there.

[fistandantilus4....]

@ Eyes - The AmerInd Woman and the afriamer walk in together, and nod to Pete. He simply gestures to one of the back tables, well removed form the general clientele. The troll is sitting in a booth with a clear view of the fron and back door. The woman nods, and they head to the back table.

@ Caliph - The Tacoma aroma effectively blocks the olfactory sensor at that range. Of course, having noticed the Tacoma aroma, turning off the sensor altogether seems like a good idea. The car blocks the MAD pretty effectively, but you get a good enough shot to scan waht is probably a pair of pistols underneath his jacket. They're large, so they oculd be autopistols or heavies as well. He also moves like he's wired.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:55:30 - Outside Finnegan's, Tacoma

As usual Caliph is on top of the physical surveillance. The report is thorough and appears complete. Its so much nicer working with a team that has its act together and are pros than chasing down cheating husbands slapping monkeys with some two-bit trollop. He looks at the pictures in AR for moment. Now that he has a picture, he sends a message to Jack.

<< @Jack.Richards [Nix] Jack - Got a call from a Johnson (calls herself Virginia) using you as a reference. Getting ready for the meet. Can you confirm the attached is her? Anything else you could tell me about Virginia would be appreciated.>> He encrypts and signs the message before routing it through his preferred shadow server.

He nods to MagPye, letting the mustache elf lead the way.

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:55:35 - Outside Finnegan's, Tacoma

MagPye returns Nix's nod, and enters the building, he goes in far enough that when he pauses to look around that Nix has the room he needs to enter.

Once inside he will look around the establishment, nodding to the large Troll as his view passes him, pauses as he sees the two seated, the Amerind female and her body guard, then continues to the rest of the bar.

Hmm only two body guards for little olde us. Well let us see how this dance is performed.

Broad smile across his face, lots of white teeth showing. He seems to be waiting for a cue as to when to proceed to the table where the two are seated.

[fistandantilus4....]

Remember that the only face she's seen is Nix's. So even if she knows everyone else's name, he's the only one she'd know on sight, especially since he's the one she was referred to. IOW, she can't waive you over since she'd have no way to know you're with the group.

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:56:00 - Finnegan's Tacoma

Aiden notes each of the flagged people as they enter the bar, Troll, AmerInd, and Afriamer. He opens his sight on each of them as they enter the establishment, assensing them as quickly as possible before closing back down, not wanting to give away himself to anyone of them if they happened to be awakened.

(OOC - Assensing 4 + Intuition 4 + Mentor Bonus 2: 3 Successes)

Keeping up the small talk with Pete, Aiden continues the conversation on the mayoral election, "Yeah, Dzhugashvili has got her connections and Brackhaven has got his too. We all know Strouthers hasn't been favoring any of the "third parties" recently...so the smart choice would be the short man, but when have the masses been smart?"

[fistandantilus4....]

Nix- Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:56:00 - Finnegan's Tacoma
The reply comes back in a few minutes:
<<<That's her. Local fixer in the area, working on a retrieval job. Suit she's representing is paying top cred from what I hear, assuming you can do the job. She's new to your sprawl, so she may be a bit jumpy.>>>

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:56:00 - Finnegan's Tacoma

[ Spoiler ]

Assesning tests:
Troll - moderate cyber, tensed, working man type emotion , on guard, otherwise relatively good health
Africamerican man - heavy cyber, looks to be mostly wires and a lot of bioware. Tense, ready for action, good health
AmerInd woman - no cyber, no magic, trying to stay relaxed, feeling seems to suggest a bit out of her element, but a familiar situation

People are smarter than you think my friend. They're just not good at being smart to each other, just them selves.

[Redjack]

Nix- Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:56:18 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Nix moves through the bar leading MagPye to the fixer. As he moves through the crowd, he subtly types a message to the elf.
<< @MagPye [Nix] She checks out. We are good to go. >>

Nix approaches the table and nods to the guard and looks to the fixer, "Ma'am." Extending a hand, "You can call me Nix.". Gesturing to his comrade he ends with a large grin, "And this fine mustache is on the gentleman we call MagPye."

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye- Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:56:18 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

MagPye will follow at Nix's side towards the two seated. He will nod to the guard, and slowly reach up to his hat. He will slowly remove his hat keeping it his right hand.

He places an even bigger smile on his face.
Madam, I very pleased to meet you, as my companion has said I am called MagPye.

[ Spoiler ]

Etiquette 3
First Impression 2
Charisma 10
15 dice
http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=1097507
6 hits

He will give a slight bow towards the lady, while smiling broadly.

[fistandantilus4....]

Nix/MagPye- Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:56:18 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

The woman smiles in response and shakes hands, seeming a bit unfamiliar with the gesture. She stands as she shakes, as does the man at her side (on the outside of the booth) Please sit gentleman. As I'm sure our mutual acquaintance had told you, I have some serious business to discuss.

I'm not sure how you prefer to do things in your city, but I generally prefer to have a drink first, then get to business. If there are no objections?... She orders a drink for her self off of the bar's AR system, and getting drinks for who ever else asks for one.

She takes a long and slow pull off of her whiskey when it arrives, appreciating the drink's flavor.

[ Spoiler ]

WMS, thanks for the etiquette for First Impression. RedJack, please roll one as well.+1 modifier for the "good word" already put in for you

[WearzManySkins]

Nix/MagPye- Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:56:18 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

MagPye will return the hand shake.

As they sit down, he will pull his chair away from the table. He will use his left hand to unbutton his jacket, moving very slowly as he does so.

Once unbuttoned he will sit down, using his right hand to place his hat on the table, again moving very slowly. His left hand and right hand will be on the surface of the table.

A whisky neat for myself Madam.

Once the whisky is there he will gently pick it up with his left hand, smell it and then takes a long slow sip.

I have no objections My lady

Broad smile, lots of white showing.

[rob]

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:56:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

And, now, the simultaneously hard and easy part. Relax, sit down, lean back, and start going with the flow; watching for external problems but close enough to the entrance to respond quickly if something happens.

<<@All [Caliph] Perimeter is secure. Give me a heads-up when meeting begins. Notify me if yall are sure that the Troll is with the client's party.>>

Call up a scan on the picture-in-picture view on my eyes and monitor wireless transmissions to and from the client's sedan and the Troll's motorcycle.

[ Spoiler ]

Buying one success on the scan roll to see if the vehicles are passive/active nodes. Activate the RF signal scanner - my dice pool is 9 dice (Electronic Warfare (1) + Communications Specialization (2) + RF Signal Scanner (6)) and I'll just buy the two success for any time a test is appropriate (trying to figure out if they're starting their vehicles, telling the guns to arm, whatever). Not sure what sort of test is appropriate to just monitor comms to and from the vehicles if it occurs, since I doubt they'll be talking much right now.

[fistandantilus4....]

Nix/MagPye- Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:00:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

After a few minutes of enjoying the dark liquid, Virginia sits down her empty glass and puts on her business face.

Thank you for that indulgence. I find it makes business more amiccable if we can all share a mutual indulgence.

As I mentioned on the comm, your group comes well recommended.

The task I have for you will require transportation to the Peublo lands, transportation which my client will be arranging for you, assuming you are interested in the job.

You're being hired for the retireval of a young family member of my client. The person in question has been missing for three weeks, and magical tracking is proving useless. The Security Force is as unhelpful, and the one Irregular Asset my client has alreayd hired has failed to find anything.

Assuming you take the job, there is no set time limit, although naturally my client would like it finished As Soon As Possbile, and will require daily progress reports. Your pay would be :nuyen: 100,000, or it's equivelant in another currency. As to the sensitive and unceratin nature of the job, and the past failure rate, my client has authorized :nuyen: 10,000 up front.

Her "pitch" finished, Virginis sits back in her seat, apparently awaiting questions.

Caliph - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:00:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Currently all Pan's are set to Hidden or Private mode. There doesn't seem to be any comm traffic at the moment either. The troll is watching the group, but seems to be paying more attention to the entrances and the clientele.

[Trigger]

Eyes - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 15:57:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Aiden laughs a bit at Pete's response, adjusting his glasses with his left as he indiscreetly types out a quick message to the others.

{@All[Eyes]: The Johnson's group is magically negative. The troll has got some cyber and the Afriamer has got wires and some bio.}

After he sends the text off he turns back to Pete, nodding his head slightly in acquiesence, "Well, I must say that it would be nice if people thought more about each other, but it would mean a lot less work around town for everyone, and well we can't jeopardize the economy over a little thing like morals, can we?"

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:00:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

[ Spoiler ]

Charisma(5) + Good Word(1) = 2 hits

Nix considers ordering Screaming Orgasm, but decides that would just be a little uncouth. "Colorado Bulldog." is his reply for the drink.

He takes a mouthful when it arrives and a few small sips as he listens to the pitch from this new fixer. If nothing else, Nix is skilled in bargaining and keeps in the smile that wants to escape when she says 100,000 :nuyen: . He takes a moment to reflect on the pitch though, 100 k is a lot of yen. Ten percent up from to move the five of us across a border and track this girls down though...? And I need to load up on elements before we leave.... We need at least 20 k for expenses... or more...

Under the table he subtly gestures out a message as he looks at Virginia:
<< @MagPye [Nix] 100k smells of trouble.. and its the opening.. 10k is way too short. We need 20-25%. This is gonna be expensive. Who has her? >> He'd learned long ago, be the silent partner. Let MagPye do the taking...

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:00:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

MagPye nods slightly as Ms. Johnson explains the general details of the work needed for us to perform.

When she is finished, he will take his right hand and check his mustache is in place after imbibing the whisky.

Hmm lets see if this Gadje has the sand for some negotiations. Transport being arranged for us....hmm that will be a point for negotiation, she has been missing for 3 weeks the trail not as good as it would have been, if sooner, magical tracking has proven useless most interesting, security and another runner turned up nothing.

<< @Nix [MagPye] 100k, magical tracking failed, one runner attempt failed, and security force is unhelpful. I agree about the money being abit low, yes we will get more upfront money, but I have reservations about the transport there being arranged for us. This is will not be walk in the park, we will all need all the edges we can squeeze in. Also it has been 3 weeks since the target has been gone,,,trail will be cold. >>

MagPye will smile after a brief pause.

My lady, let me recap, the girl has been gone for 3 weeks, magical means of locating her have not worked or not possible, one asset has failed already, and local security forces have been of no assistance.

Your price is a very good starting place, in a negotiation like this, but I have some questions I would like to ask you, before we can get down to talking about the costs of the work you wish performed by us.

He will move his right hand slowly over to his hat, and start running his index finger along the hat band.

I would like to ask some questions regarding the arranged transportation for us.
What is the nature of the transport, ie will we be T Birded to the area, or by land transportation?
Can we bring our vehicles with the transport?
How much of the equipment we need can be taken by this transportation method?
Will the transportation be a two trip?

He will await her reply.

<< @Nix [MagPye] what do you think of the transportation offer, and do you wish to send the details of the job to the team?>>

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:02:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Nix listens as MagPye starts pointing out the shortcomings in the plan. Definitely simplifies the incursion if she arranges transport both directions. We need to know who might have the girl or at least why.... Kidnapped and taken out of country... That requires resources... Warded from magical tracking.. More resources... Eluded the first asset... Wait! Is that asset alive? Are the local police in collusion? Oh hell, this may have just gotten REAL complicated....

<<@MagPye [Nix] So many details need early clarification. Did the first asset fail or die? Is the lack of assistance from local security equal to active opposition? Was she kidnapped or did she run away? If kidnapped, what is known about the force that took/holds her? I think we need a few more answers and narrow a tag before we involve the team. I think its safe to safe that 100k would interest them. >>

[fistandantilus4....]

MagPye.Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:02:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

First, I did not state the gender of the victim. Secondly, the matter of transporation arranged is a small cargo plane, which should be able to accomodate a small vehicle. Obviously any issues with proper registration for any vehicles you would choose to bring would be yours to handle. Assuming you complete the task, my client has agreed to use his connections to make your return trip just as comfortable.

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:02:30 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

MagPye will nod his head.

My mistake, usually these matters involve a female being, but I stand corrected.

MagPye will again smiles and then he takes sip of his whisky. Puts the glass down on the table and runs his right index finger along the rim of the glass.

Now did the victim get kidnapped or did the victim run away?
If victim was kidnapped what details do you know of it?
Did the first asset fail by having a end of life force issue or merely unable to complete the task at hand?
If it was the second, in what way was the asset unable to complete the task?
Will the local security, you mentioned be a passive or active opposition or just indifferent?

MagPye will pick up the whisky glass and take another sip, while waiting for her answers.

[fistandantilus4....]

Virginia smiles, as if appreciating the questions.
All signs point to kidnapping. Magical tracking is coming up with no results, and the victim is very young.

The local security was making no progress in the case, to the point of indifference or ineptitude, so the other Asset was called in. He has since dissapeared.

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:03:13 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

MagPye will finish his sip and return the glass back to the table top.

What signs lead you to believe the victim was kidnapped?
What methods of magical tracking were attempted?
You called in only one more asset and he disappeared?
Was he alone?
Are we the next asset you have spoken too about this issue?

MagPye will take up his whisky glass and smell of it while waiting for her answers.

[fistandantilus4....]

As I mentioned, the victim was not of the age where running away would be possible. We're not talking an infant, but suffice to say for now, young enough to not have run away. The details of the magical tracking techniques I do not have. The client will have those for you assuming you accept the job.

The asset was an experienced investigator, and was working alone, to my knowledge at least. You are the first group contacted.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:03:30 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Nix listens as the two verbally dance. Young child. Probably a boy. Cargo plane and the first investigator seems to have met his end. Well at least we are not opposing the local fuzz as well. I know we're missing something... Just wish I knew what.

<< @MagPye [Nix] I'd say we clarify whether or not they have had contact with the kidnappers.. she seems to have danced around that, then push on the number a bit and see how much it was an opening and where the ceiling is on payment. >>

Nix casually looks around the bar, looking to see if they have garnered any undue attention.

[fistandantilus4....]

People sem to be making sure not to look your way. Finnigan's may not be as private as some other venues, but they know their rules of etiquette. "Don't pay attention to business that isn't yours, or it might become your business."

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:03:40 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

He will lower the whisky glass but hold it sheltered in his right hand on the table.

If you believe it to be a kidnapping, have your received any communication from the kidnappers?

He will then take a sip of his drink, waiting for her answers.

[fistandantilus4....]

No, which is why my client is so anxious. There has been no word at all. He would be willing and able to pay ransom if it were asked. Instead , my client is forced to resort to more desperate measures.

The fixer looks a bit anxious now, having accidentally let some little detail slip.

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:04:40 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

MagPye will remain calm on the exterior but inside. Force to desperate measures? Us being the desperate measure. Gadje female, this sounds like it will very costly to your client.

Why is your client so desperate to get the victim back, to have to use us for a desperate measure?

MagPye will set his glass down and run his right finger along the lower limit of his mustache. He then will return his smile.

[fistandantilus4....]

She blinks as is suprised for a moment, and her expression changes a bit, showing a bit of anger.

Perhaps you missed the part about my client's child being kidnapped.

[WearzManySkins]

MagPye - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:05:40 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Has a puzzled look on his face.

A kidnapper does it for some gain monetary or some gain of power.

Your client has heard nothing about the missing victim, no demands etc.

So what leads your client to believe this is a kidnapping?

What I mean, is there any clues or evidence that leads your client to this conclusion?

<< @Nix [MagPye] if the client can pay us 100k+ plus, to have us find and retrieve the victim, why would/could the client not be able to get local security to go the same job?
Kidnappers want/need money and or power from the victim's father, but no ransom demands have been received or the demands too high for the client, is it cheaper for us to the the work?
If this is an abduction for other reasons, what are those other reasons?
Why can not local security assist the client? maybe due to client is on the wrong side of the law?
Client is able to get us and a aircraft to the locale, a client with such connections is interesting. >>

[fistandantilus4....]

She seems to think for a moment, aparently not having considered the possibility before.

Quite frankly, after speaking directly with my client, I seriously doubt it, but I suppose anything is possible. However, there is nothing that I have seen that points in that direction. And unfortunately, ransom is not the only reason to kidnap someone.

[Redjack]

Nix - Wednesday 11 April 2070, 16:07:00 - Finnegan's, Tacoma

Nix takes a sip from his drink as they talk. Under the table, he subtly moves his fingers to reply to MagPye.
<<@MagPye [Nix] Lack of trust in local assets. There are a number of reasons to import assets. The kidnappers have disappeared into the shadows and I can see where the Johnson would not trust their connections to local assets.

Deniable assets. Local security have to fall within the law in what they do. They are limited against runners who respect no borders, nor laws. Local security have less incentive to keep quiet. They need to advertise their successes.

The fixer could be the one with the connections to the coyotes....

Back to the question of ransom and power. You are barking up the very tree that Johnson probably wants kept quiet. This could simply be to distract Johnson. Think about history.. Nearly a hundred years ago Clinton distracted the population by getting blown by an intern on the oval seal.. In this case, Johnson is now distracted from other things occurring around his that he made be needed to focus on.. On the other hand Johnson may know exactly what they want without having to be told and he doesn't want to let that be know to runners.

In any case, I think it best to let that horse lie for now. The unknowns should justify a pay increase. I fear how soon we need to leave... I need a day to summon some elemental support for this run. Once we get a name and photo of the child. >>

He looks to Virginia, "So to recap, here is where we are right now. Johnson's child was kidnapped. While out of country or taken out of country?

Three weeks have passed and magical tracking of some sort failed. I'll need to know exactly what has been tried so far.

A single asset went looking and has since disappeared without a trace. Local authorities have not been helpful, but neither have they been obstructing, correct?

Transportation will be provided both directions, but we will need to obtain local transportation once we arrive. The destination has not yet been disclosed but is in the PCC, correct?

If we agree, I assume photos and details including name will be provided for the child?"

[fistandantilus4....]

The child was taken from their home, within the Ute territory of the Peublo Corporate Council. Transportation to the are a has been arranged, but as you say, local is up to you. I am made to understnad that you are people of resource, so this shouldn't be a problem.

The authorities are as you say, unhelpful. As far as obstructing, nothing overt at least. It could ineptitude, obstruction possibly, or simply a lack of effort. Photos and full information on the family will be provided, as well as a DNA sample to assist your work, which of course must be returned, just in case.

Make Negotiations test for details on Magical Location tactics.