The new kid comes up to me, trying to do some small talk. I ain't quite sure where the hell she's trying to get at, but I guess not giving her some time might ruffle her feathers. Why is it that people always want to talk about “their feelings”? I've never talked about mine, and I feel mighty fine. Even sitting, I have to look a bit down to make eye contact, which is something a lot of people don't like. When you get stared at by unblinking pieces of chrome, hidden behind reflective polarized hardcasing... well... it gives the creeps to some people. Well, fuck em'. I can take a 10mm point blank in the eye and still see.“Actually, it's Dexter. Dexter Pope."
I'd give her a hand to shake, but I'm busy shuffling cards.
“You haven't seen me frustrated yet. I ain't the talkin' kind when I'm frustrated. And to be quite frank” I stop shuffling the deck and start dealing a hand a 5 card poker “there are so many thins wrong I ain't sure where to start.”
I rub the back of my neck. She stares at me for a few seconds. I finally put the cards down.
“Listen kid; I'm sure theres a bunch of things you know how to do. And you might even do 'em well. But you look like your fuckin' fourteen years old.”
I pick my cards again, and scan them real quick.
“Lemme tell you something tho. You look like you've got more manners than the other kid” I jerk my thumb over my shoulder toward the jap girl “so in my book, you've already got yourself some points."
Full Version: IC: Dawn of the Artifacts.
I'd been listening to the conversation as I fiddled with my commlink, and glance up when I am indicated. I guess I deserve that, but you... I pause in my thoughts for a moment Didn't do all that much. I wish I knew why I felt so bad around him at first. I don't feel it nearly as bad any more. I give a sigh Why does everything have to be so difficult. Was it really best to erase my memories?
I adjust in my seat, trying to get a bit more comfortable. The armor is comfortable as far as it goes, but maybe normal clothing would have been best for the trip after all. Oddly it is the stomach, front of the thighs, and chest that have the most padding, obviously purpose designed to be most comfortable when lying down on the stomach.
I guess I could at least try and be friendly, it wouldn't hurt to join in the cards at least. I sit there, watching the conversation and cards for a bit before putting my commlink on my 'belt', moving the gun from my lap, and moving towards the group, I give a small bow of my head and ask, remembering to switch to English Can I join as well? I try and think if I know any card games, but can't come up with any off hand... well, that is what commlinks are for.
I adjust in my seat, trying to get a bit more comfortable. The armor is comfortable as far as it goes, but maybe normal clothing would have been best for the trip after all. Oddly it is the stomach, front of the thighs, and chest that have the most padding, obviously purpose designed to be most comfortable when lying down on the stomach.
I guess I could at least try and be friendly, it wouldn't hurt to join in the cards at least. I sit there, watching the conversation and cards for a bit before putting my commlink on my 'belt', moving the gun from my lap, and moving towards the group, I give a small bow of my head and ask, remembering to switch to English Can I join as well? I try and think if I know any card games, but can't come up with any off hand... well, that is what commlinks are for.
Sunday, April 8th. 0450Hours. Seattle, UCAS.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Ms. Johnson and the dwarf pilot known as Digits enter the plan. Digits walks through the cabin, towards the cockpit. As he walks by he winks at Dartha, and then leers at Vera's breasts, his eyes and head turn, still viewing them while he walks. He then pauses turns around and smiles at Dartha. Checking out her assests as well. He let's out a low whistle, and a chuckle before closing the door which leads to the cockpit.
Ms. Johnson finds a seat in the rear of the plane. A white synthleather chair, with a small table in front of her and a matching chair in front of and facing her. Her seat is a window seat. Turns to all of you.
"Good. Everyone is here. And on time. The flight will be taking off in 10 minutes. I hope everyone is getting acquainted with each other. Before we take off, please call me Jane. Our first stop will be Cairo. There we'll, refuel and pick up our hacker. Then move into Nigeria."
[Edited, added this description ] The engines of the jet begin to rev up. The loud humming noise and the sound of the heat begins to formulate from the aircraft. As Dexter deals the first hand, the plane begins to slowly move towards the runway.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Ms. Johnson and the dwarf pilot known as Digits enter the plan. Digits walks through the cabin, towards the cockpit. As he walks by he winks at Dartha, and then leers at Vera's breasts, his eyes and head turn, still viewing them while he walks. He then pauses turns around and smiles at Dartha. Checking out her assests as well. He let's out a low whistle, and a chuckle before closing the door which leads to the cockpit.
Ms. Johnson finds a seat in the rear of the plane. A white synthleather chair, with a small table in front of her and a matching chair in front of and facing her. Her seat is a window seat. Turns to all of you.
"Good. Everyone is here. And on time. The flight will be taking off in 10 minutes. I hope everyone is getting acquainted with each other. Before we take off, please call me Jane. Our first stop will be Cairo. There we'll, refuel and pick up our hacker. Then move into Nigeria."
[Edited, added this description ] The engines of the jet begin to rev up. The loud humming noise and the sound of the heat begins to formulate from the aircraft. As Dexter deals the first hand, the plane begins to slowly move towards the runway.
As soon as Ms. Johnson finishes speaking, Dartha turns to squarely face Dexter.
“Dexter. My apologies,” she says contritely, looking at him frankly.
She stares into Dexter’s eyes, entirely unfazed by the chrome. She’d never dream of putting something like that into her body, but that doesn’t mean she’s offended or frightened by obvious implants in others. Actually, given the current trends toward biological enhancement and highly subtle cybernetic implants, the sight of so much blatant chrome is inherently fascinating to her.
“I’m not ordinarily one to ignore input from more experienced individuals, especially when that input might just keep something from biting me on the hoop later on. Would you be so kind as to share with us the list of things that are wrong? One place to start would be things we might be able to fix before takeoff. After that, I would like to hear about things that might get us killed when we land in Lagos. If you still have concerns at that point, maybe we can just start going through what’s left in whatever order they occur to you.” She sits back in her chair, completely attentive of the older man waiting for his response.
“Dexter. My apologies,” she says contritely, looking at him frankly.
She stares into Dexter’s eyes, entirely unfazed by the chrome. She’d never dream of putting something like that into her body, but that doesn’t mean she’s offended or frightened by obvious implants in others. Actually, given the current trends toward biological enhancement and highly subtle cybernetic implants, the sight of so much blatant chrome is inherently fascinating to her.
“I’m not ordinarily one to ignore input from more experienced individuals, especially when that input might just keep something from biting me on the hoop later on. Would you be so kind as to share with us the list of things that are wrong? One place to start would be things we might be able to fix before takeoff. After that, I would like to hear about things that might get us killed when we land in Lagos. If you still have concerns at that point, maybe we can just start going through what’s left in whatever order they occur to you.” She sits back in her chair, completely attentive of the older man waiting for his response.
Part of me can't really decide if its sarcasm, or genuine concern. Guess not everyone has my sense of humor. The jet starts to slowly creep out of the hangar; not a bad thing. I can't wait to get in the air... mostly because I can't wait to touch down. My knees are already starting to cringe.I can't help myself but crack half a smile at the kid's remarks.
“Things that might get us killed? How about fuckin' bullets for starters?”
I shake my head a bit, partly in disbelief.
“Kid, when I say many things were wrong, I meant with the world in general....”
Out the corner of my eye, I can see Hodder's shoulders bobbing up and down as he laughs quietly. At least, he seems to get the joke.
“But if you want one advice once we have boots on the ground; keep your eyes peeled, shut the fuck up and if anyone starts to shoot at anything, shoot in the same general direction.”
I look at my cards again. I hope these people can play a bit....
“Oh yea; I've got only one rule: don't touch my guns. Ever. They'll kill you before I can. And I ain't even fuckin kidding.”
“Things that might get us killed? How about fuckin' bullets for starters?”
I shake my head a bit, partly in disbelief.
“Kid, when I say many things were wrong, I meant with the world in general....”
Out the corner of my eye, I can see Hodder's shoulders bobbing up and down as he laughs quietly. At least, he seems to get the joke.
“But if you want one advice once we have boots on the ground; keep your eyes peeled, shut the fuck up and if anyone starts to shoot at anything, shoot in the same general direction.”
I look at my cards again. I hope these people can play a bit....
“Oh yea; I've got only one rule: don't touch my guns. Ever. They'll kill you before I can. And I ain't even fuckin kidding.”
"You needn't worry about me touching your guns, Dexter," she says seriously "I don't use them. I always keep my eyes peeled and I speak when I feel the need."
She locks eyes with the man and says "I'll leave you to handle the bullets and bombs, but when the magic starts to fly, I hope you'll trust me to know what I'm doing," and holds his eyes, expecting an answer. "That's why I'm here. I'd tell you 'I'm not fourteen' but I don't think you'd be any more reassured by by real age." She gives Dexter a warm reassuring smile, but her eyes are still holding his intently.
She locks eyes with the man and says "I'll leave you to handle the bullets and bombs, but when the magic starts to fly, I hope you'll trust me to know what I'm doing," and holds his eyes, expecting an answer. "That's why I'm here. I'd tell you 'I'm not fourteen' but I don't think you'd be any more reassured by by real age." She gives Dexter a warm reassuring smile, but her eyes are still holding his intently.
Sunday, April 8th. 0500Hours. Seattle, UCAS.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Hodder finishes helping with the loading and embarks on the plane with Dexter. He wonders if Dexter noticed the extra solidity when he slapped Hodder on the back. Dexter seems to respect solidity.
On the plane, there is a new girl. "God, the hormones in this plane!" He opens himself to the astral as he usually does in a new situation, and sees what he can tell about the new comer, obviously a teammate. Why didn't Jane tell us there would be more of us? Do we have enough medicine?"
The interplay among the women is amazing. "What a catfight this is turning out to be. And with all the displaying, I better protect myself. There is jockeying for position and control here, for sure, and I don't want to be a pawn."
Hodder sits back for a game of cards and the show that manifests itself around him.
"So, Jane, are there any other team members we don't know about? And do we have enough medicine for the extras as well?"
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Hodder finishes helping with the loading and embarks on the plane with Dexter. He wonders if Dexter noticed the extra solidity when he slapped Hodder on the back. Dexter seems to respect solidity.
On the plane, there is a new girl. "God, the hormones in this plane!" He opens himself to the astral as he usually does in a new situation, and sees what he can tell about the new comer, obviously a teammate. Why didn't Jane tell us there would be more of us? Do we have enough medicine?"
[ Spoiler ]
The interplay among the women is amazing. "What a catfight this is turning out to be. And with all the displaying, I better protect myself. There is jockeying for position and control here, for sure, and I don't want to be a pawn."
[ Spoiler ]
Hodder sits back for a game of cards and the show that manifests itself around him.
"So, Jane, are there any other team members we don't know about? And do we have enough medicine for the extras as well?"
When Holder opens himself to the Astral, he sees the young woman's blazing aura and almost instantly becomes aware of the powerful and intricate arcane device around her right wrist, pulsing and crackling with energy, some of it seeming to wreath her, more integrating itself into her aura and a thread integrating back into her body.
For Hodder:
For Hodder:
[ Spoiler ]
Japanese:
"So how do you play this game?" I finally ask. I wonder if his guns are really that special.
[ Spoiler ]
Doesn't anyone listen to anything?That said I have no idea what I'm supposed to be doing with these cards. Four of them are red though, and three of them have pictures on them. When my turn comes around I get rid of the black card, I'm sure having them all the same color is good for something. One has a 10 in the corner, another a Q, one a J, one a K, and one an A."So how do you play this game?" I finally ask. I wonder if his guns are really that special.
Vera pourse herself another glass of whisky.
"Anyone else want a shot?"
She wondered how long they would survive in Lagos, at the moment there was a huge fight going on, and it was about the men being pawns.
Vera looks over her cards she has a two pair,a ten and an eight. In short trash.
She looks over at the Japanese girl, whose name at the moment eludes her.
Japanese:
"In casual play, the right to deal a hand typically rotates among the players in this case it starts with Mr. Pope owning the cards. The next one to deal would be you.
One or more players are usually required to make forced bets, usually either an ante or a blind bet (sometimes both). The dealer shuffles the cards, the player one chair to his right cuts, and the dealer deals the appropriate number of cards to the players one at a time, beginning with the player to his left. Cards are dealt face-down.
After the initial deal, the first of what may be several betting rounds begins. Between rounds, the players' hands develop in some way, often by being dealt additional cards or replacing cards previously dealt. At the end of each round, all bets are gathered into the central pot.
At any time during a betting round, if one player bets and no opponents choose to call (match) the bet and instead fold, the hand ends immediately, the bettor is awarded the pot, no cards are required to be shown, and the next hand begins. This is what makes bluffing possible. Bluffing is a primary feature of poker, one that distinguishes it from other vying games and from other games that make use of poker hand rankings.
At the end of the last betting round, if more than one player remains, there is a showdown, in which the players reveal their previously hidden cards and evaluate their hands. The player with the best hand according to the poker variant being played wins the pot. A poker hand consists of five cards."
"This is the game in its most simplest form, in short you have to play against the other players. The cards are simply another, more simpler game. I'll send the two of you a list of poker hand rankings for you to look at."
"I take it this is a gentleman's game, so no using commlinks to count cards or AROs to mark cards? Mr. Pope as he owner of the cards what do you consider acceptable for betting? Tokens, like clothing or money?"
"Anyone else want a shot?"
She wondered how long they would survive in Lagos, at the moment there was a huge fight going on, and it was about the men being pawns.
Vera looks over her cards she has a two pair,a ten and an eight. In short trash.
She looks over at the Japanese girl, whose name at the moment eludes her.
Japanese:
[ Spoiler ]
"In casual play, the right to deal a hand typically rotates among the players in this case it starts with Mr. Pope owning the cards. The next one to deal would be you.
One or more players are usually required to make forced bets, usually either an ante or a blind bet (sometimes both). The dealer shuffles the cards, the player one chair to his right cuts, and the dealer deals the appropriate number of cards to the players one at a time, beginning with the player to his left. Cards are dealt face-down.
After the initial deal, the first of what may be several betting rounds begins. Between rounds, the players' hands develop in some way, often by being dealt additional cards or replacing cards previously dealt. At the end of each round, all bets are gathered into the central pot.
At any time during a betting round, if one player bets and no opponents choose to call (match) the bet and instead fold, the hand ends immediately, the bettor is awarded the pot, no cards are required to be shown, and the next hand begins. This is what makes bluffing possible. Bluffing is a primary feature of poker, one that distinguishes it from other vying games and from other games that make use of poker hand rankings.
At the end of the last betting round, if more than one player remains, there is a showdown, in which the players reveal their previously hidden cards and evaluate their hands. The player with the best hand according to the poker variant being played wins the pot. A poker hand consists of five cards."
"This is the game in its most simplest form, in short you have to play against the other players. The cards are simply another, more simpler game. I'll send the two of you a list of poker hand rankings for you to look at."
"I take it this is a gentleman's game, so no using commlinks to count cards or AROs to mark cards? Mr. Pope as he owner of the cards what do you consider acceptable for betting? Tokens, like clothing or money?"
Japanese:
I'm glad I wasn't drinking anything, as I'm sure I would have choked when she mentioned using clothing to be on the game. I can feel the blood rushing to my face at the comment. I consider stopping it, but figure it is too late. I don't really want to risk money, as I still haven't figured out how much is alot yet. I know how much the food and stuff cost me, and I know how much I'm getting paid, and I saw a few things in the mall, but that is about it. Why isn't my memory kicking in at all for that...? I certainly don't plan on betting any of my clothing, as I'm not wearing quite as much as it looks like I am, and.. well.
So for the moment I just don't comment on the playing for tokens, hoping someone else will turn down the idea, or that I don't loose just too much money.
[ Spoiler ]
I glance over at the new girl, curious if she seems to be able to understand what we're saying or not. The information shows up on my commlink, and I access it quickly, reading over the hand list.I'm glad I wasn't drinking anything, as I'm sure I would have choked when she mentioned using clothing to be on the game. I can feel the blood rushing to my face at the comment. I consider stopping it, but figure it is too late. I don't really want to risk money, as I still haven't figured out how much is alot yet. I know how much the food and stuff cost me, and I know how much I'm getting paid, and I saw a few things in the mall, but that is about it. Why isn't my memory kicking in at all for that...? I certainly don't plan on betting any of my clothing, as I'm not wearing quite as much as it looks like I am, and.. well.
So for the moment I just don't comment on the playing for tokens, hoping someone else will turn down the idea, or that I don't loose just too much money.
Right about this fucking moment, I start wishing I had brought some chewing tobacco with me. Vere looks tipsy, Hodder looks giddy, the jap girl looks real damn confused, and that new kid is an inch from humping my leg like a crazy chiwawa. What a fukin' day... Right about now, I try to do my best to concentrate on the first hand of the game.
“Guess thats good to hear, kid.”
I really ain't feeling the small talk... but she doesn't seem like the kind to back off. Before I know it, people start chatting away in jap. At least, it sounds like japanese. Like I'd really know anyways. Not that I care a whole lot what they're saying. Probably exchanging muffin receipies... or maybe talking trash about makeup. You know... that girl stuff. I rub the five o'clock shadow thats already starting to grow back on my face. Vera goes about explaining the rules of the game, saving me the hassle of doing it. At least, she's sober enough to string whole sentences togheter. Maybe thats how she deals with stress. We've all got our ways of coping with the job. Some get shit faced. Others hook up with strangers. Guess the gal does both.
She then offers a round of strip poker. Like I'm into kiddy porn or something. Maybe Hodder is... after all, kids are about his general height and build. I don't judge the man no less. Everyone's got their tastes. I guess.
“Toots” I start, adressing Vera “I'm sure you're fine under that dress, but I'd rather not take the risk of having yall seeing Mac here” I jab Hodder with my elbow “expose himself.”
“Guess thats good to hear, kid.”
I really ain't feeling the small talk... but she doesn't seem like the kind to back off. Before I know it, people start chatting away in jap. At least, it sounds like japanese. Like I'd really know anyways. Not that I care a whole lot what they're saying. Probably exchanging muffin receipies... or maybe talking trash about makeup. You know... that girl stuff. I rub the five o'clock shadow thats already starting to grow back on my face. Vera goes about explaining the rules of the game, saving me the hassle of doing it. At least, she's sober enough to string whole sentences togheter. Maybe thats how she deals with stress. We've all got our ways of coping with the job. Some get shit faced. Others hook up with strangers. Guess the gal does both.
She then offers a round of strip poker. Like I'm into kiddy porn or something. Maybe Hodder is... after all, kids are about his general height and build. I don't judge the man no less. Everyone's got their tastes. I guess.
“Toots” I start, adressing Vera “I'm sure you're fine under that dress, but I'd rather not take the risk of having yall seeing Mac here” I jab Hodder with my elbow “expose himself.”
Dartha gives up and laughs delightedly at Dexter's comment. "Oh, he's going to be FUN!"
"Don't worry, Dexter, I'm sure those of you who plan to play can come up with something. I, on the other hand, am going to settle down for pre-mission prep if you all are just going to play cards." She starts out ammused but by the end she's completely serious.
"Is there anything any of you'd like to tell me before you start, or that you feel you need to know?"
"Don't worry, Dexter, I'm sure those of you who plan to play can come up with something. I, on the other hand, am going to settle down for pre-mission prep if you all are just going to play cards." She starts out ammused but by the end she's completely serious.
"Is there anything any of you'd like to tell me before you start, or that you feel you need to know?"
Vera giggles, "I am not going to get any further undressed, besides its not like I am wearing much. It was just a random thought. Anyways, I am going to focus on playing cards. Let's keep the game nice and clean then, we starts off with 50 nuyen and once the chips run out, you are out of the game. AR chips work for everyone?"
Vera deals out AR chips worth 50 nuyen for everyone but Dartha.
Vera disappears for a moment and comes back from the galley with two glasses and offers to pour Hodder and Dexter shots.
Vera deals out AR chips worth 50 nuyen for everyone but Dartha.
Vera disappears for a moment and comes back from the galley with two glasses and offers to pour Hodder and Dexter shots.
I nod once as I grab the glass.
“Much appreciated.” It burns a bit as it goes down. Not the first time I had fire in my lungs. Probably won't be the last.
“So, kid, you got yourself a name or what?”
“Much appreciated.” It burns a bit as it goes down. Not the first time I had fire in my lungs. Probably won't be the last.
“So, kid, you got yourself a name or what?”
Vera grins and swallows her shot before filling both glasses again "Yeah, my name is Vera. It's what my parents named me, so I decided to keep with that. My speciality when not pissing people off is medicine, I might even have a degree in some archive somewhere."
Vera tosses in some AR chips, betting a bit wild.
"Should I call you Mr Pope or do you have a first name, I can use?"
Vera tosses in some AR chips, betting a bit wild.
"Should I call you Mr Pope or do you have a first name, I can use?"
"Toots, you can call me whatever you like".
I throw in some chips.
"Degree? You might want to hang unto that. Could be useful in a snow storm. Start a fire with it, or something."
I throw in some chips.
"Degree? You might want to hang unto that. Could be useful in a snow storm. Start a fire with it, or something."
I simply listen to the conversation for now, throwing in a couple chips more than the others. I think this is a good hand... I guess I'll find out fairly soon. Glad we aren't using money or clothing, makes life easier. Maybe I can get back to my commlink at some point. Though, maybe I'll figure out why he rubbed me the wrong way when we first met... or why I felt like he did at least.
Vera laughs, "I think I would need something a bit more to start a fire. Personally I find nothing wrong with a bit of gasoline. Anyways, the last snow storm I was in was in the Yukatan, two weeks of being buttoned up in a tent that wanted to slide off the cliff-face with every blast of wind was not fun."
"I think I'll call you Pope then. Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum! Habemus Papam! or something like that."
Vera clinks her glass against Pope's and drinks it dry. She coughs a bit wincing.
Vera throws some chips into the pot. "Another?"
"I think I'll call you Pope then. Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum! Habemus Papam! or something like that."
Vera clinks her glass against Pope's and drinks it dry. She coughs a bit wincing.
Vera throws some chips into the pot. "Another?"
Dartha closely watches the interplay between the rest of the team and Ms. Johnson in the back. She discretely calls up her Augmented Reality interface in her contacts and begins subtly constructing a text message to her employer.
Jane,
I don't wish to disrupt the relaxation ritual of the others and they seem reticent to volunteer the information I was thinking would be most helpful in formulating initial plans for once we arrive in Lagos. As I understand, we are primarily to provide your security as you pursue your objectives as opposed to us operating primarily on our own. I know what it is that I can do and essentially what you need from me, but I'm unsure as to the others. Dexter has all the markings of a long service military man, but I'm not sure as to his specific experience or talents. Hodder would seem to be Awakened, but to what extent I do not know and as to any secondary mundane abilities, I'm sadly ignorant. Ms. Yamamoto seems to have an unnatural relationship with her rifle and was calmed by the ritual of its assembly, so it would seem she is our long gun; Does she have other talents I should be aware of? Vera seems to be something of a socialite and it sounds as if she was in charge of our medical supplies; Is she also a medical professional of some sort? And what can I expect of our sixth member who will be joining us in Cairo?
I would like to be able to know in what areas I am not going to need to provide assistance or coverage to my fellow team members, as well as areas where they may offer special support. Finally, if I am to provide for your magical security, it would be helpful to know what abilities, if any, you posses in terms of defending yourself.
Is there anything else I should be aware of to ensure my ability to perform my duties? I am currently reading all available information I could acquire on our destination and the people there prior to our hasty departure.
Jane,
I don't wish to disrupt the relaxation ritual of the others and they seem reticent to volunteer the information I was thinking would be most helpful in formulating initial plans for once we arrive in Lagos. As I understand, we are primarily to provide your security as you pursue your objectives as opposed to us operating primarily on our own. I know what it is that I can do and essentially what you need from me, but I'm unsure as to the others. Dexter has all the markings of a long service military man, but I'm not sure as to his specific experience or talents. Hodder would seem to be Awakened, but to what extent I do not know and as to any secondary mundane abilities, I'm sadly ignorant. Ms. Yamamoto seems to have an unnatural relationship with her rifle and was calmed by the ritual of its assembly, so it would seem she is our long gun; Does she have other talents I should be aware of? Vera seems to be something of a socialite and it sounds as if she was in charge of our medical supplies; Is she also a medical professional of some sort? And what can I expect of our sixth member who will be joining us in Cairo?
I would like to be able to know in what areas I am not going to need to provide assistance or coverage to my fellow team members, as well as areas where they may offer special support. Finally, if I am to provide for your magical security, it would be helpful to know what abilities, if any, you posses in terms of defending yourself.
Is there anything else I should be aware of to ensure my ability to perform my duties? I am currently reading all available information I could acquire on our destination and the people there prior to our hasty departure.
Hodder throws his hand in in disgust. This game never was his forte. Oh, well, a few nuyen out is no problem. However, these sharks will take him for a lot more if he isn't careful. His newfound wisdom takes over, and he cuts his losses.
"Sorry folks, but I seem to be a little tired and not up to this ... play. Carry on without me."
He stands up and looks out a window to see the first gi\limmer of sunshine over the horizon, now that they are above the clouds. The shimmering blue fire fades from his eyes. "Oh yeah. Forgot about flying high to meet the dawn."
He looks around and sees Jane staring off into space, as if reading something. He wanders over and sits with her. "This is strange. I sit with a beautiful woman and I feel as if I have come somewhere safe."
He waits till she acknowledges his presence and asks, "When do you plan to brief us? If you are going to wait for the 'card' game to finish, I could use a nap. I was up all night."
"Sorry folks, but I seem to be a little tired and not up to this ... play. Carry on without me."
He stands up and looks out a window to see the first gi\limmer of sunshine over the horizon, now that they are above the clouds. The shimmering blue fire fades from his eyes. "Oh yeah. Forgot about flying high to meet the dawn."
He looks around and sees Jane staring off into space, as if reading something. He wanders over and sits with her. "This is strange. I sit with a beautiful woman and I feel as if I have come somewhere safe."
He waits till she acknowledges his presence and asks, "When do you plan to brief us? If you are going to wait for the 'card' game to finish, I could use a nap. I was up all night."
Dartha watches as Hodder bows out of the card game and makes his way over to Ms. Johnson. She hears him ask about a full briefing and feels a sense of relief that she's apparently not the only person who either missed an important memo or cares about mission specifics once they land in Lagos.
"Oh, good. At least one member of this group -besides me- has something useful between their ears. I guess that moves him up another notch on my priority list; A smart ally is a lot more valuable than a dumb follower."
"Oh, good. At least one member of this group -besides me- has something useful between their ears. I guess that moves him up another notch on my priority list; A smart ally is a lot more valuable than a dumb follower."
Ms. Johnson looks up from the current new article she is reading on her AR display. She receives an incoming text from Dartha and then takes a moment to respond.
<<Text @Dartha. Your assessment on each individual is correct. They each have their areas of expertise and knowledge on how to survive in the Shadow world. As for your role, I am relying on your arcane ability to help protect us from awakened threats. From what I have heard, your socerecy ability is very high, thus if we are to encounter any type of spirits, mundane, or other magic users, your talents will be more then useful. I also know that you have an ability to socialize and pursade others with your ablities, I ask that you leave the negotionations to Mr. Hodder and Vera. Mr. Hodder is a hunter of antiquities, and Vera has knowledge and contacts of the culture of Lagos. You are our ace in the hole in terms of being a social liason.
As for my abilities, I am able to defend myself when push comes to shove, but I am no where near as fielded in the areas of combat as the majority of our other team members.
The last team member who will be joining us in Cairo is our electronics expert. He is also a hacker.">>Hodder comes to sit beside her. She looks at him, and notices the man's charisma and calming influence. She feels relaxed around him. She responds to his question.
"I have briefed you on what I know. Like yourself, I am foreign to the city of Lagos. I do have a few contacts in the city who will assist us with setting up shop, but they are contacts provided to me through a third party. Our first priority will be finding lodgeing, a safe house, and adequate transportation. From there our search for Lockwood shall begin.
I suggest you do get some rest Mr. Hodder. It is a ten hour flight from here to Cairo. "
Digits patches into everyone's commlink. The flight is about to take off. The airplane rumbles, before accelerating. From there it's the plane inclines towards the sky. It feels like a mini-rollar coaster ride.
<<Text @Dartha. Your assessment on each individual is correct. They each have their areas of expertise and knowledge on how to survive in the Shadow world. As for your role, I am relying on your arcane ability to help protect us from awakened threats. From what I have heard, your socerecy ability is very high, thus if we are to encounter any type of spirits, mundane, or other magic users, your talents will be more then useful. I also know that you have an ability to socialize and pursade others with your ablities, I ask that you leave the negotionations to Mr. Hodder and Vera. Mr. Hodder is a hunter of antiquities, and Vera has knowledge and contacts of the culture of Lagos. You are our ace in the hole in terms of being a social liason.
As for my abilities, I am able to defend myself when push comes to shove, but I am no where near as fielded in the areas of combat as the majority of our other team members.
The last team member who will be joining us in Cairo is our electronics expert. He is also a hacker.">>Hodder comes to sit beside her. She looks at him, and notices the man's charisma and calming influence. She feels relaxed around him. She responds to his question.
"I have briefed you on what I know. Like yourself, I am foreign to the city of Lagos. I do have a few contacts in the city who will assist us with setting up shop, but they are contacts provided to me through a third party. Our first priority will be finding lodgeing, a safe house, and adequate transportation. From there our search for Lockwood shall begin.
I suggest you do get some rest Mr. Hodder. It is a ten hour flight from here to Cairo. "
Digits patches into everyone's commlink. The flight is about to take off. The airplane rumbles, before accelerating. From there it's the plane inclines towards the sky. It feels like a mini-rollar coaster ride.
Hodder smiles at Jane. "Thank you. I will get some rest, soon. There is however, one important piece of information on which you haven't briefed us, yet. Could you please tell me what you can about the object we plan to retrieve? The more we know, the more likely we are to recognize it and to treat it appropriately."
"Well, this should be interesting. I wonder if she'll bother to give us any useful information. I need to take Hodder aside at some point and find out what it is that he 'specializes' in."
Datha listens intently for Ms. Johnson's reply.
Datha listens intently for Ms. Johnson's reply.
Hodder can feel several pairs of eyes and ears behind him, attending to what comes next.
Ms. Johnson studies Hodder.
"Very well. But the information I am disclosing to your right now shall be the last questions I receive about the object in question."
Jane cues up her commlink. A circular projector extracts from the roof of the plane. It projects a golden light the rays of which form a floating map. Yes imagine an old treasure map.
[Similiar. Not an exact replica of what you see.]
A document filters into everyone's commlinks. The text information available for everyone to read. In addition an automated voice reads the information to each individual as well.
<<Voice@Hodder, Hawkeye, Vera, Pope, and Dartha.
-The Piri Reis Map
The artifact known as today as the Piri Reis map boasts a long troubled history, shrouded in mystery and controversy. Denounced as a sophisticated hoax and written off as an oddity, it is believed that the map hides a millennial secret that lay dormant until the Awakening.
Known History
In 1513, Piri Reis, a high-ranking officer in the Imperial Turkish navy, allegedly drew a mysterious mapa mundi based on a collection of older maps, including some that reportedly had survived the destruction of the Great Library of Alexandria. Inexplicably this map depicted the coastlines of the Americas, as well as an accurate portrayal of the Antarctic coastline, devoid of ice-surprising, indeed, since Antarctica wouldn't be discovered until nearly three centuries later. Even more mysterious, researches claim the last time the Antarctic coast was free from ice was likely 4,000 BC. Cartographers puzzled over the apparent use of spherical trigonometry, a technology what wouldn't be available for three hundred more years. While Piri Reis claimed he drew the map from other, older maps, cartographers were bemused by the fact that it appeared to be based off maps that not only acknowledged the Earth was round, but had calculated its circumference within fifty miles of the true measure. For centuries, the map remained an oddity, dismissed by researchers and cartographers as one of the many items that just didn't fit with their understanding of history...
For years, the map remained under lock and key at hte Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, where it was discovered in 1929. It remained there until the turmoil of the Eurowars swept through Turkey. Towards the end of the war, in 2034, the European forces seized Istanbul from the disintergrating Alliance for Allah. In the destruction and chaos that accompanied one of the most violent clashes in the Eurowars, many of the nation's most valuable treasures were lost---among them, the Piri Reis map."
The automated voice ends abruptly. The image unnaturally disconnects like someone had shut off a device.
"No more questions about the map until we get to Lagos."
"Very well. But the information I am disclosing to your right now shall be the last questions I receive about the object in question."
Jane cues up her commlink. A circular projector extracts from the roof of the plane. It projects a golden light the rays of which form a floating map. Yes imagine an old treasure map.
[Similiar. Not an exact replica of what you see.]
A document filters into everyone's commlinks. The text information available for everyone to read. In addition an automated voice reads the information to each individual as well.
<<Voice@Hodder, Hawkeye, Vera, Pope, and Dartha.
-The Piri Reis Map
The artifact known as today as the Piri Reis map boasts a long troubled history, shrouded in mystery and controversy. Denounced as a sophisticated hoax and written off as an oddity, it is believed that the map hides a millennial secret that lay dormant until the Awakening.
Known History
In 1513, Piri Reis, a high-ranking officer in the Imperial Turkish navy, allegedly drew a mysterious mapa mundi based on a collection of older maps, including some that reportedly had survived the destruction of the Great Library of Alexandria. Inexplicably this map depicted the coastlines of the Americas, as well as an accurate portrayal of the Antarctic coastline, devoid of ice-surprising, indeed, since Antarctica wouldn't be discovered until nearly three centuries later. Even more mysterious, researches claim the last time the Antarctic coast was free from ice was likely 4,000 BC. Cartographers puzzled over the apparent use of spherical trigonometry, a technology what wouldn't be available for three hundred more years. While Piri Reis claimed he drew the map from other, older maps, cartographers were bemused by the fact that it appeared to be based off maps that not only acknowledged the Earth was round, but had calculated its circumference within fifty miles of the true measure. For centuries, the map remained an oddity, dismissed by researchers and cartographers as one of the many items that just didn't fit with their understanding of history...
For years, the map remained under lock and key at hte Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, where it was discovered in 1929. It remained there until the turmoil of the Eurowars swept through Turkey. Towards the end of the war, in 2034, the European forces seized Istanbul from the disintergrating Alliance for Allah. In the destruction and chaos that accompanied one of the most violent clashes in the Eurowars, many of the nation's most valuable treasures were lost---among them, the Piri Reis map."
The automated voice ends abruptly. The image unnaturally disconnects like someone had shut off a device.
"No more questions about the map until we get to Lagos."
In the air, on the way to Cairo
Hodder digests the information about the map. It is something he has reads about but considered to be a prosaic artifact of the 16th century. If it is under such scrutiny and hunted by so many, there must be more to it. he would have to investigate it via the matrix himself.
"Thanks, Jane. I'll wait till we get to Lagos and get settled before I broach the subject again." He wanders over to the card game. "I'm turning in. later, I'll be doing a bit of spirit work. Don't mind the funny stuff, it's just ritual."
Once the banter dies down, Hodder moves to a quiet (?quieter?) section of the plane and settles in. Ten hours, give or take till Cairo. Two hours for binding a F2 spirit. He sets his commlink to wake him in five hours. That should have him ready for the landing.
After five hours of restful sleep, Hodder is woken by his commlink. He rises, visits the facilities, and returns to his seat. There he spreads out a small cloth of Indian silk on the drop-down tray and lights a small candle in a glass cylinder. He lays out a series of small items in a semi-circle around the candle.
Hodder puts his binding ritual materials away. He looks out the window and realizes they have been flying east long enough to run into the next dawn. "Excellent." he considers what is to come this day: searching for lodgings and transportation. Before that, though, they will need to land safely. He decides to summon a Spirit of Water, with the power to control weather.
Hodder digests the information about the map. It is something he has reads about but considered to be a prosaic artifact of the 16th century. If it is under such scrutiny and hunted by so many, there must be more to it. he would have to investigate it via the matrix himself.
"Thanks, Jane. I'll wait till we get to Lagos and get settled before I broach the subject again." He wanders over to the card game. "I'm turning in. later, I'll be doing a bit of spirit work. Don't mind the funny stuff, it's just ritual."
Once the banter dies down, Hodder moves to a quiet (?quieter?) section of the plane and settles in. Ten hours, give or take till Cairo. Two hours for binding a F2 spirit. He sets his commlink to wake him in five hours. That should have him ready for the landing.
After five hours of restful sleep, Hodder is woken by his commlink. He rises, visits the facilities, and returns to his seat. There he spreads out a small cloth of Indian silk on the drop-down tray and lights a small candle in a glass cylinder. He lays out a series of small items in a semi-circle around the candle.
[ Spoiler ]
Hodder puts his binding ritual materials away. He looks out the window and realizes they have been flying east long enough to run into the next dawn. "Excellent." he considers what is to come this day: searching for lodgings and transportation. Before that, though, they will need to land safely. He decides to summon a Spirit of Water, with the power to control weather.
[ Spoiler ]
As it appears that no more information is going to be forthcoming from anybody prior to arrival in Cairo, Dartha settles down to continuing to read her general information on Lagos which she picked up prior to arriving at the airfield.
As she continued to read, she thought to herself "Oh, drek. What a genuine shithole. Well, I'm not along on this little jaunt to have fun, but at least it should be interesting. A significant portion of the city is under Sharia? Well, that should be interesting if we wind up having to go there, given that we have four women, none of us particularly modest by nature. I'll have to bring that up if we ever have a pre-mission group-briefing. Water is going to be an issue, though thankfully I need a lot less than most people. I really hope they can get it together enough to coordinate things - Lagos doesn't seem to be the kind of place to be flying by the seat of your pants. I wonder if we're going to have a local guide we can trust at all? Maybe Ms. J will have that one covered. I hope so. I need to start looking at options to get the hell out myself if this circus all comes apart."
As she continued to read, she thought to herself "Oh, drek. What a genuine shithole. Well, I'm not along on this little jaunt to have fun, but at least it should be interesting. A significant portion of the city is under Sharia? Well, that should be interesting if we wind up having to go there, given that we have four women, none of us particularly modest by nature. I'll have to bring that up if we ever have a pre-mission group-briefing. Water is going to be an issue, though thankfully I need a lot less than most people. I really hope they can get it together enough to coordinate things - Lagos doesn't seem to be the kind of place to be flying by the seat of your pants. I wonder if we're going to have a local guide we can trust at all? Maybe Ms. J will have that one covered. I hope so. I need to start looking at options to get the hell out myself if this circus all comes apart."
In the air, on the way to Cairo
A few moments after Hodder finishes with the disastrous last summoning, he rises stiffly from his chair and walks back to the group. Any who are awake see that he is in pretty bad shape. As well, his skin seems ashen, and his eyes steely grey, not his original brown. Alarmed queries are answered, "I'll be alright. A summoning went bad. It happens, though this is the first time for me on a mission. For a couple of days I will have to concentrate to keep the pain from affecting me, and rest when possible, that's all. Well, and the small fact that I am easier to kill, now. It's the down side of the cool business of magic."
A few moments after Hodder finishes with the disastrous last summoning, he rises stiffly from his chair and walks back to the group. Any who are awake see that he is in pretty bad shape. As well, his skin seems ashen, and his eyes steely grey, not his original brown. Alarmed queries are answered, "I'll be alright. A summoning went bad. It happens, though this is the first time for me on a mission. For a couple of days I will have to concentrate to keep the pain from affecting me, and rest when possible, that's all. Well, and the small fact that I am easier to kill, now. It's the down side of the cool business of magic."
Dartha looks up, hearing Hodder’s words, and takes note of his condition.
“Damn, that’s not good. I don’t even know him yet, but he’s my only Awakened backup; I don’t want him wandering amongst the mundanes in Lagos looking like that – can’t have them thinking we’re weakened. Well, maybe it will get me an in with him down the line. Hell, I could probably call it a marker if things go well.”
She subtly composes a quick text message to the dwarf:
>>@Hodder: You look like drek. I don’t want people thinking you’re weak when we land in Lagos; That place eats the weak. Can I help?<<
“Damn, that’s not good. I don’t even know him yet, but he’s my only Awakened backup; I don’t want him wandering amongst the mundanes in Lagos looking like that – can’t have them thinking we’re weakened. Well, maybe it will get me an in with him down the line. Hell, I could probably call it a marker if things go well.”
She subtly composes a quick text message to the dwarf:
>>@Hodder: You look like drek. I don’t want people thinking you’re weak when we land in Lagos; That place eats the weak. Can I help?<<
QUOTE (Kerenshara @ Oct 14 2009, 08:38 PM) 
Dartha looks up, hearing Hodder's words, and takes note of his condition.
"Damn, that's not good. I don't even know him yet, but he's my only Awakened backup; I don't want him wandering amongst the mundanes in Lagos looking like that – can't have them thinking we're weakened. Well, maybe it will get me an in with him down the line. Hell, I could probably call it a marker if things go well."
She subtly composes a quick text message to the dwarf:
>>@Hodder: You look like drek. I don't want people thinking you're weak when we land in Lagos; That place eats the weak. Can I help?<<
"Damn, that's not good. I don't even know him yet, but he's my only Awakened backup; I don't want him wandering amongst the mundanes in Lagos looking like that – can't have them thinking we're weakened. Well, maybe it will get me an in with him down the line. Hell, I could probably call it a marker if things go well."
She subtly composes a quick text message to the dwarf:
>>@Hodder: You look like drek. I don't want people thinking you're weak when we land in Lagos; That place eats the weak. Can I help?<<
Hodder assumes this comes from the only other magician on the team. >>@Dartha: Thanks, but it is Drain damage, and there's nothing you can do to help. It is a crying shame this happened now. It really was a perfect storm of conditions.<<
>>@Hodder: I figured as much, but you'll heal faster if you're just resting and not getting up and down for things and if somebody makes sure you stay comfortable and does all that "good mom" stuff. I thought I would offer, since it's not going to take away from what I'm doing, and I don't want you down as badly as you look when we hit the ground running.<<
>>@Dartha: With a little concentration, I can overcome the pain so it doesn't interfere with my performance. The problem is that that concentration cannot be used to overcome other distractions, then. It's kind of you to offer your help. Maybe a cup of tea in a while would be good. Thanks.<<
>>@Hodder: Now that, I can do. I'm honestly a lot less worried about your ability to perform than your ability to LOOK like you can perform. Have a seat and relax.<<
Dartha gets up and makes her way to the galley where she makes a cup of tea and wets down a towel and grabs a small foil pack out of the medical kit. Then she makes her way to where Hodder has seated himself and hands him the cool moist towel and the foil packet. Then she passes over the cup of tea. She lets one corner of her mouth quirk upward in a wry smile as she watches him until he opens the little pack and takes the two mild (and Awakened safe) analgesic tablets and washes them down. Then her smile broadens and she give him a little wink before turning and returning to her seat where she resumes her study on the shithole known as Lagos.
Dartha gets up and makes her way to the galley where she makes a cup of tea and wets down a towel and grabs a small foil pack out of the medical kit. Then she makes her way to where Hodder has seated himself and hands him the cool moist towel and the foil packet. Then she passes over the cup of tea. She lets one corner of her mouth quirk upward in a wry smile as she watches him until he opens the little pack and takes the two mild (and Awakened safe) analgesic tablets and washes them down. Then her smile broadens and she give him a little wink before turning and returning to her seat where she resumes her study on the shithole known as Lagos.
Hodder sips the tea and appreciates the contrast between the hot tea and the cold compress. Just the thing to take his mind of the embarrassment. He can concentrate to overcome the pain, but nothing helps the feeling he has made a bad impression on the team. He will have to work doubly hard to overcome this.
The kid is a bit of a conundrum. She seems nice, which is odd in itself in this business, but there is an undertone of something he can't fathom, not even in astral. Well, it would be impolite to reply to kindness with anything but more of the same.
"Thanks, Dartha, This is kind of you. It's good to have someone perceptive on the team. I hope I don't have to do the same for you sometime." He grins. "Now, what did that wink mean? Women. I wil never understand them in a hundred years."
The kid is a bit of a conundrum. She seems nice, which is odd in itself in this business, but there is an undertone of something he can't fathom, not even in astral. Well, it would be impolite to reply to kindness with anything but more of the same.
"Thanks, Dartha, This is kind of you. It's good to have someone perceptive on the team. I hope I don't have to do the same for you sometime." He grins. "Now, what did that wink mean? Women. I wil never understand them in a hundred years."
Vera almost puts away the cards before seeing the interplay between Darla and Hodder. She knew that was very little she could do to him. Magical drain was not something she had much experience with. She continued to lose to Hawkeye and Dexter, all the time getting slightly more conspiciously drunk.
"Pope, I think. Its best that I head off for some sleep. We will be landing in a couple of hours and I should look my best. If you need me, I'll be right over there." She pointed at the two vacant seats she had previously occupied. She set her sleep regulator and before she knew it she was sound asleep.
"Pope, I think. Its best that I head off for some sleep. We will be landing in a couple of hours and I should look my best. If you need me, I'll be right over there." She pointed at the two vacant seats she had previously occupied. She set her sleep regulator and before she knew it she was sound asleep.
Monday, April 9th, 2072. 0550 Hours. Cairo Egypt
Cairo International Airport.
The rest of the flight and to Cairo was uneventful. From the airplane, the crew could see Cairo as a teaming metroplex which had developed over the past sixty years. The city had expanded it's range of urban development to the a large area encompassing the northern shores of the Mediterranean sea. There had also been great expansion along the Gulf of the Suez. The shores of the entire channel was filled with structures and buildings which traveled all the way to the mouth of the Red Sea. There were arcologies built around the shores of the Suez Canal.
The city itself was a blinking of glowing lights with many large pyramid shape corporate buildings which raised high in the sky.
[Shot of Cairo]
[Bird's Eye View of the airport]
[Pictures of the main hanger for Cairo International.]
The flight had taken roughly ten hours. But because of the time zone changes, the crew had lost another 15. The time was 0550 hours. The sun was just beginning to rise in the distance, dawn was approaching. The plane touched down on a private airport in Cairo. Cairo international was known for it's beauty and luxury. Even in 2072 it is one of the busiest airports in the world, and one of the busiest in the area formerly known as the Middle East and Northern Africa.
The airplane docked on a circular airfield which lead connected with the private runway. [Picture a large culdesac.]
[Image of Cairo Runway and Docking Area.]
The area was surrounded by one warehouse like private hanger as well as two large flight towers.
[Airport Hangar]
[Model of the two Flight Towers]
On the runway were two Hermes stepvans with two drivers and one Troll awaiting the arrival of the airport. There was also an Ork present. The plane comes to a stop as Digits the Dwarf pilot announces the arrival and grants the team the "Okay" to move about in the cabin and exit the plane. Jane turns to all of you.
"We'll be spending about an hour here. The vans contain a few items which were ordered by Vera and myself. There should be a medical kit with awakened medicine which should help Hodder recover from his current state. Our sixth and final team member is also on the runway."
Jane leaves the airplane and begins to walk down the movable staircase/ladder that was not parked outside of the jets doorway.
Cairo International Airport.
The rest of the flight and to Cairo was uneventful. From the airplane, the crew could see Cairo as a teaming metroplex which had developed over the past sixty years. The city had expanded it's range of urban development to the a large area encompassing the northern shores of the Mediterranean sea. There had also been great expansion along the Gulf of the Suez. The shores of the entire channel was filled with structures and buildings which traveled all the way to the mouth of the Red Sea. There were arcologies built around the shores of the Suez Canal.
The city itself was a blinking of glowing lights with many large pyramid shape corporate buildings which raised high in the sky.
[Shot of Cairo]
[Bird's Eye View of the airport]
[Pictures of the main hanger for Cairo International.]
The flight had taken roughly ten hours. But because of the time zone changes, the crew had lost another 15. The time was 0550 hours. The sun was just beginning to rise in the distance, dawn was approaching. The plane touched down on a private airport in Cairo. Cairo international was known for it's beauty and luxury. Even in 2072 it is one of the busiest airports in the world, and one of the busiest in the area formerly known as the Middle East and Northern Africa.
The airplane docked on a circular airfield which lead connected with the private runway. [Picture a large culdesac.]
[Image of Cairo Runway and Docking Area.]
The area was surrounded by one warehouse like private hanger as well as two large flight towers.
[Airport Hangar]
[Model of the two Flight Towers]
On the runway were two Hermes stepvans with two drivers and one Troll awaiting the arrival of the airport. There was also an Ork present. The plane comes to a stop as Digits the Dwarf pilot announces the arrival and grants the team the "Okay" to move about in the cabin and exit the plane. Jane turns to all of you.
"We'll be spending about an hour here. The vans contain a few items which were ordered by Vera and myself. There should be a medical kit with awakened medicine which should help Hodder recover from his current state. Our sixth and final team member is also on the runway."
Jane leaves the airplane and begins to walk down the movable staircase/ladder that was not parked outside of the jets doorway.
Hodder pulls himself out of his chair and stretches. He walks slowly over to the doorway and steps outside into the fresh (!) air of the Cairo airport. He greets the sunlight with mixed feelings: joy at the sensation, frustration at the damage he dealt himself in the summoning gone awry. "Maybe I depend just a little too much on the elohim. Maybe I can make a few judgment calls when on a job, and not keep myself at full power. Just a thought, Hodder my boy."
Hodder looks around from the top of the ladder, scanning the area for useful information, possible danger.
"Wow! The air sure looks clear today. I wonder if it is always like this in Cairo? Way better than Seattle if it is!"
Hodder looks around from the top of the ladder, scanning the area for useful information, possible danger.
[ Spoiler ]
"Wow! The air sure looks clear today. I wonder if it is always like this in Cairo? Way better than Seattle if it is!"
Dartha watches as Hodder makes his way off the plane after Jane. She keeps a wary eye on the rest of the plane's passengers as they deplane and decides a little constructive paranoia's the better part of valor. Reaching out with her magic sense, Dartha detects no abmormalities in the local background count in her immediate vicinity. She focuses and concentrates for a few moments, gathering her Awakened strength, and gestures as she imposes her will on the energy around her.
Sensing nobody with hostile intent towards her within 250 meters, Dartha makes her way to where she stowed one of her bags in the cabin closet and takes it with her back to the small but efficient onboard shower. Leaving the water turned off, she changes out of one set of hunting gear and into another. The black leather, lace and silk are replaced with practical and durable fabrics. The corset stays on under the rest of the outfit for now, awaiting transformation. The Globetrotter Khakis fit more loosely that she'd like but they are festooned with pockets and well ventilated while designed specifically to help keep out insects and vermin. She pulls on a pair of highly practical combat boots, and frowns at the complete lack of aesthetics... and height. "I'm not quite ready to concede that much height to her just yet, and we're not in a serious danger zone just yet, either. Ok, I can put them back later before we arrive." On top of that ensemble goes her long flowing black robes with the deep hood and broad sleeves. Despite their appearance, being constructed from the latest in smart fabrics, the robes actually remain quite comfortable in both high and low temperatures and flow easily with her movements, seeming much heavier and more opaque than the material actually is.
Once again imposing her will on the mana around her and sweeping her hand broadly from the crown of her head and downwards, the black robes transform into a very light sand color, lighter than the underlying khaki of the fatigues. The fatigues themselves adjust minutely to better fit her frame while the corset changes back to it's normal form as Form Fitting Body Armor, precisely tailored and comfortable. The boots become much more feminine, and the heels narrow and elongate, giving her those important extra centimeters of social confidence; They are still of both a height and width she can easily run in them, but now they proclaim her feminine grace in a rich saddle brown.
Dartha looks down at herself and permits herself a smug and appreciative smile. She packs her discarded items carefully into the carry-on and stows it back in the closet where she removed it from. She then drops her comlink in one of her copious pockets, loads the bits of her desert survival gear into some of the others and straps on her belt with the GPS unit and medkit. Taking a moment to properly still her facial features, she steps off the plane into the pre-dawn day.
[ Spoiler ]
Sensing nobody with hostile intent towards her within 250 meters, Dartha makes her way to where she stowed one of her bags in the cabin closet and takes it with her back to the small but efficient onboard shower. Leaving the water turned off, she changes out of one set of hunting gear and into another. The black leather, lace and silk are replaced with practical and durable fabrics. The corset stays on under the rest of the outfit for now, awaiting transformation. The Globetrotter Khakis fit more loosely that she'd like but they are festooned with pockets and well ventilated while designed specifically to help keep out insects and vermin. She pulls on a pair of highly practical combat boots, and frowns at the complete lack of aesthetics... and height. "I'm not quite ready to concede that much height to her just yet, and we're not in a serious danger zone just yet, either. Ok, I can put them back later before we arrive." On top of that ensemble goes her long flowing black robes with the deep hood and broad sleeves. Despite their appearance, being constructed from the latest in smart fabrics, the robes actually remain quite comfortable in both high and low temperatures and flow easily with her movements, seeming much heavier and more opaque than the material actually is.
[ Spoiler ]
Once again imposing her will on the mana around her and sweeping her hand broadly from the crown of her head and downwards, the black robes transform into a very light sand color, lighter than the underlying khaki of the fatigues. The fatigues themselves adjust minutely to better fit her frame while the corset changes back to it's normal form as Form Fitting Body Armor, precisely tailored and comfortable. The boots become much more feminine, and the heels narrow and elongate, giving her those important extra centimeters of social confidence; They are still of both a height and width she can easily run in them, but now they proclaim her feminine grace in a rich saddle brown.
Dartha looks down at herself and permits herself a smug and appreciative smile. She packs her discarded items carefully into the carry-on and stows it back in the closet where she removed it from. She then drops her comlink in one of her copious pockets, loads the bits of her desert survival gear into some of the others and straps on her belt with the GPS unit and medkit. Taking a moment to properly still her facial features, she steps off the plane into the pre-dawn day.
[ Spoiler ]
Vera leaves the plane looking around her surroundings. The heat is not much at 5 am, still feeling chilly, but the sun is coming out, burning up any cold quickly. It would be the usual burning day in Cairo today.
She gleefully takes the one larger hold-all and the smaller bag held by the rather brusque ork. She zipped it open coughing at the large amount of dust that was disinterred from it.
She gave the top layer a good shake, revealing further dust. Once finished she brought them back inside. Since the bathroom in the plane was in use, she simply changed in the plane, giving anyone who was around an eye full.
In about ten minutes, she had struggled into her PPC outfit and changed into a pair of smart environment pants and a worn rough v cut black shirt that said "I fucked Jetblack and all I got was this lousy t-shirt."
She replaced her heels with more sensible running shoes. She looked cute and noticable if nothing else than looking like a throwback to a four year old fashion craze.
She put on a pair of pilots glasses and grabbed a small tote bag with a large Médecins Sans Frontières patch and old company ID card with a faded and mostly corrupted AR display indicating "Maria Vasquez, Aztechnology Bioweapons Division". She went out of the plane and smoked an old cheroot on the tar-mac.
Finally she picked out the medkit and looked over Hodder on the tar-mac. "I recommend that if you do any magic you do it on the ground. The higher you fly, the more likely it is that you will tire yourself out, as you are not in as close proximity to mother earth as before. Pull down your pants please."
She gives Hodder jab with the hypospray. "That's your shots taken care of. Even so, I don't recommend any swimming, not just because of cramps, but because this does not protect you against the numerous diseases and parasites that we do know about in Lagos."
[ Spoiler ]
She gleefully takes the one larger hold-all and the smaller bag held by the rather brusque ork. She zipped it open coughing at the large amount of dust that was disinterred from it.
She gave the top layer a good shake, revealing further dust. Once finished she brought them back inside. Since the bathroom in the plane was in use, she simply changed in the plane, giving anyone who was around an eye full.
In about ten minutes, she had struggled into her PPC outfit and changed into a pair of smart environment pants and a worn rough v cut black shirt that said "I fucked Jetblack and all I got was this lousy t-shirt."
She replaced her heels with more sensible running shoes. She looked cute and noticable if nothing else than looking like a throwback to a four year old fashion craze.
She put on a pair of pilots glasses and grabbed a small tote bag with a large Médecins Sans Frontières patch and old company ID card with a faded and mostly corrupted AR display indicating "Maria Vasquez, Aztechnology Bioweapons Division". She went out of the plane and smoked an old cheroot on the tar-mac.
Finally she picked out the medkit and looked over Hodder on the tar-mac. "I recommend that if you do any magic you do it on the ground. The higher you fly, the more likely it is that you will tire yourself out, as you are not in as close proximity to mother earth as before. Pull down your pants please."
She gives Hodder jab with the hypospray. "That's your shots taken care of. Even so, I don't recommend any swimming, not just because of cramps, but because this does not protect you against the numerous diseases and parasites that we do know about in Lagos."
When the plan starts to bank, lining up the runway, everyone begins to wake and stirr themselves in action. I slip my jacket back on, my cyberhand pulling the heavy revolver out from its holster. The motion is smooth, muscle memory working by itself as the cylinder makes an audible click. It swings out, dropping the unfired frangible shells into my hand. I shove them inside my jacket's pocket, grabbing a few explosive core .44 magnum and swapping them out. The wheels are barely down on the tarmac that I'm up from my seat and moving to the aft exit door. The pilot squawks in that we can get out of our seats... but fuck that, I'm already by the door. Sure, it's a scheduel stop. Sure, those people on the ground are probably Miss J's. But I haven't gotten this old by taking chances. Ever. My shooting hand is still inside my jacket, wraped around my weapon. I ain't worried this is already the end of the line for us, but, 'sfar as I'm concerned, my job's to be cautious. So I am. I ain't got no clue how well these guys can handle themselves in a fight... so until I know they can look after themselves, I'm gonna have to play babysitter. When I'm finally sure the ground crew ain't here to kill us, I step aside to let Miss J and Hodder out. The little guy looks a bit less like shit than before. Hope the cat nap did him some good, cause I need his eyes out there. I follow them out. I ain't ever been to Cairo, but that don't matter a whole lot. With age, I've come to the conclusion that every single place you go is exactly the same. Sure, the flavor of the month ain't the same everywhere, but its pretty fuckin' close if you ask me. In the jungle, people stab you in the face. In the 'plexe, they stab you in the back of the head. Thats the only real difference.
For a second, I'm thinking about going round the plane and getting my rifle out. I feel real fuckin naked with nothing but a .44 canon. Thats one of the thing I hate about the “unofficial” side of the private sector; you gotta be subtle and sneaky. It ain't good to walk around showing off firepower. Not like when you're wearing a uniform. I fucking hate having to pass for a civilian.
Everyone seems to kick into gear; stretching, grabbing stuff left and right. Hodder looks around like he's checking out for the local massage parlour. Vera goes back inside, and Dartha locks herself in the bathroom. So be it. I get busy by staying at the bottom the plane's stairs, arms crossed, and my best “fuck you” face. From here, I can keep half an eye on almost everyone. I ain't doing it because I don't trust them. If someone got a hidden agenda, they ain't going to show it off now, of all time. I'm just trying to keep myself busy by doing my job... which as far as I'm concerned, is making sure everyone stays in one piece.
I swing my head round as I hear someone's feet on the stairs. It's Vera. She ain't a half bad looking broad, when she cleans down instead of up. The fancy dress' finally off, which is a good thing. The lights a smoke as she comes down on the tarmac.
I give her a small nod.
“Hey kid. Nice shirt.”
I ain't really the smiling kind, so I go for the nod instead. Seems to put some people at ease. Makes 'em know I got their back. I wasn't too sure about that chick, when she up at the bar. But quite frankly, since Hodder and her are the two only other adults on this fucking team, I can't ignore her. At least, I can count on her to keep her own head down if the leads starts flying.
When she orders Hodder to pull his fucking pants down, I can't help myself but laugh a bit.
For a second, I'm thinking about going round the plane and getting my rifle out. I feel real fuckin naked with nothing but a .44 canon. Thats one of the thing I hate about the “unofficial” side of the private sector; you gotta be subtle and sneaky. It ain't good to walk around showing off firepower. Not like when you're wearing a uniform. I fucking hate having to pass for a civilian.
Everyone seems to kick into gear; stretching, grabbing stuff left and right. Hodder looks around like he's checking out for the local massage parlour. Vera goes back inside, and Dartha locks herself in the bathroom. So be it. I get busy by staying at the bottom the plane's stairs, arms crossed, and my best “fuck you” face. From here, I can keep half an eye on almost everyone. I ain't doing it because I don't trust them. If someone got a hidden agenda, they ain't going to show it off now, of all time. I'm just trying to keep myself busy by doing my job... which as far as I'm concerned, is making sure everyone stays in one piece.
I swing my head round as I hear someone's feet on the stairs. It's Vera. She ain't a half bad looking broad, when she cleans down instead of up. The fancy dress' finally off, which is a good thing. The lights a smoke as she comes down on the tarmac.
I give her a small nod.
“Hey kid. Nice shirt.”
I ain't really the smiling kind, so I go for the nod instead. Seems to put some people at ease. Makes 'em know I got their back. I wasn't too sure about that chick, when she up at the bar. But quite frankly, since Hodder and her are the two only other adults on this fucking team, I can't ignore her. At least, I can count on her to keep her own head down if the leads starts flying.
When she orders Hodder to pull his fucking pants down, I can't help myself but laugh a bit.
Vera looks back at Dexter and grins "Pope, you're next. All of you will be getting a shot. And it will be in the posterior."
"Thanks, Vera, now I get to star in my own trid: Moon Over Cairo." Hodder drops his pants and displays a hairy ass to the city. As the hypo spray injects the prophylactics, he muses, "Good thing I have a Task Spirit in me. With my luck right now, a spirit with an aura of energy would burn Vera for poking us."
Hodder abstains from any of the loading duties, making sure he does nothing to exert himself. "Sorry. Just taking a bit of care right now. A day or two and I should be healed."
Hodder is glad to see the team begin to look like it is going into 'deepest, darkest Africa'. The jibes are taking a more collegial note, too. Good.
Hodder abstains from any of the loading duties, making sure he does nothing to exert himself. "Sorry. Just taking a bit of care right now. A day or two and I should be healed."
Hodder is glad to see the team begin to look like it is going into 'deepest, darkest Africa'. The jibes are taking a more collegial note, too. Good.
The flight crew which consists of Digits, the troll, and two humans snicker at Hodder's expense. Jane in her good nature laughs as well.
[Spoiler for Belloq and anyone who gets five hits on their perception test]
[Spoiler for Belloq and anyone who gets five hits on their perception test]
[ Spoiler ]
"Hoy, chummers," Hodder likes the sound of the slang, "Is there any reason a sharp light or signal should be coming from the flight tower over there?"
Dartha notices first Hodder then Dexter getting a shot in the ass. It would seem these are the shots she heard about. She's still not detecting any fell intent, so she walks over towards Vera. "Well, I guess not having time to get chemical protection on this outfit's going to come in handy at least in one special circumstance. Unfortunately for Vera, I happen to know that hypospray will go through the layer over my ass, which I just know is going to spoil her entire party. How sad," she finishes with a nasty little girl voice in her own head, not letting a trace of it show on her face.
She realizes that Hodder just said something actually directed generally, not to somebody specific. "What was that, Hodder?"
She realizes that Hodder just said something actually directed generally, not to somebody specific. "What was that, Hodder?"
"Look at the flight tower over there, Dartha. There's an unusual glint of light coming from it. Not a reflection in the window. Something else."
Queued in precisely by Hodder's precise instructions, Dartha spots the light he's talking about.
"What the hell IS that?"
[ Spoiler ]
"What the hell IS that?"
Friday, April 6th, 2072, 1045 hours, Cairo Egypt
It was hot in Cairo today, Jack noted to himself as he sipped on a small cup of coffee at his second floor balcony overlooking the busy street full of shisha bars and coffee houses. A breeze was steady but provided no relief to Jack, even in the light cotton dishdashas of the local populace it was still hot enough for Jack to sweat through the brim of the taqiyah on his head. A paper lay bundled up, unread on the table next to his right hand….Jack was not sure these days if it still could be considered his hand. It was metals, ceramics, wires and artificial musculature, not his old flesh and bone anymore.
The imaging software targeted movement, it had been all morning, but this time the probability match on the facial recognition started clocking at 70% and kept climbing. A slight smile crept across Jacks heavily bearded face as the final read out gave a 98.996% match. The mustached man took a seat at the café across from the balcony. Another tip from Uncle Abbadis that was correct.
One last thing to do….
Jack wills the ‘link to open up a screen in his glasses, and commands the two programs to execute. Jack watches as the mustached man begins to murmur to himself, but has an open audience to what is being said. Another link opens in query mode, an incoming message. Jack minimizes it to his periphery for later glance; his attention is elsewhere for the moment.
The German speaks first “Yes Abdeeb.”
“You need some information?”
“What information?”
“What do you mean what information? You called me Günter.”
…confirmation….
“No, you called me. Abdeeb? You still there? You need to run, now!”
Abdeeb looks confused as he begins to rise from his seat, looking around nervously as panic begins to fill him. The first burst sends him back into his chair clumsily as the rounds impact into his upper chest and throat. The impacts barely have time to begin soaking and staining the white linen dishdashas under his grey suit jacket in the crimson red of blood, when the next set slams into his midsection, a final round enters his skull as he slumps forward onto the table. It is only then that an attack is obvious to those on the streets and in the café, women begin screaming and men duck and running away unsure of where the silenced rounds came from.
On the balcony Jack rises slowly from his seat, keeping the bundled paper, and the slightly smoking and silenced Scorpion Machine Pistol it’s hiding, at his side as he walks inside to the apartment with his half full cup of coffee. After placing the cup on a table Jack draws the slatted door to the balcony shut then he removes the dishdashas he’s wearing to reveal a blue-grey suit underneath. From a small black cloth bag he removes a large squirt bottle. He begins to spray down the area with the cleaner including the cup and the outer clothes he was wearing, before putting them into the bag along with the suppressed machine pistol. He dumps the rest of the cleaner in the bag before exiting out the door.
“That you Jack?” Gunter says over the still active connection.
“Answer me you filthy mongrel tusker.”
“When I find you, I’m going to kill you this time tusker”
Smiling “You’ll have to find me without your snitch this time Euro-trash.” Jack says as he severs the line mentally.
Outside the door is a man of Arab decent in a light colored suit, he takes the bag and escorts Jack down the stairs into a waiting Mercedes sedan. They speed off as he looks at his message. A smile forms on his face as he reads it, and replies.
<Yes I can be in Cairo. Terms acceptable.>
Jack then connects to his Uncle’s disposable MSP, where it is picked up after two rings.
[In Arabic, spoken aloud]
“Everything was as it should be nephew?”
“Yes Uncle, I have much to thank you for.”
“Non-sense, you are my nephew and an attack on you is upon me as well….and who I represent.”
“I won’t be needing a way back home, I’ve made other arrangements.”
“Will you need the safe house? The arrangements have already been made.”
“I cannot further impose on you Uncle.”
“Non-sense, it has already been arranged so use it.”
“Thank you again Uncle.”
It is 45 minutes before the sedan pulls into a walled driveway. Jack and the other two Arab men exit. The driver asks in Arabic if he would like them to stay. Jack replies back that he appreciates their help, but it isn’t needed. The occasion of their leaving is marked with formal cheek kissing and congratulations. Jack enters the dark house and secures himself within, taking the time to busy himself on cleaning and maintenance of his working gear, and in two days that’s a lot of busy work.
It is a simple matter to arrange a commuter van to the airstrip.
It was hot in Cairo today, Jack noted to himself as he sipped on a small cup of coffee at his second floor balcony overlooking the busy street full of shisha bars and coffee houses. A breeze was steady but provided no relief to Jack, even in the light cotton dishdashas of the local populace it was still hot enough for Jack to sweat through the brim of the taqiyah on his head. A paper lay bundled up, unread on the table next to his right hand….Jack was not sure these days if it still could be considered his hand. It was metals, ceramics, wires and artificial musculature, not his old flesh and bone anymore.
The imaging software targeted movement, it had been all morning, but this time the probability match on the facial recognition started clocking at 70% and kept climbing. A slight smile crept across Jacks heavily bearded face as the final read out gave a 98.996% match. The mustached man took a seat at the café across from the balcony. Another tip from Uncle Abbadis that was correct.
One last thing to do….
Jack wills the ‘link to open up a screen in his glasses, and commands the two programs to execute. Jack watches as the mustached man begins to murmur to himself, but has an open audience to what is being said. Another link opens in query mode, an incoming message. Jack minimizes it to his periphery for later glance; his attention is elsewhere for the moment.
The German speaks first “Yes Abdeeb.”
“You need some information?”
“What information?”
“What do you mean what information? You called me Günter.”
…confirmation….
“No, you called me. Abdeeb? You still there? You need to run, now!”
Abdeeb looks confused as he begins to rise from his seat, looking around nervously as panic begins to fill him. The first burst sends him back into his chair clumsily as the rounds impact into his upper chest and throat. The impacts barely have time to begin soaking and staining the white linen dishdashas under his grey suit jacket in the crimson red of blood, when the next set slams into his midsection, a final round enters his skull as he slumps forward onto the table. It is only then that an attack is obvious to those on the streets and in the café, women begin screaming and men duck and running away unsure of where the silenced rounds came from.
On the balcony Jack rises slowly from his seat, keeping the bundled paper, and the slightly smoking and silenced Scorpion Machine Pistol it’s hiding, at his side as he walks inside to the apartment with his half full cup of coffee. After placing the cup on a table Jack draws the slatted door to the balcony shut then he removes the dishdashas he’s wearing to reveal a blue-grey suit underneath. From a small black cloth bag he removes a large squirt bottle. He begins to spray down the area with the cleaner including the cup and the outer clothes he was wearing, before putting them into the bag along with the suppressed machine pistol. He dumps the rest of the cleaner in the bag before exiting out the door.
“That you Jack?” Gunter says over the still active connection.
“Answer me you filthy mongrel tusker.”
“When I find you, I’m going to kill you this time tusker”
Smiling “You’ll have to find me without your snitch this time Euro-trash.” Jack says as he severs the line mentally.
Outside the door is a man of Arab decent in a light colored suit, he takes the bag and escorts Jack down the stairs into a waiting Mercedes sedan. They speed off as he looks at his message. A smile forms on his face as he reads it, and replies.
<Yes I can be in Cairo. Terms acceptable.>
Jack then connects to his Uncle’s disposable MSP, where it is picked up after two rings.
[In Arabic, spoken aloud]
“Everything was as it should be nephew?”
“Yes Uncle, I have much to thank you for.”
“Non-sense, you are my nephew and an attack on you is upon me as well….and who I represent.”
“I won’t be needing a way back home, I’ve made other arrangements.”
“Will you need the safe house? The arrangements have already been made.”
“I cannot further impose on you Uncle.”
“Non-sense, it has already been arranged so use it.”
“Thank you again Uncle.”
It is 45 minutes before the sedan pulls into a walled driveway. Jack and the other two Arab men exit. The driver asks in Arabic if he would like them to stay. Jack replies back that he appreciates their help, but it isn’t needed. The occasion of their leaving is marked with formal cheek kissing and congratulations. Jack enters the dark house and secures himself within, taking the time to busy himself on cleaning and maintenance of his working gear, and in two days that’s a lot of busy work.
It is a simple matter to arrange a commuter van to the airstrip.
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