Atlanta 2070, Hot time in the old town tonight Options

[ludomastro]

Book sees the wound close and a healthy pallor come back into the skin. At the same time, the AR critters hop, slither, trot or flap back through the sideways portals from which they originally came.

System continues to sleep unperturbed.

-----

As Tank ducks under the doorway he is treated to what appears to be the gang's feeble attempt to set up a throne. A throne complete with dais and something passing for carpet. Seated on the throne is an older ork who looks up as Tank enters. "To what do I owe this pleasure, Lost One? Have you come to throw yourself on the mercy of my court?" he asks with a hint of a Spanish accent.

Off to the side, he notices that the ganger who was wielding the bat in his first meeting with La Pandilla

[Redjack]

A ward now in place, Book decides to find his own spot to get some sleep.

==========

Dalton surveys the situation. I think that trying too hard to appear to fit would not put me in a good light. Play on my strengths.
He gives a not of his head in recognition of the leader's position. A bow would have relayed servitude, where as ignoring the position would have been an insult. "They call me Tank. I'm looking to base in your territory for a bit. I figure it would have been rude to shack up without introducing myself." He pauses a moment before continuing. "After my recent run in with the Los Samurai-" he steals a glance at the ganger he recognizes, "I figured your turf would be much safer for me..." Direct will probably count more with these guys than vague.. "and with that whole 'enemy of my enemy' thing, I was hoping we might be able to come to an understanding."

He considered the words he used and his tone. Not too strong, not too weak. He knows he's and outsider and they know he's an outsider. He was hoping to play off of that and make it a strength.

[ludomastro]

Rummaging through the office, Book is able to turn up a serviceable cot and an inflatable mattress. The sheets leave something to be desired and he has serious doubts about them. The mattress is comfy - like it has cradled others and sleep comes quickly.

-----

The 'king' turns to the ganger in question. "Este es el muchacho quien hizo el dano a Los Samurai?"

"Si"

"Your work has been noted. You are welcome in my territory. Did you have a place in mind? If not, I can have one of my men suggest one. You will, of course, join us for dinner this evening."

[Redjack]

Snake dives into Book's dreams, slithering back and forth through the misty vapors of his mind. Book floats through the dream/vision following Snake as if in astral surveillance. Snake dives into the ground, burrowing just beneath the surface and then into a shallow grave. Snake slithers under the corpse, then around the waist before slithering up to the face. Book recognizes the face of the Digger. The dwarf opens his eyes and looks down. Snake turns and slithers down to the dwarf's waist where he holds a chest, with a lock.

Book sits straight up on the cot. The vision fresh in his mind. His connection to the dwarf obviously fuels Snake's interest in the secrets of Digger's disappearance. He'd long ago learn that Snake spoke as often in metaphor as literally. Damn frustrating.

================

Tank stands an anxious moment, mana flowing through his veins, steeling him like a cool statue. He considers the place he saw and quickly makes his mind. "Not really. I've driven around a bit, but I would welcome your suggestions. My preference is for a place with a double garage, or so. Multiple routes in and out would also be a plus. Dinner?" He looks for the right words. He would rather decline, but that would probably be an insult. "Of course. I would be honored." I sure hope I don't do the chicken dance or hit on his girlfriend..

[ludomastro]

Book's sudden wakefulness is interrupted by a thin voice from System "Enjoying my bed?" Sensing, more than seeing, he adds, "Naw. Don't get up. I'm good here. I assume we are all still alive. Hey, my arm doesn't hurt. What's that?" He turns to stare a what appears to be nothing before facing Book.
"My friends tell me that you did 'something' to make me better. I'm gonna go out on the short limb and assume magic."

Other than crank up the search routines and hunt for Digger, what are we doing now?

-----

"Vato. Show the man a few places to hang his hat. Be back by 1900 hours for dinner."
The ganger Tank met previously, steps forward and motions for him to follow.

"I have a few places in midn that would do you well. You and that drone of yours." A mischevious grin passes over his face and he asks, "We couldn't purchase that thing from you could we?" Continuing, he adds, "Anyway, turn left up here and I'll show you a place that some squaters are using. We could use a presence there to keep them in line and make a little 'yen off the place would make El Rey happy. I mean, you can pay, right?"

[Redjack]

"Yes, magic. I had meant to heal you before creating the ward, but distractions being what they are...." Book rubs his eyes and looks to the clock. (( I assume its somewhere late in the afternoon, less than 24 hours after the run. ))
"I need to go see a friend before she closes up for the day. Your space is warded with a pretty powerful ward. Its far from impenetrable, but its will stop all but the most determined and the more powerful."

He bids his friend and partner an adieu and heads out, catching a cab for Moon and Stars.

==================

"Yes, I can pay- as long as I have security and privacy. I assume part of that payment also buys discretion. I'd rather not advertise my presence. Not looking to sell my drone though, thanks. Looking the place over. About as good as any, I imagine. "I imagine I'll need to do a little fixing up. I don't really care how the outside looks- would rather keep a local look to that anyway. The inside needs to be structurally sound though."

[ludomastro]

Book finds the entrance of Moon and Stars to be absolutely swamped with protesters chanting "Down with magic! Magic is a sin! Repent sinners or face your doom!" Another ultra-conservative sect is railing against magic. While few in number they can be extremely annoying. At least they aren't throwing things - yet.

Tank catches a concerned Bolo peering out from the store windows.

-----

Vato smiles as Tank mentions discretion. "Not a problem. We've got you covered. Just understand that you have to keep the squatters from destroying the building as part of you payment. Mad Dog says that the structure is as sound as anything in this barrio. Here, let me give you to quick tour." Vato leads around the building pointing out the various squatters and their names. One that sticks out is a skinny black elf named Sticks. He is constantly drumming on anything that isn't nailed down and seems a bit unhinged but there is something more behind the eyes.

After a quick tour of the best prostitutes and a few gang approved drug outlets (chemical and BTL) they are back at the throne room for dinner. The entire room as been rearranged into a crude representation of a banquet hall with El Rey at the head of the table. Whatever is cooking in a big pot doesn't smell horrible but can't be the best thing that Tank has ever eaten either.

[Redjack]

Damn flash-mobs! Some loon comes up with a half-assed idea and every bored sheep in fifty block radius shows up and jumps on the bandwagon. Now how in the hell do I get rid of them? The thought of a big beast spirit chasing off this group makes Book smile, but he knows that would only add fuel to the fire. In the end, he takes a few minutes to observe the group. He picks out a less social, quieter person who keeps themselves far from the center and a person just outside the center. The latter being less vocal and not directly in with the central click, just outside.

He approaches the latter, leaning in to talk in a lower voice. He makes a subtle gesture towards the quieter person. "Do you know that person? The one right there?"

====================
He takes note of Sticks and considers he would be best not to underestimate the squaters. There's a reason the gangers have not removed them already. He flags the various locations in his com.

Once back to the gang's headquarters, he remains mostly quiet but not unsociable. Tank remembers now why he didn't go special forces. There's the mixing with the natives, the various DMZs and worst of all the food.

[ludomastro]

The young man turns to Book and replies, "Sorry no. You're no looking to make a date in the middle of our protest, are you?"

-----

By Tank's normal standards, the dinner was terrible. Compared to what it look like though, it was excellent. Tank was given the signature honor - according to El Rey at least - of eating the tail. He managed, with some difficulty, to choke down the tail but had enough sense not to ask what kind of tail.

After dinner people begin to pair off for either sexual favors and/or recreational drug use. El Rey approaches Tank, puts his arm around his shoulder and pushes a bottle of gin into his hands. "Drink with me for a few minutes. Then you'll have to go as we have some personal things to discuss. You did us a great favor with Los Samurai. And that is not easily forgotten. Vato tells me you are taking up residence with the squatters. Brave man you are. Keep that in mind." He is obviously drunk.

[Redjack]

Book keeps a serious look. "No, I think he's up to no good though. I heard him whispering to something a minute ago.... Like spirits or something." Book turns his attention towards the patsy, but still keeping the mark in his peripheral sight. Better to be vague about this I imagine. Stir up seeds of distrust internally.

================

Tank smiles. Given that the leader is drunk, he can take a few liberties with the story. He considers several angles for a half second as he takes a swig. "I am curious as to why you haven't already ran the squatters off. Anything I should be on the look out for?"

[ludomastro]

The mark stares down the target and frowns. "Hmm. Let me check on things."

-----

"One word my gringo friend. Sticks. He just freaks everyone out. I think he might even be one of those mage boys. We leave him and his be and he doesn't sling spells at us."

[Redjack]

Book keeps his eye on the patsy and replies to the mark, "Good." He then begins to move off into the crowd. This will take time. Too much time. Time to change up my plans.

The shaman walks away from the crowd, around a corner and up the street. As he walks, he accesses one of the dump matrix access ID's and files a report with Lone Star. He provides the address and a report that the group are discussing bombing. First the talismonger shop, then the Theomatrical department of the University.

=================

Tank nods. Of course he is. Great. "Alrighty then." He turns to his host. "Thanks for the shindig. I'll be on my way so you can get on with your business."

[ludomastro]

Book notices a Lone Star drone flying over the area. It pauses over the protest and the AR as well as the loudspeaker orders the crowd to disperse. Those on the fringe do so while the core begins to get more vocal. The drone begins coming in closer until someone hits it with something - a rock perhaps? Soon a patrol car with an angry looking dark-skinned ork steps out. The crowd begins to move away from the store. The cop sits there for a while and watches the group.

[Redjack]

Book walks away towards a secluded location, an alley or deep doorway. Once there he breath deep and washes the mana over himself, masking like an old man. A quick check with one of his micro-cameras shows too many flaws and a weak effect in the mana. He drops the spell gets in touch with snake and tries again. This time the mana flows free and strong.

The mask in place, he walks down the street towards Bolo's shop, giving the protesters and Lone Star a wide birth.

====

Tank rolls on back to the potential safe house he was shown earlier. He parks his cruiser and sits for a few minutes. Ok. Let's start with diplomacy.

He gets out of the vehicle and strolls in. Going on a gut check, he leaves both the big gun and drone in the cruiser. He does however keep his predator under his jacket and grenades in his pocket.

Time to find Sticks.

[ludomastro]

Bolo gives Book an odd look as he walks in. "Can I help you, sir?" She seems a little off balance.

-----

No sooner than Tank steps into the building does Sticks step out of the darkness. He says simply, "We must talk, young one. Come. Follow me." He then turns and heads deeper into the darkness.

[Redjack]

The old man smiles at Bolo for a moment. He slowly approaches her and takes her hand in his to comfort her, "You look as though you've had a bad day my dear." He pets her hand a moment more to calm her before speaking again, this time in Book's voice. "You should know I couldn't allow these fanatics to harass one of my friends. They'll be days sorting out what just happened."

=============

Tank is taken aback for a moment by Sticks. This is why I'm here.... He pulls his goggles down to give him sight in the darkness and follows the vagrant. "Lead on."

[ludomastro]

Bolo pulls her hand back and looks into Book's eyes. "Is that really you? You devious little ... " She breaks into laughter.

"I'm glad you came by. Let me put up the 'Be back in a minute sign' and we'll chat. You want some tea? How about something stronger?"

She still seems shaken.

-----

Sticks leads Tank deeper into the building. Eventually they come to what looks like a tent. Pulling back the flap Sticks motions Tank forward. Once inside, Sticks picks up a pipe, draws on it and offers it to Tank.

[Redjack]

Book morphs his visage to his own. He is not yet ready to drop the spell, wanting to use it as he exits just as he used it when he entered. "Tea will be wonderful. What is that all about?" He wonders how close to accurate his report actually was.

========

Not being shy, Tank enters. Being an avid fan of the American history, he recognized the concept of a peace pipe and the fact that it came from native Americans, who also had shamans. Dalton also understood that most ceremonies start with silence. So he sat and accepted the pipe graciously, taking a toke.

[ludomastro]

Bolo flips her sign around and drags Book back to the back room before starting to sob. "They said they were going to kill me. I mean, I've had threats before, but I never believed it until those guys came in here. I was so scared and then that mob started piling up outside."

-----

Sticks smiles as Tank takes a toke. He sits in silence and nods as Tank continues the silence. After a while longer, he speaks. "Coyote tells me that you are important ... that I must teach you. Are you willing to learn?"

He holds one of his hands in front of him and looks into Tank's eyes.

[Redjack]

Book comforts his friend. Their relationship was strictly platonic, but that did not stop Eric from being concerned about her. After a few moments, he looks her in the eye. "Kill you? Those pansy freaks? You have security footage of those guys? Any idea who they are? Did they offer a deal to leave you alone?"

======================

Tank raises an eye. On one side he wanted to walk out on a loony statement like that... Fifty years ago and he would have. "Coyote?" This much time around Book and I've seen stranger... Maybe. He considers the offer and his curiosity peaks. Book did say I was magical and that my magic is in my body... "Sure. Why not?"

[ludomastro]

"No, not, the kids outside. They didn't seem connected but they showed up right after those guys left. It was a big ork and a skinny human who screwed over my matrix connections. I think I might have a security feed on them but I doubt it. They seemed like they had done this before. I noticed that one of them had a tattoo. It looked like a cow skull with a snake coming out of it."

-----

"You have the Gift and yet know nothing of Coyote. Interesting. Let me begin with the simple. I protect those who live in this building from the gang because it suits me and Coyote has need of them from time to time. I would also extend my protection to you; however, I see that you are well equipped to handle yourself. I digress. Although my Gift may be small I heed Coyote's call and I reap the rewards for my efforts. You too could gain this understanding if you would learn. However, I see that you are still skeptical at this time. You do not seem to fear me so I assume you know another with the Gift. Speak to him or her and ask about Coyote. Then come see me again."

[Redjack]

<<@System [Book] Got a problem. I'm down at Moon & Stars. My friend Bolo is the owner and someone jacked her Matrix connection or coms or nodes or whatever. One of the guys has a tattoo of a cow skull with a snake coming out of it; Sound like any gangs you are aware of?>>

"Let me look into these guys. Oh yea, I'm now seriously in the market for that health focus. I'm thinking third circle. Fourth circle is probably too pricey for me."

============

"I'm looking to come to an understanding at the moment. La Pandilla and I have an arrangement on me using this place." He raises a hand to silence protests. "I'm not looking for a turf battle. Rather, I'm looking to come to an understanding. I just need space for me and my wheels; Secure space... and you have peaked my interest with Coyote. Tell me more."

[ludomastro]

<<@Book [System] Not off hand but let me see what I can dig up. Do you need me to run a scan of the place and see what needs to be fixed?>>

"Let me see what I got." She begins to rummage through the various boxes arranged in a filing system that could only possibly exist in her head. She seems calmer now that she is in her element. "Not exactly sure what you mean by circles but I think this one would be nice." She holds up a cross-shaped pendant. "Or perhaps this?" It looks like a pile of metal until she pushes all the pieces into the shape of a ring.

-----

"Hmmm. You do not seek to join them then? Interesting." He doesn't actually pause to allow Tank time to answer. "Very well. If you will protect our interests - to be left alone and allowed to live here - then we will not oppose you when you uphold theirs." His eyes grow narrow as he continues, "Let us pray that you do not need to choose between them young one."

"Regarding Coyote, are you willing to go on a vision quest, young one?"

[Redjack]

<<@System [Book] Yea. Use my com as a jump point.>>

As she pulls a pair of foci from a couple of drawers, Book fights to keep from dropping his jaw; Even more so after he assenses the two foci. I don't want to know how she has those sitting around. "How much are you asking?"

==============

"I am more than happy to be... independent. As to everyone else, live and let live. As long as I have no problems, I won't start any. You will spread the word that I am moving in and will be taking over some space? I will need one of the areas where I can secure my vehicle inside."

"Vision quest? Sure, I'm game. What do I do?"

[ludomastro]

<<@ Book [System] I'm on it.>>

"I ... um, I really have no idea, right now. Do you mind if I just take a minute to rest?" She sits on one of the crates in the back room and puts her head down and cries.

-----

"Yes, I will share with the other residents your plan and the fact that you are not part of La Pandilla. You most likely won't get any help but they won't bother you either."

The old man smiles at Tank's question on the vision quest.

"Not so fast young one. I will give you the instructions in Coyote's time. Now, go and enjoy your night."