Cutty and Waylon say that they'll do the dishes. Waylon, especially, seems to be in no hurry to leave. He's already been in your house all day so, sure, why not a little longer.
You get dressed for the Funhouse, knowing that it's a Sunday night and probably not a party night. But who knows. It's not like gangers or the Barrens stick to a traditional work schedule, although Sundays do seem quieter than other days.
You drive north out of Touristville. The Funhouse is at Cottage Lake, which is basically a straight shot north on Avondale Road. Easy, as long as the road isn't in pieces. Road maintenance isn't exactly a priority in Redmond, especially outside of Touristville, but this stretch of pavement is decent enough. One wonders if Urubia keeps it maintained under an "All Road Lead to Rome" philosophy.
Pulling up to the Funhouse, you're met by a patrol of Crimson Guards. They lean down to see who is in the car. The human guard visibly sighs - his aura indicates annoyance - but he lets you pass and wordlessly directs you to the parking garage.
Security is reasonably tight. You see at least a dozen Crimson Guards patrolling, usually in pairs. There are plentiful spirits about too, some of which are a size that would make even an accomplished magician pause.
The parking garage is fairly empty, at least compared to the Thanksgiving party at the Funhouse. It's easy to park next to the elevator. Inside the elevator it seems like there should be some security that would restrict what floors you can visit, but if there is then you can't see it - or it has been specifically lifted for you. The AR menu allows you to signal both the 10th floor - for Grinder's room - and the 12th floor, from which you would climb stairs to reach Urubia's aerie.
Full Version: The Found Arcana - Chapter 8 [IC]
A bit of sign language let Bobby say: "The walls are listening, send spirit with me for speaking. Calling on comms, say "Bison" if you are ok".
Then he hit the number 10 and said audible: "You'll see we can clear this up I. No time. Let's meet at the car in an hour. Otherwise call."
Then he hit the number 10 and said audible: "You'll see we can clear this up I. No time. Let's meet at the car in an hour. Otherwise call."
Jawsey had dressed in the (modified) outfit from their Christmas gig. Was it fancy for the Funhouse? Yes. Did he particularly want to fit in? No. On the drive over, and on the way in, he was quiet, deliberately pulling into himself, calming his emotions, listening to his own breathing and trying to avoid reacting emotionally.
He nodded to indicate that he'd understood Bobby's hand gestures, then stared forward impassively.
He nodded to indicate that he'd understood Bobby's hand gestures, then stared forward impassively.
"I'll send Trouble with you, not sure about summoning or casting spells in here. " she responds with hand gestures.
Bobby & Trouble
Bobby gets out on the 10th floor. The layout of the hallway looks like an apartment building or a hotel. There's a little sign in the elevator lobby that indicates which rooms are in which direction plus an ARO to the same effect. Even on the astral, there are signs written in bio-luminescent algae that spell out the same information.
Bobby takes a right and follows the hallway. It's very quiet; the carpet is thick and soft and helps to absorb sound. Either there's nobody in any of these apartments or the doors are so thick that no sound escapes from inside.
Bobby turns a corner and walks down a second hallway. All of the lights work. There's tasteful artwork on the walls. There are no stains on the carpets, which have been recently vacuumed. It's clearly well-maintained.
At the end of the second hallways is room 1010, a corner unit. Bobby knocks but doesn't receive an answer. He knocks again but still no response. He tries the door handle and finds that it's unlocked, so he steps inside.
Not that Bobby spends a lot of time in high-end hotels, but that's exactly what this place looks like. Or, at least what a high-end hotel looks like on the trid. There's soft carpet throughout. The furnishings are in gentle shades of white and tan. The couches and tables are clean and luxurious. He passes by a bedroom - it looks like a guest bedroom, not even the master bedroom - with a thick duvet and soft pillows. All in all, it looks like the lap of luxury.
Except, there are absolutely no indications that any of it is in use. It doesn't looked "lived in". If anything, it looks like it has been perfectly staged for a photo shoot. Absolutely nothing is out-of-place; everything is immaculate. Even the astral space has been scrubbed to a high shine; there's no indication that this space has been aspected to the occupant.
Bobby finally finds Grinder (?) standing in front of a window looking out. The man is an African-American dwarf with long, tightly-braided black hair that extends down his back. He's wearing an armored vest but no shirt, which shows off his muscular arms. On the astral, Bobby can see that the man is a powerful initiate, even more potent than Bobby himself.
The dwarf doesn't respond to Bobby or react in any way. He just keeps staring out the window at the world below.
Bobby gets out on the 10th floor. The layout of the hallway looks like an apartment building or a hotel. There's a little sign in the elevator lobby that indicates which rooms are in which direction plus an ARO to the same effect. Even on the astral, there are signs written in bio-luminescent algae that spell out the same information.
Bobby takes a right and follows the hallway. It's very quiet; the carpet is thick and soft and helps to absorb sound. Either there's nobody in any of these apartments or the doors are so thick that no sound escapes from inside.
Bobby turns a corner and walks down a second hallway. All of the lights work. There's tasteful artwork on the walls. There are no stains on the carpets, which have been recently vacuumed. It's clearly well-maintained.
At the end of the second hallways is room 1010, a corner unit. Bobby knocks but doesn't receive an answer. He knocks again but still no response. He tries the door handle and finds that it's unlocked, so he steps inside.
Not that Bobby spends a lot of time in high-end hotels, but that's exactly what this place looks like. Or, at least what a high-end hotel looks like on the trid. There's soft carpet throughout. The furnishings are in gentle shades of white and tan. The couches and tables are clean and luxurious. He passes by a bedroom - it looks like a guest bedroom, not even the master bedroom - with a thick duvet and soft pillows. All in all, it looks like the lap of luxury.
Except, there are absolutely no indications that any of it is in use. It doesn't looked "lived in". If anything, it looks like it has been perfectly staged for a photo shoot. Absolutely nothing is out-of-place; everything is immaculate. Even the astral space has been scrubbed to a high shine; there's no indication that this space has been aspected to the occupant.
Bobby finally finds Grinder (?) standing in front of a window looking out. The man is an African-American dwarf with long, tightly-braided black hair that extends down his back. He's wearing an armored vest but no shirt, which shows off his muscular arms. On the astral, Bobby can see that the man is a powerful initiate, even more potent than Bobby himself.
The dwarf doesn't respond to Bobby or react in any way. He just keeps staring out the window at the world below.
AM & Jawsey
AM and Jawsey continue to the 12th floor. They get off and find the party space with the bars, casinos, and dance floor, except this time it is quiet and devoid of revelers. There are some Crimson Guards, which eye you warily and occasionally grunt but don't make any moves to evict you.
Jawsey knows the way to the doors leading to Urubia's quarters. There are two Crimson Guards there, a male human and a female elf, who stop to block your progress. On the astral they look annoyed and... jealous? There's a definite tinge of jealousy, which they do a poor job of concealing with the twisted expressions on their faces.
"You don't have an appointment," the male human complains.
Jawsey gives him a pointed look that says, It's me. The man sighs, concedes the point, and leans away, his body language indicating submission.
"Just him," the female elf tells AM, blocking her.
"She's with me," Jawsey says authoritatively. The elf withers under his stare, evidently not willing to press the issue. She steps back but mutters, "Nice clothes, tramp," in a sarcastic tone under her breath as AM passes. If she can't stop you then she'll be catty and try to tear you down from the inside.
Jawsey opens the door for AM and they walk through, then it's up the marble stairs to Urubia's quarters, which are grand. There is a great deal of artwork around, most of it from the Salish-Shidhe Council. The ceilings are extremely tall, which allow Urubia to be in her draconic form inside when she wishes. The floors are polished quartz. From his knowledge of architecture, Jawsey knows that quartz is very durable and, again, must be to support Urubia in her natural form.
"You've come to me!" Urubia cries in a delighted tone, racing forward to hug Jawsey. This is slightly awkward as her current form is a striking, svelte woman who is wearing a green silk robe that's so thin as to be sheer. The robe leaves little to the imagination and provides almost no separation as she embraces Jawsey warmly.
Then she turns her attention to AM. "Oo, who have you brought me?" she coos. Urubia's manners and tone are much friendly than the Crimson Guard downstairs. She extends a hand for AM to shake. "I am Urubia," she says unnecessarily, but she's clearly being polite. Then there's a flash of recognition, "Oh, I know you! Or, more accurately, I know your friend that you sent with Jawsey the last time he visited. Such a pretty kitty! You are talented, my darling, talented!" She gently cups her soft, warm hand to AM's cheek with a look of genuine affection.
AM and Jawsey continue to the 12th floor. They get off and find the party space with the bars, casinos, and dance floor, except this time it is quiet and devoid of revelers. There are some Crimson Guards, which eye you warily and occasionally grunt but don't make any moves to evict you.
Jawsey knows the way to the doors leading to Urubia's quarters. There are two Crimson Guards there, a male human and a female elf, who stop to block your progress. On the astral they look annoyed and... jealous? There's a definite tinge of jealousy, which they do a poor job of concealing with the twisted expressions on their faces.
"You don't have an appointment," the male human complains.
Jawsey gives him a pointed look that says, It's me. The man sighs, concedes the point, and leans away, his body language indicating submission.
"Just him," the female elf tells AM, blocking her.
"She's with me," Jawsey says authoritatively. The elf withers under his stare, evidently not willing to press the issue. She steps back but mutters, "Nice clothes, tramp," in a sarcastic tone under her breath as AM passes. If she can't stop you then she'll be catty and try to tear you down from the inside.
Jawsey opens the door for AM and they walk through, then it's up the marble stairs to Urubia's quarters, which are grand. There is a great deal of artwork around, most of it from the Salish-Shidhe Council. The ceilings are extremely tall, which allow Urubia to be in her draconic form inside when she wishes. The floors are polished quartz. From his knowledge of architecture, Jawsey knows that quartz is very durable and, again, must be to support Urubia in her natural form.
"You've come to me!" Urubia cries in a delighted tone, racing forward to hug Jawsey. This is slightly awkward as her current form is a striking, svelte woman who is wearing a green silk robe that's so thin as to be sheer. The robe leaves little to the imagination and provides almost no separation as she embraces Jawsey warmly.
Then she turns her attention to AM. "Oo, who have you brought me?" she coos. Urubia's manners and tone are much friendly than the Crimson Guard downstairs. She extends a hand for AM to shake. "I am Urubia," she says unnecessarily, but she's clearly being polite. Then there's a flash of recognition, "Oh, I know you! Or, more accurately, I know your friend that you sent with Jawsey the last time he visited. Such a pretty kitty! You are talented, my darling, talented!" She gently cups her soft, warm hand to AM's cheek with a look of genuine affection.
Bobby knew a powerplay when he saw one. Instead of trying to get the dwarf's attention, he went to the bathroom to first relieve himself in the nice and shiny pissoir. After washing his hands and drying them on one of the pristine white towels, he made a beeline for the minibar to get himself a beer, asking casually:
"You want one too?"
"You want one too?"
The minibar is completely stocked. So is the fridge, including fresh fruit and vegetables. Both are full all the way to the front, as if nothing had been removed from them. Or, if anything had been removed, it had been immediately replaced.
Bobby finds several fashionable microbrews, almost all of which are from the Seattle Metroplex. Some of them are even from nearby in Redmond, which is a delicate balancing act when it comes to marketing. It's one thing to be a proletariat brew, a beer of the common man, but quite another to endanger your customers with water from questionable municipal sources.
"No," Grinder says, breaking his silence. "They don't taste right. I'll take the homemade stuff."
Bobby sees an unlabeled brown glass bottle that looks and smells like powerful moonshine.
Bobby finds several fashionable microbrews, almost all of which are from the Seattle Metroplex. Some of them are even from nearby in Redmond, which is a delicate balancing act when it comes to marketing. It's one thing to be a proletariat brew, a beer of the common man, but quite another to endanger your customers with water from questionable municipal sources.
"No," Grinder says, breaking his silence. "They don't taste right. I'll take the homemade stuff."
Bobby sees an unlabeled brown glass bottle that looks and smells like powerful moonshine.
AM:
With AM being nervous about the encounter, the woman's comment toches deep insecurity about her physical appearance. Did she overdo it? Is her cleavage too much or the dress too tight? Even her very vanilla dressing now appears a bit exposed in AM's mind. She rationalizes:"Objectively, I am fine. Women dress like this when they feel safe. I want to feel safe - I am okay to dress like this."
Then again, as she enters Urubia's chamber, her doubts about her appearance fade when she sees what Urubia is wearing. The woman is breathtakingly beautiful and confident and she understands why Jawsey is terrified of her.
AM shakes the offered hand and introduces herself as "Amy Maka Green". AM is uncertain if Urubia is a first name which makes it an informal introduction, or if it is a title of Dragons. Or perhaps Dragons do not go by family names because they are immortal and each one is its own family line. She figures it is best to err on the side of formality rather than misread a situation and make a fool out of herself.
Urubia's hand on her cheek alarms AM; it is not unpleasant, but she is not used to people touching her normally. Being very surprised, she responds spontaneously, "My baby!" she says, excited to be reminded of Trouble,
"I am forever grateful to the Wakan Tanaka for their gifts, mentorship, and the privilege of educating a spirit." She says genuinely. This is how Dancing Bear has taught her, conditioned her even to deal with emotions of pride and greatness. The only thing to do with pride in your talent is to praise the great spirits that have chosen you as their voice. Otherwise, you would develop a character flaw, and the spirits can exploit such flaws to educate you in modesty.
Without zealots like him that have dedicated their life to training shamans for free - she would have never developed her talent - and as Dancing Bear would not like her to thank him but to thank the spirit she thanks the spirits for sending her the teacher she adores.
Catching her wits and regaining control of her warm emotions, she returns with a compliment I find your ability to bring different people together inspiring. You got the gangs of Redmond to work together in ways that I did not think were even possible." she says with genuine appreciation, even without meeting Urubia AM was very fond of her ambition and was a bit sad that she got paid to interfere with that ambition. At the time, Money was more important than ideology. Perhaps it is more important right now as well. Some people curve their image into this world, and she is struggling to keep her head above the water.
Trouble
Trouble follows Bobby astrally and searches the room and if he can access the nearby rooms for a trap. He carefully assense Grinder looking for any sign of aggression. He stays astral not because he expects it to keep him invisible but because it is his most mobile form.
With AM being nervous about the encounter, the woman's comment toches deep insecurity about her physical appearance. Did she overdo it? Is her cleavage too much or the dress too tight? Even her very vanilla dressing now appears a bit exposed in AM's mind. She rationalizes:"Objectively, I am fine. Women dress like this when they feel safe. I want to feel safe - I am okay to dress like this."
Then again, as she enters Urubia's chamber, her doubts about her appearance fade when she sees what Urubia is wearing. The woman is breathtakingly beautiful and confident and she understands why Jawsey is terrified of her.
AM shakes the offered hand and introduces herself as "Amy Maka Green". AM is uncertain if Urubia is a first name which makes it an informal introduction, or if it is a title of Dragons. Or perhaps Dragons do not go by family names because they are immortal and each one is its own family line. She figures it is best to err on the side of formality rather than misread a situation and make a fool out of herself.
Urubia's hand on her cheek alarms AM; it is not unpleasant, but she is not used to people touching her normally. Being very surprised, she responds spontaneously, "My baby!" she says, excited to be reminded of Trouble,
"I am forever grateful to the Wakan Tanaka for their gifts, mentorship, and the privilege of educating a spirit." She says genuinely. This is how Dancing Bear has taught her, conditioned her even to deal with emotions of pride and greatness. The only thing to do with pride in your talent is to praise the great spirits that have chosen you as their voice. Otherwise, you would develop a character flaw, and the spirits can exploit such flaws to educate you in modesty.
Without zealots like him that have dedicated their life to training shamans for free - she would have never developed her talent - and as Dancing Bear would not like her to thank him but to thank the spirit she thanks the spirits for sending her the teacher she adores.
Catching her wits and regaining control of her warm emotions, she returns with a compliment I find your ability to bring different people together inspiring. You got the gangs of Redmond to work together in ways that I did not think were even possible." she says with genuine appreciation, even without meeting Urubia AM was very fond of her ambition and was a bit sad that she got paid to interfere with that ambition. At the time, Money was more important than ideology. Perhaps it is more important right now as well. Some people curve their image into this world, and she is struggling to keep her head above the water.
Trouble
Trouble follows Bobby astrally and searches the room and if he can access the nearby rooms for a trap. He carefully assense Grinder looking for any sign of aggression. He stays astral not because he expects it to keep him invisible but because it is his most mobile form.
Urubia is just as much the apex predator in this form as she is as a dragon, so no less terrifying for all that she embodies everything that the trids have told Jawsey that he should lust for. For once he is grateful that he's always gravitated to the more damaged or less acceptable, as that maybe gives him a shred of insulation against Urubia's undeniable sex appeal. Still, he has a flash of realization that the image of Urubia in that 'dress' is apt to haunt both his dreams and nightmares going forward. Well, maybe he could trade this experience to Greentoes?
He also feels a bit bad furthering the entanglement of AM with the dragon, but resigned that ultimately it is her choice. At the same time he is happy that Urubia likes her new toy, and he tries to focus on that emotion.
When it comes to words, he settles for "You are like the sun over Redmond, the gravity well that is unavoidable as well as the warmth that is helping it grow in new ways. Ultimately the pull of both is strong enough that it is hard to stay away."
He also feels a bit bad furthering the entanglement of AM with the dragon, but resigned that ultimately it is her choice. At the same time he is happy that Urubia likes her new toy, and he tries to focus on that emotion.
When it comes to words, he settles for "You are like the sun over Redmond, the gravity well that is unavoidable as well as the warmth that is helping it grow in new ways. Ultimately the pull of both is strong enough that it is hard to stay away."
Bobby took out the home-made stuff and handed it over, before taking a seat on one of the chairs.
He took a gulp before anything else.
"Nice view, you've got here. A real golden cage if ever I've seen one. Cheers."
Bobby took another sipp. The stuff was strong and he wasn't usually drinking any alcohol, so he had to be careful. Still, the stuff tasted good. A little sweet, a little bitter, more bubbles than he was used to, but mainly a yeasty flavor.
"Alright, hit me. What possible reason could your council have to try to murder one of my colleagues, destroy our premises and terrorize the neighborhood and potential clients? We pay our dues regularly and on time. We even have done work for some of you as well as traded goods and information fair and square."
He took a gulp before anything else.
"Nice view, you've got here. A real golden cage if ever I've seen one. Cheers."
Bobby took another sipp. The stuff was strong and he wasn't usually drinking any alcohol, so he had to be careful. Still, the stuff tasted good. A little sweet, a little bitter, more bubbles than he was used to, but mainly a yeasty flavor.
"Alright, hit me. What possible reason could your council have to try to murder one of my colleagues, destroy our premises and terrorize the neighborhood and potential clients? We pay our dues regularly and on time. We even have done work for some of you as well as traded goods and information fair and square."
AM and Jawsey
Urubia smiles warmly. "You are both too kind.
"Come in, come in!" She ushers you into vast quarters, which look like a giant ballroom from a great palace in terms of size and scale. At the far end of the room there are absolutely giant windows that look out over the world below. "I'd take you up to the gardens but it's dark now and frightfully cold up there. Brrr!" She gives a little shiver that surely must be practiced, even coquettish, as it's difficult to imagine a dragon feeling cold.
There are some chaise lounges and divans near the window. She invites you to sit.
"May I offer you anything? Champagne and strawberries? Pears and blue cheese? A Roquefort just arrived from Tir Tairngire today. They make it in the Rogue River Valley, in the very south near the border with California Free State. Some say it is the greatest cheese in the world! May I interest you in some?" She has a silver bowl brimming with fresh and dried fruits, including apples, grapes, pomegranates, and dried dates.
After she's played the hostess, she says, "I, too, am grateful to Wakȟáŋ Tȟáŋka as it has brought us all together. What a gift to share this time with one another!" She has a glass of something golden and bubbly which she sips from delicately. She seems to have no agenda other than companionship and conversation.
--------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
"Precisely," Grinder agrees. "A gilded cage is still a cage."
Trouble explores a little bit and finds that most of the rooms have been warded in some way or another. Sometimes it is just the bedroom while other times it is the whole unit. Some walls are impassable due to some sort of astral security within the walls. It's a bit of a maze about what's accessible and what isn't.
Grinder's tone is hard when replying to Bobby's questions.
"You're not alive by accident. If someone wanted you dead, you'd be a fine red mist. If someone wanted your premises destroyed, they'd be rubble.
I'm not here to answer questions; I'm here to tell you how things are going to be. If you don't do nothing else, nothing else will be done to you. Don't start no drek, won't be no drek."
Urubia smiles warmly. "You are both too kind.
"Come in, come in!" She ushers you into vast quarters, which look like a giant ballroom from a great palace in terms of size and scale. At the far end of the room there are absolutely giant windows that look out over the world below. "I'd take you up to the gardens but it's dark now and frightfully cold up there. Brrr!" She gives a little shiver that surely must be practiced, even coquettish, as it's difficult to imagine a dragon feeling cold.
There are some chaise lounges and divans near the window. She invites you to sit.
"May I offer you anything? Champagne and strawberries? Pears and blue cheese? A Roquefort just arrived from Tir Tairngire today. They make it in the Rogue River Valley, in the very south near the border with California Free State. Some say it is the greatest cheese in the world! May I interest you in some?" She has a silver bowl brimming with fresh and dried fruits, including apples, grapes, pomegranates, and dried dates.
After she's played the hostess, she says, "I, too, am grateful to Wakȟáŋ Tȟáŋka as it has brought us all together. What a gift to share this time with one another!" She has a glass of something golden and bubbly which she sips from delicately. She seems to have no agenda other than companionship and conversation.
--------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
QUOTE (Jack_Spade @ Jan 23 2022, 08:03 AM) 
"Nice view, you've got here. A real golden cage if ever I've seen one. Cheers."
"Precisely," Grinder agrees. "A gilded cage is still a cage."
Trouble explores a little bit and finds that most of the rooms have been warded in some way or another. Sometimes it is just the bedroom while other times it is the whole unit. Some walls are impassable due to some sort of astral security within the walls. It's a bit of a maze about what's accessible and what isn't.
Grinder's tone is hard when replying to Bobby's questions.
"You're not alive by accident. If someone wanted you dead, you'd be a fine red mist. If someone wanted your premises destroyed, they'd be rubble.
I'm not here to answer questions; I'm here to tell you how things are going to be. If you don't do nothing else, nothing else will be done to you. Don't start no drek, won't be no drek."
AM and Jawsey
Urubia smiles warmly. "You are both too kind.
"Come in, come in!" She ushers you into vast quarters, which look like a giant ballroom from a great palace in terms of size and scale. At the far end of the room there are absolutely giant windows that look out over the world below. "I'd take you up to the gardens but it's dark now and frightfully cold up there. Brrr!" She gives a little shiver that surely must be practiced, even coquettish, as it's difficult to imagine a dragon feeling cold.
There are some chaise lounges and divans near the window. She invites you to sit.
"May I offer you anything? Champagne and strawberries? Pears and blue cheese? A Roquefort just arrived from Tir Tairngire today. They make it in the Rogue River Valley, in the very south near the border with California Free State. Some say it is the greatest cheese in the world! May I interest you in some?" She has a silver bowl brimming with fresh and dried fruits, including apples, grapes, pomegranates, and dried dates.
After she's played the hostess, she says, "I, too, am grateful to Wakȟáŋ Tȟáŋka as it has brought us all together. What a gift to share this time with one another!" She has a glass of something golden and bubbly which she sips from delicately. She seems to have no agenda other than companionship and conversation.
--------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
"Precisely," Grinder agrees. "A gilded cage is still a cage."
Trouble explores a little bit and finds that most of the rooms have been warded in some way or another. Sometimes it is just the bedroom while other times it is the whole unit. Some walls are impassable due to some sort of astral security within the walls. It's a bit of a maze about what's accessible and what isn't.
Grinder's tone is hard when replying to Bobby's questions.
"You're not alive by accident. If someone wanted you dead, you'd be a fine red mist. If someone wanted your premises destroyed, they'd be rubble.
I'm not here to answer questions; I'm here to tell you how things are going to be. If you don't do nothing else, nothing else will be done to you. Don't start no drek, won't be no drek."
Urubia smiles warmly. "You are both too kind.
"Come in, come in!" She ushers you into vast quarters, which look like a giant ballroom from a great palace in terms of size and scale. At the far end of the room there are absolutely giant windows that look out over the world below. "I'd take you up to the gardens but it's dark now and frightfully cold up there. Brrr!" She gives a little shiver that surely must be practiced, even coquettish, as it's difficult to imagine a dragon feeling cold.
There are some chaise lounges and divans near the window. She invites you to sit.
"May I offer you anything? Champagne and strawberries? Pears and blue cheese? A Roquefort just arrived from Tir Tairngire today. They make it in the Rogue River Valley, in the very south near the border with California Free State. Some say it is the greatest cheese in the world! May I interest you in some?" She has a silver bowl brimming with fresh and dried fruits, including apples, grapes, pomegranates, and dried dates.
After she's played the hostess, she says, "I, too, am grateful to Wakȟáŋ Tȟáŋka as it has brought us all together. What a gift to share this time with one another!" She has a glass of something golden and bubbly which she sips from delicately. She seems to have no agenda other than companionship and conversation.
--------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
QUOTE (Jack_Spade @ Jan 23 2022, 08:03 AM)
"Nice view, you've got here. A real golden cage if ever I've seen one. Cheers."
"Precisely," Grinder agrees. "A gilded cage is still a cage."
Trouble explores a little bit and finds that most of the rooms have been warded in some way or another. Sometimes it is just the bedroom while other times it is the whole unit. Some walls are impassable due to some sort of astral security within the walls. It's a bit of a maze about what's accessible and what isn't.
Grinder's tone is hard when replying to Bobby's questions.
"You're not alive by accident. If someone wanted you dead, you'd be a fine red mist. If someone wanted your premises destroyed, they'd be rubble.
I'm not here to answer questions; I'm here to tell you how things are going to be. If you don't do nothing else, nothing else will be done to you. Don't start no drek, won't be no drek."
various thought fragments whiz through Jawsey's head at this reception Of all the ways to be overwhelmed by a dragon, there are worse .... do I flatter myself too much if I say 'great minds think alike' about the power of hospitality? .... does make sphaggeti seem underwhelming in comparison ... is she just taunting me with that cheese to see if I'm actually petty enough to refuse it? ... she probably doesn't know that we had guests to dinner .... no reason to be petty, really.
"Thank you for your hospitality. We did just eat, but your praise of that cheese intrigues me, and I would love an opportunity to try it. Thank you." When he does get to eat it, he takes small bites, letting the flavour spread through his mouth, and letting his pleasure be clear in his aura. He says "I'm far from a cheese expert, but that is a flavour I'll look back on fondly for years, I'm sure."
If small talk seems to be indicated, he'll ask about what musical acts have had the honor of playing here, and will use his knowledge of the music scene to try to make some reasonable comments and observations. Otherwise he's happy to let AM take the lead, as she was the one wanting to build a relationship with Urubia.
"Thank you for your hospitality. We did just eat, but your praise of that cheese intrigues me, and I would love an opportunity to try it. Thank you." When he does get to eat it, he takes small bites, letting the flavour spread through his mouth, and letting his pleasure be clear in his aura. He says "I'm far from a cheese expert, but that is a flavour I'll look back on fondly for years, I'm sure."
If small talk seems to be indicated, he'll ask about what musical acts have had the honor of playing here, and will use his knowledge of the music scene to try to make some reasonable comments and observations. Otherwise he's happy to let AM take the lead, as she was the one wanting to build a relationship with Urubia.
"Funny thing is: We didn't start no drek in the first place. For us it is like we have been blown up for paying our dues and helping the community.
The only thing that could be construed even remotely as a problem, was our run in with Carn-Evil - and there we didn't do anything, but tell him we would call the Crimson Crush about him trying to collect in their territory.
If we are punished for that it means, you all don't want peaceful remediation of conflict. You want us to bow our heads, pay and have our businesses fold.
After each month of this, there will be 10% less business to go around, until you have finally strangled your golden goose.
And the worst part - no-one has the cojones to actually take responsibility for this dumb message or explain what you want in the first place.
So I have to assume your committee has received false information and operates on false information that actively harms your business.
And besides: You could have told me what you just said over comm. So stop the mystery routine and spill: What was all this hassle inside off. You don't get to blow up my colleague without at least an explanation.
If the protection money we pay isn't buying people protection why should they pay at all? Or be honest with you if you aren't honest with them?
Honesty doesn't cost you anything, silence may cost you everything."
Bobby took a long pull from his bottle after this speach. It had taken a lot of effort for him to keep his calm. It helped, that he had rehearsed this speach in his head before coming here.
The only thing that could be construed even remotely as a problem, was our run in with Carn-Evil - and there we didn't do anything, but tell him we would call the Crimson Crush about him trying to collect in their territory.
If we are punished for that it means, you all don't want peaceful remediation of conflict. You want us to bow our heads, pay and have our businesses fold.
After each month of this, there will be 10% less business to go around, until you have finally strangled your golden goose.
And the worst part - no-one has the cojones to actually take responsibility for this dumb message or explain what you want in the first place.
So I have to assume your committee has received false information and operates on false information that actively harms your business.
And besides: You could have told me what you just said over comm. So stop the mystery routine and spill: What was all this hassle inside off. You don't get to blow up my colleague without at least an explanation.
If the protection money we pay isn't buying people protection why should they pay at all? Or be honest with you if you aren't honest with them?
Honesty doesn't cost you anything, silence may cost you everything."
Bobby took a long pull from his bottle after this speach. It had taken a lot of effort for him to keep his calm. It helped, that he had rehearsed this speach in his head before coming here.
AM follows Urubia and is surprised that she is still in the Barrens. She knows that Redmond was once a thriving place with a lot of glamour, but that was many decades ago in a different world. In another life, this meeting was a job interview in the tech industry where she would work on cutting-edge technology. In this life, AM came to bargain with the new queen of Redmond. She politely refuses food and drink but would have a drink to be polite. "Jawsey cooked the most amazing pasta for dinner." she says apologetically and with a grin at Jawey. Yet, she adds to remain polite. "Champagne can be nice," After taking a sip and enjoying herself, she says:
"I am grateful to you that you agreed to have us. You have met Jawsey, but I am not sure you have met my small organization. Seattle Investigative Services. SIS for short." AM hands Urubia her a business card. "We are private detectives with magical and technological capabilities. I am a sorcerer and a decker. Jawsey is our face and is a promising full magician in his own right. We also have Mato and Bobby, very talented detectives who bring unique abilities to the table. While we are new in Redmond, we racked up some reputation. It is a pleasure for me to introduce us. I hope that we will have a prosperous future together."
She'll drink and continue after a short while if Urubia allows her to. Taking a deep breath, AM speaks her mind, "I am here because your organization has recently sent a bomb to my doorstep and because Mato was hurt. As detectives, we have already identified the specific person who built the bomb. We are on route to understanding the power dynamics that ended up with a bomb at our doorstep. If it is within our power to amend these dynamics and fix this problem, we will do just that, and otherwise, we would likely leave your sphere of influence as your organization turned out to be too hostile toward us. Now, Mato would survive thanks to the Wakan Tanaka and modern medicine. So nothing irreversible has already happened. "
She pauses and then says: "I did not come to talk about us. We are talented and there would be options for us also outside Redmond. I came because your passion has touched Jawsey and indirectly myself, and I am genuinely curious.
She looks directly at her and is being genuine. Buissnesses take the initiative, and we follow a proactive path of finding our place in this world. Borrowing money, taking risks making friends, rivals. We bring money in, bringing life and livelihood to the people around us. I knew that Redmond was a lousy place for a business, but our options were minimal at the time. When I confronted Musai-San after the Crush and the Brain Eaters war, he said things would change for the better once your Syndicate forms.
It is not like me to believe crimelords, but somehow I believed Musai-San, and admittedly I dared to dream a bit about observing Redmond transforming into something else. Today, the great Destroyer has shattered my misconceptions about your organization along with the windows of my home." she grins and playfully gestures a big explosion with her hands.
So, gathering my wits and mocking myself for being so shortsighted, I decided that I wanted to meet you directly and just hear about your intentions and aspirations. Actually, your company is a unique experience that I would treasure deep within my heart even if our ways would not cross again.
"I am grateful to you that you agreed to have us. You have met Jawsey, but I am not sure you have met my small organization. Seattle Investigative Services. SIS for short." AM hands Urubia her a business card. "We are private detectives with magical and technological capabilities. I am a sorcerer and a decker. Jawsey is our face and is a promising full magician in his own right. We also have Mato and Bobby, very talented detectives who bring unique abilities to the table. While we are new in Redmond, we racked up some reputation. It is a pleasure for me to introduce us. I hope that we will have a prosperous future together."
She'll drink and continue after a short while if Urubia allows her to. Taking a deep breath, AM speaks her mind, "I am here because your organization has recently sent a bomb to my doorstep and because Mato was hurt. As detectives, we have already identified the specific person who built the bomb. We are on route to understanding the power dynamics that ended up with a bomb at our doorstep. If it is within our power to amend these dynamics and fix this problem, we will do just that, and otherwise, we would likely leave your sphere of influence as your organization turned out to be too hostile toward us. Now, Mato would survive thanks to the Wakan Tanaka and modern medicine. So nothing irreversible has already happened. "
She pauses and then says: "I did not come to talk about us. We are talented and there would be options for us also outside Redmond. I came because your passion has touched Jawsey and indirectly myself, and I am genuinely curious.
She looks directly at her and is being genuine. Buissnesses take the initiative, and we follow a proactive path of finding our place in this world. Borrowing money, taking risks making friends, rivals. We bring money in, bringing life and livelihood to the people around us. I knew that Redmond was a lousy place for a business, but our options were minimal at the time. When I confronted Musai-San after the Crush and the Brain Eaters war, he said things would change for the better once your Syndicate forms.
It is not like me to believe crimelords, but somehow I believed Musai-San, and admittedly I dared to dream a bit about observing Redmond transforming into something else. Today, the great Destroyer has shattered my misconceptions about your organization along with the windows of my home." she grins and playfully gestures a big explosion with her hands.
So, gathering my wits and mocking myself for being so shortsighted, I decided that I wanted to meet you directly and just hear about your intentions and aspirations. Actually, your company is a unique experience that I would treasure deep within my heart even if our ways would not cross again.
Bobby and Trouble
Grinder's expression and body language harden as Bobby continues his speech. He looks increasingly annoyed.
"What I told you had already been told to you, yet you called anyway. So I'm telling you to your face because it doesn't seem you'll listen to comms.
"Nobody's hiding from you. Nobody has denied responsibility. So is the issue that nobody has the cojones or that you don't have the brains?"
Grinder points out the window.
"Look out there. LOOK! Things are bad out there. BAD! But the scary thing is that they could be worse. Much worse. There are negative consequences no matter what you do; every decision made is the lesser of two evils. I'm not going to blow smoke up your hoop that things or right or fair because they never have been and never will be. You get old enough and you give up on your ideals, because you realize that your ideals are doing more harm than good. So you do a little evil to do a greater good!"
The meaning of this speech isn't exactly clear, but he seems to be getting worked up over something.
------------------------------------------------
AM and Jawsey
"Oh no!" Urubia gasps. She looks shocked, but who can really say with a dragon? Even on the astral, you know that her aura will look like... whatever she wants it to look like.
"Were you hurt??" she uses this as an opportunity to race over to Jawsey, her hands moving his head and face around as she inspects him. She studies his aura closely, and then AM's.
Once she has established that you are not, in fact, full of holes, she starts to answer AM's questions.
"I wish to create a haven, an oasis. Stability and order are the cornerstones of a functioning society. The city does not have the political will to provide this. The corporations do not have the financial incentive to provide this, so I will.
"Some will decry me as a dictator, an autocrat, as things must be my way. There is some truth to this. But I am stable, as constant as the northern star." This seems to be a reference to Jawsey's comment that she is 'like the sun over Redmond,' but AM can't help but note that this is a line from Shakespeare too. "That's a good foundation. You want flexibility and mutability in certain things, but not your foundation. You don't want your foundation to move.
"I won't age, I won't die. I can't be bribed; my ideas and my ideals are not for sale. I can be everything that a metahuman institution cannot be, and that's why we will succeed where governments and corporations have failed.
"But we still have work to do. So much work! If my passion has touched you then you must join me! All of you! I have space for you all, here, as secure as any AAA skyscraper. Better! How many skyscrapers have dragons guarding them? Here you will be safe, always. Then we could work together to make the vision a reality!"
Grinder's expression and body language harden as Bobby continues his speech. He looks increasingly annoyed.
"What I told you had already been told to you, yet you called anyway. So I'm telling you to your face because it doesn't seem you'll listen to comms.
"Nobody's hiding from you. Nobody has denied responsibility. So is the issue that nobody has the cojones or that you don't have the brains?"
Grinder points out the window.
"Look out there. LOOK! Things are bad out there. BAD! But the scary thing is that they could be worse. Much worse. There are negative consequences no matter what you do; every decision made is the lesser of two evils. I'm not going to blow smoke up your hoop that things or right or fair because they never have been and never will be. You get old enough and you give up on your ideals, because you realize that your ideals are doing more harm than good. So you do a little evil to do a greater good!"
The meaning of this speech isn't exactly clear, but he seems to be getting worked up over something.
------------------------------------------------
AM and Jawsey
"Oh no!" Urubia gasps. She looks shocked, but who can really say with a dragon? Even on the astral, you know that her aura will look like... whatever she wants it to look like.
"Were you hurt??" she uses this as an opportunity to race over to Jawsey, her hands moving his head and face around as she inspects him. She studies his aura closely, and then AM's.
Once she has established that you are not, in fact, full of holes, she starts to answer AM's questions.
"I wish to create a haven, an oasis. Stability and order are the cornerstones of a functioning society. The city does not have the political will to provide this. The corporations do not have the financial incentive to provide this, so I will.
"Some will decry me as a dictator, an autocrat, as things must be my way. There is some truth to this. But I am stable, as constant as the northern star." This seems to be a reference to Jawsey's comment that she is 'like the sun over Redmond,' but AM can't help but note that this is a line from Shakespeare too. "That's a good foundation. You want flexibility and mutability in certain things, but not your foundation. You don't want your foundation to move.
"I won't age, I won't die. I can't be bribed; my ideas and my ideals are not for sale. I can be everything that a metahuman institution cannot be, and that's why we will succeed where governments and corporations have failed.
"But we still have work to do. So much work! If my passion has touched you then you must join me! All of you! I have space for you all, here, as secure as any AAA skyscraper. Better! How many skyscrapers have dragons guarding them? Here you will be safe, always. Then we could work together to make the vision a reality!"
Bobby decided to hammer the point: "Call me dumb all you want, but I want to hear it from the man who ordered the deed: Why did you blow up my friend? Who introduced the motion and who carried it?
The world isn't fair, but business is business. What is your price? And don't tell me you can't be bought. The fact that you sold out is all around us.
Hah, you know what? I just realized: You have nothing left. You got wealth, shelter and power. But it's all meaningless now. You founded the Nukes to protect the people from the enemies of the people. But you sold out your gang and your ethos. Now they are nothing more than cheap hitman. Expendable.
Now you are nothing more than a human ressources guy... pardon, meta-human ressources. Just another wageslave exec. A slimy parasite, bowing to your boardroom overlords, trampling everyone beneath you.
If you ever had a totem, it must have withered away when you lost your soul.
Thanks for the beer. I know the way out."
The world isn't fair, but business is business. What is your price? And don't tell me you can't be bought. The fact that you sold out is all around us.
Hah, you know what? I just realized: You have nothing left. You got wealth, shelter and power. But it's all meaningless now. You founded the Nukes to protect the people from the enemies of the people. But you sold out your gang and your ethos. Now they are nothing more than cheap hitman. Expendable.
Now you are nothing more than a human ressources guy... pardon, meta-human ressources. Just another wageslave exec. A slimy parasite, bowing to your boardroom overlords, trampling everyone beneath you.
If you ever had a totem, it must have withered away when you lost your soul.
Thanks for the beer. I know the way out."
[ Spoiler ]
Grinder grits his teeth, but seemingly more in frustration than in anger. The comment about 'enemies of the people' seems to have struck home.
"But that's precisely it!" he growls. "That's what I'm trying to tell you!
"There are bigger dangers! You can't blow up a pyramid from the outside! Sometimes you gotta dig into the drek, entomb yourself in everything you despise to make your ideals reality for everyone else."
He's getting passionate, practically spitting with fervor.
"You have to remove your ego from the equation. It's not all about me, or you. It's about something bigger! Sometimes you have to stand on someone's shoulders so that someone else can stand on yours!"
This is a remarkable sentiment from an avowed anarchist, someone who holds that authority and hierarchy are unnecessary, undesirable, and harmful.
"Does it look like I care?" he barks, giving a crude gesture to the surrounding apartment. "Take what you want, take it all. I sleep on the ground anyway."
This is a very confusing conversation. If he weren't so lucid, one might wonder what's in the brown bottle. Dwarves, though, man: they can drink.
"Nobody knows who your friend is. Nobody's seen him here, nobody's talked to him. If someone got scratched, and that someone happened to be your friend, then that's a bad beat. That's Redmond for you: nobody lucky lives here."
"But that's precisely it!" he growls. "That's what I'm trying to tell you!
"There are bigger dangers! You can't blow up a pyramid from the outside! Sometimes you gotta dig into the drek, entomb yourself in everything you despise to make your ideals reality for everyone else."
He's getting passionate, practically spitting with fervor.
"You have to remove your ego from the equation. It's not all about me, or you. It's about something bigger! Sometimes you have to stand on someone's shoulders so that someone else can stand on yours!"
This is a remarkable sentiment from an avowed anarchist, someone who holds that authority and hierarchy are unnecessary, undesirable, and harmful.
"Does it look like I care?" he barks, giving a crude gesture to the surrounding apartment. "Take what you want, take it all. I sleep on the ground anyway."
This is a very confusing conversation. If he weren't so lucid, one might wonder what's in the brown bottle. Dwarves, though, man: they can drink.
"Nobody knows who your friend is. Nobody's seen him here, nobody's talked to him. If someone got scratched, and that someone happened to be your friend, then that's a bad beat. That's Redmond for you: nobody lucky lives here."
How can she be so daring? Speaking so directly, no obfuscation or misdirection, no room to dodge or retreat. To Jawsey AM's directness was just about breathtaking, and he had to will himself to breath evenly.
And then .... it was OK?
The shock made Jawsey a bit slow to grasp what Urubia was saying, and when he did he found himself blurting out words before he'd re-phrased them for appropriate indirectness. "But how do you create growth if you pull all the talent in here, leaving the dregs out in the rest of Redmond? Don't you need us out there, bringing business into the area, spending money in the area, doing our bit to educate and help those around us? I don't claim that has gone especially well so far, but we are learning. Don't you need earthworms out there, each doing their bit to enrich this barren soil, so that your reforms can better take root and grow?"
I was blunt and I mangled the metaphors -- I really do deserve whatever is coming to me.
And then .... it was OK?
The shock made Jawsey a bit slow to grasp what Urubia was saying, and when he did he found himself blurting out words before he'd re-phrased them for appropriate indirectness. "But how do you create growth if you pull all the talent in here, leaving the dregs out in the rest of Redmond? Don't you need us out there, bringing business into the area, spending money in the area, doing our bit to educate and help those around us? I don't claim that has gone especially well so far, but we are learning. Don't you need earthworms out there, each doing their bit to enrich this barren soil, so that your reforms can better take root and grow?"
I was blunt and I mangled the metaphors -- I really do deserve whatever is coming to me.
AM allows a grin at the show of display, especially when their Auras had the exact information on their medical health. There was no need to be so human about it. The woman tries to appear human, to keep them comfortable, and it touches her, considering that her dragon form would have been a lot more challenging to digest and converse with.
AM grins, "Iktomi teaches us that too much safety makes us weak, and Julius Ceaser has taught me that the Queen's court is never a safe place. We are taking a risk just coming to speak to you, big people big rivals. There are other dragons out there, and I am sure some of them would have issues with you. If I become your best friend, then I'll make myself a target for some other very powerful dragon that wants to hurt you, and then I'll have to hide in your palace to be safe. If I do, I'll have nothing interesting to tell you, no new insights no new experiences. You'll get bored with us and lose interest. So, I don't think you actually want us here. The best I can offer is a mutually beneficial relationship from a distance where we feel safe. When you need our services you hire us and we would give you the best of our ability. When you do not need us, we make ourselves useful to other people improve our skills and keep ourselves busy and in a constant state of growth and development.
I think that the big question is if you want Redmond to be safe enough to conduct legitimate businesses? Right now, the system allows each gang lieutenant to do whatever they want, make outrageous or corrupt demands, and when someone stands in their way they can work the council to blow up a building in Touristville. People would avoid a town where every small dispute forces them to stand up to a syndicate backed up by a powerful dragon. In its current form, businesses do not even have a voice in your political machine, it does not provide basic safety for people living here and working here and the gangs would learn it and begin to abuse their power more and more.
It is all fine if this is what you want, I know my place and would not dream of standing in your way. If it is not what you want then you should come up with some mechanism that is more balanced, and makes blowing up buildings in your town a bit less arbitrary, and random. People should feel generally safe as long as they follow your rules, and if there is a dispute they should at least have some voice in it. Otherwise, the strong would leave for someplace better, and the weak would collapse. I am not worried about SIS, but this picture does not look very bright for Redmond economy-wise.
AM grins, "Iktomi teaches us that too much safety makes us weak, and Julius Ceaser has taught me that the Queen's court is never a safe place. We are taking a risk just coming to speak to you, big people big rivals. There are other dragons out there, and I am sure some of them would have issues with you. If I become your best friend, then I'll make myself a target for some other very powerful dragon that wants to hurt you, and then I'll have to hide in your palace to be safe. If I do, I'll have nothing interesting to tell you, no new insights no new experiences. You'll get bored with us and lose interest. So, I don't think you actually want us here. The best I can offer is a mutually beneficial relationship from a distance where we feel safe. When you need our services you hire us and we would give you the best of our ability. When you do not need us, we make ourselves useful to other people improve our skills and keep ourselves busy and in a constant state of growth and development.
I think that the big question is if you want Redmond to be safe enough to conduct legitimate businesses? Right now, the system allows each gang lieutenant to do whatever they want, make outrageous or corrupt demands, and when someone stands in their way they can work the council to blow up a building in Touristville. People would avoid a town where every small dispute forces them to stand up to a syndicate backed up by a powerful dragon. In its current form, businesses do not even have a voice in your political machine, it does not provide basic safety for people living here and working here and the gangs would learn it and begin to abuse their power more and more.
It is all fine if this is what you want, I know my place and would not dream of standing in your way. If it is not what you want then you should come up with some mechanism that is more balanced, and makes blowing up buildings in your town a bit less arbitrary, and random. People should feel generally safe as long as they follow your rules, and if there is a dispute they should at least have some voice in it. Otherwise, the strong would leave for someplace better, and the weak would collapse. I am not worried about SIS, but this picture does not look very bright for Redmond economy-wise.
"Maybe if you repeat that often enough to yourself you'll eventually believe that bulldrek yourself.
The dragons aren't going to help you against the blood corp. They are bullies and cowards, just bigger ones. You selling out won't save even one single meta-human soul.
I've always respected the Nuke's neo-anarchist principles, because our current system doesn't care.
You saw a problem and took personal responsibility back then. You didn't turn to some higher power, because you knew that if you want something done, you'd have to do it yourself.
But now...
Tell me, beside your surroundings that you don't care for, what have you accomplished by selling out that has made the life for anyone better or safer?
The lizard has certainly made a lot of promises, but what did you actually get out of submitting?
You wouldn't be staring out of your window if you were truly committed to the idea.
You decided to ride the tiger and now realize your mistake, because you can't get off anymore.
Newsflash: you can get off at any time - you just have to be quick and commit. The first rule of blackmail is to get your victim to provide you with more material for blackmail. The first rule for casino's is to get gamblers to keep gambling. The first rule for oppressors is to make the oppressed think they have no choice but to obey.
If you can't blow up the pyramid from outside it's because you didn't use enough boom stuff. All you get from becoming a part of the pyramid is a desicated mummy whose guts, brains and testicles are kept in a jar.
Someone once wrote: "All evil starts when you treat people like things." That's what you have become. You hide behind ideals, but ideals without principles are worth drek. There is always a convenient reason to defer responsibility, to hide behind authority.
And you are wrong on a second count: I know who Mato is. And I know who you were. And I know who I am.
And if necessary Bobby Mad Cat Walker will fragging go to war against all involved.
I didn't come to you to beg for a favor - I came to talk to you because I respect what you once were and what you stood for.
Enjoy your stay. Hit me up should you ever find your jars again."
Bobby's speach had become heated, but he kept his fury under control while he turned around to leave.
The dragons aren't going to help you against the blood corp. They are bullies and cowards, just bigger ones. You selling out won't save even one single meta-human soul.
I've always respected the Nuke's neo-anarchist principles, because our current system doesn't care.
You saw a problem and took personal responsibility back then. You didn't turn to some higher power, because you knew that if you want something done, you'd have to do it yourself.
But now...
Tell me, beside your surroundings that you don't care for, what have you accomplished by selling out that has made the life for anyone better or safer?
The lizard has certainly made a lot of promises, but what did you actually get out of submitting?
You wouldn't be staring out of your window if you were truly committed to the idea.
You decided to ride the tiger and now realize your mistake, because you can't get off anymore.
Newsflash: you can get off at any time - you just have to be quick and commit. The first rule of blackmail is to get your victim to provide you with more material for blackmail. The first rule for casino's is to get gamblers to keep gambling. The first rule for oppressors is to make the oppressed think they have no choice but to obey.
If you can't blow up the pyramid from outside it's because you didn't use enough boom stuff. All you get from becoming a part of the pyramid is a desicated mummy whose guts, brains and testicles are kept in a jar.
Someone once wrote: "All evil starts when you treat people like things." That's what you have become. You hide behind ideals, but ideals without principles are worth drek. There is always a convenient reason to defer responsibility, to hide behind authority.
And you are wrong on a second count: I know who Mato is. And I know who you were. And I know who I am.
And if necessary Bobby Mad Cat Walker will fragging go to war against all involved.
I didn't come to you to beg for a favor - I came to talk to you because I respect what you once were and what you stood for.
Enjoy your stay. Hit me up should you ever find your jars again."
Bobby's speach had become heated, but he kept his fury under control while he turned around to leave.
AM and Jawsey
Urubia smiles kindly.
"When you want a cup of tea, do you boil a pot of water or do you boil the ocean?
"When your enemy invades, do you spread your army out evenly throughout your empire, one soldier every hundred meters to protect each little plot of land? Or do you concentrate them into one combined force?
"It goes back to foundations. You want one broad and deep. Nobody can push a pyramid over, which is why I have my blocks stacked here."
If AM is eavesdropping on Bobby's conversation, then the shared metaphor might catch her ear.
"Together we can make a city on a hill, a beacon of light and hope, from which our strong and stable presence will radiate."
"Yes, perhaps. We do not walk around in helmets and bubble wrap after all. But is the concern about too much safety or too much comfort, hmm? Because if your goal is growth opportunities, I promise you that I can push you harder and that you will grow faster here than anywhere else. With me, you will be all that you can be."
She reclines on one of the chaise lounges. She does look rather seductive; perhaps AM's comparison to Cleopatra is not misplaced.
"But please do not say that I will get bored or lose interest. I have had many millennia to know myself, spending many centuries on introspection." Her tone is firmer on this point, but still respectful. "I know what I want, and what I want is to work with talented people such as yourself, Amy Maka Green, and you, Jawsey."
She's staring directly at you; you have her full attention. Her focus and presence are heady.
"You're absolutely right that things are not perfect. I accept that criticism. We are still in the early days of our enterprise and there are still wrinkles to smooth out.
"But that's why I need you and your talents! That's why I am so grateful Wakȟáŋ Tȟáŋka as it has brought us all together. There is a role here for you to play, if only Iktomi would give you the strength to accept the challenge."
QUOTE (Beta @ Jan 25 2022, 06:34 PM)
"But how do you create growth if you pull all the talent in here, leaving the dregs out in the rest of Redmond?"
Urubia smiles kindly.
"When you want a cup of tea, do you boil a pot of water or do you boil the ocean?
"When your enemy invades, do you spread your army out evenly throughout your empire, one soldier every hundred meters to protect each little plot of land? Or do you concentrate them into one combined force?
"It goes back to foundations. You want one broad and deep. Nobody can push a pyramid over, which is why I have my blocks stacked here."
If AM is eavesdropping on Bobby's conversation, then the shared metaphor might catch her ear.
"Together we can make a city on a hill, a beacon of light and hope, from which our strong and stable presence will radiate."
QUOTE (Gilga @ Jan 26 2022, 12:11 AM)
"Iktomi teaches us that too much safety makes us weak ... You'll get bored with us and lose interest. So, I don't think you actually want us here.
"Yes, perhaps. We do not walk around in helmets and bubble wrap after all. But is the concern about too much safety or too much comfort, hmm? Because if your goal is growth opportunities, I promise you that I can push you harder and that you will grow faster here than anywhere else. With me, you will be all that you can be."
She reclines on one of the chaise lounges. She does look rather seductive; perhaps AM's comparison to Cleopatra is not misplaced.
"But please do not say that I will get bored or lose interest. I have had many millennia to know myself, spending many centuries on introspection." Her tone is firmer on this point, but still respectful. "I know what I want, and what I want is to work with talented people such as yourself, Amy Maka Green, and you, Jawsey."
She's staring directly at you; you have her full attention. Her focus and presence are heady.
"You're absolutely right that things are not perfect. I accept that criticism. We are still in the early days of our enterprise and there are still wrinkles to smooth out.
"But that's why I need you and your talents! That's why I am so grateful Wakȟáŋ Tȟáŋka as it has brought us all together. There is a role here for you to play, if only Iktomi would give you the strength to accept the challenge."
AM takes another sip in the drink and decides to back off a bit. Urubia is unlike other conversations; she almost admires herself for the attempt, but she feels like she is trying to move a mountain.
"I apologize Urubia. You are correct. I cannot even imagine millennia. I do not know if you grew bored with us. I was out of place."
She pauses
"You have me confused. You have all the gangs working for you. You have the Crimson guards - what makes me and Jawsey important enough that you grant us an audience at any time and give us your undivided attention. Can you explain this a bit?"
"I apologize Urubia. You are correct. I cannot even imagine millennia. I do not know if you grew bored with us. I was out of place."
She pauses
"You have me confused. You have all the gangs working for you. You have the Crimson guards - what makes me and Jawsey important enough that you grant us an audience at any time and give us your undivided attention. Can you explain this a bit?"
Bobby and Trouble
"You have not seen what I've seen!" Grinder shouts. He's really amped up now.
"You think you have power but you're still a pup. You're at the start of your journey but if you don't pay attention you'll never actually get anywhere."
Grinder inhales deeply, almost theatrically.
"Can you feel it?" he asks. "The growing mana? The rising tide? It fills you and me, but we are not the only ones. A different world is coming! Things out of time and memory for everyone and everything except..."
He points toward the roof of the Funhouse. Then his arm shoots out in a sweeping gesture to indicate the world outside the windows.
"My selling out will save them! If I succeed, I will save many more than I could ever take. Many more! The scales have been weighed, and mine is not the heavier."
He has a wild look in his eyes. Mentally, he seems a little unhinged. But is it crazy to be an insane man in an insane world?
"You have not seen what I've seen!" Grinder shouts. He's really amped up now.
"You think you have power but you're still a pup. You're at the start of your journey but if you don't pay attention you'll never actually get anywhere."
Grinder inhales deeply, almost theatrically.
"Can you feel it?" he asks. "The growing mana? The rising tide? It fills you and me, but we are not the only ones. A different world is coming! Things out of time and memory for everyone and everything except..."
He points toward the roof of the Funhouse. Then his arm shoots out in a sweeping gesture to indicate the world outside the windows.
"My selling out will save them! If I succeed, I will save many more than I could ever take. Many more! The scales have been weighed, and mine is not the heavier."
He has a wild look in his eyes. Mentally, he seems a little unhinged. But is it crazy to be an insane man in an insane world?
AM and Jawsey
"Because you're remarkable!" Urubia practically roars at AM, as if the answer were obvious. Then she laughs pleasantly.
"You said so yourself, as if I didn't already know. 'Magical and technological capabilities.' Sorcerer, decker, magician, shapeshifter!" Mato is conspicuously off this list. She laughs again, a thrilling trill. "How could the gangs possibly compete?"
Lounging on her chaise, she rests her face on her hand with a warm smile as she considers you affectionately.
"Have you seen Jawsey on astral? Of course you have. But perhaps you do not appreciate how much of an outlier he is, how abnormally beautiful his aura is. You see it every day so you take it for granted. But trust me, as someone who has seen my fair share of auras, it is remarkable."
The compliment is, of course, beguiling. The champagne, the cheese, the attention, the compliments, it all adds up. 'Wined and dined' is an idiom for a reason.
"Because you're remarkable!" Urubia practically roars at AM, as if the answer were obvious. Then she laughs pleasantly.
"You said so yourself, as if I didn't already know. 'Magical and technological capabilities.' Sorcerer, decker, magician, shapeshifter!" Mato is conspicuously off this list. She laughs again, a thrilling trill. "How could the gangs possibly compete?"
Lounging on her chaise, she rests her face on her hand with a warm smile as she considers you affectionately.
"Have you seen Jawsey on astral? Of course you have. But perhaps you do not appreciate how much of an outlier he is, how abnormally beautiful his aura is. You see it every day so you take it for granted. But trust me, as someone who has seen my fair share of auras, it is remarkable."
The compliment is, of course, beguiling. The champagne, the cheese, the attention, the compliments, it all adds up. 'Wined and dined' is an idiom for a reason.
Eh, I always assumed that my aura showed how broken I really am. But if what Urubia says is true, maybe that is why spirits seem to like me?
Jawsey wishes he knew more about history, or political science, or economics or anything useful to the situation. But he doesn't, and he can hardly refute what Urubia is saying. In fact he realizes that he should be taking notes, for what he hopes to help make happen back home. She no doubt has the better understanding of what needs to be done, and AM would likely do well to join her, Bobby too ... other than that they'd be abandoning Mato as effectively as if they'd left him lying on the street.
That inspires him to toss out one last attempt to try to communicate his feelings before accepting defeat "I'm not that sophisticated about such things, I guess to me it was always just like that the interesting bands go out touring. The ones that always play the same place are either only good enough to be a house band where the music is secondary to the drinking, or done with their creative career and just resting on their fame in Vegas or Toronto or somewhere. I guess with a life as long as yours, you've done plenty of 'touring' already." Lest that sound too critical, he adds "Not that you are a band, it is just as close as I know about the topic."
Jawsey wishes he knew more about history, or political science, or economics or anything useful to the situation. But he doesn't, and he can hardly refute what Urubia is saying. In fact he realizes that he should be taking notes, for what he hopes to help make happen back home. She no doubt has the better understanding of what needs to be done, and AM would likely do well to join her, Bobby too ... other than that they'd be abandoning Mato as effectively as if they'd left him lying on the street.
That inspires him to toss out one last attempt to try to communicate his feelings before accepting defeat "I'm not that sophisticated about such things, I guess to me it was always just like that the interesting bands go out touring. The ones that always play the same place are either only good enough to be a house band where the music is secondary to the drinking, or done with their creative career and just resting on their fame in Vegas or Toronto or somewhere. I guess with a life as long as yours, you've done plenty of 'touring' already." Lest that sound too critical, he adds "Not that you are a band, it is just as close as I know about the topic."
AM and Jawsey
"An interesting metaphor," Urubia nods politely. "And perhaps an apt one if the goal is revenue generation. In our case we are less concerned with revenue.
"Richard Coeur de Lion was a beloved king of England, even though he only spent six months of his 10-year reign there. The rest of the time he spent in his lands in France and crusading in the Holy Land. Did the touring benefit his kingdom? Far from it; he used his lands as a piggybank for his wars and nearly bankrupted them by being captured and ransomed for 100,000 pounds of silver, more than the annual income for the English Crown.
"So wanderlust is not necessarily conducive to good rule. We will tour, of course, but in our realm. The Plastic Jungles, Hollywood, The Verge, Bargain Basement, Glow City, The Rat's Nest, and yes, even Touristville. Half a million people over 436 square kilometers. That makes us the densest district in the Sprawl. Even more dense than downtown, with only a fraction of the resources. We have our work cut out for us!"
You can't help but note the repeated use of the word 'we'. Is it the royal 'we' or is she actively assuming that you will join her efforts?
"An interesting metaphor," Urubia nods politely. "And perhaps an apt one if the goal is revenue generation. In our case we are less concerned with revenue.
"Richard Coeur de Lion was a beloved king of England, even though he only spent six months of his 10-year reign there. The rest of the time he spent in his lands in France and crusading in the Holy Land. Did the touring benefit his kingdom? Far from it; he used his lands as a piggybank for his wars and nearly bankrupted them by being captured and ransomed for 100,000 pounds of silver, more than the annual income for the English Crown.
"So wanderlust is not necessarily conducive to good rule. We will tour, of course, but in our realm. The Plastic Jungles, Hollywood, The Verge, Bargain Basement, Glow City, The Rat's Nest, and yes, even Touristville. Half a million people over 436 square kilometers. That makes us the densest district in the Sprawl. Even more dense than downtown, with only a fraction of the resources. We have our work cut out for us!"
You can't help but note the repeated use of the word 'we'. Is it the royal 'we' or is she actively assuming that you will join her efforts?
Trouble moves uncomfortably in the astral, Bobby is in no danger, but he is intrigued with the conversation and wants Bobby to pursue the matter. He does not expose himself as he came with security, but he would if he had any way to communicate with Bobby.
=====
AM is taken by surprise. "Remarkable." She does not feel remarkable, not to the point of getting the attention of a dragon. There are better deckers, and better shamans out there, and while Bobby is remarkably strong, it did not do him any good with the SDF. Keeping polite she says "Oh, you are too kind" which actually implies that she disagrees but does not feel a need to convince a dragon that she is not remarkable. She finishes her Champagne glass with a large gulp, and it takes her time to catch her wits again feeling imposter syndrome kicking in. Which makes everything suddenly feel a bit awkward, everyone that ever complimented her always wanted to get something from her. So her metaphorical spider senses and cynicism are in the red zone. Placing the empty cup on the table, she listens in to the conversation and does not comment.
Could that really be so remarkable? What do they have that Crimson guard does not? what is yet another sorcerer to a dragon? or even a full mage. Why is Urubia placing her time on them if it does not amuse her in some manner?
"From your metaphors, I get that you are preparing for war, is that so?"
=====
AM is taken by surprise. "Remarkable." She does not feel remarkable, not to the point of getting the attention of a dragon. There are better deckers, and better shamans out there, and while Bobby is remarkably strong, it did not do him any good with the SDF. Keeping polite she says "Oh, you are too kind" which actually implies that she disagrees but does not feel a need to convince a dragon that she is not remarkable. She finishes her Champagne glass with a large gulp, and it takes her time to catch her wits again feeling imposter syndrome kicking in. Which makes everything suddenly feel a bit awkward, everyone that ever complimented her always wanted to get something from her. So her metaphorical spider senses and cynicism are in the red zone. Placing the empty cup on the table, she listens in to the conversation and does not comment.
Could that really be so remarkable? What do they have that Crimson guard does not? what is yet another sorcerer to a dragon? or even a full mage. Why is Urubia placing her time on them if it does not amuse her in some manner?
"From your metaphors, I get that you are preparing for war, is that so?"
'Gotcha' Bobby thought.
"Yeah? There is nothing bad about getting allies for a fight.
But since we are talking about an extinction event - and believe me, just because you think I'm an uneducated savage, I am still perfectly aware of what's going on with Magic and Magical Threats - wouldn't a wise dragon help you regardless, without other agendas that could threaten the success of those goals?
But that's not what's happening. The dragons use you and when the time comes they'll hide again like they did before.
No, this is all about control. They just manipulated you with your most prominent lever. You know that is true, otherwise you'd actually be happy with your decision.
And that's the reason my friend got blown up. To control the other gangs, she allowed Nightmare and his goons to take revenge despite the fact it should be against her own fragging rules.
Now think: If she is prepared to undermine her whole endeavor for such petty reasons, what makes you think she won't abandon this whole game once the going gets tough?
Her vision isn't even strong enough to keep a bunch of petty gangers in line.
Can't even say that I hate Big Stank and Nightmare for that. One is so dumb an venal he could run for Congress and the other is literally an embodiment of burning bile and hatred.
You are the one I would have expected to still have a backbone, but instead you are just like them now. And all just for an empty promise from an inhuman lizard."
Bobby took a breath. "Tell me that I'm wrong, I dare you."
"Yeah? There is nothing bad about getting allies for a fight.
But since we are talking about an extinction event - and believe me, just because you think I'm an uneducated savage, I am still perfectly aware of what's going on with Magic and Magical Threats - wouldn't a wise dragon help you regardless, without other agendas that could threaten the success of those goals?
But that's not what's happening. The dragons use you and when the time comes they'll hide again like they did before.
No, this is all about control. They just manipulated you with your most prominent lever. You know that is true, otherwise you'd actually be happy with your decision.
And that's the reason my friend got blown up. To control the other gangs, she allowed Nightmare and his goons to take revenge despite the fact it should be against her own fragging rules.
Now think: If she is prepared to undermine her whole endeavor for such petty reasons, what makes you think she won't abandon this whole game once the going gets tough?
Her vision isn't even strong enough to keep a bunch of petty gangers in line.
Can't even say that I hate Big Stank and Nightmare for that. One is so dumb an venal he could run for Congress and the other is literally an embodiment of burning bile and hatred.
You are the one I would have expected to still have a backbone, but instead you are just like them now. And all just for an empty promise from an inhuman lizard."
Bobby took a breath. "Tell me that I'm wrong, I dare you."
AM and Jawsey
Urubia shrugs a bit casually. "What is war except conflict at a certain scale? And what is life except conflict? The Darwinian competition keeps us in a constant state of strife, such is life.
"But if you're asking if I think of it as war, I do not. If you wish to frame it as such, I would call it a war on chaos, on disorder. A war for hearts and minds, a war to improve the world. For everybody! Even the forces we are fighting against. 'Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do.'" She smiles.
------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
"You do a little evil to do a greater good!" Grinder shouts again. This is the second time he's said it, so either he really believes it or he's running out of other arguments.
He puffs a bit, almost snorting, but it seems to calm him down.
"You're wrong," he says in a calmer, more measured tone, calling Bobby's dare. "You're the cynical one, unwilling to believe in honorable or selfless motives. You're the one who is lost, not me.
"If you believe what I believe, then put your hoop where your mouth is. Your neck is already on the line, whether you like it or not. Your odds of survival are better with us than without us."
Urubia shrugs a bit casually. "What is war except conflict at a certain scale? And what is life except conflict? The Darwinian competition keeps us in a constant state of strife, such is life.
"But if you're asking if I think of it as war, I do not. If you wish to frame it as such, I would call it a war on chaos, on disorder. A war for hearts and minds, a war to improve the world. For everybody! Even the forces we are fighting against. 'Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do.'" She smiles.
------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
"You do a little evil to do a greater good!" Grinder shouts again. This is the second time he's said it, so either he really believes it or he's running out of other arguments.
He puffs a bit, almost snorting, but it seems to calm him down.
"You're wrong," he says in a calmer, more measured tone, calling Bobby's dare. "You're the cynical one, unwilling to believe in honorable or selfless motives. You're the one who is lost, not me.
"If you believe what I believe, then put your hoop where your mouth is. Your neck is already on the line, whether you like it or not. Your odds of survival are better with us than without us."
"The frag they are. If you remember I followed the rules your boss set. No violence, respect territories, seek for mediation.
And what am I getting? Attitude and condescension by a bunch of anglos.
I won't let you drag me down into the same bucket.
The Spiders have the right idea. Last month they took down another Insect spirit out in Puyallup.
Has your circus done anything like that? Hunted any blood mages, exorcised any Shedim?
Let me guess: The time isn't right yet? Your organisation has to consolidate first? Not the time yet to make new enemies? Not yet, not yet, not yet.
Newsflash: The time will never be ripe to do anything more than alibi action for some press photos.
Just remember me, when the penny finally drops at your end. But by then your second in command will be ready to take over from you. Or the gangs will have had an "exchange of talent" to integrate better and round out their capabilities. Consolidate, integrate, assimilate. Better drink your Coolaid now - at least it's still cold.
When I die, it will be as my own man and it won't be quiet.
I've had twenty years of practice to withstand the voice of the Naaldlooshii. I know the worth of promises made by hungry monsters.
But at least you have given me one solid piece of advice: The problem seems to be that no-one cares about Mato, because they don't know about him. I'll have to rectify that."
Bobby replied, cooling down as well.
And what am I getting? Attitude and condescension by a bunch of anglos.
I won't let you drag me down into the same bucket.
The Spiders have the right idea. Last month they took down another Insect spirit out in Puyallup.
Has your circus done anything like that? Hunted any blood mages, exorcised any Shedim?
Let me guess: The time isn't right yet? Your organisation has to consolidate first? Not the time yet to make new enemies? Not yet, not yet, not yet.
Newsflash: The time will never be ripe to do anything more than alibi action for some press photos.
Just remember me, when the penny finally drops at your end. But by then your second in command will be ready to take over from you. Or the gangs will have had an "exchange of talent" to integrate better and round out their capabilities. Consolidate, integrate, assimilate. Better drink your Coolaid now - at least it's still cold.
When I die, it will be as my own man and it won't be quiet.
I've had twenty years of practice to withstand the voice of the Naaldlooshii. I know the worth of promises made by hungry monsters.
But at least you have given me one solid piece of advice: The problem seems to be that no-one cares about Mato, because they don't know about him. I'll have to rectify that."
Bobby replied, cooling down as well.
Bobby and Trouble
"Now it's you expressing your ignorance. Shut your mouth if you don't know what you're talking about. We're taking down toxic shamen in Glow City. Don't believe me? Look it up. You're the investigator, or so you say.
"Yeah, you know all about hungry monsters don't you. I see The Beast inside you. The Hunger, The Violence. You lecture me! Go talk to the man in the mirror."
"Now it's you expressing your ignorance. Shut your mouth if you don't know what you're talking about. We're taking down toxic shamen in Glow City. Don't believe me? Look it up. You're the investigator, or so you say.
"Yeah, you know all about hungry monsters don't you. I see The Beast inside you. The Hunger, The Violence. You lecture me! Go talk to the man in the mirror."
AM pushes the issues "So a night of bonfire? Making so much chaos that the UCAS wants to wall Redmond and cut us lose, none of that has to do anything with you?"
AM and Jawsey
Urubia looks perplexed. "I have no idea what you are talking about," she says. "Were there bonfires one night? A night of chaos?"
She thinks for a moment. "The 40th anniversary of The Night of Rage is Tuesday, two days from now. Is there something planned?"
She doesn't seem to know if AM is talking about something that already happened or something that will happen. Or perhaps she's being artful.
Urubia looks perplexed. "I have no idea what you are talking about," she says. "Were there bonfires one night? A night of chaos?"
She thinks for a moment. "The 40th anniversary of The Night of Rage is Tuesday, two days from now. Is there something planned?"
She doesn't seem to know if AM is talking about something that already happened or something that will happen. Or perhaps she's being artful.
AM responds truthfully "I had a feeling that something in that direction is going on with the Haloweeners." she says uncertainly if Urubia was playing dumb to get her to say more, or if she really did not know about such a plan. In any case, AM decides to just share her thoughts - figuring out that she is not going to get the Dragon to tell her anything anyhow.
She fills another glass of Champagne and returns to her goal from that evening to learn something new. She asks with admiration in her voice. There is something relaxing in knowing that her conversation partner is just so much more experienced than her that it is unlikely that she'll get anything not intended by the dragon to share. "Urubia, if I dare to ask because you are very knowledgeable about the history and classic literature, you did achieve all that in the last sixty or seventy years when the mana levels went high enough Dragons to wake up? Or were you around during the fifth world's history, and just picked up things as they happened.
She fills another glass of Champagne and returns to her goal from that evening to learn something new. She asks with admiration in her voice. There is something relaxing in knowing that her conversation partner is just so much more experienced than her that it is unlikely that she'll get anything not intended by the dragon to share. "Urubia, if I dare to ask because you are very knowledgeable about the history and classic literature, you did achieve all that in the last sixty or seventy years when the mana levels went high enough Dragons to wake up? Or were you around during the fifth world's history, and just picked up things as they happened.
[ Spoiler ]
QUOTE (Tecumseh @ Jan 27 2022, 09:42 PM)
Bobby and Trouble
"Now it's you expressing your ignorance. Shut your mouth if you don't know what you're talking about. We're taking down toxic shamen in Glow City. Don't believe me? Look it up. You're the investigator, or so you say.
"Yeah, you know all about hungry monsters don't you. I see The Beast inside you. The Hunger, The Violence. You lecture me! Go talk to the man in the mirror."
"Now it's you expressing your ignorance. Shut your mouth if you don't know what you're talking about. We're taking down toxic shamen in Glow City. Don't believe me? Look it up. You're the investigator, or so you say.
"Yeah, you know all about hungry monsters don't you. I see The Beast inside you. The Hunger, The Violence. You lecture me! Go talk to the man in the mirror."
"As I said: PR. Toxics are bad, but they aren't the harbingers of doom like blood mages or dark spirits. Still a bounty on toxics too.
I do - everyday. You think I could do my work if I hadn't gotten myself under control? I've spent a month in isolation, faced whatever nature could throw at me and came out better than I was. If I was the monster I wouldn't care so strongly for my friends. Who have you left that you care about, or are there only high minded concepts left?
And yes, I lecture you. Because obviously, no-one else is telling you the truth anymore."
Bobby replied in a cool voice. He was all too aware, that Grinder had quite a few more initiations under his belt than Bobby. But appeal to authority had always been Bobby's least favorite argument.
AM and Jawsey
Urubia smiles... sadly? Apologetically? Ruefully?
"Just the Fourth and Sixth Worlds," she answers. "Although my position has allowed me to speak with some people who survived the Fifth World, and to hear their impressions of things. But my accounts of the Fifth World are second-hand, I'm afraid.
"But even sixty or seventy years is quite a lot of time to learn. Dragons have good memories; we retain what we read. Instant recall, as if the book were right in front of you, or the conversation had just ended.
"There is also psychometry, which can give us a window to the past, but there are others more experienced in it than I. Schwartzkopf, for example.
"But I always preferred to look forward, not backward. Too much deference to the past limits growth, limits evolution, limits possibilities. Let the past die. Kill it, if you have to. That's the only way to become what you are meant to be."
-------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
"They comin'," Grinder says lowly. "There will be plenty to do when the time comes. In the meantime, get ready. I hone my craft on toxic shamen. What about you? Picking fights in the street.
"Go find someone your own size. Then you'll learn; then you'll grow. Pay the price of a worthy goal! Only then can you will build something that endures; something worthy of your potential."
Urubia smiles... sadly? Apologetically? Ruefully?
"Just the Fourth and Sixth Worlds," she answers. "Although my position has allowed me to speak with some people who survived the Fifth World, and to hear their impressions of things. But my accounts of the Fifth World are second-hand, I'm afraid.
"But even sixty or seventy years is quite a lot of time to learn. Dragons have good memories; we retain what we read. Instant recall, as if the book were right in front of you, or the conversation had just ended.
"There is also psychometry, which can give us a window to the past, but there are others more experienced in it than I. Schwartzkopf, for example.
"But I always preferred to look forward, not backward. Too much deference to the past limits growth, limits evolution, limits possibilities. Let the past die. Kill it, if you have to. That's the only way to become what you are meant to be."
-------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
"They comin'," Grinder says lowly. "There will be plenty to do when the time comes. In the meantime, get ready. I hone my craft on toxic shamen. What about you? Picking fights in the street.
"Go find someone your own size. Then you'll learn; then you'll grow. Pay the price of a worthy goal! Only then can you will build something that endures; something worthy of your potential."
Is Urubia really an idealist? Or is she just playing at being one? And which is worse for everyone else? (Jawsey doesn't even consider the possibility that idealism would have a good outcome.) It is wonderful to hear such ideals spoken of, and Urubia is inspiring. It makes him want to believe. But having one power in incontestable control still sounded like a formula for nightmares. Maybe Urubia would be different? A dragon had experience that the AI in the Renraku Archology didn't have, or for that matter the former Tsimshian government.
But maybe he's looking at this all wrong? Instead of thinking of the threat that Urubia poses, maybe he should be thinking of the opportunity that she presents? If she is going to be steady and stable, then she's somewhat predictable, and that can be worked with. Once AM and Urubia have discussed dragon learning, he asks "What does Redmond, or at least your part of Redmond, need that so far it has been difficult to procure? Without a coast it isn't as easy to set up direct deliveries, but there are always those looking to make some nuyen in moving things from A to B, especially when there are barriers between A and D. I'm wondering if might know of anyone who could help set up such business."
But maybe he's looking at this all wrong? Instead of thinking of the threat that Urubia poses, maybe he should be thinking of the opportunity that she presents? If she is going to be steady and stable, then she's somewhat predictable, and that can be worked with. Once AM and Urubia have discussed dragon learning, he asks "What does Redmond, or at least your part of Redmond, need that so far it has been difficult to procure? Without a coast it isn't as easy to set up direct deliveries, but there are always those looking to make some nuyen in moving things from A to B, especially when there are barriers between A and D. I'm wondering if might know of anyone who could help set up such business."
Schwartzkopf is perhaps the most challenging but interesting read. Difficult because he claims that one does not need faith to practice Shamanism and that some of the things AM has learned are wrong. Interesting, because by understanding his critique, she was able to push over her limitations and create Trouble. Progress lies not within traditional Shamanism but by understanding it entirely and knowing when some rules can be amended a little bit. So her eyes lit with admiration when Urubia mentions Schwartzkopf. She imagines the life she can have aside from such an exciting and perhaps dangerous person for a moment.
When Jawsey asks about Redmond, she regains her wits and thinks, "Also, out of all places, what brings you specifically to Redmond? "
When Jawsey asks about Redmond, she regains her wits and thinks, "Also, out of all places, what brings you specifically to Redmond? "
"I haven't picked fights in a while. It's usually assholes trying to throw their weight around that come to me. But yeah, I'll take you up on that. I've got already a good idea where to hone my craft.
But do you know how you best deal with an apocalypse? You prevent it from happening or at least slow it down by taking out those who work actively on accelerating the schedule. You don't win battles from the defensive."
Bobby took the final steps towards the door and opened it to leave.
But do you know how you best deal with an apocalypse? You prevent it from happening or at least slow it down by taking out those who work actively on accelerating the schedule. You don't win battles from the defensive."
Bobby took the final steps towards the door and opened it to leave.
AM and Jawsey
"Availability isn't the issue," Urubia tells Jawsey. "It's scale. And, of course, resources. I have enough to support 500, certainly. 5,000? Sure. But 500,000?" She raises her eyebrows.
"Half a million, most of them SINless and not traditionally employed." This is diplomatic. "Civil engineering and infrastructure that mostly hasn't been touched since the Crash of '29 - speaking of anniversaries, the 50th anniversary of which is Wednesday. Things that the rest of Seattle takes for granted aren't a given in Redmond: electricity, Matrix, garbage, recycling, sewer. There's almost a complete void of civil services, likes schools, hospitals, clinics. Emergency response systems are improvised and largely on a volunteer or even for-profit basis.
"How do you stand all these things up? How does order emerge from chaos? The good news is that it's been done before, and so can be done again. But that's why I say we have our work cut out for us. That's why I need remarkable people with talents like yours. I need your help to make a better world."
But why Redmond?
"This is where I am needed," she answers. "I have ties to the area from the Fourth World. Downtown doesn't need me. Bellevue doesn't need me. It could have been Puyallup, I suppose, but you have to remember that Puyallup was basically rural farmland and pastures prior to the Treaty of Denver and the influx of refugees who turned it into a favela. There's nothing like this in Puyallup." She gestures to the Funhouse, and the other four apartment buildings that make up the complex. "So in Puyallup you're really starting from scratch."
You get the sense that this answer might not be fully complete, but that could just be the challenge of trying to summarize a broad question in just a minute rather than an hour.
"But enough about me. I want to hear more about you! Tell me about..."
The conversation continues pleasantly as Bobby wraps up his meeting with Grinder.
------------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
"Don't do something stupid," Grinder says as Bobby moves to leave. "It's over if you have the strength to let it be over. Don't scratch the scab; it's healing.
"You say you're in control? Prove it. Just walk away. Don't do a greater evil to accomplish a little good."
"Availability isn't the issue," Urubia tells Jawsey. "It's scale. And, of course, resources. I have enough to support 500, certainly. 5,000? Sure. But 500,000?" She raises her eyebrows.
"Half a million, most of them SINless and not traditionally employed." This is diplomatic. "Civil engineering and infrastructure that mostly hasn't been touched since the Crash of '29 - speaking of anniversaries, the 50th anniversary of which is Wednesday. Things that the rest of Seattle takes for granted aren't a given in Redmond: electricity, Matrix, garbage, recycling, sewer. There's almost a complete void of civil services, likes schools, hospitals, clinics. Emergency response systems are improvised and largely on a volunteer or even for-profit basis.
"How do you stand all these things up? How does order emerge from chaos? The good news is that it's been done before, and so can be done again. But that's why I say we have our work cut out for us. That's why I need remarkable people with talents like yours. I need your help to make a better world."
But why Redmond?
"This is where I am needed," she answers. "I have ties to the area from the Fourth World. Downtown doesn't need me. Bellevue doesn't need me. It could have been Puyallup, I suppose, but you have to remember that Puyallup was basically rural farmland and pastures prior to the Treaty of Denver and the influx of refugees who turned it into a favela. There's nothing like this in Puyallup." She gestures to the Funhouse, and the other four apartment buildings that make up the complex. "So in Puyallup you're really starting from scratch."
You get the sense that this answer might not be fully complete, but that could just be the challenge of trying to summarize a broad question in just a minute rather than an hour.
"But enough about me. I want to hear more about you! Tell me about..."
The conversation continues pleasantly as Bobby wraps up his meeting with Grinder.
------------------------------------------------------
Bobby and Trouble
"Don't do something stupid," Grinder says as Bobby moves to leave. "It's over if you have the strength to let it be over. Don't scratch the scab; it's healing.
"You say you're in control? Prove it. Just walk away. Don't do a greater evil to accomplish a little good."
"Yeah, yeah, it's over, gotcha. At least until your committee convenes again for a vote and tell their obedient little terrier to set up another bag of burning shit. For the greater good.
You can't even explain the reason behind the first one. Your word is worth drek."
Bobby spat the words with as much venom as he could muster.
"If the end justifies your means, those means justify your end."
You can't even explain the reason behind the first one. Your word is worth drek."
Bobby spat the words with as much venom as he could muster.
"If the end justifies your means, those means justify your end."
"There's a difference between 'can't' and 'won't'.
"Don't start a war you can't win. You got your warning shot. The next one's not-so-nice.
"Even the dumbest dog knows not to die. Do you?"
"Don't start a war you can't win. You got your warning shot. The next one's not-so-nice.
"Even the dumbest dog knows not to die. Do you?"
After spending some time Smalltalk, AM decides that she wants to leave and join Bobby.
At this point, AM knows that she wants nothing to do with Urubia. She does not feel connected to Redmond, and as she respects anyone doing anything new, she does not wish Redmond changed. If any, she wishes that the other parts of town would feel the chaos too. She hoped to come to Urubia and understand how she could convince the Haloweeners that she admired to play ball with such a boring plan. She is also at a loss as to why Urubia needs them and in what sense they are talented. Yet, she does not feel the need to try and get clarification. Perhaps "Join me" is not an offer but a way to not apologize for sending the bomb—a conversation trick to force them out of their balance.
"Urubia, I admire how you are attached to this wasteland. I respect your goal, and I pray it aligns well with Iktomi's grand plan. I thank you greatly for the hospitality, and as it saddens me to leave your presence, I have more urgent things to attend to."
With that she stood up, and headed out.
At this point, AM knows that she wants nothing to do with Urubia. She does not feel connected to Redmond, and as she respects anyone doing anything new, she does not wish Redmond changed. If any, she wishes that the other parts of town would feel the chaos too. She hoped to come to Urubia and understand how she could convince the Haloweeners that she admired to play ball with such a boring plan. She is also at a loss as to why Urubia needs them and in what sense they are talented. Yet, she does not feel the need to try and get clarification. Perhaps "Join me" is not an offer but a way to not apologize for sending the bomb—a conversation trick to force them out of their balance.
"Urubia, I admire how you are attached to this wasteland. I respect your goal, and I pray it aligns well with Iktomi's grand plan. I thank you greatly for the hospitality, and as it saddens me to leave your presence, I have more urgent things to attend to."
With that she stood up, and headed out.
"I heard you loud and clear. And I won't start a war that I can't win. But you can consider our working relationship over."
Bobby said while he walked out of the door.
Immediately after the door closed, he called the team: <<I'm done with Grinder. Neitehr confirm nor denied Nightmares involvement. Adamant about not telling why they wanted to send us a warning bomb, which means the reason was either embarrasingly stupid or the uncertainty is part of the punishment. They are trying to turn us into a battered spouse it seems. Either way, frag em.
I'm going to wait down by the car for you. Provided they didn't slit our tires or something. By the way, we probably should look for trackers etc. once we are clear from this place.>>
Bobby headed back to the elevator, noting distances on GPS over his commlink. He wanted to be able find Grinder's room again...
Bobby said while he walked out of the door.
Immediately after the door closed, he called the team: <<I'm done with Grinder. Neitehr confirm nor denied Nightmares involvement. Adamant about not telling why they wanted to send us a warning bomb, which means the reason was either embarrasingly stupid or the uncertainty is part of the punishment. They are trying to turn us into a battered spouse it seems. Either way, frag em.
I'm going to wait down by the car for you. Provided they didn't slit our tires or something. By the way, we probably should look for trackers etc. once we are clear from this place.>>
Bobby headed back to the elevator, noting distances on GPS over his commlink. He wanted to be able find Grinder's room again...
Jawsey bowed to Urubia, took a last look at her aura, and said "Thank you for your time and attention. I learn so much each time that I meet you.". Then he accompanied AM towards their car.
AM would speak once in the car she asks Bobby "So Grinder would not share who wants to bomb us and why? Did he say anything else of use? Perhaps why he joined Urubia in the first place? or what use are the Nukes in Urubia's plan? "
When it is her turn to share she'll speak her mind about Urubia.
"Urubia is interesting, but I am still confused as to what she wants from us, why she thinks we are remarkable - and what is she offering. When I mentioned the bomb she suggested we go live in the Funhouse where it is safe because there is a dragon protecting the building. Not the emotional response I would expect a person to have, which is strange a bit considering she walks around in human form, has read our history and literature, and quotes Shakespeare like Carn-evil. She knows about the human heritage more than any of us but I don't think she understands what it is to be human.
Andrew would have known how to react if I told him there was a bomb at my place, and he would have been supportive even if he was the one sending it. He knows when to be soft and when to be rough. Urubia is another thing entirely, she tries to behave empathetically but she tries too hard, which makes me uncomfortable around her as if it is all a sham. I mean, she acted like my mundane mother would act had we told her about the bomb. She tried to physically make sure we are okay when our auras have told her everything about our emotional and physical condition before we said the first word. So failing so miserably at imitating compassion, leads me to believe that it does not come naturally for her to play human. Kind of like I am not sure I behave like a real cat when Bobby turns me into one. I'd assume that with enough practice, and if her psych is similar in some fashion to our own then she would get it and would be able to fool us. So I think she is very different than us.
She thinks she is saving us when the governments and cooperations have failed us. She knows how many people live in Redmond, and mentions roads, schools, and plenty of things that I had to remind myself that I am not seating in Mayor's Sonya's office but with the Dragon leader of Redmond. Somehow, I do not think that she got the gangs playing ball by speaking about schools and roads, but I do not think she was faking regarding this. I think she genuinely plans to have better infrastructure, and schools in Redmond I see no reason to make up this stuff.
She wants Redmond to be in order. All in all, I am still uncertain what she wants from us. Yet, I think she collects power and awakened. So, I'd assume she wants to be more of a dictator than a president. If she wants to own all the talent and power in Redmond, and I suspect it means that if we want to stay in Redmond we would be working for her. I am not sure she would tolerate us independently indefinitely. Perhaps the bomb was the stick, and the stories about making Redmond a good place to live were the carrot.
I admire how much time Urubia has for foreplay but even immortal dragons would eventually get to business and make an offer. Not sure how easy it would be to refuse it when it comes. Perhaps she is waiting for us to make up such a mess that we need her to save us, which she would happily do if we join her. Carn-evil may be the one sending the bomb, but Urubia could have stopped it if she wanted. We do know that the Funhouse was like one of his first stops after meeting us. "
Then AM would drive and when far enough from the Fun-house she'll say "I want to talk to Carn-evil.". She would stop the car at the side of the road and inspect it for silently running matrix devices, and for any attempt to tamper with it. It would be several minutes before she has the confidence to move on, and even then she would suggest they use the other car for the rest of the night.
When it is her turn to share she'll speak her mind about Urubia.
"Urubia is interesting, but I am still confused as to what she wants from us, why she thinks we are remarkable - and what is she offering. When I mentioned the bomb she suggested we go live in the Funhouse where it is safe because there is a dragon protecting the building. Not the emotional response I would expect a person to have, which is strange a bit considering she walks around in human form, has read our history and literature, and quotes Shakespeare like Carn-evil. She knows about the human heritage more than any of us but I don't think she understands what it is to be human.
Andrew would have known how to react if I told him there was a bomb at my place, and he would have been supportive even if he was the one sending it. He knows when to be soft and when to be rough. Urubia is another thing entirely, she tries to behave empathetically but she tries too hard, which makes me uncomfortable around her as if it is all a sham. I mean, she acted like my mundane mother would act had we told her about the bomb. She tried to physically make sure we are okay when our auras have told her everything about our emotional and physical condition before we said the first word. So failing so miserably at imitating compassion, leads me to believe that it does not come naturally for her to play human. Kind of like I am not sure I behave like a real cat when Bobby turns me into one. I'd assume that with enough practice, and if her psych is similar in some fashion to our own then she would get it and would be able to fool us. So I think she is very different than us.
She thinks she is saving us when the governments and cooperations have failed us. She knows how many people live in Redmond, and mentions roads, schools, and plenty of things that I had to remind myself that I am not seating in Mayor's Sonya's office but with the Dragon leader of Redmond. Somehow, I do not think that she got the gangs playing ball by speaking about schools and roads, but I do not think she was faking regarding this. I think she genuinely plans to have better infrastructure, and schools in Redmond I see no reason to make up this stuff.
She wants Redmond to be in order. All in all, I am still uncertain what she wants from us. Yet, I think she collects power and awakened. So, I'd assume she wants to be more of a dictator than a president. If she wants to own all the talent and power in Redmond, and I suspect it means that if we want to stay in Redmond we would be working for her. I am not sure she would tolerate us independently indefinitely. Perhaps the bomb was the stick, and the stories about making Redmond a good place to live were the carrot.
I admire how much time Urubia has for foreplay but even immortal dragons would eventually get to business and make an offer. Not sure how easy it would be to refuse it when it comes. Perhaps she is waiting for us to make up such a mess that we need her to save us, which she would happily do if we join her. Carn-evil may be the one sending the bomb, but Urubia could have stopped it if she wanted. We do know that the Funhouse was like one of his first stops after meeting us. "
Then AM would drive and when far enough from the Fun-house she'll say "I want to talk to Carn-evil.". She would stop the car at the side of the road and inspect it for silently running matrix devices, and for any attempt to tamper with it. It would be several minutes before she has the confidence to move on, and even then she would suggest they use the other car for the rest of the night.
Bobby laid out the conversation with Grinder, as best as he remembered, nodding along to AM's telling of her impressions:
"Everyone assumes, Urubia is some kind of benefactor. But to my mind, she is just another power broker. The major and that other dragon or drake oppose her. It's us and the other little people who are ground up in that struggle. Everything she does is just another measured means to an end.
Grinder joined because she promised him to help prepare against the apocalypse caused by blood magic use. But for some reason he fights against toxics now. You know what's the difference? Blood magic damages the astral barriers, but toxic mages lower property values in the here and now and make it harder to develop new projects.
But that's neither here, nor there. I agree that we should talk to Carn-Evil next. Do you have a current ping on his link?"
"Everyone assumes, Urubia is some kind of benefactor. But to my mind, she is just another power broker. The major and that other dragon or drake oppose her. It's us and the other little people who are ground up in that struggle. Everything she does is just another measured means to an end.
Grinder joined because she promised him to help prepare against the apocalypse caused by blood magic use. But for some reason he fights against toxics now. You know what's the difference? Blood magic damages the astral barriers, but toxic mages lower property values in the here and now and make it harder to develop new projects.
But that's neither here, nor there. I agree that we should talk to Carn-Evil next. Do you have a current ping on his link?"
With all her Crimson guards, I don't think that Urubia needs Grinder to kill a toxic mage even if she does not want her claws dirty. I do not believe in altruism, so we see Urubia in the same light she is one of the players in Redmond. She is just more powerful and ambitious than the rest. Notice that she speaks to Grinder about Blood magic, and to us about roads and schools. I'd guess that she just does not understand us well enough to give us the right speech so that we make our dragon deal.
She seems pensive for a minute "I have his link number, I was thinking we can just call him. I can trace him but I suspect that in this case it might be too predictable and lead us into a trap. I don't like to be predictable, are you game in just calling him and seeing if he picks up? If you want I can even make it appear as if one of the other gang members is calling him, or we can just go to their bar and ask for him. A show of force without tipping the information we already have on him. "
She seems pensive for a minute "I have his link number, I was thinking we can just call him. I can trace him but I suspect that in this case it might be too predictable and lead us into a trap. I don't like to be predictable, are you game in just calling him and seeing if he picks up? If you want I can even make it appear as if one of the other gang members is calling him, or we can just go to their bar and ask for him. A show of force without tipping the information we already have on him. "
[ Spoiler ]
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