>>4924330
>Start the race

oh shit i remember this

Links to previous threads

#1 http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/4324657/

#2 http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/4381733/


I would also like to apologize for abandoning this quest without warning. I have my excuses and if you want them I'll give them. It doesn't excuse leaving anyone in limbo, if anyone who used to follow my quest even comes here anymore. I'm looking forward to relearning how to QM and to interacting with all of you again!

>>4924330
>>4924337

Starting with learning to reformat when I move my writings to posting jeeze lol

>>4924330
>>Start the race
This is back, nice.

>>4924335
>I have my excuses and if you want them I'll give them
If you have them prepared then it can't hurt to know

>>4924347

Fair enough.

First of all I started this quest when I had a great deal of time. Then things changed with a new job giving me quite a bit less time. Then, I had a family member catch covid and put her in the hospital for a month where I had to move across country to manage her estate. I had to find a new job during this because of course I had moved cross country. This all mixed together with my already poor mental health and just drained me of any will to do anything. It was honestly a really stressful time that led to a nasty depression spiral.

I'll be honest anons, I can't promise anything other than to try my best. I'm fairly stable, things are mostly normal, I'm in therapy. Things are looking up and I wanted to try my hand at restarting this quest because I truly did enjoy it.

These are good reasons to have put the quest on hiatus, but I don't have a good reason for just leaving you all on the hook without warning. So I apologize for that.

>>4924370
The QM curse is brutal. Happy that you're doing better now.

>>4924335
>>4924347

Like you just thought, there’s only one thing left to do.

A loud shrill whistle echoes through the pit. Causing a frantic amount of movement as everyone hustles to finish what they’re doing. Yelling intensifies, tools fly through the air, monsters being put back together. You finished a while ago, just sitting back and watching others like Mistletoe and Aki put the polish on their rides.

Another whistle, the energy becomes frenzied. There are 14 other racers here for a total of 15. You’ll have to pull out all the stops to not only win but just survive. Hells Run is an anything goes kind of race. The track has been walled off and reinforced to stop stray bullets from eviscerating a crowd. You tug your bulletproof catsuit a little tighter, though it’s already pretty damn snug.

One last whistle signals the end. Tools are put down and you notice at least 2 people look extremely frustrated at their bikes which are missing obvious parts. Well, at least that’s two people out of the way. Others stand up with a mixed range of emotions. Extreme confidence, nervousness, and even a bloodthirsty smile. You saw them carrying boxes of ammunition over to their pit. You’re not looking forward to being anywhere near that woman.

Everyone who can mount up. The garage fills with the sounds of angry beasts ready to be unleashed. Only getting a little more bearable when you finally hit open air. Of course it’s replaced by an even louder roar that comes from the surrounding crowd. You take your place in the 5th starting position. Looks like winning Snakes Way got you a little favor. Though Mistletoe came in second and is starting in 2nd. You wonder just how he got there.

>>4924401

You know that the world is filled with tremendous noise right now, but it’s all quieting down. You and 12 others rev your engines as things get underway. Lights are lowered and you’re all just waiting for the green. The hover bikes sound quite odd, not something you’ve grown used to seeing as how you prefer good old combustion engines. A low deep whine of an electric engine mixes in with the loud barrage of combustion explosions. You have some experience with them from the last race. They’re quick but they aren’t very good at maneuvering around yet. Might have to do with the whole hovering part.

When the first red light pops up, the crowd explodes. They’re seconds away from watching the second largest race of the year. You’re seconds away from participating in it. You notice out of the corner of your eyes a few people looking sideways at you. You pay them no mind, you’re focused solely on the race. The SPEED that’s soon to come.

It takes ages for the 2nd red light to light up. But it does. Then the third. Just one more. Engines roar, people chant out their favorite drivers' callsigns. It should have your heart hammering away like the pistons in your bike. But you’re nothing but the picture of calm.

Then. The Green.


>Be Aggressive
>Be Reactionary

Give me some d20s please! High rolls are good, low bad. Crits on 1s and 20s that can cancel each other out.

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>4924403
>>Be Aggressive

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>4924403
>Be Aggressive

WE ARE SPEEEEEED!

>>4924393
Thanks! It sucked but I'm doing a lot better.

File: UDHfoZy.png (218 KB, 620x464)

218 KB PNG

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4924403
>>Be Aggressive

>>4924406
>>4924408
>>4924411

A 16! A nice start!

Writing now. Forgot to say best of 3 for rolling rules.

>>4924406
>>4924408
>>4924411


There’s only one way to come in first and that’s wearing a wolf's smile. Baring your teeth against the world you explode off the starting line. Making your way up to 2nd as Mistletoe does the same and puts a solid length on you for 1st. Bastards fast, you’ll give him that. Everyone is fairly close behind you but you and Mistletoe are putting distance on them. Of course, they had ways to correct this. The world to your right explodes as some kind of missile just misses you. The world to your left is a mess of sparks as the road is hammered by wild rounds from the blood thirsty woman.

This is Hells Run. You came only armed with your bikes SPEED and two units of nitro to be used in those most dire of moments. You and Mistletoe continue to dodge munitions as you come into the first few turns of the race.


>Slow to maximize MANEUVERS
>Go in at the SPEED you're at.

>Get physical with Mistletoe in the corners
>Just try to pass him

Some more d20s my friends! Best of 3

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4924432
>Go in at the SPEED you're at.
>Just try to pass him

>>4924432
>Go in at the SPEED you're at.
>Just try to pass him

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4924455
forgot dice

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4924432
>Go in at the SPEED you're at.
>Just try to pass him

>>4924442
>>4924470
>>4924474

A14, not too bad but not stunning.

Gonna make a sandwich real quick and eat then I'll get on that update!

>>4924442
>>4924470
>>4924474
>>4924455

You decide to dart through the corners using your extreme SPEED. Mistletoe slows down just a little to get more traction and it works well for him. Despite your SPEED, Mistletoe manages to maintain his position just ahead of you for most of the turns before the straight away. But on the final turn your SPEED pulls you through. Mistletoe isn’t quite quick enough to block you from moving past him. You pull ahead and fight back the instinct to take a cheap shot at him.

You’re now just a little ahead of Mistletoe. Sitting in 1st place makes you feel good but you still have quite a ways to go before the race is over. Plus, as you head out onto the straight away the rest of the pack comes out of the turns and you’re doding munitions again. Only this time they’re aim is getting better. Either you need to outrace a bullet, which even for you would be quite a challenge. Or something needs to be done about this bullet spewing woman.

You’ve watched plenty of Hells Run in the past. Positions change constantly and people have been known to win the race from last place before. Usually with ferocious violence, but still the sentiments are the same.

>Out SPEED the bullets
>Give up 1st to deal with the woman
>Try to signal Mistletoe to see if he’ll help with the woman


As always, some d20s!

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4924531
>>Try to signal Mistletoe to see if he’ll help with the woman

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4924531
>Try to signal Mistletoe to see if he’ll help with the woman

>>4924545
>>4924546

Something has to be done about this woman. Most of the other racers are showing fair restraint with their weapons but she’s just unloading on you and anyone who tries to get ahead of her. You see Aki riding fairly close but lagging behind so that she doesn’t get filled with lead.

Shifting your gaze to Mistletoe you make a few quick movements with one hand pointing at the bloodthirsty woman. It takes a few seconds and you can’t really make out his face through his helmet but he does nod in the end.

You level out with him and while still dodging manage to position yourself almost directly in front of her. Normally not where you’d want to be and her raising the intensity of her attacks makes that clear. But you and Mistletoe have somewhat of a plan.


>Slam on the brakes with Mistletoe in front of her and hope she crashes
>Slowdown and pull up on each side of her to attack
>Write in

Some d20s no matter what you pick my friends.

Also going to take a break for the day. While I really want to run constantly I’ve learned my lesson about over committing and I’m feeling fairly tired. I might update here and there for the rest of the day but I’ll be back tomorrow to make a solid run of things.

>>4924574
>Slam on the brakes with Mistletoe in front of her and hope she crashes

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4924574
>>Slam on the brakes with Mistletoe in front of her and hope she crashes

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4924615

File: Cyberjazz.png (114 KB, 768x768)

114 KB PNG

>>4924330
>Jump on /qst/ to see what's new
>New Lights Flights
>No fucking way
>It totally is
Let's fucking go, QM. I was entirely convinced this was abandoned.

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4924574
Remind me again what our bike's stats were, QM.

Pretty sure we went with the heavy bike, had a free +1 or 2 speed from the guy that got merced by the trauma team, and then another couple speed and maneuvers and a nitro on top of that.

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>4924574
>> >Slam on the brakes with Mistletoe in front of her and hope she crashes

>>4924574
>>Slam on the brakes with Mistletoe in front of her and hope she crashes

I remember this, hope it isn’t a fever dream.

What was the difference between hover and combustion bikes again?

File: Burning Chrome.jpg (1.95 MB, 4160x2464)

1.95 MB JPG

>>4924842
>>4924888
It was at one point anon, it was at one point :( I still have your fanart saved though! It did help me reconsider picking this back up.

So from my little book that I had to tear my room apart to find. We are using the Heavy Bike which is Armored with 6 SPEED and 4 MANEUVERS.

Also! You actually do have a small caliber pistol on you! So ignore that part about you only being armed with SPEED.

>>4925326
I hope it isn't either! So the difference mechanically is they start with higher SPEED and lower MANEUVERS. Not unlike our stats right now actually which makes me laugh. The difference in game is that Hover bikes are basically brand new untested tech. Trying to cement it's place in history by beating tried and true old tech in races like these. You'd make a lot of money by winning these races on a hover bike.


I have a few things to do this morning, but I should be able to update a few times later today! Looking forward to seeing you all there!

File: Mistletoe pain.jpg (122 KB, 1280x720)

122 KB JPG

>>4924616
>>4924617
>>4924888
>>4925300
>>4925326

The plan, of course, being to slam on the brakes and hope she freaks and crashes. Not much of a plan but a plan nonetheless. You huddle closer to your bike hoping to present a smaller target. Looking over at Mistletoe, you nod your head and hold up 3 fingers. Counting down you slam the brakes and pray.

You feel some odd thumps on your back. Your bulletproof catsuit lives up to its name and your skeletal enhancements keep you strong enough to shrug them off. There’ll be some hardcore bruises but no actual bullet holes in you today, for now.

The crowd of racers around her parts, but she stays strong. Fully opening up on you and Mistletoe with her guns. Bitch thinks she can win a game of chicken. She’s wrong. Mistletoe peels off at the last second as his bike takes the brunt of the bullets. But you stay strong and she rams into you. You manage to maintain control and you see her still up but she’s wobbling. Wobbling hard. You’ve seen it before and others even call it the death wobble. It’d be a miracle for her to stay upright and at the speed you’re all going. Even more of one to stay alive from that kind of slide.

You turn your head to check on Mistletoe and it doesn’t look good. He looks fine but his bike is smoking. Doing a quick check over of your own stuff you notice a few new holes but nothing looks damaged. The armor coming in to save the day there. As the crowd passes you since you lost quite a bit of distance and speed taking the bitch out, you pull up alongside Mistletoe and with a few hand signals ask if he’s okay. It takes a second but he finally shakes his head. He points down at some delicate parts that just aren’t moving the way they should. Shrugging, he points at you and holds up 1 finger. The point is clear, he’s out but he demands you come in 1st. His sacrifice better be worth it. Nodding, you slam back on the SPEED.

Passing a wreck you see a long red smear across the race track ending in a crumpled up body. Looks like she couldn’t pull out of the death wobble after all. Good.

You are now at the back of the pack. Last place, you’ve proven you’re faster than everyone but Mistletoe here and no one is as armed as the bitch you just took out. So things are looking good. Looking over the pack you see Aki make headway now that she doesn’t have to worry about taking a bullet in the back. She’s fast. A wildcard you’ll have to deal with too. Now the question is, deal with her now or later. Also, how to make your way through a pack of racers hellbent on keeping you behind them.

>With SPEED of course
>MANEUVERING is actually more important here

>Try to deal with Aki
>Ignore her

>>4925570
Forgot to say. More d20s! A never ending parade of d20s! Or at least 3 lol

File: Hit it.gif (7.09 MB, 640x360)

7.09 MB GIF

Rolled 18 (1d20)

Between our Heavy Bike and Armor upgrade, are we one of the heavier bikes in this race, QM? If that's the case-

>>4925570
>With SPEED of course
>Pop a NITRO and bulldoze our way through the pack, especially the hover bikes.
No need for fancy maneuvers when we make them move for us. They've seen us play chicken with a armed maniac, so they know we aren't afraid of ramming our opponents out of the way if need be. Don't think they'll try to block a bullheaded cannon ball flying at our speeds fueled by nitro.

>Ignore her
SPEED

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4925570
>>MANEUVERING is actually more important here
>Ignore her

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4925570
>MANEUVERING is actually more important here
>Ignore her

Hope I don't fuck up the Nat 20...

>>4925602
>>4925614
>>4925618

Damn! Some slick moves coming out here! I'll get to writing in an hour or so. Just starting to cook a meal.

Also you are tied with being the heaviest bike out on the race track today.

>>4925623
Damn, New Lights Flights is back. I thought this was dead.

>>4925602
>>4925614
>>4925618


You know SPEED. You know it well. But this is a time for MANEUVERS. You recognize you could maybe plow your way through but that could damage your bike like Mistletoes. You don’t want to end your race because some punk got in a lucky shot as you blazed through. So you sit back for a few seconds, try to realize a path through that gives you maximum safety but doesn’t leave you halfway through the pack. Then, you see it. A rider moves a foot one way and opens up a path that’ll take you right to the top. You slam on the accelerator and make your move.

The 1st rider you pass doesn’t even know you’re there until you leave him in the dust. The 2nd makes a pathetic effort to stop you, you leave him in the dust as well. The 3rd and 4th are neck and neck, too busy with each other as you swerve around and make your get away. More and more riders see you coming but nothing anyone does can even touch you. It’s a mastery of your craft, it doesn’t come often but sometimes the gods reach down and bless you. A few pot shots from some small caliber pistols, a swing from a melee weapon. All miss, not even close.

Soon you’re in the top 3 again. With Aki leading the pack you see her look behind and spot you making your move. She thumbs a switch and suddenly the road is filled with slick oil. Luck is still with you as you make your way on the outside and avoid it altogether as she swerves around to lay the oil down as wide as possible. 2nd place gets stuck in the oil and slips off her ride. She’ll be another red smear.

Now it’s just you and Aki. Neck and neck coming into the 2nd and final set of corners in Hells Run. She is staring at you. She knows you out SPEED her. She’ll make her move in the corners. You can feel it.

>Act defensively
>Act aggressively

Roll some d20s my friends

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4925666
>>Act aggressively

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4925666
>Act aggressively

File: Master-Oogway.jpg (64 KB, 1000x700)

64 KB JPG

>>4925673

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4925666
>>Act aggressively
HERE GOES SOMETHIIIIIIIIIN!

>>4925673
>>4925679
>>4925686


You need to be aggressive. That’s the only way to make sure she doesn’t strike you. Strike first. You both come into the corner neck and neck. Swinging wide you set up to come in and smash her side. She sees you coming and brakes just enough for you to swing right in front of her directly into the side wall. You yelp as part of your leg brushes the wall for half a second. Your catsuit is pretty tough, but even then you felt that. You try to gain control back but you’re stuck against the wall, sparks filling your vision as you try to move away from it. You feel your heart hammer away as it becomes apparent you’re locked in against the wall.

Aki sees this but instead of leaving you there, she gets right up along your side. Pulling out a machine pistol, there’s nothing you can do as she unloads a stream of bullets right into you. It hurts, dear god it hurts. Every single one from point blank range is a hammer slamming down into you. You’re lucky though, nothing penetrates and once she runs out she hits her nitro boost and screams right out into the straight away.

You’re quite fucked right now. Stuck against the wall, you’re pretty sure Aki broke a rib despite your augmentation. Aki is making her get away, the pack of racers behind you is getting closer. You’re in danger of becoming a nobody.

>It’s dangerous but you can push yourself away from the wall with your leg.
>It’s dangerous but you can try to oversteer yourself away from the wall
>It’s dangerous but you can Nitro Boost and hope the SPEED gets you away from the wall

>>4925719
>It’s dangerous but you can Nitro Boost and hope the SPEED gets you away from the wall

RIDE OR DIE, BABY

>>4925719
>It’s dangerous but you can Nitro Boost and hope the SPEED gets you away from the wall

We have to catch back up. Lets do this.

Gonna give it another hour or so as this choice is a pretty big one! Don't want people to feel left out

>>4925719
>>It’s dangerous but you can Nitro Boost and hope the SPEED gets you away from the wall
Live by the SPEED, die by the SPEED

>>4925719
>>It’s dangerous but you can Nitro Boost and hope the SPEED gets you away from the wall

Alrighty! Been a little over an hour so I'll start writing it up right now.

>>4925724
>>4925728
>>4925833
>>4925862

You’re stuck against the wall, a death sentence if you can’t figure out how to get off it. You’ll lose the race and your life. You’re not sure which is worse. Your heart is hammering faster than your monster's pistons. There’s only one thought in your head. Get off the wall, win the race. You run through your options, absolutely none of them good. But one sticks out, one of them that is absolutely crazy. You thumb the nitro switch. Ride or die.

Everything slows down. You notice each and every individual spark as your beast continues to grind against the wall. It’s quite the fireworks show. You notice the crowd going absolutely wild, you’re not sure if it’s bloodlust or the usual racing enthusiasm. Either way, the world goes silent. All you can hear is the tiny little flick of a switch. That seals your fate.

It kicks in hard. You’re almost thrown off when the nitro hits. But you manage to hold on. Then, the light show stops. You’re off the wall somehow, you’re off the fucking wall! The world zooms back in, the crowds roar triples in intensity, your beast has been unchained and it bellows its approval. Aki takes a quick look behind her, you can almost feel her fear. Now is the time. You have one boost left. Of course you’re going to use it. But when?

>Wait to catch up to Aki then use it
>Use your final boost now
>Write in

Please roll me the final d20s for the Hells Run race! Also I realise I haven’t been putting
>Write in
As an option too often, please feel free to always submit your own ideas! I just forget sometimes

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4925883
>Wait to catch up to Aki then use it

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4925883
>>Wait to catch up to Aki then use it
Easy does it...

I understand the FEAR, but I do need one more roll. I can do it if necessary but I'd rather not

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4926030
Not sure what your policy is on players rolling again, but if you don't mind another from me...

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4925883
If nothing else, the audience will love us. From 1st to last to 2nd to near death to who knows what!
>>4926030
It is not just fear, it is immense dread.

File: FAST.gif (1.39 MB, 480x270)

1.39 MB GIF

>Didn't fuck it up
Phew. I like that 19 a lot more than my roll though.

>>4925943
>>4925950
>>4926035
>>4926038

Good thing your name is DREAD isn't it?

I'll have that update out fairly soon

This is it. The final stretch. There can’t be any backing down now, any second thoughts. You have to act and do it smart. You know you can catch up. You just aren’t sure if you can catch up and win. But there’s where the boost comes in, doesn't it? You’re off the wall, you’re alive, and you’re ready to fucking win.

Unleashing the beast you boom down the track towards Aki and the finish line. Nothing can stop you. That wolf’s grin you started with is back on your face. It’s time for the kill. Aki is constantly looking behind, at you and then back to the finish line. Trying to judge the distance. If she thinks she can win it now, she’s dead wrong. You could make her dead too, if you wanted. After all, she did unload a full clip into your ribs. But no, that isn’t why you’re here. That black and white checkered line is screaming your name.

You begin to close the distance, inches at a time. Aki flings her arm backwards with her pistol aimed at you. But she swung too hard, the pistol went flying out of her grip. You can hear the panic’d beat of her heart. Prey. You’re close to the finish line, so damn close. Your legs tremble, your breath comes in great gasps. You’re so damn close. Then, you’re neck and neck with Aki. You can see through her clear visor, wide eyes almost all whites. She can’t believe it. But you’re here, and then you’re not. You press the nitro button again using your last charge. Exploding past her, you cross the finish line a good bike's length ahead of her. No replays needed for this win. You’re the champion of Hells Run!

>>4926094

You pull hard and slide to a finish. Aki does the same. You can see her crying through her visor. She slumps across the front of her bike, knowing how close she was. How hard she failed. Soon the other racers cross the line, even Mistletoe creeps across the line. Good for him, finishing the race. You take a look at 3rd place, some rich corporate woman on a hoverbike. You’re not sure if she’s worth paying attention too as she barely finished ahead of the rest of them. But hey, it never hurts to know more about the competition. You get her callsign and congratulate her on her 3rd place finish. She’s called Stripes.

The medal ceremony goes fairly quickly, everyone there just wants to fucking party. Of course, when you take the stand the Sutherlund Industries theme plays and the colors of the company decorate the stage. Oh well, you signed up for this. Aki stays this time, to get her 2nd place medal. She leaves quickly and quietly once everything is done. You got to give her props though, 2nd place in Hells Run is nothing to sneeze at. She’ll have her pick of everything tonight.

Cameras flash and replays of highlights are played constantly. That bloodthirsty woman with all the guns took down at least two other riders. You hadn’t noticed but you probably saved some lives by taking her out. Even if it cost Mistletoe his chance at winning. Speaking of Mistletoe he congratulates you and even gives you a shoulder hug. Smiling widely and posing for the cameras.

“Good thing you won, Radiant. Or else I’d have to take away your license.” He says.

You just smile back. You hold out one finger like he did on the track. It’s almost a blinding wall of light as the cameras go off. Then you head off, there’s a special woman who wants to see you. Aleksandra Red is waiting in her family's booth. She’s almost bursting with excitement. If it wasn’t for her security detail patting you down you’re sure she would have tackled you as soon as you stepped out of the elevator. She has an open bottle of champagne, very expensive, and her cheeks are flushed red. She admits to hitting the bottle fairly hard when you were on the wall and Aki unloaded into you. She was crying when that happened, then sobbing when you came back to win it. She holds onto you for the rest of the night.

>Kiss the girl?

You spend the rest of the night partying it up. It’s not everyday you win the 2nd largest race in the city of New Light.


>1st place medal added to inventory (alongside Snake Ways medal)
>15 FUNDS added to wallet for a total of 16 FUNDS
>Major FAME increase, now well known and affiliation with Sutherlund Industries revealed

This is the last update from me today my friends! I hope you enjoyed the return of New Light Flights! I won’t be running tomorrow to give myself a break and to plot out a little of what’s to come. Have a wonderful night! I’ll be in the thread to ask any questions you might have.

>>4926095
Still have the fall out with Aki or we can change it to be half and half?
>Kiss the girl?yes

>>4926143
I'm not sure I understand the question there anon.

>>4926143
I'm pretty sure all chances at saving what scraps of friendship we had are long, long gone anon.

We've been too much of an asshole to her. Last chance we had was when Don tried to get us to work together to deal with our Blood Skulls problem. We turned her down and she stormed off, even if it was mostly because we didn't want to drag her into something that nearly got ourselves killed. Sunny was the better pick anyway, since he's well armed and had skin in the game.

But nah, bitch has shot us way too many times for me to be comfortable with. And she is probably still not over us bashing her jaw in, and smoking her in every race.

>>4926095
>Kiss the girl?

Hell yea, brother.

Thanks for running, man--to be honest I never gave this quest a try until now, but now you've got me re-reading the archives. Good shit!

>>4926181
Glad you liked it my friend! I've really enjoyed this and am looking forward to more!

>>4926095
What a wild fucking ride. God I love these race scenes, OP.
I feel a bit for Mistletoe. It's gotta suck to give up the race like that. Even if he did manage to finish, and come in at like 9/15 by default. At least he hopefully got some good recognition for what he did and our little photo shoot. I want the chance to race him again.

>Kiss the girl?
I'll let the others decide if we /u/boat this quest or not. Alek is a cutie either way.

>1st place medal added to inventory (alongside Snake Ways medal)
>15 FUNDS added to wallet for a total of 16 FUNDS
Bitchin'. Can you remind me, OP. What's our inventory and garage(+bike upgrades) look like right now?

>>4926221
I love writing the racing scenes as well! Glad you like them!

So you have 16 FUNDS

2 bikes, your first bike which is 3 SPEED and 3 MANEUVERS then your Heavy Bike which is 6 SPEED and 4 MANEUVERS with 2 more upgrade slots left

Both 1st place medals for your races

A crappy apartment and a penthouse suit given to you by Sutherlund Industries

A bulletproof catsuit and a small caliber pistol

I'm pretty sure that's everything, if I missed anything you can think of let me know!

SIDE STORY AKI

You are Aki Dread. Though you haven’t used the last name in quite a few years. It hurts too much. Physically, but mostly mentally. Melanie Dread was someone you considered a sister. Not by blood, you’re both street rats who were taken in by Don. But she was always there, the bigger sister taking care of your pathetic little self. You just tried to kill her over a stupid race. You’ve had differences. That became all the more obvious over the job that split you two, you rub your jaw and grimace, but it’s never been this bad. You’d never thought of actually killing her, but there you were in the heat of the moment. You saw a chance and unloaded a pistol into her side. Now, you are wallowing in the biggest pit of shame and disgust you’ve ever been in.

Don pours you another drink. He had greeted you when you walked in, in fact the entire bar was thrilled that a finalist in the Hells Run race was there. But Don didn’t smile at you when you entered. Something he’s never done before.

“You girls are going to be the death of me.” Don mutters.

You hold back tears, it’s been a long time since you’ve cried and you just cried all over the holo-terminals. Everyone in the city and no doubt the world wide fans of racing just saw you cry. If they thought it was over losing the race they’d be wrong. You stare down into the drink and all you can see in the reflection is someone you don’t recognize anymore. You’ve lost yourself. Where was the Aki that took in every stray animal? Where was the Aki that gave everyone the benefit of the doubt? Where was the Aki that loved her family?

“Am I too far gone Don? Can I ever be me again?” You whisper.

Don sighs and sits down next to you.

“Look kid, I ain’t going to lie to you. Never have, not going to start now. Things are bad between you and your sister. Real bad. I honestly don’t know if they can be fixed, but I’ve never known you to be a quitter. Now, whether or not you can forgive her for what she did. That’s up to you. But I do know this, you have to forgive yourself before you can do anything else.” Don says, wrapping you in a hug.

Don was there to pick you up that fateful night. To piece your jaw back together, wrap up your ribs. You could forgive her for that. But how she just disregarded the people in the trailer. How they were just a package to her, not real people. That, you don’t know about.

You are Aki Dread and you have quite a bit of thinking to do.

SIDE STORY MISTLETOE

You are Addar Storm, more commonly known as Mistletoe. You just lost the 2nd biggest race in New Light and not just by a few centimeters like last time. But by 8 other racers. 9th place in Hells Run. Not the best showing. But you and your friend Radiant are alive and that has to count for something right? You look into the mirror and sigh. Right?

You had a photo shoot with her right after the race. You got quite a bit of fame from it, all the news hosts are abuzz talking about how if you hadn’t helped out you might have won. They’re also talking about a secret love triangle between Radiant, Aleksandra Red, and you. That one you wish would stop.

Charlemagne's Motorcycles called you and congratulated you on surviving the race. Even if they were disappointed you didn’t win or even come in the top 3. They were still pretty happy with the amount of coverage they’ve been getting since you’re so close to Radiant. Still, you wish it was the other way around.

Sighing again you turn back to bed. Listening to the deep breathing of your boyfriend. He was there to comfort you after losing. Something you were very thankful for. You know some people don’t have that in their lives. You’ll make it through this slump, with the help from family and friends. You’re an excellent rider, you know this.

You are Addar Storm, a name that the world will know.

Just posting some side stuff I wrote up. My next real run will be on Friday I'm thinking. Might post some more stuff here and there but expect the story to continue on Friday unless I say otherwise.

Have a good Wednesday anons!

SIDE STORY ROSE

You are Rose. You’ve just watched Hells Run while getting absolutely hammered with what’s left of your Merc group, and you’ve noticed something very important. You never saw her face, but you did memorize what her bike looks like and it just won Hells Run. A smile creeps across your face. You have her callsign, you have her real name, you have the Corp she works for. All of this from a race. You cheered her on when she and Mistletoe took down Meryl, you never did like the bitch. You gasped at the drama of her sliding into the wall and roared with approval when she won. You like this Radiant, this Melanie Dread. Even if she single-handedly destroyed half your mercs bikes and set several on fire.

Your mind begins to spin, how to get in contact? How to get back at her? Even if you like her, she left a mark on your merc group that demands to be repaid. Money? No, too simple. Blood? Maybe, she did kill several of your employees. Service? This causes that grin to spread to a point where someone might call you a shark. Yes. Service. You’ll have to find a way to get your point across though. You doubt she’ll bend to your will out of the goodness of her heart.

You are Rose and it’s time to start planning.

You wake up with one hell of a hangover. You partied all night with Aleksandra and her friends. Roaming around the city to all the popular nightlife spots. You weren’t a fan of many but there’s one or two that made the list of your approval. You roll over and hit the floor. Turns out you were on a couch in the middle of Aleksandra’s apartment. Shaking your head clear, you hear loud snoring coming from what you assume is her bedroom.

Getting back up on the couch you hold your head in your hands. Wishing the pain would go away. You hear some movement in the corner and turn around startled. Standing almost perfectly still is a member of Aleksandra’s help. She’s dressed in a rather nice suit you’d expect from a butler and she’s looking in your direction but not at you.

“May I help you Miss Dread?” She says.

“Water please.” You manage to croak out.

“Hmm, of course. May I also suggest a small stim for the hangover? It works wonders or so I’m told.” She says.

“Please.” You nod your approval.

Laying back down on the couch you wait for the water and hangover medicine. You could get used to this. Soon enough the help returns with the best tasting water you’ve ever had in your life. Then, with a quick prick in the neck the stim hits your bloodstream and aggressively hunts down your hangover. Feeling quite a bit better you turn on the news. Watching hundreds of highlights from your race and the responses to it. As well as the more gossipy news stations that focused more on how and with whom you spent your night out. Lots of pictures of Aleksandra and you being very close and dancing together. One of the clips shows you dancing wildly to a cyber-jazz band with her. The cyber-sax player was good. But you’re better. Good times.

Deciding you better get a move on you collect most of your things. Making a small bit of noise you wander around picking up things here and there. The snoring from the other room stops and in a short minute Aleksandra appears in probably the smallest and deepest purple real silk robe you’ve ever seen. It takes more effort than you’d like to admit to tear your eyes from her legs. Luckily she’s yawning heavily when you do and you have hope she didn’t notice.

“Leaving already? We could stay in today, just the two of us.” She murmurs out between yawns.

File: Aleksandra Red.png (570 KB, 500x600)

570 KB PNG

>>4929439


“As nice as that sounds, I have some things to do today.” You say.

Walking over to her you grab her in a big hug that she enthusiastically returns.

“Thank you for the wonderful night.” You whisper in her ear.

“Of course! I had such a great time too! Anytime you want to hangout just give me a call. I'm almost always just stuck here in my apartment.” She says.

That does sound pretty terrible. But then you remember just how much security she goes out with and wonder if it’s better to just stay in then to go out if you have to deal with that.

“Oh!” She exclaims. “My father also wants to meet you! I’ll send you the time and place. It’ll be so fun to have lunch with you both!”

Oh good. Lunch with a Mega Corp CEO and his daughter who you don’t really understand your relationship with. That sounds like fun.

“Sounds like fun.” You say.

Saying your goodbyes you finally leave. Hopping on your bike you think about things you have to do.


>Go home (apartment or VIP suit) and do a little shopping
>Go to Dons
>Contact Sutherlund Industries (Job or Cybernetic shopping)
>Write in

>>4929442
>Contact Sutherlund Industries (Job or Cybernetic shopping)

>>4929442
>>Go to Dons

>>4929442
>>Contact Sutherlund Industries (Job or Cybernetic shopping)

>>4929692
>>4929718
>>4929817

You decide that the first order of business is to contact Sutherlund Industries. They’re right now your only source of employment though you’re not too sure about taking another job immediately after winning Hells Run. But, maybe you could take a peek at their cyber parts. You love to upgrade your bike but every now and then the rider needs to upgrade as well. You already have a Skeletal Strengthening augment and a Dermal Healing augment as well. Effectively giving you the strength to push around your heavy bike and drastically reduce damage you take. But you could always be more…

Ringing up Ms. Fathoms you suppress a shiver that her name sends down your spine. Her and her damn security team. Freaky.

“Radiant! My Darling! Congratulations on the win! I’ll have you know the BOARD is quite fond of racing and there’s been quite a bit of talk about you. As well as the one who brought you in.” You can imagine her teeth flashing in their oddly threatening way as she mentions herself.

“Thank you Ms. Fathoms. I was calling to see if I could browse the cybernetic options for my enhancement today.” You say, trying to stay plain and professional.

“Of course! Why, I’ll even have a live demonstration of each and every option for you when you get here! Anything for Sutherlund Industries rising star!” She says.

You thank her and end the call. Well, looks like your FAME is growing. Not just with the common people of the city, but with the MegaCorp side too. That thought sends more shivers down your spine. Common people are easy, they’re just like you. If they’re angry they’ll fight you and throw back a beer with you later. But a Corporate suit? They might just have your entire family executed on live holo for “Corporate Espionage” while turning you into a test subject. You wonder if that’s what happened to the PACKAGE. Quickly you shake the thought out of your head as you pull into Sutherlund Industries.

Ms. Fathoms greets you in the lobby and as usual is a nonstop fountain of words as she guides you through to the cybernetic labs. Then to a more private area where the more, how shall we say, legally grey items are.

>>4929982


You have 16 FUNDS, Ms. Fathoms is ecstatic you won the race and is giving you a further discount tacked on to your employee discount.

>-10 FUNDS Arm Blades. A length of sharpened steel is slipped into your arm for access to a very lethal melee weapon at all times

>-10 FUNDS Nanofiber wire. A length of nanofiber wire is spooled into your arm. It can be activated as a deadly slicing whip or as a rope of sorts.

>-10 FUNDS Ocular Replacements. Your eyes are removed and replaced with cybernetic prosthetics. You have a host of different settings like night vision, heat signatures, and even a slight ability to see through flimsy walls. Not to mention clothes.

>-10 FUNDS Neural Implant. This is much more than the basic implant you asked about before. This comes with a whole host of features instead of just linking you to your bike. Allowing you to browse data instantly, take calls without a sound, interact with any digital equipment regardless of your skill level with it. It comes all neatly wrapped in Sutherlunds Industries world renowned security system.

>Write in. What would you like to see?

>>4929986
>-10 FUNDS Neural Implant. This is much more than the basic implant you asked about before. This comes with a whole host of features instead of just linking you to your bike. Allowing you to browse data instantly, take calls without a sound, interact with any digital equipment regardless of your skill level with it. It comes all neatly wrapped in Sutherlunds Industries world renowned security system.

Sounds pretty useful utility-wise.

>>4929986
>>-10 FUNDS Neural Implant. This is much more than the basic implant you asked about before. This comes with a whole host of features instead of just linking you to your bike. Allowing you to browse data instantly, take calls without a sound, interact with any digital equipment regardless of your skill level with it. It comes all neatly wrapped in Sutherlunds Industries world renowned security system.

I think I'll leave this choice up for another half hour to an hour. It's a large chunk of your money. I'll let you all know when I start writing!

alrighty! Went out for dinner and back and writing now!

>>4926975
Rough times for the whole Dread family. And Don gives me warm and fuzzy feelings.
>>4926979
Damn it, QM, stop making me feel bad about being the bestest and fastest racer ever!
>>4927360
Immense fear.

Thanks for the side stories. They were short and sweet and pretty dang fun to read. Nice insight into some of the other cast.

>>4929986
>-10 FUNDS Nanofiber wire. A length of nanofiber wire is spooled into your arm. It can be activated as a deadly slicing whip or as a rope of sorts.
Pocket rope sounds pretty nice. Eye and brain implants just seem a bit too uncertain for me. And gives us a nice weapon like the arm blades, since I am still partial to the idea of Radiant disliking guns.

>>4929986
>>>-10 FUNDS Neural Implant. This is much more than the basic implant you asked about before. This comes with a whole host of features instead of just linking you to your bike. Allowing you to browse data instantly, take calls without a sound, interact with any digital equipment regardless of your skill level with it. It comes all neatly wrapped in Sutherlunds Industries world renowned security system.

>>4929992
>>4930034
>>4930319
>>4930341

Like Ms. Fathoms said she had a live demonstration of every piece of hardware you could want. The eyes, the blades, but it was the Neural Implant that held your attention. You just saw so much utility in it, plus it could give you live diagnostic feedback on your bike as you were riding it. A goddamn dream came true. But what sealed the deal is when Ms. Fathoms called you and talked you through the entire demonstration without saying a word aloud. That was impressive.

“I’ll have the Neural Implant.” You say.

“Of course darling! A spectacular choice if I may say so myself. I’ve had one since all those nasty bugs were sorted out.” She says and smiles with her shark teeth.

“Bugs?” You ask.

“Oh don’t worry about those darling. Like I’ve said, they’ve all been sorted out and if I trust something enough to put it in my brain. It’s safe.” She reassures you.

You guess you agree with her. Most people don’t put things that they know are deadly into themselves. Shrugging, you transfer the FUNDS. Apparently it’s not even that much of an operation. A quick in and out where they jam a chip into your brain and call it a day. You don’t know how to feel about that. But you sit down and they knock you out. Waking up is a blur. It’s twice as painful as the hangover earlier.

“Yeah it’s gonna hurt for a while. Your brain making new pathways for the chip functions. You’ll be seeing stuff for a while and since you still have actual eyes the bio interface with data browsing isn’t as intuitive as it could be. But hey! At least you can do it now.” The medical aid informs you.

“I see.” You say.

“Just work it as much and as often as you can. It’s a new muscle we slapped into your brain. You’re going to want to exercise it. Take one of these a day when you wake up. It helps with the pain.” He says leaving and giving you a bottle of pills to take.

>>4930343


Well. Now you’re truly part of the cyber future. Sure you had the Skeletal Strengthening and the Dermal Healing augmentations. But those are pretty common, even amongst street rats like yourself. But this Neural Implant? This is what top dogs use. This is the future. You spend several minutes just sitting in the chair running through the new things you can do. Like the aid said, it was hard to see holonet data. Maybe next time you’d get a new pair of eyes. Really link the Neural Implant up.

Calling the elevator without moving a muscle was a fun thing. Something so small and yet it felt so good to do. Even if it spiked the pain in your head. But then, you sat down on your bike. You’ve always felt like you were one with it. Like you knew every nook and cranny, every bolt and drop of lubricant. But you have never felt it as much as you have now. The instant rush of data about the engine and the weight slams into you. You know that the engine is misfiring but less than a tenth of a percent. That you should really move one of the armor plates two inches highers to better set the center of balance. Your legs grip the motorcycle tightly, you’re shaking on top of it. This is the most goddamn amazing feeling you’ve ever had.

>Go to Don’s
>Go Home
>Call Someone (Who?)
>Write in

>>4930319
Thanks! It was a lot of fun writing up those side stories so I'm glad you enjoyed them!

>>4930347
>Go to Don’s

>>4930347
>Go to Don’s
Might as well. We still are sitting pretty, cash wise, and there isn't anything super pressing at the moment.

Who's numbers do we even have? Outside of the main people we've interacted with before in this thread, at least?

>>4930347
>>Go Home

>>4930359
Aleksandra Red
Felicia Fathoms (Sutherlund Industries handler)
Addar Storm (Mistletoe)
Don
A defunct link to Dawn Inc.
Stripes (3rd place finisher in Hells Run)
Sunny (Dawn Inc. runner)
Aki (you're not sure if it's still her number)

That's about everyone off the top of my head

>>4930354
>>4930359
>>4930361

You spend several minutes on top of your bike. Marveling at how you’ve interfaced with it. Now all you’ve got to do is actually drive the thing while freaking out about how amazing it is. It takes a little at first but you do get used to the rush of information as you move around.

Don’s is the next stop on the list. You’ve got to say hi to the old man. Let him see the winner of the Hells Run in person. You smile, have to pay your respects too. He’s the one that got you into bikes and racing as is. You take a scenic route to his bar, the Angry Dragon. People notice you as you drive on. Lots of pictures and waving. Someone even tries to roll up on you hot and challenge you to a race but you really don’t give a shit.

Pulling up to the Angry Dragon, it’s hard to get off the bike. Shutting it off was almost like turning off a part of your heart. The pain comes back and you’re left less than whole as you slide off your bike. You honestly can’t wait to get back on it more than ever now.

Walking in you shout and wave at Don. He looks up from his bar and smiles at you.

“There she is! THE winner of the Hells Run race!” Don cheers.

You laugh and sit down at the bar, ordering your usual. An Anarchists Riot and a shot of tequila.

“One pisswater beer and a shot of bad decisions. Coming right up.” Don slams them down in front of you.

You down the shot and start sipping the beer.

“Oh come on, it isn’t that bad a beer!” You say.

Don just sighs and shakes his head.

“Of all the things I could have taught you, why'd I forget to give you a sense of taste.” Don laughs out.

You stick your tongue out at him and laugh. This feels great, this feels like the old days when it was just you and him and Aki. The thought of Aki sobers you a little. She did just try to kill you in Hells Run. But hey, you’re with Don right now. Not Aki.

“So how was it? How was racing in Hells Run?” Don asks.

You spend the next hour talking to Don about every little detail in the race. He asks all the right questions and soon you have a crowd listening in. You regale them all of your race even as highlights play on the holos around the bar. It’s just not the same as hearing it from someone in the race. Soon you end your story and get back to having one on one time with Don. He looks you up and down.

“How are the ribs?” He asks.

“You mean how are my ribs after Aki tried to kill me?” You mutter.

“I guess I do.” Don says, looking past you.

You haven’t seen Don this down in a long time. Not since the schism that tore you and Aki apart in the first place.

“They’re okay I guess. Nothing got through the suit and nothing is broken.” You say.

“Well that’s good.” Don states.

>>4930423


The silence gets a little awkward. You aren’t really in the mood to talk about Aki right now. Excusing yourself to the restroom, you splash some water on your face. Funny how the Implant even detects the water pressure and brings up several local plumber numbers. You chuckle and lift up your shirt to check your ribs. You see a dozen holes weeping blood. Stunned, all you can do is look. Pale flesh painted a deep black red. You feel them hammering into your side again and the pain comes back to you. You shake your head and close your eyes. You know this isn’t real, just like when you came back from the Dark Suns mission. Opening them again you see your normal self. Black and blue from the bruises but no bullet holes.

Leaving the restroom you sit back at the bar with Don. You’re still a little spooked and he notices something is off.

“Hey, is there something wrong?” Don asks.

>I’m fine
>I’m not okay
>write in

Hey all, I really struggled writing this update so I think I'll call it a night here. I have tomorrow off and will be updating all day as long as I have players to run with!

I'll be in the thread if you want to give me some feedback or ask questions. I'll just be playing Rimworld lol

>>4930424
>>I’m fine

>>4930424
>I’m fine

>>4930426
No sweat, man--thanks for running and rest up!

>>4930424
>I’m not okay

>>4930424
>>I’m not okay

>>4930424
>>I’m not okay

>>4930504
>>4930506
>>4930559
>>4930578
>>4930735

“I don’t know Don. Things have been moving so damn fast you know? It feels like yesterday I was cooking breakfast with Aki in our shitty apartment and now I spent the night in a MegaCorps CEO’s daughter suite. Every job I’ve done lately involves death nipping at my heels and usually leaves my hands bloodied somehow. I guess I’m just tired Don, I keep seeing how things might have turned out. Being strangled, a bullet to the head, my suit failing. It just keeps creeping up on me.” You chug down the rest of your beer.

Don takes a minute to think. Grabbing you another beer while he does so. He opens a very special bottle of whiskey he keeps for more serious conversations and pours himself a glass.

“You’ve chosen a very dangerous life, Mel.” Don says, he hasn’t called you Mel since you turned 13. “It’s going to be fast and brutal. Only the best make it to the top and do you know what waits for them there? Nothing but more blood and death. There is no rest there, you have to deal with every poor bastard who thinks they’ve got what it takes to get there too.”

Don swallows. He’s looking you right in the eyes.

“I’ve done terrible things Mel. I lived your life once and just about everyone I ever knew in those years is dead or worse. Either by my hands or someone else's. Sometimes I don’t sleep for days because of the nightmares.” Don takes a sip of his whiskey.

You remember those days. You always wondered why he was up all the time. But those were good days for you, he showed you and Aki everything you two knew about bikes. He took you two places and you tried things you’ve never tried before. He played with you two in the very few parks that still existed years ago. It sends shivers down your spine to know that he was suffering so much during those times. You begin to tear up.

“You’re going to do things Mel, things that keep you up. Things that make you scream and cry and rage. Especially now that you signed with Sutherlund. You don’t really have a choice of saying no now. I’m no therapist, but you have to find an anchor. To keep you sane. I drifted for so long, it wasn’t until two little dipshit street rats who wouldn’t stop stealing from my trash cans showed up that things got better. I found something to dedicate my life to. It doesn’t stop the memories, but it makes them easier to handle.” Don finishes his whiskey.

You let the tears come out. Don sits next to you and wraps one big arm around you. You spend the next few minutes crying into his hug. It’s tears of relief, fear, and tiredness. You feel a great deal better after talking to Don. Maybe you should do this more often.


>Go Home (Motorcycle upgrade shopping and time skip to next job)
>Talk to Don more (about what?)
>Write in

>>4930861
>>Write in
drink

>>4930861
>Write in
>Drink and let Don know to call us if he ever needs anything or just needs to talk. He's been there for us all these years, he should have someone he can rely on every once and a while too.

>>4931098
+1

>>4930992
>>4931098
>>4931135

You stay longer and keep talking to Don well into the night. Progressively getting more and more drunk. It’s a nice release, it also helps the pain in your head. You do shock Don when you say you got the Neural Implant and amuse him when you turn every holo in the place onto the same stupid kids show you and Aki watched as kids without leaving your chair.

“Damn kid, that implant is some serious stuff. Just be careful you don’t get fried because of it.” Don slurs out.

You wave it off and continue drinking with Don. It’s dawn when you stumble into his spare bedroom. Your old shared bedroom. Slumping into bed you think about Aki. You wonder if you can forgive her for what she did. Almost ruining a run over some PACKAGES then shooting you because of it. Then the most recent attempt on your life during the race. You wonder when she turned so hard. She was always so sweet, so soft. Maybe you should have let her take more knocks growing up, but you were the big sister. Big sisters take care of their little sisters right? Bleh, you can’t stand thinking about it anymore. You pass out cuddled up on your old bed.

Waking up is misery. Again. But this time you’re hungover and still have a brain chip to numb as well. Taking one of those pills you find some relief but not much. Looking around the room you’re filled with memories. Memories you aggressively put a stop to. Getting up you find Don making breakfast. He’s making some synth-eggs and actual real life bacon.

“Damn Don, when’d you get real meat?” You ask.

Don laughs and moves the food to plates and hands you one.

“I’ve had it for a minute, just looking for a special occasion to use it. You won Hells Run and had a breakthrough last night. Can’t think of any better time than now!.” Don says.

You both scarf down the synth-eggs but take your time savouring the bacon. It’s crispy and goddamn delicious.

“Hey Don.” You start.

He hums back.

“I know that I can always talk to you about my problems. But I hope that you know that you can always talk to me also. I never realised you had so much pain.” You say

Don’s quiet for a moment. Finishing off the rest of his bacon he stands and takes both your plates. It’s with his back turned to you that he starts talking.

“I appreciate it, Mel. When I have another bad episode I’ll let you know. We’ll go do something huh? Just promise you’ll reach out to me more too.” Don says.

“Of course.” You say.

You stand and get ready to leave. Turning to Don, you give him the biggest hardest hug you can. Which is surprisingly strong given your augments. Don wheezes and laughs returning it. You part ways happy.

>Go home (bike upgrade shopping)
>Call someone
>Time Skip to next job
>Write in

>>4931170
>Time Skip to next job

>>4931170
>Time Skip to next job
After that is time to splurge all our cash on upgrading our baby.

>>4931239
>>4931261


You spend most of your time at home, working on your bike. With the implant you’re able to recognize so many tiny normally undetectable performance issues. It’s truly amazing. You spend a lot of time just flexing your new mind muscle. Browsing holodata and making calls. Turns out talking without actually vocalizing is incredibly hard. But you manage to make several calls successfully. Including one with Dom right infront of him. He was truly blown away by it.

It isn’t too long before you get restless. You’ve never been one to rest on your laurels and there’s only so many times you can watch the highlights before you just want to race again. Luckily you get a call. Unfortunately, it’s from Ms. Fathoms.

“Hello Radiant! How are you darling?” Ms. Fathoms continues without letting you answer “I have the 3rd and final job from our little contract from before you signed on. It’ll be easy! Just drop on by and we’ll fill you in on the details.”

You never even had a chance to respond before she hangs up. Shrugging, you gather your normal kit and head on out. Meeting Ms. Fathoms in her office just like every other time. Her security detail is there as well. The two heavily augmented women who scare the living shit out of you. You wonder if they started off like you, getting one or two augments when suddenly they were fully cyber’d out. Either way, they give you the quick once over only this time you feel a very weird feeling in your head as they do.

“Ah yes, don’t mind the pings darling. They’re just checking your security so that no one's listening in through you.” Ms. Fathoms smiles her famous smile.

“That can happen?” You ask.

You do not like how Ms. Fathoms smirks. You especially really hate the looks the twins give you. It makes you feel small and dumb.

“I’ll get you an owners manual sometime darling. But for now, on to business. It’s a simple job. You’re going to deliver a Nikita to a club. Then you’re going to bring her back. Simple!” Ms. Fathoms says.

Oh. The mention of Nikita makes your skin crawl. She’s so cyber’d out she doesn’t even look human anymore. She was also the first job you had for Sutherlunds Industries. Trafficking Nikita to them. Well, you’re just going to have to suck it up and do it. You agreed to 3 jobs for Sutherlunds Industries before you even signed on with them. So now it’s time to pay up.

“Oh and, we’d suggest using a low profile bike. We’d hate to have you recognized on this little job. I trust you have another? If not, we can always provide one from our own garage as well.” Ms. Fathoms says.


>Oh hell no, you’re using your baby (Heavy Bike)
>You have your old bike, it’s not as modded but it can do the job (Old Bike)
>Write in

>>4931342

>deliver a Nikita
should just be
>deliver Nikita

>>4931342
Our old bike is what we used on most of our early career and during the first race we partook in. So it isn't like it is super low profile. I forget if we bought a custom paint job for it or not. We should probably get a more low-profile corp bike sooner rather than later, maybe with some color-changing nanopaint camo.

It might be worth grabbing one of theirs, though we should make sure if they are comfortable with us returning it in less than pristine conditions/ how many bullet holes are acceptable. Otherwise, take the old one and hope we don't have too many ultra-obsessive fans yet.

>Write-in: Question
What does she want us to do if the Nikita doesn't come back out? We're transport first and foremost, I hope she isn't expecting us to go full blender mode and extract her if the worst does happen.

>>4931403


“What if Nikita doesn’t come back?” You ask.

Ms. Fathoms smirks again. You really hate that.

“Don’t worry about that. You’ll drop her off in the alleyway. You’ll wait 60 seconds. Then you AND Nikita will come back here.” She says.

“Okay. If I take a bike from here what condition does it need to be in when it gets back?” You ask.

“Darling, you can scrap the damn thing, we don’t care. Just get Nikita back here.” Ms. Fathoms states.

>Use their Bike
>Use your Heavy Bike
>Use your Old Bike
>Write in

>>4931581
>>Use their Bike

>>4931581
>Use their bike

>>4931581
>Use their Bike

>>4931581
>Use their Bike

>>4931581
>Use their Bike

>>4931726
>>4931897
>>4932062
>>4932268
>>4932290


“Oh and before you leave, I have a gift for you!.” Ms. Fathoms says.

She walks over to her desk and grabs something from beneath it. Pulling out a box, she opens it and hands you two catsuits. One is branded with Sutherlund Industries colors and the other one is pure black with no identifying marks at all.

“In the future, for jobs that don’t involve a little bit of secrecy. You’ll be expected to wear the Sutherlund Industries clothing. I trust you understand which one to use for this job. Also, don’t worry, they’re both bulletproof just like your old one.” Ms. Fathom says.

Then she shoos you away.

“Go get ready. The job is ready and waiting for you.” Ms. Fathom says.

Taking both catsuits you turn and head towards a bathroom to change. Then heading down to the garage you find there’s a bike waiting next to yours. Storing everything you don’t need on your bike, you hop on the other one. It feels wrong, it feels sick. Your implant tells you everything that’s wrong with it and goddamn is the list long. It’ll do, but you’re going to have to have a word with the mechanics here when you’re done.

You’re not alone for long, the elevator dings and out walks Nikita. She’s dressed in a fairly skimpy clubbing outfit and saunters over to you. She’s showing far more emotion than the last time you saw her.

“Hi! I’m Nikita.” She says.

“Uh, hello. I’m Radiant.” You say.

“I remember you!” She exclaims.

That makes your blood run cold. How could she possibly remember you? She was knocked out cold for the entirety of your ride. It makes you fear for a moment.

“You were at my recital!” She says.

Recital? Oh, she must mean when Ms. Fathoms sent you to see Nikita in action. That makes you less tense but brings back memories of just how incredibly deadly she is. Plus, why did she call it a recital?

“Ready to go?” You ask.

“Of course!” She says.

She hops on behind you and puts a helmet on. Then latching onto you with extreme strength, you’re more worried she’ll crush you then fall off the back of the bike. Starting up the bike, you wince as that long list of problems gets longer. It’ll do for now though. You start out on your way. It’s a pleasant drive despite the fact that you’re riding with a death machine latched to your back. Nothing comes up on your way there, looks like this is going to be an easy job. At least getting there will be. It isn’t too long until you pull up to the alleyway you’re supposed to wait in right outside Club Neon. Nikita hops off and checks her hair in the reflection of one of her arm blades she pops out all of a sudden. It makes you tense the fuck up. But she laughs and puts the blade away.

“I’m looking good! Now you stay right here and keep the motor running! I’ll be right back.” She says.

>>4932311

You just nod. This is the nerve wracking part. The waiting. What if she doesn’t come back out, what if she needs to be rescued? How do you compete with anything that gives Nikita trouble? The thoughts race through your head. But one comes back, why did she call it a recital?

It isn’t too long until you find out. The screaming starts. The gunshots start. You see some people come out the front entrance panicking as they leave. They’re all covered head to toe in blood. You even see a man stumble out holding a stump where his arm should be. He’s not screaming, just walking forward until he falls face first into the street. Oh. This is what she meant by recital. It’s over as soon as it begins. The screams and gunshots are over. No one else leaves the club except one woman. Nikita. She’s absolutely slathered in blood and completely naked. The few onlookers who didn’t just start running when everything started stare slack jawed at her. One’s too close, Nikita eviscerates him in less than a second. This causes the rest to scatter.

Nikita then calmly walks over to you in the alleyway. Hopping on the back she again grabs hold. You’re absolutely frozen. Just like Ms. Fathoms said. 60 seconds in the alleyway then you bring Nikita home.

“So, like, are we going to leave? The sooner we go the more of a headstart we have against the law enforcement mercs and the corporate mercs that are coming.” She states.

This kicks you into gear. Slamming the accelerator you rocket out of the alleyway into the street. You have to get rid of this goddamn maniac.

>The straightest possible route
>You have to dodge Mercs, take a winding route
>Write in

>>4932314
>>You have to dodge Mercs, take a winding route

>>4932314
>You have to dodge Mercs, take a winding route

>>4932314
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7uDB0mOwpA
Felt fitting for what the inside probably looks like.

>>4932314
>You have to dodge Mercs, take a winding route

>>4932332
>>4932350
>>4932454

As much as you just want to get rid of her. You have to do this smartly. She just slaughtered an entire night club. You were seen rocketing away with her on your bike. The law enforcement mercs will be on you and she said something about corp mercs too. Maybe there was a corp target she took out? Either way, that’s nothing to joke about. Either one of those groups on your ass is trouble, both of them? Major trouble. The longer you evade them, the better.

You start off going the wrong way for a few blocks. Then double back and take some alleyways to actually head towards your destination. You’re lucky enough to see and avoid some heavily modified merc vehicles flying towards where you were last seen. Going full blast you’re pretty sure they’d smoke you in a straight up fight or flight.

“Hello? Is this thing working?” Nikita says.

You feel the words in your head. She’s opened a channel with your implant. You really don’t like it. Her voice in your head is mechanical, robotic. Nothing like the voice she was using earlier.

“Yes. It is. What do you want?” You respond.

“Just making sure we can stay in contact. If it comes to combat I’m very effective in close quarters.” She says.

“I’ve noticed.” You say.

“Very effective. You should use this Implant of yours. You might be able to listen in to some of the holo chatter between the mercs.” She says.

Huh. She has a point. Though to do that you’d have to actually break an encryption and even with the Implants help it would be difficult. You’re hiding in an alleyway right now.

>Try to listen in
>Just try to get back
>Write in

Roll me some d20s friends!

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4932504
>Write in
Ask her to listen in on the mercs and update us as we move.

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4932504
>>4932520
+1
That sounds like a good idea. Focus most of our attention on driving, get the key points as we go.

Hey friends, I need one more roll for this. I also won't be updating today but I will be tomorrow! Hope your Monday is going well anons!

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4932554

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4933485

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4932504
>>Just try to get back

>>4932520
>>4932554
>>4933531
These rolls are the counted rolls!

“Why don’t you listen in and tell me instead?” You say.

“I’ll see what I can do.” She says and a little hum begins to scratch in your brain.

“They’re moving towards where we were last seen but they’re suspicious, they’re spreading out a little? Their encryption is pretty tough.” She says.

Okay. Well, only one thing to do. Get back on the road. Creeping out of the alleyway you look down the street for the mercs. Not seeing any you launch yourself out and head towards your goal. Taking even more backstreets and alleyways you try to stay hidden. But with every person you pass you know it’s only a matter of time. After all, you’re carrying a naked woman covered in blood. Hardly inconspicuous.

“There’s some chatter about us moving this way. Looks like they figured out we’re not back there. Better get a move on.” Nikita chimes in.

Well shit. Guess that time is now. You have a few more miles to Sutherlunds Industries. You might have been able to outrun the mercs on your own bike but not on this borrowed one. Not after you saw what they deployed to come after you. You wonder just how many died in that club, but honestly WHO died to warrant such a response.

“They have deployed helicopters. One will be over this area in 2 minutes.” Nikita says.

That’s just great. Land and air. This just keeps getting better and better. Then to add to things. You get a call from Ms. Fathoms.

“Darling! Good to hear you’re alive and well. Now, we have a change of plans. It’s a little too hot to bring Nikita back to our main facilities. So we have a safehouse for you to go to. Enjoy the ride!” Ms. Fathoms says then hangs up.

You almost feel like crying when you see the safehouse location. It’s back where you just came from! You’re going to have to slip the merc net this way, then double back and either dodge it again or break through it. You’re filled with anger. They could have just given you this safehouse in the first place.

“The helicopter will be over us in 1 minute.” Nikita says.

Time to go.

>Continue moving on, try to out pace the helicopter
>No, it’s better to hide. Find some shelter that covers you from the air
>Write in

>>4935125
>>No, it’s better to hide. Find some shelter that covers you from the air
>Let's see if we can snag a tarp, curtain, or bag to wrap Nikita in.
Even if it isn't much, it should make it a lot harder to spot her at a passing glance.

>>4935125
>>4935731
+1 to this. Slow and steady!

>>4935125
>>Continue moving on, try to out pace the helicopter

>>4935731
>>4935963
>>4935986

You have to be smart about this. The people hunting you aren’t dipshit gangers and you’re not on your powerful beast. Taking a quick look around you spot an open garage. Quickly moving into it you hear the helicopter overhead just as you manage to pull the door shut.

“Good thinking. I’d have just run and killed whoever got in my way.” Nikita says.

“That’s not usually how I do things.” You respond.

“Really? Looking at your track record there’s a pretty decent amount of blood.” She says.

“Not by choice.” You say. Nikita laughs and hums at that.

Looking around you try to find something to cover Nikita with. Anything to cover her up. You can skirt by with the red on her face, that could just be makeup. But being completely naked covered in blood? That’s something that can’t usually be ignored. Not in the part of town you’re in anyway. Finally spotting a pile of clothes in a corner you sort through them to find something for Nikita. She watches you with lazy interest, like a cat with a mouse.Finding a jacket and some shorts you throw them at Nikita.

“Put those on.” You demand.

“What? Don’t like what you see?” Nikita laughs.

She poses and runs a hand down her nude self. Smearing around the blood that hasn’t dried on her yet. It makes you want to vomit. She laughs and puts the clothes on. Shrugging the jacket on, she walks over to you. Looming over you she smiles and takes a pose.

“How do I look?” She asks.

“Fine.” You say.

She pouts and stomps around. It doesn’t matter, it covers her fairly well. It was mostly to cover her up. It’s odd to say but having a nude woman covered in blood on your bike is worse than having a dressed woman covered in blood on your bike. Less eye-catching at least.

Waiting around another few minutes makes you think it’s time to move out. Opening the garage door you take a quick peek left and right. You wave to Nikita and hop on the bike. She hops on and puts you back into that crushing vice like grip. Time to go.

“Nothing on the Merc comms. They might have figured out we were listening in.” Nikita says.

The news just always gets better on this job.


>Try to make up some time by taking some normal streets now that Nikita is covered
>Keep crawling through backstreet neighborhoods
>Write in

Please roll me some d20s friends!

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4936414
>>Keep crawling through backstreet neighborhoods

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4936414
>>Try to make up some time by taking some normal streets now that Nikita is covered

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4936414
>>Keep crawling through backstreet neighborhoods
I like Nikita, she is fun. Fucking insane for most people, but fun.

>>4936877
Nice! I'll have an update ready for you all tomorrow! She's fun to write too!

>>4936514
>>4936581
>>4936877
“Wait, I’m getting something.” Nikita says. “They’ve set up roadblocks and checkpoints along all major routes and several back roads.”

She then sends the data to you. It’s hazy but you can still make out the map.

“Thank you.” You begrudgingly say.

“Of course, friend!” Nikita then hugs you closer, you feel as if your ribs are going to snap.

Putting the map to good use, you make great time towards your destination. There’s only a few more miles to go when you hit your first obstacle. A roaming patrol that’s gone a little out of its way. It’s a Dark Suns truck. You’re stopped at an intersection and there’s only one thing you can do. Just blend in.

The Dark Suns pull up right next to you. The first thing you notice is the blaring loud music from the truck. The next thing is the intense amount of head bobbing the driver and passengers are doing. They don’t even look at you as they drive away. Nikita laughs and you can’t help but chuckle along with her.

“I was ready to launch through their vehicle and take all their heads home!” Nikita says in between laughs.

That stops your chuckle. Right, she’s a homicidal maniac. Time to keep moving.

You’ve got a map and you’re going to follow it to avoid the Dark Suns. Taking your time you finally make it to the safehouse. It was a close thing but you made it undetected. If you had even just slightly less luck you’d have had to deal with a whole hive of trouble falling on you. Pulling into the garage you give a great sigh of relief. Nikita hops off and disappears into the house. You’re fine with that. You decide to call up Ms. Fathoms and tell her the job is done.

“Hello darling! How goes the escort?” She says when she finally picks up.

“It’s done, we evaded detection and made it here safely.” You say bluntly.

“Good!” Is that a little bit of disappointment in her voice? “We wouldn’t want to see how our star runner and Nikita would handle that kind of action. I’m glad you made it there safely. Now you’ll just have to wait until we give the all clear and you can leave!” She says.

“Wait wha-” You say and get promptly hung up on.

You’re stuck in here with that cyber’d out killing machine for god knows how long. This can’t be real.

“Hey! Are you coming in? I found food!” Nikita yells.

Oh god.

>Mission Complete

>Write in

I’ll incorporate the write-ins if you all have any into an update about your time with Nikita stuck in the safe house! I won’t be updating Friday but I’ll be back on Saturday!

>>4938796
I realize
>write in
might be a little vague. What I mean by it is is there anything you want to say to Nikita or do with her? Just a way to have some interaction with the little montage I'll be writing up for you time in the safe house.

>>4938796
>Proximity to instant rape radius of cyber murder machine is one thing, but Food's call is a sweet siren song. Get Food. Time to relax as much as we can now that the ride's done.
Maybe she isn't *just* a preprogrammed walking blender? Does she have interests or talk about things beyond cleaving through rooms full of people? Does she have any shows she likes to watch?

Maybe she likes cyber-jazz?

>>4940009
+1

File: Nikita.jpg (1.3 MB, 1920x2716)

1.3 MB JPG

Food. Food is good. Nikita calls out again and you walk inside to find her shoveling ingredients onto the kitchen counter. She looks over at you and smiles.

“I’ll make us dinner!” She says.

“How about you shower first and then do that.” You say.

She looks down at herself and shrugs.

“You really don’t like this blood stuff huh? Hey! Idea! Why don’t we shower together?” She asks and winks at you.

“Please just shower.” You mutter back.

“Your loss!” She laughs and wanders away to hunt for a bathroom.

Sighing, you take a look around the place. It’s pretty nice. Much nicer than your old apartment. Not as nice as your VIP suite. The food that Nikita took out looks fresh and real. Even the meat looks like it’s the real deal and not a onions substitute. Well, at least you’ll be waiting around in comfort.

Taking a seat at the table you turn on a holo set and start browsing. Not surprisingly but you’re on all of the major news networks. “Massacre at Club Neon.” “Bloodbath at Neon.” and even a slightly less tasteful “Club Goers Shoved Into Blender at Neon.” Then you read the death toll. 72 dead and 23 hospitalized. Your stomach churns a little at the numbers. Still, you read on. There’s a little footage of the accident but it looks like Nikita’s equipped with something that scrambles the footage because it’s in absolutely terrible quality. You can’t really tell what’s going on until red starts washing out every other color. Then you hit something that stops you cold. One of the victims was a board member of the Dark Suns. The largest private security and law enforcement merc corp in the city. That makes you shiver just a little. They’re not going to be letting this go anytime soon. How long are you going to be here?

Nikita wanders back in after a while. Nude. Again. She just shrugs and says the clothes you gave her were bloody. You insist she checks the bedrooms for clothes and she stomps off. Coming back in underwear she starts cooking. Good enough you guess. Nikita turns out to be quite the chef. Though you do see her use her arm blades instead of knives. You gotta use what you got you guess. A nice real steak and a salad with real vegetables makes a very satisfying meal. You notice Nikita’s portion is fairly small. You wonder if she even needs to eat any more.

Time goes by slowly at first, it’s never easy getting adjusted to sharing space with another person. Especially when that person just murdered close to a hundred people and you helped them escape. But it does get easier. Nikita cooks and you clean, you find that you don’t share any interests in shows but you do in music. You both love cyber-jazz. Nikita’s eyes grow three times their size when you finally admit that you can play cyber-sax. She begs you to play for her sometime and you laugh and agree. She does constantly hit on you and though you keep refusing it does get annoying. When you confront her about it she shrugs.

>>4941042

“It’s something to do to pass the time. Plus, it’s one of the only parts of me that is still flesh. It’s always nice to get some feeling. Plus plus, my hands can vibrate.” She says that last part with quite the evil smile.

“Oh, well. Please stop, I’m just not interested.” You say.

Nikita nods and doesn’t bring it up again. Though you do hear some noises that you wish you didn't for several nights. After that things got better. You start to see that while still a cybernetically kitted the fuck out killing machine, she’s still a person. You share some of your past with her and she shares what she can remember with you.

“I’ve been with Sutherlunds Industries for as long as I can remember. From what I’ve been told my parents sold me off to them. I’ve been a test subject for a while. Tried to escape a month or two ago. But, they got me!” She laughs.

You laugh along but there’s nothing behind it but fear. You pray to whatever the hell is out there that she never learns it was you that brought her back.

“But honestly, it’s not too bad when I’m allowed free reign. Sometimes they do this thing in my brain that just makes me feel like a zombie you know? I get free food, a nice place to live, and I get all these cool toys!” She pops out her blade arms and takes an action hero stance.

Another week goes by and you’re really starting to feel cooped up now. You haven’t heard anything from Ms. Fathoms and every time you look at the holos they’re still talking about searching for the “Neon Maimer”. But when the third week rolls around you get a call from Ms. Fathoms.

“Radiant! Darling, we think it’s about time you and Nikita came home. We’re sending over your bike and we’ll be taking Nikita back. Good job! Most of the people we put in safe houses wind up dead because they don’t stay in the damn houses!” She laughs quite loudly at this.

You kinda wish she hadn’t told you that.

“Of course, Ms. Fathoms. I’m very ready to get back to my normal life.” You say

“Just a few hours more darling!” Ms. Fathoms says then hangs up.

The time goes by quickly. You’re very excited but Nikita seems a little down.

“I’ve just enjoyed spending time with a person who treats me like a person.” Nikita admits.

>Give her your personal number
>Don’t give her your personal number

Then the cars show up and so does your bike. Nikita pulls you into a hug that you’re sure is going to be the death of you before she leaves. Waving goodbye she hops in a car and you get on your sweet, sweet baby. It’s about damn time.

>Mission Complete!
>7 FUNDS added
>Underground Intel FAME gained

>Call Aleksandra Red, you owe her dinner with her father
>Call Mistletoe, you haven’t seen him since Hells Run
>Call Don, you promised to check in on him more
>Go home (Motorcycle upgrade shopping)
>Write in

>>4941044
>>Give her your personal number
>Call Aleksandra Red, you owe her dinner with her father

>>4941044
>Give her your personal number
>Call Aleksandra Red, you owe her dinner with her father


>Underground Intel FAME gained
Mind clarifying this one, QM? This our undercover alias' rep, separate from our day life one?

>>4941101

You've become famous enough that people are trying to dig up info on you. Underground Intel FAME rising means that someone is actively hunting for info about you. Maybe there's a way for you to manipulate what info is put out there?

This will also unfortunately be my one and only update for the day. I'll be back tomorrow night for an update or two!

>>4941122
It has come to my attention that we have yet to meet or look out for a tech guru support to help us. We should really get on that so we have someone that can support our brain chip and do cyberspace stuff for us.

If not someone on the grey market or underworld, perhaps the Twins or Ms. Fathoms has a personal recommendation.

>>4941046
>>4941101
>>4941127

Remembering that Aleksandra asked you to come to dinner some time with her father you send her a call. Which she almost immediately picks up.

“Melanie!” She uses your real name. “I’ve been trying to get a hold of you for weeks! Where have you been? Are you okay? Do you need any help? What can I do?”

Wilting under her deluge of questions you try to calm her down.

“I’ve been fine Aleksandra, just work has kept me busy and away from contacting anyone really.” You say.

“Well I still think you could have called me and reassured me that you were okay!” She says.

You can hear her pout.

“I’ll try next time.” You say.

She gives a little cute sound that you think might be her version of a snort.

“You’d better! Now, I asked you to have dinner with my father a while ago. Are you ready to meet him?” She asks.

“I am, that’s one of the reasons I was calling.” You say.

“Good! He’s been dying to meet you after you saved my life and now that you’ve won Hells Run he’s absolutely demanded it.” She says.

Aleksandra then gives you quite a few details about the place and when to arrive. It’s quite an upscale joint so you’ll have to wear your best. You still might have to go shopping honestly. You’re not sure if showing up in your Sutherlunds Industries suit would be in good taste to meet with the CEO of Red Inc. Something to think about.

Saying your goodbyes you hang up. A thought crosses your mind as you sit on your bike in traffic. You need a tech head. Someone who can help you with your implants and augments. Someone who’s in touch with elements of the job that you just don’t have experience with. You’re a gear head for sure, but holo data? You’re an amatuer at best. If even that. Maybe it’s time to put out some feelers for tech help. You could ask Ms. Fathoms, but you’re sure that whoever she suggests would also be reporting to her. So if you don’t mind that then she’s an option. You could ask Aleksandra, but she might have the same problem as Ms. Fathoms. Don has been in your world before, maybe he has old contacts. Or you could try to find someone yourself. Throw yourself at the mercy of the net and hope you find someone. So many options to pick from.

>Call Mistletoe, you haven’t seen him since Hells Run
>Call Don, you promised to check in on him more
>Go home (Motorcycle upgrade shopping)
>Time skip to dinner with Aleksandra
>Search for a Tech Head (Who are you asking for help?)
>Write in

>>4942189
>>Call Don, you promised to check in on him more

>>4942189
>>Call Don, you promised to check in on him more
>>Then go shopping for clothes for the dinner and parts for bike

>>4942189
>>Call Don, you promised to check in on him more

Sorry about no update today anons! Going to try and update tomorrow which is Tuesday but I have a doctors appointment in the morning and work the night. So if you don't hear from me then expect an update Wednesday!

>>4942189
>>Call Don, you promised to check in on him more

Hey anons! Got called in early to work but I'll have an update late tonight or extremely early tomorrow morning!

>>4942199
>>4942270
>>4943121
>>4943520

Riding around without a destination is nice, but you’ve been out for 3 weeks and probably should get some things done. Don has been pretty vulnerable with you lately. You think you should check in with him. Kicking your bike into the next gear you tear down the roads towards the Angry Dragon.

Getting there you find a quick place to park. It’s a pretty busy night. Seeing Don get business is always a great thing. You remember nights where it was pretty much just you, Aki, and Don playing around in an empty bar. Walking in you’re greeted by several people who all want a picture and an autograph from the Hells Run winner. It’s annoying but you give them what they want so they’ll leave you alone.

Don is manning the bar and is hard at work, he notices you and waves. It takes some time but he plants a cold Ancharists Riot in front of you.

“Give me a few, don’t got a lot of time right now. You’re gonna tell me where you disappeared to for 3 weeks without telling me.” Don says.

“For sure Don.” You say.

The night goes on and you get a few more fans. But after a while the bar empties out leaving you and Don alone. He starts cleaning up and you help out. It’s an hour of hard work but soon the place is clean and set up for tomorrow. Sitting back at the bar Don sits next to you. You spend another hour filling him in on everything that happened. He pours you a drink and himself one after you tell him about Club Neon.

“Shit Mel, that was all over the news! Still is! They got you walking around right now?” Don says.

“I’m just glad to be out and about and not cooped up anymore. It was starting to get to me.” You say.

“Better cooped up then dead Mel.” Don retorts.

You can’t argue that so you just take a drink then continue on with the story. He’s just as weirded out by Nikita as you were.

“Hell I don’t like the thought of being anywhere near that Nikita. Especially being locked up with her for 3 weeks.” Don says.

“Wasn’t my first choice of vacation Don.” You say.

He laughs and pours another drink. You finish the story and he’s quiet for a moment.

“Well, you’re alive and any job you walk away from is a good one. Still, hard to believe you were involved in that scene at Club Neon.” Don says.

“Yeah well, it’s all over now. What about you Don? You holding up?” You ask.

“Yeah I’m doing well kid. Just these old bones acting up. Getting harder to man the bar all by myself. Gonna have to hire a bartender soon enough.” Don says.

Don then laughs and gets up. Saying his goodbyes he leaves and tells you to lock up behind you. You leave and hop back on your bike. Time to get moving.

I'll have another update with choices coming out sometime tomorrow or Friday!

Up next is a little shopping for the big dinner coming up. You need something that will fit in at a very nice restaurant but still show that you’re you. Ugh you hate shopping, unless it’s for your bike. Then it’s drooling over everything you can’t afford. Checking some shopping holos you spot some items that might be worth it.

>A sleek black dress -2 FUNDS
>A black suit -2 FUNDS
>Just use your Sutherlund Industries suit
>Write in

Then you shrug, why not also look at some bike upgrades?

>SPEED Upgrade -6 FUNDS
>MANEUVERS upgrade -3 FUNDS
>Jump Jets (allows one small jump over an obstacle per scene) -5 FUNDS
>Write in (always happy to see what anon wants to add to their bike!)

You have 8 FUNDS available

>>4947855
>>A black suit -2 FUNDS
>MANEUVERS upgrade -3 FUNDS

>>4947855
We just wore our normal clothes and a jacket when we took her clubbing, right? A nice suit jacket could work well then, maybe.
>>A black suit -2 FUNDS

Bike Upgrades:
Jumpjets are calling to me, but
>MANEUVERS
seems the best choice, to get our stats more inline.

>Write in (always happy to see what anon wants to add to their bike!)
Cursory look, what kind of bike options are available out on the market right now? Or maybe check out our bike provider, since we did just win another big race on one of their bikes. See if they can hook us up with another new or high end model.
Not likely something we can afford right now, but would be nice to have a more incognito bike that isn't the crumby ones Sutherlund are providing.

>>4947963
>>4948141

The black suit sounds like a good fit for you so you order it. The holo takes your measurements so that it comes fitted. While you’re online you decide to pick up that MANEUVERS upgrade as well. You’re quickly running out of ways to upgrade your bike. Soon it’ll have to be replacing parts you’ve already upgraded and that isn’t going to be cheap.

-5 FUNDS you now have 3 FUNDS
Your Heavy Bike stats are now 6 SPEED and 5 MANEUVERS
You now have a Black Suit that is good for fancy occasions. It isn’t bulletproof though.

Taking a minute to relax you flop onto your couch. It’s nice to be able to do that on your own couch and not a safehouse's shitty couch. You take a deep breath and just let yourself slow down. It hasn’t been a busy 3 weeks but it definitely was stressful. Still there are always things to do, people to see. You’ll have to check out if Charlemagne Motors has any other bike models for sale. Especially as you won Hells Run on one of their bikes. Getting up you go to take a quick shower. It’s incredibly surprising for you when you see a man standing in the hallway.

“Who the fuck are you!” You shout at him.

He turns around and you recognize him. He’s holding himself together, guts leaking between fingers. He takes one step towards you and the top half of his body slides off his legs and he slumps across the floor. It’s that man who was too close to Nikita when she left the club. You wonder why she killed him. Was it part of the mission? Or was it just for fun? Either way, you close your eyes and when you open them again the dead mans gone. Thank god, you still need to shower.

Hopping in and out real quick you get yourself clean and decide to call up Charlemagne Motors.

“Hello Radiant! We gotta say that we absolutely loved the race. Especially what you’ve done to our bike! Superb modifications!” The man who answers is clearly excited to be talking to you.

“Thank you. I’ve worked hard on my beauty and it was a pleasure to work on a machine that Charlemagne Motors created.” You say.

“Of course! Why don’t you come down sometime and we can show you some other things we have. New models and other upgrades or modifications, all the fun stuff.” He says.

“Sounds like a good time, I’ll schedule an appointment when I can.” You say.

>>4949947

You both give your goodbyes and hangup. When you do you notice you’ve received a message while you were on the holo. It’s completely anonymous, no sender name attached. Curiosity gets the better of you and you open it. It’s a picture of you sliding the PACKAGE into the dropoff box of that tenant house. The PACKAGE turned out to be a bomb. You never did look up the casualties from that incident. But that’s not all, there’s another video of you sitting on a bike with a blood soaked Nikita. It’s not a clear shot of your face since you wore your helmet at all times during that mission but they very clearly know it was you.

“The ghosts of our pasts sow the seeds for our future.” A distorted voice rings out.

You quickly delete the message. Your heart is hammering in your chest faster than your bike could ever go. These fucking people again! You haven't heard from them since signing on with Sutherlunds Industries. You had hoped that had scared them off. Maybe it’s time to bring Ms. Fathoms up to speed.

Today has not been a good day.

>Call Mistletoe, you haven’t seen him since Hells Run
>Time skip to dinner with Aleksandra
>Search for a Tech Head (Who are you asking for help?)
>Write in

>>4949949
>Search for a Tech Head (Don)
>Time skip to dinner with Aleksandra

>>4949984
>>Search for a Tech Head (Don)
>>Time skip to dinner with Aleksandra

Will have this update out either late tonight or tomorrow. All depends on how tired I am after work today. Sorry for the slow updates anons!

Giving Don a quick call you ask if he knows a Tech Head. Really anyone who can help you navigate the tech you’re starting to accumulate and incorporate into your body. He says he knows a few people and he’ll get in touch with you once he talks to them. You both give your goodbyes and then you relax for the rest of the day. After all, it's not every night you get to have dinner with the CEO of a megacorp and his daughter that you have been spending time with.

Waking to a call from Aleksandra, she invites you over to have her stylists help you both get ready. Grabbing your newly acquired suit you head on over. Taking a little bit of a wider route to just enjoy the night air. Getting there and going through security, you’re again immediately assaulted by several immaculate stylists who fuss over you.

“Oh honey what have you been doing to your hair?!” One says.

“Just look at her nails!” Another one complains.

“It’s okay, I like a challenge.” This they all agree on.

Aleksandra gives you a small sympathetic smile. Then immediately turns a bright red as you’re almost stripped bare by several of the stylists. She makes a small noise and focuses on her own helpers who pretend not to notice. You spend the next hour being prodded and scrubbed up to a degree you’ve never been to before. They argue over what kind of dress to put you in and you put a stop to it by pulling out the black suit you bought. They all sigh at it but don’t argue with you about it. Finally after what feels like an eternity you’re deemed suitable to meet with Mr. Red. You’ve gotta admit, you’ve never looked so damn good. Dressed in your sleek black suit you’re a striking beauty. You’re far more used to the messed up hair and streaks of motor oil on your arms and face than this corporate look.

“No challenge is too great for us!” The stylists cheer.

Fuckers.

Aleksandra comes out of her room dressed in an elegant dress. It’s a stunning crimson and leaves little to the imagination. She spreads her arms and gives a twirl.

“How do I look?” She asks.

You’re quiet for a beat too long, she starts to pout.

“What?” She says.

“You are absolutely stunning Aleksandra Red.” You say.

Her blush almost matches the shade of her dress.

“Well, you’re incredibly handsome Melanie Dread.” She says.

You both smile at each other, enjoying each other's company.

“Alright, are you ready to meet my father?” She asks.

“As ready as one can be.” You say.

>>4955034

She nods and leads you down to the garage where you hop into an armored car. It’s nice being driven around every once in a while but you probably could never get used to it. Plus it’s just not as enjoyable as driving yourself. Especially in a car and not a motorcycle. It takes about half an hour to get where you’re going. It’s a pleasant drive and you get to spend it chatting with Aleksandra. Finally arriving you see that it’s a mega building. But one that even you’ve heard of. Titan. It’s the largest megabuilding in New Light. Not the first but certainly around since before the city emerged into what it is today.

Aleksandra cranes her head back to look up at the megastructure. It’s an incredible sight, all light up in neon and advertisements from several different megacorps. You even see one from Red Inc. flash by. Followed by an Sutherlund Industries ad. The top disappears into the ever persistent cloud coverage of New Light.

“The restaurants at the top.” Aleksandra says. “Above the clouds. Have you ever seen the sky, Melanie?”

You have to think about it. You’ve been a little outside of the city into the outskirts but never far enough to get away from the smog of the city. If you can even find a place like that on Earth any more.

“No.” You eventually say.

Aleksandra reaches out and grabs your hand. Giving you a shining smile that must have cost millions she pulls you just a little closer and takes the lead.

“You’ll see it tonight.” She says.

Allowing yourself to be led by the younger woman, you take the time to enjoy the sights. Though it would be a little nicer if you weren’t having a thousand pictures taken of you by every bystander around you. Security keeps them at a safe distance but can’t really stop them from taking vids and pics. Eventually getting in the elevator it takes several minutes to reach the top. All of which Aleksandra never lets go of your hand even if she’s constantly shifting and trying to touch up her dress.

“Relax, you’re a shining sun Aleksandra.” You say.

She just looks over and smiles, but continues to fiddle with her dress. Must be nerves.

Getting to the top of the building you step out into a clear see through dome. The fanciest restaurant you’ve ever seen even on the holos sprawls out before you. All under the night sky. You stop and stare at the stars. You’ve heard of them before, seen pictures. But to see them with your own eyes is something else. It really makes you realise just how far you’ve come from scavenging food out of garbage cans for Aki and yourself.

Aleksandra gives your hand a little tug and you’re brought back into the present. The concierge gives you a smug look.

“First time at Phoebe?” He asks.

>>4955036

“We’re here to meet my father.” Aleksandra says rather curtly.

“Of course madam, I understand that Mr. Red is in our VIP room and is waiting for the both of you. If you would both follow me.” He says.

He leads the way through the dining room where you get several looks from the patrons. You get more than several when they realise you’re headed towards the VIP room. Moving through the restaurant is an experience. Not only are the decorations a throwback to a golden age of some historical nation, which you ask Aleksandra about.

“The Greeks.” She whispers through her teeth. Then gives your hand a squeeze. No more questions.

But they also have several striking holos of what you assume are greek gods wandering around between tables. As well as several statues under heavy security glass. You’d bet money those are originals.

Walking into the VIP room is even more breathtaking. Somehow they’ve rendered a visual through the smog of New Light. You have a birds eye view of the entire city lit up in it’s neon beauty. Looking down upon the city with the night sky above. You feel like a god. No wonder corporate fuck heads act like they do if they get a taste of this.

You’re once again brought back into the present by Aleksandra.

“Hello father.” She says.

Standing at the only table in the room is a man. Dressed in a black suit with red accents that you’re sure cost more than 100 times what you paid for yours is Constantine Red. The CEO of Red Inc. You’d be lying if you said you weren’t nervous. He stands a good head and shoulders above you with incredibly wide shoulders. A face carved out of mountains and glacier blue eyes watch you as you cross the room with Aleksandra. You feel like the mouse that knows death is stalking from above.

“Daughter.” He finally states as you stop across the table from him.

He gives you a look up and down.

“You must be Radiant. Melanie Dread. The woman who put my daughter in the cross hairs of the Blood Skulls. Then got her away from them in relatively one piece. The woman who won Snake Way and Hells Run. But most importantly, the woman who my daughter is infatuated with.” His voice comes out in a steady bass filled rhythm.

>”It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
>”In my defence, you hired me to escort her.”
>”Yes.”
>Write in

Sorry this took a while, work was a little more tiring than usual. Plus some side hobbies I just took up have taken quite a bit of my time.

>>4955037
>”Yes.”
>”It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

>>4955037
>”Yes.”
>”It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

>>4955037
>>”It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

>>4955037
>>”It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

>>4955037
>>"Yes."
>>”It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
The scenery painting for this restaurant was great, QM.

>>4956013
Thanks! I'm trying to actually describe things more. I look back and it's all kind of barren so I'm trying to work on that.

>>4955077
>>4955184
>>4955354
>>4955395
>>4956013

His voice reverberates through the room as you take a second to take in what he said. You’d be lying if you said you weren’t nervous. He simply stated facts and yet he’s got you a little on edge already. Well, you’re no good at being anyone but yourself.

“Yes.” You say.

The word echoes through the room. Not as powerfully as Mr. Red’s but still with a strength all its own. You hear Aleksandra take a sharp little breath and Mr. Red remains as still as the Earth.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” You say.

Aleksandra finally releases her breath. Mr. Red gives you another look up and down. Finally nodding, he waves his hand and you almost jump when waiters appear to pull out your seats. You were so focused on this single man that you ignored the background security and even the staff. You suppose you have to command that amount of attention when you run a megacorp. Then again, even without being armed he’s probably the most dangerous person in the room. You don’t get to that position without bathing in blood. Even if you're not the one pulling the trigger. You wonder how many orders like that Mr. Red has given.

“The pleasure is mine.” He says.

Taking your seats at the circular table, you and Aleksandra sit fairly close together while Mr. Red sits on the opposite side alone. You do notice there’s an empty seat next time him but decide it’s probably best to not bring it up.

“A Runner with a meteoric rise. Coming from nothing, less than nothing. You were abandoned and left to survive. Scavenging trash and living off scraps I wouldn’t feed my own dogs. Stop me if I’m wrong, though I doubt I am. I had an entire intelligence department of Red Inc. dedicated to you for a day. We got what I wanted in a few minutes. But I wanted to be sure.” He says.

Not waiting for a reply he goes on to detail the majority of your life. Meeting Aki and how you were both raised by Don. Your first date, your first fight, your first street race. It makes you cold just how much he knows. Aleksandra is listening with rapt attention, you get the feeling Mr. Red doesn’t share much with her. She goes stiff a few times in the story and her breathing changes every now and then but she never looks at you. Her gaze fixed firmly on her father.

Mr. Red continues on detailing things you’ve never told anyone. Jobs you wish you had never taken. People you only met in passing. He can even name the poster of the Charlemagne Motorcycle’s bike that was on your bedroom wall. Still is, in fact. You sit and listen to your own story. When he finishes he sits back and stares at you. Again you are swallowed in his gaze. Nothing else matters beyond responding to him.

“Yes. You have the right Radiant.” You say.

“Good to know.” He responds.

>>4958314

The next few minutes are spent in silence as the staff puts the table together in front of you. None of you are given a menu. You decide like everything in this room right now, it was decided by Mr. Red. While you continue waiting, one member of the security detail comes up with a small holo device. He places it in the chair to Mr. Red’s left and turns it on before leaving. One of the most detailed holos you have ever seen blinks on. It is almost an identical twin of Aleksandra, just a few years older.

“Mother.” Aleksandra says.

“Daughter.” Mrs. Red says. “I’m afraid I couldn’t come in person to meet your… Runner friend.” She almost sneers at the end.

“I understand. Business is important.” Aleksandra says back.

Well, this is fun.

“Oh Aleksandra, if only you truly understood that. You wouldn’t be slumming it with this street rat.” Mrs. Red retorts.

Very fun.

“Miranda.” Mr. Red snaps. “Radiant is our guest.”

Mrs. Red makes a small noise of disgust but does give you a quick apology. The family dynamics of a megacorp family. You wonder if you were better off a street rat.

“Radiant. I know your past. But what I don’t know are your plans. What exactly are you doing? Running from one race to the next, signing on with a megacorporation. What are your goals? If you even have any.” Mr. Red asks.

His question strikes home. What are you doing? What are your goals? You have ambition for sure, but where’s the finish line?

>Racing
>Sutherlund Industries (Jobs)
>Just surviving
>Write In

This is a serious question! I'll leave this up for a a little while for you all to discuss if you want to. It's kind of a way for me to set a solid ending point for the quest. Not that we're going to end anytime soon but it's always better to work towards a goal!

>>4958318
>>Just surviving
>Racing

Got to be these honestly, Sutherlund only really strikes me as the 'devil-I-know' kinda thing since it helps keep us alive, and the only thing worth doing while alive is racing.That and cyber-jazz.

Aleksandra is also worth doing but probably not a good idea to mention that.

>>4958318
>Just surviving
I mean, yeah, we're a fan of racing, but that's mostly more of a hobby like cyber-jazz (though it is very important). We want to go up in the world, I assume, but otherwise just surviving seems like the right answer.

>>4958318
>Just surviving

>>4958318
>Just surviving
Yeah, ultimate goal has been to just to see the end of the day. That's probably how we've lived like 90% of our life, other than silly dreams as a kid, we probably haven't had much chance to think of any long term plans if any.
>Racing
I'd argue it is a bit more than a hobby, it's practically a second job and one of our passions. The thrill of SPEED and skill.

>>4958318
>>Racing

>>4958318
>Racing

Idk how many of you anons like bike racing IRL, I never thought I'd be too interested, but I just watched the Austrian MotoGP. Would highly recommend checking it out, it's a pretty crazy race. If nothing else, watch the last 4 laps video to see how much back and forth goes down.

Alrighty! Think I've left it up long enough! I'll have an update this friday or saturday! Sorry it's going to be a minute, just some things taking more time than I expected

>>4958794
>>4958933
>>4958941
>>4959732
>>4959848
>>4960185


“I’ve been surviving my entire life and I’ll keep doing that. At any cost. That being said, I’ve always dreamed of being in the races. Being number 1 in the entire world of SPEED.” You say

Mr. Red is an immovable stone. You can’t get a read on him as he takes in what you said.

“I see.” He finally says.

“Just like a rat, only focused on survival.” Mrs. Red says.

Mr Red shoots her another look but this time she doesn’t apologize. Keeping her head high she looks down her nose at you. Aleksandra looks between you and her father, ignoring her mother.

“Melanie reminds me of you father. Willing to do what needs to be done. Focused on being the best in her field.” Aleksandra chimes in.

You’re not entirely sure how to feel about that. Mr. Red studies you for a moment, looking at you then Aleksandra. He leans back in his chair and maintains his silence. The room is quiet for a moment as the staff brings in the food. Real meats and fruits grace the table. Even real cheese, something you’ve only seen in holos. Your mouth waters as more and more delectables pile onto the table. Still, you maintain control and manage to keep your eyes on Mr. and Mrs. Red.

“Racing. A noble sport. You’ve shown that you’re skilled in the art. How far do you truly believe you can go?” Mr. Red breaks the silence as the staff begins to load your plates.

“All the way.” You say.

Mr. Red’s face finally changes to one of approval. He nods at you.

“Confidence is important, hunger for the top comes with it. But it can also kill when you least expect it.” He says.

You nod back at him. Then the feast begins as Mr. Red takes the first bite. Soon you’re tasting things that you never even knew existed. This is the first time you’ve ever heard of something called a fish. You’re not too sure about it. But you eat it all the same. You do notice that the portions leave something to be desired. Though the table is loaded with more food. Must be several courses then.

“Radiant. Melanie Dread. I have a final question for you. What are your plans with my daughter?” Mr. Red says in between courses.

Suddenly your appetite is gone. Your mouth is dry. You can feel the sweat begin to form. You’ve never been in this situation before. Mostly random flings that only lasted a month at most, never having to meet anyone in their life. Much less their parents. Even then, they’ve never been part of a megacorp family. Lots of firsts tonight. Everyone in the room is looking at you now. Mr. Red with his impenetrable face. Mrs. Red in disgust and anger. Even Aleksandra, her face a mixture of curiosity, hope, and fear.

>”I plan on continuing to see her.” (Aleksandra locked in as romance)
>”I don’t plan on seeing her romantically, only as a friend.” (Aleksandra is only a friend)
>Write in

>>4966416
>>”I don’t plan on seeing her romantically, only as a friend.” (Aleksandra is only a friend)

>>4966416
>”I plan on continuing to see her.” (Aleksandra locked in as romance)
She hawt

>>4966416
>”I don’t plan on seeing her romantically, only as a friend.” (Aleksandra is only a friend)
ALAAAAAAARM /u/ boat sighted

>>4966416
Hmmm. To /u/boat or not to /u/boat.

It definitely hurts to friendzone someone that's as infatuated as Alek is. And the interactions and influences between them have been really good for both parties. Melanie has gotten Aleksandra out of her shell and made her a lot more confident, at least based on the interactions we've seen. She's no where near as shy or nervous as she was when we first met her. And Alek is probably Melanie's closest and most important emotional anchor and support besides Don. That's more precious than a lot of things in the world. And admittedly she is a cute.

I suppose I'll balance the scales so someone else can make the final call.
>”I plan on continuing to see her.” (Aleksandra locked in as romance)

>>4966416
>”I don’t plan on seeing her romantically, only as a friend.” (Aleksandra is only a friend)

>>4966416
>>”I plan on continuing to see her.” (Aleksandra locked in as romance)

>>4966416
>”I plan on continuing to see her.” (Aleksandra locked in as romance)

>>4966416
>>”I plan on continuing to see her.” (Aleksandra locked in as romance)

Alrighty! Been about 2 days or so. Going to count up the votes and have an update up sometime Tuesday!

>>4966438
>>4966506
>>4966564
3 for sinking the /u/boat

>>4966441
>>4966535
>>4967099
>>4967137
>>4967209
5 for hopping onboard!

Looks like we'll be joining our /u/boat comrades!

>>4966438
>>4966441
>>4966506
>>4966535
>>4966564
>>4967099
>>4967137
>>4967209

You take a moment to collect yourself. To think about what you truly want from Aleksandra. You think back to the first time you met her. She was just a job to you, a job that went horribly wrong and ended with you bleeding out on a warehouse floor. After that you kept in touch and she’s always been there to talk and support you. You took her on a few rides and grew closer as friends. But is friendship all you want? You know that she’s been infatuated with you ever since you “saved” her from the Blood Skull ganger. But is that enough to build a relationship? Maybe. Either way, you come to the truth that you want to spend more time with Aleksandra and not just as a friend.

For the first time during the dinner you turn away from Mr. Red to look at Aleksandra. She’s been looking at you with a mixture of emotions. You reach out and take her hand in yours and look at her in her hazel-grey eyes.

“I like you Aleksandra, I enjoy spending time with you and I want to spend more time with you. But…” You trail off.

Aleksandra’s breathing is completely under control, but her eyes give her away. Wide eyed and fearful.

“I’d like to spend more time with you as more than friends. We’ve helped each other grow as people and I’d like to see us continue to grow. Together.” You finish.

Aleksandra takes a few deep breaths and her eyes are locked firmly on yours filled with joy. She smiles and intertwines her fingers with yours. Then looks across the table at her father. Mr. Red is as always unreadable.

“I see.” He says. “Though you have to understand that’s a disappointment. You hold absolutely no value. Marriage gains us nothing and you everything. Not to mention your ties with Sutherlunds Industries further complicates this.”

Mr. Red sighs and leans back in his chair.

“That’s saved you tonight. If it weren’t for your ties to Sutherlunds and the reprisal I’d face from them. You’d be dead.” He says.

>>4970317

It’s only now you look around at the security. All of them are armed to the teeth. Mr. Red’s words echo through the large room. Cold and uncaring, stated matter of factly. If it wasn’t for Sutherlunds Industries you’d be a red stain on the ground outside of Titan. Your heart is beating rapidly, just as fast as when Rose put two bullets into your helmet. Just as fast as when you were being choked out by that gigantic Blood Skull ganger. You’ve escaped death yet again.

“Father!” Aleksandra’s composure finally breaks as she yells across the table. “How dare you! You can’t control who I care about and love!”

“Be quiet child! You’re father can do as he pleases, you’ll understand the importance of our business when you’re older. I hope…” Mrs. Red says.

Mrs. Red doesn’t look happy. It seems like she really wanted to have you flatlined tonight. Mr. Red locks eyes with you.

“It’s nothing personal Radiant. You seem like quite the strong woman. A good head on your shoulders, skilled in her pursuits. But the corporate world isn’t something you crawl up into off the street. It takes a different set of survival skills.” He says. “Though if you’re willing to learn. We might be able to come to an agreement. We’d have to deal with your Sutherlunds Industries contract first though. I will not allow Sutherlunds to have any kind of hold over my family.”

Well there’s something to think about. You could potentially be groomed for corporate leadership by Mr. Red. You wonder what the consequences would be if you turn down his offer.

“Constantine, you can’t be serious! She’s filth! Polluting our daughter! And you want to offer her a fucking scholorship!?” Mrs. Red explodes causing her holo to flicker.

“I’ll do as I please, Miranda.” Mr. Red says calmly.

Mrs. Red throws her hands up and storms out of her holos range leaving an empty seat at the table. Now it’s just the three of you. Mr. Red quietly studies you as if he didn’t just tell you he would have you killed if he could. Aleksandra is holding your hand in a vice-like grip. You suppose it’s time to say something.

>Explore his offer
>Decline him outright
>Excuse yourself from dinner and just leave
>Write in

>>4970321
>>Decline him outright

>>4970321
>>Explore his offer

Escaping Sutherland? Yes please.

>>4970321
>Explore his offer
To be honest, he'd be a lot better of a boss than the Sutherlands would be. And he has a personal interest in our well-being since his daughter likes us as well. No reason not to side with him,

>>4970321
>Decline him outright
I'd prefer running but that might get us insta killed

>>4970321
>>Explore his offer
>But make it clear that we can't just bail on Sutherlund at his beck and call, out of both personal reasons and professional integrity. It'll have to be something we'll consider in the near future. Perhaps after the final of the three major races of the city.
First off, that contract we have with Sutherlund is quite literally our life line, and throwing that away in front of him would be giving him full authority to shoot us dead if he wanted. Best for us to sign the deal without a literal gun pointed to our head.

Second, I'm not quite ready to leave Sutherlund yet. Yes, they are assholes, and yes they are morally bankrupt. But we have the option to buy out of our contract whenever we wish, and winning a high place in the final race might give us enough cash to do so, not to mention any other jobs we sign onto until that point. I'd like to leave on "good" terms with them by fulfilling our contract, rather than fully pissing them off by bailing to another mega corp that voids our contract for us.
Right now they are paying us bank, and more importantly, the reason we signed on with them in the first place. Protection from that potential blackmailer. I want that little aside dealt with before we leave Sutherlund. Either by getting Ms. Fathoms and her doom squad to eliminate them for us, or by having their protection while our/Don's techhead figures out who's behind it and we take care of it ourselves. Speaking of, that's something we should bring up to Ms. Fathoms the next time we meet up with her, that not only has this person resurfaced, but they managed to figure out who we were and who was behind the attack at the club, a risk for both parties.

Otherwise, sounds like a pretty good deal. Move up in the world, on scholarship at that. If not to be a CEO, at least a head enforcer or something to that effect. And opens up quite a few paths for us after we compete (and win) in the final race.

>“I’ll do as I please, Miranda.” Mr. Red says calmly.
BTFO, Miranda Red.

>>4970321
>>Explore his offer

>>4970321
>Decline him outright

Alrighty! I'll have an update friday or saturday. This thread is reaching page 10 so I'll probably archive it soon

>>4970334
>>4970496
>>4970527
>>4970620
>>4970724
>>4971300
>>4971647

You think about declining his offer right off the bat. But something tells you that would be a dangerous idea. Besides, it's always good to hear someone out when their plan involves you.

“What would I be learning?” You ask.

“Many things. You’d actually go to school, become an educated individual. You would learn alongside Aleksandra about how to run Red Inc. to become her confidant. Aleksandra will always be my heir, you would never become CEO. We would also train you in security matters, perhaps one day you could become head of security. But most of all, we would teach you how to navigate the political sphere of megacorporations.” Mr. Red answers.

Woah. That’s quite an offer. More than you would have ever thought you would come into in your life. It’s something to consider for sure.

“What about my connection to Sutherlund Industries?” You ask.

“We’d buy out your contract. Red Inc. would effectively employ you as one of our own Runners.” He says.

That’s not a bad deal either. Though you wonder how Ms. Fathoms would take it. You shiver at the thought of Nikita paying you a visit in the dead of the night.

“May I have time to think about this offer? Perhaps after the final race, Beasts Rage.” You say.

“Of course, take your time. There is a limit to my patience however. Don’t keep me waiting forever.” He says.

Well that’s a good thing at least. Maybe once you find a tech head and work out this blackmailing thing or whatever the fuck it is with Sutherlund Industries you can take Mr. Red up on his offer.

>>4975528

“I’ll think about your offer Mr. Red. Thank you for extending it.” You try to sound as professional as you can.

“Of course. Just know that I’m doing this for my daughter. Don’t ever harm her. In any way.” He states.

Chills once again crawl up and down your spine. You’ve intertwined yourself into a megacorp family. Not many people get away from that in one piece. The dinner continues on with very little talk and finally finishes with an amazing range of desserts made with real ingredients. There is at least one upside to this situation: you laugh to yourself. Dinner is over when Mr. Red stands up. You didn’t realize how tall he was until he towers over you.

“Think about my offer, Radiant. I’ll only give it once.” He says.

Then Mr. Red leaves leaving just you and Aleksandra at the table. Most of the security leaves with him but some stay. A mix of Aleksandra’s security team and her fathers. Aleksandra grabs ahold of your hand with hers and gives it a squeeze.

“Thank you for being here with me. My parents are frightening people. Even to me.” She says.

You squeeze her hand back.

“Of course, I’ll be there for you anytime you need me. And yes, they are very frightening.” You say.

Aleksandra giggles at this and takes a sip of her wine that you're sure costs more than everything you own. A blush develops along her cheeks and you can’t help but smile at her. You have a lot to think about, but you can put that aside and enjoy this moment.


>Time Skip to Don
>Time Skip to Ms. Fathoms
>Write In

I will probably archive this thread and start a new one once we get some votes. But this has been a blast! Sorry about only posting every few days but I started a new hobby and it's eaten up my time. I'd love to hear all of your thoughts about the thread! Any hopes or fears? Tell me what you're thinking!

>>4975530
>>Time Skip to Don

>>4975530
>>Time Skip to Don

>>4975540

Honestly, it's as great as I remember. Just hope we don't die a horrible death as is typical of low level smucks in cyberpunk.

>>4975530
>>Time Skip to Don
>Check out the bike shop for a new bike/upgrades.
Think the heavy one should stay our racing bike, it's got a lot of stuff already built into it, and it's a mean mother. Might start costing more to upgrade, but it's still got the most upgrade slots out of any bike so it's best suited for it.
Unless a new bike by them is just ridiculous and blows the other out of the water, a potential new bike should be our shadow running one.

>>4975540
It's been a blast, OP. I don't mind the update every few days schedule, as long as it stays consistent and you don't just fall off the face of the earth again without letting us know first.
Excited to see the other doom squad Kim, Nikita and the like again. Fear that just as much. Can't wait to see our next couple jobs and how we will get through those barely alive.

And sorry for not draw fagging, got caught up drawing bikes for something else and it hurt my head. WIll see if I can get something out either before this thread falls off the board or at the start of the new one.

>>4975530
>>Time Skip to Don

>>4976241
>>4976326

Thanks anons! It's been fun diving back into Melanie Dread and her cyberpunk adventures. I promise if I have to stop I'll let you all know. Hopefully that doesn't happen though.

Don't worry about the draw fagging my friend! It's an honor whenever you do it! I don't want you to do it because you feel like you have to.

Any way, expect a Time Skip to Don on a new thread sometime Wednesday or Thursday!