Recruiting: Down in the Gutter - Second Phase, Life in Redmond's Newest Street Gang Options

[Whipstitch]

Yeah, ready to go here as well. Although, I was flipping through Street Magic the other day, and noticed they have a 100 nuyen price tag attached to talismans I didn't notice before tucked waaaay back in the Gear Index. Kind of annoying, since the quality led me to believe it's an item of rather nebulous value that may or may not be replaceable depending on what you work out with your GM. Guess I'll have to go through and cut back on my Armored Jacket's modifications in order to pay for it. An easy tweak and barely noteworthy, thankfully.

[WinterRat1]

I'll be looking over your characters Wednesday or Thursday, possibly as late as Friday. If Vegas and Slipshade cleared you, I expect there to be no problems. So by all means, get everything in order so after I review you I can write you into the game ASAP.

[Slipshade]

Spike

I home you didn't misunderstand. Any take Maus would have on Baby, Nevada or anyone else, good or bad is great.

What you wrote a few posts back on how you THINK Maus would see Baby and Nevada are great places to start and add it to your takes. That is what we are looking for. Take those couple of sentences and add a couple more and you will have a great take.

Takes are fun because they have no basis in fact! It is all perception.


Nevada - Baby doesn't think you're a whore in the professional sense, just that you slept your way to the top (IMG:style_emoticons/default/nyahnyah.gif) But if you keep being all nice to her, I am gonna have to change my take on her anyway. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[Spike]

Well, I've essentially doubled the length of my existing takes, and left no take untaken. I know its not a lot but I'm very much an 'in play' type. I can fake it for single characters like Maus by writing, good bad or indifferently, but when I start infringing on other people characters the value of writing rapidly diminishes. I'm having a really hard time with several of the characters (legion, for example) for reasons I can't quite articulate, and others for the same reason we've gone over: Non-combatants just don't register much.

Anyway, I'll spend some skull sweat tonight on it. I'm already failing in that the short clipped tones are distinctly Mausian, but the vocabulary is entirely mine. Maybe if I start really working into Mausian speech patterns I'll get a bit better 'takes' than this weird hybrid I've already used.




Also: I'm very strongly drawn to a reworking of him to include exceptional attribute and aptitude, while pushing the focus more towards 'unarmed combat'. I'm still undecided if I want to making him strong or tough (though with tough it'd likely see no 'aptitude', as I'd like to then keep the 'tough' quality... Amazing, I know), which I think would fit the description/concept more.

Unless I hear that its a bad idea I'll knock that out tomorrow early, and I'll remove the excess 'story' to avoid infringing on GM turf.

I do think spending his entire life as a pit fighter would qualify him for specialization in Unarmed, but as he's already freakish enough I'll sigh quietly and pretend that the option never existed...(IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)


At least I will be able to look dantic in the eye and say 'yeah, he IS supposed to be that big' and actually mean it.

[WinterRat1]

I do think spending his entire life as a pit fighter would qualify him for specialization in Unarmed, but as he's already freakish enough I'll sigh quietly and pretend that the option never existed...

You can specialize in Unarmed, as long as the bonus doesn't put you over a total dice pool of 4 (with that skill only, not counting the attribute or other mods) and there's actually a limiting factor. So 'Martial Arts' doesn't count, but you could say 'Offensive' or 'Defensive' or 'Subdual', for example.

[Spike]

You can specialize in Unarmed, as long as the bonus doesn't put you over a total dice pool of 4 (with that skill only, not counting the attribute or other mods) and there's actually a limiting factor. So 'Martial Arts' doesn't count, but you could say 'Offensive' or 'Defensive' or 'Subdual', for example.

Yeah, actually, that's in there (subdual specifically), up to four. For some reason whenever I read the character generation rules I see the dimly offered olive branch of going over four 'with a good reason'... but all things being equal I think that means 'yeah right'... or I imagined things in my fevered little mind.

Anyway, I've put my retooling ideas to 'paper' in the discussion tab of my character sheet. They are not horrifically extreme (not like making an adept a non-adept) and I'm pretty sure their legal changes, and they fit the concept as good/better than the current incarnation. If I don't hear otherwise I'll probably make the actual changes in the morning.

I'm just so damn... I'm a character tuner. That's what I am. Thank god its cheaper than doing it to my car, and easier on the insurance....

<insert random obscure movie quote-joke that no one gets, even me>

I'm Alive!


<end quote>


But I should probably just shut up and sit tight, quietly twiddling my thumbs while I wait to actually get started instead. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleepy.gif)



EDIT::: Added an all important NOT to a sentence.

[Eyeless Blond]

Okay, a few takes done, some more IC stuff written.

Jeez, how do the rest of you write so darn fast? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[lkim]

I got some questions while I was doing some math for the character.

1. What skills governs the counterfeiting credsticks and what would I need? And is counterfeiting credsticks have creds in it? If so, how much?
2. What skills governs the production of BTL and what tool would I need?
3. What kind of programs would I need for either production?
4. What would be, basically, rule for making counterfeiting credsticks and BTL? If any rules are there can you tell me? Or better yet, post it on the Wiki?
5. Is gangs from different gang could be contacts? ie. gang from Lotus or Heartbreakers?
6. How useful are contacts with rating 1 for contact? ie. gangs from other group whom I have done some biz in the past or currently
7. Even gang contacts have rating of 1 for contact, would I be able to get, may be some name and stuff, from the same gang?

PS. Thanks for letting me joining the game, by the way. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[Eyeless Blond]

Rules for counterfeiting (such as they are) are on p. 124-125. They are, perhaps unsurprisingly, mostly GM discretion.

(Edit): Oh, and page 259, for more details on credsticks and ID.

[lkim]

Note that some forgeries will require additional skill tests in order to pull them off; the quality of the forgery (hits scored) will
be limited by the complementary skill hits.

Now, what would be the complementary skills? Hacking, probably, but it could also be hardware, maybe. And what's the TN and stuff?

Bogus credsticks are especially vulnerable to detection; once either the original or copy has been used, verification systems will detect the anomaly as soon as the other is used, immediately flagging all transactions with either stick and preventing either from being used again until the situation is cleared up.

Hmm, this is somewhat weird. If I make a fake credsticks, but never have used it, it still flag all the transactions from the original? Shouldn't it be once the fake credsticks is used, then it may alert the original provider? Depending if fake credsticks lose the roll for the detection by the reader?

[Neuntöter]

Well, this is only how i read that quoted paragraph, but hey maybe i am actually right.

It sounds as if counterfeiting credsticks is basically cracking their inscription and then copying them.
so, as soon as both the fake and the original start being in circulation (and leave their separate data trails) the verification systems will pick up on it. With the anomaly being the fact that two identical credstick IDs are in existence.

[Vegas]

lkim

This is all MY interpretation of the rules, WR1's may vary and he of course has the "only opinion that matters" (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

As far as duplicated credsticks go, my interpretation of the rules would be once the sticks are in play after the original has been copied and they're being used they'll instantly be flagged as an anomaly because if you use one stick with the ID in Touristville and say someone uses the original 10 minutes later in Tacoma, it's gonna raise flags regardless of if it "fools" the detection of the reader. Id go so far as to say that if you had a brand new "Clean" stick that hadn't been used and copied it and used it, and never used the original that MIGHT be a different situation, until you tried to use the original when the cred on the copy was gone.... Because you can't just create money out of nothing by "forging" a credstick with nuyen on it, you're forging a COPY of an existing stick. If you're trying to create money out of nothing, I'd say that's a much more "complicated" process of hacking involved with trying to hack a bank and insert an account and make it look legit enough to not be caught or detected.

As far as TN's for forgery of any type they're going to vary all the time depending on just what you're trying to forge and with how much detail.

For the contact rating question, are you talking connection (because a 1 wouldn't be too connected) or loyalty? A loyalty 1 character would be pretty hit or miss as to whether you can count on the person coming through for you or heck, even accepting your call (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) Would depend if they need/want the cash or the IOU in the future. Doesn't mean that you can't get something out of them, but it's not a guaranteed transaction by any means (IMHO).

To create BTL's your going to need at LEAST a simrig (which would be your ONE up to Avail 12 item) if you wish to purchase it. Beyond that I'm not 100% certain all that's involved with production based off existing gear in the books so I can't be so much help there.

[WinterRat1]

Yeah, actually, that's in there (subdual specifically), up to four. For some reason whenever I read the character generation rules I see the dimly offered olive branch of going over four 'with a good reason'... but all things being equal I think that means 'yeah right'... or I imagined things in my fevered little mind.

‘With a good reason’ is code for: I may consider allowing Exception X, but you have to REALLY impress me before I’ll allow it. Is it possible? Certainly. Is it going to be allowed for just anyone who just writes, ‘but my character spent his whole life doing X and is world class in Y as a result!’ No.

As you may have guessed from the recruitment standards, I don’t impress easily. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

But it is possible, and if someone does it, I’m willing to consider making exceptions for truly exceptional characters. I’ve done it in the past and I’d be willing to do so again.

And just in case anyone is suddenly thinking about going for an exception, note in advance that the recruitment standards with respects to background are frankly just par for the course in my games. So going above and beyond means if you don’t have pages of detailed life history, and I mean detailed, don’t even waste your time. And it has to be good. A good starting point would have been for me to read your concept, and then your 30 Questions, and immediately have been absolutely bowled over.

It’s not being elitist; it’s simply pragmatism on my part. Everyone and their monkey’s uncle can and will come up with any number of reasons why their character should get an exception on something, so if it is truly that much an essential part of the character, I’m going to make you prove it by making you WORK. If you aren’t willing to put in the work, then obviously you didn’t want it that badly and it’s not that much a part of your character.

Regarding BTL’s and Counterfeiting – I get the feeling some of you think producing BTLs is an easy, simple task. There is an entire underground INDUSTRY based on producing both of these things because it’s not easy or cheap. Can you produce a BTL with just a simrig, some actors and other random tech? Or make a fake ID by whiting out your birthday and writing in a new one?

Sure, in the same way you can make a movie with a handheld video camera and slap it up on YouTube. It might be a ‘movie’, but there’s a world of difference between what you put together in your parents’ basement and what hits the theatres. There’s no problem if this is a part of your concept, just be aware of what exactly you’re shooting for here. Specifically, bottom of the barrel quality. Fortunately, you’re in Kingsgate, and beggars down here can’t be choosers. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[Spike]

H'okay: I've tweaked him as much as I'm gonna tweak him. I've got half a dozen ideas crammed in there, but no matter what, I'm gonna run into caps that keep it from working out, and rather than try to make the most optimal decisions, I'm sticking with the ones that make the most sense for the character.

In short: Maus is as done as I can make him.



I'll keep working on "Takes" and other non-mechanical aspects, naturally but he's as ready as he's gonna get.


I'm Ready for my closeup, Mr. DeMille...

[Vegas]

Spike

Only one small problem. You're over on gear by 75 nu. Other than that once you get it worked out I'm ready to pass you off to WR1 for final review.

[HeySparky]

Oh, right, I need to be given an official blessing so folks don't (arbitrarily) think I'm a goofnut trying to do BG work together.

I'll, as I like to do, put feelers out for a better nickname than I can give myself. The concept of my PC is a troll rigger who's done some construction work when he was semi-legit.

EB suggested Dozer, which I like. But I'd be game to hear anybody else's suggestions. He's gonna have been a brickhouse boy (though vocally not on board with the peacoats), Intimidation and Exotic Melee Chainsaw are key skills. He'll have at least a drone at start. Probably a Ford LEBD1, possibly a Doberman.

[Spike]

Damn! I'll go over the gear again. Worst case senario I give him FOUR sets of cloths instead of 5!

Welcome to the Brickhouse, Sparky! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

But what is with the 'peacoats' thing? Did I miss something somewhere about peacoats?


EDIT::: NVM, found it.

[Vegas]

Sparky, consider yourself blessed. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/nyahnyah.gif)

Just let us know when Banta is ready for review (IMG:style_emoticons/default/nyahnyah.gif)

[Vegas]

Damn! I'll go over the gear again. Worst case senario I give him FOUR sets of cloths instead of 5!

Welcome to the Brickhouse, Sparky! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

But what is with the 'peacoats' thing? Did I miss something somewhere about peacoats?

I think you just forgot about your useless hunk of electronics called a commlink (with no OS) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

And the peacoats (the navy wool coats shown here) is something that the original member of the Brickhouse Boys wrote into their background (see the feeder gangs page)

[Spike]

I just went down the main gear list with a calculator to check my head numbers and I got 2475. The commlink is on the list between the clubs and the ruger. Weird place for it but its there.

twenty dollar question: With no OS is it still a phone? Not that it matters much, but it'd be good to know just how out of touch he actually IS...

[Vegas]

Spike

my bad, I didn't realize you had it on there twice. It doesn't need to be counted in the "gear" section since you have it below in the commlink section with a price. That's where I got tripped up.

As for if it's still a phone without the OS, I'm gonna say no. Even cellphones of today have an OS in order to run. The OS would physically run the device, all the rest of the goodies as I see it are part of software/hardware packages for the bells and whistles (GPS, elec. wallet, PDA etc.)

[WinterRat1]

Exotic Melee Chainsaw are key skills.

Gee, what a surprise! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/nyahnyah.gif)

[Eyeless Blond]

Hm. I'm pondering if Drip could have been working in the Brickhouse's chopshop, dealing with the electrical stuff while cribbing notes on everyone else's handling of the actual vehicles. Sparky likes the idea, but I thought I'd toss it out to the others in Brickhouse to see what they think of the idea.

...I need some friends, man. The only character here with more negative takes than Drip is Grack, and Drip's not even approved yet. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[Spike]

Well, I was about to give my 'Takes' a once over... but last I saw nobody even HAD takes on Maus... is it better to be unloved, or unheard of?

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)


Maus was definitely a chopshop figure. I've put out that he actually lived in the shop. Definitely have to work in how he views the people who actually DROVE stuff. My instinct is 'necessary evil' but if I followed that I'd just be digging myself deeper in the hole on takes.... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/nyahnyah.gif)

[lkim]

Ikim

This is all MY interpretation of the rules, WR1's may vary and he of course has the "only opinion that matters" (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

As far as duplicated credsticks go, my interpretation of the rules would be once the sticks are in play after the original has been copied and they're being used they'll instantly be flagged

And I'm wondering why. I thought of credsticks are like "gift card," where once it is purchased with the money, it contains the cred or "money" in it. Which mean, credsticks only have to beat the reader's detection.

if you use one stick with the ID in Touristville and say someone uses the original 10 minutes later in Tacoma, it's gonna raise flags regardless of if it "fools" the detection of the reader.

This, with the same reason as above, I disagree. Because, again, credsticks don't transfers the cred from the bank to the seller, but it goes from the cred in the credsticks to the seller.

create money out of nothing by "forging" a credstick with nuyen on it, you're forging a COPY of an existing stick. If you're trying to create money out of nothing, I'd say that's a much more "complicated" process of hacking involved with trying to hack a bank and insert an account and make it look legit enough to not be caught or detected.

I agree.

As far as TN's for forgery of any type they're going to vary all the time depending on just what you're trying to forge and with how much detail.

Counterfeiting credsticks are probably, and most likely, very time consuming. I was wondering the threshold and the period. Credsticks are pretty complex or even intricate device, so I would think that the threshold would be somewhere between 8-12? And, I'm guessing here, about 1 week period? Of course, like you said, it's WR1's final decision.

For the contact rating question, are you talking connection (because a 1 wouldn't be too connected) or loyalty? A loyalty 1 character would be pretty hit or miss as to whether you can count on the person coming through for you or heck, even accepting your call (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) Would depend if they need/want the cash or the IOU in the future. Doesn't mean that you can't get something out of them, but it's not a guaranteed transaction by any means (IMHO).

I was thinking of like contact 1/loyalty 2 contacts. I was thinking of around 5-6 ganger contacts from the various gangs whom I have somewhat regular interaction by me selling BTL/credsticks. They are lowest or lower rank in the gang, but they too know where someone higher ups are at or what are their motives or plans of their gang. Not extensively to every detail, but they might have heard the rumors within the gang.

Reason for asking this is that since I have been around the Redmond for least 10 years or so, moving here to there, by my background, I was wondering if I could work in the gang as reconnaissance personal, acting as if I still don't have any gang affiliation? (Which in that case, I'll have to drop some skills or stat to make BP for Social skills, but that's ok, I guess).

To create BTL's your going to need at LEAST a simrig (which would be your ONE up to Avail 12 item) if you wish to purchase it. Beyond that I'm not 100% certain all that's involved with production based off existing gear in the books so I can't be so much help there.

Yeah, I was reading books, but couldn't find any rules for it either.

Well, thanks for the answer, if you get the final words from WR1, you'll post it right? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

OH! by the way, it's LKIM in lower case, not ikim.