Vampire the Masquerade - V5 - Session Eighty Seven - 'The War Council' (Part Two)

I'm currently running a Vampire the Masquerade chronicle using the 5th Edition rule-set for a small group of fellow role-players. These are the chronicles of their adventures.

Our chronicle is set in Los Angeles and features a small group of Camarilla agents sent into the 'Free States' to bring them back under Camarilla control. Over a year of plotting allowed the coterie to gain control of two North-Eastern Baronies and a large part of a third. Now they are moving on to the final stage of their campaign and have their eyes on taking over the entire city, either directly or by proxy.

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The now obligatory warning bit - Unlike my other RPG write-ups this one will contain swearing, sexual references and other references that might offend. If you can't tell the difference between real             peoples opinions and grown-ups role-playing predators who crave blood then this probably won't be for you. I've also used actual photographs to represent some characters which I'll give acknowledgements to at the end if I've any idea who they are.
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The introduction to this campaign, the first story and all the other parts can be found at the following links and are in chronological order. If you'd prefer a summary of each session rather than read everything then there's a more detailed link page HERE as well as links to the first episode of each story in the blog sidebar.
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Chronicle One - 'Infiltrate L.A.' 

Welcome to L.A. - Introductory Session
Story One - 'Three Murders' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Interlude Session - One
Story Two - 'The Pasadena Problem' - Part One, Two, Three, and Four
Solo Session - 'The Neillson Library'
Story Two Continued- 'The Pasadena Problem' - Part Five, Six, Seven and Eight
Story Three - 'Becoming Baron' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Solo Session - 'The Gather'
Story Three Continued - 'Becoming Baron' - Part Six, Seven and Eight

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Chronicle Two - 'Foothold L.A.' 

Solo Session - 'Hostile Takeover'
Story Four - 'Countdown' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Five - 'The Missing Chantry' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five
Solo Session - 'The Anaheim Assassination'
Story Six - 'A Meeting of Barons' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Seven - 'The Carmelita Situation' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Eight - 'The Blount Sisters' - Part One and Two
Story Nine - 'Blood Money' - Part One, Two, Three, Four, Five and Six
Story Ten - 'Anathema' - Part One and Two
Story Eleven - 'Predators and Prey' aka 'The Blount Sisters' - Part Three
Story Twelve - 'Aftermath' - Part One and Two
Story Thirteen - 'The Messiah Complex' - Part One, Two, Three and Four

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Chronicle Three - 'Incursion L.A.'

Story Fourteen - 'The Rant'
Story Fifteen - 'Ties of Blood' - Part One and Two

Solo Session - 'A Gathering of Roses'

Story Sixteen - 'The Southern Solution' - Part One, Two and Three
Story Seventeen - 'The Baker Disappearance' - Part One, Two and Three

Story Eighteen - 'Inevitable Betrayals' - Part One, Two, Three, Four and Five

Story Nineteen - 'The Marius Contracts' - Part One and Two

Story Twenty - 'The MacNeil Protocols' - Part One, Two, Three, Four, Five, 

Story Twenty - 'The MacNeil Protocols' - Part Six, Seven, Eight, Nine and Ten

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Interlude Session One - After Griffith Park

Interlude Session Two - Divide and Conquer

Interlude Session Three - On the Brink of War

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Chronicle Four - 'Conquest L.A.'

Story Twenty One - 'Veni, Vidi, Victor' - Part One, Two, Three, Four, Five

Story Twenty One - 'Veni, Vidi, Victor' - Part Six, and Epilogue

Story Twenty Two - 'The Unbound' - Part One, Two, Three and Four

Story Twenty Three - 'The War Council' - Part One

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The PC's

Michael Tomassio - Toreador, 'Baron of the North East'
Vincent 'Vin' Ghast - Brujah, 'Constable'
Dr Daniel Matthews - Banu Haqim, 'Fixer'
Hope Romero - Gangrel, 'Census Taker'
Mr Hertz - Nosferatu, 'Seneschal'

The Storyteller

Garreth - Everyone else...

The player characters stats and backgrounds can be found HERE should any-one be interested, but be warned that the page is usually several stories ahead of the most recent write-up and may contain some spoilers. 

There's also some minor 'house-rules' HERE that have occurred as we went along.

If I think something needs a bit of out of character explanation then those will get a storytellers note that will helpfully be in red. Where particular NPC's have a mention in a faction profile you will be able to reach it by clicking on their name or faction beneath their picture.

Introduction

Vannevar's initial assault upon the Free States was carried out quickly and efficiently and the coterie has been attempting to make sense of the chaos. Rumours and conjecture are rife but some actual information has been compiled on just how each Barony has been affected.

Scene Four - A City in Turmoil

Henrique 'Hank' Boyd - Brujah
Crypts Sons Baron, In Torpor

The Crypts Sons are leaderless and their numbers have been cut in half, courtesy of a car packed with military grade explosives. With the gang's numbers already depleted by war with the mortal gang known as 'The Blood', they are now barely able to manage their own mortal allies, let alone help defend the Free States.

Hank survived but is now in torpor, a fact that is being kept as quiet as possible, and his body has been hidden deep in the Warrens by Gary Golden, leader of the Hollywood Nosferatu.

Steve Booth, Baron of the South Coast has also met his final death. Despite warnings from his own sweepers and the Gangrel mercenaries known as 'The Hunters', he ignored reports that his territory was being scouted and ordered the aforementioned kindred to investigate certain events that in their opinion were clearly diversions. 

They were correct and were delayed long enough so that all they could do was avenge Baron Booth, rather than save him. As the only thing keeping the informally organised kindred of the South Coast together was Steve's charismatic presence, they have now fractured into a number of small gangs all interested in their own petty fiefdoms. It is rumoured that Hector O'Neill survived the blaze that destroyed his baron but if so, his whereabouts are unknown.

Steve Booth - Destroyed, Hector O'Neill - Missing

Harvey Caplan, defacto Baron of the docks, on the other hand was more than ready for an incursion from the sea as he had been meticulously monitoring the comings and goings of all traffic into, and out of, the docks. After it became evident that Steve had no intention of taking action, Harvey secured his own domain and left him to his fate. Vinicius's 'Hunters' have left their boats in his care and withdrew to their own base in Huntingdon.

Harvey Caplan - Los Angeles Docks, Vinicius - Pack Leader of The Hunters

Many of the duskborn who had made their home in the South Coast Barony have sought sanctuary in the domain of 'The Liberated', and with Baron Martinez's permission this has been granted. Given past actions by the Camarilla against those they deem 'thin-bloods', the inhabitants of this pseudo barony are understandable concerned. Though understandable, these actions have further weakened the South Coast of L.A.

In other baronies, Vannevar's forces have had less success though most attribute this to fortunate circumstances bought about by the recent destruction of Victor Girard, that he could not have known about, rather than any real skill on behalf of the kindred involved.

Baron Gloria Martinez - El Hermandad, Baron Allison Maller - Anaheim

He could certainly not have predicted that Barons Gloria Martinez and Allison Maller would be travelling in armoured convoys consisting of nearly the entirety of their forces. Outnumbered and outgunned, his own assault teams withdrew without engaging. The childer of Garcia have now withdrawn back to their own bases of operations though as it has been proven that Vannevar has assassins within the city, it's only a matter of time before he makes a more subtle attempt. Priss's recent upgrading of her own defences may also have been a factor in the lack of any attack upon 'The Border'.

Damsel - Brujah
'Den Mother' of Nines Crew

A chance intervention by Michael Tomassio's bodyguard Daniel was all that prevented Damsel's destruction after her would-be assassin was shot through the head during the very act of aiming the weapon that would have ended her unlife. 

A separate attack upon Nines Rodriguez was foiled only due to the resilience of the Gangrel Skelter who took the brunt of the initial barrage of gunfire. They managed to fight their way through the ambush, and engaged in a running battle back to their own base. The battle alerted Marius's own Downtown sweepers and their counter-ambush forced the attackers to retreat. They didn't get far.

Nines reportedly beat their leader to final death with his bare hands, not stopping until only a bloody smear remained. Only Damsel's surprisingly diplomatic intervention prevented Nines from then heading straight to San Francisco seeking revenge. Skelter will need time and vitae to recover having been nearly torn to pieces by armour piercing rifle rounds and is unlikely to be much help for the immediate future.

Isaac Abrams - Toreador
Baron of Hollywood

An attempt upon Baron Abrams has raised a number of questions amongst the Anarchs of the city about just how old and powerful the Toreador actually is. The gunmen who riddled his car with high calibre, armour piercing, incendiary rounds must have been surprised to find he had escaped the vehicle and that only his sweeper had been destroyed.

Isaac's subsequent destruction of them by simply commanding them to kill each other, and for the last survivor to kill himself has raised some worries amongst the other Barons. That mental strength could easily change the balance of power in Los Angeles should the wielder so desire.

The outlying, Baronless domains of Simi, Santa Clarita have been engaged in hit and run actions against scouting parties, reinforced by several packs loyal to Marius.

There has been no contact with the kindred of The Wilds but it's generally accepted that infiltrating that area is more or less impossible without a prohibitively high cost in personnel, both kindred and mortal. It also has no real strategic or economic value to a Ventrue Prince such as Vannevar.

Myranda - Pack Leader of the Wilds Pack

Those Baronies who have seemingly been spared the wrath of San Francisco's Prince has prompted few surprises. Baron Therese Voerman has worked with Camarilla leaders before and has shown to have no problem with dealing with whoever she needs to, regardless of faction. A direct attack on Louis Fortier within his mansion fortress would be suicidally pointless and he and his childer haven't ventured from it for several weeks. The attack upon Nines, within the Barony of Marius Walker has however been a surprise as such an attack is sure to antagonise the notoriously unpredictable Gangrel Baron.

The real talking point however is that the Baronies of Michael Tomassio have apparently been left completely untouched. Such a location would surely have been high upon Vannevar's list of targets yet inexplicably was not.

Scene Five - The Tower

LaCroix - Ventrue
Destroyed Former Prince of L.A.

Michael's suggestion that a meeting between all the barons of the city as a form of Anarch Council has been widely accepted though as a way of planning the Free States response, not as a formal organisation. Nines has suggested that Downtown is the most secure and convenient place to hold a meeting and has insisted that Marius find a secure location for them to gather.

Somewhat ironically he has suggested Venture Tower, former base of the destroyed Prince LaCroix, as this building is centrally located and has, according to Marius, already been fitted with appropriate security precautions. Given the urgency of the situation, the meeting has been scheduled for this very night.

As it has become somewhat of the standard procedure now. Each Baron is to bring an advisor and up to two kindred to provide his other needs whether that be security or other services. Marius has also effectively opened his borders for the night and allowed the Barons to bring whatever additional security forces into Downtown that they deem necessary.

Venture Tower - Downtown

Michael has elected to bring Mr Hertz as his advisor and Daniel and Vin to fulfil the bodyguard roles. Hope meanwhile has been tasked with patrolling the outskirts of their own barony should Vannevar attempt to take advantage of the situation while they are gone. All of the North East's Sweepers have been put at Hope's disposal in order to ensure that any incursion could be responded to effectively.

The tower has been renovated from the somewhat ostentatious edifice that it once was and now has the appearance of a conventual, albeit tall office building. Despite the fact that it is certainly the tallest building in the city, it seems to have been redesigned in order to reduce it's obviousness.

You have been given directions to one of the several private parking areas that serve the building where you are to be met by Victoria.

Victoria - Ghoul of Marius
Psychopathic P.A.

"If you'd like to follow me, I'll show you to a room where you can wait until everyone arrives. Leanna thinks it's important that everyone is shown equal respect and enters the meeting at as close to the same time so as to give that impression. She has advised that this will give us the best chance of getting an agreement at the meeting. For once, the manipulative slut has proved useful...marginally..."

Michael detected a hint of jealousy in Victoria's tone which struck him as unusual. Victoria, despite being a mere ghoul, was foremost amongst Marius's followers and even his  kindred agents deferred to her out of a mixture of fear and respect. She should have had no reason to feel in nay way threatened by Leanna.

"There's security, fucking everywhere. It's a bloody fortress not a skyscraper." stated Vin. "Yes...." replied Daniel. "...but it's subtle. We're looking for it, but if we weren't, I doubt you'd notice a fraction of the precautions that are in place."

You are escorted to a private elevator which takes you to the 95th floor, then through a lobby area to another elevator which takes you up a mere three floors to the 98th. This particular elevator is far more heavily constructed than the previous one. 

"I'm not sure an elevator is the best form of transport under the circumstances" said Daniel to Victoria

Dillan Fitzgerald - Malkavian
Architect

"It's bomb, bullet and fire proof and won't fall even if the cables are cut." she replied "The other elevators have the same precautions but these are especially well protected. Fortunately we merely had to fine-tune LaCroix's original design for the building, not start from scratch. Dillon did the fine-tuning of course."

Dillan was a Malkavian architect with a knack for innovative building designs. He operated out of Downtown with Marius's blessing though did some freelance work for other kindred too.

The area you are now within is somewhat unusual as despite being part of a much larger floor, seems to be effectively self contained as if designed specifically to keep one group separated from another.

Victoria points out a large office that you may use until the other guests arrive and a door to a flight of stairs that lead to the meeting room. "I'll ring you on the office phone when everything is ready, If you'll excuse me I have several other egos to pander to and have been instructed to be nice to everyone which as I'm sure you can imagine is an extra stress I could do without..." She then returns the way she came.

The thought of Victoria attempting to be pleasant, amused Daniel significantly though he was careful to hid his reaction from Victoria herself.

Downtown L.A. at Night

The office is spacious having several desks, comfortable seating for guests and the usual conveniences that a mortal might use that are useless to yourselves such as a small bar. The room also contains a landline, and a computer with a card next to it with guest log-in details. The window gives a tremendous view of the city.

Vin tapped the glass of the window in order to draw Daniel's attention to it. "Armoured?" he asked.

"Three layers of armour to be exact." replied Daniel, pointing out the triple glazing  "No security cameras though, other than the one in the corridor and no listening devices I can detect. We can talk freely in here."

The coterie sat and made themselves comfortable though Daniel ensured that his own seat faced the door. Vin meanwhile was standing by the doorway so he could both involve himself in the conversation and observe the approach to the office.

Vannevar Thomas - Ventrue
Prince of San Francisco

"Why weren't we attacked?" asked Mr Hertz. It was a good question and one they needed an answer for as it was bound to come up during the meeting of the Barons. "Perhaps he's giving you an chance to side with him?" suggested Daniel. "Or possibly he's trying to draw suspicion towards you because he thinks you won't side with him?"

"Either is a possibility." agreed Michael

"Unfortunately we're open to blackmail, if he can prove we're here with Camarilla backing..." stated Vin. "...so we may have to destroy him to safeguard our own plan for the city."

"Fortunately he hasn't much credibility with such an accusation considering our position within the Free States and the fact that we saved Damsel." Pointed out Michael "Though anything we can do to further undermine his credibility and prevent him from acting against us personally will need to be considered carefully."

'The Blossoms' - Toreador

"There's another issue." added Vin. "The Blossoms have informed me that Louis Fortier and Marius Walker are very close to open warfare. Louis is blaming Marius for the loss of Catherine's ghouls and Marius is pushing back so not to show any weakness." 

He continued "Unless one of them backs off, Vannevar will have two less Barons to worry about as they'll be too busy fighting each other. They're also the two best war leaders the free states has, without them we might as well just hand Vannevar the keys to the city."

"Marius won't leave himself vulnerable like that." countered Daniel. "He's too pragmatic. He'll find a way to defuse the situation without it looking like an apology."

"Unless he's having one of his random moments..." mused Michael. Further planning was interrupted by the office phone ringing "Everyone's here. Please make your way up to the meeting area." said Victoria before hanging up somewhat abruptly

Scene Six - The Anarch Council

"The View From Venture Tower"

You find yourself in a spectacular, open plan room with entrances evenly spaced around the corners from which several groups are entering, though some others are already seated. Centrally placed is a large round table with thirteen sets of seating around it's perimeter. 

One of each of the paired seats is slightly larger and more ornate than the other, presumably to distinguish Baron, from Seneschal. The outer edge of the room is taken up by sofa's and less ornate tables. Presumably for the security and other guests to await the pleasure of their masters.

Each wall has a window facing out onto the city and though there are shutters to obscure these they are currently open. One of the pairs of seats has been indicated as reserved for 'The Baron of the North East'. 

'Priss' - Lasombra
Baron of 'The Border'

Anaheim was represented by Allison Maller and her advisor was a Caitiff that Daniel recognised from recent events named Aaron Chaney. Her Gangrel sweeper Zakaria Barrera and the Brujah Maikki were her security representatives. Priss of 'The Border' had no advisor though her two Gangrel sweepers Arbaaz and Ophelia were acting as guards. Karen Anatos, Baron of Burbank was quite alone having neither guards nor Seneschal. Unsurprising as she was the sole kindred resident of her barony.

In Hank's absence, The Crypts Sons were represented by his Harpy of sorts, 'Deacon' and a single guard who none of the coterie recognised. Marius was accompanied by the strange duskborn seer Rosa who as usual was inexplicably making some kindred uncomfortable for no easily definable reason. Blanche of The Butchers’ and Meredith Lang of Ennoia’s Hunters are seemingly there as security. This was unusual as none of the coterie had ever seen them act as Marius's guardians before. Presumably this was more due to their practical experiences in facing Vannevar's forces than an implication that they were his most skilled operatives.

Gloria Martinez is guarded by Josie Parrish and Leo Frost, her two most senior lieutenants. Alessandro Kaye, the House Ipsissimus blood sorcerer has taken the advisors seat. Isaac Abrams, Baron of Hollywood is seated with Dawn Cavanagh of The Ministry. With his sweeper recently destroyed in a failed attempt to assassinate Isaac, the bodyguard role has been taken by one of Velvet's dancers, a woman named Sofia who is reputed to be quite deadly with a variety of exotic weapons.

Dawn Cavanagh - The Ministry, Sofia Rivera - Toreador

Somewhat surprisingly, Gary Golden of the Hollywood Warrens has his own spot despite having never accepted the formal title of Baron. Kendrick formally of the Barony of the Angels is at his side. A single guard, Barabus, is standing behind them. Barabus was Gary's first choice for tasks that were likely to result in violence. Unsubtle by Nosferatu standards, he was however extremely deadly up close and personal.

Gary Golden - Hollywood Warrens, Barabus - Spy and Enforcer

Therese Voerman, Baron of Santa Monica is accompanied by Jane Lane her Seneschal and is protected by Ellie-May 'Lee' Li and Charlie 'Chick' Abbott of Therese's so-called 'Commando' coterie. Both her guards were vicious killers but in very different ways. Lee was Toreador, Chick was Banu Haqim and one of the few kindred in the city aware that Daniel was also of her clan and not Brujah as he claimed.

Ellie-May 'Lee' Li - Toreador, Charlie 'Chick' Abbott - Banu Haqim

In Steve's absence, his place at the meeting has been taken by Harvey Caplan who is now effectively the only kindred leader in the South with any resources to speak of. 'Shantelle' of 'The Rats' is his guard along with the cloaked figure of the Gangrel Aquarii known simply as Kahu. Many presumed, incorrectly, that Kahu was an agent of Marius's whereas he was in fact quite independent. Generally he answered to whoever ran the various dockyards of Los Angeles as he made his haven beneath them. Sensible kindred left him to his own devices for the most part as he was a formidable and ruthless hand to hand combatant if threatened.

Atarah - Lasombra
Ally of Baron Fortier

Louis Fortier is being advised by Catherine Du Bois rather than Mariel St. John, presumably as Catherine controls Louis's army of ghouls. The Gangrel Marco 'Joey' Joseph is one of two guards. The other is 'Atarah', a Lasombra of mysterious origins, who resides in Baron Fortiers domain. The area around her is dimmed, regardless of the ambient illumination. She has spoken to no-one. Atarah was universally feared by any who had been unfortunate enough to witness her at work. Her generation was unknown but she seemed to possess abilities far beyond the norm for even an ancient member of her clan. Since making her Haven within West Los Angeles, enemies of Louis had disappeared at a consistent rate until none now remained.

The Wilds are represented by Myranda who is accompanied by, Tabatha Mayer former leader of the Brujah of Covina. Lola and Samael are her protectors, not that she needs them. Myranda was a grandechilde of Marius and it was well known that he supported many of her whims. Even without such a protector she was more than capable of taking on her enemies both politically and physically.

The final seat was occupied by Amara Martins, current leader of The Liberated, a group of Duskborn and Caitiff granted domain by Gloria Martinez. She had neither obvious advisor, nor guards, merely being accompanied by three other duskborn and seemed nervous almost as if she believed that she had no right to be there. 

Amara Martins - Duskborn
Current Leader of 'The Liberated'

All had been made aware that she was there at Gloria's insistence and so none of the kindred had questioned it. Allison Maller had also stated that she also deemed them to be under her protection. Though some of the other Barons were dubious about the arrangement, none were willing to go to war against two of Salvador Garcia's childer over such a minor point.

Nines and Damsel were absent though most were aware that they were currently rallying any independent kindred in the Free States against Vannevar.

Once everyone is seated, Marius stands. "LaCroix designed this space to lord over his Primogen. I have had it repurposed for our needs. I needn't go into details but suffice to say that this facility is equipped with every available defensive and offensive security precaution. Each representative of their barons will be given appropriate access codes so you may use your respective offices and this meeting room whenever you so desire. This room is also shielded against surveillance so you'll find yourself unable to make calls from this room with any wireless devices. An inconvenience, but necessary I'm afraid." 

Marius Walker - Gangrel
Baron of Downtown

"However, before we formally begin, I need to clear the air a little." 

He walks around to where Louis is seated. As he approaches the shadows in the room appear to flow around him becoming thicker, as if Atarah is seemingly preparing for any treachery. "The Gangrel of Simi Valley and Santa Clarita did not sacrifice Catherine's ghouls, however, they did fail to protect them which was a mistake on their part." He then hands Louis a piece of folded paper which Louis unfolds and reads. "I trust that will be sufficient reparations for your losses?"

Fortier nods and then speaks himself. "I appreciate the gesture. It would not do for the two most proficient war-leaders amongst us to start this campaign at odds with one another and I therefore accept." 

No-one questions Louis's statement and it's obvious that rumours of the two Barons disagreement was a concern for many present. It seemed that Daniel's earlier assessment of the situation had been correct and that Marius had no intention of getting into open warfare with Louis at such a dangerous time in the cities history. Fortier and Marius's relationship seemed to be in a constant state of fluctuation and often it was only the enterprises shared between Marius and Fortiers most favoured childe, Catherine DuBois that prevented outright conflict.

Scene Seven - Recriminations and Deliberations

Surprisingly, Amara was the first to speak. Michael imagined that she had rehearsed what she had to say and wanted to get it over with as soon as possible. Despite her obvious apprehension she spoke clearly and with apparent confidence. The empathic Toreador could clearly see however that it was, for the most part, a façade.

Thin-Blood Alchemy

"My fellow duskborn are understandably concerned about our status, or lack thereof, under Camarilla rule so will assist in any way we can. We lack the variety of powers available to others here but we have several alchemists amongst our number who may perhaps have abilities that Vannevar's forces may be unprepared for. Their skills are basic but are at your disposal..."

There were a few murmurs of acknowledgement from the other Barons. The Camarilla had actively hunted thin-bloods and Caitiff for many years and despite a recent perceived tolerance of their presence, the thin-blooded had no doubts that they would have greater respect in an Anarch ruled city than a Camarilla ruled one. Once the noise had faded, Amara continued.

"For those of you who are unaware, we of the liberated take turns in representing our group but given the circumstances it has been decided that I will remain in the role for the duration of the current crisis."

Michael then decided to interject. "I'm sure I speak for us all here when I say that I am happy for you to remain as leader for the time being. As you have the trust of both Baron Martinez and Baron Maller their faith in you alone should be sufficient to reassure the rest if us of your competence." Though he used it's powers in a very different way from his Baron, Vin nonetheless could see Michael's skilful use of both the discipline of Presence and rhetoric to manipulate others. What Vin used as a bludgeon, Michael used as a precision tool and his skill with it was constantly developing.

Rosa - Duskborn Seer
Occult Advisor to Marius Walker

Rosa then interrupted and spoke to Amara. "We have access to several kindred who may be able to help you develop the occult skills of your alchemist followers further...if Marius can spare them that is?"

Marius's sideways look at Rosa made it clear that he wasn't particularly keen on the suggestion but he covered up his reaction fairly quickly. The more observant of the kindred present would have been sure to notice however. "Of course. If Miss Martins wishes to speak to me after this meeting I'll see what I can do to enhance the usefulness of her forces for the upcoming conflict. I'll see if Leanna can be made available to you..."

Amara seemed especially nervous when replying to Marius specifically. Though he had done so in self defence, more or less, it was well known that he had been responsible for the final deaths of dozens of duskborn when Jenna Cross had led what was now known as 'The Cross Rebellion'. Though quite insane she had convinced most of the cities highest generation kindred, caitiff and thin-bloods to attempt to take over Los Angeles.

Storytellers Note - This event can be read about in 'The Messiah Complex' story. Scene Twenty Seven to be exact. I can be found HERE.

"I'm not sure how we would pay you for the services of such a notable individual as Leanna..." began Amara. "...our resources are limited in the areas of both finances and boons." Marius seemed to ponder her statement for a moment before replying. "Pay me what you think you owe me once the service has been provided and this particular problem has been resolved. I'll deal with any shortfall so that Leanna isn't overly inconvenienced."

Leanna - Duskborn
Blood Sommelier and Alchemist

Those who had dealt with Marius before exchanged curious glances at one another. A benevolent Marius was an unusual occurrence at the best of times and if anything, this act of generosity actually made those present more suspicious, not less. Amara however was well aware that this was a rare opportunity and so readily agreed to his unusual terms. Michael gave Daniel a brief sideways glance which he interpreted as "Find out what the hell Marius is up to this time..."

Deacon of the Crypts Sons was next to speak and raised the tricky question that Michael had bene anticipating. "So do we know why exactly, that Michael's Barony seems to have been spared Vannevars attention?" Vin tensed at the question though most present who noticed interpreted this as due to the tone with which his Baron had been addressed, rather than any guilt. Daniel hid his own reaction with much greater skill.

Michael shrugged dismissively and then spoke. "I have no idea why we were the exception but I conjecture that we are being observed and that was sufficient. We are close to the border and an invasion of my Barony could easily be carried out from bases in the mountains or San Jose which he know controls. Why would he expend resources unnecessarily?"

Deacon attempted to reply but was spoken over by Baron Abrams. Deacon knew better than to object especially given the abilities that Isaac had recently shown in defence of his own person.

Vannevar Thomas - Prince of San Francisco

"Presumably Vannevar is aware of Michaels status as an influencer of Anarch affairs and that he would likely be our first choice as negotiator should such a point be reached. One can also presume that he has surmised that alienating such an individual would be a bad start to any peace talks..."

Michael nodded his thanks to Isaac for the explanation and the other Barons were either satisfied or unwilling to disagree with the Baron of Hollywood. Whichever it was, the debate moved on.

The Toreador Baron of the North East knew that these petty political matters were only the first of many before the matter of organising the defence of Los Angeles could be discussed. This was going to be a long night...

To Be Continued in 'The War Council' (Part Three)

In Conclusion

I like to do a round-up of how the session went in these features but if you couldn't give a shit what I think then feel free to skip this bit...

Well they made a good start but with every power-player in the city seated around the table this is going to take a lot of work to organise. Looks like I'll have to alter the map of the city and the relationship map...again... *Sigh*

Acknowledgements
“Portions of the materials are the copyrights and trademarks of White Wolf Entertainment AB, and are used with permission. All rights reserved.”

I've used pictures of real people to represent some of the characters and art for others so in no particular order Michael Tomassio is represented by Matt Bomer, 'Vin' is Scott Adkins, Dr Matthews is Mads Mikkelsen, Hope is Deborah Ann Woll, Mr Hertz is Charles Dance, Henrique 'Hank' Boyd is Michael Clarke Duncan, Harvel Caplan is Harvey Keitel, Vinicius is Liev Schreiber, Gloria Martinez is Ariadne Artiles, Allison Maller is Chloë Grace Moretz, Isaac abrams is Gary Oldman, Myranda is Shannyn Visceral, Victoria is Lilith May, Dillan Fitzgerald is Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Vannevar Thomas is Bryan Dechart, The Blossoms are (Tayla Quintana is Alyssa Milano, Karla Bray is Rose McGowan and Lottie Noble is Holly Marie Combs), Priss is Sofia Boutella, Dawn Cavanagh is Emma Stone, Sofia Rivera is Eliza Dushku, Ellie May Li is Bai Ling, Charlie Abbott is Lena Headey, Amara Martins is Indira Varma, Marius Walker is Tony Curran, Rosa is Mahafsoun and Leanna is Leeanna Vamp.

Everything else is from vampire related folders and searches and is as far as I know is all of the 'fair use' variety. If there's something that you feel should be attributed to some-one then feel free to let me know and I'll happily add an acknowledgement.

Cyberpunk Red - Session Four - "A Hot Minute"

A roleplay session in the world of Cyberpunk Red

This session was written up by our Gamesmaster Matt and formatted for my blog by me.

Previous 'Gigs'

Story Arc One

(0) Spydar's Web, (1) Big Trouble in Little China, (2) Eye-Spy, (2a) Raven, (3) Death's in the Family.

The Players

Our players were all started at Rank 4

Garreth as Avery Hicks, Exec

and his Crew Member 'Jasmine'

Phil as 'Holliday' Nomad

Martyn as 'Klink', Medtech

Gamesmaster

Matt as everyone else.

Scene introductions and 'speaking to the players' bits are written in Blue to distinguish them from the roleplayed parts of the scenes.

Session Four: "A Hot Minute"

Introduction

You have been summoned back to the office of Preston Garvey, the Acquisitions Exec at Budget Arms. Though it is evident that he has another job for you, the message you received did not explain anything about the nature of the job.

Garvey's Office

The three edgerunners stood in the lobby of Garvey’s office.

As before, the office lobby was modern and stylish. The screens continued to stream Network 54 news channels and screamsheets. Through the window, the Glen was illuminated in the pale red morning light. People went about their business blissfully unaware of the sort of dealings that the corporations carried out behind the scenes and the decisions that affect their everyday lives.

Anya Metallik, Garvey’s personal assistant, entered from the office. “Preston is ready for you now.” She said gesturing for the three men to enter the office. Avery took the lead, followed by Holliday and Klink brought up the rear.

As they entered, they noticed that the seating area that had been in the centre of the office on their last visit had been used to support a map table instead. Preston and his bodyguard, Kilo were standing around the map waiting for them.

Preston Garvey - Exec
Budget Arms, Acquisitions Dept.

Garvey begins. “Gentlemen, I have another job for you. Thanks to your previous efforts, I have the location of an underground vault abandoned during the 4th Corporate War. This vault contains valuable raw materials which could revitalise the manufacturing wing of the company. Needless to say, this is a critical opportunity for Budget Arms that could give us a serious advantage over our rivals.” He motioned towards Kilo. “Kilo will lead the team for this operation. You will accompany him and a squad of our security operatives. Kilo.”

Kilo took over. “I will lead the team and you three are to accompany us. Everyone will be issued with a radiation suit and a rebreather. We also have a number of radiation detectors that will be shared amongst the group. The Hot Zone is like the combat zones turned up to eleven. The gangs that haunt that place are insane, irradiated savages and cyberpsychos. In the event that we are confronted, we shoot first and ask questions later.” He cast an image from his agent onto the screen. It showed a ramp down to large armoured doorway. “We have the access code for the vault but nothing more. Once we get there. The team and I will form a defensive perimeter while you three enter and retrieve the target resources. There is an amount of gold registered on the manifest that is a key material component for electrical manufacturing. This is the objective. Once the gold is located, you reconvene with the rest of the team and we will exfiltrate back here. Though the radiation might be low level, we will still take the precaution of decontamination on arrival here. Any questions?”

EuroDollars or 'Eddies'

Avery addressed Garvey. “How much?”

“1000eb each” said Garvey presuming Avery was asking about the pay.

Avery snorted in derision and turned to leave. “I presume you wish to haggle.” Said Garvey evenly.

Avery stopped. “2000eb and a percentage of the take from the gold.” He said.

“There is no percentage, the gold belongs to the corporation once it has been recovered.” Said Garvey.

“2500eb then.” Snapped Avery.

“Yes, fine, that’s fair.” Said Garvey, barely even pausing. Avery couldn’t help feeling that he the Acquisitions exec had agreed too readily.

“Do we have a schematic for the bunker?” Said Holliday.

“Not as such.” Said Kilo. “The basic layout is an underground loading bay with a number of small individual vaults divided up inside. We have nothing beyond that.”

“How much gold are we looking for?” Said Holliday.

“There is 400kg of gold registered on the manifest. That is the objective.” Said Garvey. Holliday whistled to himself. “Do we get any other equipment? Ammunition? Smoke? EMPs?”

“We’re providing the suits, rebreathers and the like but anything more specialised is up to you to acquire.” Kilo concluded. “The missions begins at 1700 hours. Meet us in the underground parking lot here. If you have other business, you have until then to prepare and acquire any additional equipment you think you will need.”

“We’ll be sending you the bill for that too as it's an Acquisitions operation.” said Avery

Preparations

Nico - Fixer, Arms Dealer

The three edgerunners left office and made their way down to the front of the building. Avery called Nico, a fixer they had met a few weeks earlier.

“Hi, Avery isn’t it?” He Nico. “I don’t have a lead on that gun yet or do you need something else?”

“Yes Nico, this is Avery. I’m required to do a job that might need specialised equipment and I thought you might be able to help.” Said Avery.

“How specialised?” Said Nico.

Holliday leaned in. “EMP grenades?”

“We require some EMP grenades.” Said Avery.

“Those are expensive.” Warned Nico. “I might be able to get hold of some though.”

“How much and how many can you get?” Said Avery.

“Those are 500 apiece. I can get you…” He paused “Eight.”

GM's Note - I rolled a d8 for this and typically it rolled an eight. Thank you winds of fate.

“We may also need a chemical analyser.” Said Avery, reasoning that it might come in handy in the hotzone.

“That’s not usually my thing but I might know a guy. Give me an hour.” Said Nico “I’ll send you the location for the meet.” He hung up the phone.

EMP Grenades - Night Market

The location was in the University district bordering with the Glen. Nico waited with a large toolbox. “4000eb for the grenades” he said as Avery approached “and 1000 for the chemical analyser.”

Avery couldn’t help himself in any trade situation. “Will you do 4500eb?” He said. “Nah man, I can’t go that low. 4700eb is as low as I can go.” Said Nico.

“Capital. Budget Arms is picking up the tab for this. My boss is a prick trying to cut corners. Send the invoice for 5000eb to him.” Thanking Nico for the equipment, Avery turned to the others. “We have couple of hours. I suggest we talk strategy over lunch.” Avery then handed Holliday and Klink a hundred eddies each from the three hundred he had skimmed from the deal.

Finding a restaurant not far from Budget Arms, the three men plotted the operation. The restaurant was suitably upmarket to satisfy Avery’s social standing but also ready enough to admit the brutish looking Holliday and Klink. For the first time, Avery and Holliday observed Klink eating a meal he hadn’t stolen. 

Restaurant and Café - The Glen

The Medtech took a while to understand the concept of a restaurant to begin with but thoroughly enjoyed a bacon cheeseburger and an ice cream sundae once he got to grips with it. He experienced a lifestyle beyond kibble and saw that it was good.

“I suggest that we set up a private frequency for this job.” Said Avery “separate from Kilo’s team frequency.”

“You expecting a double cross?” Said Holliday.

“You don’t jump up 1500eb per person without a little pushback.” Said the exec “Not unless you don’t think the guy is going to be coming back to get paid.” He sighed. “Anyway, we’ve been used by this prick before. We have no reason to trust him.”

“So, either it’s more dangerous that he’s told us or we aren’t supposed to come back from the hot zone. Brilliant.” Said Holliday. “Guess we need to be on our toes out there.”

The Gig

Militarised Delivery Vehicle - Budget Arms

They arrived at the underground parking just before five pm. There was a delivery vehicle that had been modified to accommodate personnel parked in one of the bays surrounded by a number of Budget Arms security officers checking weapons and gear and helping each other into radiation suits. Kilo was amongst them, coordinating their preparations. Klink also recognised Boxer, a solo he patched up a few weeks earlier, it appeared he had been designated to drive the truck.

Kilo waved them over. “Here are your radiation suits and rebreathers. The rebreathers might be unnecessary but it’s better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them.” He handed over the gear and four large carryall bags, one each for Klink and Avery and two for Holliday. “These are for the gold. Now, get ready and then load up with everyone else.”

GM's Note - All perception checks from here were at -2 because of the radiation suit

Cyberarm - Popup Grenade Launcher

While Klink ripped an arm off his radiation suit and duct taped is sealed around his freed cyberarm, Holliday made for the cab. “Where do you think you’re going?” Said Kilo.

 

“I thought I might be useful in the cab.” Said Holliday.

“You’re riding in the back, I’m up front with Boxer.” Said Kilo, sending the huffing nomad back to the others.

The back of the truck had no windows to speak of and was illuminated by a single strip light in the middle of the ceiling. The three edgerunners were tightly packed in among the security operatives. It was cramped, claustrophobic and oppressive. No doubt the team were used to these sorts of conditions but Avery, Holliday and Klink were not.

For the most part the journey was quiet. The other passengers had very little to say and there was an atmosphere of concentration and focus. The drive started off smooth as the truck made its way north through the Glen. After a short while, Kilo spoke over the radio. “We are about to enter the Hot Zone.”

The Hot Zone - Blocked Roads

The ride immediately got more uncomfortable. The roads hadn’t been maintained for two decades and it showed. The truck juddered and shook as it navigated over rubble and potholes or swerved around obstacles in the route. As they journeyed further into the zone, the radiation sensors began to crackle into life.

 

Suddenly, the truck stopped and Kilo came over the radio again on the open channel. “The route is blocked.”

The edgerunners heard Boxer respond. “We could take another route, divert around and re-join on the other side.”

“We haven’t got the intel on other routes. It’s too much of a risk that we run into more impassable terrain.” Said Kilo “We walk from here. Boxer, you stay with the truck, radio in if there are any problems. Everyone out!”

The door at the rear opened to reveal a ruined wasteland. The radiation sensors immediately picked up a low level of residual radiation and the three men exchanged a look, glad of their radiation suits. They were on a highway. Around them, the broken carcasses of high rise towers stood forlorn and empty. The ground was littered with broken glass and rubble and they could see the remains of groundcars scattered haphazardly around, many of them flipped over.

After the 4th Corporate War

GM's Note - Avery rolled really high for a perception test here. Shame there was literally nothing to discover.

Avery pointed away to the north east. “Arasaka Tower was that way. Weird to think a nuclear bomb went off right over there.” He shuddered. “It’s kind of creepy isn’t it?”

Holliday looked at the shape of the buildings while he checked over his shotgun. He could see that the majority of the damage to the buildings was on the sides facing the site of the towers.  “Damn, that must have been pretty heavy. I can see where the towers just seem to stop.”

“It sort of feels dead.” Said Klink “Not just abandoned but like there’s something missing you can’t put your finger on. It’s a fair shot different to the urban zones.” He adjusted his radiation suit, pulling up around his neck. “It kinda feels like we shouldn’t be here.”

Kilo gathered the ten of them around. “The objective is approximately 5km northwest of here. We go on foot.” He pointed at two of the operatives “You two take the rear, and keep watch for anything behind us.” He pointed to two others “You go ahead and scout. The rest keep your eyes on a swivel and hustle.” 

Klink waved forlornly at Boxer as they set off at a brisk pace into the hot zone. Kilo didn’t seem to want to tarry in there. 

Kilo Shamir - Solo, Budget Arms

Though they were not travelling directly towards the site or the Araska Towers, the radiation detectors occasionally pick up spikes in readings. The route took them further into the zone, passing crumpled and rusted road signs and the burned out carcasses of apartment buildings some still bearing the names of the corporations that owned them. At a crossroad, vehicles had piled up together blown about by the shockwave of the blast forming a barricade or twisted metal. The wind blew through the junction, creating a mournful howl that seemed almost alive in itself.

A street sign creaked suddenly and swung down screeching in the silence. The highly trained guards all snapped into action suddenly and then relaxed when they realised it was noting. The radio crackled into life. It was the forward scout team. “We are about one kilometre out from the objective. We think we heard movement from the east”

“Source?” Said Kilo “A vehicle of some kind. It didn’t sound large. Could be a scout or a courier or something.”

“Hold position, we are on our way.”

Militech Company Logo

The group picked up its pace. When they arrived, they found themselves on the perimeter of a Militech site. It seems that it had previously been some sort or industrial facility, possibly a logistics hub. There were a number of ruined and abandoned buildings that may have been garages or loading docks with a high fence that had several damaged sections that could easily be passed through around it. Nearby there was a guard hut, also abandoned by a checkpoint. The two scouts were waiting near a ruined gas station just outside the perimeter

“The sounds have stopped.” Said one of the scouts, “Whatever it was moved away from here.”

At the edge of his enhanced hearing, Avery could detect the hum of a turbofan. “Kilo,” He said “I can hear something incoming from above us.”

“Everyone into cover.” Said Kilo.

Avery sprinted into the security hut and checked his assault rifle’s magazine. Klink unslung his shield and took cover in the petrol station while Holliday dived down behind some rocks. The others all split up finding places to hide.

Suddenly a drone flew into view. It was small, about a metre square with a large camera on the front. Catching sight of one of the other security operatives, it gave off loud siren and zeroed in on the intruders. More drones converged on the team. There were three small drones with some sort of dartgun and two with firearms. A larger drone followed them hovering menacingly over the fences.

The drones moved in rapid darting bursts firing at the men below. 

Biotoxin Loaded Darts

Avery took aim with his assault rifle at the largest drone, blasting through the rotors that held it aloft. It spun wildly out of control crashing somewhere beyond the fence.

Holliday crippled one of the smaller firearm wielding drones with his shotgun as he ran from cover to cover. One of the security operatives fell to the ground clutching at his throat where a long green tipped dart had pierced his suit. Klink ran to cover him with his shield while shredding the drone with automatic fire.

All around, the security operatives were in disarray. They were used to fighting in cohesive units against other security forces but the unpredictable drone attack had taken them by surprise. Kilo, cold and calculating as he was, seemed unfazed as he calmly shot drones out of the sky with his rifle. Avery shot down a second drone and Holiday finished off the final one with a well-placed shot from his pistol.

“How many did we lose?” Said Avery to Kilo. He couldn’t help thinking that if his fate was in the hands of the infamous solo, then it would be best if the edgerunners were seen as part of the team.

Klink's MedKit

“This one is in a bad way.” Said Klink kneeling over the darted soldier. “I can manage a temporary fix but he’s in no shape to carry on.” The man looked pale through his visor. Klink had treated him as best as he could and duct taped up the hole in the radiation suit but it was clear the man could barely carry himself.

Kilo waved one of the other operatives over. “Take him back to the truck. When you pass the rear guard, tell them to hustle up and reinforce us.” He turned to the rest of them. “Looks like we will be short manned as we reach the vault.”

Klink analysed the destroyed drones but found nothing that was salvageable. The drones had Militech branding and Klink theorised there must be some sort of charging point nearby for the drones to still be active after so long separated from the rest of the city.

The vault was at the centre of the compound. Working their way around the other buildings the party came within sight of the ramp down to the door.

There were a few wrecked vehicles here, one large articulated lorry on its side had seemingly been about to enter the vault when the shockwave hit it. The shipping container it had been transporting had landed about ten metres away from it.

Kilo directed the operatives into defensive positions around the door behind the truck and around the container. “We will wait here for the stragglers and make sure nothing follows you in.” He cast the door code to Klink. “That will get you inside. There could be other defences out here so work quickly.”

“Well, here we go!” Said Klink, manically. He inputted the code and jumped back as the huge heavy doors slid ponderously apart.

Much like the city outside, the vault was eerily quiet. There was a faint hum or air circulation coming from vents in the ceiling but it did nothing to reduce the sense that this vault was as dead as the rest of the hot zone. The edegrunners found themselves standing in a wide corridor, large enough to accommodate a truck. There was a checkpoint set up about ten meters into the corridor. 

The Vault

As they set off into the bunker, the vault door, it slowly closed behind them.

Holliday started to creep slowly and quietly down towards the checkpoint with an EMP grenade in hand at the ready. Avery covered him from behind while Klink, as ever kept back out of the way.

“I can see a camera covering the checkpoint.” Said Avery. “Looks like it’s there to I.D. drivers but I imagine it will alert any security systems if it catches us here unauthorised.”

Silenced Heavy Pistol - Avery's

“We could EMP it.” Said Holliday “seems a waste though, these things were expensive.”

 

“I’ll knock it out.” Avery said. Taking his pistol he put a shot through the cameras lens. The three men tensed waiting for the sound of alarms. The vault remained silent. With a collective sigh of relief, they continued down underground. In the silence of the bunker, they could hear their own footsteps echoing down into the facility.

The corridor opened up into a wide loading hall. It was octagonal in design with separate vaults opening off each side. The road circled around the room with loading bays next to each vault. There was a concrete barrier separating the walkway from the road with is a raised platform in the centre on which stood two large spider drones. With a siren blast, they turned to face the intruders. Two smaller ground drones rolled into sight around the platform from the right.

'Spider' Armoured Security Drone

Avery, Holliday and Klink dived behind the concrete barrier to the left of the podium as a hail of automatic fire scythed into it blasting chunks of stone over their heads. To their horror, a grenade bounced over the wall landing between them. They stared at it in shocked silence for a second before it started releasing a cloud of teargas. Safely inside their sealed radiation suits, they breathed a sigh of relief.

Avery was quickest to react, leaning over the top of the barrier and blasting automatic fire at the closest spider drone riddling it with bullets. Holliday sprinted out of cover hurling an EMP grenade aimed between the two giant drones and then diving behind the barrier on the right. The grenade bounced and rolled under the right hand drone and burst into a flash of blue light. The drone fizzled and sputtered as its legs froze up but continued to aim its guns at him.

Ecstatic at being able to use his pop up grenade launcher at last, Klink fired an incendiary grenade, revelling in the pyro-maniacal glory of the two smaller ground drones bursting into flames. A dual burst of the spider drones SMG fire turned his excitement into fear and he dived back behind the quickly disintegrating wall.

The burning ground drones fired at Holliday, burying small arms fire into the barrier in front of him. He leant his shotgun over the top and blasted one of them to pieces. To his left, he saw Avery pour more fire into the fully functioning spider drone again. The drone fired back, as the exec ducked back into cover. Klink covered him, peppering the spider drone with automatic fire and drawing the attention of the immobilised drone which blew the concrete wall to pieces with its SMG. Klink and Avery threw themselves behind the next section of concrete.

The 'Materials' Vault - Gold Ingots

Holliday wrecked the remaining small drone and angled around from the two remaining drones on the podium. Avery finished off the damaged spider drone with a well-placed single shot that pierced the battered armour and ricocheted around inside the turret. The three men spread out firing at the immobilised drone from different angles, confusing its logic systems and eventually destroying it.

“Thank fuck for that.” Said Avery with a sigh. They walked around the now empty loading bays until they found vault three, labelled “Materials”. Inside, they found a pallet of palm sized gold ingots. Avery turned to Holliday. “Even with your enhanced strength this is going to be a lot of lifting. Let’s look for a pallet truck or something.”

The three of them checked over the other vaults. Holliday caught sight of a giant spool of wiring that he thought the nomads could use but he had no way of getting it out of the vault. He made a note to remember it in case he could risk coming back at a later date. 

Shotgun Pistol - "In need of Repair"

Avery found some old and corroded weapons in another vault left over from before the war. Many were ruined beyond any use or used pre-caseless ammunition that would simply be too much trouble to source. He did find a shotgun pistol, not unlike the one he had asked Nico to find for him. It was in rough condition and could do with a strip down and rebuild, but it was functional. He dropped it into his carryall.

 

Klink meanwhile has located a pallet truck and was wheeling it over to vault three when Avery got a call on his agent from a hidden number. He answered. “Hello?”

“Avery Hicks?” said the voice.

“Yes, who is this?” Said Avery.

“Listen, you’re in danger. You’ve been set up.” Avery’s blood ran cold. “Listen to me. This is Spydar, Terrence Tulcha. You nabbed me from my apartment last month.”

 

“I recall.” Said Avery guardedly.

Spydar - Netrunner, Prisoner of Garvey

“Garvey has had me prisoner. He’s been forcing me to do his dirty work for weeks. He’s tortured me, took my chrome away, fuck, I have nothing. I’ve managed to rig together this signal using salvaged computer parts.” Avery could hear the desperate panic in Spydar’s voice. “Kilo has orders to flatline you all, why else do you think you’ve been sent to the hot zone where nobody will look for you? Garvey has some fucking issue with you. He’s been planning this for a while. He blames you for the death of someone he knew.”

“I had a feeling something like this would happen.” Said Avery.

“The way I see it, you owe me, your interference has ruined me, but it was on Garvey’s orders, we have a common enemy. Get me out and we’ll call it square.” Said Spydar.

“Agreed. Should I survive this, I will do whatever I can to get you out.” Said Avery. “If you don’t hear from me in the next 24 hours, assume I’ve been killed.”

Budget Arms Headquarters - The Glen

“Thanks.” Said Spydar. “He is keeping me in the basement at the tower. There are a couple of guards. I’m not a fighter, I can’t get out on my own. Good luck, I hope I hear from you soon, for both our sakes.” The call ended.

The others looked at the execs stony faced expression. “Garvey has ordered we are not to return.” Said Avery.

“Motherfucker.” Swore Holliday.

“Kilo has orders to flatline us all once we have the gold. Spyday, the netrunner we pinched a month ago has been kept prisoner in the basement back at Budget Arms. He called to give us the heads up. I’ve promised to rescue him if we survive the rest of this mission.”

“Seems the right thing to do.” Said Holliday grimly. “Let’s make a decoy for Kilo and then shoot him in the fucking face when he checks it.”

A Selection if The Outfit's Grenades 

“We could tell him the bars are bigger than expected and we need more help carrying them up.” Said Avery. “Ambush him on our terms.”

“I like that plan better.” Said Holliday. He turned a grenade over in his hands. “We could rig the decoy with explosives, hope to reduce the number of targets before we go into another pitched battle.”

While Klink and Holliday piled scrap and empty magazines into a carryall and rigged the zipper to a grenade pin, Avery called Kilo on the radio. “Kilo, we have good news and bad news.” He said.

“What is it?” Said Kilo. Avery could detect the slight hint of anxiety in his voice.

“We have the gold but there’s more of it than we expected. We need help bringing it up.” Said Avery.

The solo paused for a second, seemingly weighing up his options. “I’ll see what I can do. We have problems up here. We lost contact with the guys heading back to the truck and the rear guard never made it here to reinforce us. Something isn’t right out here.”

Kilo Shamir - Solo
"Something's Not Going to Plan"

It occurred to Avery that this might be a ruse to lure the edgerunners out into the open, but the strain in Kilo’s voice made him think the ruthless solo was being genuine. “Hold tight, I’ll talk to the others.” He said.

Holliday and Klink looked up as he walked back. “Somethings got Kilo rattled.” He said. “Things aren’t going to plan.”

”I don’t think that’s it.” Said Avery. “He’s lost contact with the other four security officers. It might be we have another problem we haven’t planned for.”

“We might need Kilo if we are about to get third-partied.” Said Klink. “We might need to work together to get out of the shit.” He paused. “Do you think Boxer was in on this?”

“Might be we can’t take the risk he isn’t.” Said Holliday.

 

Klink looked glum. “I’ll wait down here in case you need to retreat back down.” He said. “I can lay down covering fire if need be.”

“Ok,” said Avery. “I’ll risk going up.” He radioed Kilo again. “Hold tight, we’ll come and reinforce you.”

“Be careful when you open the vault door. I feel like I’m being watched.” Said Kilo.

“I’ll go with you.” Said Holliday readying his shotgun again.

Holliday's Trusty Shotgun

The two of them walked back up the long road to the vault door and being careful to stay in cover, entered the code to open it back up. The vault opened into the cooling night air. Despite the insulation of their radiation suits, they shivered as they felt the temperature drop. Kilo was waiting with the remaining two men. “We have lost the rear guard. They never showed up. Something must have taken them unawares. They didn’t even radio through a warning. It’s time to get out of here. I don’t know what else is out there, we should keep the pace up and try to get back to the truck ASAP.”

“I got a communication from Spydar.” Said Avery watching Kilo’s face carefully. “Garvey has a grudge against me and he’s ordered you to kill us.” Kilo remained silent. “If there’s something out there, you’re going to need our help to fight it off. I can’t help you if I can’t trust you not to flatline me.”

Old Enemies

Kilo seemed to be weighing his options up in his head. Avery could imagine that he was considering the lives of his squad against the orders he’d been given. He seemed to come to a decision. “Ok, it seems…” Suddenly, his head exploded.

"They Have a Fucking Railgun..."

The other security operatives all dived for cover and Avery and Holliday backed into the vault as more shots rang across the silent plaza. The edgerunners could hear the screams of the security operatives as the high calibre super velocity slugs pierced through their cover. “They have a fucking railgun!” Cried Holliday. He edged around trying to get sight of the sniper nest. “It’s somewhere to the North East.”

From the southeast, a figure appears flanking around the wounded and dying security operatives. He was tall and heavily built and could be described him as “islandy”. He walked with the practiced rigorously drilled professionalism of a hardened soldier. A hard look of focus was set in his eyes. Under the extensive Militech branded cybernetic reconstruction was the face of a dead man. It was Reaver, Jago Rulan, back from the dead.

GM's Note - Their last encounter with Jago is detailed HERE

Vault Door - "The Door Opens..."

“Shit!” Said Avery as Holliday tackled him back into the vault and closed the door. The exec retreated further towards the security checkpoint while the nomad jury rigged an EMP grenade to the door.

“Klink we’ve got a problem!” He shouted into the radio. “Kilo and the others are dead and we’ve got incoming.” He followed Avery back towards the checkpoint. Behind him, the vault door opened setting off the grenade.  It brought Avery a few seconds to fire off a headshot jerking the solos head back.

Reaver’s attention was transfixed on Avery. Perhaps it was identifying him as a threat or maybe it was the residual memory of the man that had killed him. He started firing his assault rifle at the exec who ducked and dived trying to get away.

 

Holliday lobbed a frag grenade at the solo’s feet causing him to leap backwards towards the door. He rolled back to his feet with his weapon ready, weathering more shots from Avery’s persistent fire and firing back obsessed with killing him. To buy more time, Holliday threw a flashbang, causing Reaver to dart back again now outside the vault. He continued to prioritise Avery firing more automatic fire down the avenue.

Jago 'Reaver' Rulan - Solo, Back from the Dead

When Holliday’s call had come through, Klink had considered hiding, but realising that if the others died, he would be next no matter what, he found himself racing towards the sound of gunfire. As he rounded the bottom of the avenue, he could see the heavily augmented Reaver firing his assault rifle down at Avery. He readied his grenade launcher and taking careful aim fired it at its maximum range towards the distant figure. The grenade flew true, striking Reaver in the chest and bursting into flames. He let out a scream that was more mechanical groaning than human cry and collapsed in the centre of the plaza.

Avery drew his pistol. “I’m not having him coming back again.” He said, walking towards the burning body. As he approached, he saw the light in Reaver’s eyes fading to nothing and then he heard a beeping begin. It is slow at first but began to speed up. Giving up on the plan to finish the downed solo up close, Avery turned and ran. Moments later he was blown from his feet as the body exploded. “Well, I guess we’re not salvaging him for cyberware.” He said dryly.

“Ah shit!” Said Klink re-joining them at the checkpoint.

 

"Well, It Looks Clear..."

“We know there’s a sniper out there with a railgun.” Said Holliday. “Who knows what else?”

“Maybe we can scare them off?” Said Avery. He set his radio to a wide open frequency. “Well, we’ve successfully killed that bastard for a second time. Does anyone else out there want to die? Of course we will accept your surrender.” The radio remained completely quiet.

“Either they’re gone, or they’re waiting to ambush us.” Said Holliday. He took a deep breath. “Guess I’ll have to find out.” Gingerly he stepped out into the plaza. Nothing happened. “Seems to be clear.” He said.

GM's Note - They were so paranoid by this point they suspected everything.

After disarming the trap they had made for the decoy, they loaded the gold onto a pallet and took turns pushing the pallet truck through the ruins back to the truck. When they arrived, Boxer greeted them. 

“What happened? I haven’t had any contact for quite a while.”

“It went bad.” Said Holliday.

“Where is everyone else?”

Boxer - Solo, Budget Arms

“Dead.” Said Avery. “Look, I’ve had a long day and I’m in no mood to sugar coat this. Garvey gave orders to Kilo to kill us. Whose side are you on in this?”

Boxer look shocked and a little bit afraid. “I didn’t know nothing about that! As far as I was aware, this was a simple job, easy pick up and home kind of thing.”

Avery studied him for a second and realised he was telling the truth. “Klink vouches for you, but Holliday is the best driver here so you’re getting in the back.” He said.

“This is all awfully touching.” Said Holliday “but we don’t have time for it, there was someone shooting at us with a fucking railgun.”

“Fuck!” Said Boxer. “Exactly.” Said Holliday. “Let’s load up and get moving.”

On the drive back, Avery filled Boxer in on what had happened. “There’s a very real possibility that Preston Garvey’s position is about to become vacant.” He said. “We owe Spydar for his help, but my plan is to go and shoot Garvey in his fucking face.”

“We could split up then. Klink and I can head down to free Spydar.” Said Holliday. “If it goes well upstairs I can smooth that over.” Said Avery. “Of course, if it goes badly, there’ll likely be a price on your heads.”

“Boxer can come with us.” Said Klink. “Give us some credibility.”

 

“Good idea.” Said Avery.

Budget Arms

The truck pulled into the underground parking lot. There was a decontamination tent set up ready and waiting. As they disembarked, they were directed straight into the tent and scrubbed down. Once they had removed their radiation suits, the security chief approached Avery. “Where’s Kilo?”

“Someone scoped the place out and hit him with a railgun. He’s dead.” Said Avery.

“Shit.” Said the chief. “I thought that son of a bitch would live forever.”

“Considering the complications, I’d like to report this back to Garvey myself.” Said Avery. “I'd hate for you to get it in the neck as well, you know how the exec's like to share the blame?” He looked over at Klink and Holliday. “I told the others that Boxer could give them a tour for their service. Is that ok.”

“I can’t see any reason why not. They’ll be with Boxer and he’s trustworthy.” Said the chief.

Anya Metalik - Exec P.A.
Acquisitions Dept., Budget Arms

“Capital. I’ll head upstairs.” Said Avery heading for the elevator.

Leaving the elevator Avery walked into the lobby. Anya stood to meet him as he came in. “Hi Avery, how did the missions go?” She asked. “Not entirely to plan I’m afraid my dear.” Said Avery. “I need to talk to Preston and I think it could get heated. Perhaps you might go down to the canteen for an hour or so? I wouldn’t want him to take his displeasure out on you.”

Anya looked at him slightly concerned. “You’ll be alright?”

“I’m sure I’ll be fine. I’ll talk to you later.” He said.

Inside the office, Garvey was sat at his desk. To his credit, he showed no surprise at Avery’s arrival. “Late for a visit isn’t it?” He said evenly.

“Yes, but I thought an immediate report was important.” Said Avery standing in front of the desk. “How did it go?” Said Garvey.

Avery decided to be blunt. “Kilo took a shot to the head while debating whether or not to carry out your order to kill me.” He said.

Garvey was fast. He made the decision to end Avery in a heartbeat and his hand darted to his gun viperously quick. Avery, had been on a knife edge all day, his reflexes were quicker. He drew and shot Garvey through the eye, killing him instantly.

"A Single Bullet to the Head..."

GM's Note - Garreth didn’t know how close this was. He rolled off against Garvey for this and won the roll by one. 

Satisfied, he pushed the body onto the floor and sat behind the desk.

Holliday, Klink and Boxer took the elevator down to the second sub-basement where Boxer said there were some cells. “They’re mostly used for when customers lose their temper and need to cool off.” He said. “I guess Acquisitions have other uses for them too eh?”

There were two guards sitting in a makeshift station just outside the elevator. “Howdy” Said Holliday walking up to them.

“What are you doing down here?” Said one of the guards to Boxer, while eyeing the hulking nomad.

Holliday took his attention. “Business with the fella in the cell.” He said.

“We haven’t been told about it.”

Holding Cells - Budget Arms

Holliday leaned on the desk, looming over the man. “I’m telling you about it now.” He said.

 

“Does Garvey know about this?” Said the guard, talking to Boxer.

“You can call him if you like.” Said Holliday. “I’m sure it will be very illuminating. Saves me having to explain it to you.” The man stood, squaring up to the nomad threateningly. “Sure, we can play,” said Holliday “It’s been a mighty vexing day.”

The other guard put his hand on his friends shoulder. “Relax. I’ll call upstairs.”

The phone on Garvey’s desk rang and Avery picked it up. “Hello?”

“Uh, Hi?” the man sounded confused. “We have some guys down here wanting to see that netrunner.”

“Yes, indeed.” Said Avery.

“Is Mr Garvey there?”

"Holliday Being Persuasive..."

“I’m acting with his full authority.” Said Avery. “Don’t get in the way of those men. There’s a rough looking one?”

“Yes?”

“Don’t get in his way or he will beat you to death. Don’t annoy the other one either for very different reasons.” He put the phone down and started to contemplate how he was going to spin the day’s events to the board.

In the basement, the guard said “Let them in, they have clearance.”

Holliday, Klink and Boxer walked into the cell. Spydar saw them coming and looked hopeful if a little concerned. Holliday produced some handcuffs and whispered “Theatrics.” As he bound the netrunner’s hands. The three of them escorted Spydar back up to eh parking garage. The truck from the day was still there waiting. “This one good to go back out?” Shouted Holliday to a nearby logistic worker. He pointed at Spydar. “This one needs transporting out tonight.”

The logistics officer barely looked up. “Yeah, you’re good.” He said.

They piled back into the truck. Klink’s agent chimed. “It’s a message from Avery.” He said. “Garvey is dead. Looks like we’re in the clear.”

"Rebuilding the Aldecaldos Camp"

“Hah!” Snorted Holliday. He texted a message back to Avery ‘The King is dead, long live the king.’ He turned his attention back to Spydar. “What are you going to do now?” He asked.

“I had plans to become a fixer.” He said.

“Hmm.” Holliday mused. “I got no hard feelings to you. A job is a job. I know some people who could do with some technical support. It’s out the way, you won’t get no city trouble with them and there’s some great views out there.” He said.

With the first hints of daylight started to show on the horizon, Holliday headed out towards the Aldecaldo’s camp. Spydar would be a useful ally to the Prylor group and this truck would go a long way to helping them rebuild.

He smiled softly to himself. “All’s well that ends well.”

To Be Continued in "Hunter's Hunted"

GM's Round-up 

Well this one was great fun from my point of view. The look of surprise on the player’s face’s when Kilo went down was priceless. It certainly seemed to keep them on their toes and by the sounds of it they loved it.

This also seemed like a good narrative point end the story arc and give them a role rank upgrade. 

GM's Note - Instead of allowing players to buy role upgrades for their primary role I'm instead giving them Rank upgrades when the story warrants it. They can still buy Rank upgrades in a second Role using Improvement Points but can go no higher than half their points in their main Role.

The next arc is going to change it up a bit. They’ve moved up in the world so they’re going to be dealing with a different class of allies and villains and a city that is beginning to notice them.

I wonder what sort of trouble they will get themselves into.

Acknowledgement's

I've used pictures of real people to represent some of the characters and art for others so in no particular order Avery Hicks is Tom Ellis, Jasmine is Dichen Lachman, 'Holliday' is Wes Chatham, 'Klink' is Mackenzie Crook, Preston Garvey is Jon Hamm, 'Nico' is Idris Elba, Kilo Shamir is Jason Statham, 'Spyder' is Joe Pantoliano, Jago 'Reaver' Rulan is Manu Bennett and 'Boxer' is Tom Hardy.