“You know for someone who supposedly ran in the streets for the better part of his adult life thus far you have a remarkable work ethic.”

Cathy’s matter-of-fact remark momentarily disrupts your focus and reminds you of your surroundings. After rescuing the AU diplomat’s kid you and her returned to the SCU offices. You wanted to get a jumpstart on whatever paperwork was waiting for you instead of leaving it until Monday. Of course, given that you only just came on-board today, you didn’t exactly have a desk or office of your own to work in. So instead you ended up here in a spare command center. Cathy seemed content to tag along and do some work of her own. Though you have a hunch that part of the reason she’s here is because you’ll have to go to one of her safe houses when you finish.

“If I let this all sit until Monday and something comes up then I’ll fall behind,” you reply as you scan the latest form for any mistakes. “And once you start playing catch-up it never stops.”

Cathy closes her eyes and nods sagely. “Perhaps. Though I don’t think anyone would fault you for it. You don’t exactly have the luxury of multitasking in the way the rest of us can.”

> cont

>>40058843

It’s true. While you’re stuck using a keyboard and pen and paper she’s currently utilizing a direct line from the back of her neck. And even that you suspect isn’t entirely necessary.

“You’re not wrong. Having even a basic brain interface would make this so much easier. But then I wouldn’t be as useful to you all anymore.”

“Hm. Everyone’s useful in some capacity, even if they don’t realize it themselves.”

Silence falls once more as you both return to your respective work. Still, you could use a distraction or something to keep you semi-grounded. It’s getting rather late and you’ve been at this for a couple hours now. Combined with today’s earlier activities and you’re liable to nod off in the middle of filling out a form at this rate.

> [1] Try starting up some small talk.
> [2] Keep on working in silence for now
> [3] Find the nearest stopping point and break for the evening
> [4] Write in

>>40058858
>> [1] Try starting up some small talk.

>>40058858
>[1] Try starting up some small talk.
How often do you get called to work on a sunday?

>>40058858
> [1] Try starting up some small talk.

[1] it is. Though what will you bring up first?

> [1] Ask what she's working on
> [2] Ask why she's the only SCU member in a prosthetic like that
> [3] Ask how often the SCU gets called in on average
> [4] See if she'll continue her earlier train of thought about Aria
> [5] Write in

>>40059069
> [1] Ask what she's working on

>>40059069
>[3] Ask how often the SCU gets called in on average

>>40059069
>> [3] Ask how often the SCU gets called in on average
> [1] Ask what she's working on

>>40058858
“Hm. Everyone’s useful in some capacity, even if they don’t realize it themselves.”
>"y'know in most stories saying something that philosophical could be considered a death flag."

Mkay. Writing...

>>40058858

Small talk never hurt anyone. Well, except Frank. But really it was his fault for thinking the middle of heist was the perfect time to loudly begin debating the merits of using paper over plastic. He learned his lesson in short order via sentry turret barrage to the face. You’re pretty sure Cathy doesn’t mind you asking questions, nor that she has a turret hidden away somewhere.

“So how often does the SCU actually get called in?” you ask as you start on another form. “I get that we’re specialized but that little tidbit hasn’t really been covered yet.”

Cathy’s quick to reply, “It really depends on what’s going on in Ocrania. That and whether the Chief’s been asked directly by the powers that be to have us intervene. She does a fair amount of poking and prodding on that front so we get a run out fairly often, but there are periods where we have significant downtime.”

“Makes sense. No need to have Tank Killers running around if the normal PD can handle it.”

She opens one of her eyes and smirks at you. “You’d still be surprised.”

You pause midway through a report on the state of the small drug gang you busted earlier. “So what are you working on anyways?”

“Same as you, more or less. Something about the raid and the subsequent cleanup is bothering me.”

“Oh?”

Now with both of her eyes open, Cathy crosses her arms in front of her. “For a group of that size it was too easy to track them down. It was almost like we were being directed and fed information. Plus… well, it’d be easier to show you.”

>cont

>>40059686

She extends a hand and flicks one of her claws at the massive screen on the opposite wall. It blinks to life and displays several pictures of the warehouse you were in earlier.

“See there? Among the piles of product?”

You stare at it for a moment, not really sure what to look for. “I’m not seeing it.”

The picture zooms in on a pile of empty containers. You can now see they’re standard coffee tins sporting the label of a rather prominent and well known store chain.

She doesn’t sound at all thrilled about her precious coffee being associated with such an illicit activity. “They were moving their drugs around by disguising it as coffee. The bastards.”

> [1] You don’t think that job that Taras had for me is related, do you?
> [2] What do you mean “directed?”
> [3] Eh, maybe we just got lucky. Besides, hiding it that way is pretty smart.
> [4] Write in

>>40059703
> [1] You don’t think that job that Taras had for me is related, do you?
> [2] What do you mean “directed?”

>>40059703
> [1] You don’t think that job that Taras had for me is related, do you?
> [2] What do you mean “directed?”

sry was busy trying to not get killed by my cat

I'll combine [1] and [2] then. Writing...

>>40059902
was the pussy being pissy?

>>40059703
> [1] You don’t think that job that Taras had for me is related, do you?
> [2] What do you mean “directed?”
> [4] Noticed your coffee tasting different recently?

>>40059703

You’re guessing she’s already explored the Taras angle but it couldn’t hurt to bring it up. “So you think whatever that lancer job was that Taras had for me might have been related?”

She shrugs. “It’s hard to say. It certainly wouldn’t surprise me if that turned out to be the case. But there’s no real footage or record of that group outside of what Mariet found earlier. So it’s impossible to tell whether they were merely picking up coffee or actually acting as drug couriers.”

“We could always go ask around the places they visit,” you put forth. “Or I could try bothering Taras some more.”

“The former is something I’ll have Sergio and Cetus do tomorrow. The latter I’ll let you handle.”

“Wait, I thought we were off tomorrow?”

Her eyes close once more as the main screen shuts off. “You and I specifically are. Your schedule is more or less matched to mine until Aria gives up on you. Or until she’s been brought to justice.”

“Ah…” After a few minutes of silence and more work you ask, “What did you mean by ‘directed’ by the way?”

Cathy lets out a annoyed huff. “Like I said - it was too easy. Normally we have to spend a good amount of time in general combing through the sheer amount of information available to us to find a lead. But this time it took all of fifteen minutes. There’s a difference between being lucky and being someone else’s puppet.”

Again she doesn’t seem overjoyed at the notion. Maybe you should change the subject or let things sit until you’re done.

> [1] Make a jab about her coffee and whether it’s tasted alright recently
> [2] Ask if you’re holding her up by working late
> [3] Wonder aloud how long Aria might be after you
> [4] Power through the rest of your work

>>40060199
> [1] Make a jab about her coffee and whether it’s tasted alright recently
> [2] Ask if you’re holding her up by working late
then
> [4] Power through the rest of your work

>>40060199
> [1] Make a jab about her coffee and whether it’s tasted alright recently
> [2] Ask if you’re holding her up by working late
then
> [4] Power through the rest of your work

>>40060199
> [1] Make a jab about her coffee and whether it’s tasted alright recently
> [2] Ask if you’re holding her up by working late
then
> [4] Power through the rest of your work

>>40060199
>> [1] Make a jab about her coffee and whether it’s tasted alright recently
>> [2] Ask if you’re holding her up by working late
>> [3] Wonder aloud how long Aria might be after you

Mkay then. Back in a bit...

>>40060199

Humor’s always a good way to diffuse a situation. So you try and improve your bodyguard’s mood. “Look on the bright side: your coffee hasn’t tasted weird lately, right? So at least you know the sanctity of your stash is intact.”

Cathy grumbles noncommittally, but you do catch a momentary lip bite. Something, at least.

Very much aware of the stack of paper still left before you you ask one final thing of her, “I’m not keeping you from something by working late, am I?”

“No,” she replies. “Not at all. The only thing you’re keeping me from is my cat and I’m fairly confident he’s capable of taking care of himself.”

“Cool.”

You resist the urge to ask about her cat for now and power through the rest of the pile in front of you. An hour and a half later you finally finish the last form with a flourish.

“All done?” asks Cathy.

You nod as you stand, yawning and stretching along the way. As you do your leg cramps for a moment and causes you to wince. “Yeah. I guess it’s time to go off to the safe house then.”

The line connecting Cathy to the terminal nearest her pops off and whizzes back out of sight. She unfurls herself and puts forth, “Well if you’re not entirely dead to the world we can swing by somewhere and grab a bite to eat. Up to you.”

“When you say ‘swing,’ you don’t mean it literally, do you?”

You just get a smile back that says “maybe.”

> [1] Sleep is amazing
> [2] Sure why not. You could go for some food.
> [3] Why just food? You have no idea what’s actually in this district but they have to have bars here.
> [4] Write in

>>40060706
> [2] Sure why not. You could go for some food.

Ah I remember swinging, it was fun before I got shot.

>>40060706
>> [2] Sure why not. You could go for some food.

>>40060706
> [2] Sure why not. You could go for some food.

>>40060706
>[2] Sure why not. You could go for some food.

[2] it is. Writing...

>>40060706

Well you suppose worst case you’ll just be “treated” to the experience of being living luggage like before when you and her dropped out of the transport. It won’t kill you. For now.

“Did you have anywhere specific in mind?” you inquire.

Cathy taps her chin in thought. “Given that I’m now rather suspicious of my usual cafés being fronts my selection is limited. Especially since whatever I choose has to accommodate you as well.”

It takes you a moment to figure out what she means. Most Cyborgs have to eat specialized meals or have tastes that are wildly different than the norm. So while a normal human could eat their food it won’t necessarily taste good at all.

“I don’t suppose there’s a pizza place or something simple,” you wonder aloud.

She points and nods at you. “That there is. And the bonus of going there is we don’t have to eat in. As safe as you are around me we do need to limit your public exposure for the time being.”

“Makes sense. But how are we getting there?”

She simply stares at you. Oh. OH. Welp.

> [1] Resign yourself to being slung under her arm again
> [2] Ask if there’s any way you could ride on her back
> [3] “Couldn’t we just walk like normal people?”
> [4] Write in

>>40061128
>> [2] Ask if there’s any way you could ride on her back
Less painful for me.

>>40061128
> [3] “Couldn’t we just walk like normal people?”
I gotta head to work now, thanks for running ELH

>>40061128
>[1] Resign yourself to being slung under her arm again

>>40061128
>> [1] Resign yourself to being slung under her arm again
"Just keep a tight grip alright."

>>40061128
>2

>>40061128

>[2] Ask if there’s any way you could ride on her back

If this is going to become our main form of transport we need to figure this out sooner rather than later.

I believe [2] has it by a vote.

So let's do a roll to see how suave you are at handling the question.

4 anons, 1d6.

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>40061355
inb4 4 1s

Rolled 6 (1d6)

>>40061355

Rolled 1 (1d6)

>>40061355

Rolled 1 (1d6)

>>40061355

Rolled 2 (1d6)

>>40061355
Fucking captcha work with me here.

>>40061375
>>40061379
>>40061391
>>40061420

> Another 9 to start the rolls off

Tzeentch pls.

Writing...

>>40061391
>>40061420
So close.

>>40061438
>Tzeentch pls.

I don't know if others see humor in this, but I do.

>>40061438
>In the highly likely event that the Dice Gods are assholes you have the option of making a single roll result a 9. Most of the time this means an automatic success but it will come with a caveat of sorts in the narrative. It also can only be used every other session.

>>40061128

Today’s been a good day. You’ve been pretty lucky thus far. Why not push it a little? You’ll still have to be delicate about how you ask to ride on her back though, given how Sako teased her and how she reacted earlier today.

“Hey, Cathy,” you begin.

“Hrm?”

You tap your leg for emphasis. “Any chance you’d let me ride this time? It’d be a lot less painful and easier on me that way. If it helps I promise not to be handsy.”

She stares at you for a good minute, occasionally glancing at your leg. Finally she remarks, “Being handsy isn’t the problem. The problem is that I don’t like feeling like a beast of burden. I’m not used to having someone back there so it throws off my usual acrobatics more than, say, having them slung under an arm.”

Ah. “Well if it makes you feel any better,” you reply. “You’re definitely not a glorified horse. I don’t think many of them are capable of tearing man, cyborg, and tank apart with ease. If anything I’d be honored to ride back there. Hell, I’m more afraid of grabbing the wrong thing and pissing you off in the process. I like being alive, thank you very much.”

Cathy glances behind her torso at her abdomen. “Clearly you’ve never met a really pissed off horse before. And as I said, I really don’t mind if you have to get all snuggly to stay on. It’s just…”

You shake your head, resigning yourself. It was worth a shot. “Don’t worry about it then. Just give me some warning this time before you grab me.”

“That I can do.”

From there the two of you leave the command center behind and head to the elevator. Instead of heading to the ground floor, however, Cathy takes you to the roof. This time there’s no transport waiting for you though. Instead she leads you to the edge. It might be your imagination but she seems to be debating something based on how lined her face is.

“So where do we go from h-”

>cont

>>40061955

As before when she grabs you there’s no warning. However you find yourself deposited on her back rather than slung under an arm. Before you can do more than wrap your arms around her waist she leaps off the roof and begins plummeting to the ground. Were it not for the additional grip on your legs provided by her pedipalps you’d likely be fluttering behind her like a cape. Instead it’s like riding a glorified motorcycle. One streaking towards Meridian at terminal velocity.

About halfway down the OBI building Cathy begins to emit the organic steel webbing she used before. Using them she manages to swing you both onto the rooftop of a nearby building. Without pause she continues to stride across it to leap to the next. In this fashion she takes you on a rather strange and fast-paced high-rise parkour tour in a way that only she could. Looking down all you see are the occasional rooftop or glimpse of blurred street lights below. It’s only once you’ve reached the supposed pizza joint that she comes to a stop. Once there her pedipalp’s grip on your legs loosens. Thankfully, your lame one doesn’t protest.

“And here we are,” she says as she reaches behind herself and plucks you up off of her abdomen. She deposits you down on the middle of the roof and walks over to the edge. “You want anything special on your half? I should have ordered ahead but…”

“You were distracted,” you finish for her. “And just pepperoni is fine.”

Cathy blushes slightly, nods, then disappears over the edge. When you go to look you see you’re at least ten stories up. You’re only just able to make out your spider bodyguard walking into a store across a four lane street. For the moment, you’re alone.

> [1] Wait patiently
> [2] You’ve got time - why not ring up Taras and follow that lead?
> [3] Maybe now is a good time to ask for advice about Cathy from another SCU member
> [4] Write in

>>40061983
> [2] You’ve got time - why not ring up Taras and follow that lead?

>>40061983
>[2] You’ve got time - why not ring up Taras and follow that lead?

>>40061983
>[2] You’ve got time - why not ring up Taras and follow that lead?

Lets be extra useful

>>40061983
>> [2] You’ve got time - why not ring up Taras and follow that lead?
we a good boy.

>>40062071
>we a good boy.

Go home Will, you're drunk.

This is grown man shadowrunner in the science quest.

[2] it is. Back in a bit...

GG Google. That wasn't a pizza.

>>40062178
It can't be shadowrun, we aren't being stupidly paranoid and coming up with a way to kill everyone we meet

>>40062071
>>40062042
>>40062178
Stupid 4chan, eating my posts, stealing my memes.

I'm over here making DBZHQ and M2030Q Refences and it eats the middle portion and ruins it.

>>40061983

The way you see it you have at least a few minutes before Cathy returns with pizza in hand, even with today’s advances in cooking technology. You might as well do something semi-useful to pass the time and to keep yourself awake.

Getting a hold of Taras has never been an easy affair though. The first number you try turns up dead and disconnected. “Jim” also isn’t in at the Jazz bar he tends to hang out at. You’re almost ready to give up and hope he’ll reply to an email when you finally get a tip on his new number from an acquaintance of an acquaintance. This time Taras answers.

“Yeah?” A gruff greeting devoid of any identifying information. As usual.

“I’ve got a question or two for you,” you shoot back, equally leaving out anything that would signify it’s you.

You hear him cough and begin arguing with someone in the background. Then after a moment he asks, “This isn’t the best time.”

That’s slightly odd. Even when he’s out and about or being “social” he always has had time to schmooze and gossip.

> [1] You’ll be quick. It’s just the one question about the lancer job anyways
> [2] Apologize and ask him to call you back ASAP
> [3] Ask what the hell he’s up to
> [4] Write in

>>40062420
>[2] Apologize and ask him to call you back ASAP
Ask the SCU to trace his new numbers location asap.

>>40062420
>>40062420
> [2] Apologize and ask him to call you back ASAP
Call up our techie see if she can locate him.

>>40062420
>> [2] Apologize and ask him to call you back ASAP

>>40062420
> [2] Apologize and ask him to call you back ASAP

>>40062420
>> [2] Apologize and ask him to call you back ASAP
>>40062462
>>40062474
Yeah let's hand his new number off to them, see if we can't trace it

>>40062420

“Sorry. Can you give me a shout back when you’re free then? It’s important.”

“Sure.”

And then the line goes dead. Something’s definitely off, or so you feel. It might be best to have Mariet try and trace the number to track him down like she did earlier today. When you go to pull out the data slate that keeps you connected to the SCU comms, though, you notice that every name on the member list is red or orange except for Cathy and Sako’s. Mariet’s in particular is orange.

> [1] Sako’s not your first choice but he’ll do
> [2] Try Mariet anyways
> [3] Go for Cathy

>>40062673
>[2] Try Mariet anyways

>>40062673
>[3] Go for Cathy

>>40062673
> [2] Try Mariet anyways
if no go
> [3] Go for Cathy

>>40062673
>> [2] Try Mariet anyways

>>40062673
>> [3] Go for Cathy
We just need to get her to hand the number off to mariet when she can

What do the colours mean?

>>40062740

We have no idea. Before they were all green. But my guess is they're like IM statuses. Red's definitely not available. Orange might be just away or something.

[2] has it by a vote I think. Writing...

>>40062673

You’re guessing that the colors are much like many instant messaging clients - you won’t be able to reach anyone in red but you might be able to get someone colored orange. So you press Mariet’s name and wait to see what happens. At first you just get a rather plain ringing sound. You’re almost ready to give up after the seventh ring when Mariet finally replies:

## Mrpmh… whaddya want? I’m in the middle of a raid. Not that it matters since people keep standing in the fucking fire. ##

You’re not sure whether she sounds more agitated or more tired. But it’s SCU-related so you hope you’ll be fine. “I need you to trace a number for me. It’s Taras’ new one and he’s acting odd. Odd for him, anyways.”

Mariet grumbles after taking down the new number, ## Couldn’t you have waited? Like another hour? Because… GOD DAMN IT ANAFELLE STOP STANDING IN THE FIRE. Sorry. Looking it up now. ##

“You don’t need…”

## No it’s fine. I can heal the idiots that AREN’T standing in the fire in my sleep, even in VR. Benefits of having a brain case. Anyways your man is… oh. Um. Let me just… ##

You hear her hastily excuse herself from whatever game she’s playing. Then her voice becomes rather serious. ## Cathy’s there with you, right? ##

“I’m right here, yes.”

You let out a yelp as Cathy’s voice comes from right behind you. For a U-Oni Tank Killer she’s damn stealthy when she wants to be. There’s no sign of the pizza but you suppose that’s not important for the moment.

## Good. Taras’ is currently in a restaurant Aria both owns and frequents. ##

Before either you or Cathy can say anything your phone starts to ring. It’s an unknown number.

> [1] Answer it
> [2] Deny the call
> [3] Lose the phone
> [4] Look to Cathy and Mariet for advice

>>40063119
> [4] Look to Cathy and Mariet for advice

Why did I decide to be diligent? Missed out on pizza.

>>40063119
>> [4] Look to Cathy and Mariet for advice
"Well shit."

>>40063119
>> [4] Look to Cathy and Mariet for advice
I can't make decisions.

>>40063119
>[5] Tell Mariet to trace the call and then Answer it

>>40063223
They can probably trace us too.

>>40063119
> halp advice pls

>>40063119

You glance between your phone, the data pad, and Cathy, unsure of what to do. “Is this going to be who I think it is?”

Cathy grimaces and bites her lip. “It’s probably a safe bet that’s her, yes.”

Yeah that doesn’t make you feel any better. Despite a data wipe Aria still managed to track you down within 24 hours. Not a good sign. “Should I burn the phone or…?

## No, ## suggests Mariet. ## Answer it. I’ll run you through a backdoor in our systems to encrypt the call and obscure your location. ##

You look to Cathy for her opinion. She’s now biting the tip of a claw like one would a thumb. “Do it. Don’t mention the SCU and see what she wants.”

Well then. You take a few deep breaths to prepare yourself then answer the phone. Immediately a sickly sweet female voice, like that of a practiced politician and con-artist, fills your ear.

“Is this Mr. Weldon?”

> [1] Yeah that’s me
> [2] Nope. Wrong number.
> [3] I know who you are
> [4] Write in

>>40063394
>> [1] Yeah that’s me

>>40063394
>> [1] Yeah that’s me

>>40063394
> [1] Yeah that’s me

>>40063394
>[1] Yeah that’s me
Play dumb for now.

>>40063394
> [1] Yeah that’s me
>>40063441
I'd rather us not give any information that she doesn't request herself and that isn't compromising to us. You know, if she asks what we know about our associates we can probably answer honestly, we thought our boss was a pompous prick and we thought that guy who caused this shit was a decent outgoing dude we never bothered to hang out with.

>>40063485
No need to lock ourselves out her route yet anon, but i have a feeling since we are a PC, we might actually be her link to what ever the guy hid.

>>40063552
I'm not saying that, I'm saying give her enough information for her to decide we aren't a pressing threat on her, we don't know whatever she doesn't want people to know. This would mean we aren't nearly as big of a loose end as she currently thinks we are, and she might just ignore us as an extremely minor nuisance.

>>40063593
True, or might recruit us.

>>40063394

“Yeah, that’s me,” you reply.

“Ah wonderful! I was worried your friend here had given us another bad number. I’ve been trying to reach you for awhile, Mr. Weldon.”

“And why might that be?”

The woman, who you assume must be Aria, laughs musically. “Come now Mr. Weldon. You haven’t been back to your apartment since Friday evening. And you aren’t the sort to go on random trips or disappear unless there’s a very good reason for it. I imagine you must have heard about your co-workers?”

She leaves the question open-ended and with a tone that one might use to preface telling someone a loved pet has died.

> [1] Nope. I just decided to go on a rather long walk and got lost.
> [2] I heard they had an accident.
> [3] I know you murdered them
> [4] Write in

>>40063661
> [2] I heard they had an accident.
And since I was out a job, I started looking for a new one.

>>40063661
>[2] I heard they had an accident.
> [4] Write in
Also mention that we put two and two together and figured it was better for our health to disapaer.

>>40063661
>> [2] I heard they had an accident.
>> [4] Write in

"So I'm a little paranoid after I took a slug to the leg 'lancing, can you blame me?."

>>40063661
>[4]As you probably know I'm recently unemployed. You'd be amazed how hard it is to find work around here!

>>40063661
>[2] I heard they had an accident.

>>40063661
>> [2] I heard they had an accident.

>>40063719
>>40063715
Seconded being paranoid and seeing if we can get hired.

>>40063661

“I heard they had an accident. Something about a gas leak and an explosion. But after getting shot in the leg during my days on the streets I’m just a tad paranoid. Plus I figured it couldn’t hurt to get a headstart on the search for a new job.”

“Ah, ever the go-getter then. I can admire such a drive and awareness. In fact, I have a proposition for you. If you simply answer a few questions for me I’ll see to it you receive a replacement for that leg of yours. Free of charge and maintenance covered for life. Maybe even a job.”

Had you not seen the footage of her slaughtering people in cold blood it’d be a tempting offer. Even if you could trust her word you know there has to be an unspoken caveat. Someone like her would never give away something for free with no strings attached. Not even an ice cream cone.

Still, as you look to Cathy for guidance she motions in a circular swirl to keep the call going.

> [1] What is it you want to know?
> [2] Not interested. But I’ll answer a few questions if you do the same.
> [3] Tell me more about this leg and the job first
> [4] Hang up
> [5] Write in

>>40063874
>[3] Tell me more about this leg and the job first

>>40063874
> [3] Tell me more about this leg and the job first
You make a hell of an argument, but then again so did they dame that got me shot.

>>40063874
>[3] Tell me more about this leg and the job first
Play up the paranoid angle.

>>40063874
>[3] Tell me more about this leg and the job first

Watch your back, shoot straight, conserve ammo and never cut a deal with a drag queen

>>40063874
>> [3] Tell me more about this leg and the job first

>>40063874
>> [3] Tell me more about this leg and the job first
"I don't know, I'm kind of attached to this barely functioning limb of mine, what does yours do?"

>>40063874

“You’ll understand if I want to hear more about this offer of yours first, Miss…?”

You can almost feel her smile over the phone. “Ms. Aria Mizuno. I’m the CEO of Fokir International. You may have heard of us.”

“I’ve seen you on the news once or twice,” you admit in a half-truth manner. “Stuff about low cost cyberization clinics and the like.”

“Indeed, that is us. But in your case I would be giving you something a bit better than those hand-me-downs. A fully integrated and top-of-the-line model that’s indistinguishable from a natural leg, yet powerful enough to contend with most mid-range cyborgs. Would that be something you’re interested in, Mr. Weldon?”

It is, but you have to be careful about how you word this. “It might be. You’ll forgive me if I’m not so naive to think a simple question will earn me such a thing in this day and age.”

“Ahh. But the right bit of information can be most powerful if applied properly. And to be honest the job that comes with the offer would put you under my employment at Fokir. So in a way you could consider the new leg a signing bonus. But again, you must first answer my questions. Starting with this one: What can you tell me about Mr. Maxwell?”

> [1] Not much. Good guy. Sat by the window. Had to constantly fix his shitty work.
> [2] Make something up
> [3] He was a dick, didn’t interact with him
> [4] Write in

>>40064198
>> [1] Not much. Good guy. Sat by the window. Had to constantly fix his shitty work.
He was distracted by something or other constantly, ending up dumping more work on me.

>>40064198
>[1] Not much. Good guy. Sat by the window. Had to constantly fix his shitty work.

>>40064198
>[1] Not much. Good guy. Sat by the window. Had to constantly fix his shitty work.

Feed real, yet useless info. She probably knows a lot about us and him and is seeing if she missed anything.

>>40064198
> [1] Not much. Good guy. Sat by the window. Had to constantly fix his shitty work.
Bragging about his mancave all the time. (maybe make her think maxwell had a secret place?)

>>40064198
>> [1] Not much. Good guy. Sat by the window. Had to constantly fix his shitty work.

Now there's the shadowrunning /tg/ I know.

Think she's a dragon?

>>40064198
>[1] Not much. Good guy. Sat by the window. Had to constantly fix his shitty work.

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>>40064304
>Really nigga?

>>40064304
Only if she's a cyber dragon, like Cathy is a cyberized spidertank girl.

>>40064364
>>40064304
You understand we've seen Aria, yes?

At least I KNOW OOC we have seen the art for her.

>>40064407
Yeah but I wouldn't doubt her having a fully digitized mind, with backups and multiple bodies to choose from.

>>40064407
Isn't she a full-body cyborg?

So having a Dragon-class Strategic Theater Supremacy Form would be possible, wouldn't it?

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>>40064198

It’s best to play it safe. Give her just enough information so she knows you’re telling the truth while also maybe slipping in an occasional false lead.

“Not much I suppose. He sat in the back by the window. Generally good guy I guess, but he’d often dump his work on me or I’d have to go back and fix it more often than not.”

Aria hums thoughtfully at that. “I see. Do you know why that might be? Did he seem distracted perhaps?”

Cathy catches your attention before you answer and gives you a thumbs up. You take that to mean you can hang up whenever you need to and that you’re doing a great job thus far.

“I suppose? It seemed like his mind was elsewhere, yeah. I didn’t really interact with him outside of work. Most of what I know outside of that is water cooler rumors.”

“Even those would be helpful, Mr. Weldon.”

“Well…” You pause for dramatic effect to sell the incoming lie. “He supposedly talked about a side job or project now and again. I couldn’t tell you what that was or what he did outside of the office.”

“I see. That’s rather helpful. Thank you. One more question then: Who’s currently encrypting your end of the call? You must be very paranoid and know someone rather skilled to have arranged such a thing in such short order.”

Welp.

> [1] A lancer friend
> [2] It’s a program I kept from the old days. Keeps me alive.
> [3] I have no idea what you’re talking about
> [4] Write in

>>40064407
Pic-related

>>40064459
>[1] A lancer friend
She used to be a lancer.

>>40064459
> [2] It’s a program I kept from the old days. Keeps me alive.

Better safe than sorry, old lancer freind write it up for me as a favor before shit went pear shaped.

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>>40064459
>[2] It’s a program I kept from the old days. Keeps me alive.

Let her wonder.

Also, pic related-scaly armour, clawed feet, tail.

DRAGON!

>>40064459
>> [2] It’s a program I kept from the old days. Keeps me alive.

Well, G'night Iggy. Thanks for the fun. I gotta go rest up for work.

Anon, good luck.

>>40064496
>>40064495
>>40064517
>>40064509
>thinking an old program would still be relevant all these years later.
Its more reliable to know a talented lancer than some program thats pretty old.

She wont buy this whole "program" thing.

I think we need to be freaking out and panicking then shouting about answering your phone in public then hanging up

>>40064548
Honestly saying we got it from a friend who is/used to be a lancer is more believable, but if people want to wing it.
Also i believe the girl went off the grid so her working for the SUC shouldn't be known i think.

>>40064459
[2] It’s a program I kept from the old days. Keeps me alive.

>>40064573

Mariet? It's probably a safe bet she covered her tracks pretty well. Especially since she was the techie even back then.

>>40064459
> [4] Well I promised not to tell, but here's a hint: its- and then cut the call.

>>40064459
>1] A lancer friend
The encryption cypher used is probably cracked already if it's an old program. That it's a more recent encryption program from a lancer friend may be more believable, but it would put anyone we know or ever interacted with in danger of being questioned as to whether they're the "lancer friend".

>>40064587
So i wonder why people aren't using the lancer angel, but okay cool lets think she is stupid enough to fall for the old program bit when everything is so technology advance as it is.

>>40064459

Thinking quickly, you reply, “It’s a relic from the old days. Keeps me alive and satisfies my paranoia. I’m surprised the thing still works.”

“Indeed it does Mr. Weldon. At the moment you’re supposedly in the middle of the Sechiaso Republic a continent away. Whoever wrote that for you did a tremendous job. Do you still keep tabs with the author?”

Seeing as how Mariet’s right there (albeit muted) you’re able to respond truthfully, “More or less. I don’t know that she’d be willing to do me such a favor again though. We’re not as close as we once were.”

“Ah, a lover perhaps? No matter. If you could track her down and see about getting a copy of her source code for me I’ll see about getting you an even more lucrative prosthetic. For now, though, that is all. I’m afraid I cannot discuss the job details over the phone, even in an encrypted call. Only in person.”

> [1] I take it you want to meet me somewhere then
> [2] Well if you want to come to this pizza place I’ll hear you out
> [3] I’m flattered but not interested
> [4] Hang up

>>40064697
>> [1] I take it you want to meet me somewhere then
not committed but interested.

>>40064697
>[2] Well if you want to come to this pizza place I’ll hear you out
Keep control of the call, get her in a place that the SCU can monitor.

>>40064697
>> [1] I take it you want to meet me somewhere then
Somewhere nice and conspicuous

>>40064697
>[2] Well if you want to come to this pizza place I’ll hear you out
We got two agents prepped and ready.

>>40064746
>Keep control of the call, get her in a place that the SCU can monitor.

I dont think bring a woman who can tear tanks apart with her bare hands to us is a good idea.

And you're implying she wont send goons.

>>40064697
>[2] Well if you want to come to this pizza place I’ll hear you out

>>40064789

Well the alternative is walking into the proverbial dragon's den. Then we'd be somewhere Cathy couldn't save us at all.

>>40064805
Or we could not go.

I just dont trust her.

Not because "neerrrr EEEEVIIIILLLL"

But because she is a savvy and intelligent woman.

Who can tear tanks apart with her bare hands.

I think [2] has it by a vote. Writing...

>>40064697

“Again you must excuse me if I insist on having you meet me somewhere in public. If I’ve learned only one thing from my past it’s that walking into a lion’s den usually means you’re the food.”

“I can see your profile was spot on, Mr. Weldon. Very well. Where do you have in mind?”

You glance at Cathy and point down at where the pizza place is. She follows your finger then nods.

“There’s a pizza joint I know of that will at least give us both a good meal if nothing else. Say… forty-five minutes from now?”

“As you wish, Mr. Weldon. I look forward to meeting you in person.”

Then the line goes dead quiet. So does the world too, only for the silence to be interrupted by one of the space elevators launching with a muffled thump. One far quieter than you’re used to.

“So…” You look at Cathy and unmute the data pad. “What now?”

## Now I try and wake everyone up so they’re on-station in case things go south again. You want me to have anything special in place, Cathy? ##

Cathy thinks on it for a moment, then replies, “Yes. See if you can get a hold of the Colonel at the Air Base to put several tactical units on standby or in a ‘training exercise’ nearby. And tell the Chief to prepare for the worst.”

## You got it! ## Mariet’s line goes quiet as she goes about her work. Within a few minutes most of the member lights are starting to wink green.

“And here I thought she’d ignore your ‘friend’ Taras. Or that he’d be more tight-lipped.” Cathy shakes her head and sighs at you. “Oh well. Here, have a slice of pizza so you’re not running entirely on empty.”

> cont

>>40065087

She reaches behind her as her abdomen makes a wooshing sound. You’d forgotten that the U-Oni class had a sealed compartment where they usually store additional ammo, power, and so forth. Given the dim light and angle you’re not able to see much besides a few belts of rather high caliber rounds and a pizza box. Cathy removes two slices from said box, then closes her compartment. She offers one to you and keeps the other to herself. It’s actually pretty good, though you can’t say you agree entirely with the stuffed crust.

As you scarf it down, Cathy remarks, “You’ll have to leave your SCU stuff up here. The pad, the weapons, everything. Otherwise she’s liable to pick it up with a scan. Our only line into what will happen in there will be the staff androids and your phone. Otherwise it’ll be purely visual. Demian and Cetus are the only ones who will make it in time, so do try and not piss her off.”

After licking your fingers clean you reply, “I didn’t plan on dying today, so there’s that.”

She simply rolls her eyes at you before plucking you up. As it’s just a quick descent to the street below she keeps you slung under an arm. Once she’s dropped you off in an alleyway she shimmers and disappears from sight. It doesn’t really hit you until then how vulnerable you are. Sure this is the High District and there are plenty of cyborgs around but you’re really taking a risk on this. Though you suppose this was going to happen eventually. Better to face it head on.

> cont

>>40065099

In any case you situate yourself in the restaurant near a window and facing the door. When the service android comes to get your order it gives you a wink. But after it delivers your drink you’re on your own for awhile. Some thirty minutes later a trio of black SUVs pulls up outside of the place. A rather well-dressed goon pops out of the lead vehicle and rushes to open the door of the middle. Out of it steps Aria much as you remember seeing her from Hatos’ projection. However this time she’s wearing what could only be described as a cybernetic power suit. No bare midriff and her clawed legs are now more like heeled boots.

After an exchange of words with someone in her SUV she enters the pizza joint with only a single goon in tow.

> [1] Let her find you
> [2] Get her attention
> [3] Write in

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>>40065099
>though you can’t say you agree entirely with the stuffed crust.

>>40065118
>[1] Let her find you

>>40065118
>2] Get her attention

>>40065118
>> [2] Get her attention

>>40065118
> [1] Let her find you

>>40065118
> [2] Get her attention
Let's signal our co-workers at the same time.

[2] has it by a vote I think. Writing...

>>40065138
Was it bad crust or did Weldon just not like it in general? I'll let you decide. I almost had him say pineapple instead of pepperoni earlier

>>40065261
What the fuck Iggy. We're a god-damn man. Not some effeminate fuck-boi. We eat pizzas covered in meats and with crusts filled by bacon fried cheese.

>>40065118

No sense delaying the inevitable. When her gaze passes in your direction you stand and wave. Aria smiles and makes a beeline for you. Once within arm’s reach she extends a hand.

“Mr. Weldon, it’s a pleasure.”

You glance once at her bodyguard to make sure it’s okay then shake her hand. Unlike Cathy’s grip Aria’s is more like Sako’s: masculine and almost painful. You do your best not to grimace as you motion at the booth. “Likewise. Shall we?”

Without complaint she swirls her tail out of the way and takes a seat across from you. Then she waves away her goon. “I don’t have much time so you’ll forgive *me* if I get straight to the point. I understand you have zero prosthetics or even a brain case, so please use these.”

She reaches into her suit jacket and removes a set of earbuds on a wire, of which you’re unable to see the other end. You’re guessing they’re connected to her directly though based on the way she leans over the table to offer them out. A one-sided conversation perhaps? Or maybe just a way to prevent her side from being recorded?

> [1] Take them and listen
> [2] Refuse, but politely
> [3] Refuse outright
> [4] Write in

>>40065361
>> [1] Take them and listen

It's not like you can hurt yourself with something as small as earbuds, or things as small as earbuds. Right?

>>40065382

We once thought birds were harmless too. Then Mariet happened.

>>40065361
>[1] Take them and listen
Refusing now will just end up with it being forced on us, or getting kidnapped.

>>40065361
>[2] Refuse, but politely
We built ourselves to be a paranoid person guys, our earbuds could be explosives, and why did she so readily agree to the meeting?

>>40065361
>> [1] Take them and listen

>>40065361
>> [2] Refuse, but politely
Maybe make up some bullshit about an old lancer trick that killed an old friend of ours that looked like this, put in the ear bud and turns your brain to liquid

>>40065382
They could put a chip in our brain or something easily anon

> Since [1] had it by a vote...

You’re pretty sure refusing her at this point would mean something unpleasant. Besides, they’re just earbuds. What’s the worst that could happen?

After you lean over in kind and settle them in your ear you hear Aria’s voice through them.

## What I’m about to tell you does not leave this booth, let alone your brain. Do you understand? You can reply normally. ##

After a moment you nod hesitantly.

## Good. Have you ever heard of the SCU before? ##

Welp. You may have been able to lie over the phone but doing so in person is going to be a tad more difficult. Especially because she’s a cyborg. Even a half-truth might get you caught if you’re not careful. Were you any more green at subterfuge you might have already given a tell.

> [1] Never heard of them
> [2] A special unit or union or something?
> [3] Aren’t they a unit dedicated to cyborg stuff?

>>40065551
>> [2] A special unit or union or something?

And people were griping about having a high SS.

>>40065551
>> [2] A special unit or union or something?
not exactly lying.

>>40065551
>> [2] A special unit or union or something?

>>40065551
>> [2] A special unit or union or something?
"I think I remember hearing about them on the news in the bar every now and then, but most of the time I was well on my way to being drunk."

>>40065644

Remember what Hatos said in thread 1 anon - the SCU doesn't officially exist. They wouldn't be on the news.

>>40065551
>[2] A special unit or union or something?

Pretty obvious [2] has it.

Roll time again though. 4 anons, 1d6.

Rolled 2 (1d6)

>>40065690

>>40065660
That's why we bullshit about hearing about some shipbuilders credit union or something

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>40065690

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>40065690

Rolled 2 (1d6)

>>40065690

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>40065690

>>40065690
Uh oh.

>>40065726
>>40065718
>>40065710
>>40065698
6
I vote to turning 1 of these into a 9.

>>40065698
>>40065710
>>40065718
>>40065726

Survey says that's a 6. Whether that's good or bad I won't say to keep things interesting. The forced 9 is also available, but I'll be nice and say it isn't needed here per say.

>>40065551

All you can hope for at this point is that your natural deceptive abilities haven’t diminished over the years. That and Aria didn’t just hook you up to a mobile lie detector.

“I think they’re a special unit or credit union or something? Might have heard about them on the news or something at my favorite bar, but I tend to get a little more than tipsy there if you catch my drift.”

Aria’s piercing blue, glowing eyes rove over your face. Like Hatos’ they seem to peer straight into your soul. For a moment you worry as they narrow, but then Aria smiles.

## You wouldn’t have heard about this SCU in particular on the news. In any case your job with Fokir, and with me, would be to join up with them and do a few things for me. They’ve been looking rather hard at our operations as of late and making it hard to do business both inside and outside of Ocrania. Even my low cost clinics are suffering, and that means many in the lower districts are like you - stuck at dead end jobs without a chance to better themselves. ##

After a pause and a worried look she continues, ## I simply need you to make sure that whatever they think they have against my corporation and myself disappears. Or that their tank killer cyborg is… removed from the picture. ##

To buy yourself time for a proper reply you ask, “How would I get a job with such an organisation?”

Aria beams. ## I have many contacts with the government which are higher on the totem pole than their Chief. Having you become an Independent Verifier or something along those lines would be trivial. ##

So she wants you to be a double agent for her against the SCU. But she doesn’t have enough leverage over them at the moment to remove their thorn in her side. Interesting…

> [1] I’ll need to think about this.
> [2] No need, I’m already inside.
> [3] I don’t think I’m suited for such a task, sorry.
> [4] Nope.jpg
> [5] Write in

>>40065907
>[1] I’ll need to think about this.

>>40065907
>[1] I’ll need to think about this.
2 is suicidal, at best.

>>40065941
Not really, but it can be suicide if done incorrectly.
Its basically the would you like to betray the SCU choice.

>>40065907
> [1] I’ll need to think about this.
Also
>Triple agent
AHAHAHAHAHAHA

>>40065907
> Tank killer cyborg

Lady, I got pretty messed up just being a street kid. That's why I got out of it. Tank. Killer. Cyborg.

And apparently whatever is going on already got all my coworkers wasted.

Getting a new leg won't make up if there's nothing left inside my head to walk around on it.

>>40065907
>[2] No need, I’m already inside.
>>40065956
Honestly it might show that we are already on their pay roll, so we should find a way to clear our info away from the SCU.

>>40065960
>>40065907

Sorry, my write in is

> Negotiate for something else.

Fuck if I know what you guys would want from her though. I just want her to think we're a greedy coward, and easy to control.

>>40065962

If it's anything like IRL 3 letter agencies they don't show up on your W2 as them. Instead they go through shell companies/llcs/etc.

>>40065907
> [1] I’ll need to think about this.

>>40065980
Doesn't hurt to be safe especially since we just filed paper work under our name.

>>40065992
The paperwork on the goons can be handwaved as being standard PD shit.
And do you really think the op's paperwork is going to show up?
It's called opsec.

[1] has it I believe. Back in a bit...

>>40065907

“With all due respect I’ll need some time to think about this. The reason I got out of the game in the first place was because of how badly I got hurt. And you want me to deal with something like that? You can see how I’d be apprehensive to such a request.”

## Of course. You have 24 hours. Should you chose to accept simply go to the following clinc for your procedure. ## She slides over a napkin with an address scribbled on it.

## Should you manage to get the source code I requested by then I’ll see to it you’re given something close to a full body prosthetic. Not a full one though, otherwise I won’t be able to use my contact to get you the job. But enough and with plenty extras to allow you to handle the tank killer. ##

With that she snaps her fingers and causes the earbuds to pop out of your ears. They immediately retract back into her suit as she stands. “It’s been a pleasure talking with you, Mr. Weldon. I hope to hear from you soon.”

You nod, causing her tail to twitch slightly. Then she and her goon depart. But on the way you see and hear Aria pull aside one of the service androids. “See to it the man in the booth there is given whatever food and drink he asks for, even if you don’t have it here.” Then she’s gone as the SUV convoy rolls away.

> [1] Play it cool. Order something simple then leave.
> [2] Wait five minutes then leave without ordering
> [3] Well she did say ANYTHING…
> [4] Write in

>>40066137
>[3] Well she did say ANYTHING…
Gotta make them wait.

>>40066137
>[2] Wait five minutes then leave without ordering

>>40066137
>[3] Well she did say ANYTHING…

>>40066137
> [4] Write in
Just order a drink

>>40066137
>> [3] Well she did say ANYTHING…
Man pizza. Green peppers, red onions, sausage, beef, ham, italian sausage, extra cheese, three cheese blend, garlic infused, tomatoes, olives, with cheesy crust. Oh, and pepperoni, if you'd like I guess.

>>40066137
>> [3] Well she did say ANYTHING…
Hey we are hungry. maybe get the girls something.

>>40066161
>>40066182
We have to make sure they don't follow us so i think making them wait by ordering a lot of things will help, plus i believe hacker girl is in control of the drone.
>>40066189
Good idea, maybe order enough to feed the whole team?

>>40066205
>plus i believe hacker girl is in control of the drone.

Scary thought: What if one of Aria's men (or women) has control now?

[Paranoia Intensifies]

>>40066137
>[3] Well she did say ANYTHING…

>>40066137
>[4] Dick the server, no matter their sex.

So [3] then. With the food/drink being some kind of "man pizza," some extra pies to go, and maybe some liquor.

Writing...

>>40066279
For real boss? Are you telling me you never had man pizza?

>>40066293

No it just varies from person to person what that entails. Some think that means ghost peppers and something instead of red sauce.

>>40066279
Ugh, that sounds freaking disgusting. Let's get a nice Margherita pizza, or something that will have actual FLAVOUR instead of a slopping mess of grease.

>>40066301
Don't forget to get enough sides and deserts to clog our heart even in this cyber punk world.

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>>40066326
Get your thin crust privilege out of here shitlord. Big, fat, greasy and proud.

>>40066361
>calling that a man pizza
If you can see the cheeze, there isn't enough shit on there.
>>40066301
Don't forget flavored stuffed crust.

>SitS Quest: Pizza

>>40066395
Pizza is serious business son. QM knew what they were getting into when they started.

>>40066395

At least we're arguing over pizza and not waifus.

I left for work as we were heading to get pizza, I get home and we're finally getting pizza

I love this quest

>>40066137

You wait patiently until the android comes around to you once more for your order. Thinking of your team outside, you order several things: a pizza for yourself, one for the crew outside, and a fairly standard case of liquor. You’re almost ready to let out a sigh of relief when the android replies, “My, had you mentioned you were so hungry to the Mistress she would have gladly taken you somewhere more upscale. She doesn’t show this courtesy to everyone, you know.”

Then it winks with the opposite eye from the one Mariet (or Cathy) used before going off to see to your order. You guess it’s a good thing you didn’t try and reach out to the SCU via the serverbot.

In relatively short order the same android returns with two boxes of pizza and another with a mixture of beer and cheap liquor. It bows without a word and leaves you to it. Suffice to say you actively work to keep it together as you pick up everything and walk outside. You don’t see any visible tails, but it never hurts to be paranoid…

> [1] Deliberately go around the block a few times to make sure you’re not being followed and check the pizza.
> [2] Head into an alley somewhere 10 blocks up the road
> [3] Head back to your apartment
> [4] Write in

>>40066389
I am a simple man, pepperoni, bacon and either onion or mushroom, depending on my mood.

>>40066424
because we're totally going to get Cathy and the scary dragon lady in our bed, together, at the same time

it will need significant structural reinforcing, come to think of it, so might we

>>40066439
> [1] Deliberately go around the block a few times to make sure you’re not being followed and check the pizza.

>>40066439
>[1] Deliberately go around the block a few times to make sure you’re not being followed and check the pizza.

>>40066439
> [1] Deliberately go around the block a few times to make sure you’re not being followed and check the pizza.

>>40066439
> [1] Deliberately go around the block a few times to make sure you’re not being followed and check the pizza.

Street sense, ho!

>>40066439
we checking the pizza for bugs right?

>>40066483

That was the idea, yes.

Time to see how good you are at checking for bugs and for tails.

2d6 from 4 anons. The first set of d6 will be for the tail, the second for the bugs.

i.e. if an Anon rolls 3 and 5, the former is for the tail and the latter for the bugs.

Rolled 5, 3 = 8 (2d6)

>>40066544

Rolled 1 (1d6)

>>40066544
Alright, first roll of the night. Let's see if I do better than the lowrollers in tonight's thread.

Rolled 6, 2 = 8 (2d6)

>>40066544


>>40066552
>doesn't roll the right dice
>rolls a 1
Nope, you can't do better.

Rolled 5, 1 = 6 (2d6)

>>40066544
>>40066552
Uh. I forgot the two.

Rolled 6, 2 = 8 (2d6)

>>40066544

Rolled 2, 1 = 3 (2d6)

>>40066544
>>40066552
Please tell me this doesn't count.

this is rather pathetic

>>40066551
>>40066558
>>40066560
>>40066564
...well, the tail ain't shit apparently. The bug however?

>>40066551
>>40066558
>>40066560
>>40066564
12,5
so anyone else want to make this one a 9?

>>40066581
Yeah, I'd kinda like to do that.

Rolled 4, 2 = 6 (2d6)

>>40066544

>>40066581
yup

>>40066544

>> Toss the pizza and booze regardless

I just have this image of it being bugged, and implanting a tracker in us or something.

>>40066581
Ooooh yes.

>>40066581
Same kinda curoius on how the QM is gonna handle this.
>with a caveat of sorts in the narrative
Can mean alot of things,

>>40066581
that 12 is a crit success

though I'm not sure on making that 5 an auto 9, don't know what that caveat is

>>40066581
Fuck that, then we won't be able to use it when it's a matter of life and death. Let's just pretend everything is bugged, and chuck the food/beer and our clothing when we get home, and then shower and comb through our hair and shit.

>>40066551
>>40066558
>>40066560
>>40066564

You crit succeed the first and get a 5 on the second. Since I see people are talking about it, let's vote on the reroll to make it official:

> [1] Force that 9 Tzeentch!
> [2] Pls no

>>40066619
> [1] Force that 9 Tzeentch!

>>40066619
whats the caveat?

>>40066581
No. Only every other session, remember?

Ask yourself "Will failing to FIND a bug get us killed?" Or can we use intelligent actions to be paranoid as fuck about it and make it pointless whether or not there really was a bug.

>>40066619
[1]

>>40066613
not the 5, but one of the rolls into a 9, making the bug a 12.
>>40066615
1. you can't do that in quest.
2.It refills after the session of the upcoming one.

>>40066628

Dunno. Haven't rolled on the FUN table yet.

>>40066615
Yeah it means we can't use it next thread, and I'm not sure we entirely need it right now

>>40066619
> [2] Pls no

>>40066632
Or find it and then use it to feed Aria false information.

>>40066619
>[1] Force that 9 Tzeentch!

>>40066638
The fact you would roll on a table and leave it up to the dice on how to fuck us over makes me NEVER want to use that...

>>40066619
2: lets see whats happens.

>>40066638
Does this refill at the end of the next session, or the session after it?

>>40066635
Why can't we decide to be paranoid, in quest? That if we can't find a bug, which isn't something we're exactly a professional at or equipped for, we can't decide that it doesn't mean the bug isn't there?

Am I the only person who remembers 10ft poles back in the day, where your GM doesn't tell you that there are no traps, only that you failed to find any?

>>40066619
>[1] Force that 9 Tzeentch!

>>40066619
>>40066646
>>40066654

Link to the post, anons.

>>40066674
I've not voted yet anon, and I'm abstaining from it until I know more about how the QM will ream us up the arse for this.

>>40066654
It's kinda like Psychic Phenomena in 40k. Not all of them are "bad" but they certainly run the gambit. It's not like your pizza will suddenly daemonhost though. More like you might find your precious meat got replaced with fruits. Or something.

>>40066661
SitS 05 if used now.

>>40066663
You can if you pick the right choices. At the moment I qualify Weldon as aware and semi-paranoid but not Batman-levels.

>>40066686

For what? He won't roll on the table until we pick.

>>40066719
>it for 2 threads
From the sounds of it will only be 1 thread.
unless he means that it comes back at the end of thread 5.

>>40066719
That's why I wouldn't choose to use it, when we can use lateral thinking to get around a bad roll like this.

Namely, "I am not a specialist in finding bugs. I have no tools to find bugs. While I have looked, not finding any bugs doesn't mean they aren't there. If I want to be safe with the scary woman who found me although I was supposed to be reported dead, and has contacts in the government above my new scary spook bosses, and owns a high-tech manufacturing industry, then I should assume any bugs she makes would be very hard to detect indeed and act as if they are there regardless."

>>40066745
true

I'll switch >>40066719 to >>40066619
>> [2] Pls no

Well I'm seeing one more [1] than [2]. Off I go to write.

>>40066742
You have it correct.

>>40066742
You're acting like shit rolls won't come back around, or like this is a CRPG where we can't take actions or have plans that mitigate shit rolls.

I mean, assuming we're bugged regardless would seem like a reasonable thing when this chicks goons just out-spooked our new spook bosses.

Remember, our character was the one who looked at his life and said "Fuck this, I'm aiming for the nice soft office job" after getting messed up. That was just gang-banging. This chick wiped out our entire office in full public with her dick swinging in the wind.

>>40066775
which bit does he have it correct?

would it be available at the start or end of thread 5?

>>40066793

At the start.

>>40066775
C'est la vie. Hope we roll well for the next bit boyos. No tears if things go wrong.

>>40066792
>our character was the one who looked at his life and said "Fuck this, I'm aiming for the nice soft office job" after getting messed up. That was just gang-banging. This chick wiped out our entire office in full public with her dick swinging in the wind.
Actually it was more like Fuck this shit is too dangerous for me and i can't afford augs, i guess i have to go to this soul crushing job with a boss who lords his power over me.

>>40066799
>Hope we roll well for the next bit boyos.
That's the whole thing I hate about the mechanic, the sheer NEED to delve into shadowruns and paranoia and meta shit just to plan when we should and shouldn't use it which in my mind is crap.

All it does is remove my mind from the story, destroy my immersion and pull me out, when I should instead just be focusing on playing the quest as the MC.

Good lord. It's freaking cyclical. There's always that one guy at the start of every new quest that starts a fuss about dice mechanics and immersion. Literally, every single quest. Except Improvaizen. Lucky fucks.

>>40066814

That just kind of reinforces the point more, really.

Moot now, though, since we still had 1 more vote for re-rolling. Why use your brain, when you can use dice? Mumble grumble

Whatever, it's been picked so I'll just let it go.

>>40066844
Well in a narrative experience, anything that removes one's self from the narrative is a negative, the aim of the storyteller should be to draw them in, not shunt them out.

>>40066439

You’re not the most aware person in the world but you know a tail when you see it. You find two on your trail as you round the block the first time. Losing them is a simple matter of dodging down the right alleyway and going the opposite way from what they’d expect. But first you have to check the pizza. Doing so while moving is difficult to say the least. In fact, you end up losing one of the pies (yours) when a man bumps into you on the street.

Overall, though, you do find three bugs across the remaining pizza and bottles of liquor. They’re rather well hidden, designed either to be so innocuous that a normal inspection wouldn’t find them or to be ingested and continually transmit that way. Initially you almost thought the pepperoni was safe but now you see they’re no good. First birds, now this. Is nothing sacred?!

So long as you have the bugs on you you’re probably not going to be able to lose you tail.

> [1] Lose everything in case you missed something and disappear
> [2] Dispose of the bugged items/slices and hope you didn’t miss anything
> [3] Keep the bugs on you for now and continue to act normal while you attempt to lose the tail
> [4] Write in

>>40066824
But . . . shadowruns and paranoia are kind of what futuristic cyberpunk is all about? Big brother watching you, not knowing who it is inside that android, trying to sort propaganda from truth, etc.

This is going to fuck us over next thread and we're never ever going to use this again, I can feel it.

>>40066867
> [3] Keep the bugs on you for now and continue to act normal while you attempt to lose the tail

once we lose the tail and let our friends know whats up we can subtly get rid of the bugs

>>40066867
>> [3] Keep the bugs on you for now and continue to act normal while you attempt to lose the tail
lets have her think we know nothing.

>>40066867
>> [3] Keep the bugs on you for now and continue to act normal while you attempt to lose the tail

No point tossing them yet, if they see that we found them then they'll just continue to tail us. Since we DID find SOME, we might as well keep them if we need to feed them false information.

Yes, I'm still not assuming that 9 was enough to find all the bugs.

>>40066867
>[3] Keep the bugs on you for now and continue to act normal while you attempt to lose the tail

>>40066872
>But . . . shadowruns and paranoia are kind of what futuristic cyberpunk is all about?
They are about that INSIDE the story, not completely removed from it in the meta.

An idea for how to get rid of the bugs, move the good food into a couple containers to take with us, and put the bugged stuff in their own containers, then give them to homeless people.

>>40066867
> [1] Lose everything in case you missed something and disappear


This pizza and booze is tainted, purge it in the name of the Emperor. We can just use our new cushy government black job budget for a pizza party later.

>>40066867
> Put a bunch of bugs for him to find

> Use an air current to waft a line into his hair that he won't ever notice.

> Spray him with an aerosol pheromone that can be tracked.

> Put a surface sticky into his hand while squeezing a little too hard to distract him from the sensation while shaking his hand.

Okay, that might be too many shadowruns.

> [3] Keep the bugs on you for now and continue to act normal while you attempt to lose the tail

>>40066867
>> [3] Keep the bugs on you for now and continue to act normal while you attempt to lose the tail

I would like to remind everyone that Aria believes (or at least appears to believe) that we are not yet in contact with the SCU, so any option that includes keeping the bugs MUST end with us returning to our apartment. We cannot use them to feed false information without betraying our shadowruns.

>>40066907
How is that not inside the story? So far this woman has proven herself capable of finding us almost immediately, meeting with us, suborning the Androids at the cafe, runs a high-tech conglomerate, and has plants in the government above our bosses, and has countered their spy capabilities at every turn.

I mean, assuming we could even find all the bugs is arrogant as fuck already. Hell, we should be shitting our pants and cursing our friend for not having had the good grace to get hit by a car before meeting her.

That's not Meta, that's just assuming that you aren't a super spy, after having it painfully rubbed in your face a few times in a short span of time.

Remember the plant that we told all our troubles to? Yeah, we're obviously fan-fucking-tastic at finding bugs.

So please, don't say that it's "Meta" just because you're scared of a bad roll.

>>40066948
>returning to a place that is likely bugged to hell by now.
Nigga i'm planning on losing the bugs once the tail is gone.

>>40066948
Well, in this case the false information would be that we have not yet contacted the SCU.

[3] it is. Back in a bit...

>>40066961
Did you not even bother to read the discussion you jumped into?

It was never about the story itself but the mechanic of the auto 9 rolls...

Seriously go and read the chain for fucks sake.

Ok guys night, remember, be smart, be paranoid and trust the team.

>>40066961
You missed that discussions entire point anon, try again.

The meta he referred to is an actual meta discussion, not related to the story at all but that particular mechanic.

>>40066978
>>40066988

And here I thought he meant trying to come up with a different plan if we failed to find any bugs haha.

I personally don't mind the auto 9 rolls or fate points etc. when it's 1 player 1 character, but having a vote on it when there's a group of people playing the MC . . . yeah, I agree it can break the immersion.

Personally, I think having to use it is a sign that the dice system being used is not . . . good. But hey it's not my quest & ELH is a good enough writer that I'll overlook it.

>>40066867

It’s time to see whether the tails are going off of visual or virtual information. To that end you do your damnedest to shake them loose. Lo and behold you do in fact lose them five blocks later. You keep going for now just to be safe.

With your thoughts elsewhere you again run into someone. But as you look to see who it was and to apologize you realize it definitely wasn’t an accident. You’ve only seen the guy once but you’re pretty sure that’s Cetus.

“Sorry mate,” he says with a very subtle nod. Then he vanishes into the crowd.

After checking your surroundings again you head into a nearby alley to use the shadows of the buildings overhead to your advantage. There you give yourself and your items a pat down. Sure enough you find your data pad slipped into and taped to the underside of the pizza box. It’s currently displaying a single message:

### Your food and drink is bugged. Food’s positional, drink’s audio. Tails are gone but we can’t meet you here. Act like you’re going back to your apartment for now. ###

> [1] Get rid of just the drinks
> [2] Get rid of the food
> [3] Get rid of both
> [4] Hang onto them

>>40067013
>I personally don't mind the auto 9 rolls or fate points etc.
Neither do I, I think having some kind of fate point dynamic is critical to quests using dice, but I have issues with the 'cooldown' if you will, it means that whenever we consider using that auto 9, we need to go "Stop, hang on, let's think about this, do we really need this now? What's going to happen next thread when we're completely helpess against the dice?" etc.

>>40067052
> [2] Get rid of the food
down a sewer or toilet, to make it look like we vomited it out or something
then a couple blocks later
> [1] Get rid of just the drinks
to make them think we ate and drank all of it ourselves like an idiot and made ourself sick

>>40067052
> [1] Get rid of just the drinks

>>40067013

The problem at this point is I'm not 100% either way whether this is just the standard anon griping about failed rolls or if there is enough warrant at this point to switch systems. Because even if we went to a d100 system you'd be rolling under a 20 for some things. And it'd go back to best of 3 instead of 4.

>>40067072
I'm the one griping about it (I think), and I think for now it's fine, we need to see it in action to be able to truly make a determination on it, I've no issues with the way we roll dice, how many and what type, like how we do right now, I just think that eventually we're going to decide that we need the auto 9 'now' instead of next thread, and then have something really fuck bad happen next thread tear the quest apart when that auto 9 could have prevented it but it was on cooldown.

So no, not that big a deal.

>>40066792
>You're acting like shit rolls won't come back around, or like this is a CRPG where we can't take actions or have plans that mitigate shit rolls.
Actually yes.
Knowing that you rolled badly on sneaky matters is metagaming.

>>40067072
Yeah, I can't really tell if we're just rolling terrible, or if the system doesn't work too well on /tg/'s rng.

For me, though, since I don't like letting the dice alone choose the narrative, it doesn't really bother me that much.

Most of the time it just means we'll have to come up with a different plan, or adapt to a situation. Which is why I personally would have preferred to save the auto-9 for a "dodge or die" moment, but hey can't win them all.

>>40067052
> [4] Hang onto them

If we're going to plead we can't do the job because we're incompetent, then we should at least look incompetent. Or not TOO competent, like maybe we're being helped?

>>40067111
this is "shadowruns: the quest, with spider and dragon waifubutts", I think metagaming is unavoidable

>>40067052
>> [1] Get rid of just the drinks
On the way to our apartment make it look like we threw them up.

>>40067130
We're sure as shit rolling worlds better than the first thread...

>>40067111
Anon, I would have said lets dump the food and drink no matter what we rolled, on the premise that the shit was bugged.

See >>40066599

Fuck taking anything from the enemy when they own a tech company and can out-spy your spies. Yes, I play with a GM who will say "You don't FIND any traps or bugs".

Unless we critted, I would have voted to dump it.

>>40067161
I'm voting for dumping both of them and not eating any, but dumping them in different places at different times, on the way back to our apartment

[1] has it more or less to start off with.

Writing...

I'll address the meta issue during housekeeping later on, but basically it's not a problem to me (yet). Ideally the narrative should give you options that don't NEED a forced 9 except in a life or death situation.

>>40067137
And to think you haven't met the third "main" one yet

>>40067178
>third "main" one yet
Pls no mammalian frames.

>>40067178
>And to think you haven't met the third "main" one yet
well unless we can end up with all three, I'm pretty sure we'll end up sticking with one of the ones we've met

>>40067178
I hate you so much right now, I love dragongirls but she's the BBEG and bestgril is a spider cyborg, and I have arachnophobia

File: MGE Ushi Oni.png (628 KB, 1367x629)

628 KB PNG

>>40067209

She's not all that bad anon. She just wants to love you!

>>40067178
Third one is pure AI, can take any form but only wants to meet in cyberspace.

>>40067209
Overcome your fears, anon! Become the leg man!

>>40067178
>Ideally the narrative should give you options that don't NEED a forced 9 except in a life or death situation.


VALIDATION.

>>40067052

If you at least get rid of the drinks you’ll be able to ring up Cathy and the rest of the SCU without issue. So you begin looking for a group of hobos. Even though this isn’t the Low District it doesn’t take you long to find a pair huddled around a barrel near a dumpster. They’re more than happy to take the liquor off your hands, as well as a few slices of pizza. That just leaves you with half a pie to maintain the illusion for Aria.

When you’re farther back towards your apartment you finally try and bring up Cathy on your pad. She’s quick to answer, ## Keep walking straight for another block, then make a left. Oh and prepare to be grabbed. ##

“Sure, I can do-” Damn. The line’s dead. You don’t even think she heard you. Ah well.

Sure enough when you turn the corner you find yourself snatched up and rapidly ascending. It’s only once you’re atop a roof that Cathy uncloaks and takes the pizza from you. She glares at it for a moment, then tosses it into the air. It explodes moments later as a muffled blast from her right hand eliminates any trace of its existence.

“I set up a trail of ghost beacons so Aria will think you actually went back towards your place. They drop off around a checkpoint though, so we’ll have to hope that’s enough. Now…”

As the barrel recedes into her oversized paw and is replaced by claws she turns to look at you with stern concern. “What in the world did she want?”

> [1] Well to kill you, for one.
> [2] Maybe it’s best we get to the safe house first
> [3] The SCU out of the way and she’s got powerful friends
> [4] Write in