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*****Private: Genocide
>>>>>[I thank you for the concern. However, I am aware of the situation and
it is being dealt with. Unfortunately this is trapping some of my time, thus
forcing me to delay any action following your request. If possible, I will
get you your information by 03:00 tonight. If this is unacceptable, go ahead
with a secondary search. I will accept cut in my fee for information any
other source will provide before me.

As for your Scottish friends; I have no desire to journey there on my own
account. Give him my regards when you see them]<<<<<
     -- Razor <00:18:53/03-07-56>

*****Private: Genocide
>>>>>[Listen up, Chummer: We're awaiting your go-ahead. Just give is the
mark's location and we'll go pick him up for you <grin> ]<<<<<
     -- Sure Shot <02:23:42/03-07-56>

>>>>>[So, Whistler, you stupid slot, you finally figured out who CircE
(notice the E, pretty boy) is.  Well, she's got her revenge, all right.  You
just haven't the idea of what kind of revenge she has.  Circe is one mean
bitch to cross, and you crossed her for killing her lover, God rest his soul.
 He was a good friend of mine, a little wiseass, but a great decker and a
great friend.

Now Circe is tired of fragging with you and your little band of
shadowrunners.  She's been ready to kill you for two years, but patience has
its virtues, eh?  It seems she's already killed your previous incarnation of
Doom.  Oh, I'm sorry, did I just blow your cover?  I hope now Lone
Star/Knight Errant people are looking for you.  And we all know that bounty
hunters read shadownews on a regular basis.  Looks like somebody might try to
cash in on that 750,000 nuyen bounty on your head.

Well, Circe also wanted me to tell you that the owner of the bar that you
trashed about two years ago with that explosive?  Well, he wasn't insured and
subsequently died of exposure to the elements about a year ago.  Last I
recall, his wife is hooking along with his 13 year old daughter and his 15
year old son is hooked on BTLs and running with the 'Weeners.  At least the
people Circe aced died quickly instead of the lingering death of the street
lifestyle.

Circe says bring it.  She's more than willing to kill you a second
time.]<<<<<
           -- Ebony Kris (Twice-the-Damage/And-all-the-Poison)

*****PRIVATE:Whistler
>>>>>[I'm sorry, Whistler, but I cannot participate in your vendetta against
Circe.  I found it very.....upsetting when you killed Creeper over a snide
remark.  It contradicts my nature to assist you in killing someone who is
bent on revenge against you.  Granted you're an excellent mage and a friend,
I cannot help you on this one.  I'm sorry.]<<<<<
          -- Spellslinger (18:41:22/3-5-56)

*****Private: the Whistler
>>>>>[Whistler, I'm sorry for the delay in contacting you.  I was
temporarily out of Matrix contact due to some problems with Knight Errant
(something about Spring and I breaking into a high rise they guard to go
sightseeing.  Fortunately, they didn't catch us.)

The only real detail I have to report is a rumor that Macros' target may be
a high-level personage (I'm not sure who) in Aztechnology itself.  My
CalFree sources can neither confirm or deny the rumor.  If it is true, then
I have to admit to being a little uneasy at what it may mean.  For the
Azzies to pull an inter-corp hit (Aztlan and Aztechnology being effectively
one and the same) means something big and unprecedented is going on.  They
just don't do things that way among themselves.  Like I said, it makes me
uneasy.

All the other information I have been able to dig up just reinforces what I
already know and have heard about Macros.  Frustrating, but for all I know,
he's relaxing in a hotel room in Acapulco and eating room service.  I hope
you have had better luck.]<<<<<
        --  Mr. Purple <19:13:25/03-06-56>

>>>>>[ Hey chum, are you jazzed on something?  Where the hell are you pulling
750k from?  That's unreal.  You must be on something.  To have that kind of
money on a head has to mean one of the following:

1) You aren't going to follow through on the cash.
2) You're a fragging government and like wasting taxpayer's money.
or
3) You are slotting something hard core and too lazy to do the work yourself.

WAKE UP AND SMELL THE FRAGGING SOYCAF!!  You are supposedly offering enough
money for anyone to get out of the shadows and create a semblence of real life.
Hell, if I thought you were for real, _I_ would take you up on that kind of
money.  But I don't think you are for real, and I've got better ways of earning
money than following up on your BTL dreams. ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <18:33:25/3-6-56>

***** Private: Claw
>>>>>[ We've got a problem, CB's been shot.  It looks like it was Maxim.
She showed up on out doorstep today with a bullet in her leg.  From what she
says, there were some more of the people following her.  She decided to get
smart and let them know she had found them out, figuring that since they hadn't
done anything yet, that they probably wouldn't do anything.   She was wrong,
they decided that she needed to be scared.

She was able to give herself first aid and then come over to the house.  She
didn't want to go to Doc Wagon at the time.

Things have been getting worse though for all of us.  First off were the people
watching the house.  Knight Errant took good care of them, Ares folks tend to
not liker Maxim.  After that it took a about a week before we noticed any
surveilance, and that was because we were watching for it.  Of course the house
is not easy to watch up close since the grounds are sensored and the surrounding
houses are already owned by other wealthy individuals.  Plus the bonus of the
Ivy we have all over the house, not only does it look nice but we get astral
security.

When we found out about the new watch team, we sent them a message attached to a
rock through the window thanks to CRUSH and his amazing throwing arm.  You
should have seen the looks on their faces.  Of course, their escalation has been
to take sniper shots at us twice now.  We know they missed purposefully, but I
am still getting worried.

Further more, they have been trying to get us decking wise, CB already
encountered IC where it should not be, and they have tried to break into the
houses computer system as a warning, they got a bit in before I blasted them out
of there.

Watch you back out there chummer.]<<<<<
        -- Spirit <Of the MAtrix>


*****Private: Spirit
>>>>>[ I'm using your special encrypt for security.  It should take them a few
weeks to crack it like you said.  I'll be over soon, I just have to lead my
tails on another few wild goose chases.

I really haven't been having trouble keeping track of my trails.  One should not
try and hunt a Panther, for soon they will be the hunted.  I talked to the first
tail and then sent him home.  They sent a few more, these I have been leading
along.  Since it looks like they may decide to cause trouble I will probably
remove them from action.  From what I have seen, they are going to be resistant
to any magical interigation, and would be useless for sending to V as a gift.

If she gets too anoying I may go to further lengths that I haven't done in a
while.  Suffice to say that they may be rather vulgar.  As it is, I am
considering taking pot shots at the elementals around the HQ, and destroying the
wards.  That should get their attention.  Don't worry though, I won't go head to
head with them, their are too many.]<<<<<
        -- Claw <22:14:58/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ Hey Packman things have been pretty quiet around here since Fenris
headed off to Japan, any news on our roving assassin lately. ]<<<<<
        --  Courier <22:20:04/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ Carefull what you ask for Courier, the street is alive with
rumours that some sniper opened up into a crowd of people in the Arcology
'bout quarter an hour ago, law enforcement is on site and _nobody_ is
getting in there to have look. ]<<<<<
        --  Packman <22:24:18/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ We'll see about that!!! ]<<<<<
        --  Courier <22:27:53/03-06-55>

*****Private: The Lovers
>>>>>[ I require full access to Renraku matrix slave nodes, right now,
for a period of ten minutes! ]<<<<<
        --  Courier <22:30:00/03-06-55>

*****Private: Courier
>>>>>[ All right, but don't try and lift anything, that could bring,
complications... ]<<<<<
+++++Upload: Access Codes
+++++Upload: Partial System Map
        --  The Lovers <22:31:00/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ Here goes...
+++++Begin Matrix log
Once again you find your senses reel as the image of the matrix fills
your vision, within your sight is the somewhat familiar 'newspaper boy'
icon that (some of you) recognise as belonging to Courier...

He speeds off towards the Renraku icon on the horizon, involuntarily you
follow behind, maintaining exactly the distance between you. You quickly
approach the icon and hover approximately half way up it, the icon of the
newspaper boy shifts and shapes suddenly, assuming the exact form of a
red samurai, who waves his hand over the surface of the wall to reveal an
opening.

Dashing through several rooms you notice all the ICE calmly makes way for
the samurai, when you reach a small circular slave node with viewscreens
for walls, each showing a different picture, he has still not been
challenged by ICE.

The samurai looks around then spots what he is looking for, he motions
and you find yourself heading at the wall, you collide with it.

+++++Begin camera transmission
The scene is somewhat grisly, there is a fair amount of blood on the
sidewalk within the arcology, emergency crews are tending to wounded
wherever you look, however nobody looks badly hurt, mostly cuts and
scratches. Then a doctor with docwagon insignia moves out of the way and
you see the body, patiently you wait as the trauma team finishes tending
the victims, then begins to gather up the body on the ground. As the
sheet is removed the camera zooms in on the fallen mans features, the man
is tall, somewhat chunky, with greying dark hair, before you can see any
more the sheet is replaced and two of the medical officers begin carrying
him away.

You quickly survey the scene one final time, and something on the edge of
your vision glitters, zooming in you see, an ornate walking stick, it
must have been previously hidden by the body
+++++End camera transmission
+++++End matrix log
+++++Connection broken

DREK, DREK, DREK, DREK, DREK ]<<<<<
        --  Courier <22:39:18/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ Hey, I recognise that guy, just can't place him, hmm... However,
that wasn't some nut opening up on a crowd. Only one person died, that was
an execution, plain and simple, but why was it disguised... Courier, what
are you on to. ]<<<<<
        --  Packman <22:40:21/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ Think man, heres the list of people killed by our assassin friend
so far...
        - Several F.B.I. agents
        - Magical Researcher (insect totems)
        - Shadowrunning Group

        Alright, now that could be quite a few people, or, at the very
least a coincidence of several contracts. But you add the last name and
the conclusion is obvious. ]<<<<<
        --  Courier <22:41:50/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ But I don't know who that was! ]<<<<<
        --  Packman <22:42:38/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ The death certificate, confirming the unrecoverable demise of one
Mr. Brandon Lowe will probably be filed by sunbreak tomorrow. ]<<<<<
        --  Courier <22:44:18/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ Lowe??? The only people that want him dead are ..... OH DREK ]<<<<<
        --  Packman <22:45:12/03-06-55>

>>>>>[ That's right, how many more targets can you count around here. ]<<<<<
        --  Courier <22:46:07/03-06-55>

*****Private: Genocide
>>>>>[I have got the information you requested. Unfortunately, there are
several gaps in the young decker's background. I have confirmed his
presence in Seattle, however.

+++++ Send: Gensearch.dmp.enc.356

There is no mention of Operation Scalpel anywhere in the open net. Do you
wish for me to search the Corporation in question's system? I will, of
course, request additional fees for such a scan]<<<<<
     -- Razor <03:00:00/03-07-56>

*****PRIVATE: Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[This thing, like most Eastern-European stuff, is worth drek. The
launcher is nice, but the truck itself sucks really bad. My advice: take the
launcher off and mount it on something like an Ares RoadMaster.

        Hey, how the hell do you get rockets for your nice 100-year-old
launcher anyway?]<<<<<
        -- Gurth (11:06:39/3-7-56)

>>>>>[Like I always say "Never a dull Moment"
750k for the whistler, Damm Freddy did you hear that? someone out there
actually likes him more!!! Whistler pal, You seem to find yourself
in the most Cramped of spaces these days.  Well, like I always say
NEVER A DULL MOMENT IN SHADOWLAND!!!!]<<<<<
        -- GoD < 09:32:38/03-07-56 >

*****PRIVATE: Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[You're wrong, Gurth old boy. My unit and I used the BM-27 to great effect
against some ill-prepared Aztlan forces. The splinters that they send out mean
that, despite them being highly innacurate, they cause high numbers of wounded
which means that the enemy are too busy tending for them to be able to mount a
properly coordinated attack. They are, however, very lighlt armoured and have
no NBC capability or any defensive capabilities (they only fire indirectly).
As to where you can buy missiles, many countries make them under licence.]<<<<<
     -- Inquisitor (15:50:50/7-3-56)

*****PRIVATE:Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[And many black market sources make rockets as well....]<<<<<
           -- Gomer (09:23:34/3-7-56)

*****PRIVATE: The Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[The Bm-21
Another in a series of MLRS machines the Soviets produced, the Bm-21 is
mounted on a Ural-375 chassee.  The Bm-21 could discharge all 40 rockets in
about 30 seconds.  The armament was 122mm rockets.

Name                      handling     Speed    B/A   Sig    Apilot    Cost
Bm-21                           3             25/75     2/0       1
         0        55,000

Seating: Bench Seat in cabin, two bench seats in back for the loading crew.
Access: Two doors on the cabin, open access for rear seating
Fuel Cons:2km/L         Fuel Cap: 480 L
__________]<<<<<
              -- Andi Forbes (09:30:43/3-7-56)
                  Underworld Opera

*****PRIVATE: UO Adivsory Committee
>>>>>[The Ural truck on the Bm-21 was a fantastic off road vehicle for its
time.  Opposed to the Zil truck, opt for the Ural to mount your
rockets.]<<<<<
            -- Leslie (09:43:34/3-7-56)

***** PRIVATE: Trixie
>>>>>[  You're right, I'm most definitely interested in your offer.  How soon
do you need me to be back?  I'm kind of worried about Jas, since I haven't
heard from him in a few days, but I guess I can do just about as much good
from Seattle as I can from London.

+++++ Pause:  .23 minutes

Okay, I just booked a flight for about an hour and a half from now.. I should
be arriving in Seattle at >>encrypted<< .. think you can send someone to come
and get me at the airport?

Oh, by the way, you don't have to worry about the drug or BTL testing.  I've
seen too many people get fragged by that stuff to even consider it.  ]<<<<<
        -- Neuron Basher < 17:11:07/07-Mar-2056 >

***** PRIVATE:  Jason Stormwind
>>>>>[  Well, boss, we got that critter you wanted.  Was a little tricky,
since the collector that had it didn't exactly feel like parting with it,
but we managed.  Since I couldn't get in touch with you, I decided that the
direct approach was best, so we just went in and took the little beastie.
We is myself and a bit of local talent that a chummer of mine from this side
of the water put me in contact with.  I paid these guys with money that I
got from my corp credit card for "Miscellaneous Travel Expenses" ... you
can sign off my expense report when we get back.)

We managed to get in and out without any casualties on either side.  We
were very sure to use narcojet weapons only.  The guys that I hired were
adequate for the job.  Nothing stellar mind you, but they performed well
enough.  I'm heading back to Seattle in a little over an hour, with the
critter, so I'll keep him with me until you get back.  If you need anything,
just send a message to >>encrypted<< and I'll do whatever I can.  Take care,
chummer.  ]<<<<<
        -- Neuron Basher < 17:21:07/07-Mar-2056 >

***** PRIVATE: Neuron Basher
>>>>>[Im busy.  Take a cab, putz.]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <17:35:36 / 03-07-56>
           Head of Operations
           Industrial Sound and Magic

>>>>>[With that type of money I could be set up for a good long time on
nearly any of the CL's islands.  Hell, anything would be better than this
island right now.]<<<<<
        -- Gunner <16:53:28 / 07-MAR-56>

***** PRIVATE: Scourge
>>>>>[I am fairly deep in the shits right now.  If what you say is true about
DE, he is likely better off with LSS than he is on the streets.  Do you know
if he has any problems with closed in places?

I can call and have someone from the home office pick him up but honestly I
do not have command of the forces that it might take to keep whoever / whatever
is after him off of him.  Tell me again why I let you talk me into doing this?

Well, to the point.  I am sending this message to you to let you know that
I am in the middle of planning a run on Ares.  Dont forget to SMILE when
you read that.  I DON'T BELIEVE THIS WOMAN!

+++++ BEGIN: Audio.Upload

C: "I need the information that is on the computers in the loading docks"

J: "Sprinkler, you on line?"

S: "Yep-a-roonies."  (remote)

J: "Can you get us the files off that machine?"

S: "To coin a phrase...'not from here I can't'.  That part of their complex is
    not really on the matrix.  Its all internal.  I would have to be inside."

C: "Ok, its settled.  When can you be ready?"

S: "Im ready now.  I can be there in..."

J: Interrupting  --  "OH GIVE ME A BREAK.  You cant possibly be planning on
    Just waltzing up to the loading docks, flashing your, admittedly stunning
    smile, and expect them to just let us in to rape their computer files??"

S: Obviously to C "He's right you know...you might need to show some leg"

C: Annoyed "You are some hoop' hot shaman, and these two muscle heads must be
    good for something other than standing around looking like hood ornaments.
    I'm not going to let anything stand in the way of me and the information
    I need.  Not you three, not you Sprinkles, and definitely not some stupid
    Loading dock goon.  I know the files are there and I am going to get them
    ...with or without you."

J: Calmly "Im certain you know that if you leave here I will have to go to
    protect you."

C: Smuggly "I had my suspicions"

J: "Hey, Sprinkler...you still there"

S: "Yeah...I'm on my way.  I knew the lady would win."

J: "Have any of you ever done this type of thing before?"

----

Of course not.  If you dont hear from me in a couple of hours that is because
I am dead in some gutter.  Just look for the "hoop' hot shaman".  Fiesty little
beastie, this one is.  We should be ok.  The two poser boys actually can hold
their own.  Sprinkler is the one I am worried about.  The kid was a little
to eager to put himself on the line.

This DE thing has me a little distracted.  Let me know how to best get that
cleaned up.  I have a few contacts in LSS that will make sure he stays
in for a goodly long time if that is what you want.  I can press full charges
against him and have it held until I return to assess the damages myself.  DE
wont like it a bit but in a year or so, he will probably talk to me again.

Point of Interest:  We are ONLY going for the files she needs.  No one ill be
hurt or killed.  Forget you heard any of this until after we are done...]<<<<<
        -- Gunner <16:59:28 / 07-MAR-56>

***** Private: Freddy fripp
>>>>>[First I'LL say THANKS, but ummm, but I've hear her talk
and I thikn she'll end up teachin' uncle Freddy a little somethin'.
they are arriving at <encripted>, do you want me to stop by the office
and drop her off or do you want us to wait for ya at Fripp estates <grin>.
I'll probably leave josh at my appt. were he'll be safe...
Thanks boss, I owe ya one.]<<<<<
        -- <16:05:20 / 03-05-56>

>>>>>[ Courier -- if what you saying is right, then I think I might have
a small clue as to who is chasing DragonEyes -- or at least partly.  If I
remember correctly, and Scourge will have to confirm this, wasn't it DragonEyes
who organized that whole run in Pittsburgh?

*sigh*  I got a little more on the scoop that has happened since DragonEyes
was arrested.  He has been offically extradited to the FBI and FBI has just
put him in maximum security prison.  He -- He is being put on trial for this:

       -- Stealing Military grade equipment from >>encrypted<<
       -- Kidnapping a citizen of the UCAS.  Killing that citizen.
          (Anyone remember Crashkit?)
       -- Wanted for orchestrating a whole slew of deaths of a FBI-FRT.
       -- And the sweetest one of the bunch -- Tax evasion.
       -- To boot they are going to charge him with breaking/entering and
          stealing from Jason Stormwind.

Let me ask you this -- besides HAMMER who really hates DragonEyes? ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <10:23:43/3-7-56>

>>>>>[ FRAG!! ]<<<<<
        -- Scourge <10:24:09/3-7-56>

>>>>>[ I suppose while we are on the topic of HAMMER, I might want to mention
this.  According to some news people I know in Germany, HAMMER got released
from the hospital last night.  I wonder what he plans on doing. . . ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <10:25:23/3-7-56>

>>>>>[Weird.  Personally, I think 750K's waaaayyy more than he's
worth.   When you put a contract out on somebody you really need to
think of the economics of it.  Think of it as an investment.  How
much trouble has the Whistler caused that someone would actually
flush three-quarters of a million fraggin' nuyen though the back of
his skull?

I mean, I'd like to see 'im a crimson smear on the furniture just as
much as the next guy, but wow, that's a ton o' money.  Even if I had
that much money available I wouldn't waste it like that.

Damn, I'm jealous.  'Course with that much money on his head, every
two-bit bounty-hunter / ganger / soldier o' fortune wannabe / little
old lady will be gunnin' for him.

Best o' luck, folks.  If you need any ammo you can call me at
>>>FRYPPSEC public line<<<.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:22:23 / 03-07-56)
           President
           Frypp Security, Inc. (CFSM Uplink #5150)

>>>>>[Um, Trix, you want me to tell you if another guy's cute?  Hey,
just 'cause I live in San Francisco that doesn't mean I'm
swishy.]<<<<<
       -- Freddy Frypp (12:25:55 / 03-07-56)
          President
          Frypp Security, Inc. (CFSM Uplink #5150)

***** Private: GoD
>>>>>[Just bring 'er to.... hey - waitasec.  Wonder if Karen can take
her for us?  But, yeah, bring her to the office.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:30:34 / 03-07-56)
           President
           Frypp Security, Inc. (CFSM Uplink #5150)

***** Private: Karen
>>>>>[Hey, babe.  GoD's gotta babysit his neice and asked me if we
could help out.  You know my place is in no condition for the rearing
of young minds, so can I bring her over to your place?]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (12:31:44 / 03-07-56)
           President
           Frypp Security, Inc. (CFSM Uplink #5150)

***** PRIVATE: Gunner
>>>>>[ DE status:  I just did a little bit of digging and found out this.  FBI
has him now, and they are going to ram the court as quickly as possible to get
him the death penalty and get him killed.  He still has at least one group of
runners (that might or might not be connected with Pittsburgh) that is gunning
for him hard.  Based on that, I would say -- he's fragged.  And I can't do a
damn thing about it without getting fired.

I'm amused about your future plans.  Well if nothing else let me know all the
juicy details.  Out of curiosity -- why can you not believe Colleen?  She wants
to conclude this business well so that she can get a promotion.  (whether she
deserves it or not).

Sounds like Sprinkler is a sucker for beautiful humans.  Just great.  Well try
and keep Colleen and him alive.  Actually knowing your rep. I would say that
more than likely you'll just be worse for wear afterwards.

Back to my main point though -- the whole topic with DE is going very badly.
I'm not sure what is up with the charges that have been slapped on him by the
FBI, but I'm starting to fear for my life.  The whole thing stinks and it
looks like I could be lunch meat just because it is going on. ]<<<<<
        -- Scourge <10:46:55/3-7-56>

>>>>>[Ebony Kris?  I guess you're the sniper, eh?

What the hell bar are you talking about?  The little freak Creeper died
in an explosion in his own apartment.  Now I'm getting blamed for
something I didn't do?  How typical of your kind.

CircE (what the hell is that 'E'?) will have to do better if she wants to
kill me "a second time."  You sorry bleeders had the advantage of suprise
before, but now... the Wyrm has been awakened.  And now you shall be
destroyed.  Utterly.]<<<<<
        --the Whistler<12:34:17/3-7-56>

*****PRIVATE:  Spellslinger
>>>>>{What the frag are you talking about?  Creeper did more than insult
me, he threatend to expose me.  Yeah, I had his place blown up.  To tell
you the truth, it more of an accident he happened to be there at the
time.  This CircE bitch has been fraggin' with not only me, but with all
of us.  As near as I can tell, she's been working against you, Reaver,
Daihis, and the others.  It may have been "incidental", but I have every
reason to believe that a least a few bullets have gone your way,
compliments of CircE.  And now you won't help me?  I'm not asking you to
kill anyone, you never do.  But we've know each other for a few years
now.  And it sure as hell isn't the time to turn your back.]<<<<<
        --the Whistler<12:39:16/3-7-56>

>>>>>[ Hey Trix, I'm back in town.  I'm gonna head by my place and get cleaned
up.  I'll be back in the office a little later.  See, if you'd been nice and
sent someone to pick me up, instead of making me deal with the half-wit Seattle
cabbies, I might have told ya who was fooling with your deck.  Oh well, guess
you'll never know now, huh?

+++++include: chuckle.snd

On the lighter side, I took care of the job that Jason had me doing, and the
critter that he wanted should be coming into town in a couple of days.  Had
to have it sent by a different 'carrier' than the commercial flight I took.

Hey, how would you like to grab a bite to eat tonite to celebrate our
promotions?  My treat..  ]<<<<<
        -- Neuron Basher < 19:21:07/3-07-56 >

>>>>>[Hate to break it to you, Whistler, but you didn't bomb his apartment.
 You bombed Terry's Tavern, a haunt of his.  As he's told me, Sureshot was a
little singed after that little explosion.  And Sureshot don't go to nobody's
apartment for a drink.

And I could only wish I was as good a shot as the sammy shooting at you.
 Alas, I'm just a miserable decker.  Just a courier of the news.  Sorry,
Whistler, you should be so lucky to have me shooting at you.

We look forward to running "The Wyrm" on its hook and feeding you to the
fish.]<<<<<
         -- Ebony Kris (Twice-the-Damage/And-all-the-Poison)

*****PRIVATE: Whistler
>>>>>[How did Creeper even get close to "exposing" you?  He made a flippiant
remark about you being a weenie and haning around with a gorgeous babe?  It
really shocked me to discover that you blew him away.

I haven't seen anything that would lead me to believe that Circe has been
working against me.  Hell, none of my loved ones are dead.  And I haven't
seen hide nor hair of a sniper trying to blow me away.  I think this is
wholly personal-- and I don't want to get involved.  Especially after hearing
what happened at the Iguana.

I also think Circe would be smart enough to stay away from Daishi.  Hell, the
only person would would even think about Daishi dying would be either Father
Time or Nethicus.  It's best to leave SuperSams alone.  And with Reaver--
hell, he's got so many enemies it's hard to figure out just who IS shooting
at him.

Look, I can help you, but merely indirectly.  If you need some places to hide
out, I've got some squats in the Salish lands and a few Shamen who could help
you out.  You know my LTG.  Best of luck in your vendetta.]<<<<<
        -- Spellslinger (13:34:20/3-7-56)

*****PRIVATE: Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[ Ill-prepared, my arse, Inquisitor.  Your unit may have used your old BM-
27's to 'great effect', but you also lost six out of eight vehicles to the
measely counterattack that did get coordinated.  To anybody going up against
these old gulag machines, remember that the gas tanks are really lightly
armored, and stuck right behind the driver's compartment.  One or two shots
and she brews up right nicely. ]<<<<<
        -- Xenophiliac (22:07:39/7-5-56)

>>>>>[ I hope this works . . .
+++++ data upload (Y/N)? y
+++++ file name? drone.data
+++++ loading drone.data [ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ]
+++++ decompressing drone.data [..............................................]
+++++ Transmit drone.data (Y/N)? n
+++++ Other?  delay
+++++ Delay time? 01:00:00.02
+++++ Delay time of 1 hour, 0 minutes, and 0.02 seconds correct (Y/N)? y

+++++ Delay data dump into node >>encrypted<< initialized
+++++ Countdown sequence started

+++++ Data dump begins

A scrolling message floats across your vision.  "This is what happened over the
weekend in Japan.  Subtitles to English are provided at all times the person
speaking is _NOT_ speaking in English.  The _ONLY_ reason you are seeing this
is because I think people deserve to know.
                                                  -- Scarface

You see before you, a typical look at the nightlife from downtown city.  The
city looks vaguely familiar except that there are lights everywhere.  Lights on
buses (very gaudy), lights on sign boards, lights on street lights, and even
lining the sidewalk themselves at some points.  If you didn't know better you
would say that someone(s) got overly happy with the lights and tried to out do
anyone celebrating Christmas.  Must be Japan.  Maybe they should rename the
place to "Land of Lights."  Nah . . . doesn't do Japan justice.

The street is fairly well jammed packed for night, but then again, maybe it
isn't because from all the lights you are having a trouble telling what time it
is supposed to be anyway.  Most of the people are Asian which makes the few
that aren't Asian stick out like sore thumbs.  You note (dryly) that there are
_NO_ metaraces present save humans.  Humans as far and wide as you can see.
Suddenly you see to non-Asians cross paths.  They stop when they face each
other.

The first man has short blond hair and is cleanly shaven.  He is wearing a nice
suit and a trenchcoat over it.  You think you can see glimpses of a sword from
underneath.  The second man is a younger man who is bald but has a blond
goutee.  He is wearing a nice leather jacket and has a nice pair of black
gloves.  The only other noticable thing is that there is a slight resemblence
of the two features.  Maybe they are related.

Man #1 (in English):  Well hello!  I haven't seen you in ages!  What are you
doing tonight?
Man #2 (also in English):  Right now I was just looking around a little bit.  I
just got in yesterday, you know and I'm still getting the lay of the land.
What time is it anyway?
Man #1: I don't know.  You know what I did the other day?
Man #2: Took a shower?
Man #1: Well besides that, you silly!  I sent a package home, but I haven't
received word that it got there.  I really hope so, it was such a quaint little
thing.
Man #2: You don't say.  I wish you could see the stars from here.  Too much
light, I suppose.

(They start walking together).

Man #1 (pauses for a bit): You are quite correct the light is too much.  Way
too intense.  (Under his breath he says in German, "Drek -- we got tails.")
Man #2: You know I think I'm in the mood for a show tonight.  Know of any place
that is putting on a tragedy?
Man #1: Hmm.  I don't know.  I suppose we could scan the datafaxs to see if we
could find one.
Man #2: Nah.  To much hassle.  Besides, I'm feeling kind of tired.  It feels
like I have been walking in cirlces for days.  I was hoping that coming here
would let me feel like I was getting away from all that.
Man #1: I know that feeling.

They come to intersection.

Man #1: Let's go this way.  It looks a little bit darker this way.
Man #2 (hesitates): You sure?  It looks a little scary that way.
Man #1 (laughs): Why you afraid of the dark?  Heavans knows, we might run into
one of those dreaded changed ones!
Man #2: The horrors.  That is such a dreadful thought.
*Man #2 under his breath* Mother, we got tails leading them homewards.
Man #2: The more I look at this place, the more I could really use something to
wet my throat.
Man #1: I suppose.  Guess we will just have to find a place to get you a drink.
Knowing most cities there should be one this way.

They duck into an alleyway.  The first man reaches into his pocket and pulls
out gloves and puts them on.  You notice that they are picking up their pace
rapidly.  The younger man says in Germanm, "You better be in shape.  Shall we?"

The older man shakes his head.  He responds (in German), "Not yet.  Too many
witnesses.  Let's try and loose them first."  He races down the alleyway.  You
are amazed at how quiet he is running considering those shoes _were not_ meant
to be run in.  "For the record, I'm more worried about you keeping up with me
than whether I'm in shape or not.  After all, you are the one who is just
recovering from a bad fight."

The younger man snarls and responds, "Fuck you.  I'm just waiting for you to
feed me to the sharks again to save your sorry little ass."

The older man doesn't even turn to look at the young man as he says softly, "If
you still think that you should have never let me come here.  We are three
blocks away from potential help and more trouble.  By my count they will have
caught up to us on block two."

The young man skids to a stop.  "Wrong.  Look over there.  Looks like we are
dealing with people with brains."

The older man looks around and says, "Remember engagment plans.  Stay back to
back unless bullets start flying."  He opens his trenchcoat and takes off a
belt.  "It's the using live ammo.  With all the specifics that you wanted."  He
hands the weapons belt to the other man who puts on the belt and then takes off
his left glove.  It exposes a cybernetic hand.  He does a quick check on the
gun and holsters it.

Man #2:  Drek, we're going to meet them in the wide open.
Man #1:  Too late to worry about that now.

You watch in nervous silence as the two get surrounded by 8 young japenese
gangers.  The younger man just shakes his head.

One of the gangers -- the one with the katana out, looks at them and goes, (in
japanese), "Well, well, well.  If it isn't the so called 'Nightmare'.  I hear
you two are asking questions about someone who you don't need to find.  I'm
afraid, I cannot let you find him before we do.  It is so nice of you to be
hear though, because that way, I can cover some expenses from the bounty on
your head."

Nightmare (the older man) smiles slowly and says in perfect japanese,
"Apparently you don't know me so well."  He uncovers his sword and draws it in
a smooth motion.  "I wonder if you truly earned that katana.  It is such a
shame to be fighting an unworthy opponent of such a fine blade.  It shames me
that I will have to kill you for that dishonor to its maker."

The ganger says softly, "Big words for an old man.  I have earned my katana
even though my sensai was a traitorous dog.  Before I kill you, though . . ."
he starts circling around them.  It surprises you a little to see that the
young man and Nightmare smoothly keep back to back as Nightmare continues to
face the ganger.  "I'm just curious, why are you looking for my traitorous
sensai?"

If Nightmare is surprised, it doesn't show.  The young man barely raises an
eyebrow.  Nightmare smiles tightly and says, "I thought I recognized some
elements in your stance.  Just remember, I didn't earn my name for being easy."

The young man smirks and says in German, "That's not what she said, Herr
Nightmare."  The young ganger didn't wait for the young man to finish though
before launching his first attack.  Nightmare at first is barely keeping up
with the kid but as the furry of blows come in he starts keeping completely up
and then starts probing for weaknesses.  You can see a trace of dismay on the
kid's face.

The other young man though has wasted no time.  He apparently had a
monofiliment whip stored in his cyber-hand as he smoothly works the whip.  He
caught the first ganger completely unaware with it.  You watch in amazement as
the two men keep smoothly back to back despite the differences in tatics.
You get a sense of restraint on the part of the younger man in order to not
leave Nightmare's back unguarded.  Soon the tide is turned and it is down to an
even match.  The kid with the katana keeping up with Nightmare (though you
suspect that is partly due to the fact that Nightmare is making sure his
partner doesn't get attacked from behind) and the young man with a monofiliment
whip is up against a guy wielding an axe.  The ganger is trying to lure out the
young man but is so far failing.

Suddenly the kid with the katana actually breaks through Nightmare's defenses
enough to hit Nightmare's right thigh.  He didn't do a lot of damage, but it
will probably slow Nightmare down if he has to run.  Nightmare snarls, and lets
loose with a dangerous attack.  The kid seeing his advantage moves in for the
kill only to be surprised when he gets smacked with what looked like a
lightning bolt.  While the kid is stunned, Nightmare slashes him accross the
stomache.  The kid slowly sinks to his knees.  Nightmare says as he draws a
gun, "Now you know why they call me Nightmare.  Have a nice death."  He then
pulls the trigger and the gun roars.  The bullet takes out most of the kid's
head.

The axe-wielding guy turns and runs.

Young Man (in German):  That was overkill.  You going to be able to run?
Nightmare (in German):  We will find out real quickly because something tells
me they will be back for more.
Young Man:  Oh drek.  Second Wave.
Nightmare:  Reverse footblock time!
Young Man:  WHERE?!?
*Nightmare* Mother, it's mole-time.  Go for plan Cederic, over.
*a masculine voice responds* Roger Nightmare.  You have two different pick-up
points.  If you can go for pre-arranged.  Otherwise tell us where to pick you
up when you surface.  Over.

Young Man: Cover me!

Nightmare starts limping around in a circle as the young man starts to pry off
the sewer cover with his left arm (you suspect the whole thing is cyber).

Young Man says as a shot rings out, "Got it!" ]<<<<<
        -- Scarface <13:00:00/3-7-56>

>>>>>[
+++++ Continuing Drone.dump
You see the young man pry off the manhole cover.  Hearing gunfire, he jumps
into the whole.  Nightmare follows pretty quickly after firing a few useless
shots.

Nightmare (in German): You got increased strength in that arm?
Young man: I'm surprised you don't know.
Nightmare shrugs.
Young man: I'll lead since you're injured.  Try and keep up.

Nightmare follows as best he can.  You think your hear the young man softly
humming something.  You not quite sure what it is but it doesn't sound to
happy.  Soon he stops humming.

Suddenly the young man hits a deep spot and is up to mid-chest in some sort of
liquid-semi liquid stuff.  As he slowly pulls himself off, you can hear a soft
chant begin.  The young man's eyes go wide as he pushes himself back into the
slop.  Something's arm (you hope it is an arm) swing.  It would have connected
with the young man's head if he hadn't moved.  Suddenly your vision is blinded
by a sharp flash that was barely proceeded by a loud clap of thunder you think.
You hear this roar of pain.  Nightmare leaps fowards and slashes with his
sword.  He is greeted with another roar of pain as he too falls into the slop.

Slowly the young man pulls Nightmare back as the "unidentifiable" thing moves
forward.  Nightmare is making some motions but nothing much seems to be happen.
Then there is a bright light and the "thing" is gone.

Nightmare:  That was too close.  Thanks for pulling me back, brother.
Brother:  If I hadn't -- I don't think I would have gotten out alive.

Nightmare merely nods and says, "My leg is going to be a fragging pain to
clean."
Brother: That will depend if we get out of here or not, eh?  Let's move.

---
*Mother*  Turn on your fragging tracers!
*Brother*  We must be jammed.  They are already on.
*A deep voice*  In position.  Come on Blitz.  Surface already!
*Another deep voice*  We are in position too.
*Nightmare*  We're nowhere close to being in position.  Our chasers are
gaining.  We're going surface.  Plan Demo-f.
*A femine voice*  You always this ballsy when you are in trouble?
*Brother*  SHUT UP!
*Mother*  Keep cool.
*Femine voice*  Blitzkrieg don't fall apart on us now.
*Blitzkrieg (otherwise known as young man and brother)*  Shut up, your making
too much noise.
---

Blitzkrieg swears as he trips again.  He quickly climbs a ladder.  You see him
strain for a while against what must be a manhole covering.  Nightmare is still
in the slime with his pistol out.  He is watching mostly behind him.  Finally
Blitzkrieg gets the cover off and climbs out.  Nightmare follows closely
behind.

They have emerged on what you guess is the other side.  Unlike before there are
almost no lights.  Where the streets were crowded with humans before now all
you see are orks, dwarfs and trolls.  Everybody seems to be watching them
carefully.  But nobody is moving toward them.  Quickly, Blitzkrieg puts the
manhole cover back in place.

Nightmare stands up, but it is obvious that he is in pain.  An ork spits out
(in japenese), "You lucky you ain't local man.  If you were you would be dead."
Blitzkrieg nods briefly.

A troll speaks out, "Who is chasing you?"
Nightmare says, "I think a bunch of gangers who wanted our clothes and money."
Troll snorts, "I wouldn't want the clothes right now, but the money might be
nice considering we are going to have to deal with them real soon."

Nightmare reaches into his various pockets and sets down some money.
Blitzkrieg soon follows him.  By the looks of things they have dumped
everything.
Nightmare says, "Enjoy the money!  I'm getting out of here."

As he starts limping away, the manhole cover flies off.  Blitzkrieg bolts in
motion as he grabs Nightmare and starts running.  The only reason Nightmare
keeps up is by the fact that Blitzkrieg is half dragging him.

*Blitzkrieg* We are going in a building.
*Mother* Just found your signal.  Team A go to >>encrypted<<.  You have pull
out.  Team B go to >>encrypted<< as backup.

Blitzkrieg runs into a building and goes up the stairs.  Nightmare's leg is
giving him lots of trouble.  At the second story landing, Blitzkrieg stops and
pulls out a gun.  Nightmare pulls out his.  As quickly as they can safely go
they go up the stairs.  Outside you can hear some gunfire which quickly dies
down.  By the time they are at the third story landing, you hear some people
entering the building.  You note with some surprise that they are conducting a
door-to-door search of the building.  Blitzkrieg silently curses.

By the time they have reached the fifth floor of this run-down building
Blitzkrieg is in a running gunfight.  Nightmare is obviously running out of
steam in it looks like he is losing a lot of blood from the leg wound.  He
enters the hallway.  Blitzkrieg merely follows.
---
*Another man's voice*  We have found them.  Judging by the uproar in area and
gunfire in building, we are going to pull extraction.  Team B head to
>>encrypted<<.
*Feminine voice*  Roger, and be careful Bruce.
*Bruce*  That's why Doomsday's with me.
*Doomsday*  Let's go!
---
Nightmare (in German):  I can't go further.  Go on without me.  I'll buy you
time.
Blitzkrieg (in German):  Sorry Nightmare.  I'm not done with you yet.  You made
my life miserable, the least I can do is the same for you.

Blitzkrieg walks over to a small set of doors.  "Just our luck - a dumbwaiter
shute."  He pries it open.  Nightmare sighs and limps over to it.  Blitzkrieg
helps him in to it.  And soon follows.  Whatever Nightmare said got lost in the
gunfire though.
---
You see a man wearing a trenchcoat.  He is dressed all in black but his face
has a distinctive scar-like grid over it.  Behind him is a troll who is lifting
him up into a window.  With a running leap, the troll, most likely Doomsday,
pulls himself into the window.  He enters just in time for the door to be
broken down by some japanese guy with a gun.  Doomsday merely raises an assault
rifle and fires a relatively silenced burst into the guy.

Doomsday:  I didn' like his 'tude.
Scarface:  I'm going astral to find them.  Watch my body.

Doomsday walks to the doorway and shuts the door and waits a minute or so.
Scarface groans and gets up.

Scarface:  They are in the basement and in hot water.
Doomsday:  Ya lead!
Scarface:  I wonder if we are all getting too old for this drek.

Doomsday opens the door and checks the hallway.  He nods and Scarface bolts out
the door with Doomsday following close.  As Doomsday runs along, someone
shouts (in Japanese), "I hear some running upstairs.  You two check it out."

Scarface pulls out a pistol and says, "Trouble coming our way.  Lead until
basement.  Probably two punks."

Doomsday nods and pulls out an assault rifle.  He quickly loads it and speeds
down the stairs.  Sure enough, two guys come racing up the stairs.  The first
one probably never knew what hit him.  Of course anyone colliding full force
with Doomsday when he is running probably will never know what hits him.  The
second one was able to get out of the way of both the flying punk and Doomsday
only to catch a shoulder in the face from Bruce.  Needless to say, that made a
lot of noise.  Must be something about one person crashing headlessly down the
stairs at full speed followed by a troll running down the stairs, which is in
turn followed by another person falling down the stairs.  Lastly, Scarface
managed to somehow control his decent (by riding the banister down the
starway).

Doomsday quickly peeks through the door at the landing and pops off a
mini-grenade.  You hear an explosions and some screams.  Scarface continues to
run down the stairs.  Doomsday follows.
---
Doomsday:  Dey are slowly catchin' up.
Scarface:  We are almost there.  Go left when we enter the hallway.  I'll radio
you when I'm in position.  Hallway is . . . (he casts something) clear.  Tell
me when you get to the third door on right.

Doomsday nods and runs into the hallway.  Scarface runs down a different
hallway.

*Doomsday* READY!
*Scarface* GO!
*Mother* What?

You watch as Doomsday slams his forearms into the door and push the door in the
wrong direction.  The doors bend a little bit then gives completely by
shattering into thousands of tiny polymer fragments of some sort.  He then
raises his assault rifle and screams, "FREEZE!  DIS A BUST!  MOVE 'N DIE!!"
You see Nightmare on the ground.  He has blood running down from a gash on the
side of his face.  Blitzkrieg is standing over him with a heavy pistol in each
hand.  Blitzkrieg looks frighteningly calm.  Slowly the doors opposite Doomsday
open.  Scarface walks in quietly.  You are amazed that none of the Japanese in
the room notice him as he enters.  The female that was edging to the door
stops as he jams a pistol into her ribs.

In formal japenese he says, "One more move lady, and you'll be dead.  I am
known as Scarface.  I earned this title for having the distinct privelege of
dying four times.  I am prepared to die again, are any of you?  While that
troll is dangerous, he nowhere comes close to the danger that I represent.  Oh.
I forgot to mention that I have some more friends coming.  I figured it
wouldn't be good killing if I didn't feast on your bodies with the rest of my
ghoul pack.  So who should I eat first?"

The japanese gangers look really uneasy.  Blitzkrieg snarls, "Drop your
weapons or I can guarantee you won't survive this."  In the background you can
hear people running.  The japanese start dropping their weapons.  Nightmare
starts to stand up again.  The japanese finish dropping their weapons.
Surprisingly Nightmare quickly moves and pushes all the weapons to the center.

Nightmare and Blitzkrieg move behind Doomsday and out the door.  Scarface backs
out of his door.  Doomsday just grins and fires a mini-grenade at the weapons
and leaps back from the explosion.

*Scarface*  Move to NW quad and Whale.  Bus should be there.

You watch as Doomsday picks up Nightmare and starts running.  Blitzkrieg grabs
his assault rifle and manages to fire another mini-grenade at the people coming
out of the stairway.  They round a corner almost steamrollering Scarface.
Quickly they run up the stairs.

Scarface:  How bad the cover blown?
Blitzkrieg:  Completely.  Everyone notices when you ask any questions that
might be remotely connected to Shadowfox.
Scarface:  Just fragging great.
Nightmare:  When did you join a ghoul pack?
Scarface:  Two minutes ago.

Scarface opens a fire door.  They all run out of it.  You hear a loud shout in
japanese, "There they go.  After them." ]<<<<<
        -- Scarface <13:00:15/3-7-56>

>>>>>[
+++++ Continue drone.dump

Blitzkrieg:  Scarface you lead.  I'll fall back and give them something to think
about.
Scarface:  Just remember -- we all go home or none of us go home.

You watch as Scarface runs ahead with Doomsday, who is carrying Nightmare
still) hot on his heels.  Blitzkrieg turns around and fires off a few more
bursts but he is making sure that he doesn't fall to far behind the others.

Scarface rounds a corner and is greeted by Fenris who is motioning for him to
run to the van.  Quickly they run over and Fenris and a japanesse man help them
into the van.  Blitzkrieg is barely in by the time the van starts to move.
Quickly Fenris starts to shut the door.  Doomsday settles Nightmare down into
the passenger seat and secures him in.  Then he finds the biggest seat and and
starts rummaging in a bag back there.  Fenris starts tending to Nightmare.

Japanese man (in English):  What happened?
Blitzkrieg:  Cover got hosed.  We were too noticable.  Guess we will have to
try a new tatic.  People get real panicky when you start asking about
Shadowfox.  Oukami, what would be grounds for even the officials to take
interest in preventing you from finding someone?
Japanese man (must be Oukami):  Well it really could be anything.  It sounds
almost like someone started a war, and Shadowfox is the prize.
Nightmare (weakly):  Knowing Shadowfox, I would bolt to the least likely spot
and try and gain supporters of any sort before fighting back.
Blitzkrieg:  Yeah the question is, where is that?
Doomsday:  Is he even here?  I mean if he is wanted so badly, why not just skip
da town and try ta get even.
Rebecca:  In that case, why did he purposely send me away?
Nightmare:  He probably feared the danger.
Blitzkrieg:  Which means what?
Nightmare:  Most likely that he is still in country or went somewhere worse?
Scarface: Uhhh guys, cut the talk.  They got drones chasing us . . . Rebecca
get out of the DRIVER'S SEAT NOW!

Scarface rushes over and grabs the wheel as Rebecca gets out of the way.

Scarface:  Drek, we got followers.  Doomsday?

Doomsday stands up and opens up the back doors.  He raises a light machinegun
and starts firing off some bursts.  It looks like he is trying to take out the
drones.  Blitzkrieg starts helping him with the assault rifle.

Fenris:  Someone doesn't want us to get away.
Doomsday:  FRAG!  Dey got a missle launcher.  EVASIVE!

Doomsday reaches forward and slams the door shut.  You can hear the tires
squealing as he swerves to avoid the incoming missles.  The van rocks a little
bit as one gets a little bit to close.  Suddenly a tire blows.

Scarface: BRACE FOR CRASH!
Nightmare: As soon as we stop bolt out of vehicle.

You watch in almost in slow motion as the van tries to make a turn.  But with
the tire out of action, the van rolls into a building.  As the van rolls into a
nearby building Doomsday flys through the van wall and slams into the building.
He barely misses being caught in between the van and the building.

The back doors open up and Fenris, Oukami and Blitzkrieg rush out.

Fenris: INCOMING ROCKETS.

Doomsday reaches down and tears off the van door.  He reaches in and pulls out
Scarface.  Then he reaches back into the van is ripping something.

Scarface: GET CLEAR DOOMSDAY!!

Doomsday pulls out Nightmare just as the rockets slam into the van.  Somehow
Doomsday manages to mostly shield Nightmare's body from the explosions.  The
sheer force though sends them flying though.  Doomsday rolls with the
explosion while continuing to shield Nightmare's body.  He then stumbles to
his feet and manages to walk 5 feet and fall through a plexiglass window.

*Fenris*  Doomsday?

There is no answer within a minute.

Fenris snarls: NO!

Rebecca bolts out from cover and runs over to where Doomsday fell through the
window.  Fenris and Oukami are fast on her heels.  Scarface is left staring in
the direction of where the missles came from.

Blitzkrieg:  Are you okay, Bruce?
Scarface:  Not really.  But I think we need to get out of here.

They start to run over to where the others are, but stop when the notice that
they are surrounded by a lot of people.

Scarface (in Japanese):  Hello.

Blitzkrieg looks extremely tense.

An ork says in gutterspeak of somesort, "You don't belong here.  Who is chasing
you?"

Scarface looks behind him and says, "I'm not quite sure.  I think Yakuza of
some sort.  But I could be wrong."

Ork: Why?
Blitzkrieg:  We were looking for a friend to bring him home and they didn't
like that fact because they want to kill our friend.
Ork: Who?

Blitzkrieg and Scarface share a long look with each other.  They then look
around.  From this view point you can barely see Rebecca.  They are also
surrounded.

Blitzkrieg:  Shadowfox.  His wife (he points to Rebecca) hired us to get him
out of this country before he dies here.

Ork is about to say something and stops.

Ork:  There is a healer a few blocks away from here.  You may take your friends
for healing, if they are alive, while we discuss some stuff.  Don't try and
run.  k?

Scarface (numb) : Thank you for your kindness.

+++++ end drone.dump ]<<<<<
        -- Scarface <13:01:45/3-7-56>

>>>>>[ Whistler.

You are not now, nor ever have been, the Wyrm.  We know the Wyrm, some of
us directly, some of us before his death and transformation, some of us by
reputation only.

You are not him.

Do not try to pass yourself off as him, do not try to use his name to
bolster your image, whether personal or public.  We have never seen his
like, nor do we think we will again for many decades.  In any case, you
are not the Wyrm.  Do not imply otherwise.

Or do so, and know your days are numbered. ]<<<<<
        --  OS^2 (12:35:00/3-7-56)

>>>>>[Entshuldigung Sie bitte, but I am not trying to pass off as the
Wyrm.  I do not even know who this person is.  I was refering to my
ancestral link with Wales and their great symbol, Wyrm.  Do not presume
too much.]<<<<<
        --the Whistler<14:28:47/3-7-56>

>>>>>[boy o' boy, Whistler you are in dear need of a
friend, it seems to me that walkin' on egg shells is not
your forte' is it? you seem to be stepping on every ones
fat pinky toe, I don't know but it seems to me that for a guy with
750k nuyen hanging over your head you are rather insensitive.
take my advice chummer, fade to black...
don't get me wrong, I don't like you but we have no qualms so I don't want
you dead, besides you're too talented not to know when it's time to pull a
fade. just remember what I said.  and if not well just let me know where I'm
to send the flowers.]<<<<<
        -- GoD <17:02:52/03-07-56>

*****PRIVATE: GoD
>>>>>[Oh, the fade will happen.  In fact, it's actually already
started.  I just get my kicks getting into verbal sparring matches; just
ask Freddy.  Usually though, the stakes aren't this high...thanks
anyway.]<<<<<
        --the Whistler<15:19:16/3-7-56>

*****Private: Razor
>>>>>[Thank you for the file, Razor. I could praise your ability, but
you've probably heard it all before <mocking grin>. Seriously: No, do
not, I repeat, do not hit the Puablo Corp *yet*. I might need you to do
so later, but for now I do not want to risk tipping them off on anything
out of the ordinary. Hah, _that_ was a good joke...]<<<<<
     -- Genocide (00:24:43/03-08-56)

*****Private: Genocide
>>>>>[................]<<<<<
     -- Razor <00:52:32/03-07-56>

>>>>>[ And do not presume too much, either.  Your references should be a
bit more ... clear.  Your reputation, so we understand from some of our
own reference datafiles, indicates that you are not sloppy.  Do not become
so, or we will become ... disappointed in you, Whistler. ]<<<<<
        -- OS^2 (14:29:15/3-7-56)

*****NOT TO: Macros the Black, Macros Spotter, Aztlan/Aztechnology Ops
>>>>>[ Mr. Purple, the Whistler:

Macros the Black has been tentatively identified within the Pueblo Sector
of the FRFZ, near the old U.S. Air Force Academy.  If he is caught/eliminated
by the two of you within ten klicks of that location, renumeration will
be increased by 15  However, we understand -- and can now confirm --
that his target or targets are indeed within Aztechnology.  We request
that you delay any movement upon Macros and/or Macros Spotter until he
has completed his current assignment. ]<<<<<
        --  OS^2 (15:50:15/3-7-56)

*****PRIVATE: Zactof
>>>>>[Hey, Zac. I just got out of prison this morning. I tried calling
the farm several times but nobody was home. Can I use the place to stay
for a couple days. I'm gonna put out a couple of feelers for work in
Tir Na Nog.]<<<<<
         -- Sneakthief (20:05:13 CST / 3-7-56)

*****PRIVATE: Sneakthief
>>>>>[Flute and I are in Tir Na Nog right now at >>encrypted<<. Kovak
is dead, but he got Martel. Use the farm, if you need it. If you can't
pick the lock, ShadowPriest at >>encrypted<< has a key. There's a cred-
stick with 1K on it at the house. Use it to get yourself a flight out
here on Thursday. I'll pay for the hotel. Flute wants to see you anyways.

Before I go, I thought the Judge gave you five years?...]<<<<<
         -- Zactof (02:14:25 GMT / 3-8-56)

*****PRIVATE: Zactof
>>>>>[Hey, Zac. I just got outta prison and I'm in Carbondale. Is
anyone at the farm? If not can I stay out there for a couple of days
until I can get some work in Tir Na Nog?]<<<<<
        -- Sneakthief (20:45:13 CST / 3-7-56)

*****PRIVATE: Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[I still stand by my statement that the truck sucks. The launcher is
quite good, as far as I'm concerned, but I'd mount it on another vehicle if
I were you.]<<<<<
        -- Gurth (11:15:07/3-8-56)

*****PRIVATE: The Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[I like this one better, though my advice is to go for the Czech RM-70
instead -- very similar but it reloads much faster 'cause you don't have to
insert all the rockets by hand.]<<<<<
        -- Gurth (11:20:01/3-8-56)

>>>>>[Morning out there in Shadowland!  I just warmed up the ol' trid
this beautiful, cold as a wiccan's hind end morning to catch the tail
end of NewsNet's cycle.  I managed to have the darn thing recordin'
when it came around again.  I've cut to the juicy part.

+++++ BEGIN TRID

"Amature radio operators in Seattle reported early this morning of
receiving distress calls for the Polar Ozone Observation station on
the Arctic ice flows.  One operator, Charlie Laughing-Bear, called
NewsNet's Seattle office with a recording of the last transmission.

'<garbled> -zone Observation to ANYONE on this ***BLEEP***-in'
channel!  Somethin's happened to Tallisch.  I don't know.  He's
talkin' about killin' us all.  He's already ***BLEEP***-ed in the
potable water and trashed the chopper.  Now he's killin' the dogs.
Keeps yellin' about 'em tryin' to eat 'im last night.  Omigod -
omigod - omigod - he's right outside.   NOOOO-'

Shiawese Environmental, the corporation funding the project, has not
returned any of NewsNet's calls.

In other news today, the LAPD battled food rioters on the steps of
the Marcia Shapiro Memorial Court House in downtown Los Angeles
after the nineteen-day protest of...."

+++++ END TRID

Sure, somebody flips out at a research station at the top of the
world - "cabin fever" ya say, right?  Well, imagine cabin fever with
all of the goodies that are really up there.  Sure, Shiawese
Environmental claims to own the station, but it's really one of
Shiowese Biotech's facilities.  They been studying mind control
technology.  Beaming ultra-low frequency radio waves towards Japan
to make the people there flip out.  They've protected their own
people - or at least some of 'em - with regular sound filters.

You don't believe me?  Check NN for yourself.  The blurb should just
about be on again.

Fun and games - blood and circuses.]<<<<<
        -- Rumormonger (09:22:23 / 03-08-56)

>>>>>[ Wha's wrong wiv this Shadowtalk node? Its fulla fraggin' encrypted
messages! Dis wouldna' happen in Denver. Fraggin Seattle]<<<<<
        -- Brocken Bone (18:26:23/03-02-56)

>>>>>[Can anyone recommend a good bodygaurd. Due to an
 unexpected visitor I am forced to replace my present
babysitter for my daughters. I wouldn't normal post such a
notice here but unfortunatly the vistor required my fixer
to make an unscheduled trip to her local DocWagon hospital.
All help will be appricated and natural the giver will be
reimberssed for there time. ]<<<<<
     - - Mist (16:00:23/08-MAR-56)

>>>>>[Reminds me of an old television show I saw on the classics channel.
 What was it called?  The X-Miles?  I can never remember these types of
things...]<<<<<
        -- TTIOT (09:15:34/3-9-56)

*****PRIVATE: Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[Hey, Xenophiliac, you might have torched six vehicles but, adding the
casualties you received in the first barrage to that badly ordered counter
attack, the amount of damage that we caused in both _HIGH_ numbers of wounded
and KIA, along with the drop in morale and increase in men with shell shock,
six vehicles is a cheap price to pay. Note, you only got six, how come you
let the last two get away. The 6/66 Division (Mercenary) is the best and
Mexico will be free from the tyranny of Aztlan>!<<<<<]
       -- (Major) James Campbell, 6/66th, (19:40:45/8-3-56)

>>>>>[ Yeah, riiiiight, buddy. Lissen, hombre, that ain't th'
half of it. They got those damn saddle-ites up there broadcastin'
low-frequency subliminals ta' get us ta' work, reproduce, an' eat
more Nutrasoy. And you can quote me on that. ]<<<<<
        -- Gator <13:25:12/02-08-56>

***** NOT TO: Rumormonger
>>>>>[Heck, I hope he does, too. Hee heee hee stoopid newsies. ]<<<<<
        -- Gator <13:27:32/02-08-56>

>>>>>[ Well the news today on DE is:

The FBI has their top lawyer taking the case against DragonEyes.  They have
managed to convince the court to schedule the preliminary hearings for this
coming Monday morning.  DragonEyes was able to hire a top-rate defense lawyer
who was unavailable for comment.

On the other side of things, there has been noticible grumblings from Doc Wagon
(tm).  An official who asked to be unnamed said, "I don't [censored] believe
that DragonEyes would do that sort of [censored].  It just isn't like him."
The offical, however, refused to comment about the fact that the lawyer that
DragonEyes had hired has not too subtle connections with Doc Wagon (tm).

Just released a few minutes ago was the first official press release from the
FBI about the whole issue:

"The individual known as DragonEyes is a most dangerous individual.  While
claiming to hate violence, he has managed to kill or set events to take place
that took the life of 23 agents.  In addition to this, he managed to steal
certain vehicles that represent a clear and present danger to the average
citizen.  Those vehicles are still at large.

"While it is true that he was caught by upstanding Lone Star Security officers
for breaking and entering the house of one Jason Stormwind, we felt it was
necessary for the reasons above to extradite him." ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <14:27:01/3-8-56>

*****PRIVATE: Mr. Purple, OS^2
>>>>>[Confirmed presence of Macross Spotter in Pueblo Zone.  Have him
under surveillance, relocating to Pueblo Zone to be closer to target.

Permission, with prejudice, to stop assassination if it appears 1) as if
the death of the target will cause too many problems, and 2) if possible
without endangering mission.  Negative response will be understood and
followed.

Once targets are captured, what are the orders]<<<<<
        --the Whistler<15:38:55/3-8-56>

>>>>>[ OS^2,  get real.  A name is a name.  At the moment there are atleast 3
other deckers going by the handle Wyrm, 2 of them had no idea who Ouroboros
was, and the third took the name in hopes to honor a decker he idiolized.  Their
are also atleast 4 deckers with variations on Wyrm, like Black Wyrm.  I also
know of two Sam's in Seattle known as Wyrm.  Like it or not, its a very common
name and one that people seem to like.  Like it or not, people will use it or
make references to different variations.  Hell, what are you goinf to do, try
and track down every single druid who follows the Totem Wyrm?

Names that sound interesting will be used by many people.  My handle of Spirit
is also the handle of one of the Sysops at the Nexus, it has caused some
confusion, but most of the time people know you your trying to talk about.

In the world of the shadows, people continually change their names for flair,
safety and distinction.]<<<<<
        -- Spirit <Of the Matrix>

*****PRIVATE: Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[Hey, some of the details on the vehicles seem to be out of line. Is this
the sysop, or is someone trying to stop some of these details getting through
to us. You've all ready seen that people such as Xenophiliac don't like some
of the things we say (don't you hate sore losers?), so maybe we should all be
a bit more carefull. Any of you guys got ideas?<<<<<]
     -- James Campbell (20:04:25/8-3-56)

>>>>>[ While I'm on the news kick, I found this interesting little vid-clip.
All the talking is done in German, so I provided subtitles for all of you out
there who can't speak German.

+++++ Download? y
+++++ What? video
+++++ Video download completed.
+++++ Display video? y

The image is blurry for a second.  You see a well-built man sitting at a desk,
doing -- well doing paper-work.  He is wearing a fancy three-piece suit and his
desk looks to be made out of real Mahogony.  He has greying-black hair and is
clean shaven.

You hear a beep from the desk.  The man pushes a button by his light and says,
"Yes?"

A deep slightly distorted voice says,  "We have brought the guest."

The guy at the desk sighs.  He then pushes the button and says, "One second."
You watch the man get up and take off his suit jacket.  Fairly quickly he puts
on an armored vest.  He then replaces his jacket.  Calmly he sits back down at
the desk.  He pushes the button again and says, "Enter."

The door opens and three people enter -- two trolls decked out in Military
grade armor escorting a human wearing prisoner clothes.  The human is broad,
decently tall human.  He is completely clean shaven.  He would fit in to a
football team very well.  He is wearing a plain-grey jumpsuit but is wearing no
shoes.  His feet are noticible cyber-replacements.  His blue-gray eyes are
void of any emotion, but are not drugged up eyes.

The man at the desk says, "Greetings, Herr HAMMER."

The other human, HAMMER you assume, says, "Greetings, Herr Director."

The Director smiles faintly and says, "I regret to say this -- but you are too
big of a security risk.  For everyone's safety, I think it is best if you
reconsider what you want to do with your life."

HAMMER snarls, "You bastard!  You are getting rid of me based on random acts of
terrorism!  How dare you?!?"

The Director grins and says, "Yes, that is correct.  You are hereby fired.  You
are a security risk that I refuse to have working in the government."

HAMMER tries to reach the Director but is restrained by the trolls.  He
screams, "YOU ARE THE RISK!  YOU ARE KILLING THIS COUNTRY AND RATHER THAN DOING
ANYTHING ABOUT IT -- YOU ARE SITTING ON YOUR ASS!"  You can see him straining
to get free.  You wonder if he is going to burst a blood vessel in his neck, by
straining so hard.  "I'm going to fragging kill you, Erik."

Erik glares at HAMMER, "I'm afraid you won't get that chance Herr HAMMER."

HAMMER: You use me to frame Nightmare as a traitor.  You use Blitzkrieg as a
pawn to pull you up in the structure.  But I won't go that easily.

Erik: You already have, you fool.  You were working with MET2000 before
Doomsday sideswipped you.  But that just proved you are inept.  Even they won't
want to help you.  Face it, you are past tense.  You're career is finished.
Even you nazi-pukes that you like to hang with won't help you now.  Not only
did you have the vampire Action Jackson in your grasp, you had Nightmare in it
too.

HAMMER: Nightmare was a threat to you.  Not to me.  At least not until I framed
him for you.

Erik:  And now Doomsday conviently has removed you from being reliable.

HAMMER: I won't let you get away with this.

Erik:  That is what Nightmare said, you miserable slot.  You and he always
resented the fact that I ended up with the director's position.  You and he
never realized what danger I represent.  Face it, they would never let a man
from operation run things.  You two are just convient tools.  I shaped you, and
I'll use you like I damn well please.

HAMMER (still straining to get free):  I'm not through yet.  But before I'm
done Nightmare, Doomsday, the miserable little brat Blitzkrieg and all their
little pals will be dead.  YOU -- you will be first though.

Erik:  That would be the case assuming you will survive this.  But you won't.

HAMMER (stops straining):  Oh really?

Erik (raising a gun from his desk): Yes.

HAMMER: Savior this moment.  For your victories will all pale real soon.

+++++ Sound cuts out from the image as the armored window behind Erik blows
+++++ out.  Running toward the window is an elf holding a pistol and an ork
+++++ an assault rifle.

Erik turns around in surprise as the elf comes jumping through where the window
would have been.  He lands next to Erik and snarls, "Have a nice death!"  He
then slams the barrel of the gun under his mouth and fires it -- splattering
Erik's brains all over the desk.  The trolls start toward the elf only to have
HAMMER break free as the ork opens fire on one of the trolls.  By the time the
troll on the left has reached the elf, HAMMER has leaped out of the window onto
the rooftop.  The elf quickly back flips as the two trolls try and nail him.
Quickly they run for cover as the trolls try to kill them.  Unfortunately, the
trolls are just to slow.

Right when they were about to nail the ork who is keeping backgaurd, the ork
threw a grenade into the room which stopped the trolls for a bit.  By the time
the trolls get back up on their feet you can hear a human yell in the distance
"YOU'RE NEXT DOOMSDAY!" ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <15:45:30/3-8-56>

*****PRIVATE: Mist
>>>>>[Where and how long?]<<<<<
       -- Sneakthief (17:50:13 CST / 3-8-56)

>>>>>[Well ya know, hun, there's always Jolly Roger's Shadowsittin' Service. Guaranteed
not to kill 'em. Least, so long as they ain't bloodsuckers.

<oversized, exceptionally ghoulish ork grin enclosed>]<<<<<
          --  Jolly Roger <18:00:12 / 03-08-56>

>>>>>[If only you knew...]<<<<<
        --  Mulder <17:58:26/03-08-56>
            Special Agent
            UCAS FBI

*****Private:the Whistler
>>>>>[Spring Rivers and I will follow your lead on this.  Just tell me where
you want us to be and what you want us to do.  We're currently at
<encrypted> in the Pueblo Sector.  Still no information on specifics of the
target.]<<<<<
        --  Mr. Purple <18:11:43/03-08-56>

*****PRIVATE:  Mr. Purple, the Whistler
>>>>>[ Whistler, repeat: You have Macros Spotter identified and under
surveilance?  Gender confirmed as 'he'??  If so, break off surveilance
immediately and get out of the sector. If the target is masculine, then
you are being set up.

We are not sure of the precise identity of the target, and so cannot
confirm or deny projected difficulties resulting in his/her/its
termination.  If the two are apprehended, however, ensure their IDs
and security, then notify us.  Extreme sanction is, however, approved
if you are in too much trouble. ]<<<<<
        --  OS^2 (18:02:46/3-8-56)

>>>>>[ And, it would seem, stupidity, Spirit/Matrix.  We are glad we are not
a part of ... what did we call it?  Oh.  'Normal society'.  Well, some of us
are not a part of it.  That is why we have the rest of us, to interact with
the rest of you.  We cannot, after all, do everything.

And yes, we know well of Spirit.  She comes close to understanding the Great
Forms.  Bash has no idea, although Kap'n Kludge and Shiva are much better
than he is. ]<<<<<
        --  OS^2 (18:34:35/3-7-56)

*****PRIVATE: Underworld Opera Advisory Committee
>>>>>[ Campbell, you goon, are you literate or not?  Xeno_philiac_, you
stupid muckhead.  The 6/66th never could read.  And six out of eight is
never a good price to pay when you're up against the Azzies.  I remember
how you puked -- frag, we all did -- when we saw how they gutted the
survivors.  Just remember that the Dragon's Dragoons got _your_ hoop out
of the fire that day, neh?]<<<<<
        --  Xenophiliac <18:14:49/3-8-56>
            Sergeant
            Dragon's Dragoons

***** PRIVATE: Macros the Black, Spotter Macros
>>>>>[You both are in danger.  This danger comes in the form of a combat
mage by the name of the Whistler and an unknown by the name of Mr. Purple.

Good information is worthwhile, and all information costs.  This information
is being given in hopes of setting up a meeting with Macros sometime
in the very near future.  I dont have a deal, nor do I really have a
plan but you have information that I would like to have and will gladly
pay for it.  As an act of faith, I give you this  --

+++++ Include: tW.info (limited)
+++++ Include: SLBBS.os2mail

You have been made.  Your cover is blown but you are likely to be able
to continue with your target.  If you have been under for as long as
I think you have, you have been out of contact with mail.  I hope this
gets to you  --

I need a meeting with Macros ASAP.  I propose an astral meeting
(my sources, limited as they are, assure me that you are at the least
active and this should be possible for you) within the next week
or so.]<<<<<
        -- Gunner <05:38:11 / 03-09-56>

+++++Trace call.

*****PRIVATE:Sneakthief
>>>>>[Mr.Sneakthief the contract will be for one month in Seattle
while i take care of some out of town business. Would like to meet to
discuss details as there are a few complications. Come to the Sewards
club downtown this evening and ask for Mr.Carfax. You will be
expected.]<<<<<
        --  Mist (12:30:47/9-MAR-56)

*****PRIVATE:Salamander
>>>>>[Salamander could you do a credentials check on on Sneakthief
ASAP. I've included a traced number. By the way that new Trace
program of yours worked a treat.]<<<<<
         --  Mist (12:32:06/9-MAR-95)

>>>>>[ Interesting aside from the "DragonEyes" story . . .

Lone Star and Knight Errante went a little head-to-head after a sniper almost
succeeded in killing a veep from Ares Macrotechnologies.  Amazingly, someone
managed to catch the whole little thing on video.  I wonder who managed to
to tape it?  Scourge any ideas on where the video came from?

Anyway, without further ado. . .

+++++ Upload video? y
+++++ Display video? y

You are greeted by a wonderful view of looking down Philadelphia Avenue in what
must be wonderful DeeCee.  Slowly the view moves down the street until it stops
in front of what looks to be a fancy restaurant called "The Seasons."  Doing a
quick check on the restaurant guide a few nodes down, you realize that "The
Seasons" is one of those restaurants that caters to corporate executives that
like a relaxing atmosphere to dine in.  The music and cuisine change daily to
give the corporate execs a feeling of fleeting temporalness.

Anyway, after a few dull moments of just looking at the outside of the
restaurant, a limo pulls up to the curb outside the restaurant.  You note dryly
that there are at least two chase cars around in the area that are not so
subtly watching the limo.

Another minute passes.  Out walks a dwarf flanked by two obvious ork
bodyguards.  The grunts are pretty damn good and seem to be the usual alert
without appearing panicked by anything.  The dwarf -- he is sharply dressed in
a conservitive three-piece pinstripe suit with mirror shades on.  His black
hair is slicked back into a small ponytail, and he has a goutee as well.  The
only other notable thing about him is that he has a datajack, and -- well that
isn't too out of the ordinary, now is it?

The dwarf calmly walks out to the limo.  Suddenly one of the ork bodyguards
looks extremely alert -- almost like he senses something is wrong.  He gives a
hard push to the dwarf, which sends the dwarf flying toward the limo.  The
ork's hand disappears in a puff of blood.  He screams in pain.  The other ork
grabs the dwarf and literally throws the dwarf into the waiting the limo.  The
hurt ork drops to the ground, and scrambles toward the limo.  The non-hurt ork
picks him up and they both get into the limo.  The limo races off. The two cars
follow it away.

+++++ End of Video

Well, LSS and KE weren't to thrilled that the other was there, but from what I
gathered, they at this time have only figured out from where the sniper
_might_ have taken the shot.  No clue as to motives or anything else. ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <12:00:00/3-9-56>

***** Private: Ratspeak
>>>>>[ That was my fragging head that bullet was aimed at.  No, I do not have a
clue as to who fired it.  Unfortunately, I cannot dig around with arousing too
many suspicions.  I'll do some digging, but maybe you could help me out by
looking yourself. ]<<<<<
        -- Scourge <12:01:00/3-9-56>

***** Private: Scourge
>>>>>[ I'm glad you are okay, then.  Never saw you in rl before.  Sure I'll
help you out.  After all, you got me out of Germany in a hurry. ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <12:02:00/3-9-56>

>>>>>[ Yes, OS^2, 'normal society' can seem at times very boring compared to the
matrix.  The matrix is a realm where dreams and imagination runs true, yet it is
still based upon the realworld and controlled by those in it.  I learned at a
very early age that the matrix was just a game, a dream if you will, a game that
can kill, but one where thoughts reign supreme and where we are limited only by
the machines we use to be there.  But in many ways, the dream world of the
matrix pales to the real.  For while the real world has pain and death ion the
body and soul, it is also full of life and happiness.  The matrix could not
exist without the real world, and the real world should not exist without dreams
to give it hope and meaning.]<<<<<
        -- Spirit <Of the Matrix>

***** PRIVATE: Scourge
>>>>>[  Just thought I would drop a little post operation report to you.
Everything from my end went smoothly.  I'll expect payment delivered to
the agreed upon location.  If you ever require my services again, you
may contact me through >>encrypted<<.  It's been a pleasure.  ]<<<<<
        -- Revenant < 19:25:09/3-09-56 >

>>>>>[Hey, Mulder, you wouldn't happen to know a fellow in the NSA who goes by
the name of Green would ya?]<<<<<
        -- Irish <14:07:07/09-03-56>

***** PRIVATE: Maxim Crew
>>>>>[Those Maxim fraggers play nasty games.  Last night someone shot a pair of
gernades through my window, damn things had been disarmed, but it still nearly
turned my hair white.  I thought I had enough eneimes!  Any of you know a good
place I could send Erika so's she's not in the firing line?]<<<<<
        -- Irish <14:15:59/09-03-56>

>>>>>[So, Spirit, I take it you have found a way to demonstrate that a tree makes no
sound if it falls in the woods with no one to hear it? For after all, that is what you
are claiming. To my knowledge, there exist no methods by which you can demonstrate that
this "reality" we have tapped would cease to exist were we to abandon it...]<<<<<
          -- Ripple <>

*****PRIVATE: Mist
>>>>>[I would be pleased to offer my services as protector and defender of
life and limb for your flesh and blood.  My qualifications are numerous, and
my usual clientele is quite prestigious, but I am looking for a little time
for "normal" jobs.  If you would like to know more about my services, please
call me at >>encrypted<<.  Thank you.]<<<<<
        --Buzzard (21:47:22/03-09-56)

*****PRIVATE: Mr. Purple, OS^2
>>>>>[Frag.  All information indicated male subject was Macross Spotter.

+++++include spotter.pic

This was an aerial photograph of said subject.  Confirm identity as not
Macross Spotter or Macross the Black?

Purple, you and Spring Fresh Feeling or whatever the name was just sit
tight and be ready to move.  I need you to supply me with a ground line
(telephone) with which I can reach you in a moments notice.

This whole thing is starting to turn sour and I don't like it.  My life
is hellish enough as it is.

OS^2, given Macross the Blacks surmised position, do you believe it
possible his target is within the Nexus itself?  I don't find the
possibility very high, but possible.  The deaths of one of the Sysops
could be very detrimental, at least in the short term.  Please reply with
best analysis.]<<<<<
        --the Whistler<21:39:31/3-9-56>

*****PRIVATE: Mist
>>>>>[I can make it out to Seattle for two days. I'm an ex-Ucas Marine. I was
trained as a ranger. I also have skills in Biotech, electronics
machining, and demolitions by the late Kovak. I'm in Carbondale
right now. I have to help maintain a farm so the disscusion will have
to be by the mail.

Zactof, J
Jonesy and Tunnel-Rat will all vouch for me.]<<<<<
          -- Sneakthief (08:50:13 CST / 3-10-56)

>>>>>[Well, well, well, skeptics.  A friend of a friend of a fly
on the wall at the Shiawese offices downtown's told me they sortied a
quick response crisis team up north early yesterday morning.

The really neat thing about Shiawese quick repsonse teams is that
each team has got a small staff of lawyers as a part of their TO&E
along with as much mil-spec gear as you'd expect from corporate
hitters.....  Just in case you're wondering.

Did anybody notice how NewsNet only ran the blur once more after I
made my recording?  Wonder if somebody politely asked for the plug to
be pulled?]<<<<<
        -- Rumormonger (09:59:59 / 03-10-56)

>>>>>[And on the subject of plug pulling, I was listening to my police
scanner - well okay, so it was a tap I put in the Lone Star dispatch
system, but it's the same idea - just in time to catch somebody
calling in a "suicide".  Seems good ole Charlie Laughing-Bear
accidently shot himself behind the left ear at least twice with a
large calibre, handgun - from the distance of at least four feet, by
the lack of powder burns or residue.

Determined old fart, wasn't he?

Charlie Laughing-Bear being the guy who cued in NN to the unfortunate
goings on up north, if you'll recall....]<<<<<
        -- Rumormonger (11:31:34 / 03-10-56)

***** Private: Scourge
>>>>>[ Just thought I would warn you . . . I'm about to tell them that
the victim of the sniping was you.  After all, with just a little bit
of digging and cross-checked with the stuff around the time of
Pittsburgh will give anyone the full detail that it was you who
were shot at. ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <10:06:00/3-10-56>

>>>>>[ *grumble* ]<<<<<
        -- Scourge <10:07:27/3-10-56>

>>>>>[ Well folks, I did a little more digging and I found out
one thing of note about who was sniped at yesterday.  It was Scourge.
Still checking out the various possible leads for info as to who
was responsible.  I'll keep you posted on any developments in
my "investigation."

A little bit of DragonEyes news.  Apparently someone tried to kill
him while he was being held for the trial.  The attempt failed but
in response they moved him to solitary confinement.

Why do I feel like I am turning into a media-lackey?  Sigh. ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <10:10:56/3-10-56>

>>>>>[Am I the only one that cares?

Scourge, are you okay?  Like, gee wiz, people, someone tried to kill him
for Goodnessake.  Is the body guard guy alright?]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <18:13:13 / 03-10-56>

>>>>>[Hey, Trixie, I like your subject header.  Wasn't that a song back, oh,
fifty years ago or so?]<<<<<
       --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[ *grumble*  A little bruised for being handled like a fragging
piece of luggage, but I'm glad I am still alive.  The bodyguard
is receiving treatment, but he should be okay. ]<<<<<
        -- Scourge <10:19:48/3-10-56>

***** PRIVATE: Scourge
>>>>>[Dinguwa-Om  Miwa Minawa

Now that I have that out of my system.

There is a lot to be said for beginners luck.  Either that or security for
Ares over here is useless.  We managed to pull off the job (more like cake
walk compared to anything I've done while with AZT).

That woman, I tell ya, is amazing.  I have NEVER seen anyone stare down two
semi-seasoned runners and walk away from it clean.  Originally they
wanted to just shoot the place up and be done with it but she
stuck to her guns and came up with the most juvenile plan I have ever been
privy to see in action.  Ok, get this  --  We get a truck, we pretend to
deliver something, then two people sneak in and get the data.

So simple even Sprinkler was a little skeptical (he's never done anything
physical in his life.  His heart rate stayed a constant 220 the entire time
we were inside).

Hold on a second...

+++++ Link Terminated  --  Time Out]<<<<<
        -- Gunner <18:16:39 / 10-MAR-56>

>>>>>[Totally cool!  You are up on your music.  Maybe you are cooler than
I thought.

Yeah, it was.  I like the older stuff myself.  Been building my collection
since I was about 15 or so.  Its kinda hard to find Compact Discs with
music on them these days.  I even have a player or two that I repaired.

Forgive me, SysOpus

+++++ Include:  SunglassesAtNight

Enjoy, everyone]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <18:30:25 / 03-10-56>

>>>>>[Hey, better to be treated like a side of beef than to be one.

So, who's soycaf did you piss in to get them so annoyed with you?]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <18:33:27 / 03-10-56>

>>>>>[Chris, don't remind me.  Those are the years that I've been
seein' pschrinks to try an' forget....  The music just sucked way too
much.

An' Trix, I can't believe YOU of all people listens to that
muzak-esque crap!  Bah-ha-ha-ha-ha!

Oh man, can I make you a deal on old music.  But it doesn't
sound like you'd like any of it. <snicker>  Mostly old classic
rock: Zeppelin, Hendrix, Floyd.  Well, it's on CD so natch it
isn't original....]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (14:23:33 / 03-10-56)
           President
           Frypp Security, Inc. (CFSM Uplink #5150)

>>>>>[Hendrix is so WHIZ!

Like, I'm so totally sure you listed to that stuff when you were younger.
Yeah, thats excactly the type of stuff that I like.  WHAT is it going
to cost me to get you to part with such incredible music?

I think this "ultra-synthed" crap they play these days takes NO talent what
so ever.  Jimi (or is it Jimmy?  The history books spell it both ways and
I have never seen an original copy of any of his music) was a total
artist when it came to guitar playing.  It was him, his guitar, and his
amplifier.  That was it.  No computer to correct the inconsistancies that are
bound to creep in.  Nothing to modify the tempo for you.  Hell, anyone
can pick up a synth these days, plug it in, and make a living playing
"music".

Ill make a deal with you -- someone in the office has a jones for old movies
and I know you like the old stuff  --  How about we work out a trade?  That
goes for everyone else too  --  I like the old stuff.  If you have some for
sale or trade, drop me a line.]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <20:14:17 / 03-10-56>

>>>>>[Yeah, I liked Hendrix.  One could say that, yes...

+++++ Audio Upload: "All Along The Watchtower"

What's really awesome is that Hendrix was left-handed.  Just like some other
people I know.

By the way, everybody, I'm in a damn good mood.]<<<<<
         --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[I am phenomenally cool, you mean you hadn't figured that out yet?]<<<<<
        --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[Hey, it could be worse, Freddy.

I have an Led Zeppelin LP around here somewhere.]<<<<<
        --  Christopher Tarleton <Dark/Angel>

>>>>>[Hoi Chummers!  It's been a while since I logged in so whats giong on.  I decided to take a small "vacation"
so that I would stay "healthy".  What's the buz on the streets?]<<<<<
       --Mad Meriadoc <14:17:49/03-11-57>

>>>>>[Stange things are afoot.  I scammed this blurb from the March 20
issue of _Thaumaturgy Week_.

NACS Names Yoshida as New Head
In a surprise move, the North American Coalition of Shamen has named Dr.
Joseph Yoshida, Eagle Shaman and President of Yoshida Technologies, as
the new head of the organization.  Yoshida replaces Dr. Charles Wisdel
who was killed while visiting family in Chicago last November.

"We're not so much surprised by Yoshida's appointment because we feel he's
unqualified," quoted Sandra White-Deer.  "Quite the contrary.  Joseph's
academic, social, and political accomplishments are in many ways the stuff
of legend.  But, is also well known that he is just an adept, and this
represents the first time that an adept has been elevated to this
position."

"I understand the concerns that are being raised," spoke Yoshida during
his acceptance, "and I hope that we can all work together to get over
them.  I vow to use all my talents to maintain the high quality work and
presence that Charles always called for."

Yoshida, who had planned on retiring this summer, quipped "Now at least I
won't get bored".  Yoshida technologies will be turned over to his son,
Norman.  Norman is also an Eagle, but unlike his father, is a full shaman.

Yoshida Tech stock jumped 1 1/8 points following the announcement.]<<<<<
        -- Wolf 359 <22:25:03 / 03-11-56>

>>>>>[What is a LP, Chris?]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <09:05:47 / 03-12-56>

*****PRIVATE: Trixie
>>>>>[A few weeks ago I sent you a code to help you with your
deck and you told me a little about IT&M (I thinks thats the name.) Does
IT&M offer any classes in Matrix tech and programming?]<<<<<
         -- Flute (Testy / Temper)

>>>>>[hey, I know non-of you will belive this but I think I have the only
8-track player and complete 8-track hendrix collection....
 now to make it work.......]<<<<<
       -- GoD < 19:12:21 EST/ 03-12-56>

>>>>>[Well, I suppose congratulations are in order. A pity about
the old man, but that, I suppose, is the price of progress.

Oh yes, and Norman? We're watching you too.

Don't call us, we'll call you.]<<<<<
        --whiteout <NO T/D STAMP>

>>>>>[What do you think you're doing! Get Off! Now!]<<<<<
<<LINK TERMINATED>>
        --NO SIG.FILE <NO T/D STAMP>

>>>>>[Liked Hendrix?  Christ, I LIVED Hendrix for a few years.  I even
made a roadtrip to his grave and burned a guitar in remembrance.

Hell, I remember my senior year of high school - tough to believe,
ain't it?  The English teacher actually let me get away with
doing a report on Jimi when everybody else was doin' Longfellow,
Poe and Shelly.

Trixie, there ain't a Cubs-Chance-Of-Winning-the-Series that I'd part
with my CDs (unless there's some vintage (say... 1978) Italian, or
even Swedish, skin flicks in with those old movies <grin>).

And, hey Chris, not only was he left-handed, he played a right-handed
guitar left-handed - about the samw way I type.......

Eight-tracks are BF (Before Freddy, for the uninitiated out there),
GoD, so I can't help you there.  I'm old, but not THAT old.  I
supposse they might have been state of the art when I was born, but I
don't even remember when tapes phased 'em out.

Waitasec, did somebody say a Zep LP?  Real VINYL?  Which one?
<drool>]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (18:30:30 / 03-12-56)
           President
           Frypp Security, Inc. (CFSM Uplink #5150)

>>>>>[Sorry about that last message.  My deck is on the fritz and the internal clock got messed up.]<<<<<
       --Mad Meriadoc <19:24:00/03/12/56>

*****PRIVATE: Jolly Roger
>>>>>[I'm sorry Roger, it's been hard out here... imagine, if you can,
seeing the Wild Hunt sweep from the hills toward you in its ghostly fashion,
twice... all within the space of fifteen minutes. It has been -- trying --
living through these moments, and they have returned regularly, the ones
with the extreme emotional charge, and the ones with profound intellectual
impact. They return and play themselves out upon my senses like some
perverse simsense, with me trapped inside the body of the suffering
martyr... all the more intense for its reality.

And then there is the other... at times, I get kicked into the astral rather
than returning... not projecting really, but being wrenched into the
metaplanes, dragged howling past the demonic forms of the guardian and
hurled into realms of innuendo and metameaning. I have understood so much...
yes, I agree that Damballah is not entirely to be trusted, but I understand
him. I have come to understand how Snake binds the whole, wrapped about the
known spheres, biting His tail. And still further, I have come to understand
you, Roger, and the quixotic relationship between being and non-being that
your loa commands, and the manner in which you seek to rend the Veil of
Isis. But as to what I have experienced -- I could not begin to ascribe it
qualities, let alone quantify it.

I thank you for your warning about those men seeking me. They... will be
dealt with in time, I think. For now, they bear me no threat. But I ask more
importantly: what has become of Kim? I have not seen him since I fled for
the Tir; even then, my eyes were closed. Have you seen him? Has he come
around yet? I have been so blind to all but my passions; I can hardly
forgive my lapse in assisting him.

The last question, I dread asking. I... I am concerned about Siothrun. He
was not well when I left him, and I didn't have much hope of him surviving.
Tell me my fears were misplaced? Surely I will never be able to face him the
same way again, but I remain worried, in some almost sisterly sense. Have
you heard of him? Or could you, perhaps, contact his parents, and see if
perhaps they have heard?

I must go now. STREETWOLF is sending me for take-out again. He claims that
the trips will do me good, though I myself am not so certain that he doesn't
just want me away from him. And I am fairly sure that he only sends me
because he can't bear to be elsewhere should Sean awaken. Please write
soon!]<<<<<
        --  Shekhinah <05:21:32 GMT / 13-Mr-56>

>>>>>[I... I guess I'm sorry for the long silence. I'm sure there are plenty
of folks out there who are wondering what's happening with all of us here in
the Tir. And from trying to sort out the backlog of messaging, I recognize
that I don't even really know the half of it. It's kind of frightening,
realizing how long I've been... unfocussed. It still shakes me up every once
in a while, but I'm beginning to feel like... like I've got a grip on the
edges of my mind now.

Kerran is still not doing all that well. He's stable... sort of, at least.
He lapses with unerring frequency. It only requires the thought of moving
him to send him into shock again. Nevertheless, we can say with some degree
of certainty that he will live. So I suppose you can go ahead with the new
chip... he'll only gripe for a week or two when he discovers his rougher
mixes have been included with the produced stuff. And whenever you manage to
get free of the contract, you might consider moving labels. I myself am
sorely tempted to make this new release an "in memoriam" for your company
rep. I'm sure Kerran won't mind.

On a slightly different note, the moments between reliving the Wild Hunt and
staring at the puddles of flourescence on the linoleum have not been
entirely dull. STREETWOLF has remained steadfastly at bedside throughout
this whole ordeal. I cannot count the times I have emerged from some
imagined landscape to find him holding my thrashing limbs still and speaking
calmly to me. I'm not certain how he has managed to stay sane through the
ordeal. Had I not been providing the dubious entertainment I was, I should
seriously question the vitality of his personality. Of course, those who
know him are certainly aware that he leaves little room to doubt in this
category, and our conversations have demonstrated that the breadth of his
theoretical knowledge is quite suitable for any thaumeturgist's convention.
Lord, he makes some of my old professors look like neophytes.

Nonetheless, this balance between tedium and delirium is not the theme of
this post; rather, I had hoped to share a moment of oddness with the few
intrepid masters who frequent this occulted conference. Those with comments
may wish to reply; I am not certain myself what this turn of events entails,
but let me demonstrate my confusion through the course of events, rather
than try to explain.

I was, naturally, sitting at Sean's bedside, thinking something typically
shrill -- something about how he should really be shaved, or some such. I've
not a firm recollection of that bit. STREETWOLF was across the bed, propped
against the outer wall, pretending with all his subconscious might that he
was not soundly asleep. I do recall -- vaguely, mind you, as if I were
discovering the notion like one would discover a nut in pistachio pudding --
thinking that it might be nice to let some air into the room. I looked up,
out the window, hoping that the moon might lie without, shrouded in mist. I
started a bit at what I saw -- it was certainly no moon, but rather a
largish blackbird perched on the sill. I remember suddenly realizing, as I
saw this creature sitting there, that the tapping noise which had been
etching itself into the periphery of my thoughts for the better part of...an
hour? two? Whatever, that noise was the direct result of this creature
tapping at the sill, waiting to be let in. It seemed natural to me that I
should then comply with its request. After all, it was polite enough about
its entreaties. So I stood, thinking in the back of my head that I was in
the midst of another of those fugues which had been haunting my days, as it
had the surreal quality I have come to associate with Sean's memories; the
very inconsistency of being in my own, definitively feminine form eluded me
at that time. I simply proceeded to the window while my mind churned away,
spinning through delirium after delirium.

When the window had been pulled open at last, I felt a curious sense of
dreadful relief flush through my system, and I watched with a profound
sensation of -- of everything being somehow in the right place, I suppose --
as the crow flew in and lit upon the edge of the bed. It hopped along there,
looking Sean up and down, as if inspecting him for damage -- then settled
upon the headboard.

The spells of phantasm came and went, but as my thoughts have grown more
lucid and my hold on the present have finally begun to resolve, the bird
remains. STREETWOLF can vouch for me here. The staff even acknowledges the
bird's existence, and does not do anything about it. In fact, they won't
speak of it, or even look at it unless by accident. But in indirections and
whispers, the rumors are slipping through the clinic -- I can feel them more
than hear them -- as to what this portents.

Strange, no?]<<<<<
         --  Shekhinah <05:12:34 GMT / 13-Mr-56>

***** PRIVATE: Flute
>>>>>[Sorry, we dont.  We do have scholarships for local colleges
that you can apply for.]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <05:54:41 / 03-13-56>
           Head of Operations
           Industrial Sound and Magic

>>>>>[Dashira, if you are out there, or anybody out there can tell me out
to get it touch with him, please reply. I need to get in touch with you,
and I don't care on what premisis. Please hurry!]<<<<<
     --  Genocide <11:46:01/03-13-56>

>>>>>[Another weird Hendrix thing....

I knew this hoop-kicking physad in Portland who'd get himself wound
up chanting the lyrics to "Voodoo Child (slight return)".  Lemmeesee
what I can remember....

"I stand up next to a mountain,
And I chop it down with the edge of my hand,
Said I stood up next to a mountain,
And I chopped it down with the edge of my hand.

Then I took up all the pieces,
An' made an island,
Without even something, something, something"

Well, you get the idea.  This guy was a blur once he got started, one
of the fastest people I've ever seen - including most wireheads.
Damn shame that nobody's faster than high-velocity 10mm...

When you start thinking in metaphysical terms, you get some weird
meanings in his lyrics....

>>>>>[Freddy  --  Will you at least let me record your CD's to chip?]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <16:48:58 / 03-13-56>

>>>>>[Well, I supposse....  Have somebody in your technical
department get some extra memory plugged into your deck and meet me
at... no that won't work, I ain't got the time.  I'll drop 'em into a
file and fire it off to your box later this afternoon, maybe, if I
can get the time.

We've got an... ummm... situation down here.  A jurisdiction matter
to sort out.  We DON'T have it, so I gotta bluff our way through this.

Wish me luck.  Gotta fly.]<<<<<
        -- Freddy Frypp (11:20:23 / 03-13-56)
           President
           Frypp Security, Inc. (CFSM Uplink #5150)

>>>>>[ Well this morning was an interesting morning for trial watchers.
DragonEyes never made an appearance at court.  Apparently everything was all
set to go though.  Here's what happened.  (unfortunately, I don't have a video
of this one).

As DragonEyes left the confines of the vehicle that he was in a gun was fired.
One bullet nailed DE in the right shoulder.  Nearby agents managed to get him
behind cover before the next bullet struck.  The media covering the event
panicked which causes an interesting riot to break out.  The biggest surprise
was that Doc Wagon (tm) pulled a hot extraction and rushed DragonEyes off for
medical attention along with 2 Agents (one who took a bullet that was most
likely aimed at DragonEyes).  The two agents have been released but there has
been no word from the officals at Doc Wagon (tm) as to when DragonEyes was
going to be returned to FBI holding facility.

As soon as it was made apparent who had DragonEyes, a representitive from Ares
(not Scourge amazingly enough) made a rather lucretive offer for DragonEyes to
be turned over to them.  So far Doc Wagon (tm) has yet to respond to either
FBI's demands or Ares.

Speaking of Scourge, I have narrowed the search down to 4 possible leads as to
who took the sniping shot at them.  Well, that is all for now. ]<<<<<
        -- Ratspeak <10:00:00/3-13-56>

*****PRIVATE:  Maxim Crew
>>>>>[Irish, you're 'bomb' has been armed, aimed, and released.  Time to sit
back and watch the fireworks....]<<<<<
        --  Diana, Mistress of the Night <13:26:48/03-13-56>

>>>>>[Oh, by the way, I'm back from pulling the fade.  Sorry to hear about all
the stuff that went on here.  I'll tell you all what happened with me later.
Much later.]<<<<<
        --  Diana, Mistress of the Night <13:27:57/03-13-56>

>>>>>[there has to be a bug going around, how come there are
so many of us fading... something in the air? hehehehe
hey freddy, hows about relaying that file this away I can't play these
8-tracks, so it would be nice to have them on chip, oh and is this
the Trixie you spoke to me about?]<<<<<
        -- GoD <15:01:11/03-13-56>

***** PRIVATE: Freddy Frypp
>>>>>[How's about I come down your way, bring my deck and some recording
equipment, set up for a weekend of recording, then head out?

In return for use of a room in your house, your music, and hospitality, Ill
cook a dinner for you and Karen.  You tell me what you like to eat, and Ill
see if I can come up with something at least close.  I make excellent deserts
(pies, cakes, tortes) and pretty decent main dishes.  If you dont mind, Im
vegetarian so meatless anything would go over pretty well with me...]<<<<<
        -- Trixie <19:56:26 / 03-13-56>
           Head of Operations
           Industrial Sound and Magic

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