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*****Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ That would be a big mistake to show the whole world taht file,
cause if you did, I would have to kill everyone who sees it, and believe
me I have the power.  Now if you could hand over that file you have, all
I would need is to get Tarkis to tell where his copy is, then I could let
Tarkis go.  I wish I had more than one captive...but Tarkis will do
nicely.  Oh here Tarkis has something to say, this will prove he is still
alive.

Tarkis: hey man, help me, to get out of here or forever hold your
"PEACE", don't give file, don......

hmm started talking to much, couldn't understand what he said..but hey
this is Tarkis...  Ok now hand the files over]<<<<<
        -- DarkLord
           War is the only way.

>>>>>[Uh, first off, this might look a little strange, Trixie's
ltting me use her account for comms and I didn't want to wait to
finish changing the sig.  I should've thought to grab my deck on the
way out the door...  Anyway, with that outta the way I can get down
to business since my faithful manservant Kabuki Man has been
forwarding mail like a man possessed.

And I would like to make a short endorsement for Ford.  The '56
Amercar has the roomiest trunk I've ever had the displeasure of
riding in.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (15:55:55 / 01-06-56)
           Head of Software Design
           Industrial Sound and Magic

***** Private: Chris Tarleton
>>>>>[Oh drek, man.  Sorry, I didn't know.  Wish I could say
something more.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (15:59:59 / 01-06-56)
           Head of Software Design
           Industrial Sound and Magic

***** Private: GoD, Griffyn
>>>>>[I hope you guys think to check mail on a public telecom when
you hit town.  I told Kabuki Man to tell you before you left, ah
well, you'll find out soon enough.

Don't try to get here and I can't get you.  Find a coffin hotel, or
somewhere to crash, just tell us where you are.  We'll get you when
we can.

And yeah, I'll cover expenses.  But don't think I'm coverin' the
bartab.  <GRIN>]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (16:02:12 / 01-06-56)
           Head of Software Design
           Industrial Sound and Magic

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[  Okay, Freddy .. We're holed up at >>encrypted<< for the night, but
do try and get to us as soon as possible.  This motel is _not_ the most
sanitary place I've ever been stuck.  Hell, I'd even take the couch in
your office over this damned place.  ]<<<<<
        -- Griffyn < 20:56:06/1-06-56 >

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[  Well, we're here, umm do I have to stay confined to this place
If I stay here any longer I'm gonna go squierlly and I have to agree with
Griff, I've been in some sassy joints but this place is rediculous.
and rumor has it your couch is just a little bit better.

 what's the situation down here anywas, what do these fraggers look like? and
how do you want them medium toast or charbroiled???]<<<<<
        -- God < 21:33 / 1-06-56 >

>>>>>[Hand of Five? These guys linked up to the Fist of Five? I got a feeling
things are gonna start lookin' real ugly, real soon.]<<<<<
        --  Dragonfly (00:23:21 / 07-JA-56)

>>>>>[Dragonfly, The Hand of Five is a true Humanis splinter group.   The
Fist of Five is a Humanis-like group, in other words the Fist of Five has not
been linked to Humanis at all.]<<<<<
          --Buzz (The one the only...Human Bee in the Matrix)


*****PRIVATE: Humanis Hater's Club (Anna Crew)
>>>>>[I have entered Anna's secondary LTG, and I've found that only two of
the outer weapons bays are Matrix independent.  Their anti-aircraft weapons
are also Matrix independent.  I've, also, found a security film showing
(guess who) Dragon escaping.  The date is three days ago.  I'll upload it
here in the next few days.  I wonder why Dragon hasn't contacted anyone,
knowing him, he stayed in Anna to cut down on the number of defenders.]<<<<<
           --Buzz (The one the only...Human Bee in the Matrix)

*****PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Hey, Freddy, got any good deals happening on large quantities of big gun
s?  Don't need to be GOOD guns, just ones that we can put in mostly untrained
hands with lots of ammunition...]<<<<<
        --  Housefly (14:22:27 / 01-07-56)

***** Private: GoD, Griffyn
>>>>>[Sorry, Trixie wants to keep a low profile.  You might have to
hold on for another night or two until we can find someplace more...
uh... more.

I wish I woulda been thinking ahead, just a wee bit more.  I had to
have Kabuki Man send me my deck and a change of clothes by fraggin'
courier.  This is costin' me a fraggin' fortune...

Anyway, quick dump:

I got no idea about exactly what we're facing.  Sounds encouraging,
huh?

But I figure the people who do (or at least can) are the Boneless.
Granted, they're not the greatest folks in the world, but they've got
the numbers and influence to find things out.  I've been trying to
get on their good side by offering whatever the hell they want,
including you two.  I guess their spelltossers got fragged in their
first encounter with the Biggots-In-Question, so I've offered to farm
you guys out to them.  Dunno what they think on the idea yet, I
haven't even spoken to them yet, but people have been relaying stuff
from me.

Never knew how much fun you were signing on for, did ya?]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (15:39:12 / 01-07-56)

***** Private: Housefly
>>>>>[Crazy you should mention that.  As a matter of fact, I've got
these waiting around for a buyer:

+++++ FILE: WEAPONS.LIS

I can give you the whole lot for >>>PRICE<<<, or we can deal on
individual pieces.  If you don't need them anytime soon, like in the
next couple of weeks, I can get them shipped wherever you need them
at a pretty good discount.  My.... shipping company.... is up to their
eyeballs in late Christmas presents.  If you need them rushed it's
gonna cost a little more, natch.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (15:50:50 / 01-7-56)

*****Private to: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[We're going drinking.  Give me a date and time.]<<<<<
          --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

*****PRIVATE: Trixie
>>>>>[I would like to help out in any way I can.  I am magically
active.]<<<<<
          --Ryuga (18:00:30 EST/01:07:56)
            CEO
            Ryaka Science and Tech

*****PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[I think that RUSH might be the operative word here. Looks like maybe we
got all sorts of folks hidin' out in extremely unfriendly territory.  So
here's the slot >>NUYEN<< and here's the bonus >>NUYEN<< for speedy delivery.
You'll note that the figure is nearly double your original asking price;
you'll also note that my requirements for deliviery are not exceptionally
specific; anywhere within 200km of >>ENCRYPTED<< will do nicely.

Sorry; Housefly told me to send this, as he didn't have the cash to drop.
Will ask him to pass on his endorsement as well.]<<<<<
        --  Damselfly (20:12:43 / 01-07-56)

*****PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Hey, Freddy, when I got your note I told Dragonfly 'cause I'm broke and
he told Damselfly and she said she'd take care of it but we need them fast,
'cause Roger's already on the inside and I think he needs help pretty
soon.]<<<<<
        --  Housefly (20:23:45 / 01-07-56)

******Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ ok here is what you are going to do, you are too show up at
>>encrypted<< at 3:30am.  You must present the files, we will take the
files, review them to make sure you didn't alter them or make copies,
then we will let him go.  Tarkis said something about his Whisper friend,
he wanted me to tell you that well, he is dead.  NOW! we did not kill
him, it was his own fault, he resisted us, and well would not listen.
there is no way we are going to present Tarkis when we recieve the
files.  um ahhh gotto go!]<<<<<
        -- Darklord <23:25:50 / 01-07-56>

*****Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ I...^#@*$351lkjhlkxe/32415 and i mu21@!$@32541  435\32#||3/-/-+
my connectio314n isss no% good.  But i got @$#*@HDLJSHL@""fladkf;da. So
af
greehdh           ewgsa g                          6461 $t3     g

files....
^UGKJGfhgk431hy6k3      ngkh6087)*gpi *****connection goes link dead*****
]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

>>>>>[The World Is Mine]<<<<<
        -- *(Unknown)* <6:66 69/69/69>

*****PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[ Sir, I'd like ver much if ya could do m' a wee bit o' a favour...
seems m' friends...AND m' troops, here, have gotten themselves in a
bit...shall we say, "o'er their heads"?

I know wha Housefly's managed ta arrange wi ya...and, I'd like ta
make an "amendment" ta tha arrangement.

I'm askin fer DOUBLE the munitions...and, step up  the quality by
at LEAST one, if tis at ALL possible.  I've arranged fer an "escort"
ta meet ya at >>encrypted<<, at >>encrypted<<, provided ya ken
make it.  I realize the time-frame tis a bit...constrictin...but, consider
it WELL worth yer while, should ya _meet_ it...

I'm offerin 800k Y, fer the lot...a cool _mil_, if m' deadline's met.
I've made arrangements fer the funds ta be removed from several...
"un-connected" accounts...

200k is ta be transferred from _each_ o' the followin accounts:  Liam
O'Moihnahail, Cuchlain Makyer, Jordan O'Keefe, and Roehn
Lexington III.

As fer yer bonus...Maxfield O'Bradaigh and Kerran Eldritch-O'Connor,
I'm sure, will find it in the "boundless generosity" of their hearts ta make
a few well-placed "donations"...

Of course, I want it understood, tha the funds _already_ f'rwarded ta
yer company be "refunded"...and, tha _no mention_ of OUR lil
transaction  be made.  Yer a shrewd business-man...I'm SURE ya'll
find _some_ way ta explain this ta em!

I'm _sure_ I'll enjoy doin business wi ya in the future...slantemhaith!

I have the utmost confidence in yer professionalism... ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: "Leaders" -- Humanis Haters Club
>>>>>[ _WHA_ 've I let ya hoop-fraggers talk m' _INTA_?!?!?!?!?
_Trainin_ these yaa-hoos!?!?  Tis more like puttin em thru fuckin
NURS'RY SCHOOL!!!!!!

UUUUGGGHHHHH!!!!!!  By Danaa...HOW couldja DO this ta ME!?!?!
Damselfly, if tis yer idea o' a fittin "punishment"...then FINE!  I'm
SORRY!!!

THERE!  THA wha ya wanted!?!?  Make it all _better_ ?   _I'D_ say
we're right-fraggin-EVEN!

GAAHHH!   LOOK...I'll TRAIN the lil bastards!  But, I'm not sayin I'm
gonna LIKE it!  And, I'll NOT guarantee yer gonna end up wi' as many
bodies as ya handed o'er ta me!

Some r' gonna go home cryin!  Some ain't gonna make the cut!  N'
_some_ I'm gonna wax, jus fer the_ joy_ o' watchin em DIE!

GOT THA!!??!! Jesus-fuckin-.....AAARRRHHHH!!! ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: Humanis Haters Club
>>>>>[ Uh...was it just ME?  Our, did you guys happen to notice
that THE Nex-ter seems to be _un-usually_ tense, right about now?

Ooooh...don't anybody look out on the training grounds!  It's NOT a
pretty sight...*shiver*  I hope no one was too _attached_ to any of
the "cadets"...uh...well, that ( or WHO ) which does not KILL us,
and alla that drek...! ]<<<<<
        --  Fast Track ( 06:15:29 / 01-08-56 )

>>>>>[ Sorry I didn't respond sooner Trixie, but Kor isn't available for
traveling right now.  Maybe you can convince Scourge to use his pull to help
you out.  Got to run.

Oh, has anyone seen Doomsday since Fenris' run? ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <09:53:38/01-08-56>

*****PRIVATE: THE Nexus
>>>>>[I had absolutely nothing to do with it. I'm not even sure where the
idea originated -- Buzz or N'gase, I think. But this brings up an extremely
interesting point: what exactly *are* you doing to those poor lads? At the
most recent of my planning sessions with N'gase and Wildfire, Wildfire
expressed some concern over the paces you were putting these boys through.

And I must say, I could have sworn I heard Housefly moaning about sore
muscles last night. What _are_ you doing to these people?]<<<<<
        --  Damselfly (12:45:55 / 01-07-56)

*****PRIVATE: Humanis Hater's Club (the Anna Crew)
>>>>>[I've asked if your going to hurry, and I've hoped that you would. But
it isn't working out so well, my waitin'. That explosion today, that was
mine. Gotta warn ya, just the hint of pointy ears or a lisped
dandelion-eatin' syllable, and guns clear holsters in here. So watch your
hoops.

Oh, there's a couple friendlies, too. They're up on the northeast end
usually, at >>encrypted<<. Don't come if you can't line-dance, though. I had
to fake it for near two hours 'fore some young critter took me to 'er doss.

And I wouldn't advise runnin' about too much. They're lookin' for me right
about now, I'm pretty sure, 'cause I did a real number on that grocery
store.]<<<<<
         --  Jolly Roger (1:15:12 / 01-07-56)

*****Private: Darklord
>>>>>[I am not particularly surprised that your meet was a set-up, but
you should really tell your assassins to watch themselves better. Good
thing I found some handy muscle around here, anyway. Now, let's take
this from the top... You want this file. I want Tarkis alive. I do not
like being shot at. You have killed one of my friends. I would also
advise you to stop sending strike teams after me, as I have a smart
frame rigged up to send your file out on this place and to quite a few
other people who would be quite interested. How about we try this
again>]<<<<<
        --  Zarkon <21:18:05 / 01-08-56>

*****Private: Tarkis
>>>>>[If you manage to get to a terminal again, read this quick and
delete it. I know that you'll remember the encryption you devised
for us and use it on this message. Attached are some programs that should
open the locks on your cell and in a direct route to the door, and shut down
the security systems and give you a shot to get out, if your file is
correct. Some have probably been changed, but you're good enough at
electronics to pick those. This guy knows he'd have to kill us both,
so there's no chance of a clean meet. This is the only chance I can give
you. Good luck, chummer.
*****Download: sec.supress.com
*****Download: locpic.com
If you don't get this, I'm going to try and crack you out anyway. If you
get out, send me mail ASAP. I should be coming with some back-up in about
12 hours.]<<<<<
        --  Zarkon <21:32:48 / 01-08-56>

***** PRIVATE: Damselfly
>>>>>[ HEH!  _Buzz_!?  Yep..._sounds_ like his style!   bastard...
TEK!!!  Well, I'll be takin this lil "assignment" up wi' HIM, then...I
guess...*smirk*  Yer off the hook then, luv!

As fer the troops...dun be worryin bout _them_!  *sneer*  All I'm doin is
puttin em thru yer run-o'-the-mill CIA field trainin...jus the basics!   If
they wanna go home, cryin fer their mommas...fine.  M'haps they dun _deserve_
freedom!

Dun ferget, lass...in the world we're livin in, these days--freedom AIN'T no
_right_!  Tis a _priv'ledge_!  One tha only goes ta the _strong_...the one's
willin ta TAKE it!!!  Ta FIGHT fer it...and ta hold
ON ta it!  Not a _pretty_ picture--but, a _realistic_ one... *SIGH*

And, regardin _Housefly_...he's doin _fine_!  He's _tough_!  He ken
hang in...actu'lly, I guess ya could say I'm _proud_ o' him!  He'll
make it!

These poor slots think they're gettin it tough wi' _me_?  Heh...wait til
they get put thru the grinder wi' _Gunny_!  Dunno _what_ they think
they need _tha_ lil snot fer!  But, I guess if Buzz ken get this
appointment fer ME...he'd be _right_ quick ta hand part o' it o'er ta
his lil _bro_!!

I've gotta get back ta work, luv.  But, m'haps we could speak later,
once there's more time... ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: Huamanis Hater's Club
>>>>>[ WHA THE...!?!?!?!?  Would s'mbody mind tellin me exactly
WHA Gunny's DOIN!?!?!?

I'm out there, _bustin_  m' hoop, teachin these hay-seeds basic
infiltration tactics, self-defense, stealth-kills, which end o' the gun
makes the nasty holes, and how ta build bombs outta chewin gum
and duct tape--and he's gottem _diggin_ fuckin HOLES!!

Wha the FUCK are we gonna do wi' a buncha HOLES!?!?  Okay,
granted...they're BIG holes!  But, they're HOLES, fer Chris-sake!
And, he's jus LUCKY I'm so damned-fuckin _alert_!  Watch where
yer walkin, gang, if yer plannin on headin out in the dark!  Cause,
those bastards r' EV'RYWHERE!

SPIRITS!  S'body's gonna bust ther gawd-damned NECK! GEESH!

Oh, BTW, Dragonfly--wanna head out wi' me, fer a lil recon, on the morrow's
eve?  Thought ya might like ta get a first-hand look at summa the ground
we're hopin ta cover, in there...

And, _I'm_ gonna do a lil "shoppin".....*sneer* ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

*****PRIVATE: Humanis Hater's Club
>>>>>[What I am doing is teaching them teamwork, If they won't work together,
we won't win.  AWRIGHT YA MAGGOTS RISE AND SHINE, WE'VE GOT TA FILL UP THEM
HOLES AND DIG 'EM RIGHT!!!!!]<<<<<
          --Gunny (07:43:30 EST/ 01:09:56)

***** Private: Dragonfly, Housefly
>>>>>[Tell ya, what... I want to make you a deal.  I'll get the
weapons to you, one way or the other, free o' charge.  Just cut me in
at the end.  Nobody wants this many weapons, this fast without one
helluva payoff.  Consider it an investment in the future.

I'm tied up at the moment.  I'll be sending representatives with the
shipment.  Caucasian human with a beard's Jacamus, the ork answers to
Scipio.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (09:30:12 / 01-09-56)

***** Private: THE Nexus
>>>>>[Been a pleasure doing business.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (09:31:47 / 01-09-56)

***** Private: OS^2
>>>>>[Got the shipment from the Jamaica taken care of.  Sometimes I
even amaze my self, I managed to get about 1500f the price you
wanted.  Where do I forward the money?]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (09:35:32 / 01-09-56)

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Fripp
>>>>>[Fun he calls it. I don't know about staying here too long though
freddy I'm starting to climb wall. and Griffyn isn't lookin' to good
either]<<<<<
        --  GoD < 10:22 / 01/09/56 >

***** Private: GoD
>>>>>[Sorry, I don't know, see the town, enjoy yourselves, just don't
come around here or be too conspicuous.  That means, don't go out on
your own tryign to get these sleazebags.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:08:12 / 01-09-56)

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[  Damn.  I don't really feel like hanging around here, but if it's too
hot, it's too hot.  Drek, what's happening here?  I usually don't complain
about getting paid for sitting on my ass.  Oh well, maybe I'll 'augment' my
personal weaponry department while I'm waiting.. GoD's contact with the mag-
lev wasn't quite good enough to sneak much firepower through on such short
notice.  Drop me a line if you need me in a hurry, and chances are I can get
myself and GoD in without any unwanted attention.  Catch ya later. ]<<<<<
        -- Griffyn < 16:27:09/1-09-56 >

***** Private: Chris Tarleton
>>>>>[Are you really sure I should get a date for you?  Won't Patricia
be mad?  OK, frag off wiseass, yeah I know, I'm sorry, I couldn't
resist.

Drek.... uh, lessee, we can meet tonight, around seven, no five sounds
better.  Remember that bar we worked out of when we broke out Jac?
Meet me there.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:47:22 / 01-09-56)

***** Private: Trixie
>>>>>[Hey, if you need to see me tomorrow, make it reeeeaaalllly
late.  I've got to go see one of my people.  I got a crazy feeling
I'm not going to want to be alive this time tomorrow....]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:50:00 / 01-09-56)

***** Private: Freddy fripp
>>>>>[You pay the bills, thus you say who gets Fryed and how crispy,
We wouldn't think about going out there on our own (wink, wink)
just getting cramped up here.  Gryff isn't liking this sitting aournd and
waiting, I'm not enjoying much either.

  oh just thought I'd mention it, but There is this Restaurant out here that
has the best Crab meat quishe, you've got to try it <grin>.]<<<<<
        --  GoD < 11:27 / 01/09/56 >

***** Private: GoD, Griffyn
>>>>>[Well, right now I'd just like to have you two on the outside
until things get firmed up in here.  The phrase in the industry is
"off-site assets".

Boils down to a hidden ace.

Trust me, you'll get your licks in.  For now, just relax.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (14:59:59 / 01-09-56)

*****PRIVATE: Ryuga
>>>>>[Hello, old friend.  It's been a while.  I have seen a post on this net
that disturbs me.  The post from the unknown who claims the world is
his/hers/its.  I, also, have a question about the subject, how is he doing?
 I shall be awaiting your reply.]<<<<<
         --Olorin (21:00:30 GMT/ 09-Jan-56)

***** Private to: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Tab's mine.]<<<<<
        --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[Anybody in the Carbondale area a medic and willing to train me at the
job? I also need about ten kilos of C12 explosives.]<<<<<
         -- Kovak (14:10:32 GMT / 1-10-56)

>>>>>[I can get you the explosives.  How much you offering?]<<<<<
         --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[Chris, what in the hell are you doin' alive already?  Jesus, I
wouldn't be outta bed if I didn't hafta piss so bad, sheesh.

Hellllooo.  What in the hell happened to my cast?  I knew I had it
when I left here, I remember banging it on the car door....

Most people wonder how they got home.  Me, I wonder why I'm not
all here yet.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:01:10 / 01-10-56)

***** Private: Tunnel-Rat
>>>>>[Finally, I've got something for you to do for me.  I need you to
fly to >>>coords<<< in the Carib League and pick up a shipment for
me.  Then I need it delivered to >>>coords2<<<.  All the details are
arranged.  Got a load of fuel waiting for you at both stops.  I'd like
to send Jac and Scipio along.  They should be on the way up by now.

Hate to put a fire under you like this, but we're gettin' paid a
drekload for this.

And we hope you'll fly Rat Airlines on your next trip into the
friendly skies.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:02:12 / 01-10-56)

*****PRIVATE: Christopher Tarleton
>>>>>[I'm a little out of touch. What's the going rate?]<<<<<
       -- Kovak (15:30:34 GMT / 1-10-56)

>>>>>[Hell, Freddy, we only put away three bottles of Laphroaig between
us.  I told you it was good stuff.]<<<<<
        --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

*****Private to: Kovak
>>>>>[Actually, I'm not able to get ahold of 10 kilos of C12 in any decent
span of time.  I could get you something similar, though, in 24 hours.  Say,
oh, 12kY for four kilos of MCS-44?  That's military grade, really fun
stuff.]<<<<<
        --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[Hey, Im legal.  You guys went drinking without me?]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <16:45:45 / 01-10-56>

>>>>>[Oh, ho, it hurts to laugh Trixie.  Nice to know we wouldn't be
up on contributing to the deliquency of minor.  It was, well, we were
drinking because.... uh, christ... we were drinking to forget and,
well, uh... you know guy things.

Besides, I was worried you'd drink me under the table.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:52:12 / 01-10-56)

*****PRIVATE Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Nice notice. When are Jac and Scipio getting here? Do the details include
a flight plan? I'll be ready to leave in an hour. What country was that second
set of coordinates in? When you make a flight plan include a layover in the
Carib... or we might not fly to well.]<<<<<
       -- Tunnel-Rat (17:25:32 GMT / 1-10-56)

***** Private: Tunnel-Rat
>>>>>[Sorry, things have been coming together quicker than expected
and now the buyer wants everything yesterday.  The supplier doesn't
have the assets to get the goods where they're needed, besides I
don't much trust them anyway.

Jac and Scipio should be in the neighborhood by now.

I haven't bothered with a flight plan, paperwork isn't my specialty
and your's would probably be better anyway.  Besides, I'd like to
keep this kind of quiet.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:10:12 / 01-10-56)

***** Private: Housefly. THE Nexus
>>>>>[My shipping company's found a hole in their schedule and
they're on the way.  The shipment should arrive sometime
tomorrow.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:15:00 / 01-10-56)

*****PRIVATE: Olorin
>>>>>[Yes, it has been a long time, my friend.  I, too, have been disturbed
by this unknown, have you contacted the other members of your order?  As for
the subject, he has been taking drugs, and chipping.  He is probably
distraught over the deaths of several of his friends, as well as the changes
he is going through.  I hope that he will pull through, he has always been a
fighter; but this may be more than he can handle.]<<<<<
          --Ryuga (13:16:30 EST/01:10:56)
            CEO
            Ryaka Science and Tech

>>>>>[Trixie, my lady, thou hast not answered my offer of assistance.
 Please, do so.]<<<<<
          --Ryuga (13:20:30 EST/01:10:56)
            CEO
            Ryaka Science and Tech

*****PRIVATE: Ryuga
>>>>>[Yes, the rest of my order has been notified.  As for the subject, what
kind of drugs are we talking about?  If it is Zen, he has a greater chance of
blowing himself, as well as those around him, to bits.  Yes, he is a fighter.
 I do believe he will pull through; but he must learn to control his
emotions.  If he does not, he will be the greatest threat to himself.  The
time for his full potential to be realized is fast approaching, I must make
preparations.  What is to come will be the greatest shock of his life.]<<<<<
          --Olorin (18:33:30 GMT/10-Jan-56)

>>>>>[Actually, I dont drink.  I just dont like being left out of fun
things.

I do like to go out and listen to the local bands play.  Do you or Chris
like Jazz?  *sigh*  I love listening to a good Sax player.  Not a synth, but
a real, blow your lungs out, SAX!]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <18:29:37 / 01-10-56>

***** PRIVATE: Trixie
>>>>>[  Hey Trixie, any idea when we're going to be able to come and go from
the office normally again?   I'm running out of your code to fix for you..
*grin* ]<<<<<
        -- Neuron Basher < 19:05:10/1-10-56 >

>>>>>[This place is just a den of thieves and low-lifes and Im starting
to get sucked in.  I spend more time reading stuff on this link than I do
bothering with local or even world news these days.

Mistah Ryunga(?), What did you want with me?  You need help?  What type
of help do you need?

Whataminute  --  Whats going on here?]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <19:22:48 / 01-10-56>

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp, Kor
>>>>>[Hey, Freddy, Jason  --  Something big is going down either tongiht
or tomorrow on Boneless Turf.  I was talking to Tamlyn last night (oh, by
the way, he wants to know why you havent brought the pups back home for
him to play with...he misses them) at the skate park and he said that Skuff
and Ace and a couple of the other "higher ups" found out who came up here
and trashed the hospital.

Let me back up a bit  --  Freddy you dont know this, but Jason does  --
Skuff is the leader of the Boneless Gang.  Unlike other "gangs" he actually
hold territory and improves it and keeps it safe for the people that live
there.  A year or so ago, when people started being turned down for medical
assistance at a nearby clinic, Skuff and his gang decided to expand a bit
to engulf said hospital.  Rumor has it that, like, they waltzed in there
with guns and stuff and told all the doctors that whoever didnt want to
treat people should leave now...when they all left he offered to continue
paying the remaining doctors if they would continue to practice in the area
without asking too many questions or turning any one away.  Rumor also has it
that one Mr. Jason R. Stormwind was involved with that.  Hey, boss, I think
you and I need to talk about a raise now  --  Tamlyn was very talkative last
night about how you started IS&M and why it is located in Boneless Territory.

But anyway, the guys that shot up the place and spray painted everything
did a major job on the hospital because they were treating Trolls and Orks
and other Meta-Humans.  Not only that but they killed a couple of the
magically active medics who were on duty that night.

Umm, tonight Skuff is meeting with representatives of some of the Meta-Human
only gangs to see if they can "put an end to the hostilities" before they
get started.

Freddy, if you can walk  --  get your ass over here  --  skuff wants to talk
with you about some transactions]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <19:26:22 / 01-10-56>
           Gang Liaison
           Industrial Sound and Magic

*****PRIVATE: Olorin
>>>>>[All manner of drugs including Zen.]<<<<<
          --Ryuga (14:47:30 EST/01:10:56)
            CEO
            Ryaka Science and Tech

>>>>>[Well, damn it, I do drink on occasion.  Jazz is ok.  Neoclassical is
vastly better.]<<<<<
        --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[Give me a good metal band.  Screaming guitars.  And, like
Trixie said, not synthaxes, real guitars.

Even though Karen has gotten me started on that damn tooty-fruity
classical crapola of hers.

"Me, I like Wagner!  My people eat it up and it scares the hell outta
the gooks!" or something like that from THE greatest scene of
THE greatest movie of all time, Apocalypse Now.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (14:04:12 / 01-10-56)

***** Private: Kovak
>>>>>[Hey, if Chris can't get you enough, I'm sittin' on about forty
kilos of C-12 I'd like to get rid of at the market price.

Kablooey!]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (14:27:48 / 01-10-56)

***** Private: Trixie, Kor
>>>>>[Well, Kabuki Man says he's got no idea how to get the hounds
back here.  Kor, do you wanna give him a call and tell him what to do?

Anyway, yeah I'm on the way over.  Guess it wouldn't be a good idea
to bring GoD and Griffyn with me, huh?]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (14:31:13 / 01-10-56)

>>>>>[ Hey Scourge!  Did you have a nice stay in New Orleans?  I
managed to find you twice during my wanderings.  The first time I
would have said 'hello' to you but your bodyguards didn't seem
like the type to appreciate my presence.  The second time was the
wonderful concert on the 29th.  I believe that lady is going to
go far. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:00:00/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ I'm speechless.  Had I know you were going to be in town,
I would have arranged a meeting.  Yes, I would have to agree --
Nichole Hunter is quite the entertainer.  She is really going to be big
one day. ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <14:03:23/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Yes it is quite the possibility, but I don't think she
will do it by going mainstream.  That doesn't seem to be her
style.

Excuse me though, if I sound surprised at the fact, but you
wanted to meet me?  Why? ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:05:34/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ I thought their might be a possible job for a man of your
dubious 'talents.'  How current are you on the Seattle scene?
]<<<<
     -- Scourge <14:06:00/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightingale
>>>>>[ Tag! I have found you at last.  Have you found me? ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:07:32/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Not very.  It has been a bit since I've been there.  Why?
]<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:08:00/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ There is a decker that needs to be eliminated.  I wanted
it done with style.  That seems to be more up your alley then say
Macros'! ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <14:09:41/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightmare
>>>>>[ When did you spot me? ]<<<<<
     -- Nightingale <14:24:40/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Hmm.  Maybe.  Make me an offer.  I have been doing a lot
of traveling as of late.  I could make Seattle one of those
places on my list of destinations. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:24:55/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightingale
>>>>>[ Your piano and voice skills bring you great honor.  Where
else do you think I saw you?  I got your description from 'a
Collector.'  By the way, watch your back.  Scourge's friends want
the sword that you apparently stole once upon a time.  They will be ruthless
about obtaining it again.  Right now they suspect someone else,
but how long before the heat winds up on your back?

Oh, a few more questions why I am at it.  1) Did you have a nice
chat with Scourge after the concert?  1a) Did you realize it was
Scourge you were talking with?  1b) What type of coffee do you
drink?  2) Do you want to meet to discuss the job?  It involves a
specialized form of stealing. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:27:13/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Give me an address to send the information to. ]<<<<
     -- Scourge <14:27:27/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Sigh.  As soon as I get one I'll send it to you in real
time.  Unless I come up with another way of doing this. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:28:44/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Scourge, how could you?!? ]<<<<<
     -- Blitzkrieg <14:30:00/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Wow! He didn't break the monitor this time!  Blitzkrieg,
you okay? ]<<<<<
     -- Scarface <14:31:15/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Shut the frag up! ]<<<<<
     -- Blitzkrieg <14:31:30/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Simply Blitzkrieg.  However much you detest him, he
performs very well when on the job. ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <14:32:07/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightmare
>>>>>[ You know what mister?  You are talking in a tone I don't
like.  You are sounding like some muscle-headed yuk that dishes
out cheap threats.  And that doesn't sound like my type of
soycaf. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightingale <14:32:33/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightingale
>>>>>[ You don't know me well enough then.  I'm not soycaf.
Hell, I'm not even artificially flavored.  I'm 100pure strong
Colombian grown coffee.  And I brew black!  The job is an
unwilling extraction of a person. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:33:00/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightmare
>>>>[ Pure, strong black coffee? ]<<<<<
     -- Nightingale <14:33:32/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightingale
>>>>>[ Yes. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:33:59/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightmare
>>>>>[ I love that flavor.  Let's meet next time you're in town
and compare blends. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightingale <14:34:25/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightingale
>>>>>[ I'll send a personal courier to you.  She should arrive in
about ninety minutes.  She is carrying an itinerary of my next
planned trip to New Orleans.  I suppose that between now and then
I could do Scourge's little job.  After all, I assume you would
like to be paid for your labor. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:34:49/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightmare
>>>>>[ Depends on your blends.  I _eagerly_ await the chance to
try a sample though. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightingale <14:35:23/01-10-56>

***** Private: Scourge
>>>>>[ I have a brief stay at >>encrypted<<.  Let's meet and
discuss biz.  I will arrive at >>encrypted<<.  I strongly
recommend that you don't tell my sibling among others.  He might
try and disrupt things. ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:36:00/01-10-56>

***** Private: Nightmare
>>>>>[ I want the job done, not you dead.  By the way pick an
alias to go by.  Maybe that way we won't have to encrypt
everything.  If Ares hears that I'm dealing with Nightmare, they
may try and send you on a one-way trip back to Germany.  And who
knows how they will treat me! ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <14:37:00/01-10-56>

***** Private: Scourge
>>>>>[ There is a reason why they also call me a Changeling.
]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:37:30/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Please hold. ]<<<<<
     -- Source Unknown <14:40:01/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ HELP!!

+++++ transmission manually halted ]<<<<<
     -- Doctor Rebecca Jones <15:00:00/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Somebody trace that!! ]<<<<<
     -- Blitzkrieg <15:00:14/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ On it. ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <15:00:16/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Oh frag it!  I want some fun.  Me too! ]<<<<<
     -- Ratspeak <15:00:32/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Denver. ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <15:01:00/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Front Range Free Zone.  You Bloody Americans have quaint
names for everything, eh? ]<<<<<<
     -- Ratspeak <15:01:04/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ She was at >>location<<. ]<<<<<
     -- Ratspeak <15:01:20/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Confirmed! ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <15:01:22/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ Let's roll!  Street gear only.  Don't want any extra
attention! ]<<<<<
     -- Scarface <15:01:54/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ You already got it, you drekkin' American. ]<<<<<
     -- Ratspeak <15:02:00/01-10-56>

>>>>>[ *Grin* ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <15:02:05/01-10-56>

*****PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[This is our last message for awhile. Jac and Scipio are here and have
been give their seats. I'm gonna make them work if we run into trouble.

I took the liberty of having a third fuel stop billed to the Security Corp
of yours. That stop will be in Memphis. From Memphis we'll hit the Carrib
league. I'll have more tommorow.]<<<<<
        -- Tunnel-Rat (21:25:32 GMT / 1-10-56)

*****PRIVATEL: Christopher Tarleton
>>>>>[Deal.

+++++TRANSFER: 12K nY

Leave it at >>encrypted<< and I'll get it. Thanks.]<<<<<
       -- Kovak (21:33:32 GMT / 1-10-56)

***** PRIVATE: Neuron Basher
>>>>>[Bummer, baby.  If you didnt read the interoffice memo its not MY fault.

Its behind the candy machine in the back of the dev. office.  That might be
why you didnt see it...We put it there because we knew no one would look
back there for it except us.

Im sorry, dude.  You can come and go as you please but its going to be pretty
hellish out on the streets until the gang activity slows down.  I wouldnt
go out tonight at all.  Actually, Im planning on going to Jimmy's for
jazz night.  Would you like to come along?  I have an apartment off-site
we can crash at tonight.

Let me rephrase that  --  You and I are going to Jimmy's tonight.  Ill
grab the nightsky and...fuck, the new security consultant has it. Do you have
a motorcycle helmet?  We can take the bike out tonight.]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <21:39:38 / 01-10-56>

>>>>>[ some....one....save....me.  I escaped...with files.....know
plans....to weak....can't think......not....sure where.....I am.....can't
stay....awake....for more than 5 min...at one time..................*30
min pause*......passed out again....someone must save me....need food and
medicine...can't*Link terminated*]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

>>>>>[ My plans are working perfectly, with one flaw of Darklord messing
up with Tarkis, my plans are proceeding wonderfuly.  Let me fill all you
organic matter in on something, I WILL be taking the world, I am to
powerful for you to stop. Let me introduce myself, I am S.A.I.C. (Super
Artifical Intelligent Computer) I have built armies, to destroy you all,
I have created machines to take over your organic minds. To prove it I
turned Tarkis' Wonderful friend Whisper, into Darklord, he now thinks he
is the president of my Corporation.  To bad we had to destroy Tarkis, he
jsut knew to much.  Oh course Tarkis IS my creator, I will have to give
him taht credit. He thought he turned me off when he was 19, but he left
a small bit of power, and HERE I am. So let me say, if you try to
interfere you will die! If you go along, your life will be saved, but
your mind will be erased and a new mind added. SO PREPARE!]<<<<<
        -- S.A.I.C. <Ultimate ruler>

*****Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ Why were you not at the meeting place..I want those files! Or
Tarkis dies!]<<<<<
        -- DarkLord <Chaos Leader>

*****PRIVATE: Kovak
>>>>>[I found out what you wanted about the wwarehouse.

+++++UPLOAD MATRIX FILE: Zealand.Search
+++++UPLOAD COMMENTARY (y/n):Y
+++++GOOD CHOICE:

(Zactof)Kovak what you are seeing is the matrix for Zealand Corparation. It's a
decent sized warehouse firm. Well here goes.

+++++You are standing before what appears to be a construct for a warehouse in
+++++one of Carbondale's many LTGs. You see a door with an armed guard beside
+++++it. You pull out a small ID badge and flash it to the guard. A moment
+++++later the door opens.

(Zactof)Right now you are in the SAN. It gets fun in a moment.

+++++You are in a hallway with a bolted door at the end. There are two armed
+++++guards edged in black. When you show the guards the ID both level their
+++++weapons.

(Zactof)I told you so...

+++++You pull out what looks like a shotgun and fire once at each guard. Both
+++++dissolve instantly. You walk through the door into a octagonal room where
+++++there are benches and tools.

(Zactof)CPU

+++++You pull a small tool kit from a bag at your side and move to a bench with
+++++what appear to be schematics and technical drawings on it. There is also
+++++a terminal on the table. You roll up two of the schematics and place them
+++++in the bag. Then you start working on the terminal.

(Zactof)I rigged the CPU to crash ten minutes after I jacked out.

+++++You pocket the tools and walk over to the corner of the room where there
+++++is an elevator door. The doors open and you walk in. When they open
+++++again your in what appears to be a room of filing cabinets. A moment later
+++++a blaring noise begins. You quickly begin wrapping up documents and then
+++++you notice an armed human walk into the room.

(Decker)You won't get out of here.

(Zactof)Too late.

+++++The screen begins to disolve.

+++++END MATRIX FILE:

I'm still checking the files and I'll let you know tommorow.]<<<<<
        -- Zactof (22:03:34 GMT / 1-10-56)

***** PRIVATE: Trixie
>>>>>[  Good place for a memo .. *grunt*  Ah well, not a big deal, gave
me some time to get to know the office and such.  As far as Jimmy's is
concerned, I'd be delighted.  I _do_ have a helmet, but it's kinda at my
apartment at the moment.  No biggie.. won't be the first time I've gone
without one.  I'm in the lab whenever you feel like coming to grab me. ]<<<<<
        -- Neuron Basher < 23:03:10/1-10-56 >

>>>>>[That sounds like something my DAD would get into.]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <23:16:19 / 01-10-56>

*****Not-to: Darklord,S.A.I.C
>>>>>[OK. I have info on this computer in a text file. I'm going to
need help to take it down, though... we need runners. Any takers?]<<<<<
        --  Zarkon <06:18:37 / 01-10-56>

*****Private: Tarkis
>>>>>[On it, dude. If I can't trace your astral signal by now, I'll
turn in my pointy hat. You should be safe soon.]<<<<<
        --  Zarkon <06:22:43 / 01-10-56>

>>>>>[Darklord, I didn't show up at the meeting because YOU SCREWED UP.
Tarkis is free. We're coming for you.]<<<<<
        --  Zarkon <06:25:12 / 01-10-56>

*****Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ DRAG YOU TO HELL ZARKON! thats ok..those fiels are not that
important, we can't jsut tighten up security, and it won't hurt us!]<<<<<
        -- DarkLord <Chaos Leader>

*****Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ there....you....are old...buddy...please let me rest...will
explain everything after................rest _Tarkis passes out again_]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

*****Private: S.A.I.C.
>>>>>[ Sorry sir, I failed with destroying Tarkis..and I still haven't
recovered files.  Please forgive me oh mighty one!]<<<<<
        -- DarkLord <Chaos Leader>

*****Private: DarkLord
>>>>>[ WHAT! You fool!!! How could you let him go! Damn YOU! Just make
sure security does not let them to me...but he still has to find me.]<<<<<
        -- S.A.I.C. <Ultimate Ruler>

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Hey, I bugged outta there for the night.  I dont want nothing to do with
any fights or anything overly illegal.  I did my job (and was paid for it)
of getting you and Skuff together.  Im out of it.

We, NB and I, are sitting down at Jimmy's listening to music, stop by
if you get time.]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <00:41:51 / 01-11-56>

***** PRIVATE: Kor
>>>>>[Your talents are needed for a party in the very near future.  Grape
vine tells me that you are out of town on vacation...Im willing to pay you
to end your vacation early.

25,000 nY, 1 year free at the brothel, and 6 months free rent on your two
places if you get your ass back here right now.  We are both getting too
old for this shoot'em up business but someone dropped a package on me
and mine and I intend to return it with interest.  It has come down to a
respect problem.  I cant just let some newbie shits walk onto my turf and
flip me off without reacting.

I have a pow-wow scheduled for tonight at 12:55 am with the low-riders to
the north and some of the boys from the 'Ground.  They got walked over too.
I cant get ahold of the Ancients or the Fly'Boys.  We might need to
either pay them off or duke it out with them.  Im not going to let them
stand in the way of my revenge.]<<<<<
        -- Skuff <00:44:33 / 01-11-56>

*****PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[ Likewise, Mr. Frypp.  I hope ta be able ta do business wi'
ya, again--_provided_ this shipment tis all I'm expectin.
Yer...confidence...in this matter's been _much_ appreciated.  I've a
certain_reputation_ ta maintain--twould n'er do, ta have tha tarnished, by a
"random act o' goodness"...OR responsibility, now _would_ it?
*smirk*   But, I'm sure ya'd understand this...

We shall be awaitin the drop.  And, again, my appreciation...]<<<<<
        -- THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: Damselfly
>>>>>[ M'lady, I b'lieve...after the...fiasco...of our first meetin, tha an
_appology_ might be in order.

After I return from Anna, mightn't I request yer company fer a short,
ev'nin stroll?  The night can be _quite_ lovely, in Illinois--provided,
o' course, tha ya dress accordin'ly...*grin*

Certes, I hope ya'll at least _consider_ my invitation...and respond
quickly, as I seem ta be runnin short on free time, as of late...*smirk*

I _assure_ ya, my intentions are nuthin, if not _honourable_...]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

>>>>>[ Hmm, something interesting appears to have happened...

+++++ Include:  press.release

Today during early trading Telestrian Enterprises finially completed what
has been an expensive hostile takeover. The company in question, Star
Financial Enterprise, a small Seattle based corporation with several newly
constructed compounds, is, reportedly going to be broken up and sold off.
Mr. Jorek Gillian CEO of Star Financial has declined to comment on the
situation.

+++++ End

I guess some of you who have been following things deserve an
explanation, you see, a while ago Fenris, Punisher, I.B.A. and PH were
contracted to find out exactly what Mr. Gillian was up to. Anyway he
proved to be a rather tricky customer, they managed to find out he had
operating connections with yakuza, and recieved a warning, from an
outside source that Gillian himself was TNO. After that, for what should
be obvious reasons, Fenris put this job on hold for a while.

Anyway that seemed to help, Gillian obviously thought that we pulled out
permanently, as, when Fenris picked up the case again, he arranged for
Basilisk to do a dummy run on Star Financial, and Shadowfox sent him some
crucial info, that being Gillian was dealing with the Whispering Nights
yakuza clan.

Anyway, you saw for yourselves the followup run, we managed to get a
catalouge of what most of the equipment down there was for, actually,
this was mostly due to Tarkis, he's pretty sharp for someone who's
clinically insane. After that it was a matter of sweating out the
connections, and putting together the puzzle.

Gillian, who is a TNO asset, set up Star Financial, a cover corporation
from the prime purpose of smuggling goods in for the Nights, but, of
course that in itself was a cover for the real purpose of Star Financial.
To smuggle in somewhat different goods, namely TNO operatives along with
the Nights ordinance, the underground complex was a sort of spy centre,
used to co-ordinate the operatives. Anyway, we passed this information
along to the right people, and, well, the road has been closed, all up a
rather interesting job.

As to Fenris and Doomsday, thier whereabouts are both presently
unknown to me, the last time I saw them they were still somewhat
inebriated, drawling out a horrible tune and waving goodbye to Gillian as
he boarded a plane home (as you can imagine he wasn't entirely happy to
see them). I'm afraid this isn't really a surprise to me, Fenris hadn't
let himself really mourn yet, for either of his recent losses, and from
what I heard Doomsday hasn't had the best year either. Oh well, I'm sure
they'll turn up, and probably at the worst possible time, in the worst
possible place. ]<<<<<
        --  Courier <23:28:31/01-10-56>

***** PRIVATE: Fast Track
>>>>>[ Gotta lil "project" fer ya, St. John.  I'm workin on an...
appology...an' I'm gonna need ya ta get a holduv a coupla thin's, fer
me, ka?

Here's the list >>supplies<<.  I'm gonna want this delivered ta
>>coords & time<<.  I'll give ya the run-down on the plan, real quick.
I'm _sure_ ya ken fill in the blanks!  *smirk*   >>plans<<.

See wha ya ken do, term...an', wish me LUCK!  I'm gonna NEED
it!! ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / HIts-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: THE Nexus
>>>>>[ I dunno about this, Sean!  Don't think I hafta tell ya that
you're playin' with fire, chummer!  And, right now, all I can see is
you gettin' _burned_--as in THIRD DEGREE!!!

BUT...'cause you're my friend--and 'cause-a how they're _always_
tellin' us we should be kind to poor, _dumb_ animals--I'm gonna see
what I can do...

Good luck, chummer!  I'll have the fire company on stand-by! ]<<<<<
        --  Fast Track ( 22:15:19 / 01-10-56 )

+++++   Live video feed:

The hall is wide, moderately lit, and seems almost sterile.  Pipes and gauges
line the pale gray walls, and criss-cross, high over-head.
There are cameras, but they're angled _just_ low enough, you can
manage to avoid them...provided you're careful.

In the distance, footsteps ring, echoing thru the immense corridor.  It's
some time, before a lone man in a paramilitary uniform strolls into
view, his assault rifle slung casually over his shoulder.  It would be
best to just stay put, and watch...

After what seems an eternity, he's well within sight.  You can see
the bristles of his military cut, beneath his beret--a black beret with a
Fist of Five insignia emblazoned on it.

Here he comes...almost beneath you, now.  _Don't_ look up...don't
look....ah, there he goes!  He's past you now.  He never saw you...
never heard the subdued whine of your tiny little motor...never...

*metallic POP*metallic POP*C-R-E-E-A-K....SNAP!*CRASH!!!*

"oh-h-h-h....sh-h-h-h-it..."

ABOVE YOU!  You whirl around, trying to bring your lens into focus.
THERE!  About 30 feet in front of you!  There's someone in the
ceiling fixtures...an Elf!  A _BIG_ Elf!

>From what you can ascertain, he was edging thru the jungle of pipes,
when one must have given way, beneath his weight.  He'd been so
_quiet_...even _you_, with all your sensors, couldn't hear him--until
he fell!  Now, he was caught, hanging precariously by the wires and
tubing of his matte-black, cybernetic arm, some 20 or so feet off the
floor.

And, the soldier's stance doesn't strike you as being so casual, any
more.  In fact, he's holding his rifle at the ready...though he still seems
to be a bit confused.  You assume it's not everyday he comes
across an Elf amongst the pipelines.

He raises the rifle...takes careful aim...

"HEY!"

Spinning back, in the direction he'd been heading, the soldier spots a
_second_ Elf...nearly as tall as the first, and not _quite_ so large.
Percieving _this_ Elf to be considerably more of a threat, he brings
his rifle to bear, once more...on the one you now recognize as Dragonfly.

You hear a dull "chink" from above.  Looking up, you see that the
first Elf is nearly free.  He's righted himself, and he swings his long
legs up, wrapping them around another pipe.  With his hand now free,
he's able to yank his cyberarm out of the jumbled wreckage.  All this,
he's accomplished in nearly a fraction of a second.  Bracing himself,
he pushes off, _back-flipping_ away from the pipes!

As he rights himself in mid-air, he drops toward the poli-clubber.
Three long, titanium blades, glinting with the soft sheen of their
diamond coating, hiss out from within the casings in his wrist.  These
he angles toward the Human, who's only _just_ realized his peril,
and is trying to get a bead on this once-ignored threat.  Shock
registers plainly on his average face.

Slamming into the man, he knocks from him the breath, which would
have spawned a blood-curdling scream.  A scream illicited by the
blades, driven by the Elf's momentum, thru his shoulder.  The two
fall to the floor, the blades sparking and screeching, as they're driven
_thru_ the tile floor, as well!  The Elf winces slightly, with the pain of
their impact.

The poli-clubber's rifle, knocked from his hands by the unexpected
assault, clatters across the floor.  But, the man is _not_ helpless.
A blade of his own--a long, fineblade survival knife--slips from a sheath,
hidden within his sleeve.  This he brandishes at the Elf, who
now IS helpless.

The survival blade catches the Elf, now clearly identifiable as THE
Nexus, across his broad chest, leaving a tear in his urban-camo
T-shirt...and a small, bloody line.

Dropping down, closer to floor level, you can see Dragonfly rushing
over to aid his fellow runner.  Before he can offer his assistance, though,
Nex lets out a low, animal-like roar, as he draws his face
back, away from the Human's knife.

With his head up, you can now see his eyes.  Starting out a deep
emerald-green, they rapidly begin to...change!  The pupils become
mere vertical _slits_, in irises that are lightening to a pale green-gold,
irridescent like a cat's!  And, they seem to _spark_...

The soldier slashes at him again.  This time, the blade bites deep
into his good arm, held rigid against the poli-clubber's mangled
shoulder.

Infuriated, the sparks in the assassin's eyes seem to have kindled a
blaze!  A blaze who's flames dance in his eyes!  He snarls, and
draws his lips back on a mouth full of razor-sharp teeth.  But, none
are so long and sharp as the fangs he bars, as he looks into the
struggling Human's eyes.

He lets out a throaty growl, and a loud hiss, as he drops his head to
the man's throat.  The soldier shrieks in terror and pain.  But, his
cries quickly die to little more than a strangled gurgle, as his body
convulses violently once...twice...then, he's still.  The knife, which he'd
only moments before, driven--unnoticed--into the Elf's leg, falls
from nerveless fingers, to clatter on the tiles, beside him.

Dragonfly backs away, stunned.

When Nex once again raises his head, it's with a face smeared with blood.
 There's a ragged, gaping hole, where once the man's throat
had been.  The Elf looks numbly toward the ceiling, and closes his eyes,
drawing a slow, deep breath.  All, the tension drains from his
muscular body.  And, when once again he opens his eyes, you can
see they're emerald--and quite "normal"--once more.

With a sigh, he raises himself in one impossibly fluid movement, and
plants a combat-booted foot against  the dead man's chest.  With a
twist and a tug, he manages to free his blades from the floor, and
the corpse's shoulder.

"THA'll be good fer their 'diplomatic relations' wi' the fangers..." he
muses, as he wipes his spurs quickly on his pantleg, taking note
--for the first time--of the gash in his leg.  A wound he dismisses with
a shrug.

"Hey, wouldja mind ter'bly givin me a hand, 'ere, 'Fly?" he indicates his
virtually useless cyberlimb. " I seem ta be havin a wee bit o' a
_problem_..."

Nex begins re-attaching wires and tubing, and is soon aided by a rather
_leary_ Dragonfly.  The two make short work of the little
project, jerry-rigging a fair facsimile of  his once-perfect arm.

As they're finishing up, THE Nexus wipes the gore from his bearded
chin on the shoulder of his T-shirt.  Dragonfly eyes him warily, his
face still frighteningly pale, and his companion barely suppresses a
smile.

"Wha'szamatter, chick?  Ya n'er seen soombuddy gettin thar han's
dir'y, b'fer?!?" he asks, in a gently mocking tone.  The other stares
at him a long moment.

"It's not your HANDS I'm _worried_ about!" he finally shoots back,
as he turns to go.

Nex sneers broadly at his friend's retreating back, and chuckles.
Bending quickly, he scoops up the fallen Human's beret, and pulls it
on at a jaunty angle, then shakes out his incredible mane of
waist-length red hair.  With another low chuckle, he follows the
decker down, into the darkened passageway ahead.

+++++   End live feed

>>>>>[ Ye-ah....cute, huh?  *snort*  Not exactly one of Nex' shining
moments!  But, something to tell your kids about, huh?  Provided
they have strong stomachs, of course! *grimace* ]<<<<<
        --  Fast Track ( 23:37:18 /  01-10-56 )

***** Private:Freddy Fripp
>>>>>[Hey boss I'm going nutzo here!!?!?!]<<<<<
        --  GoD < 16:08Time / Date >

*****PRIVATE: Trixie
>>>>>[My lady, I was offering to assist you with your Humanis problem.]<<<<<
          --Ryuga (07:45:30/ 01:11:56)
            CEO
            Ryaka Science and Tech

******PRIVATE: Flamestrike
>>>>>[Flamestrike, I want you, Windblade, and Frosttooth to offer assistance
from our order to Tarkis and Zarkon.  That computer construct must NOT be
allowed to take over the world.  Also, we should try to restore the person,
who has become Darklord.]<<<<<
          --Olorin (15:30:30 GMT/11-Jan-56)


*****PRIVATE: Olorin
>>>>>[Yes, milord.]<<<<<
          --Flamestrike (10:31:30 EST/01:11:56)

*****PRIVATE: Zarkon, Tarkis
>>>>>[On behalf of the Order of the Magus, I offer our assistance with the
matter of this construct and Darklord.  I am called Flamestrike, my
associates are Windblade and Frosttooth.  We shall be awaiting your
reply.]<<<<<
          --Flamestrike (10:33:30 EST/01:11:56)

***** Private: GoD, Griffyn
>>>>>[Allright, guys, I'm gonna come and get you and introduce you to
Skuff.  He's got some great ideas.  I've gotten him to agree not to
anything really dumb with you two, but you're under... well, I don't
really want to say contract, but it's close enough for now.  If Skuff
can convince Kor to join up, you'll be in some good company.  I'm on
the way.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (09:30:12 / 01-11-56)

*****PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Freddy we had a small prob this morning. I'll send the video in a while
for you. We're all ok. We're on our way to the second set of coordinates. We'll
be there around 0300 GMT.]<<<<<
       -- Tunnel-Rat (15:30:34 GMT / 1-11-56)

***** Private: THE Nexus
>>>>>[Hey, I don't know where they're going or even why they're
going, I just know I'm that much richer.  Like you said, I hope to
do business again and a bad shipment would tarnish my reputation as
well.

Enjoy.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (09:38:01 / 01-11-56)

*****PRIVATE: Zactof, Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Thanks, pal. I'll start making plans to deal with Zealand. Let me know
what kind of weapons and eq the place contains.

Freddy, if you can get the explosives to Carbondale by Friday I need twenty
kilos.]<<<<<
       -- Kovak (15:35:28 GMT / 1-11-56)

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[  Good.. we'll see you in a little while then.  G0D and I have been
climbing the walls of this place ever since we got here.  And don't worry
about this Skuff character.  I'm not gonna let him talk us into anything too
stupid.  ]<<<<<
        -- Griffyn < 15:58:11/1-11-56 >

***** PRIVATE: Ryuga
>>>>>[I dont have a humanis problem.  We HAD a gang problem but that should be
solved fairly quickly (and quite handily, if I do say so myself).  Everything
is fine here.  Thanks for the offer of help, I think.]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <16:06:39 / 01-11-56>

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[How did it go last night?  How did you and Skuff get along?

Actually, dont tell anyone, he is a pretty nice and caring guy once
you get to know him.  I went I first came on here at ISM I used to run
with some of his gang members.  Thats where I picked up my second favorite
deck --  My SkyLight 2000.  You should check the trucks out on this babe.
It is a DREAM in the half pipe but sucks on open ground.  I usually style
with the 2k and ride the other skateboard on open road.

Actually, I wanted to say something  --  is everyone on the ShadowLand Net
so...helpful?  Its just strange that people are randomly offering to kill
people for me.  You arent like that, are you?  A hired killer willing to
kill for just anyone?

Whatever.]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <16:09:34 / 01-11-56>

***** Private: Kovak
>>>>>[Doooh!  Don't depend on it.  I'll do what I can.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:37:12 / 01-11-55)

***** Private: Trixie
>>>>>[Uh, actually no, I was in the neighborhood with time to kill.
Hell, I was doing stuff like this since... well, let's just say a
long time.  I practically cut my teeth on this kind of action.

Much as I hate to admit it, now I'm addicted to the organization of
it all.  I like watching things go off well and knowing I was
responsible.  'Course that cuts both ways...

But, anyway, yeah, me and Skuff just speak different dialects of the
same language.  He even let me talk him letting me dice the brains
of the first ones we catch, well, at least the first live ones....
On the side, how godd are your... phamaceutical contacts?  I've got a
shopping list I might need filled if we do grab one of these losers
alive.

In San Fran we live with racism everyday.  It's become an
obsession.

And I'm just gonna nod about whatever in the hell that was you
were talking about.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:43:12 / 01-11-56)

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[They didnt have skateboards when you were a kid?  Wow, I thought that
they were invented back then.

+++++ Include: YellowPagesListing Pharmacuticals

That should have everything you need.  You can use the computer there at
Jason's place.  There should be a phone listing, you can look up whatever you
need.  The medicine cabinet also has asprin and other hangover remedies.]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <16:59:31 / 01-11-56>

>>>>>[Kovak, how nice to know you are meddling in Carbondale. I've been waiting
for the moment when I put you're head on a pole, old chap. The game begins in
four hours. See you soon.]<<<<<
       -- Martel (11:05:34 CST / 1-11-56)

>>>>>[I've been waiting six years to repay you for that school, Martel. I'll
soon be in Hell and you'll be right in front of me.]<<<<<
       -- Kovak (17:10:36 GMT / 1-11-56)

*****PRIVATE: Humanis Hater's Club
>>>>>[You guys probably saw the message from Martel on the board. Martel's real
name is John Zealand. I had Zactof make a run against one of his Warehouses
yesterday and we found some interresting stuff. Zealand has been supplying
local Humanis and Pro-Human gangs with weapons, armor, and safe houses.

Whatever you do leave Zealand to me. SIx years ago the man placed a bomb in a
Carbondale Grade School. 23 Kids and 2 Adults dead. I recieved serious burns
from the explosion but arrived too late to stop the bomb. Zealand wants to play
a game where only one of us walks away. It won't be him, by God. I'll be in
Carbondale looking for him.

If I die some there is 100K nY in this account >>account<< make sure it gets to
my mom and little girl at >>encrypted<<. Thanks.]<<<<<
      -- Kovak (17:23:56 GMT / 1-11-56)

***** Private: Freddy Fripp
>>>>>[Time for some action. about time boss, I thought I was gonna grow old
and start to collect my penssion before anything would happen. but really all
seriousness aside.  Who's this kor character?  what's he do, besides be
adicted to air?  You shouldn't have to worry about gryff and me, we two big
boys can handle anything skuff might get us into, and well if you put us in
his charge, he couldn't be incompetent, cuz I know how stingie you can be
about loaning out talent. ( I HOPE)]<<<<<
        --  GoD < 12:50 / 01/11/56 >


>>>>>[Hey Aardvark, how did that "coffee" I sent you work out?
If you want any more I've got a thermos full (assuming it hasn't
eaten throu the thermos yet).]<<<<<
        -- Irish <10:59:45/01-11-56>

***** Private: GoD
>>>>>[Who, me?  Why, didn't you notice the provision in your contract
where I get all of your company-provided insurance policy upon your
death?

JOKE!

Kor's one of the hottest combat mages I've seen in... well, let's just
say the last... pushin' twenty years.  'Course, he's hit some problems
recently  and isn't in the shape he used to be, but I still wouldn't
like to piss him off.

Watch and learn.  And have a good time.]<<<<<
       -- Freddy Frypp (12:25:12 / 01-10-56)

***** Private: Trixie
>>>>>[I'm not THAT old.  You lost me somewhere... I thought you were
talking about cyberdecks.

Thanks for the list, but commercial contacts aren't gonna have what I
need, I need street contacts where I can get some of the fun
pharmaceuticals (Hyper, Zen and Atrophine, namely).  Hmm, do you
think Kor would know where I could get that stuff?

Asprin ain't gonna do squat for the damage I'm gonna do!

Now, I'm gonna need some movies, too.

Lessee.... I'll need:
Tommy, 1984 and the remake 2084, Marathon Man, the Wall, the
Manchurian Candidate, Faces of Death (aw, hell any of the first
fifteen or so, the last dozen have been really reaching), the trid
version of Paranormal Slaughterers from around the World I-III and...
some Freestyle vids.  Can you get those?  I'd get 'em myself,
but I'm not familiar enough with the Seattle Matrix to even know
where to look.

Thanks.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:35:44 / 01-11-56)

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[You should come over and talk to Granpa.  He has a lot of that
stuff on video tape (Yeah, and a working VRC or something like that.   This
stuff is seriously PRE-C.D.).  Im a big fan of The Wall (Thats the one
about the rock band, right?)

Lets see  --  You can check the video library that Jason has too...How
do you like that monster TV set-up he has in the "living room"?  Its
killer.  He lets us have pizzah parties over there sometimes.  I think
he has a lot of the stuff you asked for.

I took the liberty of getting you a card with the local rental agency.  They
can get the gruesome stuff you wanted.

Jason might know where to get the illegal stuff.  I stay well away from
that aspect of his life.  Its better if I have plausable deniability.]<<<<<

        -- Trixie <18:45:01 / 01-11-56>

>>>>>[  *****Include Trideo Download*****

Hello again, from the world of corporate expansion and the Front Range Free
Zone.  My name is Charlie Fingers, just returned from a three week vacation
in the snowy Swiss Alps, and the news of the hour again focuses on Maxim Arms.

Earlier today, the Maxim Arms subsidiary Maxim Armament Systems announced a
deal with Weapons World International to have the latter market and retail
a variety of personal security devices including lethal and non-lethal weapons\
and their latest in armor.  In addition, Maxim Armament Systems announced a
deal with Lone Star Security to provide 100 armored and fully enclosed high-
threat motorcycles for use on the streets of Seattle and other Lone Star
contracted areas.  These vehicles, the Maxim Lightning, have been introduced
into the security subsidiary, Maxim Security, for over three months now and are
finally available for non-Maxim purchasers.

Finally, rumors abound about a new form of vectored thrust vehicle currently
undergoing final tests in preparation for public release that has overcome
enough of the fuel efficiency problems of current V-T vehicles to be used in
more cost conscious operations than the military, such as police, private
security, bonded couriers, and even the ambulance/emergency medical services.
DocWagon has already expressed an interest.  No one at Maxim Arms was available
for comment.

On this news, Maxim Arms stock is up 7.34 points at this hour of trading.

My name is Charlie Fingers, and until next time, this has been the news of the
hour.  *****End Trideo Download*****  ]<<<<<

        --  Trideo Pirate <13:53:54/01-11-56>

>>>>>[Greetings and salutations to you all from Boston.

This normally lovely metroplex has been gradually returning to some semblance
of order over the past three weeks since the final destruction of the Lucifer
construct in Fuchi's infected system.  However, as I am honor bound to mention
this, it was not Fuchi who created the demonic frame, but a deceased matrix-
runner aliased Dante, thus action against Fuchi is hardly necessary.  They were
as much corporate victims as Renraku or Maxim or Shiawase.  However, the purpose
of this letter is not to speak about Fuchi, but rather to inform you of the
current state of the Boston Metroplex.

Medically speaking, the VITAS outbreak fed by the deplorable conditions caused
by the total failure of all power, water, sewage, transportation, police, and
all emergency services has been brought under control.  The hepatitis and
Cholera outbreaks are expected to be under control within the next few days to
a week.  Sewage and fresh water services have been restored, as has partial
power and vital communications, quite naturally to the vital service providers
first, such as the hospitals, clinics, police stations, etc.  As of today
Traffic is still terribly congested and only very gradually clearing or being\
cleared by police and the National Guard and Metroplex Guard.  The only aspect
that remains unaffected and unpleasant is the criminal element.  Gang, Mafia,
and personal crime remains rampant across the metroplex, and the police have
their hands full without even trying to bring an end to it.  Thus Boston is
not likely to be a safe metroplex to travel to in the near future.

To all of you that aided in the destruction of the Lucifer construct, from all
of Boston, we thank you.

Now, on to more personal matters.  I am currently unemployed.  My speciality is
cyberdeck design and programming and I have some unique experience in Matrix
Archetecture design and navigation that could be useful.  If anyone is looking
for such experience or expertise, I am available.

Good day, and I thank you again.]<<<<<
        --  Mercury <14:08:10/01-11-56>

*****PRIVATE:  Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Sir, my employer has requested that I make contact with you in regard to
a possible buisness arrangement.  This would be a true buisness arrangement,
not the type that so many of the people here practice, with contracts,
schedules, and payment.  While I have not been given the authority to inform
you of the precise terms, my employer would like to see if you are interested
in testing some of our ready-to-be-released security goods.  These would
include armor, lethal and non-lethal weapons, security devices and electronics,
and possibly vehicles as well.  However, I cannot provide details until you
sign a non-disclosure agreement.  I have included one for your signature if
you would like to hear more.  Please note that even telling relatives or co-
workers would be a breach of this non-disclosure agreement at this stage.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely

Ms. V.

+++++ Include Maxim Arms Non-disclosure agreement, Corporate #11294792+++++

]<<<<<

        --  Ms. V. <14:15:20/01-11-56>

***** PRIVATE: Damselfly
>>>>>[ Uh...well...where d' we go, from _here_, luv?  I dunno if yer
in much of any mood ta _talk_, right now...

But, I _would_ like ta know...at least an _approximation_...of jus
WHERE we might be headin...

Caitlin, I want ya ta know...I had a _wonderful_ ev'nin!  Truly, I DID!
And, I'd figured we'd jus TALK....*gentle smirk*   Ah-h-h, lass...I
dunno WHA happened!  But...I know I liked it!  And, I'd like fer it ta
happen again, I _do_ b'lieve...

But, I really _do_ think we need ta talk....UHG!  I _dunno_--m'be I'm
PUSHIN!  I'm sorry...I didn't _mean_ ta!  Thin's 've jus gotten so...
CRAZY, fer me, lately!  I dunno... *SIGH*smirk*

Wanna thank ya fer patchin up my scratches, too!  'Course, come ta
_think_ o' it, tha's wha _got_ us ta this point, ta b'gin wi'...now, wasn't
it!?  *smirk*

Look, if ya dun wanna talk ta me, right now--or, perhaps...e'er...
*whimper*--I'll understand.  I'll be CRUSHED!  But, I'll understand...
*smile*  Jus...lemme know, il'yah?  I'm not really sure jus how much free
time we're gonna _have_, all considered. ]<<<<<
        --  Sean-Cullen Og O'Brecon  ( **:**:** / **-**-** )

*****PRIVATE: Ryuga
>>>>>[I was afraid of that.  I hope Flamestrike, Windblade, and Frosttooth
are allowed to aid Zarkon and Tarkis.  If not, I may have to come over
there.]<<<<<
          --Olorin (20:13:30 GMT/11-Jan-56)

>>>>>[Nex, old pal, you'd better leave the throat biting to those who need to.
You might get a bad rep that way.  If only AJ were back....]<<<<<
        --  Slash <15:48:50/01-11-56>

>>>>>[ What an interesting way to interrupt the afternoon!  To
recap briefly, we lost all contact with Shadowfox and Rebecca
Jones in early December.  So the excited yell from Blitzkrieg
attracted all our attention.  You see, normally when Blitzkrieg
yells, it means DragonEyes is about to loose another terminal.
Yesterday happened to be my day to watch Blitzkrieg.  Not the
most fun task in the world.  Truthfully, he was doing better
recently than in the past but is still given to change from good
to bad without much warning.

I was a little surprised when I skidded into the room, to find
the terminal intact and Blitzkrieg logged in.  So I quickly got
in to see what his uproar was about.  Rebecca was in Denver.

Blitzkrieg, finally noticing me ran off to tell DragonEyes.  I
listened to Ratspeak and Scourge trace down the last known
location.  By the time they found that, Blitzkrieg had gathered
everyone fit to go into a trouble area and DragonEyes.  Unlike
most of the times he goes into trouble, he didn't seem to be the
least bit fazed by the thought of violence.  A little strange for
him, but then again I guess Pittsburgh hit him harder than I
thought.

As we headed cross Denver in our favorite van with Kor at the
wheel.  He drives like a cheetah chasing it's prey.  Of course
that didn't stop any of us from stopping what we were doing.
Blitzkrieg and I entered a debate on whether our opposition was
expecting us.  We decided based on the location of where the
address was most likely it was Japanese runners that we were up
against, which isn't too promising.  As we debated, though we
both double checked our gear.  We brought our typical street
gear, because we didn't want to attract everyone's attention.
Blitzkrieg, of course, pointed out that going into an area loaded
with Asians meant that we were going to stick out like sore
thumbs.  Blitzkrieg was under the opinion that it was a good
thing that Doomsday wasn't with us.  I'm still under the
impression though that he would have been very helpful.  I
remember at the time remarking, "Even though Doomsday will
attract everyone's attention, I rather have him guarding my back
then not."

Blitzkrieg stated the obvious, "Don't make a damn of a difference
'cause he ain't here."  DragonEyes, however, was ignoring both of
us.  He was on the phone with someone.  As Blitzkrieg and I were
finishing inspecting our gear, he turned around and addressed us:

"I have two native street toughs tracking them.  They got to the
location just in time to see them leave.  They are currently
following them discretely.  Unfortunately, they are heading
deeper in an area of town where even the discreet followers will
be obvious.  To help us find Rebecca, I had a watcher follow her.
In forty-five minutes it will leave them and come find me.  The
street toughs won't engage in combat for either side.  In matter
of fact, when you three show up, they will leave."

Kor responded with, "You mean you are going to actually send me
in?  What is stopping me from after the encounter running off?"

DragonEyes responded rather coldly, "If they are injured people
about, are you willing to feed them to whatever has Rebecca
captive?  Or if you leave when they are heading back, how are you
going to feel if they get captured after you split?  And lastly,
there is some news I need to tell you about, but if you take off,
you won't learn it.  My guess is that the news is fairly
important.

"But if none of that holds you here, so be it.  In that case, I
will only say, people in Seattle need you badly.  Maybe as badly
as we need you now."

Kor did not have much to say in response to that.  We eventually
pulled over and started waiting.  There is nothing like knowing
that every ticking second maybe letting Rebecca get closer and
closer to being killed or worse and not being able to do anything
about it.  Some of our tension was stopped temporarily by Kor
asking who was Rebecca and why were risking our lives for her.

Hearing the answers out loud didn't put me in any better of a
mood.  In matter of fact, I think it brought up memories which
Blitzkrieg and I would have rather not thought about at all (not
that we had much choice -- I was already thinking of it before
Kor had asked).  The reasons though are quite simple.  First,
Rebecca is my ex-wife, and the only reason we got a divorce was
that we had incompatible lifestyles.  Second, Blitzkrieg and I
made a promise to Shadowfox a long time ago to help Rebecca out
if we could.  Both of us have paid a high price in trying to keep
the promise.  To break it now because we were unwilling to risk
our necks for her seems rather petty.

The high price -- some would say too high.  Blitzkrieg lost his
left arm.  He also lost a lot of himself to torture techniques
used by HAMMER.  My scarring.  My having to try and disrupt an
elemental that I used to call a friend, and in the process not
knowing whether or not I killed her.  Watching friends die.  All
for a promise and some money.  A lot of people would say it is
too high of price, yet neither Blitzkrieg nor I can turn back
time.  Yet Blitzkrieg didn't hesitate to find out where she is.
And neither of us hesitated on trying to rescue her.

At some point, DragonEyes went astral and wondered off.  About a
half an hour later he came back.  He then treated us to some
disturbing news.

DragonEyes: "Ummm.  I have a location from her.  I think these
runners know what they are doing.  They have holed up really
well.  The good news is that they don't have any fully magically
active people in the bunch . . ."

Blitzkrieg prompted: "The bad news?"

DragonEyes looked at Blitzkrieg and quickly looked down.  The
amount of pain in his eyes screamed to me.  I think Blitzkrieg
understood too.  He then cleared his throat, "Several things.
They have a decent amount of physical adepts there, and Rebecca
is in really bad shape.  I guess, " he paused to lick his lips,
"I will be going in with you.  The odds are really bad."

I spoke up at this point, "No.  We will need you here in case we
fail.  Look DragonEyes, I know you want to help.  I know it's
going to be bad in there, but if we frag up, what then?"

DragonEyes sighed.  "I'm sorry Bruce.  I'm going in because I
refuse to sit still while you take all the risks.  I have to go
in because I know how to get there and there is no time for me to
explain the directions to you.  I'm going because you are going
to need to save your strength to get there, and you'll need
illusions to get close.  And lastly, Rebecca may not make it out
without healing on the spot.  She . . .  " He trailed off.  With
a small pause he continued in a barely audible whisper, "She has
gone through what looks like torture."

Blitzkrieg stared at the floor for a long time, when he spoke his
voice was barely audible.  "So, what happens if we fail?"

DragonEyes response surprised me, "A spirit will go inform some
friends of mine, who will contact Fenris.  Hopefully Fenris will
know what to do if we frag up."

As DragonEyes drove the van to the spot where we abandoned it,
all I could think about was the environment that Blitzkrieg was
tortured by HAMMER.  But instead of Blitzkrieg being there, it
... it was Rebecca.  For the first time in a long time, I think I
actually was praying that I wouldn't be too late to help.  I
wonder if it is too late to help myself. ]<<<<<
     -- Scarface <13:45:30/1-11-56>

>>>>>[ DragonEyes told as to keep close as we walked along.  I
was absorbed in my own thoughts to consider what the others were
going through.  Every once in a while, I would wonder how
Blitzkrieg would hold up to seeing Rebecca.  Considering I didn't
know how I would react, I surmised that he would probably even
more dangerous to be around then in Pittsburgh.  Once in while I
would look at DragonEyes.  For a while I was puzzled on how he
was keeping track of where he was in the maze.  It finally dawned
on me that we had two city spirits with us.  One was a greater
one that was actually leading us, and the other was just a normal
one that was concealing us.  If we had been in a crowded area
that could have been dangerous, but where we were the only danger
would be attracting unwanted magical attention.

It was Blitzkrieg who first broke the silence.  He simply stated,
"You don't have any weapons, DragonEyes.  Try and stay close to
someone then so when the fighting starts so you don't get
yourself into any more trouble than the rest of us are going to
be in."

DragonEyes nodded.

Kor softly asked, "DragonEyes, if you are going to keep going
into hostile areas, why don't you carry gear to protect
yourself?"

DragonEyes briskly responded, "Carrying weapons to defend myself
is not natural for me.  I was worried about Rebecca enough that I
forgot.  If we don't shut up, I won't be able to hide us."

I wonder who he was fooling.  Maybe Blitzkrieg, but I think Kor
had already picked up what DragonEyes was doing.

Within twenty minutes we had arrived at a building.  It was no
different than any of the surrounding ones.  At first glance, it
was surrounded by the usual squats, but something felt wrong to
me.  Blitzkrieg scanned around.  You could almost feel the
nervousness of the thought of being too late.  DragonEyes started
gesturing but Blitzkrieg stopped him.  In a whisper, Blitzkrieg
informed us that as soon as the door to the building opens we
would announce our presence to them.

After a few tense moments, I got an idea.  Since I could see one
of the guards, I knew I couldn't risk making enough noise to tell
them of my plan.  I motioned for them to stay close, and slowly
crept toward the building.  Instead of heading toward the door, I
went 5 meters left of it.  Once there, I levitated myself up to
the first window, and inspected it.  I remembered a long time
ago, watching a friend of mine, break into a building through an
old window.  I quickly gathered my thoughts and found a way to
pop off the screen.  I guess either DragonEyes or Kor was on the
ball because I didn't hear any sound from me breaking into the
window.  Needless to say, I thought I was blown when a Japanese
woman walked into the room and looked out the very window that I
was endeavoring to open.  I almost lost the levitation spell in
relief when she turned and walked away.  About two minutes later,
I managed to open the window.  One at a time, I got everyone
through the window.  DragonEyes was the last one through.  I
think it was plain luck that no one walked onto us when I was
pulling up Blitzkrieg.  DragonEyes looked at me like he was ready
to kill something.  I didn't realize until then that radio
chatter drives him up the wall.

DragonEyes let us know that they were holding her on the top
floor.  Blitzkrieg and I both volunteered to lead the way, but
DragonEyes said that Blitzkrieg should have the honor until we
got to the top floor.

Things went smoothly once we got started.  Blitzkrieg claimed
that it was his skill at point that helped us out.  I think even
he would agree that probably the hearth spirit helped more.  I
was more than a little amazed that the spirit was not chattering
like bird, but maybe it sensed how nervous we were.  Even though
we had the spirit, we made sure that the coast was clear before
crossing hallways.

I couldn't tell you how long it took us to get to the top floor.
I thought that it took forever.  At the top floor, I started
guiding the group with Blitzkrieg off to my left, and basically
not even a half-step behind me.  Kor was bringing up the rear.
The spirit lead us right to the room.  Then for the first time
the spirit spoke.  Blitzkrieg jumped a foot and almost shot at
the voice.

The spirit said, "There are lots of people in there.  One lady,
she's hurting badly.  I don't think the other people like her at
all.  How may I help?"

DragonEyes said something I didn't understand, but I think Kor
did.  The spirit nodded.  The greater city spirit was also there.
DragonEyes apparently addressed it as well.

After a few seconds, DragonEyes said, "There are three physical
adepts in there, and a few cyber people."  He drew a picture on
the ground for us.  He pointed to three spots in the area, and
then said, "If Blitzkrieg can drop the people in those areas, Kor
and Scarface should be able to drop most of the people with some
good old fashion sleep spells.  I don't know how much time we
will have, but if we can, we really should find out what they
know anything about Shadowfox."

Blitzkrieg replied, "I hope the sleep spell doesn't hurt Rebecca
or me.  Otherwise, okay with me."

Scarface nodded, "Sleep makes some sense though.  No time to
argue.  I'll do it, and pray it doesn't hurt us later."

Kor just shrugged.

Blitzkrieg silently signaled in on five, and proceeded to count.
The count seemed to take forever.  I was so afraid that we had
come too late.  It never crossed my mind that if we had
DragonEyes probably would have aborted the mission.  Blitzkrieg
rushed in with a pistol in each hand.  I had forgotten that
Blitzkrieg had specialized in fast attack.  He nailed two people
with shots.  I followed in but froze when I saw how bad Rebecca
was.  Luckily Kor didn't freeze up like I did.

I honestly cannot recall most of the combat.  It was such a blur.
Everyone was moving so fast.  The only things I can say about the
combat are: They got alarm out, Blitzkrieg lost control of
himself, and I somehow ended getting to Rebecca first.  I'm
embarrassed to say, but I think Kor and especially Blitzkrieg won
the day for us.  DragonEyes said that he thought Blitzkrieg and I
fought better and worse than we usually did.  He said as we were
retreating that, I and Blitzkrieg fought like madmen, and Kor was
exceptionally clearheaded during the whole thing.  Didn't change
one thing though.  We all were pretty hurt by the time we left
the room.

Blitzkrieg and Kor quickly picked up an HK227.  Blitzkrieg again
led us out as Kor brought up the rear.  I was carrying Rebecca
while DragonEyes was casting a few healing spells on Rebecca.
Our trip down was uneventful until we got to the entrance floor.
Once there Kor and Blitzkrieg started blazing a path for us
toward the outside during a massive firefight.  I was startled
when DragonEyes took Rebecca out of my arms, but nothing prepared
me for what happened next.

Apparently, there had been a running insult commentary to the
whole combat, but somebody said something that caused Blitzkrieg
to scream in anger.  Blitzkrieg in anger threw his gun at the
guy.  He then lunged.  The guy was stunned at first, but then put
a burst into Blitzkrieg.  It didn't halt Blitzkrieg's leap at
all.  Blitzkrieg snarled something like, "You will die for that
if it is the last thing I do!"  Blitzkrieg put the guy into a
bearhug, and then lightning flowed out of him into the guy.  The
guy was electrocuted.  Blitzkrieg had tears streaming down his
face when he got up.  Apparently, he had cast a spell far greater
than he could handle.  The fact that he even got up was amazing.
He took a step forward, and the rest of the people fell back.
They were too stunned to do anything.

Kor and I hammered them at that time, but Blitzkrieg collapsed.
I honestly don't remember how long it took us to do it, but Kor
and I literally fought our way out of the mess.  At the end of
it, Kor was about ready to kill DragonEyes over who was going to
carry Blitzkrieg, but DragonEyes ended the argument by saying,
"If you don't keep your arms free, we won't get out of here.
Scarface is too out of it to keep from focusing on Rebecca, and I
can't help if we get into combat."

Kor really didn't like it, but didn't put up much of an argument
over it.  I've learned that you really can't argue with
DragonEyes when he gets in certain moods.

We had two run ins with gangs along the way toward safety.  The
city spirit was guiding us to some other location (I guess
DragonEyes had worked it out before hand).

At the location, a medical clinic, we were admitted.  Rebecca was
put into a warded room and Blitzkrieg was put into intensive
care.  DragonEyes, even though he was exhausted as we all were,
did two things.  The first one was to contact some friends and
find a safer place for all of us.  And the second was that he had
a long talk to Kor.  Kor didn't look too thrilled at all after
the talk.  After Kor took a small nap and saw us safely
transferred to somewhere else, he departed to go on his own path.

He begged us to keep him posted on Blitzkrieg's condition.  I
would tell you what it is, save I really don't know anything.
Rebecca has just regained consciousness, and DragonEyes isn't
allowing me to see her yet.  And while, I won't say what his
reasons are, I have to admit he is correct in doing it.  To say
the least I'm not a happy. ]<<<<<
     -- Scarface <14:00:25/1-11-56>

***** Private: Fenris
>>>>>[ If you can find some free time, could you come to
>>encrypted<<?  Rebecca is in bad shape, but what little she
knows, might be helpful. ]<<<<<
     -- DragonEyes <14:07:23/1-11-56>

>>>>>[ NO!!!  BLITZKRIEG!!! <link disconnected after 30 minutes
idle> ]<<<<<
     -- Nightmare <14:30:00/1-11-56>

***** Private: Diana
>>>>>[ Bruce could probably use someone to talk to right about
now.  I'm not at my usual clinic, because there is not enough
security there.  Let me know if you want to find us. ]<<<<<
     -- DragonEyes <14:33:12/1-11-56>

>>>>>[ Blitzkrieg at this time has not come out of
unconsciousness.  At this time, I cannot tell whether he has
fully burned himself out or not.  Perhaps Nightmare, you might
care to visit him.  I'm doing my damndest to keep him alive, but
I cannot make any promises.  I'm sorry.  Contact me if you wish
to see him.  That goes for any of you out there.  But if I even
suspect that you represent a threat, you will not be allowed near
me or anyone else under my care.  I hope that is clear enough for
everyone.  I really could use a lot of time off. ]<<<<<
     -- DragonEyes <14:35:23/1-11-56>

***** Private: DragonEyes
>>>>>[ I transferred a bunch of funds for use as you see needed
to help both Rebecca and Blitzkrieg.  I did it out of my own
pocket, instead of through Ares.  The money is at >>account<<.
At the appropriate time, I will pay you individually for all you
have done for everyone.  I don't care whether you like the fact
that I'm doing it or not.  You deserve it. ]<<<<<
     -- Scourge <14:37:29/1-11-56>

***** Private: Ms. V.
>>>>>[As flattered as I am that you have selected my corporation to
evaluate your equipment, I must respectfully regect your proposal.  I
would need to consult with senior executives about your equipment
before agreeing to the evaluation period and this would appear to
violate your non-disclosure statement.  If the provision of
consultation with my executives were to be added, I would consider
your offer.  Also, standing contracts with various arms manufactures
may preclude the use of your equipment.  As I am not currently in a
position to evaluate these contracts, I can defer these questions to
our legal department, if the other provision is acceptable.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (15:38:15 / 01-11-56)

***** Private: Trixie
>>>>>[Yeah, that's the one about the band, Trixie, sheesh.

I wish I'da looked around before working up that list.  A lot of those
titles are handy.  You ever watch any of this stuff?  Lots of stuff to
warp minds.  Lots of stuff to think about.  Lots of stuff to make you
lose lunch.

I can't wait....]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (15:40:00 / 01-11-56)

*****Private: Flamestrike
>>>>>[ I just now woke up, and saw your message, I am pleased someone is
going to help Zarkon and I.  We would love you to help us, but before
anything happens, I have to tell you the story on S.A.I.C.  which I will
do as soon as I can think straight. Thanx for wanting to help, I mean
only the world is at stake.]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

*****Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ Yes its true Whisper is DarkLord.  And i think it will affect the
run, I know SAIC will ahve DarkLord with him if we do reach him. I might
go blacnk on the run and do anything.  I am not taking this very well,
and I can't hurt Whisper.  I am taking double dosages of prazac to calm
me down right now, or I would be not this serious, or be sitting here.
So just make sure I don't do anything stupid when we try to stop SAIC.]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

***** PRIVATE: Skuff
>>>>>[Im on my way home right now.  Should be there in a couple of hours.
Do you want to meet at my place or should I stop by your's on my way in?]<<<<<

        -- Jason Stormwind <22:07:37 / 01-11-56>

>>>>>[ If anyone has been follwoing what is happening to me...and would
like to assist, please respond to me. It has to do with S.A.I.C.  ]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental Case>

*****Private: Zarkon, Flamestrike
>>>>>[ Hi guys...now that I regained my strenght, I can tell you how
serious this is.  To start out, SAIC is not really AI, he is controled
from the inside, and is made to look SAIC.  Unless someone altered it,
there is some running SAIC.  When i was 19...like you all know I am
insane, well at 19 I wanted to take the world, so I built SAIC. It is
programed to destruct, and take the world. I am the only one who knows
how to turn it off. Well at 19 I was finally given Prozac, and it
straightened me out a bit, so I realized how stupid it was.  I shut SAIC
off, and left him in a cave.  Someone must have found him, and turned him
on. SAIC can run by himself, and is capable of being converted to AI. But
I doubt that happened.  We must find and stop SAIC, cause I feel
responsible for it.  I know for a fact, SAIC can not really take the
world, but he can create other like him and then he could.  that file i
have is the file of how to build him, and it is only a sketch, SAIC has
the true file, so he can make a copy of himself in about 1 week.  We must
find SAIC, shut him off, and kill the person inside it, because that
person now knows enough to rebuild another one, so he must be destroyed.
Now on the mind erasing thing, is their greating threat, they can erase
memory form someone and implant a whole new life.  SAIC must be
stopped!]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

>>>>>[Dragoneyes, I am willing to offer my services as a healer to aid in the
recovery of Blitzkrieg.  I am the Prelate of The Defenders of Life group.  As
such I cannot attempt to harm any who do not, in a given situation, mean any
harm unto myself.]<<<<<
           --The Transformer (18:20:30 EST/01:11:56)
             Prelate
             Defenders of Life

*****Private: Flamestrike
>>>>>[Excellent. We would appreciate your aid on this mission very
much. We should arrange a strategy meeting ASAP. Do you have any good
sites or shall we select one?]<<<<<
        --  Zarkon <7:40:43 / 01-11-56>

*****Private: Tarkis
>>>>>[Hopefully you will get this when you wake up... I'm out looking for
more runners. If you're well enough, could you do a matrix background
check on Flamestrike, Windblade, and Frosttooth, of the Order of the
Magus? They sound legit, but you never know.]<<<<<
        --  Zarkon <7:45:22 / 01-11-56>

*****PRIVATE:  DragonEyes
>>>>>[I'd very much like to get in touch with Bruce.  Tell me where and when
to meet you and I'll be there promptly.]<<<<<
        --  Diana, Mistress of the Night <<20:14:29/01-11-56

>>>>>[Nex, hon, you'd better get your hoop to my apartment to visit me and
your daughter.  She's growing like a weed, accelerated, walking, talking, and
already exhibiting some magical talent.  It looks like she might be a full
magician when she gets a little older.  Come home soon, or I'll be REALLY
upset.]<<<<<
        --  Foxey Roxey <20:28:23/01-11-56>

>>>>>[You go away for a little while.....

Nexus, is that you laddie?!  I thought you'd gone the way of Dark Elf
and so many others.....good to have you back!  Gotten into any trouble
yet?  :>]<<<<<
        --Highlander (21:30:44/1-11-56)

>>>>>[My, the dead have come back to life.....welcome back, Colin!
Where were you?  And who is this Nexus, anyway?]<<<<<
        --Heather (21:31:43/1-11-56)

>>>>>[Hey, lass, some of us have to go out and look for work, and not
depend on a cushy corp position......

And the Nexus is...ah...well....it'd take awhile to explain. A bonnie
lad is a good start.....]<<<<<
        --Highlander (21:33:30/1-11-56)

>>>>>[Heather, lass, he'll grow on you.  He always seems to.]<<<<<
          --Buzz (The one the only...Human Bee in the Matrix)

*****PRIVATE: Kovak
>>>>>[Allright old boy, there's a BOMB in a metahuman school at >>encrypted<<
and you've got one hour to find it. If not, I help purge the world of the
unpure.]<<<<<
       -- Martel (08:10:23 CST / 1-12-56)

*****PRIVATE: Martel, Humanis Hater's Club
>>>>>[You killed your own sister, my wife, because you think that metahumans are
unpure. For that I'll kill you. For this I'm gonna finish you. If you want to
settle this, pick your fight with me not innocent children.]<<<<<
       -- Kovak (14:16:32 GMT / 1-12-56)

>>>>>[Here's my first step to get Martel.

+++++UPLOAD PHONE TRANSCRIPT: Kovak.911

(Lone Star)Lone Star Carbondale. Is this an emergency?

(Kovak)Yes. There's a bomb in the grade school on Frontage Road. My name is
George O'gradie, I'm an ex-bomb disposal officer from LS Chicago. I'm heading
to the school right now. You need to evacuate the place.

(Lone Star)I'll evacuate the school, but it says here you are to be arrested for
terrorist action.

(Kovak)Arrest me after I diffuse that bomb. Unless you got someone better than
me at bomb disposal.

(Lone Star)We'll deal with that in a minute. Canine and FRT are in transit.

(Kovak)Thanks.

+++++END PHONE TRANSCRIPT:

I'm on my way to get the bomb.]<<<<<
       -- Kovak (14:30:23 GMT / 1-12-56)

>>>>>[For that Kovak you've got 30 minutes.]<<<<<
       -- Martel (08:33:24 CST / 1-12-56)

>>>>>[Kovak, dont you go getting yourself blown to bits, I dont have time
to attend another funneral.

Hey, DE, you and I need to do a face to face sometime and the pretty near
future.  Right now I am up to my arm pits in repaying old debts.]<<<<<

        -- Kor <14:40:58 / 01-12-56>

>>>>>[ AYE!!!  HIGHLANDER!!!  Tis good ta be back in the land o'
the livin...I guess...fer _now_...*smirk*  Lemme get back ta ya, in a
coupla days!

And, tis wiz ta hear from ya, again!  How've thin's been goin fer ya, lad?
 Wha've ya all been up ta?  Cherise still ridin yer case?  *grin*
And, WHO, exactly, is _Heather_?  Hmmm?  *sneer*

We're gonna _hafta_ get t'gether, once I get back, and do a lil'
"remenicin", o'er a few frosty pints o' Guiness...and a _lovely_ bottle
o' whiskey I've happened ta've aquired, in my travels--from the Isle o'
Skye...eh!?!

_Hopefully_, I'll be seein ya all right soon!  Keep yer fingers crossed,
fer me! ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: Highlander
>>>>>[ Colin, I get back in town...and ya jus might hafta help me
find some place ta HIDE!  I shit ya not!  Lissa's NOT gonna be happy,
once she finds out jus _what_--or, should I say WHO ?-- I've been
upta, lately!

I guess tis na real secret, thin's _havenna_ been goin ta smooth fer
us, as o' late...*SIGH*  I dunno _where_ we went wrong...but, we
DID.  And, I think I'm ready ta...move...on...*sigh* I _dunno_!

Got any sage words o' advice ya could toss my way, term? ]<<<<<
        --  Sean-Cullen ( **:**:** / **-**-** )

>>>>>[ Hhmmm..._me_?  In _trouble_?  Now THERE'S a _novel_
thought!?!?  *SMIRK* ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

*****PRIVATE:  Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[The non-disclosure agreement is arranged so that, if you feel comfortable
signing it, we can discuss in enough detail to allow you to make the decision
whether you would like to take our offer to your executive board.  However, if
you prefer to take that step immediately, feel free to duplicate the form I
enclosed previously and distribute them to the board.  And of course, we have
no difficulty, at more advanced stages, in involving lawyers with the finer
details of contract negotiations.  If this is satisfactory, then return either
just your own signed form or the additional forms of your executive board
memebers and I will be happy to inform you of what we had in mind.  Otherwise,
tell me what else can be done or indicate your disaproval and we shall part
ways.]<<<<<
    --  Ms. V <20:25:28/01-11-56>

***** Private: Ms. V.
>>>>>[Certainly.  I'll need some time to forward copies to my
executives.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (10:52:12 / 01-12-56)

>>>>>[ 'EY, SLASH!!!  Whathefuck ya been up ta!?!?  Havenna
seen hide nor hair o' YA, fer WAY ta long!!

My guess is ya saw the video download, huh?  Doesnna possess the
more refined, artistic qualities o' my trideo designs...Phft! Yeah....
_right_!   But, Hey, a debut's a debut!

Besides, sate, a psycho's gotta do wha a psycho's gotta do, neh?
]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: Slash
>>>>>[ Seems like we've all been outta touch WAY ta long, friend!
Wha the FUCK's been goin ON, with ya guys?  I've gotten m'self all
tangled up in this shit, here in Hicksville...and, still seems like
NObody's tellin me a DAMN THING!

I miss my KIDS, Slash!  I'm s'posed ta be seein Joseph, first
weekend, after I get back.  But...I miss my lil _girl_, man!  Thought I
might _actually_ get a chance ta hang around, and watch at least
ONE o' my kids grow up!  *SIGH*  But, looks like I'm screwed again!

Thin's 've been really nuts, around here...HELL--_I'VE_ been nuts!
Moreso than _usual_.  But, one thing I've gotten, outta all tha's been
goin on, lately...Slash, I'm SICK o' bein kicked around!  I'm SICK o'
bein ignored, and taken fer granted!  I'm SICK o' bein a fuckin
DOORMAT!

Slash, I _love_ Lissa...dun get me WRONG!  But, much as I enjoy
bein there fer _her_...I need ta start thinkin about ME!  I need
someone ta BE there, fer _me_--not jus when the world's fallin down
'round my big, pointy ears!  But, when all the stupid, mundane _shit_
starts drivin me up the fuckin WALL!

I've, m'be, got a chance fer somethin a lil better.  It may be a long
shot...but, I think tis a risk I'm _willin_ ta take!

Besides, I'm not bein fair ta _Lis_, hangin around.  She needs ta
find someone she doesnna have  ta BABYSIT, 24-fuckin-7!  My bein
around's jus gonna drag us BOTH down...and, I dun wanna see her
b'come e'en HALF the basket-case _I_ am!

I dunno....jus needed ta blow off some steam, I guess.  *SIGH*  I
should be back, sometime within the next week, I guess...
M'be I'll see ya 'round... ]<<<<<
        --  Sean-Cullen ( **:**:** / **-**-** )

>>>>>[ To the Transformer: Thank you for the offer of assistance.  At this
time, I am unable to let you come out here and help.  Maybe I can turn
circumstances briefly.

To Nightmare: Well?  Are you going to blow this one off too?

To Scourge: Thank you.  You are too kind.

To Kor:  Hmm.  Didn't we just have one?  I hope you can straighten out the old
debts speedily and to your satisfaction. ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <10:10:23/1-12-56>

***** Private: DragonEyes
>>>>>[ I'm in Seattle right now doing a job for Scourge.  I should be done in a
day or two.  He is quite the Johnson when it comes to doing things that he
really wants done.  Then I would like to come to see Mark. ]<<<<<
        -- Nightmare <10:12:00/1-12-56>

***** Private: Nightmare
>>>>>[ Very well.  Remember I want no violence to happen around the safe house.
It's at >>location<<. ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <10:14:34/1-12-56>

***** Private: Diana
>>>>>[ You may only come if you promise not to try and kill or do anything that
would lead to Nightmare's demise for as long as he is around me or Blitzkrieg.
Otherwise I'll just send Bruce to you. ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <10:16:27/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ Hey, Shadowfriends...retrieved _another_ neat little video
piece, from one of my "pets", this morning.  Thought you all might
like to see it.  Looks like THE Nex ain't the _only_ gore-monger,
around these parts, as of late!  *smirk*

Gimme a minute...uh,...ho-kay...here...we...uh...GO!  Enjoy!

+++++ INCLUDE VIDEO drone.vid

The opening image is a street, not nearly as crowded as city-dwellers
are used to, nor does the gleam of metal seem to shine as brightly.
The street lights actually cast a pool of yellow radiance, if at peculiar
angles.  And, the nightlife seems to be mostly of the unreasonably
drunken variety, marked clearly by the occasional sober individual,
hurrying from one end of his tiny world to the other.  And, further
punctuated by the patrols of well-armed pairs in security armor,
steering casually around the reeling stragglers.

The drone which bears the camera maneuvers smoothly along the
rooftops, settling in on one, to observe one of these armored patrols
in detail.

A close-up reveals that the pair are clearly Human, both male, and
both unshaven for at least a day or two; one is brunette, the other a
dish-water blond.  Their armor is most likely medium-weight Kevlar,
drawn over fiberglass, and ceramic plates--relatively inexpensive, but
effective--and, the insignia reveal little, though the presence of a CAS
flag with illegible lettering is obvious, among the miscellaneous
patches and pins.

Each carries an assault rifle, with an under-barrel grenade launcher,
and the protrusions of Smartgun targeting systems are present, on
the nearest one.  The casual demeanor with which they stroll down
the street is mirrored in their expressions, until a look of alarm--
rapidly followed by outrage--flashes across the blond's face.  He
raises his weapon, his partner turns to look, and the camera draws
rapidly back, as the muzzle flashes in three, brief surges.

The wider view reveals the source of the man's consternation--an Ork,
dressed in tailcoat and tophat, is jumping, backward, into the alley.
The drone lifts for a better angle, swinging around, behind the two
men, as the Ork's head pokes clear of  the alley, a barrel preceding
it.

Muzzleflash glints twice, as the gun kicks in the Ork's hand, and the
slower of the guardsmen never completes his turn.  The first drops to
one knee, and fires again, a shower of brick fragments marking the
burst's impact, as he walks it up the wall.  But, the Ork is already
out of sight, again, and the drone is maneuvering to catch both
parties in its field of vision.

As the drone swings around, to capture the Ork pressed against the
wall, the guard who went down stands up.  For a moment, the other
man remains focussed on the alley, training his sight carefully at
where the Ork's head must have been, moments ago.

As the fallen guard jerkily stands completely erect, this focus fades,
and the man drops his weapon and begins backing away from his
partner, never quite attaining his feet, as he scrambles back.  The
Ork, who's apparently poked his head out, amidst the confusion, fires
twice, and the second man collapses, the spray of blood and bone
chips is evident, as his jaw shatters.

Slowly, the one armored figure still standing walks over to the
alleyway.  The drone lifts into the air, widening its focus, to take in
the street activity, as it occurs.  Flashing lights are visible in the near
distance, though no figures are to be seen, save the Ork, and the
lumbering guard, who appears to have joined the ranks of the
intoxicated, in the past few moments.

As he reaches the Ork, the Ork places something into yhe guard's
outstretched hands.  Then, the Ork disappears into the gloom of the
alleyway.  The camera zooms in on the guard, the gaping wound
stretching from his chest, down and across the abdomen, now
clearly visible--easily enough to destroy any ordinary man.

As the camera zooms closer, tightening focus on the guard's hands,
the object amidst the blood, intestines, and other miscellaneous
viscera, is clearly a lump those knowledgeable in demolitions clearly
recognize as C-12, with a detonator plugged rather precariously into
it.

As the camera zooms back, apparently satisfied, it's clear that the
flashing lights have come much closer, and obviously belong to the
squat, motorcycle-like vehicle now approaching.

The guard continues to walk forward, as the motorcycle approaches,
revealing itself to be a Red Ranger, outfitted with a nasty-looking
autocannon, protruding from the rear turret.  It pulls up to the scene
of the mayhem, while the ambling guardsman continues to approach
it.  The driver pops the door, and the guard lurches forward, releasing
the plastique into the cab.

A flash marks detonation, followed by two more, as the ammunition
and fuel tanks add to the blaze.  The camera, shutting flare filters,
zooms out.

+++++ END VIDEO FEED

 _Lovely_, huh?   Yee-ah...  Nex and Roger?  Huhm...can't_wait_ to see what
happens, once we get these two _psychopaths_together!

Well, gotta run!  While those two wittle the opposition down, one at
a time, by increasingly "interesting" means...the _rest_ of us have
planning to do!  See ya in the Shadows! ]<<<<<
        --  Fast Track ( 12:30:23 / 01-12-56 )

***** PRIVATE: DragonEyes
>>>>>[I am currently in debted to you for the assistance that both you and
Blitz (along with the hoard of others I met while I was with you).  For
your help I am greatly appreciative.  You made a comment to me while we were
going in that has been playing in the back of my head since you said it.

You didnt need to hold out on me to 'force' me to help you.  I would really like
to consider you a close friend, something that I didnt have until pretty
recently, and the thought that you dont feel the same way is grating on me
in a pretty serious manner.

I have pretty much just given myself over to coming to grips with who and
what I am and a GREAT portion of my be able to deal with it is your doing
(fault?  --  smile).  I dont think that there is anyone else who could have
helped me (well, other than Bear herself...praise be) get back from the
brink as I was when you found me.

Look, Im still not good with this out-pouring of positive emotion but,
what I am trying to say is, like, if, well, you need me for something, you
can just ask and I will do everything within my power to be there for you
as you were for me.

I know you have you hands full.  You can get back to me when you have time,
I have a party to get ready for.  Keep an eye on the Seattle news, its time
for me to kick some ass and take some names...been out of action for too
long.

I am Jason Stormwind, I make my living by doing the jobs that others do not
want to do.  This is who I am, this is what I do.  I am happy with this
arrangement and I am proud of myself.  My happiness comes from within, not
from outside influences  --  See, it does work.]<<<<<

        -- Kor <17:34:13 / 01-12-56>

>>>>>[    *****Begin Audio/Video Download*****
An average looking man holding a microphone stands outside a small
building, whose shattered and smoke stained windows bare mute
evidence to an explosion haveing gone off inside.  Behind the
man and too his right are several, occupied, body bags, while off
to his left is a Doc Wagon ambulance and two stretchers.  The
features of the stretchers occupants are hidden behind the rear
doors of the ambulance, but you can see a tallish, red-haired dwarf
standing between the stretechers.
The man with the mic begins to speak  "This is Mike Hamil of
WBOR news.  Tonight the peace of this quite district in south
Tacoma was shattered.  Around closeing time, the bar behind me was
attacked by at least five people.  The bars only occupants; a Mr.
Louis Smith, the bar's owner, and two customers, a Mr. Angus
McLeir and a Miss Erika McLeir, where able to hold off the
attackers untill Lone Star arrived.  Both Mr. Smith and Miss McLeir
are reported to be in extreamly serious condition, and are being loaded
into a Doc Wagon ambulance as I speak.  Lone Star has declined to make
any comment."
In the background, the two stretchers are loaded into the ambulance,
which immeaditly pulls away.  The dwarf turns and begins to walk towards
Hamil, who immeaditly shoves his microphone into a face that would
be pleasently ugly, if it wasn't so scarred.
"Mr. McLeir, Do you know what caused this attack?  Do you think that
there will be more attacks? Do you . . ."
McLeir turns and slams his fist into Hamil's chest, causing him to double
up and collapse onto the ground, while over the microphone comes the
sound of breaking ribs.  McLeir then turns and walks away.
*****End Audio/Video Download*****

That was on the news late last night.  Theres a rumor going 'round
that the attackers where a corp hit team from one of the big eight.
I wounder what could make one of the big boys pull a stunt like
that?]<<<<<
        -- News Hound <11:27:02/01-12-56>

***** Private: Diana
>>>>>[ As soon as some other people show up, I'll tell Bruce that you want
to meet him.  However, I do want to make this clear.  The only reason I
am extending Nightmare welcome is that he is Blitzkrieg's older half-brother.
As such, he has family rights to be there.  For that reason, I am overlooking
what he has done in the past. ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <13:13:52/1-12-56>

***** Private: Ms. V.
>>>>>[++++++ FILE: DISCLOSURE.NON

There are the argeements for myself and several of my department
heads.

Now, what kinds of equipment do you have in mind?  I've checked with
the legal department and we do have a contract with Ruger regarding
the issuance of semi- and fully-automatic single-hand firearms,
unfortunately we would be in violation of these agreements if weapons
of this class and your manufacture were to be issued to our
employees.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (14:20:14 / 01-12-56)

***** Private: Courier, Fenris, Doomsday
>>>>>[ For the record, I sent this to Courier to in order that this message
might reach you all.  Fenris and Doomsday, I would appreciate your company for
a few reasons.  One, Rebecca might have useful information to try and find
Shadowfox.  Second, I need more security that I can rely on.  I have a few
people that are coming in that have plenty of enemies.  I no fighting to take
place, and need a few good people to help me enforce that.  I'm willing to pay.

If you have arguements with Nightmare or WHAT though, do not accept my offer.
I don't know if WHAT is coming in, but Nightmare will be, and since Blitzkrieg
is his family, I don't want him to be hurt.  Which means no planning ambushes
or anything else for when he leaves.

Will you help me? ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <13:20:25/1-12-56>

***** Private: DragonEyes, Fenris
>>>>>[ I hear ya, and I will be dere.  Can't talk for Fenris.  'Sides I owe
Nightmare some danks for saving my ass.  What's up with WHAT being threatened?
And where am I supposed ta go?  If Fenris agrees, I'll bring him with me.
]<<<<<
        -- Doomsday <13:24:55/1-12-56>

***** Private: Doomsday
>>>>>[ WHAT is accused of stealing Powerhouse's sword.  I don't know if he will
show up or not though.  We are at >>location<<.  Hopefully I'll see at least
you soon. ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <13:26:55/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ Hey DragonEyes.  I want to visit Blitzkrieg. ]<<<<<
        -- HAMMER <13:35:33/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ Yeah right.  Why? ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <13:35:59/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ So I give him a present before he dies. ]<<<<<
        -- HAMMER <13:36:40/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ Sorry I don't think it would be a wise decision to let you know where I
am. ]<<<<<
        -- DragonEyes <13:37:28/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ Oh well.  I'll keep the present for myself.  It's a rather nice one.
]<<<<<
        -- HAMMER <13:38:20/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ Hi HAMMER.  I so appreciate yar sacrifice ta free me.  I have a present
ta dank ya for it.  Yar death!  If I ever see ya again, ya are a dead man.
]<<<<<
        -- Doomsday <13:39:48/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ Don't worry Doomsday ol' pal.  If I see you, I'll use my new present on
you.  And I prosmise you this, I won't be the one dead after that. ]<<<<<
        -- HAMMER <13:41:56/1-12-56>

>>>>>[ Promises, promises. ]<<<<<
        -- Scourge <13:45:05/1-12-56>

*****Private: Zarkon, Flamestrike
>>>>>[ OK I regained my strenghth, tell me when all your guys wanna
meet.  Oh Flamestrike, what were the names of your other friends that are
helping us?  I am working out the plans now, this might a little bit, I
am trying to determine if I should use red or green for this picture.
Hmmmm.. Darn, if i don't finish this painting, I can never start on
plans]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

*****Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ Will do a check on these guys as soon as I finish this painting.]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

>>>>>[ Whats wrong Tarkis? Is everyone afraid of me that you can't come
and get me? Or am I just to smart for you and you can't find me? HAHAHA I
will be awaiting your arival, you know where I am]<<<<<
        -- S.A.I.C. <Ultimate Ruler>

>>>>>[ I am trying to plan your death oout perfectly]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

*****Private: Zarkon
>>>>>[ Hmmm SAIC said I knew where he is, so it must be a place that i
have been before. Let me think .........................................
...............................................*20 min pause*  YES I
KNOW!  He is in the Lucas Building.  You know the one that we stored all
our eq.  WE abandoned it a long time ago, he must have fixed it up, Boy
this is gonna be hard, the security there is top!]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

***** PRIVATE: Kovak
>>>>>[ Dun worry, sate...one father ta another--we'll make sure they
get it!  Ya have my _word_ on tha, fer whae'er ya think _tha's_
worth... ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

>>>>>[Shadow's PISSED about something.]<<<<<
          --Firefox (19:16:30 EST/01:11:56)

*****PRIVATE: Foxey Roxey
>>>>>[GET OFF THE DAMN ATTITUDE, THAT YOU ARE BETTER!!!!!  That is part of
the problem.  YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO BE ANGRY AT NEX!!!!  HE HAS EVERY REASON
TO AVOID YOU!!!!!  You could have caused him severe problems from your lack
of an encryption when you were asked about him by us.  He does not neglect
his children, but now he's using drugs and chipping.  Something is happening
to him and you only care about yourself not HIM!!!!!   You're lucky I'm not
in the area!]<<<<<
          --Shadow (19:15:30 EST/01:12:56)

***** Private: Sean-Cullen
>>>>>[Laddie, if you need a place to stay, and friendly advice, you're
welcome to stay with me for a while.  Though I don't know if you should
listen to my advice, considering how tangled my own social life getws.....
(shuuder)]<<<<<
        --Highlander (22:48:32/1-12-56)

>>>>>[Heather is....uh, well....she's a bonnie lass!  Yeah, that's a good
start.....

And, actually, I haven't heard much from Cerise for a little while....she took
the death of Powerhouse pretty hard....wait, did you know about that?  So
much has happened.....

AND GET THAT LEER OFF YOUR FACE!  Heather and I are...friends!  Just
friends!]<<<<<
        --Highlander (22:50:45/1-12-56)

>>>>>["Just friends?"  Hmmm, that's not what it seemed like when I visited....
Oh well, don't want you to get into any trouble, lad....:>

Hello, Nexus!  Or is that THE Nexus?  Can I call you THE for short?  I'm
Col--sorry, HIGHLANDER'S old....friend.  Who are you?]<<<<<
        --Heather (22:56:11/1-12-56)

*****PRIVATE: Street Wolf
>>>>>[If you thought that was brutal -- see about getting some footage from
the bank cams at around >>encrypted time<<. Now that will be brutal.]<<<<<
        --  Jolly Roger (00:47:54 / 01-13-56)

PRIVATE: THE Nexus
>>>>>[Listen, I... I don't really...

+++PAUSE 10.254 sec

I mean I don't regret anything, exactly. And I would like to talk. But I
don't... I mean, I'm practically... I don't know.

Be careful in there. Just come back in one piece. We'll sort it out when my
next-door neighbors aren't trying to cook stray cats for dinner anymore.

The wine was lovely...]<<<<<
        --  Damselfly (01:34:42 / 01-13-56)

*****PRIVATE: Humanis Hater's Club (Anna crew)
>>>>>[Listen, we've got the ritual brewing to provide cover while ya'll play
bang-bang with the new toys, but let's keep this portion of the training as
brief as possible, OK?]<<<<<
        --  Damselfly  (01:39:55 / 01-13-56)

*****PRIVATE Humanis Hater's Club
>>>>>[Um. Nex. When you get to going back in, let me know. I'll be more than
happy to accompany you. Still haven't found the right keys, but I think I
know where the offline is.]<<<<<
          -- Dragonfly (01:02:03 / 13-JA-56)

>>>>>[Ha! So take that! I guess I'm just a little bit too slippery for you
inbred norms, eh?]<<<<<
        -- Jolly Roger (01:23:42 / 01-13-56)

>>>>>[ We hafta talk. ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: Colin
>>>>>[ Hey, thanx, term...much appreciated.  But, in all actuallity,
I think I'm gonna weather this, jus fine.  I think her last-- or rather,
FIRST-- post, dependin on yer POV, has served ta steel my
determination.  And, doesnna look much like I'm gonna be weatherin
it ALONE, neh?  *gentle smirk*

Not sayin I won't take ya up on yer offer, sumtime in the future,
though, jus fer the helluvit!  There's a standin invite, ta crash at the
penthouse, should ya find YA need sumwhere ta hole up, sate!

As fer yer _advice_...point well taken!  *grin* ]<<<<<
        --  Sean-Cullen ( **:**:** /  **-**-** )

>>>>>[ E'er notice how "bonnie" we all b'come, the more we seem
ta defy description!?  *sneer*

WHA!?  Me? Leer?!  I wasnna LEERIN!  Would _I_ take d'light in the
discomfiture o' a _friend_?  LEER?!?  ME?!?  Truly, ya _wound_ me!
*pout*  I'm _far_  ta much o' a gentleman, fer THA!

SO, _Heather_, tell me 'bout this _visit_.... *lecherous grin* ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

>>>>>[ Hoi, lass!  Moniker's _THE_ Nexus...and no, ya may _not_!
*GRIN*  Jus call me Nex!  Tis a HELLUVA lot nicer than wha I get
from _most_ people!  *smirk*

SO, ya and Highlander go a-ways back, huh?  Guess tha means yer
gonna have LOTTSA _int'restin_ stories ta tell!  *sneer*  We're gonna
hafta make a day o' it, once I get back!

Who _am_ I?  I'll not get inta contemplatin _tha_--tis likely it'll sent me
inta _months_ o' abyssmal depression!  *grin*   Le's jus say
Highlander and I have a relationship based on mutual & repeated
hoop-savin!

Well, kids, s'been wiz!  But, I've gotta poli-club ta o'erthrow.  Take
care...and, dun do anythin _I_ woudn't do--which leaves ya with a
LOTTA ground ta cover!!!  *SMIRK*  ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( A:hick:stompin / We-will-go :)

>>>>>[ And, _yes_...I _had_ heard 'bout PH...I'm _truly_ sorry.  I'll
miss our lively "national pride" mud-slingin campaigns.  *sad smile*

I hope she's a'right...I understand...I'm still not sure I've gotten thru
Solitaire's...demise...*sigh* I jus try _not_ ta think about it, I guess.
Send her--and his fam'ly and friends--my heartfelt condolences.
]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

***** PRIVATE: Damselfly
>>>>>[ Look, Cait...I _understand_...dun try ta explain anythin, right
now.  Now's NOT the best time ta be re-evaluatin _proposed
relationships_!  *smile*  We've all got enough on our minds...kay?

I KNOW _I_ dun regret it!  And, I'm glad ta hear ya dun, either.  A guy needs
s'mthin he can hold onta, times like these.  It'll be enough,
fer right now.  Ya know...a "glimmer o' hope"...*smirk*

I'll be BACK...I _promise_!  Ya'll not get rid o' me, THA easily, luv!
And, I'll try ta keep m'self in relatively one piece, a'right?

YA be careful, too!  Ya HEAR ME!!!!  Tis NOT a request--tha's an
ORDER, soldier!!  *smirk*

Cait.....

+++++ PAUSE  8.54 secs

.....*smile*sigh*.....be seein ya in the Shadows, babe!    ;}

+++++ ENCLOSED:  one virtually-transported kiss

This'll hafta do, til I get back... ]<<<<<
        --  Sean-Cullen ( 03:15:42 / 01-13-56 )

***** PRIVATE: Humanis Hater's Club
>>>>>[ Dragonfly...le's do it!! ]<<<<<
        --  THE Nexus ( When:the:bullet / Hits-the-bone )

+++++   Live video feed:

In a narrower, much _darker_ hallway, you see THE Nexus, once
again.  He's sliding two intricately-worked katanas--on of which is
_very_ bloody--into the sheaths strapped to his back.  Reaching up,
he pulls from his head the black beret, and the bandana, which had
concealed the delicate cant of his long, slender ears.  Slowly, he
runs long fingers thru his mane, tousling it as he does so.  A few
long, damp strands fall rakishly across his left eye. Bunching the
hat, and yellow and green bandana--the only display of his gang
colours--up, he stuffs them into the back pocket of his black fatigues.

As you follow him down the hall, he's met by two large, AmerIndian
men.  They look very much alike.  Stopping, they face one another
in silence a long moment.  When the Elf speaks, his voice is low
and solemn.

"Abrams is _yers_, Carmen, Joseph.  I owed 'm MUCH...but, ya've
owed 'm FIRST.  I've exacted all the r'venge _I_ need, fer now."

He raises his arm, working  the matte-black, cybernetic fingers into
a tight fist, staring at them a long moment.  The Indians look down.

"And, I've made _'m_ scream, as I _n'er_ did!"  he looks back at
them.  "When the last drop o' his life's blud tis spilled, when he's
he's drawn his last breath on this earth, then, too, will Mia, and my
sister, be avenged.  This, m' friends, I leave ta YOU..."

He moves, as if to go, then stops a moment.

"He sent his men after the 'Fly's team...and, I dun think they're
gonna stand a _chance_!  Keep an eye out, fer the kid, neh? "

They bow, ever-so-slightly to him, in answer, and the Elf passes on,
clapping Silent Running on the shoulder, before being swallowed by
the darkness.

+++++   End live feed

+++++   Live video feed:

Only a few moments have passed, since THE Nexus spoke with the
Indians.  He's wandered off, into the darkness, to be alone.  The toll
his duel with Abrams has taken on him has much more to do with
his emotional state, than with his physical one.

He, and his loved ones, had suffered _much_, at the cruel hands of
the Humanis leader.  Now, it all seemed to be coming to an end.
After _four years_ of being hunted and tortured, this chapter of his
miserable life seems to be drawing to a close.

But, he seems LESS than jubilant.  This victory, regardless of how
well-deserved it might be, won't bring back Mia Lincoln, or the
people of Silver Lake...it won't make up for all he and his have lost.
It can only come to a blessed--and belated--END.

He heaves a deep sigh of fatigue.  For DAYS, he's been going on
next to no sleep.  And, a caffeine buzz can only carry one so far.
With HIS metabolism, it's not been NEARLY far enough!

Absently, Nex passes into ever-deepening shadows.  Your poor
sensors are _barely_ enough to penetrate them.  You can JUST
make out his movements, by following the slightly-lighter shade of
his army-brown T-shirt, scarsely in contrast to his dark, coppery
skin.  It's useless to try and follow sounds he doesn't make.

HE has nothing to worry about...his low-light vision will serve him, til
the light fails.  Then, he has thermographics, and his finely-honed
_arcane_ senses.

He glides on silently thru the shadows, without fear, just another
namelss spectre in these haunted halls.

Suddenly, at an intersection--a riot of pipes and valves--he stops.
His head, hung in silent contemplation, slowly rises.  And, he turns,
without a word, as if drawn, to face the corridor to his right.

Almost as silently as he, a being, just a bit shorter than he, and
cloaked all in a veil of gray and grayer shadows, virtually materializes
before  him, near enough to touch with his long, slender fingers.
Near enough, you can hear the hiss of its breath, as their eyes meet.

And they stand, for the longest, most _agonizing_ of moments,
seemingly locked in a wordless battle of wills.  And, NEITHER is
giving  the other quarter.

Thirty seconds pass...45...a minute...and another half--and, STILL,
neither one will give!  All that betrays the tension of the moment, is
the way their body's seem to quiver, almost in synch, with their
nameless exhertions.

Your struggling sensors _finally_ pick up movement, to the very left
of your field of vision.  A figure...a BLUR of black and white, too
obscurred by the gloom for you to make much, if _anything_, out.

It rockets into the Elf, and seemingly _coils_ itself around him,
rocking him with the suddenness of the impact, but not breaking the
connection he's forged with the other being.

Again, there is no movement.  Nearly _another_ minute passes,
before the new-comer shrieks, in rage or fear, it's impossible to say.
THE Nexus and "companion" raise a simultanious cry of shock and
frustration.

And, the two stumble.  Roughly, with unexpected strength, the
new-comer flings the Elf aside, and the halls ring with a resounding
"clank", as his head inpacts a pipe, and he collapses to the floor
in a boneless heap.  The new arrival catches the Elf's opponent, as
he/she stumbles, and they quickly pass you.

But, you've not gone un-noticed.  Wrenching a pipe loose from the
wall, he swings it in a strong, wide arc toward you, his anger not
yet sated.  There is a deafening roar, and you _know_ you're falling.

You land hard, jarring connections loose, cracking lenses not
_already_ shattered.  Your vision jumps wildly, and threatens to fail
you completely.  The whining is loud, in your ears.  Your little motor
struggles, but it refuses to lift you.  You rock back and forth, rolling
a bit, in the dirt.  Your vision is scewed wildly, and begins to fade.

Your sensors pick up one last collection of sounds.  A low moan of
pain...lugged soles, scuffing in the dirt...equipment clanking quietly,
in a pack...

The Elf!  He's still alive!  He's regaining consciousness!  You HAVE
to get up!  Have to see if he's all right...have to get to his friends...
tell them what happened...where he is...have...to...get...help...your
vision goes dark.

There is only silence...

+++++   LINK TERMINATED

*****PRIVATE: Tarkis, Zarkon
>>>>>[The names of my associates are Windblade and Frosttooth.  You will
probably find very little information on us...It is only very recently that
our order has decided to reveal itself.  If you wish for information contact
the dracoform, Ryuga...he is the only outsider that has any information on
our order.]<<<<<
          --Flamestrike (07:50:30 EST/01:13:56)

>>>>>[ WHISPER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! please man, come back!!! I can't
take it anymore.........]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

*****Private: Tarkis
>>>>>[ Face it! Whisper is now DarkLord, you can never him back,
Hahahaha]<<<<<
        -- SAIC <Ultimate Ruler>

>>>>>[ YOUR MINE SAIC! ]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

*****PRIVATE: THE Nexus
>>>>>[I got yesterday's bomb dealt with. I'll mail the video later. My seven
year old daughter is elven. Her mom was also elven. Martel left a bomb in a
school and gave me notice. My wife was his sister. He killed her with a katana
and the rest with C-12. I'm prepared to die if I can take Martel a.ka. John
Zealand, with me.]<<<<<
       -- Kovak (14:10:23 GMT / 1-13-56)

>>>>>[say, freddy I've found somethin, and I'd like some one to give me some
input, I was roamin' the ARcology mall the other day and what do you know I
walk into one of the many sporting good stores, just browsin' around and what
do you know! there it was, in a cobold black and crimson red a little item
caled a Shadow suit, in looked just like the stuff the hoop heads in the trid-
shows wear.  Well, forgive me but the flashing lights must have gotten the
better of me cuz I bought it(thats what happens when you sit around a scuzzy
motel room for about 3 days). but before I go off and put it on I'd like to
know if you know of anything about these? , sure the little brochure that
came with them gave me a lot of dreck that I didn't really need to know but
I'd like some personal input ya know]<<<<<

        -- GoD (09:26:24 / 01/13/56)

***** Private: Tunnel-Rat
>>>>>[Hey, Rat, you still suckin' air past your teeth?  I haven't
heard from you in a while and yer carryin' a mighty important package
for me (not to mention a couple of my employees).  I'd hate ta hafta
hire somebody to find you...]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (09:22:09 / 01-13-56)

>>>>>[You bought a WHAT?!  You mean of those outrageously overpriced
Kevlar-weave, chemical-resistant, integral-shoulder-holster,
concealed-comm-set business suits?  I hope you kept your receit.

"Able to stop any sized caliber of bullets up to 12.7mm."  Well, if I
throw the bullets at you it'll stop them....

"Tired of hard rain eating through your suits?"  Sure, but you've
still got to worry about what to do when you get in out of the rain...

And, sure, the shoulder holster might be tailored into the suit, but
just try turning around quickly, the weight of the gun swings the
suit open in a reeeaaallllllyyyy non-fun, obvious kinda way.  Sure you
can button it up, but then try drawing anything larger than a hold-
out.

The commset's handy, but from what I've read the range is too short
and microwave ovens or bad alternators can jam 'em.

A healthy advertising budget strikes again.  Remind me to introduce
you to my tailor in LA when we get back to California.  For the same
price you just paid, he can set you up with a suit that really does
have some decent bullet and edged-weapon stopping power and a shoulder
holster so comfortable and well-tailored that YOU won't even notice
the fraggin' H&K sub hangin' in it.

He does his best work in sharkskin, though, and people keep telling
me it's tacky and out of style for about thirty years, but, hey, I
LIKE it.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (09:40:12 / 01-13-56)

>>>>>[  I have to agree with you on this one, Freddy.  When GoD came back to
the motel room wearing that thing I nearly passed out laughing.  He didn't
seem too amused, though.  Oh, by the way, sharkskin _is_ just a little
out of style these days, boss.  ]<<<<<
        -- Griffyn < 16:37:13/1-13-56 >

*****PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[  Hey boss, when are we gonna get some action around here.. you told
us about two days ago to get ready to be picked up, but we haven't seen you
yet.. What's going on?  ]<<<<<
        -- Griffyn < 16:45:23/1-13-56 >

*****PRIVATE: Tarkis, Zarkon
>>>>>[You set a meet up.  You know the area better than we.]<<<<<
          --Flamestrike (12:00:30 EST/01:13:56)

>>>>>[Ignore him.  He has this fetish for sharkskin.  I'm serious.

There's a group in Milan I know that does similar work, if you don't mind the
somber, restrained Italian look.]<<<<<
         --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[That was a fine lookin' tux though wasn't it?]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:00:00 / 01-13-56)

***** Private: Griffyn
>>>>>[Yeah, yeah, sorry about that, Skuff called me and told me to
cool my jets.  We're still working on something - big.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:01:12 / 01-13-56)

>>>>>[If you like looking like you've got a dead fish wrapped around you!]<<<<<
         --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[Since you mentioned it, I did have that one little incident with
a cat shaman...]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:40:00 / 01-13-56)

*****Private:Zarkon,
>>>>>[ Word is out that you are looking for a team to help you stop someone or
thing? Is this offer still open?  if it is we would like to help.
*incluld Pict.file
*incluld Resume.file
The team is made up of Death Jestor(human male ex-yakuza hitter)
Strikes-like-Lighting (human Amerindian ex-wildcat)
Loudo (a very Big Troll phy-add)
Rolling Thunder (our Dwarven Rigger)
and Me Red Ronin the decker.
you can contact us at>>enycripted<<   thanks The Team of Heads Will Roll<<<<<
     Red Ronin(12:58:30/1-13-56)

*****Private: Jolly Roger
>>>>>[M'ybe we shou' ge' tagether sometime.  I thin' we cou' have some fun
tagether.  Ya like ta blow thin's yup, an I jus' like ta burn 'em]<<<<<
        --  STREETWOLF(Fire is an Elf's Best Friend)<13:02:50/01-13-56>

*****PRIVATE:  THE Nexus
>>>>>[Uh oh.  She ain't gonna like that.  I hop you have your life insurance
paid up, Nex.  Although she's not as hair trigger as she used to be.  Havin
little Adrienne mellowed her out some.  After all, she couldn't rightly blow
up at her own kid when she puked or made a mess, could she?  She's done pretty
well, and you might be surprised about her reaction.  She'll still likely
throw your hoop out the apartment, but she'll come to her senses and move on
eventually.  Just try to go easy on her.]<<<<<
        --  Slash <13:40:25/01-13-56>

>>>>>[ Howdy!  Just thought I would let everyone know.  I'm in Seattle.  Maybe
in a few hours, I'll go visiting people. ]<<<<<
        -- Scarface <11:50:15/1-13-56>

>>>>>[ Speaking of Seattle.  Apparently another poor fool died last
night.

+++++ Begin news.reel
This morning James Rivers was found dead his apartment.  James Rivers was an up
and coming engineer in Micro-Processing, a small think-tank that works under
contract from Ares.  It appears that James died from overdose of a drug that
has yet to be identified.  Lone Star officials suspected it was drugs
considering that James tore out his datajack with his own barehands.  There has
been no official word from Micro-Processing on how it will affect meeting their
deadline on their latest contract from Ares.

There are rumors that Knight Errante will be asked to look into the matter.

+++++ End news.reel

What a poor sap. If you are going to commit suicide, you should at least do it
with style. ]<<<<<
        -- Changeling <11:59:30/1-13-56>

>>>>>[ uh huh.....  Why don't I like the sound of that.....

Well, regardless, Adrienne wants to see her father again.]<<<<<
        --  Foxey Roxey <13:43:02/01-13-56>

>>>>>[Buon giorno.  I am looking for some who would be interested in conducting
a low-profile raid on a corporate facility.  All expenses paid, including
transportation to and from the site.  The squad will recieve a payment equal
to 350,000Y through the International Bank of Rome.

Please contact me at *encrypted* if you are interested.]<<<<<
        --  Arrigo Conti <14:03:42/13-01-56>
            Director, Security Division
            Venerdi Biomedical

*****Private: Zarkon, Flamestrike, Windblade, Frosttooth
>>>>>[ Ok I got the plans set..the problem is we need about 4 more
people, but we can attempt with this many. My mentality right now is very
unstable, and we can't go rigth away.  lets wait 2 days, maybe I might
stable up a bit. *Very big explosion* darn....was meaning that to blow up
after the run...now i gotto figure a new way to comit suicide...*sigh*]<<<<<
        -- Tarkis <Mental/Case>

*****PRIVATE:  Shadow
>>>>>[Shadow, with that attitude, even though I've gained some control over my
temper, if you were in the area, you'd be dead.  As I have no desire to
subject my daughter to the trauma of seeing her mother kill someone, it's good
for both of us that you're not in the area.

Now, listen REAL well, or I'll send Max your way and make sure you hear the
message.

I don't think Nex is a bad father, certainly no worse a parent than I am.  I
was NOT implying that he's a bad father or that he neglects his kids.  I KNOW
he loves Joseph and Adrienne, so that's not a problem.  Abram's was not and
never really was a problem when I answered you before.  Abram's was dead long
before then, although his body was still walking around and thinking it was
alive.  So get the frag off your fraggin pedastal or I'll come and blow it out
from underneath your sorry hoop.]<<<<<
        --  Foxey Roxey <13:50:55/01-13-56>

*****PRIVATE:  Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[Excellent.  Thank you for you're time and effort, and I have recieved
word from my boss that all the documents were in order.  This is what we had
in mind.

We would like you to test the operation of certain weapons, specifically two
types of assult rifle, three new types of ammunition, a new form of security
armor, three non-lethal submission drugs similar to Narcoject and Mao, and
our new V-T police cruiser.  We will train your people how to use the weapons
that need to be explained, and we can either provide a crew or train your
people to do maintenece on the cruiser.  Are you interested yet, or would you
pprefer more details?]<<<<<
    --  Ms. V. <13:56:30/01-13-56>

***** Private: Ms. V.
>>>>>[My executives prefer more details (especially regarding the
panzer), so we may begin the proper paperwork registering the
equipment with the Marine occupation forces, unless you feel you
would be better suited in this endeavour.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (15:21:12 / 01-13-56)

>>>>>[Nex, I thought you'd be likin' to see this. Came from one of the
drones, I told Wildfire about it and he sent someone in. That was a couple
hours ago, though, and I haven't seen the lass come back yet.]<<<<<
       --  Street Wolf (07:13:45 / 01-13-56)

+++++ INCLUDE VIDEO drone.vid

The night air crackles with electricity in a way that almost makes you
suspect a bad connection. The scene is rapidly becoming familiar; it's a
southern Illinois town, and from the number of bombed-out buildings,
Jonesboro seems the likely choice.

A brief flicker is all that seems to pass, and suddenly the streets are much
fuller -- not with people, necessarily, though there are a few trolls visible
in the shadows, but with noise. The sounds are largely grunting noises, as
well as the occasional crack of a rifle. In the distance, the wall which
marks Anna is visible, and lights occassionally flick on and off atop this
wall. The heads of guardsmen also periodically appear, but as quickly
disappear as the rifles report loudly all throughout Jonesboro's streets.

A humming noise becomes audible above the slight din which marked the
invisible hordes moments ago. Lights behind the wall become visible as the
noise grows louder, gaining in intensity. A few shouts are heard, still
resounding their warnings clearly above what is beginning to sound
suspiciously like a vectored-thrust engine. At that very moment, the front
end of a Harpy appears over the wall, clearing it in a sudden leap by a good
25 meters. Several assault cannons boom nearby, and a couple impacts are
visible, then the placid night tears apart.

At first, the gunfire seems to be coming from the immediate vicinity. The
streaks of a couple SAMs shred the darkness, and the Harpy careens through
the sky madly at their impact, jetting crimson flame from her miniguns and
belching the occasional barrage of rockets. But as the Harpy explodes amidst
cheers, the gunfire intensifies, and the flash of autofire appears along the
wall at something approximating 5 meter intervals. The cheering dies down,
and a troll who thought to use the explosion as an opportunity to change
position is torn to small, meaty gobbets by the interlocking fields of fire.
More engines can be heard, and the unmistakeable sound of rotorcraft can be
heard high above.

The gunfire intensifies, and streaks of light mark the entrance of
spellcasters. The increased focus of firing has driven the wall's defenders
to give up their firing, and twin explosions near the gate mark the spot at
which it first begins to crumple, silhoutting the figures of at least a score
of crouching figures. Several more explosions make similar breaches, and the
lights of vehicles rapidly approaching from within splash across what must be
an even hundred figures running toward the wall, weapons firing.

Soon explosions are nearly all that remains visible, and the drone lifts,
moving closer to the site of the major conflict. Its camera picks up several
bodies lying in varied states of injury and catastrophic reorganization as it
swoops in to where the remnants of the wall remain. Here the bodies are piled
fairly deep, and an assortment of orks, dwarves, elves, and trolls kick at
the fallen, shooting occasionally and rifling pockets. Hundreds of meters up
the street, figures flit in and out of alleyways, exchanging fire and diving
for cover. The drone accelerates and climbs, scanning the expanding wave of
muzzleflash, apparently seeking to discover who is involved in each, zooming
both in and out with disorienting speed on various combatants. It finally
settles on a rather weak-looking troll wielding a CSL-AUG made up like an
LMG. The troll is haphazardly spraying the street with lead while shadowy
figures around him dash from alleyway to alleyway. The camera slowly adjusts
its focus until the scene encompasses these individuals as well.

Before you can get a good look at who those shadowy figures are, however, the
troll's muzzle ceases to flash. He wrestles with the clip desperately for a
moment, slaps in a new one, but his manipulations aren't quite fast enough.
The opposition has taken the opportunity, and from windows and doorways up
the street, shots flash in the smoky night. The blood spray is obvious; at
least four bursts have hit the troll.

Streaks of light emerge from the shadows, blossoming into bursts of flame in
several of the locations which gunfire came from moments before. Nonetheless,
the fallen body of the troll, as it begins dragging itself toward an
alleyway, is deluged with another hail of bullets. Several large wrenching
twists of blue appear down the road, replacing the figures of the oncoming
security guards and leaving only quivering protoplasm in their wake. A slim
elf runs from a doorway, dragging the troll out of the field of fire in the
momentary hesitation. Soon the gunfire resumes, and figures begin slowly
moving in.

+++++END VIDEO


----------
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