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Topic: Star Trek: Discovery
Subject: Off Duty
Stadate: 2366.10.22
USS Discovery, Security – 1818
“Look at this,” Kel sighed and pushed the PADD across the table towards his wife. Sherry glanced at the display while continuing to feed their daughter, a distracted look on her beautiful face.
“What am I looking at?”
“That’s the pattern left by the terrorist activity in the region; at least as far as Star Fleet Intel is concerned, though I’d be willing to wager the four additional marks on that map are also cell activities.”
“Did you put those in?”
“Ya,” Kelsey retrieved the thin device and stared at the flashing diamonds on the starfield that indicated various positions throughout the system. “I read some news relays and determined the association.”
“Something that Star Fleet overlooked?” There was a slight teasing tone to Sherry’s voice.
“Why not?”
“Because the great Kelsey Gavison isn’t the only one who knows his job.” Sherry winced as Kaila bit down particularly hard. “Kel, you’ve been over this thing twice since you came off shift. What more are you going to learn?”
“Look,” Kelsey turned the PADD around while he pulled up another layer to the screen. This displayed a green line across the display that ended at Aldor V. “That’s our trajectory—our plotted path. The Discovery is going to pass between these two points here, another two there, and the most recent activity has been here, here, and here; all places right around our destination.”
“Are those the dates of the events?” Sherry’s eyes had darted to the side of the screen where dates were marked that corresponded with a numerical assignment of the map point icons.
“Yes.”
“They progress towards Aldor V.”
Kelsey nodded grimly as her lips thinned and she clutched Kaila closer to her chest.
“These last two are practically on the planet’s doorstep,” she breathed.
“You see now why I can’t just ignore it?” Kelsey stood up and stretched, the PADD still in hand. “The colors indicate different terrorist cells, or groups—I don’t know, they have kind of jumbled together. This one did that thing for the sake of so-and-so’s glory… we hate the Federation… blah, blah, blah.” The XO sighed as he plodded over to the couch and dropped heavily into the cushions.
“God, Sherry. I’ve had to place one of my own officers under watch, and not just for his own safety, but for the whole ship’s! We’ve got a vaccine on board that is actually as deadly a virus for us as the plague that we’re trying to cure, and tomorrow we enter the danger zone.
“I’ve reviewed Lt. Tuvar’s security assignments and know that she’s got that end of things well under control. Our medical staff is more than capable of handling the challenges of their post… but I’m still worried sick. Hell, I’m more worried now than I’ve been before any away mission I’ve ever been on, and I can’t kick the feeling!”
Sherry smiled softly as she picked herself up out of the chair, baby in arm, to place herself against her husband’s side on the couch. “You’re a daddy, Kel. That feeling won’t go away anytime soon.”
Posted on 2006-11-03 at 20:17:03.
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Mature Content
Subject: Return: Jazzer
Meat Location: The Farris Family Inn – Night City – 10:14pm; The Net: Night City Grid.
"Who you want erased, shoot me names and I'll try."
He wanted to get this done quick so he could head for the univeristy system and start digging there...
Null Lock replied quickly, “You done? Ok. Sorry, not success here. Name is Damon Mallory. Record needs to be clean.”
Jazzer quickly began his search again, perusing files, discarding names, until he found a Damon P. Mallory. The file showed a middle-aged man with a comb-over and glasses. Glasses, in this day and age! The police record was another thing. Most crimes weren’t public record, just that which would pose a threat to the public. This man’s was clean so whatever he wanted erased must not have been primetime.
Jazzer informed Null Lock that he had found the file and the rotating icon spun over to his side.
“Hmm… must need go deeper.” Null Lock opened the file in front of him as well. “You try too?” Jazzer gave a nod and dug deeper. The two of them quickly ripped out the guts of the file. The interface made it appear as though they were using a black pen and blotting out the information in a book. Jazzer caught site of a few white collar crimes, but nothing huge. Perhaps this Mallory fellow was looking to clean his record in the hopes of getting a new job. Corporations tended to frown on the idea of hiring someone who stole from them. Whatever the deal, Jazzer was glad that they’d finished. Perhaps things were looking up after all.
The Mogwai stepped back from the geometric shape and tipped his hat in farewell. “Thank you for company, Jazzer,” Null Lock said before spinning away and then vanishing in a clean log out leaving the other netrunner in the middle of a slew of additional icons there on private business. Slipping outside the building he made his way straight towards the college datafortress.
It was a long walk, even for the Net. At the site of a bulldog rushing past his heart skipped a beat, but those programs flew all over the Net and this one wasn’t after him. It was like seeing a police car when driving through the city looking for a good uplink point. You know they aren’t after you, but you also know you’ve been doing things that are against the law so there’s always a chance. The second time it happened as he passed massive WorldSat fortress was a little less disturbing since he was much further away from the run he’d just done. It was the third event that really shook him up however.
Near the digital highway that led into the Combat Zone and the intermittent connections found within its wasteland, Jazzer was passing a coyote in running shoes and a Night City Rangers jersey when three other icons converged on it, two of them rushing along a path that took them right past him. These were cold steel icons of police figures and bore the name NETWATCH across their backs in flashing colors. It took Jazzer a moment to figure out that they weren’t after him, and only when the freezerays and such started flying did he catch his breath and keep on going. Looking over his shoulder he noticed three more icons join in the fight on the coyote’s side, and that brought all sorts of hell swinging past him as more NETWATCH agents rushed in to offer support.
Eventually, Jazzer entered the college facility. It was set up just like the campus. As a matter-of-fact, students of computer science often put their skills to the test adding on, repairing, and generally building the datafortress for the college. This allowed for the student to earn their grade and the school to gain exponentially with each new class. So, Jazzer found himself walking along paved paths with trees and bushes lining it, students casually hanging about with their various icons, and the occasional patrol sysop of AI moving by as a motorized security agent in uniform.
He was entering from what could conceivably be the southeast corner of campus. Directly ahead of him was the massive colonial administration building. The east and west wing protruded south of the main entrance giving it a secluded feeling with a pavement veranda. Icons made their way across the massive stretch of open compound and up the sweeping staircase into and out of the building, but what caught Jazzer’s eye was the appearance of black-garbed security units standing on either side of the entrance and positioned all about the landing—eight of them at least. These icons made no effort to appear casual, but carried with them a militant essence. They had highly polished boots, crisp uniforms, heavy utility belts with a handgun at the hip and a submachine gun in hand held across their chests. Closest to the door there were even two with large mastiffs on leashes, the heavy-headed dogs tiredly watching those who passed inside.
Posted on 2006-11-01 at 19:31:38.
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Cyberpunk 2020
Subject: I had no idea...
...that we had a Klingon amongst us.
BTW - Welcome Vesper as Jazzer everyone.
Posted on 2006-11-01 at 19:16:50.
Edited on 2006-11-01 at 19:45:42 by Bromern Sal
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Topic: Star Trek: Discovery - Q&A
Subject: Um...
I'm caught up in the middle of illustrating a magazine and preparing to illustrate a book... I post as I can, I promise.
Posted on 2006-11-01 at 19:14:26.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off
Subject: Ducks in a Row... Ha ha ha hahahahahaha!
It’s amazing what a series of life threatening situations do for the camaraderie and trust between adventurers. It wasn’t so long ago that Char remembered having first laid eyes on Dapple Moon. He could recall the mistrust he’d placed in the “lad” from the beginning; the lurking feeling that if he turned his back on Da’ Moon, da sun’d stop shinin’ fer ‘im… and now, he crept quietly through the foliage with the street urchin at his back, not the least bit concerned as to whether he’d wind up with a dagger between the third and fourth ribs.
As they drew nearer the raucous interaction between brothers, the ranger still thought it would have been simpler to move up to the copse of trees with one of the spellcasters and put them all to sleep, then deal with them where there was no chance of anyone doing something stupid and winding up hurt. But the plan dealt in subterfuge and so he’d play his part.
Crouching low so that a budding bush covered most of his form, but the sparseness of the upper branches allowed him clear vision of the four would-be bandit’s position Char gave Dapple the signal to hold. Then they waited, watching, until the scuffle began. The ranger remained stock still as the youngest squiggled out from underneath the brother’s watchful eye and vanished into the woods. He also remained still when the brothers finally realized their kin was missing, but a smile played across his face none-the-less. It was only when the four had completely rushed out into the open and were throwing their swords away with haste that he scratched at his scruff, stood, and motioned Dapple to do the same. He saw the wizards and Talas rematerialize and was reluctant to give up their position before he was absolutely positive that he hadn’t read the situation incorrectly. It was only when Arien called out to them that he finally stepped free of the trees, the knight having made the decision that all was clear.
Bow held in hand, the ranger didn’t bother to nock an arrow, instead, he strolled from the trees as nonchalantly as if he were on an evening walk, though his crystal blue eyes continued to scan the area about them despite his casual calm. He was no fool and elaborate ambushes were more than possible; after all, didn’t they just come up with one to deal with four individuals Char had originally deemed unthreatening? Standing some distance from the rough n’ tumble, the ranger stood quietly by, listening and watching the young men’s responses while not letting his guard down.
(OOC: Char’s guard will not drop and he’ll keep an eye out for any possible signs of trouble while the questioning takes place, though he’ll remain close enough to hear what’s being said and offer his opinion if need be.)
Posted on 2006-10-30 at 21:48:39.
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Topic: Star Trek: Discovery
Subject: A new assignment?
Stadate: 2366.10.22
USS Discovery, Security – 1305
Kelsey didn’t have to make the trip. He could very well have summoned the lieutenant to the bridge, the observation lounge… ten forward, and the lieutenant would have come. Kel wasn’t like that though. He only exerted that authority when necessary and right now wasn’t one of those times. Besides, he considered quietly as he stepped through the doorway, nodding to the yellow uniformed individuals he found in the next room who snapped off salutes. It’s better to handle this in private.
Lt. Tuvar rose from her desk as he entered and raised her arm in a salute that Kelsey waved away. There was no need to stand on formalities, though many often did in his presence. Kel seated himself across from her and took a deep breath as she returned to her own chair. The XO glanced over his shoulder at the clear plastic door that slid shut and confirmed to himself that the area was secure.
“Computer,” he said as the chamber fell silent. “End all recording in this room. Security protocol Alpha Gamma Gamma Delta One Nine Six Nine, by Commander Gavison’s orders.”
=/= Orders confirmed. Security recording temporarily disabled, Commander. =/=
Kel smiled, “Precautions.”
OOC: response if any…
“Well,” the XO breathed as he crossed his legs and placed his hands on his knees. “I guess I’ll get right to it since I’m sure you have as much to do as I.
“Tuvar, the captain and I have been talking and we feel that there is a definite threat to MacTavish’s life what with his brother being in the vicinity and all. It doesn’t take a genius to figure that there’s no love lost between them, and his brother—Ian—might feel that he could take advantage of any familiar feelings Jack might still harbor for him to make his move on the vaccine. After much deliberation it was determined that the best solution would be to assign a personal bodyguard for Jack; someone who could be at his side without raising suspicion.” Kel smiled and spread his hands apart as he made the excuse. “We wouldn’t want to hurt his feelings after all, and we certainly don’t want him to feel as though we don’t trust him because that’s not the case at all.
“In trying to determine who might be best suited to the role your name came up.” The commander paused for a moment to gauge Lt. Tuvar’s response (OOC: insert here and I’ll back post if necessary).
“The assignment is difficult to say the least. We can’t provide you with any more reason to be in his shadow than necessary so you’re going to have to think on your feet. Both the captain and I feel that should you need to temporarily reassign some of your responsibilities you have the go ahead. Protecting Jack MacTavish has just become your top priority.” From terrorists and himself.
(OOC: reply)
With a final nod, Kelsey stood and gave Tuvar a small, encouraging smile. “Good luck, Lieutenant.”
That said, Commander Gavison took his leave and went on about his day.
Posted on 2006-10-26 at 20:35:33.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off Q&A
Subject: Well, what do you expect?
Char's a simple guy. Simple answers work best. 
 @ social workers.
Posted on 2006-10-25 at 22:29:47.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off
Subject: Valentine and Jal... two different people. Got it.
With the sun beating down upon his back and his horse stepping impatiently beneath him, Char listened to the various comments made concerning the information he’d brought back. He was momentarily confused when his report didn’t seem to be taken as news, almost as though the party were already on their guard, aware that something lay ahead. True, he’d done the thundering charge back towards the companions as though a gate from the Abyss had sprung open at his feet, and that was likely to set this group on edge, but there was more to it than that. They had known something of what he’d delivered before he’d completed his report and he longed to find out the how and what of it. When Dapple had made her comment Char had graced her with a look that said, “Shaddup.” He was used to the banter. That’s how they operated. She ripped on him, he on her, and in the end they (at least Char felt this way) relied on each other and trusted one another… so far as Da’ Moon could trust anyone, he supposed.
Valentine’s response had been what he’d expected: cold, harsh, full of reason. Tha’s a Red, Char-lad. It reminded him that perhaps Jal wasn’t the one who’d turn out to be the trouble, after all, Spellbinder just spoke to thin air, Adrian had actually worked for the enemy, been trained by the enemy, and had breathed the enemy’s culture. By the time the wizard had finished his commentary the ranger was about to toss a sneer his way and dismiss his suggestion out of hand. Jal’s response, however, was more immediate and was cause for Char to quite suddenly realize he was staring at the man with his mouth open. It was, in fact, in conflict enough with what the ranger’s original opinion of the man was that Char nearly missed Valentine’s reply. Wha’s da bloke abou’ den, Char-lad? ‘E playin’ witcha ‘ead? Of course, the pale-eyed man had to go talking to thin air again sending chills up and down the ranger’s spine, but still…!
The ranger snapped back to his usual self when Arien laid down the plan. He considered what it would take getting in behind the lot of them and doing so in such a fashion that they weren’t putting anyone in any real risk. His brow kept rising and falling as he considered angles, remembered the undergrowth, the lay of the land, and the best vantage points as he could recall. Then, he offered up a slow nod.
“Aye, coul’ be done, I suppose. Dough, I dunna see da reaso’ t’ pu’ anyone t’ risk when i' be likely dat one o’ these slingers coul’ use dare magic t’ pu’ da buggars ou’ fas’ enough. Den we tie dem up, poin’ ou’ da finer poin’s o’ dare poor choice in vocate-ione, an’ leave dem a knife t’ cu’ demselves free an’ coin enough t’ ge’ dem int’ Freegay as dat be wha’ day say day wanna ge’ coin fer anyways.”
Char threw a glance Kilgim’s way, then back to Arien and Da’ Moon, finally skimming over Jal as though looking at him hurt the ranger’s eyes. He purposefully ignored Valentine and since Talas had yet to speak up, figured the man had nothing to offer, so he didn’t bother looking to the pit fighter for suggestions either.
(OOC: No hard feelings folks, Char's a bit judgemental at the moment. Might be that time of the month... might not. He might just be hating Reds...  )
Posted on 2006-10-25 at 21:02:45.
Edited on 2006-10-25 at 21:03:53 by Bromern Sal
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off
Subject: Huh? What? Can you unnerstand da words comin' outta my mouf?
Char crouched thirty paces away from the location where he’d tracked the would-be bandits to. The undergrowth was thick about him, the leaves tickling his exposed flesh. He chewed on his bottom lip while he considered what he’d just witnessed and the best approach to take with it. As near as he could tell, the path that the rest of the party would take would lead them right through this area (though not through the thicket). The ranger absently snapped a small stem of grass from its root and began to chew on the earthbound end as he peered out through the foliage at the road that his companions would soon be taking. He found that he wasn’t the least bit concerned for the well-being of his companions, but a strange occurrence had taken place: he was concerned for the well-being of the bandits!
Char’s neck jerked about sharply, almost like a convulsion had taken him, as he shook his mind free of the thought. Focused on the situation at hand the ranger considered the possibilities: it was fully possible that the bandits would do something desperate like attack a group of heavily armed adventurers and get themselves slaughtered. Yes, in that event there was a chance that one of them could get lucky and wound—maybe even kill—one of the party (though Char quickly skimmed over that possibility). They seemed children of circumstance and as Char had been in more than one tight spot, he couldn’t hold it against them. The possibility that they’d just set him up came to mind too, but then they’d have to of known the party was coming, known Char was on his own, and instead of just nabbing him, concocted this elaborate plot to make him feel for their situation so that they could lure the whole rest of the party into an ambush… Char paused in chewing on the stem and raised his eyebrows. He had heard of more ridiculous notions, especially with magic afoot and creatures who could change shape who were inclined towards the devious hunt. With a slight shake of his shaggy head, the ranger dismissed that possibility as well.
They were still too far away for the Reds and Greens to be much of an affliction, but at the same time, if Char were commanding an outpost on the edge of enemy territory one of the first things he’d do would be to try and establish a spy who was in the advantageous position to warn him of the advent of attack. This returned the ranger to pondering the use of magic—divination magic Alloryn had called it—to determine their progress and establish an ambush. Once again, Char shook his head and returned to chewing on the stem. T’ say yer bein’ paranoi’ is ‘n un’ersta’men’, Char-lad.
This returned Char to his original summary that the bandits were, in fact, what they’d appeared to be and in that case, he had to save them from themselves.
Of course, there were options here as well. Char considered the mental image of him waltzing into their camp tossing some of his newfound coin about as he skipped out the other side humming lively songs the whole way, but after chuckling at the absurdity of the imagery he moved on to the more practical. Stealing away from the undergrowth he padded quietly along until he came to where he’d left Northwind. Quickly mounting, the ranger turned and cast one last look in the direction of the bandits to make sure they hadn’t noticed him before reining his horse about and putting his heels to the animal’s flanks. As Northwind thundered back the way he’d come, Char considered his approach. He wanted to put enough distance between him and the party that they’d have time to maneuver no matter the plan decided upon. So, Northwind took up a lather and the vision of Char riding quickly, low to his noble horse’s back, was what would greet the rest of the companions as he came into view.
Northwind slid and stomped into a solid stop before Arien and the others. Char grinned broadly to make sure they knew he didn’t have a horde of demons after him and bent to pat Northwind on the neck.
“Tha’s a goo’ lad, thar,” he said calmly to his winded steed, looking up at Arien to wag his brows at him while he played up on the anticipation the others were likely feeling at his approach. When he felt that he could no longer put them off, the ranger sat upright and tossed a thumb back the direction he’d come. “Thars some bandi’s a’ead. Well, no’ really bandi’s, bu’ more like kiddies, playin’ a bandi’s. Four, I tink. An’ no’ much o’ uh threa’.”
Glancing back down the road Char shrugged. “Day ain’ onna road, though. Sittin’ in da bush waitin’ on someting t’ pass bys. ‘Eard ‘em talkin’ afta’ trackin’ dem t’ da spo’. Day seem ‘ones’ folk, ov’rall, jus’ fell on ‘ard times, bu’ I ain’t rulin’ out no attack an’ dat be wha’ I wanna avoid.”
Char scratched at his beard a bit as though determining whether he wanted to add the next bit or not. He apparently decided on adding it as he said, “Don’ much wanna jus’ leave ‘em t’ die on anudda bloke’s blade eider. Tinkin’ i' migh’ be bes’ t’ ‘elp ‘em some, if’n we can.”
Returning his gaze to the gathered adventurers, the ranger awaited their response.
Posted on 2006-10-24 at 20:21:37.
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Topic: Star Trek: Discovery - Q&A
Subject: I've actually been waiting...
I've been waiting on Olan's return in case he wants to counter Kel's last suggestions before posting a go ahead. Sorry for the delays folks.
Posted on 2006-10-23 at 00:18:28.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off Q&A
Subject: For the record...
The error was on the Player's part... in other words: I'm the idiot here. I've rectified that in my head though so hopefully my fingers will acknowledge. Terribly sorry for the oversight.
Posted on 2006-10-23 at 00:16:05.
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Cyberpunk 2020
Subject: Congrats Raven!
Guardian earned himself an IP in Awareness/Notice. Tough check and he did it.
Posted on 2006-10-21 at 13:27:51.
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Mature Content
Subject: Still with Guardian
The Mean Streets – Night City – 11:12pm
The image of the Hole’s rooftop came into focus through the rain-splattered shades that covered Guardian’s eyes. It pixilated for a moment, then refocused at a mental thought from the large bodyguard to a higher clarity, refining the blurred edges of shadows, sharpening objects, and helping to clarify the mess of shapes barely visible through the rain. His eyes darted about within the socket, cataloguing the objects and relaying the digitally enhanced imagery to his brain with technologically advanced acuity (Awareness/Spot check 29). It was due to this that Guardian was able to pick out the shadowed frame of a man crouching near a large cold air outlet. Nearly blending in with the slate gray and black field behind him, the man was very obviously holding a fully automatic assault rifle. The basic shape thereof was too muddied by the weather for Guardian to determine exactly what kind, but the size was enough to confirm his initial suspicion. The man was also in a vantage point that allowed him coverage of the whole parking lot and the buildings beyond, though a normal man couldn’t see very far in this weather this was a boostergang member, and boostergang members loved cyber enhancements.
DigitalScribe stood behind Guardian as the big man surveyed the building that was their target. He, too, was eyeing the Hole, his own vision enhancements at play. He’d missed the man atop the roof, but he’d been mostly focused on the windows and the path ahead of them. His teleoptics had zoomed his vision right up to the window panes and the slick details of the brick. As Frank shrugged and drew his handgun, DigitalScribe reached out and put a stalling hand on his shoulder.
“Hey, the last thing we want here is a firefight.” The media motioned towards the building ahead of them. “If what you say about your sneaking skills is true,” Frankie gave his bodyguard a smile to soften what came next. “Then walking up to the back door with guns drawn probably ain’t the best of ideas, neh?”
DigitalScribe frowned a little as he continued to study the building, then gave a slight shake of his head. “We could try to angle for the story. Maybe they’ll be a little more forgiving of an interview if they’re offered facetime on the big-vid? What d’ya think, big guy?”
(OOC: Remember, the URL for the map is here: MAP)
The Mean Streets – Night City – 11:14pm
Posted on 2006-10-21 at 13:24:29.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off
Subject: On the Road Again...
His pulse throbbed in time to the easy canter Northwind took as they left the stable and made their way down the dirt road. The sun had not yet risen over the needle-like peaks that surrounded Freegate, and a slight, cool breeze brought the shiver of life to his back, but the ranger was smiling with contentment as he held the reigns easily in his gloved right hand. The streets were practically empty at this time, though many a window was lit by oil lamps and candles so that the tenets of such homes could prepare for their days. Char could hear the occasional cough through closed shutters as he and Northwind clomped by, the soft muttering of voices as two people conversed quietly within—noises that would soon be lost to the bustle of the day. This time of day could almost fool a person into thinking the city was a quaint local, similar to a grove just waking up to a dew-filled morning after a peaceful slumber, but Char was no fool and he’d seen too many of these mornings dashed against the rocks of civilization of late to want to wait around for another.
He’d barely been able to sleep the night before out of pure excitement to feel the soft earth of a meadow beneath his feet once again, to have at his side, his only companion for the moment, his loyal steed. He could already feel the sun on his shoulders, the mountain air tickling his lungs, and the soft sounds of insects humming that weren’t associated with offal and refuse. His gear had been packed in his backpack and belt pouch with the usual care making it easy for him to remember where each item was. The whole of the interior of each pack was lined with wax paper to help keep the water out and he had tied these to the Northwind’s saddle between the bags that draped over his haunches. He’d donned his gray-green studded leather (unlike Arien’s and Kilgim’s, Char’s was worn with dirt in the crevasses, dried mud smeared about it and the occasional bit of grass attached) with care, settling the armor in place over the padding so that it wouldn’t interfere with his movement and allow for the most comfortable situation possible. Then, with his quiver over his shoulder, his swords, daggers and knives strapped about his body, and his bow in hand, Char had mounted Northwind and made his way out of the ragtag warren that passed for a stable in Freegate.
Their dinner conversation had done little to put the ranger’s mind at ease concerning Jal. Kilgim was given to recognize Dwan’s talents for picking people who suited the purpose of the mission. He, of course, trusted in his cousin’s judgement and Char couldn’t fault him for that, but Kilgim hadn’t seen the vision Sunset had delivered—a vision that still set the gruff ranger’s skin crawling and his stomach in a knot. It wasn’t so easy for Char to dismiss Jal Spellbinder as harmless, and the man’s incessant chatter with the unseen didn’t help his case any. Then there was Valentine, the ex-red… going to face greens and reds with an ex-red in tow… that thought was about as appealing to Char as having to get dressed up in a doublet and hose. Of all their new companions Talas seemed to be the only straightforward, what you see is what you get, addition. The big gladiator wasn’t as refined as Shona had been, but he seemed to be of the same mold and that was something Char could get behind. So it was that Char arrived at the west gate with some trepidation, some excitement, and no small amount of caution.
When Dwan had made his rounds, giving everyone their farewell in turn, Char gave his companions a once over to make sure they were all ready, then with a nod to Arien, he Turned Northwind out the gate and led the party onto the mountain path. Char wasn’t the type to wonder after their future. He’d plan for events, but he wouldn’t dwell on “what if’s”, so his focus was primarily on what lay in their immediate path. As the pathfinder his responsibility was to make sure the party wasn’t ambushed, didn’t come upon anything that might deter them from their path, and find them shelter when it came time to camp. So, when they first left Freegate, he remained at the front of the companionship, but not yet removed. It wasn’t until they were no longer in the protective region close enough to the city that most dangers were alleviated that the ranger urged Northwind on ahead of the rest of the party. The distance he put between them was adequate enough so that he could determine the best route, mark it with stones or sticks in a particular style Arien, Dapple, or Kilgim would recognize should it take them from the road, or investigate a potential danger and return to the party before they stumbled on it. He moved carefully, often dismounting to allow his well-trained horse the opportunity to walk calmly along the road while he ran up the side of the mountain to get a better view, or having Northwind wait for him at the base of an outcropping while he scaled it and surveyed what lay ahead. Sometimes he walked in front of Northwind while the loyal animal paced him. In these times Char had his bow in hand and studied the ground, the lower branches of trees and bushes, the way that the rocks lay and the dirt had settled to determine whether anything or anyone had passed ahead of them recently, crossed their path, or otherwise disturbed the ground in passing. While Char was not one to dwell on “what if’s” he was a careful man, especially when the lives of people he’d come to trust were at stake.
Posted on 2006-10-21 at 12:12:23.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off
Subject: Char the Storyteller... Keep up if you can.
The three exited Dwan’s with new purses of hard coin in hand and though Char made the effort to act jovial and excited about their turn of luck, he was having a hard time shaking the imagery Sunset had so thoughtfully shared--’Ave t’ give da li’l drago’ a bi’ o’ spiced sausage fer dat. The tavern to which he led his friends was a few blocks away, down a winding road and across a small, stone bridge with a green-gray iron plaque that the ranger had never bothered to read. In truth, he’d rarely come this way in the past since he had no reason to visit Dwan’s except by invitation, and that certainly wasn’t something that happened on a regular basis. Despite this, Char never took a wrong turn, never had to pause to consider his direction; the ranger led them straight and true through the front door.
“Char!” A thin, whip of a barmaid smiled broadly showing a huge array of teeth below her delicate, pert little nose as she caught sight of him from where she stood by the counter.
“’Ey, Telva-lass,” the ranger responded with a dip of his head and his quirky half-smile. In the time they’d been in the city he’d made few friends, preferring to remain aloof and undisturbed, but Telva hadn’t been easy to dissuade. Char pointed at the table in the back corner near the earthen wall and cast in relative shadow, receiving an eager nod from the little woman by way of response.
“Da lass’ll bring da draugh’,” he said as he led the way to the table, ignoring the rather direct and somewhat hostile looks passed his way by a number of the burly patrons sitting well into the light of the overhead lamps. Taking the chair with his back to the wall, the ranger pushed one of the adjacent seats out to the side of the table and propped his dusty boots up on the seat providing the other two with their choice of any three other chairs.
Sure enough, just as they were all finalizing their seating arrangement, Telva hustled up and set mugs of frothing beer in front of each of them. She still wore that grin that made her mouth look too large for her face. She was a cute little thing overall, with bouncing, curly blonde hair and an almost childlike innocence about her despite the low neckline of the blouse and the very womanly features of her body, but Char seemed not to notice these things.
“Ya go’ som’uh dat dark stew Khyma’ makes, lass?” he said while looking her in the eye and leaning back in his chair in a very relaxed fashion, but just so that the hilts of his Kukri stood out above the table.
“Yes!” Telva’s smile broadened (if that were possible) and she practically bounced on the balls of her feet as she leaned forward, offering Arien a rather generous view of her cleavage as she whispered, “But I’ll get you some of the fresh batch, not the stuff that’s been on the fire for the past three days. For all three of you?”
OOC: Order what you will, it’s on Char.
When Telva had moved away to take care of the orders Char hefted his beer and buried his face in the head for a moment. When he pulled away his mustaches and beard were covered in the bubbling liquid, but the ranger held no qualms about wiping the white cloud away on his sleeve.
OOC: Char will give the others time to relax a bit, enjoy their beer, and possible engage in small talk… I’ll back post if necessary.
After they’d enjoyed their meals, the scruffy ranger leaned forward in a conspiratorial manner. He clasped his hands before him—those hands that always seemed to have dirt beneath the nails and between the patterns of his skin—and lowered his voice so that just those at the table could hear him.
“So, ‘fore Da’ Moon an’ Sunse’ took dare leave uh us, da drago’ did share somet’in’ wit’ me.” His icy blue eyes darted between dwarf and knight as he spoke, making sure they were both paying attention. “Ya’ll saw dat she done flew up t’ dat Jal Valen’in’, no? Well,” he shifted and licked his lips. “I tink she done looked t’ ‘is min’. I tink she done seen ider ‘is pas’ er ‘is future, ‘cause she done come back t’ me an’ shows me dis image…” Char continues to relate what it was he was shown and then he drops back in his chair and eyeballs the two waiting for their reply.
Posted on 2006-10-18 at 19:58:58.
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Cyberpunk 2020
Subject: Sorry.
I must've forgotten about that part. Been dealing with a pretty rotten sickness and its been screwing with me brain!
Anyway, I've started the convo via PM.
Posted on 2006-10-18 at 19:29:45.
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Cyberpunk 2020
Subject: I haven't heard either.
I don't know if he's still around or not. I haven't heard from him in a long while. I may just take over the character as an NPC until someone I think can pull it off applies for the job.
Posted on 2006-10-17 at 14:26:30.
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Cyberpunk 2020
Subject: Current posiitons, etc.
Currently, the party is to the west of what is presented on the map. If I remember correctly, without consulting the backposts, the party's meeting with Spiff and Coyote took place a couple of blocks to the west. The Hole is the red building. The whole layout of the map follows:
Top right, that's a bus station. Not a bunker, but an actual station with multiple places for buses to park, a number of bunkers, and a lot of cement awnings. There's also a convenient store. Next to it is an old factory, ok condition, though it will be shut down for the night. The next building is an old office building, also in ok condition and closed. The fourth building (top left) is another office building, though this one has a couple of lights on in the upper stories. The right side block is basically apartment buildings, though the white building down towards the bottom right is a covered parking garage. The left block is where the Hole is located. It is the red building. The gray building south of that is another apartment building and, you guessed it, that is an open air parking lot behind it. The building to the left of the Hole is another apartment building.
Your current surroundings are pretty much the same. You're in another open air parking lot, though it is much smaller than the one represented on the map and the description of the cameras and such that I put in Guardian's post aren't there for you guys. You're between two large, red brick office buildings with small storefronts on the base level--closed, and likely secured. There's little light in the parking lot and with the storm raging, it is pretty gloomy.
Posted on 2006-10-17 at 11:43:39.
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Cyberpunk 2020
Subject: Looks good now.
Good catch and good edit.
Posted on 2006-10-16 at 16:18:22.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off
Subject: Looks like Jal failed... ;)
Char’s face remained impassive as Gwanele answered Dapple’s question and though his jaw tightened when Jal Spellbinder began his discourse, the ranger remained utterly still. He really wanted to sneer at the man’s conceited nature, insinuating that Char wished for a magical display was like referring to the seasoned mountain man as a child eager for an illusionist’s show. He desperately wanted to take that expression of the wizard’s face, but for the sake of the mission he refrained. He even went so far as to feel momentarily betrayed when Sunset took flight to land near the man, but it was quickly suppressed. Sunset had proven to be a rather independent creature. That’s not to say that the ranger wasn’t pleased when Sunset returned to land between he and Dapple, though that feeling quickly changed with the imagery the little dragon presented him.
What could have instigated such vivid and horrible imagery? Had it been something she’d “seen” when she’d investigated Jal? Was this some deep, dark secret of something he’d done in his past, or perhaps something that he was considering…? This line of thinking soured the ranger’s consideration of the wizard even further, though he admonished himself that he couldn’t really jump to such conclusions without further evidence. In all fairness to Jal, Sunset had just been by him, her impressions may have come from someone else in the room. Char’s icy blue eyes traveled across the faces of each of the newcomers, trying to see through their exteriors to what lay beneath.
He’d been on many an adventure in his lifetime; traveled with many a new face. For some reason, this particular mission and these new faces didn’t sit well with him. There’d be a time and place to discuss this with the others he’d come to trust, but now certainly wasn’t it.
Char didn’t realize Dapple had gone, so intent was he on trying to decipher the intentions of the newcomers, until it occurred to him that he no longer craved sausages. That was one thing that Sunset had instilled within him: a love for spiced sausage. Peering about the chamber, the ranger shifted in his seat and considered the young woman and her penchant for secrecy. Their trip to the keep had done little by way of building a comfortable trust between them—admittedly, Char had spent the majority of it teasing Da’ Moon, and when he’d discovered her little secret, he’d been a bit more verbose in his calling her out. Still, they’d faced dangers together most people never consider and they’d both been forced to save the other’s life so he’d hoped that she’d developed a sense of humor. While in the city they’d seen precious little of each other and it appeared to him by her desire to slip out unnoticed that his hope for a little dent in her armor had been misplaced.
Char waited as Jal made his farewells and departed, then the ranger stood and motioned at Kilgrim and Arian. “”ey lads,” he said while scratching his scruffy beard. “Wha’ say ya t’ a beer an’ somet’ng t’ fill da belly?”
In truth, he wanted a chance to voice his concerns about their companions and what Sunset had shared with him away from Dwan’s. Turning to their dwarven host, Char gave him a roguish half smile and a slight nod—the best he’d come to a full bow.
“Thank ye fer da trus’, Lor’ Dwan,” he offered. “Won’ le’ ya down. I swear on me mudder’s grave.”
That said, and should Arian and Kilgrim choose to follow him outside, Char will lead them to a small tavern he’d been frequenting that offered dark corners and an earthen air about it. There, over beer and beef stew, he’ll proceed to relay to them the vision Sunset had shared with him and his suspicions as they currently stand.
Note - Jal and Valentine are two different mages. Jal was the one who asked about wanting a demo. Valentine is the ex-red mage (carries a bastard sword). I fixed the post.
Posted on 2006-10-16 at 13:43:21.
Edited on 2006-10-16 at 14:21:28 by Alacrity
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Mature Content
Subject: The Guardian... still haven't seen that film yet.
The Mean Streets – Night City – 11:10pm
With Guardian in the lead, the two beat it across the street, splashing through the oil-slick puddles and scanning their surroundings with a practiced, nervous eye. The media knew that they were close to one of the toughest boostergang on the street’s hide out and with all that had gone down tonight already he wasn’t sure they wouldn’t be aware that something was up. He also knew that Croaker and Peacekeeper—he still had difficulty referring to that mallplexer with that street moniker—would be about soon enough and right now, that meant an even greater danger. Boosters usually loved the spotlight and didn’t mess with a media too heavily, but there was currently nothing stopping Croaker from putting a bullet in his temple except Guardian. No matter what he thought of the large black man running point, Guardian against Croaker, Peacekeeper, Preacher, that Bullseye fellow, and Firewind was not good odds.
DigitalScribe slowed to a halt behind his bodyguard as the man came up on the southeast corner of the apartment building between them and the Hole. Ahead of them was the outdoor parking lot, a few cars, some bikes, a couple of burroughwagons, and a pickup sat within the compound, the overhead lamps illuminating the lot with relative effectiveness. About twenty feet up the poles on nearly every third lamppost was a armored security camera and signs were posted all about stating:
The vehicles on this premise are protected by the Crandall & Martin Security Company. C&M has been authorized by the city of Night City to use excessive force in protecting these vehicles. Lot fees are 5Eb a night, or 1Eb per hour.
Peering past Guardian, DigitalScribe quickly panned the parking lot with his camera, waiting on instruction from his combat ready employee before proceeding further.
(OOC: Remember, the URL for the map is here: MAP)
The Mean Streets – Night City – 11:12pm
Posted on 2006-10-16 at 13:05:48.
Edited on 2006-10-16 at 13:27:59 by Raven
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Topic: Cerebral Paradox - Cyberpunk 2020
Subject: Yes, welcome.
Blammm is, in fact, a new face in CP. I expected there to be some confusion as to what's going on concerning the initial post, but I was pleased to see that it wasn't too drastic, nor unfixable.
I've edited your post a little Blammm to reflect things you didn't know upon posting. I don't normally edit player posts, but in this case I figured it was the quickest way to get things lined up.
Everyone else, let's keep going!
Posted on 2006-10-16 at 12:35:17.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off Q&A
Subject: Nothing but endearments...
Those are fine qualities!
Posted on 2006-10-14 at 12:04:04.
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Topic: Star Trek: Discovery
Subject: Afterwards...
Stadate: 2366.10.22
USS Discovery, Observation Leck – 1102
Gavison watched as the others exited. He’d caught Noah’s motion to remain and did so with the calm air of one who was confident everything was under control. When the last of the staff had stepped through the door and it had closed on their heels, Kelsey gave a slight shake of his head and allowed the air to escape from between his lips.
“Jack’s intel complicates things very much,” Noah observed. “Bad enough that there is terrorist activity at all, but if Jack’s brother is indeed involved…”
“I’d been thinking the same thing.” Kel looked down at the reflection of the overhead lamps in the black gloss of the table and wondered if he should give voice to his questions about MacTavish’s intentions. Lifting his gaze he met Captain Blair’s firmly as the man continued.
“Kelsy, I trust Jack to do his duty; I have no doubt as to his loyalty. That being said, I would be a fool to not be concerned should he cross paths with Ian. If nothing else, it would be human nature to take a foolish chance in order to ‘set the record straight,’ as it were.” Noah gave a heavy sigh that Kel very much understood. “If you have any recommendations, I am open to them. I would think that, if nothing else, Jack should probably stay on board the Discovery, rather than ride the delivery shuttle, when we reach Aldor V.”
“I think that is reasonable.” Kelsey smoothed his goatee. “I was considering assigning a non-human task force to that anyway. My concern lies more in the possibility that should Jack become aware of any intel that might point to his brother’s location he might find a reason to be in the vicinity.
“Perhaps it wouldn’t hurt to provide Lt. Tuvar with reason to be in close proximity to Mr. MacTavish while he’s on duty…” Kel frowned at the slippery slope he’d just found himself on, but pressed forward anyway. “We could couch it as a concern for Jack’s safety. After all, if Jack feel’s this strongly—“ Gavison motioned towards the viewscreen where Jack had nearly let slip his expletive. “—About Ian MacTavish, it could stand to reason that Little Brother might just want to take out his political beef on Big Brother… no pun intended.”
OOC: response?
Kelsey shrugged and rubbed at the back of his neck with his left hand. “We could always pile a bunch of busywork on Jack’s shoulders in an effort to keep him too occupied to get really involved, but I believe he’d recognize that and take offense. I’d hate to undermine his confidence in our trust, and that’s one helluvah way to welcome someone into a new post. I really believe that Lieutenant Tuvar is our best option.”
OOC: response? Will update if necessary.
“It never gets any easier, does it?” Noah sighed.
Kelsey offered a small smile by way of consolation. “Look at it this way, Noah. We could very well have the opportunity to help Jack bury—“ Kel winced. “—I mean, put behind him—something that has apparently been bothering him for some time while bringing a fugitive of justice to the Federation. But to be honest, I’m hoping it doesn’t come to that. Maybe we’ll luck out and the BFT’ll have passed on to another system.”
OOC: response?
Posted on 2006-10-13 at 19:27:03.
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Topic: Continuing Where We Last Left Off
Subject: Consideration.
Char was once again reminded of how it was that Dapple had stayed alive thus far in such a cruel world where one of her persuasion was likely to be crapped upon, knocked over, and ground into dust. He'd learned quickly enough that though she was a sarcastic, smart-mouthed, hard-headed thing, she had the right to be so, especially when so many of them were eager to follow the rest of mankind into the frey without so much as considering the consequences. Having grown up in the camps following mercenaries across Furyondy, Char was only too aware of the tactical disasters that a failure for proper planning could result in and he mentally chastised himself for even thinking of rushing out into battle like some bull-headed gladiator to please the crowd. Been in da ci'y fer too lon' Char'lad. Goin' sof' in da 'ead.
He listened to Valentine's simple explanation for seeking an end to a conflict with Reds and wondered at the ease with which it was delivered. It sounded easy enough, but...
"Da trick be t' git close enough," the ranger offered with a hard smile. "Da' Moon 'ere, an' I be decen' enough fer such a ting, bu' da res' o' ya are likely t' draw some few eyes yer way les' ya be able wit da magics dat can cloak da eyes."
He looked to the obvious spellcasters and peered down his nose at them, not so much in an attempt to look imperious, but more so that his hair would fall out of his eyes. Nevertheless some few strands clung to his scruffy facial hair leaving the desired effect incomplete.
"Well, now I guess be da time t' say such tings. Wha' ya likely t' bring t' da table, lads?"
As he waited for an answer his eyes flickered to Sunset. Yer gettin' me t' be 'un-gary, li'l beau'y... I wan' some o' dat sausage too.
Posted on 2006-10-13 at 18:54:55.
Edited on 2006-10-13 at 18:58:05 by Bromern Sal
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