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>>42483372

Leo types something as he replies, “She’s the only one who’s replied out of all of them. Most of them had disconnected lines and I left messages with the couple who didn’t pick up.”

You nod as you begin walking towards the Rapid Transit Station, Leo falling into step behind you. “Where do we meet her?”

“A bar in Outer Zakera Ward, Level 19. Place called Tarfing’s.”

You nod as you slide into the front seat of the automated cab and enter the destination into the navigation system, “Mind giving me the rundown on who we’re meeting?”

Leo sits down in the seat next to yours and pulls up a picture on his omni-tool. It’s a symbol of sorts, a black scorpion’s tale in an irregular hexagon. “Ever heard of Manticore Interstellar?”

You snort as the cab takes off, “Can’t say I have.”

“Didn’t think so,” your LT replies. “Tiny-ass merc group but well-trained and well-equipped. Got bought up by the Blue Suns a few years ago which is why my contact went solo.”

“Smart move.” Considering the fact that the Blue Suns are little more than a criminal empire masquerading as a military corporation, you can see why someone wouldn’t want to join.

>[CONT.]

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>>42483444

“Anyways,” Leo continues. “Her name is Jaroslava Vlcek. Prefers to be called Jaro. Little over 15 years on the job. Last time I worked with her was a little over five years ago. Real beast on the battlefield. Soaks up a ton of fire and gives as good as she gets. Alliance would probably give her a Shock Trooper designation.”

“How about personality?” You ask him as the cab slips into the traffic stream.

“Aggressive, rough and tumble kinda gal,” he replies, his accent twanging a little. “But she’s loyal, to more than just the paycheck. Provided you’re a good employer, of course.”

You raise an eyebrow, “And what exactly is a ‘good employer’?”

Leo grins. “She never told me. All I know is that I qualify. Therefore, ‘handsome, charming, and drop-dead sexy’ must be requirements.”

He starts laughing as you punch him in the shoulder.
_

The cab swoops out of the traffic stream and banks towards the outer end of Zakera Ward. From here you can see the parts of Zakera that are still being repaired, although the damaged areas are few and far between. You heard that Zakera had taken the least amount of damage during the Battle of the Citadel, and it’s pretty evident now.

>[CONT.]

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>>42483488

Soon enough, the cab touches down in a seedier area of the Ward, judging from the rougher cut of the clothing and wary looks of the civilians. You think that a couple of hoods were eying the two of you up, but immediately backed off when they saw the N7 logos on your jackets.

Leo leads the way through the streets, stopping in front of a surprisingly well-kept establishment. Tarfing’s is a bar. That just so happens to have a strip club attached. You glance questioningly at Leo and he shrugs in reply. Sighing, you walk through the automatic doors and take a good first look around the bar.

First thing you notice is the bouncers. Several Turians, humans and a single Krogan, lightly armed and spread throughout the room. The room is large with a bar on the far wall, manned by two asari bartenders and surrounded by barstools. Two holoscreens float above the wall, one displaying a Biotiball game and the other an Urban Combat Match.

Several tables, some occupied, are spread around the room and multiple booths are attached to the walls. Some of those booths have privacy screens activated, hiding their occupants behind polarized glass. The loud blur of overlapping conversation invades your eats and the heady mix of cigarette smoke and alcohol dominates your nose. A door on the rightmost wall leads to the strip club area, judging from the muffled music that’s coming from that direction.

>[CONT.]

>>42483520

Leo taps your shoulder and points at a woman sitting at the bar. She’s big, well over six feet, and muscular to match. There’s a half-empty drink in front of her, but it appears to have been forgotten as she’s looking up towards the Urban Combat match. Her body language tells you she’s relaxed, and genuinely engrossed in what’s she’s watching.

“That’s her,” Leo murmurs to you. “How do you want to play this?”

>Response/Action?
>Direct Approach
>Observe for a bit
>Ask Leo
>[Write-In]

>>42483540
>>Direct Approach

Lets see how this merc is. Might as well be upfront and direct about it. A mercenary/soldier will appreciate that approach.

>>42483540
>Direct Approach

>>42483540
Buy her a drink, bitches loves drinks.

>>42483540
>Direct Approach
No other way, the way I see it.

>>42483686
She's already got a drink, mate. And we're looking to hire her, not bed her.

Well, okay, I am aware of where I am, bedding is probably in the plans eventually, but that's not the purpose of this visit. Besides, she'll probably recognize Leo and the jig will be up.

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“Let's not draw this out,” You murmur back to Leo and begin making your way to the bar, Leo trailing behind you.

As you approach her, you note her other features. Pale skin, brown hair, worn civvies with combat boots. She’s got scars, lots of them, from straight slashing wounds to puckered bulletholes. There’s a tattoo of two oddly familiar Chinese or Japanese characters on the left side of her neck, just barely missing being bisected by a ridiculously straight scar.

Settling down in the seat to her left, you finally get a good look at her face. Her features are… striking. High cheekbones, strong jaw, dark eyes and a vaguely Eastern European cast. There are a few creases here and there, lines likely brought about by the stress of a mercenary’s life. Her eyes briefly sweep over you before turning back to the screen. Grabbing her glass, she quickly drains the remaining liquid.

“Hello,” You begin. “You must be Jaroslava Vlcek.”

She grunts and responds without looking at you. “Who’s asking?” A vaguely familiar accent, but you can’t really pick up the origin.

>[CONT.]

>>42484226

“I literally texted you ten minutes ago, darlin’,” Leo says with a smile as he slides onto the stool on Jaroslava’s right. “Did you forget already?”

The scarred woman smiles at your second-in-command, “Ha, no, I didn’t. Slipped out, sorry. It’s nice to see you Leo. How ya been?”

“Good, good,” Leo answers as motions to a bartender. “But it’s my boss who wants to talk to you.”

Jaro turns to look at you, an appraising look in her eye. “Hunh.”

You raise an eyebrow at her, “Yes?”

“You’re Leo’s boss?”

“Yep,” You answer and hold out your hand. “Commander Sonali Vasusena.”

“Jaroslava Vlcek. Used to be a Master Sergeant,” She says, as she shakes your offered appendage. “Call me Jaro. Nice ta meetcha.”

Jaro places her arms on the bar and leans forward onto them, still giving you an appraising look. “So, how can I help the Alliance today?”

>Response?

>>42484252
You can join my crew, my favorite store on the citadel, and I can pay you.

>>42484252
"Not exactly the Alliance, now.

Not sure if they broadcasted it over the match earlier but I was just confirmed as a Spectre by the council.

How does working for a Spectre strike you?"

>>42484252
>>42484434
I like the "How does working for a Spectre strike you?" bit. Open with that.

Valor update twitter, didn't know you where running today

>>42485164

>I did Update Twitter.
>Sadly, I usually don't post when I run because I can never keep to a schedule and would end up frustrating everyone if I kept being late.

>>42485164
>>42485235
I got a Twitter notification on my phone about today, but upon checking the news feed I don't see anything from him.

Maybe it got deleted or something.

>>42485235
>>42485263
Yeah the last update I see from him is from the 7th

>>42485263
>>42485276

>Huh, well, I'll send an update out now.

“How does working for a Spectre strike you?” You ask, a sly smile playing across your face.

Jaro blinks and looks between you and Leo, who also has a grin. Confusion is plain to see on her features. “Did I… miss something?”

Your grin only grows wider. “Not sure if they broadcasted it over the match but I was just confirmed as a Spectre by the Council.”
“You’re shitting me,” the muscular woman says. “Is this for real?”

“Nothing fake about it,” Leo answers as the bartender finishes taking his order. “Look it up for yourself if you want.”

Jaro’s Omni-tool springs to life on her wrist, a web browser open on the screen. She searches your name and a slew of articles pop up immediately. You and Leo wait while she reads through some of the articles and watches the video of your press conference. You can see yourself reversed on the projected screen, standing in front of the Citadel Tower. Normally, you wouldn’t admit it, but you actually cut a striking figure. The bartender returns with three drinks and places one in front of each of you.

>[CONT.]

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>>42485466

Looks like Leo ordered you the usual:

>An Orbital Russian (also known as a Gagarin) [Gagarin Station Vodka, Coffee Liqueur and Synth-Cream. A new take on an old classic and popular among Levo species.]
>A Tingling Azure [Asari Mead mixed with several Thessian Fruits. Trace amounts of Eezo result in a tingling throughout the body. Particularly popular among Biotics.]
>A Full Biotic Kick [Bourbon, Tuchanka dry, twist of orange, and ginger beer. Hits like its namesake, but garners immediate respect.]
>A Batarian Shard Wine [Distilled on Khar’shan with a secret formula, this drink is “the Marmite of Alcohol.” You either love it or hate it.]
>Water [You don’t drink alcohol, not after watching your father kill himself with the damn stuff.]
>[Write-in]: http://masseffect.wikia.com/wiki/Drinks

“Wow.” Jaro says as she finishes her impromptu study session. “You’re the real deal. And you want me on your crew? Why? Don’t you have a bunch of N7’s to back you up?”

>Response?

>>42485504
>An Orbital Russian

>>42485504
>An Orbital Russian

>Response
Resources are tight, apparently, and they couldn't afford to give me a full Spec Ops team. So I'm putting together a team the old fashioned way.

>>42485504
>>A Full Biotic Kick [Bourbon, Tuchanka dry, twist of orange, and ginger beer. Hits like its namesake, but garners immediate respect.]

>>42485504
>Water [You don’t drink alcohol, not after watching your father kill himself with the damn stuff.]

>>42485504
>Water [You don’t drink alcohol, not after watching your father kill himself with the damn stuff.]
"Resources are tight, apparently, and they couldn't afford to give me a full Spec Ops team. So I'm putting together a team the old fashioned way."

>>42485504
Well, they don't want to provide us with a team, that means I can pick up something better on my own time.

>>42485504
Sigh audibly.

"A part of the problem of being one of the best tools the alliance has means that you get thrown at some of the meanest the alliance goes against. My team took casualties, one KIA, one badly injured and one suffering from PTSD and in no condition to fight. We're down to two effectives and now we're supposed to take on the galaxy's worst.

If i'm supposed to do this and bring my new team back, i need the meanest and the best the galaxy can offer. And that leads me to you."

>>42485504
>>An Orbital Russian

>>42485504
>A Full Biotic Kick [Bourbon, Tuchanka dry, twist of orange, and ginger beer. Hits like its namesake, but garners immediate respect.]

>>42485628
>>42485602

Wut?

>>42485504
>>42485667

this.

>>42485504

>Water [You don’t drink alcohol, not after watching your father kill himself with the damn stuff.]

Hoping for a Fate Point.

>Response

"Spec Ops teams are always active. Easier, faster and better if I recruit on my own. And Leo vouches for you, so you're probably what I need."

>>42485705
I'm >>42485602

I guess >>42485628 liked my response.

>>42485504
>>An Orbital Russian (also known as a Gagarin) [Gagarin Station Vodka, Coffee Liqueur and Synth-Cream. A new take on an old classic and popular among Levo species.]

>>42485504
>A Full Biotic Kick

>>42485768
I did, yes.

>>42485504
>A Full Biotic Kick

>>42485504
>Water [You don’t drink alcohol, not after watching your father kill himself with the damn stuff.]

And seconding >>42485667

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>>42485806
>>42485768
I am unconvinced.

>>42485504
>>A Full Biotic Kick

>>42485885
You may be as unconvinced as you like. Nothin' stopping you.

>Pointing out that Everything after >>42485768 Won't count as it's outside the Time Limit.

>>42486054

Sooo. Orbital Russian or Water?

>>42486111

Orbital Russian Water of course.

VODKA IN SPESSSSSS

>>42485504
>Water

>Tie for the Drinks.

>Final Destination Vote: Post one of the Following Numbers for the Option you want.

>Do not Link this post, do not add anything else to your post. 5 Minute Time Limit.

>1- Orbital Russian
>2- Water

>>42486111
>whynotboth.jpeg

>>42486141
1

2

1

2

1

>>42486141
1

1

2

2

>>42486155
I can think of several reasons.

>>42486141
2

>>42486155
You realize that they're mutually exclusive, right?

>>42486156
>>42486178
>Do not Link this post

1

2

1

1

2

>>42486141
2

>Calling the Vote Here.
>Tallying

I think we're tied again.

>>42486301
Yep. Even counting posts that broke the "do not link this post" rule, it's tied.

>>42486330

Vodka in Space then.

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>42486166
>>42486171
>>42486181
>>42486206
>>42486216
>>42486218
>1

>>42486164
>>42486167
>>42486186
>>42486189
>>42486207
>>42486225

>2

>Riiight, I'm just gonna Roll a d20. Odds is Orbital Russian, Evens is Water.

>>42486389

Geez, its a teetotaller.

One who can't drink with the troops.

>>42486389

>Water it is
>Writing

>>42486446
Makes perfect sense considering her background.

Besides, we're pretty much immune to alcohol thanks to Project Durga.

You sigh, a frown crossing your face as you recall your last mission. “A part of the problem of being one of the best tools the Alliance has means that you get thrown against some of the biggest threats in the Galaxy.”

You pause to take a sip of your water before continuing. “My team took casualties. One KIA, one badly injured and one suffering from PTSD and in no condition to fight. We're down to two effectives.”

“And we're supposed to take on the galaxy's worst.” Another pause, another sip. “Resources are tight. Spec Ops teams are always active.”

“Plus, the new batch of N’s won’t be ready for months,” Leo adds in from behind his glass of Quad Kicker.
You nod in agreement. “So, I'm putting together a team the old fashioned way. I need the meanest and the best the Galaxy can offer. And that leads me to you.”

You stop for a moment and stick the pinky of the hand that’s holding your glass at Leo. “Or rather, that led me to Leo, which leads me to you. And Leo vouches for you, so you're probably what I need.”

>[CONT.]

>>42487435

The LT puts his glass down and swallows, “With Aiden down, we need a new Heavy Weapons Specialist. Jaro is one of the best I’ve served with. She’ll tear through anything and everything.”

“Heh, thanks Spooks,” Jaro says with a grin as she looks over her shoulder at him. “Really warms the heart.”

She turns back to you, “To tell you the truth, this sounds perfect for me. Going Solo was better than the Blue Suns, but it’s a lean living. Although, I’ve got a question for you…”

You finish off your water, and look the larger woman in the eyes. “Shoot.”

“That whole spiel about ‘serving’ every single being in the Galaxy, did you really mean it?” Her eyes are piercing and she scratches absently at the tattoo on her neck. “Even after you lost your mom to the Turians?”

>Response?

>Roll 2d20
>Modifiers are +4 [Perception+Awareness] for both

Rolled 17, 14 = 31 (2d20)

>>42487457
"Yes."

Rolled 8 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>42487457

"Every word of it."

Rolled 14, 9 + 4 = 27 (2d20 + 4)

>>42487457
Rolling

Rolled 14, 11 + 4 = 29 (2d20 + 4)

>>42487457

"I did, yes."

>>42485235
if you sent @ someone, it doesn't show up for any one else if you start the tweet with the @

>>42487743

I sent another one before that.

>>42487759
no you didn't, you sent one after, but not before

>>42487823

>I sent one before, but it got deleted for some reason.

That tattoo… it’s so familiar. The characters are Asiatic, but you don’t really know where you would have seen them before. And then it hits you.

山西

Shanxi.

“Every word of it,” you say quietly.

Jaro smiles wryly, even as a slight anger creeps into her muscles. “Idealistic huh? Hold onto to that. We need Idealists.”

She picks up the drink Leo ordered for her and downs it in one go. “Got any questions for me while we’re getting introduced?”

You observe the scarred woman for a few seconds, noting her body language. The way she sits, the way she moves, the way her eyes circle the room. There’s anger there, although she does an excellent job of keeping it hidden, along with a certain tenseness and the faintest hint of loathing. You can’t tell exactly what it’s aimed at, not just from looking at her. But your gut tells you that Jaro is a kindred spirit, in more ways than one.

“Well?” the mercenary ask, a questioning look on her face.

>Questions?
>Response?
>Actions?

>>42488058
>>Questions?
"Care to elaborate on your skillset?"

And very importantly,

"Will you have problems if turians join the group?"

>>42488058
Seconding
>>42488234

"I'm not gonna bring them on intentionally to piss you off or anything. But if a Turian proves to be a great asset willing to join the team, will that be an issue?">>42488234

>>42488234
>>42488295
These are good.

>>42486509

Heh, just realized that Project Durga was incredibly fitting for Sonali.

>>42486509
Doesn't mean we still can't appreciate a good tasting drink and instead go full retard nofun mode.

>>42488058
>Once we're through with the Turian questions
"I'm curious about what exactly Manticore used to do. Mercenary work is a pretty wide field."

>>42488058
>>42488295
>>42488546
these are good

>>42488514
Yes, not drinking alcohol because our asshole father literally drank himself to death is 'full retard nofun mode'

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>>42488514
>and instead go full retard nofun mode.

>>42488823
Anon, the two are not inextricably linked together forever and we can never ever associate booze with anything else.

A drink is just a drink for shits sake.

>>42488823
We kind of moved past that in the whole 'dealing with asshole deadbeat father' thing, I very much doubt a drink among colleagues and friends would send us spiraling into that mess.

>>42488823
Yeah, it kinda is.

>>42488870
Exactly. It's just a drink. Stop getting upset about it. Not everyone likes alcohol. Someone who literally cannot get drunk has no reason to drink it. There are plenty of drinks that taste better without it.

Oh for gods sake lets not get into this shit. Dice gods spoke and gave a verdict.

How about instead of bitching over a character trait you anons come up with a good hobby.

>>42488926
>Someone who literally cannot get drunk has no reason to drink it.
>people only drink alcohol because it makes you drunk

>>42488926
>Someone who literally cannot get drunk has no reason to drink it.
Speak for yourself anon, because you don't speak for the rest of us.

I sure as shit don't drink alcohol to get drunk, I merely enjoy the taste of a good bourbon.

>>42488963
Writing!

Amateur stuff that she's embarrassed to show anyone.

>>42488974
You can be sociable without drinking alcohol. Designated drivers and minors do it all the time.
You can drink things that taste good without drinking alcohol. I feel sad for you if you've never had anything that tastes good and isn't alcohol.

>>42488996

She minored in Creative Writing in college?

>>42488996
doesn't seem like her

IIRC in the previous thread we talked about her helping train new N7's when back home

>Guys, can I head this off right now please? I don't want to derail the thread on this argument.

>>42489007
Good job completely missing the point.

>>42489021
It might explain why her neighbors think she's a journalist, though.

>>42489016

Hasn't been.

>>42489021
True, but that's not something she can do in her free time easily.

Maybe reading? Sappy romance novels that she hides behind some serious encryption on her omni-tool.

>>42489052
that would be funny, maybe she has a large literature collection on display?

also on the booze issue, considering it was exactly a 50/50 split I doubt she feels massively strong one way or the other, and more she doesn't mind either option, its not a big deal for her

>>42489052
>>42489070

Maybe she has a secret side job as a literary critic?

>>42489070
>True, but that's not something she can do in her free time easily.
there was also talk of her just going to gyms and working out, not for any benefit, but because its relaxing, and also occasionally showing up people

>>42489101
How would that even work? I mean, I guess she could do a lot of anonymous book reviews...

I wonder what her Psych Profile would say...

>>42489165
On the Extranet, everyone is a critic.

It's just that people actually listen to her rebiews on her blog or wherever she posts them.

So all I got so far is She does exercise and writing as downtime.

The only reason I want the writing is because the potential shenanigans of trying to cover it up from the team.

>>42489165
>>42489220

She's got a pseudonym and submits to a popular site?

>>42489263

They all read it aloud while playing keep-away.

>>42489263

slash on Fanfiction.extranet

>>42489165
take a couple pen names, easy

>>42489292
nah, no shit fanfic wankery stuff, just decent literature

>>42489319
>>42489263
She's a minor romance author with a bit of a cult following?

>>42489351

I'm not seeing that. Reviewing and a few submissions sounds better.

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>>42489263

>>42489351
>>42489390

Maybe she's more of a reviewer but is trying to get some romance stories written?

>>42489435
nah no romance stories, I can see her having a collection of them to read, but if anything she should be a combat author, writing action novels

>>42489480
I can get behind that, maybe she sees all those armchair authors and wannabe's writing crap and thinks "I'll show these nobodies how to really write action!"

>>42489435

I like the romance bit. It's not something you'd expect out of our Sonali.

>>42489480
>>42489527
>>42489532

How about children's books? Or young adult novels.

I do like the idea of her writing realistic action and war novels, though.

>>42489541
>I do like the idea of her writing realistic action and war novels, though.

With romance sections spliced in? What better motivation for procreation besides 'we might die tomorrow so lets fuck tonight'

I like the writing thing but her having been published is kinda stretching SOD. Maybe a few short stories have been published in a few literary mags, but that's it so far.

>Sonali is secretly her generation's Tolkien, and no one really gives a damn about her work, but in a few generations they will be a massive fucking hit

>She also has an absolutely cringeworthy pen name

>>42489587

She's currently working on her novel but has been neglecting it due to writer's block.

>>42489587
self publishing. By which I mean just putting shit out on the extranet.

>>42489586

Sure. A bit flat at times, but overall is a nice addition to the books.

>>42489587
>>42489606

Agreed on both.

>>42489592
>She also has an absolutely cringeworthy pen name

More dorky than cringeworthy, maybe.

>>42489638
I dunno

Sixty-Nali is pretty fucking bad.

>>42489688

Doesn't sound that bad.

You decide that it’s best to just address the elephant in the room, “Will you have problems if Turians join the Team?"

Jaro blinks in surprise before smiling ruefully, “That obvious huh?”

“Nah,” Leo says from Jaro’s other side. “Sona is just that good at reading people.”

“Heh,” the Merc says. “Good to know.”

“Jaro,” You get her attention. “I'm not gonna bring them on intentionally to piss you off or anything. But if a Turian proves to be a great asset willing to join the team, will that be an issue?"

She takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly before answering, “No, it really won’t. Not gonna lie, I really don’t like Turians. But I don’t hate ALL of them. I can deal with it if you want to bring one on board.” She’s genuine.

“That’s good to hear,” You say, a mild sense of relief forming in the back of your mind. “Let’s talk about something lighter then.”

“Like?”

“Howabout gear?” Leo suggests.

“And skillsets,” You toss in. “What are you really good at?”

Jaro grins a fierce grin, “Well, I love Big Guns and Big Booms. Got good at using the first and causing the second. Can do some ship weapons too but that’s pretty boring.”

>[CONT.]

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>>42490215

Leo grins suddenly, “Hey Jaro, you remember what you said on Thedas Prime after that tank shell hit you?”

The scarred woman laughs, “Yeah, I do! Heavy Armor and Fortification are a Girl’s Best Friends.”

You join her in her laughter, appreciating how easy it is. Jaro is a likable person, despite her rough exterior and initial gruffness.

“As for gear, well, I’ve got a pretty tricked out Revenant and an AMX-100,” She continues. “And a Colossus for Armor.”

You whistle, “That’s pretty good. Heard the Colossus was discontinued a few years ago.”

“Yep, but I snagged one a month before they stopped production. Expensive, but Manticore footed part of the bill and it was SO worth it.”

“That reminds me,” You begin. “I'm curious about what exactly Manticore used to do. Mercenary work is a pretty wide field."

“Oh yeah, we did a ton of stuff,” Jaro answers as she begins counting on her fingers. “Security, planetary assault, guerrilla warfare, sabotage, etcetera, etcetera. Thing is, we always did our best to not be assholes. Did Leo tell you how we originally met?”

>[CONT.]

>>42490233

Leo answers for you, “No, I didn’t. But it’s a short story. Back when I was with the 7th Frontier Division, my Platoon was assigned to help protect a little podunk colony out in the middle of nowhere. One day, we got word that slavers were inbound. We were pretty screwed, to be honest.So, the Colony Leader called in a favor with Manticore to get some protection. We weren’t expecting the entire Company to show up, with a Cruiser to boot.”

Jaro grins, “Yeah, the Old Man always repaid favors. I met Leo down on the battlefield. A couple years later, when he needed some fire support on some Spec Ops stuff, I was happy to help.”

Suddenly, Jaro pauses and looks thoughtful, “Say, you said you were down three squadmates, right? I might know a few people who’re interested. Damn fine soldiers too. One of them is on station right now and I could probably get her down here right now if you want.”

>Response?
>Action?

>>42490250
>Response?

"Sure, why not? What does she drink?"

>Action?

Order the drink.

>>42490250
"Why not. Couldnt hurt."

>>42490250
Who are they? What race. What do they do/equipped with.

>>42490311
This. We need people, this person seems solid, so her recommendations should be worth something.

>>42490233

>That Symbol
>Colossus Colors

Say, what was Manticore's Leader's name?

>>42490518

>Declan Kane. Why do you ask?

>>42490587

sweating intensifies

>>42490250
"Sure, I'm willing to take any help can get. If your area of expertise is Heavy Weapons, what does your friend specialize in?"

>>42490518
>>42490587
>>42490594

What?

>>42490594
Kane lives, brother.

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>>42490613

Know your Lord and Savior

>>42490662

I didn't realize it was a Command & Conquer reference 'cause I thought "Declan Kane" as a whole was important, not just the Kane part.

>>42490662
Wonder if they build obelisks as monuments everywhere they go.

Maybe a temple or two.

Maybe a giant fucking robot

>>42490730
Well, leaving behind the occasional monument as recognition of their services wouldn't be too bad, but leaving behind a giant robot would get expensive fast.

>>42485235
Oh, didn't know there was a twitter. Could you post the handle again? I love this story so far and find myself checking for it everyday. Some great story telling Valor

>>42491430

>Thank you!
>The handle is @SleeplessQM

“Who exactly is this person?” You ask. “And what’s she do?”

“Her name’s Catherine. Catherine Valdez, or Cath for short,” Jaro answers. “And she’s the best damn Tech Specialist outside of the Migrant Fleet. Ex-Alliance, I think and I know she worked at that School for Biotic Kids. Rising? Ascending?”

“Ascension?” Leo puts forward.

Jaro snaps her fingers and points at him. “That’s the one. Cath was a Teacher there back when they were first starting up and before she joined Manticore. She’s a pretty good Biotic too.”

You exchange a glance with Leo, who shrugs, “Sure, why not? I'm willing to take any help I can get.”

“Right,” Jaro says as she stands up. “I’ll call her then.”

“What does she drink?" You ask as she walks away.

Jaro stops to think for a second,”... I don’t actually know. I’ll ask her.”

While she makes her call, you call the bartender over to refill your water. Taking a sip, you consider the team composition so far. While five is a good number for a team, there’s no reason why you can’t recruit a few more people. Right now, what you’re lacking is Biotic power. You’re the only Biotic on the squad and, if you’re honest with yourself, you’re incredibly weak. Shoring up that area of your team would be a good idea and it looks like this Cath can really help out.

>[CONT.]

>>42491599

Your musings are interrupted by a raised voice coming from behind you. Turning around to investigate, you find Jaro speaking angrily into the Omni-Tool pressed to the side of her head.

“... lazy ass out of bed NOW! I’ve got a job offer and there’s room for you too.” A pause. “No, it’s not at that strip club.” Another pause. “I’m at Tarfing’s.” Pause. “No, we’re not being offered stripper positions, quit bringing that up.” Pause. “Finally! Yeah, yeah, see you soon.”

She turns back to you as her tool deactivates, a slightly disgruntled expression on her face. “She likes wine.”
_

After relocating to one of the booths, you spend the next half hour or so just chatting with Jaro and Leo. You swap stories about missions, hobbies, and general other facets of life. Jaro is surprisingly adept at FutureCraft, actually being ranked rather highly in the Citadel League. Leo shares an amusing story about how he ended up locked in a closet with four Asari strippers. The discussion eventually turns to weapons and tech, and soon a debate begins to rage about Heat Sinks.

>[CONT.]

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>>42491626

“When you need to keep up a high rate of fire, ejecting heatsinks is just smarter!” Jaro argues. “Waiting for the sink to cool off is a terrible idea.”

“I don’t dispute that,” Leo responds. “But for non-rapid fire weapons, venting sinks is a much better idea. It cuts down strain on supply lines, allows for longer operating times in the field and is great on the Frontier when you have a hard time getting resupplied.”

“Alternatively,” a new voice adds. “You could just use a hybrid weapon and get the best of both worlds.”

The woman that sits down next to Jaro is slim, yet fit. Her skin is a light mocha tone, offset by the blue jumpsuit she’s wearing. Her black hair falls to her shoulders in waves and her Dark Brown eyes match her features in an aesthetically pleasing manner. She yawns and leans on Jaro, who pokes her sharply.

“Hi, I’m Cath,” the new arrival says, her voice carrying a slight American accent. “Jaro told me you guys had a job offer for us?”

>Response?

>>42491646
>Response?

"Take a seat. Want anything to drink?"

Then tell her what the job offer is.

>>42491646
"I do. Commander sonali, Spectre, and i'm looking for a few good men and women to join my team."

Jaro pushes a glass of Armali Icewine towards Cath. “Here’s your drink,”

“Thank you Jaro,” She says sleepily as she takes a sip.

You take a swig of your water before beginning your pitch. “I’m Commander Sonali Vasusena, Spectre, and I’m looking for a few good men and women to join my team.”

Cath pauses as her once slightly sleepy eyes suddenly sharpen and focus on you, “Alright, you have my attention.” Her voice has lost all traces of exhaustion it held before.

You give her a few minutes to get herself up to speed on the Extranet before giving her a rundown on why you’re recruiting. She listens attentively, placing her wine to the side and giving you her undivided attention. When you finish, she frowns while staring at you contemplatively.

A moment later, she speaks. “I'm guessing that you can't give me any specifics, but are we going after a specific problem like Shepard did or what?”

“There’s no particular Mission,” You answer truthfully. “This is really more to get someone in the door.”

Cath shrugs, “Alrighty then, I’m sold. Anything you wanna ask before we discuss terms?”

Well, that was quick.

>Questions?

>>42492158
Ask about her skill, how she knows Jaro ect.

At the end ask why she kept asking Jaro if this was a stripping job

>>42492158
"Jaro mentioned you're a biotic. Care to expand on that? Any other skills in or out of combat?"

>>42492158
"Yes, tell me a bit about your specialty, experience and skills. So far, all I know of you is that Jaro is willing to speak for you. Tell me a bit about yourself."

>>42492158
Seconding
>>42492197

And jokingly, make sure it's clear that we're joking, mention that it can still be that type of job if she wants.

>>42492223
I support this

>>42492158

Still there?

"Yes,” You begin. “Tell me a bit about your skills and experience. All I know right now is that Jaro is willing to vouch for you. Tell me a bit about yourself.”

“Well,” Cath starts, a thoughtful look upon her face. “I enlisted in the Marines back in ‘71 and left after one tour. Military life really didn’t sit well with me. Did a bunch of Odd jobs before I got tapped for the Ascension Project. I’m an L2 Biotic so they wanted my experience in setting up. After that, Manticore gave me a recruitment offer and I took ‘em up on it. Steady pay and relaxed regs were big bonuses for me.”

“As for my skillset… well, I’m pretty much a jack of all trades. I’ve been certified to be a Pilot, Quartermaster, Arbitrator, Trader, Engineer, Medic, Teacher, etc. I don’t actually have a Degree in anything, mind you, I’m just pretty good at those things. Except piloting. I’m a damn good pilot.” She pauses, thinking again. “I guess I’m also a great shot? I don’t really use anything heavier than a Pistol and I usually use an Omni-shield in my off hand.”

>[CONT.]

>>42493331

“Wow,” Leo says and you’re inclined to agree. “That’s actually really impressive.”

“Thank you!” Cath says with a smile. “Anything else?”

“Yes, Jaro mentioned you're a Biotic and you said you’re an L2,” You continue. “Care to expand on that?”

The Biotic shrugs, “Not much to say. I got some decent training in the Marines but Manticore was where I got really good. There was this one Asari who really helped me get the most out of my abilities. I tend to stick to support and shielding.”

You nod as you process that info. She’ll definitely be incredibly helpful in and out of the field.

“Is that everything?” Cath asks.

You think for a moment before asking something that was puzzling you. “One last thing, why’d you keep asking Jaro if this was a stripping job?”

Jaro sighs and rolls her eyes but her companion just smiles. “Jaro got an offer a while ago from some Nightclub Inner-Ward that was looking to draw in new clientele. She turned them them down. Violently.”

You give the mercs a wide grin. “Well, if you two want it to be that kind of position, we can oblige.”

>[CONT.]

>>42493350

Cath laughs, a rather melodious sound, while Jaro just huffs.

“No, Thanks for offering though,” Cath replies. “Would you like to discuss terms of the contract then?”

“Sure,” You answer.

Cath pulls up a document on her omni-tool and shows it to you, “These are the standard terms for independent contractors. They stipulate that you’ll be responsible for ammunition, supplies and medical care for the duration of the contract. In addition, a payment of 2500 Credits is due biweekly. While bound by this contract, the contractor is required to follow all reasonable orders issued by their employer or employers. Reasonable is defined in Appendix A, but in general, it amounts to stuff like ordering them to go hand-to-hand with a Krogan or fight a Thresher Maw on foot. Stuff that’s blatantly suicidal. Do you agree to these terms?”

>Agree?
>Negotiate?

>>42493370
Looks good to me.

>>42493370
>Negotiate

Haggle the Salary down. Argue that we're providing Housing, Food, and a Massive Reputation Boost.

>>42493370
>Agree?

>>42493370
"What if the suicidal becomes necessary? Specter work isn't exactly going to be 'normal' even for experienced mercs."

>>42493370

Changing my vote from >>42493448

to >>42493447

>>42493370
>go hand-to-hand with a Krogan or fight a Thresher Maw on foot.

I'm a specter

>>42493370
"Blatantly suicidal huh? You do remember the part where I said I was a Specter right? Not mention my N7 designation. Not saying I'll put you in unnecessary danger, but our missions will be hard, they will be brutal and they will be important. If you think this is going to be a walk in a park, then you're very mistaken."

>>42493370
>generall agree

"Just so you know, this is gonna be stuff on a galactic scale now. Not that i'd willingly want to fight a tresher maw on foot but when the chips are down... Well i hope you'll overlook some of that."

>>42493447
definitely this

>I need 3 Rols of 1d20+8 [Charisma + Diplomacy] please.

Rolled 1 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

>>42493614

Rolled 5 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

>>42493614

Rolled 7 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

>>42493614

Rolled 12 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

>>42493614
Rolling

Rolled 12 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

>>42493614

You chuckle at the terms on the document before looking up at the two mercs. “Blatantly suicidal huh? You do remember the part where I said I was a Spectre right? What if the suicidal becomes necessary? Not saying we’re going to fight a Thresher Maw on foot but when the chips are down…” You trail off, seeing the surprise and worry in their body language.

You try a different tactic, “Look, there’s going to be stuff on a galactic scale. Our missions will be hard. They will be brutal. But they will be important.”

Jaro and Cath exchange looks, and the larger woman shrugs. The Polymath turns back to you with a frown. “Look, we’re not too keen on suicide missions but we’ll consider adjusting the definition of ‘reasonable’ at a later date.”

You sigh realizing you could have phrased that argument better, “Fine, but can we cut payments down then? After all, I’ll be providing housing, necessities, Spectre Authority to back up your actions and a massive reputation boost from working for a Spectre. That should easily handle your cost of living expenses.”

Cath frowns, but adjusts the document slightly. “Fifteen hundred, biweekly then. That’s as low as I’m willing to go.”

It’s clear she’s not willing to negotiate any further. Leo shrugs when you glance at him, his body language telling you that he thinks it’s fair.

>Accept?
>Reject

>>42493884
I'd accept

>>42493884
>accept

"welcome aboard you two. Look forward to see your skills in action."

Should we direct them to the ship or just ask them to hang tight?

>>42493884
>Accept

>>42493884
>>Accept
Do eet

we can do their loyalty missions later

>>42493955
>Should we direct them to the ship
We don't have a ship anon, thats what we need to get next

Admiral Hackett is organising to get us something, but it might take some time, so I reckon we should go check out the Spectre offices and see what resources we've got available to us

>>42494005

I mean we should have some pull to get them temporary beRths on the hastings at least.

Another sigh and you sign two copies of the document, one for Jaro and one for Cath. The two mercs add their signatures as well and, after providing your contact info, the contracts are delivered to your Inbox. As you stand up, You note that Cath’s eyes are drooping again.

"Welcome aboard you two.” You say as you shake their hands. “Looking forward to see your skills in action."

“Pleasure doing business,” Cath says with a sleepy smile. “Where should we bring our stuff?”

Oh, that’s right. You don’t actually have a ship yet.

“I’ll get back to you on that,” You say with a slightly guilty smile.

>[End Thread!]
>I’m wiped, and I have class in Eight hours
>I can answer some questions while I get ready for bed.
>Also, For Staying in Character You guys can either get:
>-1 Fate Point bringing your Total Up to Three
>-or
>- Any One Question about the game that I’ll Answer to the Best of my Ability.

>>42494005
>>42494017

>Hackett actually has something pulled together for your ship that he sent to Udina. You guys just decided to go recruit squadmates first then choose your ship.

>>42494042
>>-1 Fate Point bringing your Total Up to Three
this please, though I'm curious what the staying in character bit was, just played like I thought Sonali would

>>Hackett actually has something pulled together for your ship that he sent to Udina. You guys just decided to go recruit squadmates first then choose your ship.
sweet, then we need to go sort that out next

thanks for the thread OP, any idea when the next will be?

>>42494042
>>-1 Fate Point bringing your Total Up to Three

>>42494042
Fate points.

We still have that question left over from last thread.

>Fate Points: 3

>>42494066
Probably next weekend. Not going to promise anything as I have a bad habit of breaking promises.

>>42494084

Ended up answering a question actually.

>>42494124
Mind specifying what the in character bit was?

>>42494124
Don't keep us waiting too long. I'm loving the story so far

>>42494137

Personally, I felt that choosing Water was the most IC bit, as Sona still has some issues about her childhood. Note, this doesn't mean that the other choices were Wrong.