>>40509506

“...and so that’s why we had to alter quite a few records and memories of the staff downstairs. Which came to light when the validity of the footage we had was challenged and we didn’t have the OVA who signed off on it to back us up.”

Mariet pauses for dramatic effect as you continue to plod on with your work. So far she’s given you the quick and dirty of what happened while you were off getting new limbs. It’s made sense from a spycraft point of view. After all, what better way to make sure no one who saw you in the SCU building would talk than to erase their memories of you entirely?

You set down your pen and rub your eyes as you formulate a reply. “Lemme guess, Aria’s people came up with some contradictory evidence.”

A small sigh escapes Mariet’s lips, “Yes and no. There’s actually three versions of the footage out there. The one you saw, the one Aria’s people retorted with, and then one other.”

“The difference between them being?”

She waves her hand over a trio of screens, “See for yourself.”

Again you’re “treated” to the video of your former co-workers being killed. The SCU’s and Aria’s feed are from the same source: a security camera at street level. But once Aria enters the bar with her goons they subtly diverge. In the SCU’s version, it seems that Aria’s group is the aggressor. After a brief conversation they begin advancing on Maxwell, who then opens fire in response. In Aria’s version, however, Aria and her men remain a respectable distance away until Maxwell’s arm begins spitting fire at them. Maxwell then grabs your old boss to use as a human shield, something that was entirely absent from the SCU’s footage. From there events play out similarly until Cathy falls into view. The difference then is who acts first before the camera’s destroyed: Cathy or Aria.

> cont

>>40682744

Meanwhile a third version of events plays off to the side of the other two. This one seems to be from a cyborg sitting in a restaurant across the street from the bar. For starters, you see Aria enter the bar and confront Maxwell. This time there’s a much longer period where the two simply chat. It’s only when your old boss starts getting antsy and tries to excuse himself that things begin to spiral out of hand. Maxwell grabs him, the goons pull their guns, and a standoff occurs. There’s an attempt at placating Maxwell, then bullets start to fly. But not due to either side firing first. They in fact fire at the same time due to the bartender dropping a bottle behind the bar and startling everyone.

At this point the footage sways and shifts as the cyborg you’re viewing from starts to make their exit from the area. Between shots of a frantic, fleeing crowd you see Cathy and Aria going at it and slamming each other into buildings. Meanwhile both Aria’s goons and someone who looks like Sako attempt to pull the wounded out from the rubble.

“So, what do you think?” asks Mariet.

> Pick a single option for now
> [1] Who provided this third record of events? And is it “real?”
> [2] I don’t know that I like being strung along by either side
> [3] I think it doesn’t matter at this point. What matters is what we do from here.
> [4] Write in

>>40682758
>> [1] Who provided this third record of events? And is it “real?”

>>40682758
> I thought getting strung along by both the SCU and Aria's organization was troublesome, but a third? Give me a break. All that matters to me is what to do from here.

>>40682758
>> [1] Who provided this third record of events? And is it “real?”

you seem to have a post deleted Iggy.

>>40682758
> [1] Who provided this third record of events? And is it “real?

>>40682872

Nah it links back to the last thread. I do that sometimes if it's temporally relevant.

>>40682758
>> [1] Who provided this third record of events? And is it “real?”

>>40682758
>[1] Who provided this third record of events? And is it “real?”

Can we go back to having 3 rolls? 4 is too easy.

>>40682758

The first thought that occurs to you is the validity of this third record of events. You express as much to Mariet, “How ‘real’ is this version here? I mean it’s from a cyborg’s point of view, so they had to have gotten it signed off by an OVA, right? And who provided it anyways?”

Mariet frowns and lets out a “tsich” noise. “It was sent directly to Chairman Orlin. That’s about all we know. But he must trust the source completely as he more or less used it to shut both our investigation and Aria’s legal team down.”

Well that’s not good. “I thought the Ocrania Government was rather immune to bribery and the like?”

She shrugs, “I don’t know who told you that, but they’re wrong. And that’s coming from a former Lancer, not a member of the SCU. Though Orlin doesn’t seem like the type to take blackmail or bribes, I’ll give you that.”

You let out a stern “hrm” as you eye the looping footage. What in the world is going on here?

> [1] Surely you must have some idea who’s behind it, being a former Lancer and all.
> [2] Another mystery for another time I guess
> [3] Was there anything in the Fokir datapad I should know about?
> [4] What’s the deal with the Puppetmaster thing the SCU handled awhile back?
> [5] Write in

>>40682962
Possibly. There's certainly a good argument both ways depending on how people feel about the dice gods on any given day.

>>40682758
[3] I think it doesn’t matter at this point. What matters is what we do from here.

>>40683059
>[3] Was there anything in the Fokir datapad I should know about?

>>40683059
>> [1] Surely you must have some idea who’s behind it, being a former Lancer and all.
>> [3] Was there anything in the Fokir datapad I should know about?

>>40683059
> [3] Was there anything in the Fokir datapad I should know about?

>>40683059
>> [2] Another mystery for another time I guess

>>40683059
>> [1] Surely you must have some idea who’s behind it, being a former Lancer and all.
> [3] Was there anything in the Fokir datapad I should know about?

So does anyone think we haven't been bugged by at least one side?

>>40682962
thats a fucking retarded idea, there are very good reasons why we went to 4 rolls anon

>>40683152
Probably. Scu is likely going to bug us.

>>40683059
> [3] Was there anything in the Fokir datapad I should know about?

>>40682962
How about no.

>>40683152
I think for now they are more trying to bug our environment than ourselves considering our person is under so much scrutiny.

File: 1432654444941.png (2.93 MB, 2109x2154)

2.93 MB PNG

>>40683197
>going to

I believe just [3] has it. Back in a bit!

>>40683059
>a good argument both ways
Not really, more like reasonable arguments one way and statistically flawed arguments the other way, and we experienced the statistically flawed ones early on in this quest.

Besides it would make no sense to completely nerf every aspect of the characters performance after the upgrades he's just got and the training he'll get soon.

>>40683180
>>40683197
>>40683267

come on boys. We are bound to have bad luck every now and again. Bad rolls can be humorous

>>40683344
They *can* be humorous, but they rarely ever are, and in this quest, with the stakes and paranoia so high, they are not humorous. With the system as is we do and will get bad luck, with the way it was previous, we had nothing but bad luck.

>>40683059

After the third playback your eyes start to drift towards the other screens on the wall. On them are the schematics for your arms and legs as taken from the datapad. You still can’t make heads or tails of most of the details, but you do have someone more knowledgeable in this sort of thing at hand.

You shake your head and resume scribbling through the paperwork before you. As you do, you ask, “Guess it’ll remain a mystery for now. Was there anything on that datapad I should know about? Was it at least helpful?”

Mariet nods and spins to face the screens proper. You’re only able to glance up now and again but you see she’s pulling up different files and schematics. “Yep! There was a ton of data in there about how Fokir’s cybernetics interface with the natural nervous system. Really interesting and groundbreaking stuff from what I could make of it. But what really interested us was this.”

You see a visual of your arm pop up on one of the larger screens. It rotates slowly as Mariet resumes, “We didn’t understand what we were seeing at first. What we thought were extra synthetic nerves are actually energy conduits.”

“Meaning?”

“Meaning, and this is just a theory, Cathy and I think Aria’s somehow stolen our energy weapon technology, micro-sized it, and engineered it to run off of your body’s natural bioelectric energy.”

You stop mid-sentence at that. After setting your pen down you eye the exterior of your arms with renew interest. “So what you’re saying is… I can shoot little EMP bursts?”

Another nod. “Yup. But don’t ask me how you actually activate it. That much wasn’t in the datapad. My guess is as your body further adapts to the new nerve connections you’ll figure it out in time.”

“Guess that explains one mystery. A start at least.”

> [1] Focus on the paperwork for now
> [2] Ask about what else the SCU’s been up to besides Aria and you
> [3] Ask about the Puppetmaster incident
> [4] Write in

>>40683503
>> [3] Ask about the Puppetmaster incident

>>40683503
> [2] Ask about what else the SCU’s been up to besides Aria and you

I need to get some sleep as I've been up for nearly 30 hours at this point, thanks for running Iggy, anons, don't fuck things up.

>>40683503
> [2] Ask about what else the SCU’s been up to besides Aria and you

>>40683546 You give us too much credit.

>>40683503
>[3] Ask about the Puppetmaster incident

>>40683503
>[2] Ask about what else the SCU’s been up to besides Aria and you

>>40683546
An anon wants to see "interesting" things happen, of course things will be fucked up.

Also will we be having these threads more regularly from now on?

>>40683618
>An anon wants to see "interesting" things happen
Fuck those That Guy cunts, they do nothing but shit up and derail things into terribleness, they deserve to be lobotomized, see how 'interesting' that would be for them.

[2] it is, back in a bit!

>>40683642

Once a week really works best for me as opposed to multiple times a week. Yes, I realize that makes progression slow. But on the flip side that makes the occasional multiple session weeks more exciting and the sessions themselves more focused. Or so I think anyways.

>>40683503
>My guess is as your body further adapts to the new nerve connections you’ll figure it out in time.”
Ya gotta level up bitch.

>>40683503

This time when you return to your work there’s a period of silence between Mariet and you. Not an awkward one though, thanks to both of you having some form of task (though what Mariet’s is eludes you). For a moment you consider just cold asking about the Puppetmaster incident. But given your second-hand source it might lead to some awkward questions. Instead, you settle on a safer line of discussion.

“So… I miss anything else exciting like that Ambassador’s kid?”

Without looking up, Mariet replies, “We did bust a few more Spice dealers after combing through the information from that raid. Nothing too major though. Mostly just low level street peddlers that were trying to mosey into the turf of the group we removed. Aside from that… you missed the Chief’s birthday.”

“Shame. Guess I should wish her a belated birthday. Dare I ask how old she is?”

A chuckle meets your words. “She refused to tell us and it’s not in her file. Wouldn’t even let us put candles on her birthday cake in an attempt to guess it either.”

“...and there’s another mystery to replace the one we just solved.”

“Welcome to the life of the SCU, Weldon. No end to the puzzles and things to investigate. It’s why I came over from the Lancer side, among other reasons.”

“I’m beginning to see the appeal, sort of.”

> [1] Ask her to go into more depth about her past than what you already know
> [2] Finish up your paperwork so you can go investigate things on your own
> [3] Excuse yourself to go for a walk
> [4] Write in

>>40683930
> [2] Finish up your paperwork so you can go investigate things on your own

>>40683930
> [2] Finish up your paperwork so you can go investigate things on your own
Be the busybody!

>>40683930
>> [1] Ask her to go into more depth about her past than what you already know

>>40683930
You guys know, we're going to have to come up with some plots to ""kill"" cathy and to ""sabotage"" those files, we can do it literally or we can come up with a method of making it look like it was done, like figuring out which files we need to destroy, giving them a bit of time to put them in paper form, and then have them hide them in the warehouses worth of old evidence and paperwork they should have from all the crimes they've worked over the years. If Aria ever found it then it'd require the effort of dozens of people working our old shit job, so at a minimum we did a bunch of homeless people a solid.

>>40683930
>[3] Excuse yourself to go for a walk

>>40684060

>so at a minimum we did a bunch of homeless people a solid.
James Weldon: The people person.

>>40684060
Yeah we're not doing it legit, we're going to make it look like it was done while spiderwaifu watches over us from the shadows.

>>40684060
"killing" Cathy could be as simple as putting her in a different body without anyone knowing, and ensuring the destruction of the old one, though we will need to incinerate the brain case to remove evidence of her survival.

>>40684153
I think that body might have sentimental value to Cathy, so she'd need to get her folks to get her a sanitised one that we can rig up to look like it was her and she's dead, while she hides out.

>>40684153
You make it sound like destroying the brain case is hard, but we SHOULD put a cadaver brain in it regardless so theres organic material left on the scene to suggest death.

Anyway, the thing is that a tank killer can really only be taken down with extraordinarily large amounts of explosives. So we actually have an excuse for that amount of excessive force.

So we are definitely siding with cathy and scu?

>>40683930

It doesn’t take you all that long to finish your stack of documentation once you actually devote your full attention and effort to it. The motivation of investigating things on your own helps a little too.

“Annnnnd done,” you say as you sign off the last line with a flourish of your pen. “And with a few hours to spare before quitting time.”

Mariet lets out a hum, “Unless something comes up, of course. What will you do now?”

You give her a shrug of your own as you rise from the desk you’d lugged into her command center. “I thought I’d look into a few things on my own, see what I could turn up.”

“Oh?” She raises an eyebrow. “Where were you thinking of starting?”

> [1] Tracking down your old datapad so you can access the SCU net on the go
> [2] Finding an empty command center to do some research in
> [3] Seeing if any of your rapidly-dwindling external contacts have anything new
> [4] Write in

>>40684201
> [1] Tracking down your old datapad so you can access the SCU net on the go
> [2] Finding an empty command center to do some research in

>>40684201
>> [3] Seeing if any of your rapidly-dwindling external contacts have anything new

>>40684183
I wasnt referring to the brain case being difficult, I was saying we should incinerate it to prevent recovery of genetic material in the event Aria has a sample of Cathy's DNA to help confirm the kill.
I may be taking my shadowruns too far though.

>>40684201
>[2] Finding an empty command center to do some research in

>>40684201
> [1] Tracking down your old datapad so you can access the SCU net on the go

>>40684196
Yep.

>>40684239
The important things are that we make sure whatever cadaver brain is used has to be a female of the same general demograph, so that if they try using those basic markers to confirm it'll work (if it turns out the victim was male that would DEFINITELY sketch them out)

>>40684060
>Not actually doing it.

>>40684196

If we go by the last vote on the subject it's still close to an even split.

>>40684196
I'm all for them, and while I won't be casting my vote in with Aria, I'm not past giving her a chance to see the error of her ways and changing for the better if she's capable of it, and if she's not, then making sure her passing is a memorable one and her legacy is something worthwhile.

>>40684277
We will also need to make sure the brain has not been preserved, a fresh one is necessary. Preservative substances may be picked up or alter testing results. but what do we know, we aren't a scientist.

>>40684281
hey That Guy

piss off

>>40684303
not really, theres like one or two vocal ariafags who samefag pretty evidently

>>40684201
>> [2] Finding an empty command center to do some research in

>>40684303
It isn't, its more evenly split between trying to redeem Aria or letting her walk out of this mess at the end of things while siding with spiderwaifu.

>>40684352
>>40684334
I dunno about you guys. But I'm here to lead the world into a better future best Aria. SCU is nice and cozy and all, but I'd like our dystopian reality to be a little less so.

I think [1] and [2] are evenly split. So let's just combine them.

Now that said, one of those options comes with a roll. Standard 1d6 from 4 anons for now.

Also Re: which side - it's hard to say either way. Just try not to let it get out of hand.

>>40684417
Of course you assume that the SCU can't help with that and that Aria is the only solution. Way to be narrow minded and dumb.

Rolled 6 (1d6)

>>40684457

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>40684457

Rolled 5 (1d6)

>>40684457

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>40684457
re: which side, Iggy, don't even think about having that routelock for another couple threads, shit is already moving way to fast with the pacing pretty much destroyed at its current speed, we need time to process this shit and actually play the character in the world instead of just tick boxes on a political ballot

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>40684457

>>40684332
>but what do we know, we aren't a scientist.
Trust me, you aren't thinking like the paranoid do.

>>40684466
>>40684484
>>40684489
>>40684491

Yeah I'd say you pass. Back in a bit!

>>40684491

That was the idea for the next few threads.

>>40684196
Nah man.

>>40684503
I didn't think I was. The most basic level of thorough maybe but that's it.

>>40684466
>>40684484
>>40684489
See nerds 3 rolls are fine. BRING BACK 3 DICE!

>>40684514
>That was the idea for the next few threads.
Excellent, cause the pacing needs to slow down and the plot needs to move to the background or be put on hold for a while so we can just enjoy actually playing the character interacting with the world and others.

>>40684536
Let me know when you THINK you have multiple personality disorder and even you can not be trusted.

>>40684463
Last time I checked, Fokir was the only one actively trying. SCU is covert and behind the scenes. It's literally impossible for them to do stuff like Fokir. And we already did enough research on Raziel to confirm that they're military and high end augs only.

>>40684544
Thing is anon we rolled in thread one so many 1s and 2s it was painful. Not even rejoicefag level painful it went full 40k grimderp level painful.

>>40684544
Oh shut up and go fuck yourself with confirmation bias.

>>40684463
Well there is a third choice apparently.

>>40684562
>Last time I checked, Fokir was the only one actively trying
> And we already did enough research on Raziel to confirm that they're military and high end augs only.
We haven't even bothered to do any research or talk to anyone else about this.

So go sit in the corner and wear the dunce hat mister smartypants, you can sit with the rest of the class once you regain you're intelligence.

>>40684544
All of those were average or better yes, but your sample size is atrocious.

>>40684549
What? I basically meant I wasn't trying to be paranoid, where does thinking i have multiple personality disorder come in to this?

>>40684562
We've not even talked to anyone or asked about other companies and factions, you're basing everything off of second hand info we've overheard or been told without even questioning it or looking into it yourself. You're also wrong on all points.

>>40684201

You’re quick to reply, “I thought I might look into finding my old datapad or something like it. Having access to the SCU comms could come in handy if things go south with Aria.”

“Course it could also just give her the means to listen in on us,” posits Mariet. “Though I guess we could just run a secondary channel to interface with you…”

She pauses to think on this while you move towards the door. Before you leave proper she adds, “The Chief says it’s okay for now. But if you let anyone related to Aria get a hold of it…”

You wave her off. “Yeah yeah, Cathy will probably dismember me. I know. Thanks, Mariet.”

“Mhm. Have fun. You might try running by one of the labs or asking Cathy to make another. I’d do it myself but I’ve got other things I have to work on at the moment.”

“Fair enough.”

Thinking on how Cathy was earlier you decide to swing by one of the labs a few floors down. Along the way you’re able to scope out the perfect place to settle in and comb through a few records. There’s a lot of unused command centers and conference rooms in the SCU-controlled area, which leads you to believe they simply rent more space than they actually need for appearance’s sake. Suits you just fine.

As for the datapad, you comb through several labs and backrooms before finally arriving at a storeroom manned by a service android.

“How may I assist you?” it asks.

“It’s a long shot, but do you have my old datapad back there?”

“One moment please…” It’s head cocks to the side slightly. “Two datapads on file related to <Weldon, James>. Which do you require?”

> [1] The SCU’s
> [2] Aria’s
> [3] Both

>>40684755
> [3] Both

>>40684755
1

>>40684755
>[3] Both
>>40684633
>where does thinking i have multiple personality disorder come in to this?
Paranoia.

>>40684755
>[3] Both

>>40684625
>>40684669
If you bothered looking at past threads and applying reading comprehension, you'd know everything I'm saying is facts. Your ad hominem is adorable, but trite.

>>40314216
Cathy blinks slowly at you before replying, “I suppose you have a right to know since you’re walking into her den. Long story short, my last name is Raziel.” When she notes your blank stare she continues, “I’m the daughter of a CEO whose company competes with Fokir. Not directly, but still very much in the realm of cybernetics. We generally stick to military-grade stuff, whereas Fokir, and thus Aria, focuses more on the ‘common-man.’”

Directly from the daughter of the CEO. Raziel is Milspec and highend shit.

>>40502161
Overall you find that Raziel and Fokir have been vying to be the next big space company. Neither has been able to quite secure the market share required for the leap yet, but both have the backing and capability to succeed. A large portion of that comes down to the goings-on in Ocrania.

Raziel and Fokir are the two big dogs that can actually make change. You're supporting the military industry over a company that can actually help people, instead of giving the ruling elite more guns. How very noble of you.

>>40684755
>[2] Aria’s

>>40684755
> [1] The SCU’s

Don't need Aria's for this.

>>40684755
>> [3] Both

File: 1425351997077.jpg (47 KB, 500x463)

47 KB JPG

>>40684860
>Raziel and Fokir are the two big dogs that can actually make change. You're supporting the military industry over a company that can actually help people, instead of giving the ruling elite more guns. How very noble of you.

>>40684625
Christ, you're kind of a chode. I'm going to actively vote against your damn spiderwaifu now, just to spite you.

>>40684958
>spitevoting

No that faggot but now you are both cancer.

>>40684860
You're still pre supposing one cannot move to the other and that Fokir's motives are altruistic. This is a shadowrun cyberpunk setting, trying to make it "better" usually make it worse a hundred fold.

>>40685013
That is quitter talk.

>>40685039
Not quitting talk, just an observation of how the setting works.

>>40685013
>>40685067

There are a lot of tropes at play here, not just Shadowrun. And you're now actively becoming the cancer you oppose by taking things into meta. Meta-debate is freaking stupid, detracts from actual conversation, and is essentially a declaration that you can't find anything in the text/story to justify or support your side, so you're going to other materials, even if they're only tenuously related.

>>40685067
We should still try to make things better.

>>40684755

“Both please,” you reply.

The android gives you a small bow before disappearing into the rows of tools, instruments, and the like. It returns a few minutes later with two datapads and hands them both over.

“Do you require anything else?”

You shake your head. “Not unless you have something back there that can solve any of my growing list of mysteries.”

Again its head tilts. “I’m sorry, that input is not rec-” It stops mid-sentence, then continues, “Follow the Spice.”

You blink slowly. “Could you repeat that?”

“Of course. That input was not recognized.”

“Right…”

Well, with that out of the way you’re finally able to go sequester yourself in the command center you found earlier. There’s several terminals currently unpowered but you’re pretty sure they’re in working order. Both of your datapads are also operational. It’s just a matter of where to start.

> [1] Use a terminal to look into the SCU’s history
> [2] Use a terminal to look into Raziel’s history
> [3] See what you can find out about the puppetmaster incident
> [4] Write in

Also please do me a favor and take a sec to breathe before you get too involved with this argument. Discussion's fine, yelling at one another isn't.

>>40685119
> [2] Use a terminal to look into Raziel’s history

>>40685119
> [2] Use a terminal to look into Raziel’s history
Switching >>40685142

>>40685119
>> [3] See what you can find out about the puppetmaster incident
third waifu get.

>>40685119
>[4] Write in
Research the Spice, how it got started and by who.

>>40685075
I was just citing that Fokir may not be entirely as altruistic or benign as it said it was. I also observed that at times trying to "better" the world can make it worse. Road to hell and all.

>>40685099
Define better and then pray no one disputes you. "Better" is transitory and misleading. Arquebus were "better" than bows and yet bow still saw service for years because a skill archer could wreck a skilled gunsman. Better is variable and changing.

> [4] Write in
Research spice

>>40685119
>> [2] Use a terminal to look into Raziel’s history

>>40685200
Whatever the goals of Fokir may be, they are as a matter of principle, categorically better than the military industry's. There's nothing to be gained from having more weapons or better tanks, or better tank killers. There's a world of good to be had by making your citizens, stronger, healthy, more vital, and educated/capable. You can see right now how the wars are churning up people into the refuge that Aria is picking up and helping.

And conversely, the road to heaven will never be paved with bad intentions. If we don't try, we'll never get there in the first place. So that's what we have to do; try.

>>40685119
> [2] Use a terminal to look into Raziel’s history

>>40685280
>There's nothing to be gained from having more weapons or better tanks, or better tank killers.
Except in the fact the most useful advances in science come about from war.

>There's a world of good to be had by making your citizens, stronger, healthy, more vital, and educated/capable.
True unless you start pulling them like puppets on a string. You're thinking she's entirely benevolent to a fault anon, we already know better.
Point is take it all with a grain of salt.

Think we're starting with [2]. Back in a bit!

I'll include Spice in future choices.

>>40685319
That's bullshit. I keep hearing that tired old meme being spewed again and again. It's good for INNOVATION. Not Advancement. There's no new shit to be had when all of your academia is stuck in a workshop weaponizing science. No-one is going to build particle accelerators or try sub-dividing atoms when they're hired or conscripted to build neutron bombs.

War is good for putting to new uses what science and knowledge we have THEN. It will never result in more knowledge, I.E. actual Advancement. It just good for specializing knowledge into tactical uses. That's it.

>>40685377
What is atomic science?

>>40685411
Atomic science wasn't advanced during WW2. They didn't discover new particles. They didn't investigate the wave-length/particle debate. Scientists were put into a bunker and told to make a bomb that would smash Atom A into Atom B with X amount of explosives. They were there to smash tiny rocks into each other to make a big boom. There was no science or knowledge gained, unless you count rock smashing "advancement."

>>40685437
Yeah all there was plenty of advancement, because it also dealt with contain said "smahsed rocks" to enrich them and the after effects among other things. You're cherry picking.

>>40685465
That was a secondary effect and you know it. The main goal was smashing several pounds of enriched uranium into plutonium. Everything else was an afterthought. We could have made the same advances, and more general ones within without the war over a longer period.

>>40685119

The one thing you weren’t able to entirely confirm on the outside was how deep the SCU-Raziel connection goes. Really the only reason you know it exists is because you’ve heard as such from both Cathy and Aria. Now that you have access to the SCU’s systems though? You’ve got a chance to do some proper digging.

Even with your basic access account you’re able to pull up a surprising amount of information. As advertised, Raziel provides nearly 99% of all cybernetic-related weaponry, limbs, tools, and so on to the SCU. The other 1% comes from a variety of other companies from around the world, save from Fokir. Furthermore, you note that there’s a rather large amount of shipments from Raziel marked with a “P.” Tracing them you see that some were shipped back after trials in the field. Some transactions are even marked with monetary amounts. Prototype testing perhaps? It would fit everything you’ve learned thus far.

Outside of the SCU connection you do find a tad more documentation on Raziel’s current mission statement. Like Fokir, they are indeed trying to break into the space industry. The difference here is that there’s a militaristic undertone with Raziel: “Securing our Species’ Safety among the Stars.” It’s pretty different from the one you found from Fokir (“Opening the door to untold potentials in the heavens”). Putting two and two together, you guess that some of these prototypes are related to Raziel’s attempt to develop space-capable weaponry. Especially if the SMG you were given earlier is any indication.

The last thing you find with your access level is a picture from what must have been a Raziel company retreat. In it is Cathy, Hatos, and who must be Cathy’s father gathered around a rather opulent looking yacht.

You note down what you can for now. Then you move onto…

> [1] The Spice and how it flows
> [2] The Puppetmaster
> [3] More on the SCU
> [4] Write in

>>40685516
Cherry picking still. Humanity improves with conflict, whether is be survival or warfare that biggest leaps happen during and immediately after a major struggle happens.

>>40685596
>> [2] The Puppetmaster

>>40685596
> [2] The Puppetmaster

>>40685596
>[1] The Spice and how it flows

File: Prototype.webm (2.84 MB, 720x480)

2.84 MB WEBM

>>40685596
>Prototype testing perhaps?

>>40685605
That's not the point of our argument. The point is whether or not this improvement is mere innovation or actual advancement. Discerning the nature of radiation to understand cosmic microwave signals and the nature of the universe is advancement. Using science and building new innovative ways to destroy shit, isn't a advancement. It's just find new ways to destroy ourselves as a species. You really want to argue that nuclear bombs were a NET Positive in human history? The innovation that could have ended our entire race fifty times over if it weren't for literal saints of humanity with the good will and faith to trust their fellow man, when their computers fucked up and gave them false information? When their commanders were blind from ambition and hate and fed them lies? When their radar saw meteorites and told them to commit preemptive xenocide?

Stop shadowrunning man. It isn't healthy for you.

We need to prepair snarky responses for when the hacker chick, or Cathy fuck with random stuff.

>>40685596
>> [1] The Spice and how it flows

We atreides now

>>40685699
Just shut up already, both of you.

>>40685596
> [1] The Spice and how it flows

>>40685596
> [1] The Spice and how it flows

>>40685596
>> [1] The Spice and how it flows

>>40685596
>> [1] The Spice and how it flows

>>40685596
[1], the Spice

>>40685605
If you want to use nuclear advancement as an example, it might not be the best. All the nuclear advancement and research humanity did was to find better and more efficient ways to destroy entire portions of continents. When I read about the Tsar Bomba or the MOBA, I thank god that everyone signed that non-nuclear proliferation act.

[1] it is. Back in a bit!

>>40685814
>MOBA
Yeah LOL a shit.

>>40685814
>>40685840
Oh god, a digital bomb that converts all media systems and communications tech to only birds eye view, online arena games. That's the most evil thing I can imagine.

>>40685596

Given the android’s earlier comment you start looking into what the SCU has on the drug known as “Spice.” It was first discovered by accident somewhere around the middle of the 23rd century as part of the byproduct of a fuel refinement process. Sifting out the actual drug requires a fair amount of work, but the complexity of doing so is rather low. Really the only gate on production is the fact getting the initial byproduct source is troublesome. It’s tracked not only by every governing body on Meridian but also the corporations involved. Every drop of it is tracked from the moment it’s made to the moment it’s destroyed. So where then did the recent group get theirs?

You recall that Mariet had mentioned a few more busts and try to pull up that data. Sadly it doesn’t seem like there’s anything new there aside from a few new names and locations. When you plot them out on a map, you realize that the dens busted thus far have formed a sort of half-circle around the smallest space elevator. Perhaps there might be a larger pattern?

> [1] Stare at this further on your own
> [2] Move onto the Puppetmaster
> [3] See if you can’t get Mariet or someone else to help you with this

>>40686048

> [1] Stare at this further on your own

Maybe the drug is coming down from the elevator?

>>40685814
>All the nuclear advancement and research humanity did was to find better and more efficient ways to destroy entire portions of continents.
So you're saying nuclear research didn't lead to a more efficient energy source than coal, medical X-rays or smoke detectors?

Also,
>the MOBA
That's a conventional bomb, not nuclear.

>>40686048
>> [2] Move onto the Puppetmaster

>>40686048
>> [3] See if you can’t get Mariet or someone else to help you with this


>>40686087
That's precisely what I'm saying. All of the advancement those science firms and military complexes devised was for destroying millions of people. The refinement was a side-effect and on their own, the same advances would have been made by scientists not creating world ending weapons to arm fundamentally opposed superpowers.

>>40686048
>> [3] See if you can’t get Mariet or someone else to help you with this

No I in team

>>40686154
Except sometimes the advancement of one lead directly into the other because no one would have looked for it otherwise. Wars and large conflicts lead to innovation during and immediately after. Now can we please stop this shit and vote?

>>40686048
> [1] Stare at this further on your own

>>40686198
I'm ready to stop whenever you are. And have done so. You're the only one arguing this same meta-point.

>>40686048
> [3] See if you can’t get Mariet or someone else to help you with this

>>40686224
Except I didn't you started up again when another anon said something else. I dropped it earlier. Dropping again.

[3] it is by a vote. Back in a bit!

>>40686048
> [3] See if you can’t get Mariet or someone else to help you with this

>>40686048
> [1] Stare at this further on your own

anons arguing over which company is better than the other when the choice is clearly pick your preffered poison, for shame.

>>40686048

As much as you’d like to make a breakthrough on your own you need a little help with this. In consulting your SCU datapad you see that the once comprehensive list of staff has shrunk down to three names: Demian, Hatos, and Mariet. All of the others have vanished, even Cathy’s. You’re not sure how to feel about that for now.

In any case, you’re able to raise Mariet in short order. “Mmmm yes?” she asks.

“I was doing a bit of research on the Spice thing and could use a second pair of eyes. Is this all we have?”

You quickly outline what you’ve found out thus far (minus the android bit). Mariet muses over the information for a minute or so, then replies, “There’s two files you wouldn’t have access to using that basic level account. But I can’t exactly upgrade yours with the whole Aria thing going on. Hm. Tell you what, I’ll send you what you’re missing and see if that helps?”

> [1] Sounds fair to me
> [2] Think you could throw in one more thing?
> [3] If it’ll get you into trouble don’t worry about it
> [4] Write in

>>40686392
> [1] Sounds fair to me

>>40686392
>> [1] Sounds fair to me
Could the spice be coming down the elevator by any chance?

>>40686392
> [3] If it’ll get you into trouble don’t worry about it

>>40686392
>> [3] If it’ll get you into trouble don’t worry about it
We have a cover to maintain.

>>40686392
> [1] Sounds fair to me

>>40686392
1 and 3.

>>40686392

> [3] If it’ll get you into trouble don’t worry about it

>>40686392

> Since they're tied more or less

“Sounds fair to me,” you shoot back. “Though if it’ll get you into trouble don’t worry about it.”

“Hah. You’re talking to the woman in charge of managing the logs in the first place. Just answer me this and I’ll send the stuff over - why the sudden interest in Spice? You didn’t get addicted to the stuff while you were away, did you?”

You're not sure if that's concern or teasing.

“No, but thanks for your concern. The truth is…”

> [1] You just wanted to be useful to the SCU on something that wasn’t Aria
> [2] An android gave you a strange message earlier
> [3] Make something up
> [4] Write in

>>40686610
>> [1] You just wanted to be useful to the SCU on something that wasn’t Aria

>>40686610
> [1] You just wanted to be useful to the SCU on something that wasn’t Aria
Since this is the only other big thing...

>>40686610
>[1] You just wanted to be useful to the SCU on something that wasn’t Aria

>>40686610
> [4] Write in
I just feel that something's off about the whole spice raid. Technically all the fuel byproduct are monitored by the government and the corps. So how does it get to the streets?

>>40686610
> [2] An android gave you a strange message earlier

The Puppet Master is trying to get out.

>>40686610

“...I just wanted to be useful on something that wasn’t Aria. Plus I feel like there’s something we’re all missing. How is the drug getting onto the streets if the initial substance is highly regulated and controlled? Could it be coming down from the elevator?”

The terminal you’re working on beeps as two new files pop up on the display. “It’s possible,” replies Mariet. “There’s not as much scrutiny on what comes down as what goes up. But that’s about all I can give you in the way for help at the moment. Good luck!”

In staring at the new information, you realize that your initial assumption that the dens and such formed a circle was incorrect. It’s actually a spiral leading out from the elevator itself. The reason you weren’t able to see the last two data points was because they were classified due to their proximity to the elevator. Apparently the government of Ocrania doesn’t want word getting out that the control they have over the immediate areas surrounding the lifts isn’t as tight as they want people to believe. Still, this is a good bit of guesswork. You just need to find something that’s missing.

After staring at the map and the reports for a little while longer, you realize that there’s another point missing. Not due to classification though, as the area where there should be *something* is well outside the elevator’s boundaries. Which means if your hunch is right, either there’s another bust to be made there, or the android wanted you to go there. Hard to say which really.

> [1] Start hoofing your way out there now. Almost quitting time anyways.
> [2] See if you can pull up anything more on a topic while you’re connected to the SCU (Write in)
> [3] Tell the Chief what you’ve found out and call it a day

>>40686610
> [2] An android gave you a strange message earlier

>>40686974
> [1] Start hoofing your way out there now. Almost quitting time anyways.

>>40686974
>> [2] See if you can pull up anything more on a topic while you’re connected to the SCU
Look up the Puppetmaster.

>>40687047
>{2] See if you can pull up anything more on a topic while you’re connected to the SCU
>Look up the Puppetmaster

I second this

>>40686974
> [1] Start hoofing your way out there now. Almost quitting time anyways.
With weapons(hidden) and armor yes?
Our torso is still a bit squishy. Also binoculars, regular ones without all the bells and whistles if possible.

>>40686974
> [2] See if you can pull up anything more on a topic while you’re connected to the SCU
>Look up the Puppetmaster.

Not going to another drug den without backup.

Since [2]'s won it's rolling time again. This time the DC's a little higher than usual (10 to be specific) due to the nature of the account you're using and your own computer skills.

File: yeap.gif (662 KB, 496x279)

662 KB GIF

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>40687222
I'm feeling good.

Rolled 6 (1d6)

>>40687222

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>40687222

Rolled 2 (1d6)

>>40687222

Rolled 1 (1d6)

>>40687222
Come on, give daddy a six baby. Just add those trips together, and we're fiiine.

>>40687253
You absolute legend. I salute you.

>>40687243
>>40687253
>>40687254

Hmmmm looks like 3 dice won again. 4 dicers are getting btfo!

>>40687243
>>40687253
>>40687254
>>40687257

Yep. That'll do. You get something! Though you may not like what you get.

Back in a bit!

>>40686974

You’re guessing that your account’s access level isn’t going to be enough to pull up information on the Puppetmaster incident wholesale. But maybe you can get bits and pieces by phrasing your queries in a creative fashion. You start by looking at what logs exist around the dates corresponding with the “Mad Spring.” In the process you realize two things:

1. The SCU’s definitely been around a lot longer than the three years you’d initially thought. There’s logs dating back to when you’re guessing Cathy got picked up by Hatos.

2. There’s a huge hole in data in general over the period in question. Someone’s deliberately erased rather than classified whatever data was there. Or so you’re guessing based on the multiple dead links and references that don’t throw up warnings when you try and access them.

Really, the only thing you’re able to accurately get out of the SCU’s system is that the Android model involved is a match for the one that interfaced with you in the lab earlier. But the SCU doesn’t have any of those Android types in its employ.

To make matters worse, when you go to collect your datapads you realize that there’s a little green hummingbird flitting around between the two screens.

> [1] Try to talk to it
> [2] Turn off the pads and stow them quickly
> [3] Write in

>>40687400
> [3] Write in
Poke it with a pencil.

>>40687400
> [1] Try to talk to it

>>40687400
>> [1] Try to talk to it
What does the little bird have to say to the rabbit?

>>40687400


>>40687428
seconding this

>>40687400
>> [2] Turn off the pads and stow them quickly

>>40687400
>[1] Try to talk to it

[1] has it by a vote.

But what are you going to say?

> We'll try a write in. You've got 15 minutes.

>>40687571
What does the little bird have to say to the rabbit?

>>40687447
>>40687603

This a reference to something?

>>40687685
No? We're the rabbit. Running down holes, with ears perked up for any hints. The bird is self explanatory.

>>40687571

How about just "Hi?" We don't need to get all philosophical with what might just be a little proxy program thing.

I still say that thia is like one of those 10ft pole required situations.

That being said, stare expectantly.

>>40687571
how far does this rabbit hole go?

This will do
>>40687791

Hrm. I'm not so sure the rabbit thing is at all in character. Sorry.

I'll run with one of the other two suggestions though. Back in a bit!

>>40687400

You’re no expert but you’re pretty sure neither datapad came with an assistant app. And they sure as hell weren’t linked to one another before now. So that means whatever this bird is, be it an avatar, program, or something else entirely, is behind it. You have to be cautious.

Tentatively you pick up both pads and hold them at elbow’s length. You watch as the bird flies back and forth for a moment then turns to face you. It stares at you, its head twitching slightly every few seconds. Just as you’re about to say something, it pops up a little text bubble:

“Come along, Weldon.”

Then it explodes in a colorful display across both datapads. When it fades you see a map of Ocrania. More specifically a map of the area that’s missing from the Spice plots. One building in particular is highlighted in green.

> [1] Yeahhh you’re going to need to get someone else to help you on this
> [2] Well if it knows your name and can put androids in the SCU’s building, it can’t be all bad, right?
> [3] Nope.jpg
> [4] Write in

>>40687946
>> [2] Well if it knows your name and can put androids in the SCU’s building, it can’t be all bad, right?

>>40687946
>> [2] Well if it knows your name and can put androids in the SCU’s building, it can’t be all bad, right?

>>40687946
> [2] Well if it knows your name and can put androids in the SCU’s building, it can’t be all bad, right?
Surreptiously text chief, mari or cahty.

>>40687946
"show me the way 'lil birdie I'll play your game."

>>40687946
> [2] Well if it knows your name and can put androids in the SCU’s building, it can’t be all bad, right?>>40687835

>>40687946
> [1] Yeahhh you’re going to need to get someone else to help you on this

>>40687946

The way you see it, if whatever force is behind this thing can infiltrate the SCU without being noticed then you don’t really have much to worry about. If it wanted you dead it probably could have done so six ways from Sunday. Or maybe it’s just luring you out of your comfort zone to make it so you’re more easily disposed. You really don’t know. But you’re pretty sure this isn’t Mariet’s way of getting back at you for the vent thing. Key words being: pretty sure.

On the way out of the building you stop by the armory to see Demian. No sense heading off unarmed into what could be a trap. He’s currently in the middle of cleaning a rifle when you poke your head in.

“Ah, is Weldon! What can I be doing for you?”

You nod your head slightly and step further into the room. “I thought I should get a replacement for that SMG. Just in case, you know?”

Demian nods and sets the rifle aside. “Is very good idea. But one problem: Chief is restricting you to simple ballistics only.”

“Dare I ask why?”

He shrugs, “No idea. But you are welcome to be taking either the .357 or the .45.”

> [1] The revolver
> [2] The standard issue
> [3] Never mind

>>40688201
> [2] The standard issue

>>40688201
>> [2] The standard issue
Can we get some body armor? Just a plate carrier or something?

>>40688201
> [1] The revolver
Can we get a Mateba Autorevolver?
Cause that's sexy and stuff.

>>40688201
> [1] The revolver

>>40687946
>> [2] Well if it knows your name and can put androids in the SCU’s building, it can’t be all bad, right?

Firearm decisions are apparently a sticking point as well. I'll tie break so we can keep moving. Back in a bit!

>>40688201
>> [1] The revolver

>>40688201
>[1] The revolver

>>40688201
> [1] The revolver

Serious question here. We already have the art of Aria. When are we getting some art of Cathy?

>>40688201

You think on it for a few minutes, weighing what pros and cons you know about the two handguns. Finally you respond, “I’ll take the .357. If six bullets doesn’t get the job done then I have bigger problems to worry about.”

The rangemaster beams back at you. “While a fine choice you would be being surprised how many times even 600 bullets does not solve problem. At least this will not jam though.”

He slides over the autorevolver you passed up for the SMG. Then he returns to his cleaning. “Be taking care, yes? Cathy is in bad mood. I do not need to be mind reader to figure out why, eh?”

A sigh passes from your lungs as you pocket your new boomstick, “Yeah… Thanks Demian.”

After that you’re out of the SCU building in short order. Actually walking to the location displayed on the map takes you close to two hours. Mostly due to the fact you’re having to go one district down and because you’re moving against the flow of foot traffic. Still, it gives you time to think and take in your surroundings.

Ever since getting your surgery you’ve been a little less wary of people with even a single cybernetic arm. You can empathize with them now, making them seem all the more human. Despite that you definitely stick out while in the high district due to all the full body prosthetics. Not as badly as before, but still enough you feel a little on edge. You’ve only really just gotten used to the new flow and rhythm of the streets near your new apartment, and that’s because you spent the better part of three days walking them. It’s not much but you definitely feel like you belong there a helluva lot more than you do here.

> cont

>>40688681

When you pass through the security gate down into the middle district your phone vibrates. The moment you open it up to check you see a familiar looking little bird on the screen.

“You’ve got mail! :D”

This time when the explosion fades you see two messages, the taglines reading:

## Ms. Mizuno: I just wanted to see how your first day went and to let you know I’ve been think- ##

## Cathy: I may have overreacted. Care for pizza later? I have to inspect your apartment anyw- ##

Great.

> [1] Deal with Aria’s message first
> [2] Deal with Cathy’s message first
> [3] Ignore them both for now

>>40688632

Aria I've had art for since first using her in a Shadowrun game way from several years back. Cathy... not so much. There's a sketchy version of her out there which I don't have on this computer. But it's been posted before.

>>40688712
> [1] Deal with Aria’s message first

>>40688712
> [3] Ignore them both for now

File: Hetza Spider.jpg (143 KB, 850x532)

143 KB JPG

>>40688712
>[3] Ignore them both for now
Got bigger fish to fry

>>40688632
I always kind of imagined something like this
Then again, I can't remember her description

>>40688712
>> [2] Deal with Cathy’s message first

>>40688712
>> [1] Deal with Aria’s message first

>>40688712
1

>>40688712
> [1] Deal with Aria’s message first

>>40688712
>[1] Deal with Aria’s message first

>>40688712
> [1] Deal with Aria's message first

>>40688712
>Deal with Aria’s message first
Read it at least, We can still go for pizza with the spider.

File: Muju come back ;_;.png (1.18 MB, 2122x1500)

1.18 MB PNG

Think we're starting off with [1]. Back in a bit!

And before any in the Cathy camp worry, they're emails and you have plenty of time to read/respond to both between here and there.

>>40688774

Swapped computers. Closest I have is this

>>40688712
> [1] Deal with Aria’s message first
Heyyo gon b doin sum of dat old skool detective work ya dig?

Seriously though,we're busy solidifying our cover. Thanks for checking in.

>>40688712

You might as well start at the top, even with this mysterious third party watching your every move.

Aria’s message is as follows:

##
I just wanted to see how your first day went and to let you know I’ve been thinking about you. Not too much though, since I’ve heard from my assistant that you’re a little more traditional. I’m mostly just concerned whether the SCU’s actually letting you in or if they’re stonewalling you. Either is fine but it’d help if you weren’t totally miserable.

Are we still on for this Friday? Or would you like some more time? I really want to see you again.
-A
##

“Wow. She likes you a lot,” text bubbles the bird as it flies back into view.

“Shush you,” you reply back. It’s enough to send the bird back off-screen.

How to reply…

> Make sure to pick an option from each part!

Part A:
> [1] I’m flattered
> [2] I’m a little more traditional, yeah.

Part B:
> [3] Things are going fine with the SCU. Nothing interesting to report.
> [4] I’m actually solidifying my cover now with a little detective work.

Part C:
> [5] Sure, let’s do Friday
> [6] I could use some more time.

> If you have a write-in just do that instead of picking options

>>40688999
>> [1] I’m flattered
>> [2] I’m a little more traditional, yeah.

> [4] I’m actually solidifying my cover now with a little detective work.

> [5] Sure, let’s do Friday

>>40688999
> [1] I’m flattered
> [4] I’m actually solidifying my cover now with a little detective work.
> [5] Sure, let’s do Friday

>>40688999
> [1] I’m flattered
> [2] I’m a little more traditional, yeah.

> [4] I’m actually solidifying my cover now with a little detective work.

> [5] Sure, let’s do Friday

>>40688999
>> [2] I’m a little more traditional, yeah.
> [4] I’m actually solidifying my cover now with a little detective work.
> [5] Sure, let’s do Friday

>>40688999
> [1] I’m flattered
> [4] I’m actually solidifying my cover now with a little detective work.
> [5] Sure, let’s do Friday

>>40688999
> [1] I’m flattered
> [3] Things are going fine with the SCU. Nothing interesting to report. (I'd go with 4 but I don't trust our communication)
> [5] Sure, let’s do Friday

>>40688999
> [1] I’m flattered
>> [3] Things are going fine with the SCU. Nothing interesting to report
> [5] Sure, let’s do Friday

File: 1400779001908.png (291 KB, 632x409)

291 KB PNG

>>40688681
This our gun?

>>40688999
1 4 5

>>40688999
>you’re a little more traditional.
What does that mean?

>>40688999
> [2] I’m a little more traditional, yeah.

> [3] Things are going fine with the SCU. Nothing interesting to report.

> [6] I could use some more time.

>>40689070

It's a futuristic Mateba. Flavor that how you will.

>>40689082

It's her way of saying "Sis says I might be coming on too strong"

>>40688999

Part A
> [2]
Part B
> [3]
> [5] Friday sounds good. Mind if I pick where we go out for dinner?

Yes, let's go on another date with the paranoid "collateral damage" girl while there's still a huge spider tank pissed at us. This is so smart.

Assuming I can count properly...

[1], [4], and [5]

Back in a bit!

>>40689138
did you not read Cathy's message?

>>40689091
Honestly, I would see it fit the character if we held off the more 'serious' bits until the third date, because lets face it, we'd bring nothing to the table with a relationship that she doesn't have already or could be obtained elsewhere.

File: 48499-1-1354478963.jpg (715 KB, 1600x940)

715 KB JPG

>>40689091
Something like this?

>>40688999
> [2] I’m a little more traditional, yeah.
> [4] I’m actually solidifying my cover now with a little detective work.
> [6] I could use some more time.

>>40689138
Spider girl calmed down.

>>40689167
>>40689183
It's only saying she's open to calming down with a little explanation. If we go off and set up another date with Aria before explaining ourselves, she's hardly going to be calm.

>>40689208
Well, we can go on a date with her as long as we convince Cathy its the more casual interpretation of date.

>>40689208
>>40689183
>>40689225
so the plan with aria is to go slow and steady with her. is this correct?

>>40688999

Your reply is quick and to the point:

##
I’m flattered, really. We’ll talk about it more on Friday, but only if I can pick where we go. Also, SCU thing is going great. I’m actually doing something to sell my cover better. Talk to you soon.
##

As soon as you hit send your new “friend” is back.

“Well that’s sweet. Would you like to see the other message now?” You glare at the bird, causing it to shrink under your gaze. “Okay fine :(“

Cathy’s message is as follows:

##
I may have overreacted. Care for pizza later? I have to inspect your apartment anyways for bugs or other Aria-flavored surprises. Heard from Mariet you’re looking into something with the Spice business. Yell if you need help.
##

Hm…

Part A:
> [1] Tonight’s not so good. Tomorrow maybe?
> [2] If you don’t mind after midnight, sure. Let’s do pizza.

Part B:
> [3] I haven’t found anything but you’re welcome to check
> [4] Wouldn’t it be safer to meet elsewhere?

Part C:
> [5] I’ll be fine
> [6] If you don’t hear from me in an hour, come to this address

Aria
>Born to a rich family
>Never worked a real day in her life
>get a bunch of free gifts from dad
>basically now a deluded champagne socialist

Cathy
>Born to a rich family
>Joined the military
>became a war hero
>putting her skills to use in the war against drugs as a cop, making society better one small step at a time in a real way
>lives a modest life with her pet kot

Justify this now ariafags...

>>40689290
> [2] If you don’t mind after midnight, sure. Let’s do pizza.
> [3] I haven’t found anything but you’re welcome to check
> [5] I’ll be fine
but thanks for the concern

File: Deal with it.gif (904 KB, 450x252)

904 KB GIF

>>40689292
I don't like spiders, and Lizardgirls are my fetish.

>>40689285


Personally, still on the fence, leaning towards Cathy, Aria seems a little too intense for my taste. though I agree more with her goals.

>>40689290
> [2] If you don’t mind after midnight, sure. Let’s do pizza.

> [3] I haven’t found anything but you’re welcome to check

> [6] If you don’t hear from me in an hour, come to this address

>>40689290
> [2] If you don’t mind after midnight, sure. Let’s do pizza.

> [3] I haven’t found anything but you’re welcome to check

> [6] If you don’t hear from me in an hour, come to this address

>>40689290
> [2] If you don’t mind after midnight, sure. Let’s do pizza.
> [3] I haven’t found anything but you’re welcome to check
> [5] I’ll be fine, but thanks for the concern

>>40689290
> [2] If you don’t mind after midnight, sure. Let’s do pizza.
> [3] I haven’t found anything but you’re welcome to check
> [6] If you don’t hear from me in an hour, come to this address

And of course captcha asks for pizza to post this.

>>40689290
> [2] If you don’t mind after midnight, sure. Let’s do pizza.
> [3] I haven’t found anything but you’re welcome to check
> [6] If you don’t hear from me in an hour, come to this address

>>40689292
I don't think she's a deluded champagne socialist, she's smarter than that, but I do think there's a disconnect between what she knows and what she thinks she knows. She also seems more dishonest about her work and her aims. I trust Cathy much much more.

>>40689091
>He doesn't like hot girls coming on to him.

Can we see a doctor about that? I am sure they have pills or something for that.

[2], [3], and [6] I believe.

Back in a bit!

>>40689389
Hot girls coming on to you is one thing, but some women can be a bit too aggressive, and it can be off putting. what someone defines as too aggressive is entirely subjective

>>40689378
>I trust Cathy much much more.
I trust Cathy more than I trust Aria but I trust who and what Aria trusts more than I trust who and what Cathy trusts.

>>40685377
>Internet
>Supersonic flight
>Initial rocket tech needed for space flight
>GPS
>Military research has never advanced mankind

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21 KB JPG

>>40689292
Aria
>inherited a fairly powerful company
>capable of bugging your shit thoroughly
>isn't a deluded "hey, let's just ignore all these people down there, kayy" idiot
>actually does something to help these people out
>socially inept
Cathy
>left her company because working is for retards amirite
>probably got conscripted
>survived so hard she got a corny nickname
>putting a stop to middle-upper class snorting the coke spice, one drug bust at a time

>>40689454
>it can be off putting.
Well I mean if your gay.

I guess except if your /u/.

>>40689378
That just means that any percieved betrayal on Cathy's part will hit all the harder, or the SCU for that matter, and if she had to chose between us and them, I have no doubts that she'd chose the SCU every time barring something blatantly evil like Mecha Hitler, The Return of Hitler - andeven then, it's iffy.

>>40689478
>if you're gay.
Troll detected, feed at your leisure.

>>40689461
>>left her company because working is for retards amirite
Her brother is head of the company she never had a chance at and had no desire to
>probably got conscripted
Someone that wealthy getting conscripted? kek
>survived so hard she got a corny nickname
If it was mere survival her nickname would be different.
>putting a stop to middle-upper class snorting the coke spice, one drug bust at a time
This is just SCU latest thing, they catch lawbreakers.

>>40689290

The message you send to Cathy is just as brief:
##
Assuming you hear from me in an hour, yeah let’s do pizza. Might be after Midnight though. And if you don’t hear from me then go to the following…
##

Again the bird reappears after you hit send.

“You’re nice to them. Why do you look so angry when you look at me?”

“Maybe because I have no idea what you are and who’s controlling you?” you retort down at your phone. Luckily it’s late enough in the evening that you don’t look too crazy.

“She sent me to be your new assistant! Your security was really really bad but I’m here to help :D”

Oh. Well that’s good. Maybe. Depends who this “she” is.

“And if I don’t want your help?”

The bird manages to frown despite the beak somehow. Damn it it’s a pixelated bird! Why is it trying to play with your emotions?!

“Then I go poof back off to the net. But I’m a really really good assistant!”

“Right…”

With that you close your phone and put it back in your pocket. You’re getting close to the mapped out location anyways. From the outside it looks like a fairly standard, if not slightly run-down, hotel complex. The only lights that are on are at the front desk and a window on the second floor. There are no cars in the lot and the sign out front isn’t lit.

> [1] Play it cool and walk in like nothing’s wrong
> [2] Slowly sneak up with your revolver at the ready
> [3] Consult the bird
> [4] Write in

Honestly, both are valid options, alternatively I have multiple bad ends involving both options as well, especially seeing we're either going to have to ""kill"" cathy, or actually kill her, so theres quite a good chance our potential waifu for either option will be the death of us, with additional chance of BOTH killing us together.

>>40689570
>> [1] Play it cool and walk in like nothing’s wrong

>>40689570

> [1] Play it cool and walk in like nothing’s wrong

>>40689570
> [3] Consult the bird
>What are you anyway?

Are AIs even a thing in this setting? Also I assume that Virtual Intelligence is far more common either way.

>>40689575
You know we could just nerf Cathy.

And that is a far off thing. See mostly just wants the info and such.

>>40689570
> [1] Play it cool and walk in like nothing’s wrong

>>40689570
>> [4] Write in
"and who is she?"

>>40689570
> [3] Consult the bird
"do you have a name? if not I'm just gonna call ya Tweet"

>>40689598

VIs yes. AIs generally are reserved to starships only. Even then, think more Cortana than Skynet.

As someone who has followed eclipse phase, you should NEVER trust an intelligent entity that broke in through your firewall and is talking to you reasonably, its either manipulating you, cleaning out every bit of dirt on you ever, or about to turn you into a gibbering psychopath.

>>40689634
Well our brain isn't linked up, and dirt on us was already aired, so the first one is most likely.

>>40689570
>> [2] Slowly sneak up with your revolver at the ready

>>40689634
>As someone who has followed eclipse phase
This isn't eclipse phase.

>>40689666
That is true, the big difference between shadowrun and eclipse phase (other than the earth being wrecked in EP), is that you have to actually be mentally linked up to be mindfucked in shadowrun while you can be infected by memetic viruses that can do all sorts of horrific shit to you if you look or hear the wrong thing at the wrong time.

>>40689716
Glad this isn't eclipse phase then.

Well we're tied assuming that one [4] is tacking on to [3] as well. I'll give it a bit then tiebreak if needed.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>40689784

Survey says...

Hmmm was our salary ever discussed? How much do we get a week working for the scu?

>>40689957
Honestly, we're getting three seperate paychecks now, One from Aria and two from SCU. I assume we're getting paid the same wage twice in SCU but not sure with Aria.

>>40689957
Lets leave it a mystery box! be pleasantly surprised when we realize our first paycheck used to be 10 years of salary.

>>40689570

It’s all very ominous but again you’re not too worried. Between Cathy and Aria you at least know that if you’re hurt or killed here you’ll be avenged with overwhelming force. Plus it’s not like you can just back out now after coming all this way. And going in with your weapon drawn might give the wrong impression. So you choose to trust in the guiding hand that’s been spiriting you along and walk into the hotel as normally as possible.

Behind the front desk is another service android of the same model as the one you interfaced with back in the SCU building. This one is more identifiably a male version though, right down to the concierge vest it’s wearing.

“Good evening, Sir,” it says respectfully as it bows its head. “The Madam is waiting for you in Room 202. Please do not delay, as our time is short.”

You look it, him, up and down appraisingly. “Do I get anything more than that before meeting this ‘Madam?’”

All you get back is, “Please do not delay.”

Lovely fellow, really. In any case you soon climb the interior stairs up to the second floor and make your way towards the room in question. The door’s already open and from inside you can hear a television.

“Come onnnnnn James,” you hear a female voice whine. “It doesn’t take THAT long to walk up here. What are you doing? Knew I should have picked a place with better cameras.”

> [1] Knock as you enter
> [2] Barge on in
> [3] Announce yourself out in the hallway
> [4] Write in

>>40689957
You get one pizza and a smile from Cathy

No but really mystery box is about right.

>>40690041
> [2] Barge on in

>>40690041
>[3] Announce yourself out in the hallway

Hatos wants the D

>>40690041
>> [4] Write in
"Leave one outside your door." Then walk in.

>>40690041
>> [1] Knock as you enter
Lets see if we can now become a QUADRUPEDAL AGENT!

>>40690041
> [2] Barge on in

>>40690041
>> [1] Knock as you enter

>>40690072
this will make us A triple agent though

>>40690116
We are already a triple agent. We are an SCU agent spying on Aria spying on SCU.

>>40690041
> [3] Announce yourself out in the hallway

>>40689995
>two from SCU
No, we're getting one. Remember, to Aria, we're the replacement for the guy who "ran off."

>>40690041
>> [1] Knock as you enter
> [4] Write in
"i take it you're the one who gave me this bird."

>>40690072
Quadrupedal? I dont think we can handle that many legs yet.

>>40690068
Is it that hard to just write "Get fucked"?

>>40690143

If she's HORSU PUSSY we riot.

>>40690135
Yes, we're getting one on the books and one off the books, as well as arias money off the books.

>>40689570
>“She sent me to be your new assistant! Your security was really really bad but I’m here to help :D”
Dude, "she" is best bird, isn't she?

>>40690160
What about secret trap/futa option?
>Implying thats totally not aria.

>>40690182
Wouldn't stop me.

>>40690182
>Implying they dont have the option for a full package sex reassignment

[1] with a little write in flavor I think. Back in a bit

>>40690225
I can't wait for the future.