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8 yrs ago
Current Malfunctioning Space Toilet (favorite death post in RPG) : roleplayerguild.com/posts/4…
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10 yrs ago
Example of a "Character Flaw": roleplayerguild.com/posts/32..
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Caesar Gonzalez


Location: La Hacienda
Skills: Investigation, Security Tech



So, to summarize: Fried computer, interesting bits revealed about Queensguard, and for Juno... the knowledge that it was a revolving door of powerful women who don't mind getting their hands dirty was already known, but the fact that someone murdered most all of them and it just delayed the organization was interesting. And a little depressing. Assuming that Juno was responsible for Alicia's death, and Caesar was able to put a blade to every single one of them, it just wouldn't stop there. There was no final play to be had that would give a lasting sense of peace. That part was downright troubling.

The whole thing reminded Caesar of his days as a Federale. Criminal organizations specializing in the drug trade were common. Pervasive, actually. They had wormed their way into the Mexican Federal Police like the tendrils of a growing cancer. One did not know who to trust, even at the highest levels. Corruption very nearly destroyed the organization, and was still a problem. And even when you could make a difference, land the right people in prison, take down empires of drugs and blood money, there were always others willing to pick up the pieces and take their place. Round and round they went. It never ended. Perhaps that was why Caesar did what he did so many years ago: He killed them all.

It took motivation, and lots of it. But the cartels knew the absolute cold fear that really only settles into a man when he is faced with an unstoppable force coming for their blood. And when the smoke cleared, there was one man with a dinged, bloody machete and a metric ton of spent shell casings left standing, be it at a cost. And it still didn't last. His actions put it off for a while; long enough for he and many others to clean house with the Federales. Over a third of their number fired, arrested, or killed before it was over, Commandant Gonzalez one of the key players in making it happen. He had personally killed more cops than anyone he had ever heard of. It was time to retire.

And this problem with Juno? Exactly like it. One dies, another takes its place. Lasting peace would not be had from anything he could accomplish. The only thing he could do was find out who to kill and do it, as painfully and messily as possible, and let the chips fall where they may. Perhaps a further look at the evidence covered would yield results.



J. Keystone


Location: Queensguard Industries R&D, The Party -> En Route to Elizabeth's Office
Skills: Leadership, Security Procedures



The arrival of his London contacts was expected, but sadly forgotten about in the hubbub of the evening. Keystone did feel like a dumbass for missing the arrival, or even failing to send someone down to the airport to greet them. Well, at least they were here, even if he couldn't actually meet them right at that moment. Keystone was going to owe them a few drinks later on, if there was indeed a later on to get to. The majority of that little chunk of anxiety came from the actions (or inactions) of his security team.

After light consideration of the facts of the situation, he had received no feedback from any of his security checkpoints so far that evening, nothing from groups he had sent out, and only marginal communication from the front gate, refusing to admit people with appropriate credentials. Though, from the look of the people admitted on a good day, they had the distinct appearance of well-dressed hoodlums. But back to present business, Keystone had really, really hoped that he didn't have to explain basic security protocol to the staff that he had appointed to the area of the party involving securing a scene until law enforcement could arrive or preventing onlookers from getting too close to a body. But, if their lackadaisical attitude toward the situation was supposed to represent the norm, he might as well get on the horn to make sure.

As he continued to escort Ms. Queensguard and the Admiral back to the CEO's office, Keystone spoke into his comm in a faux calm voice, not quite hiding the rising hostility he was feeling toward his people just then. "Right then, my poppets. I'm gonna need the lot of you to remember y'basic bloody training. Party Room: Addition to the supplemental orders I give ya just previous, you need to ad'ere to simple protocol as set for scenes like this, an' secure the fongin' body, yeah? Three o' you blokes stand around it, an' keep buggers from goin' near. Standard distance. Use nonlethals if y'gotta."

Keystone gave a quick glance up the next stretch of corridor, careful to note if anything was out of place before he continued escorting his charge to the enigmatic Point B. Again, he addressed his comm. "Hub: You got visitors from 'cross the Pond comin' your way. Make sure they're fully equipped if'n they're not, comms to boot, and get them to take over the Party Room. Standard measures apply, lockdown. An' give them my apologies. Real bintfist of an eve, this is."


Reginald Keystone



Location: The Museum - Vera's Office
Skills: N/A




A series of long and slow breaths emanated from the Lord Major, as he tried very hard to reestablish the Stiff Upper Lip that his people were famous for. He was British, damnit, and a Lord and a standing Officer in the service of the Crown. He had lost people before. Lots of people. He envied them, sometimes, to the point of wishing that he could join them. But this... They were free. They were going to live a prosperous life of quiet reflection and study, maybe trade or industry of some kind. Aziza was going to build resources and contacts so as to make a move to reclaim her family, and long after Reginald's death, she was to be under the protection of the Noble Keystone line. Fate or God or whomever was not supposed to strike her down, not when Reginald had given her a life worth living. He was as angry as he was grieving, but he could show very little of both. They had a mission, and he had his role within it to fill.

Clearing his throat, Reginald recovered the telegraph paper from the floor and walked over to the doorway of Vera's office. He nodded to the words of concern from Mahendra, responding with a simple, "I shall survive, Mr. Zalil. Excuse me, please." Addressing the remainder of the persons in the office, those who had at least passing familiarity with Aziza and Harry, "It is with no small regret that I report the passing of Miss Tarek and Sergeant Walsh. The dirigible they were taking to Malta, and then hopefully to Brighton, crashed north of the city. There were no survivors."

He paused for a moment to let it sink in.

As a quiet subject change, he reported to Vera, "There will be a detail of soldiers here shortly to transport whatever you require to a safe room within the Barracks. Also, we are supplied for a long-term venture. Soldier's fare and supplies mostly, but luxuries will be secured tomorrow morning. Do let me know if I may be of further assistance in your present endeavor." As an afterthought, he glanced over at the papers on the Vera's desk. "Oh, we have several cartographer's papers and such, maps, etc. back at the Barracks. Rather difficult to navigate by air or sea without a means of measuring coordinates." His voice was quiet and distant as compared to its normal bluster, but he spoke with knowledge and confidence. If he could not help persay, then his resources certainly could.


Gilbert Summers, "The Hat"

Location: Ville au Camp (Main Building, Dining Room)
Skills: N/A


Gil couldn't help but smirk, if just a little bit at the disappearance of Alexandra. He did a quick mental check on the location, establishing a timeline of recent events. When everything congealed in his mind, his smirk turned into a calm smile. "The first piece of time for new Paradoxes are so full of interesting things, don't you think?" The words were directed to the Emendators in the room, but he quickly grew quiet. Saying that out loud in the presence of, as he had just mentioned, new Paradoxes. It might appear insulting or, at the least, condescending. He had been called far worse in his life, definitely done far worse, but to be overtly insulting? It just wasn't his style.

"Please accept my apologies. My interesting bump in events just happens to be a very shocking part of your recent existence. Point of view can lead to little acts of insensitivity. Alexandra is fine, by the way. She just joined the club of Paradoxes who expressed a little early. Honestly, I am astounded at your progress. You must be accepting your new lives rather fluidly."

The last of his soup lay before him, not quite enough to get into a spoon with ease and yet too much to simply leave there. He resisted the urge to slurp directly from the bowl, instead tipping it forward slightly to gather the last bit in his concave utensil, just for a second glancing about to see if anyone actually noticed him using what was considered the proper table manners of the time. Ok, so acting all Emily Post wasn't quite the magic trick he had intended. It was a start. For him.

He rolled his eyes a little at Nancy's philosophy on rules. A good part of him agreed, just not in the delivery. "True, one cannot be bound completely by the rules. But remember, The Rules save lives. There are very rare times when you have to roll with the unexpected, though, and when to bend the rules. Don't make a habit out of it. Again, The Rules save lives. Being able to improvise (and knowing when to) doesn't hurt either. Just... we will cover all of this in training. Don't worry about it now."

Now, when Gio began to speak, Gilbert's face lit up. "Yes! It's a little strange at first, but viewing sections of timelines can be absurdly entertaining. Even a little addictive. One of my favorite "shows" involves the continuing adventures of this fuzzy orange cat named..." he let his words die off, and immediately took a sip of clear, white wine. His train of thought was coming dangerously close to talking about something from a timeline, and location, of one of their new Paradoxes. And one of their existing ones, for that matter. Time to be quiet for a bit. "Well, it's really something, once you get used to it."



James Grady

Location: Ville au Camp (Main Building, Dining Room)
Skills: N/A


James had intended his offer of help to be for the meal, or cleanup, or something of that nature, completely not realizing that he was volunteering to assist with locals in a close and personal manner. Ok, no big deal. He was just thinking that he had to adapt to his new life, and this might be a damn fine way to start. He used to be a people person, once upon a time. Considering what The Hat had said earlier, James was curious as to whether his social skills slipped away in his death, or if that was so rooted in himself that it could not be separated from his soul. He hoped it was the latter. Being a black man in the rural South in the 1940s was going to suck out loud if he was one inappropriate guffaw away from being lynched.

But he did still have his memories, be they like peering through frosted glass sometimes. And his memory was packed full of tales of woe. The public liked those? Well, he had just come from a place that was one part Purgatory and one part Hell, mixed in with tiny spots of something worth fighting for. "Hells yeah, I gots me some stories. Most'em true, too. Ain't a soul gonna believe it here, I ain't thinkin'. But they some good ones, livin' where I was. I'll be happy to be of service, Ma'am."

He looked around the table, just for a second pretty sure that he had just missed something important, or of association to him. He did see an empty seat that had once been occupied by a Russian lady, which he shrugged off. Maybe she needed to use the one bathroom on the whole estate, and would be back soon. "Hey, one o' you say somethin' 'bout a cat? We used to have this cat, hang around us in Newnan... Little asshole, too. Kinda miss him. Came in with a big Russian, name o' Bazhooli. Hmm..." He paused a moment, lost in thought. "Oh hey, someone pass that bread." he abruptly requested, holding a hand out in the general direction of the yeasty rolls.


Ash Holloway

Location: Hordebuster -> Arnco Mills Safehouse (E10)
Skills: Leadership




There was still the matter of the Dead, though they were more sparse here than farther back up the road. The sound of a couple of them behind the house did have Ash's attention, however. They weren't getting any closer, it didn't seem, so getting his people behind closed doors and taking stock of their inventory seemed like the thing that took priority.

Pausing for just a second, Ash stepped back up and into The Hordebuster. Though she was not with them, Thana had left her bag in the truck. He intended to get it back to her, but if there was something in it that could help them all out in the meantime, he was going to leave no stone unturned. Ash felt fairly certain that a military woman like Thana would feel the same way if she had his rucksack, and he wouldn't blame her a bit. This was survival, period. But the thought of her did linger with him. Was she alright? Was she captured or killed? Should he pack up everything he possibly could and stage a secondary assault on those assholes in Eden, just in case?

See to your people, Captain. This is your assignment. The situation can be reassessed later. Damned voice. Damned logical, pragmatic Soldier's voice. He exhaled sharply. Yes, this was his mission. Tend to his people, sweep for survivors. Broach other topics later. This is what a leader does. Okay.

Ash's shoulders were getting awfully full as he slipped Thana's pack over his shoulder, alongside his own. His bow was in one hand, and with his other, he began leading Niesha out of the back of the truck. "Hit those locks, just in case." he said softly. A lock on a truck door wouldn't keep someone out forever, especially in this day and age. But with grates over the glass, it would keep them out for a while longer than not, perhaps giving time to address the issue with knives and firearms. The last cab door locked, Ash closed up and trudged toward the safehouse.

"When we get in, I need two groups. Group A makes sure this place is clear, one room at a time. Closets, hamper, whole nine. Every entrance and window accounted for. Tiffany, Riley, that's you." He looked to Jack, a man that might have just lost everything, with some tiny piece of understanding. "Jack, you and Niesha locate supplies and give us an inventory. Start with light sources, we're going to need them. I'm going to work on the finding and setting up the radio - check in with the other safehouses." Upon reaching the porch, Ash set down his baggage and drew his weapons, pistol and knuckle duster knife. You can't be too sure, even entering a safehouse for the first time. "And let's go..." Ash opened the door and stepped inside, adrenaline of "what could be" spiking through his blood despite his notable fatigue.



Thalia Carmichael

Location: Eden, Entry -> Grand Gallery outside of Reception on the left wall, behind a pillar
Skills: Stealth, Survival, Pistol



Gunfire always sounded different to Thalia when it was indoors. It seemed more personal, somehow. It was very personal in this instance, but mostly because Team Leader just used some asshole's neck as a sound suppressor. The real trick was that it didn't suppress very much sound. Worth a shot, though. For herself, Thalia preferred to use sharp things whenever possible. It was strange, giving it a nanosecond of thought, she wasn't the slasher type back Before (because Before was special and therefore had to be pronounced as if it were a proper noun). She was mostly a city girl. The uprising of Dead over Living changed things a bit, and she was damned grateful for every one of those training sessions with her family involving all things sharp and pointy. The Apocalypse let her use what she learned without moral dilemma; on the Dead at first, and then the Living as it was needed. What was scary was the ease at which the transition was made. Perhaps there was a bit of evil in her. Perhaps more than a bit. Or maybe this was the natural condition of humanity at large when pressed into a need to survive. Thalia wasn't military, that was obvious. She would stack her training up against theirs as it mattered in keeping alive, though.

The call of "Clear" from the side room was good enough for Thalia. If they were taking this place apart room by room, great. She just hoped they could find the armory, if this place had an armory, and soon. Thalia might not have enough bullets to go around. The sound of singing could be heard, though blocked by bits of interior wall. To begin with, Thalia wondered why in the hell someone would be casting their voice that loud in a mortal setting such as this, giving away their position and... ...and then she heard an element of a Kiwi accent. Or course it was Lola. She almost smiled. Crossing the main hallway, Thalia moved to take position in the doorway of the next room up. Thana was kind enough to clear the first room; it would be impolite not to return the favor.

When she got as far as the next pillar up on the left side, she realized her error in stepping out of the shadows. It was where she did her best work. Those accompanying her in this little endeavor were trained for this sort of thing, assaulting strongholds and laying covering fire and the like, but it was still sort of new to Thalia. Some experience is better then no experience, but the rookie mistake she made was assuming that the hall was clear. From behind the pillar opposite of the room she was considering clearing came an Edenite proper. He looked scared, which was both good and bad for Thalia. Unfortunately, she was not in a good position to use her blade properly, so before the man could raise his rifle, Thalia let a quick bullet fly from her new Beretta. It went wide, poorly aimed and in haste, prompting her to give consideration to getting a little more practice in then next time they had an overabundance of ammunition. But her problem was more immediate.

The man had ducked back behind the pillar, as she was tempted to do, herself. That was a defensive measure, however. They were on the offensive. No establishing a foothold or any of that stupid shit that she saw in every old war movie, this was simple "kill and move forward". They had the numbers and the home field advantage. Then again, they also had a balls-moron sentry who couldn't hide behind cover without exposing his knee. A grin cracked the ash over her face as she put a bullet into the guy, partially blowing his kneecap off. He fell forward with a sustained scream of shock and pain, quivering slightly in the dim light. The second bullet pounded hard into his forehead, not quite center but good enough to get the job done.

Her shoulder pressed against the wall, she risked a peek from behind her own pillar. The room she had intended to clear wasn't cleared, and she couldn't tell if others were holding position father up the hall or advancing. Thalia hated wasting ammo. And she was kicking herself for not getting handier with a rifle. "Need some covah out here!" she called, only as loudly as she dared. She didn't quite want to give away that it was only three of them on this side of the building.


Vladimir Alexandrov
"The Great Bazhooli"


Location: Russian Imperial Circus (Regent's Park), Main Tent -> Just Outside of the Main Tent
Skills: Fal'shbort (Passive), Tretiy Glaz (Passive), English



While Vladimir had no idea what Ludwig was saying, he was at least glad that the possibly rabid man was going along with his plan to exit the tent as quickly and safely as possible. His one free hand, now unburdened by anything sharp, grasped the forearm of the young Viscount Wenwynith. "Is good, little James. Ve go to safer place, have the foodstuffs now. Da? Da." Vladimir nodded his head vigorously, helping the lad from underneath the table. He continued with a descriptive of the alleged foodstuffs, directing his words to both of the boys, Crypt and orphan alike. "Pies stuffed vith meat (not sure vhat meat, but is meat, promise! Also колбаса... eh, sausages! And fried beet on stick. You vill like fried beet on stick. Is good for you - help make strong bones! Come, ve go now. Almost out."

For all of his rambling about forcemeat and fried root vegetables, Vlad was doing a presentable job painting a mental picture. Not one of a bountiful spread of Russian foods, both rural and street, but that of a marginally entertaining uncle type who kept the boys fixated on the mildly out-of-place rambling, the overall idea being to give them something else to process until after they had exited the presently damaged Main Tent. They were not of the Circus, and could not assist in their endeavors without getting in the way. The same went for the German fellow, Ludwig. Not to mention that a representative from a family who had threatened harm upon the child nobleman was within spitting distance. Vlad needed to secure them before anything else.

After a bit of pushing and other physical negotiation with the cold, heavy cloth, Vlad had led James back to the point where he had initially emerged from the canvas. The popped seam stood as a signpost to the path which he had taken earlier, which gave him a mental nudge of sorts. Had he forgotten something, though he could not remember quite what it was. It was a real head-scratcher.

"Aha!" he said aloud. He realized that he could not go through his generally exaggerated physical antics when puzzling something out, generally involving cocking his head to the side and whisking off his top hat, putting hand to his forehead, playacting an emotion of confusion that might translate well to an audience. It was the performer in him. Couldn't be helped. But he could not do his practiced motions of emotional display for two pressing reasons: His hands were full, and he was missing his hat! This would not do. He must have lost it when the canvas came down, and he was standing right under that popped seam when it happened.

Vladimir quickly handed off the platter of goodies to James and crouched to the floor, feeling about the ground beneath with both hands until his face shifted into a visage of satisfaction. He rose, popped his very impressive top at back upon his head, and gave a pleased grunt. He accepted the platter back from his extremely distant relative and led him the rest of the way out of the tent, finally. The nighttime air of a British summer pushed past them, promising rain sooner or later. Hopefully it would be later. Vlad wanted to get some good celebration time in before long. He noted that somehow, Ludwig and Adam had beaten them outside. He was curious as to how, but then it struck him: It must have been when he was getting his hat back. Regardless, he looked over the three of them; Adam, James, and Ludwig. They seemed none the worse for wear.

"Personal vardo is this vay, at Tent of Great Bazhooli! (ahem) My tent. Is vagon, place to sleep vhile on road. Hard vood. Doors lock. Don't drink all of vodka." He gave a comical sneer at Adam, as if to jokingly accuse the child of being the type to drink up one's liquor. Vlad then gave a hearty laugh and waved them on to elsewhere in the camp. He had to hurry and get them set up; it would take many people to assist with the damaged tent quickly. And then there was the subject of Thalken.



Sister Mary Ignatia Hale


"In God's name let us go on bravely." -Joan of Arc

Location: The Regent's Park (Outer Circle Road)
Skills: Horseback Riding




Jericho, of course. The best path out of London was, of course, the only path. There might have very well been other paths, more secretive ones, be they over or under the Wall, though Mary prayed that there were not. That being barred, she had hoped that the ways were known only to the righteous. These were quite possibly things of folly, maybe naivety, but it was an innocent thought about a purely hypothetical idea; one that had no bearing upon their present situation. They had to go through Jericho to exit London. Mary's concern was with what route they should take after they left.

Mary noticed Virginia's whispering, following the perspective deity centered supplications of both herself and Elizaveta. She said nothing, but glanced back and gave her a warm smile. Mary never considered that Virginia was Catholic, having never seen her near St. Etheldreda's for anything related to prayer or tithing, and from the lack of discussion on the topic from other sources, Mary had simply assumed that she was not a churchgoer, period. While the young Apostolic did not understand a word that Virginia said, she was merely pleased that there was a belief in the hereafter within the Lady Crypt's philosophy. She would have to bring it up later if she remembered, perhaps when they found their first resting spot in their journey.

But to their journey: The clearest option for overland travel was the Great North Road. It ran from London to Edinburgh, spanning from lower England to the heart of Scotland. It was fast, well-traveled, and maintained as well as any road in Great Britain. But it did not run through Gretna Green. It would take them north quickly but there would have to be a switchover to take them west. There were other paths for that, speedy and direct, though a single downed bridge or hard storm could delay them irreparably. This was a discussion for when they left London. Now, it was the sure canter of a strong, reliable stallion headed south through the mostly empty streets of the Capitol of the British Empire. They had to get a respectable head start on the Circus.


Foy Coiffeur

Location: Newhope Docks (Prometheus, Galley/Lounge)
Skills: N/A


True to his declaration earlier, Foy made his way into the ship following Jahosafat and Mei. That little lady was an entertaining quarry earlier, and all the more interesting because of the lack of knowledge he had about her. Generally, he liked to keep his Tracker/Trackee relationship very straightforward. This unexpected recruitment came as a surprise, but considering it, this had been a week for surprises. One of the biggest surprises was that he was still in these people's company, himself. Foy's contract with the Alliance had been closed, The I.A.V. Retribution lost, end of story. Yet here he was, by necessity. He found it quite curious. Nevertheless, he maintained a respectful distance behind Dr. Moreau and the injured lady, not wishing to do something as impolite as rush them. Such an act would be unseemly and boorish.

As they entered the ship proper through the cargo doors, Foy took Dorothy's words as her playing at tour guide until he remembered that there were newcomers, most of which had likely never been inside of a Dragonfly class vessel. Then he also remembered that they required room assignments, including the lady on his arm, Jacqueline. "Miss Croix, if you would be as decent as to allow my leave, I have matters that require my attention, as do you at the moment. I shall find myself in the Galley before long, should you wish to continue dialogue; otherwise I bid you a pleasant evening." He tipped his very fine hat toward Jacqueline, complete with a little bow, and stepped lively toward the back of the cargo area. He had to make it to the upper deck himself, but the most direct route took him aft first. Foy took the stairs nearest the skiff and within a moment, found himself within his private quarters.

It was spacious for a transport vessel, and all of his stuff was here. Not quite everything was unpacked, granted, Foy had used the majority of his time to set up the "Foyer". This was home, for a while yet. The very standard bed would also have to do until he could import something more to his standards. But in the meantime, it was time for supper. When at all possible, a Coiffeur dressed for the occasion. Nimble fingers removed the tie pin from his cravat and untied the elaborate neckpiece, before unfastening the buttons to his dress shirt in rapid succession. In the process of disrobing, Foy hung up his charcoal suit coat and matching slacks, giving the both of them a light brushing before moving on. There was no need for his bowler hat indoors at that hour, so manners dictated that he put it away. Foy inspected his second-favorite hat, gave it a smart tap against the palm of his hand, and tucked it away with the rest of his collection. He swiftly dressed himself in a pair of pinstripe slacks with matching vest and a crisp, white linen shirt, and a black on black brocaded silk tie. His end-of-day, "dressed down" appearance achieved, Foy oiled the tip of his moustache, gathered his food back up, and made his way the short few steps to the Lounge area. He truly did have a centrally located place of repose, just across from his new parlor.

It appeared that he was the first one to enter the room for the evening, a thing which he took for a boon; it allowed him free reign and quiet to set up his meal, wooden chopsticks and all, and sit carefully down as a gentleman might without disturbance. He had skipped a meal or two that day, and believe it or not he was really looking forward to whatever Harper had ordered. Foy had to give the Pilot his due; his taste was adequate for a military fellow. Moreover, he knew the cuisine of the more workaday locales better than himself. He might not trust the man fully, but Foy did trust his judgement in this arena, which is why he had insisted upon just getting what Harper had ordered for himself.

Smug and optimistic about the last hour of the day before he turned in, Foy began to eat his meal with the utmost of table manners and in the rarity of Farradayan silence.



William Harper

Location: Newhope Docks (On board Prometheus, Quarters and Lounge)
Skills: N/A


Harper seemed to mirror the path that Anisa took to get to her quarters, utilizing the stairs on the other side of the boat to reach the upper deck. His room was across from hers and right next to Dorothy's, mere feet from the Bridge. It was the ideal setup for the pilot who wanted to be on top of things constantly, from a professional standpoint. Squeezed in between the two ship's Officers and his station? Yeah, he'd better want to work. Still, it was better then his last permanent placement. Much better. Harper was no stranger to physical work, that was for certain. On an irregular schedule, as well. At least here he could fly. Really fly, not deal with those industrial shuttles that were good for one or two straight shots from asteroid to asteroid for multiple hours of manually turning large rocks into small rocks and analyzing the contents before clunkily turning back around and returning to hell, only to fend off the more aggressive of his neighbors while attempting to consume something designed purely to maintain a life of drudgery, affectionately referred to by the local population as "Loaf". Baozi and basil infused nuts on board Prometheus were heaven in comparison.

He could hear and feel the mechanics of the ship initiate as the last of their group entered the ship. When the cargo doors finally closed fully, Harper breathed an open sigh of relief. Somehow being locked inside of this spaceworthy metal can held a feeling of safety and freedom. The irony of feeling free while behind a lock was not lost on him. At any rate, he was at the door to his quarters in very short order, slipped inside, and took stock of his situation.

Harper was the pilot of a boat that was destined for illegal, clandestine activities. He had even sat in on the negotiations for the first such job of this nature, and had to come to grips with the fact that, while he was never a criminal in the classical sense before, he most certainly was now. Perhaps the lessons he learned in the more recent years of his life, the desperation, loss, pain, were exactly the kind of training he required to live this sort of life now. The thing which mad it necessary also gave him the psychological tools to do what must be done to survive. Unfortunately, it had also left its mark in other ways. Less wholesome ones. He shook away those thoughts for now. They would come unbidden soon enough anyway, like a cold crack of infection throbbing in an otherwise solid psyche.

Setting the food down for a moment, Harper took the time to lay down in his bunk. It was fairly standard, even comfortable for a spacefaring vessel. Or it would have been. The soft, artificial fabric and foam mattress padding just didn't seem to set right with him. It was too... soft. Pliable. He hadn't had the option of sleeping upon a mattress in years, and now that he attempted to rest upon one, it just seemed off. He had tried aboard the Retribution with similar results, too. This would be a hard habit to break, but he would not do it tonight. Sighing, Harper removed the mattress from his bunk, exposing the hard metal and plastic shelf beneath and laid a sheet upon it. Yeah, that would have to do. He stood the mattress up in the corner of the room and prepared to leave.

First things first: Harper grabbed up his massive wrench and slid it down to its shortest setting. The tool loop and pocket on the leg of his coveralls fit it absolutely perfectly, as he found out with some glee. It made sense, a tool in a pocket designed to holster tools without jostling. With a sense of positivity, Harper drew his wrench, twirled it between his fingers, and actuated the device to its full length and span. It made a formidable blunt weapon; the modern Engineer's replacement for a mace or morningstar of ancient Earth-That-Was. Harper was very fond of his wrench. His new firearm and knife he kept upon him. There were new people on board the boat and he didn't even fully trust the existing crew yet, let alone the guests. A rarely seen mischievous grin spread across his face that paired nicely with the faraway gleam in his intelligent, green eyes. He readjusted the wrench to its most compact setting and slid it safely away in his coveralls.

Harper quickly located the pull-out sink, splashed some water in his face and washed his hands, then snatched up the bags of food from Lady Luck and strode out of his quarters. Anisa had not yet emerged from hers, and he seemed to remember her saying something about "Food in the Galley", a decent enough idea. Knocking on her door and inviting himself into her quarters for a meal sounded downright suicidal in comparison; jettisoning him from an airlock wouldn't be quite as fatal, being as they were on a habitable planet at the moment, but chemically propelled lead from point blank range would suffice nicely. Instead, he deftly made his way aft down the length of the ship to the Galley and began setting up what amounted to supper for himself and the Captain, including the tray of appetizers and dipping sauces that no one seemed to have touched back at the establishment. There was still a bit of warmth to everything, he noted positively.

It had barely registered to him that the galley was occupied. This was probably because it was occupied by Foy, who sat with uncharacteristic quiet, slowly eating his own meal. The esteemed Mr. Coiffeur gave a little throat clear to officially announce his presence, and gave him a polite, "Lieutenant Harper." before returning to his meal. To give him credit, he did not speak his rank within the Fleet around any outside ears. It did annoy Harper, however.

"Mr. Coiffeur." he responded. "I don't remember, what was your rank within the Alliance? Before you were a Contractor, I mean."

Point taken. "Never you mind, my good sir. William, then? Liam? It is how you prefer people address you, I seem to recall from the other vessel." Foy flashed a quick smile, though it was difficult to tell if he was trying to be warm or sarcastic.

If only the dandy man knew. But Harper didn't want a light shone into that aspect of himself for a long time yet. "Harper works just fine." He glanced around to see if anyone else was approaching just yet, and continued, "You understand that we're going to have to work together, right? That will be difficult if we keep trying to antagonize each other."

"Indubitably." responded Foy. "You intrigue me, Lieutenant Harper. That is all. A curiosity that I cannot suss out on the immediate, and if I do sound the horn of my own accomplishment, I consider myself an astute assessor of a man's disposition. But in the instance of yourself, Harper, I can objectively sense that I cannot trust initial impressions or guttural instinct about the nature or your character and background, sir. Core world, certainly. Military, obviously. Yet I remain curious. Perhaps in time, Master Harper. But worry not! We are bound by contract to the same cause. Upon the golden shores of Farraday, that statement possesses meaning." He gave a salute to the pilot with his chopsticks, as a fencer might, and returned to his meal.

"Yes. Enjoy your dumplings. Briefing soon." Harper seemed to grow more terse, even as Foy became more garrulous. This was not over yet.


Caesar Gonzalez


Location: La Hacienda
Skills: Investigation, Security Tech



Caesar expected his niece to do something irrational. And by "irrational", he meant loud, messy, and damaging to properties both private and public. Perhaps the computer would find its way outside by means of a balcony window. Maybe said window would be closed at the time, offering someone an opportunity to be showered with bits of broken glass. The young lady had certainly taken on the appearance of someone who was about to lose their calm in a manner that promised anything from medical attention or a cleanup on aisle four. But she did not. Thalia carefully disconnected her machine, closed the monitor down onto the keyboard, and turned it to one side. The flash drive was trash. The computer was trash. Maybe she could get a new one on the quick; these potentially violent persons with whom she surrounded herself were a resourceful bunch. Besides, they were family. It wouldn't be the same, though. Hers was a fairly personalized machine, and they would have to get one off-the-rack. ...unless...

"I had half a mind, sobrina, to get you to take a look at Alicia's computer. It's the best money can buy. When we're done here, I'll make sure that it gets to you. Come on now, there's nothing else we can do here. Let's get back to the viewing."

The angry little Angel's voice registered as businesslike, even hard, but not quite angry. She turned on the television in her room and found a music channel, then cranked the volume to discourage anyone listening from outside of the room or electronically. "You can hand it to me in person, Caesar. I'm coming with you." The look of confusion on the older man's face must have been evident. He had briefly considered asking her to lend her expertise, seeing as she was the only other one in his close family with computer skills like Alicia, but he had said nothing out loud about it. She continued, providing an explanation in the same tone of voice of a lady tending to a contractual issue. "I don't think you understand what just happened, Tio. The Hacienda's secure communications platform was breached, and whoever did it was able to dump countermeasure onto me that had enough feedback to cause an immediate physical meltdown of my machine. They can probably tell which part of the complex we're in right now based on signal strength. We are being watched. I'm part of this now, if I want to be or not. And I want full salary. Perks. Just like Boston, but with immediate hazard pay, retroactively to account for today. And a fucking bike - you know what I like."

Caesar fell silent for a moment. This was not part of the deal. La Hacienda was a goddamned fortress. They were safe here. This was the place where they went to fall back and regroup, then put the hurt on whatever needed it. Now his family was at risk. This would not do at all. Finally, he spoke. "Deal. But you're staying out if it as much as possible. You do your work at the office, you stay somewhere secure, you go out with escort. Understood?"

She nodded resolutely, locking hazel eyes with hazel eyes, an interesting family trait. She may have had mixed blood and her last name was Carmichael, but when push came to stab she was all Gonzalez. "Understood, Boss." Thalia made sure to emphasize that last word, indicating a more professional relationship. Of course, things on scene tended to change the nature of their agreement out of necessity. It always did.

"Good. One more thing: You're telling your father."




J. Keystone


Location: Queensguard Industries R&D, near the Security Checkpoint nearest the party -> The Party
Skills: Leadership, Security Procedures



"Right away then, Ma'am." intoned Keystone, sticking close to Elizabeth. His hands looked poised to go for a firearm as readily as they were to pummel someone to death with ham-sized fists. Vinters followed closely behind and to the left, taking on a classic escort position to allow for unobstructed lines of sight. When the Admiral joined them, she moved slightly to account for the increased presence and allowed Keystone to have continued access to the man contract holder.

It was with some surprise that his phone started to silently go off in his pocket again. He gave a quick check to make sure it wasn't just Caesar with another piece of information, and was thusly surprised to be getting video. Two fairly brawny individuals sporting cockney accents were calling from the gate to request entry from the Man In Charge himself. "Sorry, you lot. Lit'le incident 'ere at the shop, kept my attention rapt and 'bout it. Point me at the bloke at the gate... Oi! They're in order, perfect order. Give'em their cards back, point'em to the Hub, right? No one else in!"


Reginald Keystone



Location: The Museum - Vera's Office
Skills: Leadership




The ever helpful and always gentlemanly Lord Major Reginald I. Keystone was more than happy to oblige his dear adoptive niece with the transport and repositioning of the crates. It was good for him to get a bit more physical exercise at his age anyway, apart from his regular constitutionals and frequent elbow bends courtesy of many a talented barkeep in various establishments scattered throughout his preferred sections of Cairo. Of course, this time around the bit of exercise that he would be getting was the vigorous exercise of his authority, seeing as the crates took more than one man to comfortably maneuver earlier (except of course for the push necessary to snuff the life of the Reporter). Of course, a more or less sturdy wheeled platform or furniture moving device, such as a sack cart or one of the more native mutumbo lifters would be of better use, especially for an old soldier past his prime. "Certainly, Lady Munn. I shall look into it forthwith; perhaps I can have an enlisted fellow or two from Supply tend to the items in question."

As the conversation continued, Reginald was overjoyed to hear that they might be underway as soon as tomorrow. "That is excellent news, of course. I can report from the standpoint of the Qasr el Nil Barracks that there are basic supplies in excess that we might utilize for the journey; supplies sufficient to see us there and back with a healthy amount twixt the journey for exploration time." The Lord Major's eyes moved to a starry, faraway distance as he wistfully continued, "Perhaps, if we find cause to bring the military's interest around, we might be able to establish a supply line. One might stay indefinitely, that being the case. Hmm..." He shook himself away from his daydreams of grub trucks and laundry services traveling to and from Vera's chosen site in regular intervals, perhaps with the occasional bottle of distilled celebratory libation every so often as the end of a particularly productive day had been reached. Ah, life at the head of a well-oiled British Military excursion, following the direction of a particularly talented specialist in her field. But alas, that would have to wait until something of importance to the Crown was established and the appropriate local authorities had been notified for approval. So much red tape for what was otherwise an intellectual pursuit.

"But to business! My dear, if we might be able to leave by tomorrow, then we should decide the manner of transportation this evening. We have access to several methods, as you well know, though I am not absolutely certain about air travel. Does this location have a spot nearby that might serve as a landing strip? Otherwise, we should have to utilize something from the motor pool, or even that being barred, good old fashioned horseflesh. Er, camelflesh, as the case may be." No, for his personal mount, Reginald would insist upon a horse. He had fluently learned the local language, insisted upon the alteration of the assigned uniform to include a burnoose, and adopted several of the local customs in the interests of diplomacy and good faith with the locals. But he drew the line at camels. A proper British Officer rode into battle upon a fine horse. Camels were for hauling gear.

As Reginald neared the office, he could hear the beginnings of a ruckus (or was it the end?) coming from the front entryway. he stopped, raised an eyebrow, and gave the scene a confused look. That is, until he heard a voice. A specific voice, one that haunted his dreams even though it belonged to a highly competent soldier. The man issuing said voice took off from down the hall and did not cease until he was within clear and full sight of Reginald, calling for him with an exasperated utterance of:

"Lord MAJOR!"

The good Corporal stopped just out of arm's reach of his superior and threw a perfectly angled salute, holding it there until Reginald sharply returned the gesture of military respect. He was obviously there for a reason. "Report."

"Lord Major, the Corporal is pleased to report that requested supplies have been separated from the Barracks inventory and accounted for in the logs, Sir! Furthermore, the Lord Major's request for sundries and luxuries has been duly processed and will be made available after the morning meal tomorrow, Sir! The Corporal is however ashamed to report that certain items could not be secured this evening free and clear, and requests permission to assign himself to Equestrian-Scooping duties until such time as they are in your possession, Sir!"

For all of his screaming and bluster, the man looked like he was holding something back. "That will not be necessary, Corporal. Is there anything else?" There had better have been something else. This was something that could have been written in a memo and left on his desk for when he returned. "Come along then. Out with it, boy."

"Sir, that is to say, sir... ah,"

He met Reginald's eyes for a half second before turning his back to the ground. But he was a soldier, and his commander just gave him an order.

"Yes Sir, Lord MAJOR!" Just get it over with. "The Lord Major received an urgent message upon the wire, Sir!" He handed over a slip of yellow-brown paper, carefully typed with black, blocky letters. Reginald accepted it and began to read.

Reginald's eyes widened, before he forced his face to return to a neutral pose. His very stiff upper lip and aristocratic bearing took a hit, visibly, and he took an extra step to lean against a nearby pillar. Tears, silent but unmistakable ran from his eyes, spilling onto the crisp lines of his uniform. "Thank you, Corporal." responded the Lord Major, in a voice that was eerily calm. The normally loud and brash subordinate took a fantastically rare moment to speak to Reginald quietly, without the formalities of rank between them; a thing that might be pressed disciplinary action if Reginald was so inclined.

"I'm... I'm so sorry, sir." The man was obviously feeling a pain that Reginald could not demonstrate for himself. Not right then, anyway.

"Thank you again, Corporal." The voice was still striking in its lack of strong emotion, a thing that was belied by the moisture upon his face. "Corporal? Do organize two additional men to secure a set of crates here for safekeeping at the Barracks, if you would. High priority."

"Right away, Lord Major."

It was all he could do for Reginald; follow his orders. And so he intended to do so without fail. The Lord Major, meanwhile, leaned heavily upon the pillar and let the paper slip from his fingers. It glided unerringly to the floor, its writing still visible by any who walked by.

QASR EL NIL BARRACKS C/O LORD MAJOR REGINALD KEYSTONE 4-10-1924

PRIVATE DIRIGIBLE CHARTERED BY COMMANDING OFFICER QASR EL NIL BARRACKS TRANSPORTING TWO PLUS PERSONAL EFFECTS EXPERIENCED CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE CRASHED SEVERAL MILES NORTH OF CAIRO NO SURVIVORS

CAIRO AIRPORT


"Aziza. Sergeant Walsh. I'm so sorry..."





Keystone

Location: Deymin's Tower (3F)



The Hooded Figure looked to be striding closer to the fray. Good. Keystone didn't like wizards at a distance, he'd rather be up close and personal with them, ready with a polite nudge or significantly less polite bludgeoning, as fit the situation. The only problem was that they often held items of enchantment that made his life difficult. The itinerant brawler had a little magic on himself, as well. Minor items, granted; nothing extremely noteworthy to persons not in his field of study, and even then they were fairly personalized. But the Necromancer wasn't his immediate concern right at the moment. No, staying between the baddies and Sana, until she was better able to move about on her own, was foremost on his mind.

True to form for the baddies, one of them advanced upon him. It was an ordinarily pitiable creature, really. A deep-dwelling Troglodyte that had slipped away from the land of the living and whose corpse was given hideous animation to do its master's bidding. While the others around him had their own difficulties, the esteemed J. Illium Keystone had to exterminate a Trogzombie, while keeping Sana safe. Slice of pie. Or whatever the confectionary term was that indicated an easy task to perform in quick order.

Keystone glanced back to Sana, noting that Satilla was beginning to administer her arts upon her. It gave him enough reassurance that she would be okay, at least for the meantime. Just buy time, kill the undead prick in front of him. Unfortunately, that was easier said then done. Keystone's foot caught a bit of blood upon the floor, causing a frontward slip. The initial punishing blow went wide as the huge man attempted to maintain his balance. A split second later, he offered up a quick snapping backfist, hoping to keep the beast off of him and/or knock it back a ways. Again, his effort came for naught. Another pride-damaging miss, and out in front of people, too. Ah well, at least he was buying the Healer time to, well, heal. All the same, a change in tactic might be necessary.


Gilbert Summers, "The Hat"

Location: Ville au Camp (Main Building, Dining Room)
Skills: History, Soft Martial Arts


Gilbert motioned with his spoon toward Giosue, signifying agreement with the man's statement even as he swallowed a chunk of something in his soup. The hiccup he surpressed mid-swallow might be considered comical were he to allow more than mild discomfort to show on his features, but he didn't want to take the attention away from his fellow Emendator's point. That, and being as the Heimlich Maneuver wouldn't be invented for some thirty or so years from their current temporal coordinates, and thanks to the wonder of Paradoxical rebirth, if any of these new guys ever had medical training, they didn't now. Yet might be inclined to make things worse by trying. The Hat wasn't completely sure if he could actually die from accidentally choking on a random bit of soup ingredient, but it was fairly uncomfortable. Not so much as an axe to the groin (damned Dark Ages and their extreme wake-up calls), but not the most fun to take part in, given his preferences.

His face was beginning to torn slightly red. The Hat tried to smile for a moment, as a method of putting others at ease lest they attempt to assist, politely waving anyone away that might potentially try. He carefully set his spoon down upon the side of his bowl, blinking away moisture from his eyes, and balled up a mighty fist. His smile turned into a determined look despite the lack of oxygen, followed by the sharp descent of his fist toward his abdomen. It connected with a tough smacking sound, as a hammer colliding with a thick slab of nickel steak, prompting the immediate expulsion of something from his esophagus; a vaguely spherical grey-brown mass that hurtled over the table.

With the speed and surety of a striking snake, Gilbert's other hand snapped forward, plucking the offending food nugget from the air before it got much farther than his own place setting. His breathing started to regulate itself one huff at a time, during which he brought the thing which almost laid him low close for inspection. It was a small but whole mushroom. He nodded to Evelina, asking a quick, "Is this from the grounds?" before thinking better about initiating the conversation, waving her off from answering (unless she insisted of course, it's not like he could stop her). He popped it back into his mouth, took two or three solid chews on the near-fatal fungus, and jumped back to the conversation at hand. "Yes! Yes, Gio is correct. Perhaps more important than firing a gun or swinging a sword. Those details will mean the difference between success or failure, when failure has devastating consequences."

He glanced around the table to see if his impromptu game of catch with his supper was foremost on anyone's mind, continuing with, "I recall one such incident that involved putting a coin in a parking meter at a specific place and time meant the difference between life and death for a great many people. It's usually something small like that, if out of place, that pulls the linchpin out of an otherwise stable timeline. But the tricky part was staying among the locals, undetected, until it could be located."

Gilbert gave a quick, nonchalant nod and returned to his soup.



James Grady

Location: Ville au Camp (Main Building, Dining Room)
Skills: N/A


Not for the first time, James found himself wondering if he was better off in a hole somewhere in central Georgia, dead from extreme cranial trauma, than with this gaggle of misfits and assholes. He definitely counted himself among the number of assholes, this was for sure, but the effect was brought again to light by the display of martial prowess executed against his most recent enemy: A cooked mushroom in heavy broth. He continued to look at Gilbert as if he had just seen a spider crawl out of his nose, fart "God Save The King", and return to its nasal sanctuary. It wasn't until The Hat returned to his soup that he allowed himself to begin his meal.

He had to remind himself that this was his life now, such as it was. The concept of Life was turned a little on its head, granted, but he wasn't about to let that stop him. He existed, when he had no reason to exist. Despite being a decent guy, he had done very bad things and was exiled for it. His death occurred shortly thereafter, and though it was random as hell, he felt that he deserved it. If dealing with these strange people in their strange place while transforming into a pig was his Purgatory, then he was willing to go along with it. At least he got his Troublemaker back. Changed somewhat, but it wasn't like he was exactly the same person anymore, either. No no, Mr. James Mandingo Grady, Sir, was just going to hang back, enjoy his meal and in fact every moment that came to him as best he was able, and wait to see if he can be of any assistance to the Dice lady, who he assumed was in charge of these eclectic immortals, as he had mentioned before Gio offered his advice and Gil spat up a mushroom.

With one exception. "Hey dawg, real talk - Did that just come out yo'nose? You can tell me."
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