The City At The Center of Mars (Red Planet Rising)

TheMaskedReader · Oct 8, 2022

Spaceport Strike!

Part Twelve: Pulling On Loose Threads

You can't let Dembowski out of your sight - Not while she might warn Cysat. "Goalie Dembowski." You stand, projecting a tone of authority that brooks no disagreement. "You will accompany me and my team to the logistics center of the Garrison. We will be conducting an immediate review of the paperwork there." She blinks, and then nods, standing. "Alright, Conductor, uh, ma'am. Yes." She turns around and starts to walk out, followed by you and Janice. After a short official explanation to the rest of the team on your way out, they follow. You walk side by side with Dembowski, while Janice lags back and whispers to the rest of them - Hopefully explaining your true reasoning, or what she's gleaned of it.

Bill hurriedly moves to join you and Dembowski, with a respectful nod to you - One that seems quite uncharacteristic of his typical demeanor. Hm. You reach the logistics hub within a few minutes. Most of the Garrison's central areas are within easy walking distance of each other, which is pleasant, in comparison to your first day of hiking around the District. The personnel there make way for you easily enough, allowing you into Don's office - The Coach himself is absent, handling some of the business you assigned him. Therefore, it's a simple task to begin digging through his files. Bill and Galle join you for this task, while Janice and River keep watch over the logistics center - And more surreptitiously, over Dembowski, who's awkwardly waiting with them as the rest of the team starts digging through the logistics logs.

When you're done with the initial review, you're partially relieved and partially exhausted. On one hand, it doesn't seem as if Cysat has anything to do with these logistics logs - Coach Don seems to handle most everything himself. However, unfortunately, that also directly implicates Coach Don in the smuggling operation you discovered, if that is what it is. You're able to cross-reference these logs with the reports you reviewed before coming, and the numbers are definitely changed. Could it be Cysat altering the numbers? Bill's rubbing his head as well, looking across the papers in Don's office.

"...I won't lie, Rosie. Doesn't look good, does it." He sighs. "I know this isn't a good showing for Stadium - But I do hope you won't let this color your perception of us." You shake your head. "I've worked with plenty of competent Stadium Coaches and personnel, during the war. I wouldn't let one bad experience sour me on the entire nation - However, I trust you can see why this is impacting my ability to put my trust into this Garrison, yes?"

He nods, starting to re-order the logs. "I still think there's a chance for them, though. I mean, Mars, handing off control of this place to the Watson Council? The Laborers? It'd be a mess. A clean sweep'll be better. Get rid of the Garrison's corrupt elements, clean out the Council's clock, whatever shady shit they're definitely up to, and ensure the FLA gets to a better place - Then the District can return to normal. No need for new elections, Laborers'll be pacified, MPA'll be happy…and we won't have handed the District over to University or to folks who'll fund insurgents."

Galle pipes up. "I think you're being a bit unkind, Bill - The Laborers aren't going to fund insurgents. Or, uh…at least not MUC insurgents. They're anarchists - They'll support anarchists and leftists abroad. Labor movements, too. We have to focus on the, ah…how did Brother Onon put it…the hearts and minds of the people we're helping - And the Laborers are clearly a good way to do that. If we just work with them and support them, they'll see how they can work within the MPA." You're not sure about that…and neither is Bill, it seems.

"Look, Galle - I get it. You're young, you-" She frowns. "I'm young, but I'm not stupid, Bill. Look, I realize that you're older than me, but that's no reason to treat me as if I have no idea what I'm talking about. I'm not a child." You cough, awkwardly, mentally trying to revise your image of Galle. You'll admit to somewhat patronizing her, at least internally. "Galle, Bill - I don't think there's any need to argue. We're here on a simple mission-" Bill barks out a laugh at that and Galle giggles, slightly. You smile, acknowledging the absurdity of the statement "Well, at least this part of it is simple. We've got the numbers - We've got the logs. We know that Don was the only one to handle this. Now, we're going to get him in here, and we're going to ask him why. And if he has a reason, then we'll have sorted this out - And if not, then there's no room for corruption in the MPA." You nod, the gesture mirrored by the two of them.

Galle glances to the side, at Bill, flushing slightly. "Sorry, Bill - I didn't mean to snap at you. I just…ah, I feel a bit awkward - You all are a bit older than me, or, well, a lot older, sorry-" He shakes his head, chuckling. "It's fine. I'm proud of my age - Shows my experience!" She nods, continuing. "And you all…well, you're a lot more comfortable in this sort of thing than I am. At that party - I really do appreciate you pulling me out, Rosalind, but I feel…like I'm in a sandstorm without a mask, sometimes - Like I'm choking on the unfamiliar atmosphere, and I wish I could just…acclimate already. And you all went out to that bar, and while I appreciated the time to meditate, I also felt a bit sad about being left out because it was an action I don't participate in, even if I was the one who turned you down, which is stupid, right?"

You and Bill glance at each other. This feels like a moment that's almost parental, which makes you somewhat uncomfortable - Galle's your coworker, after all, not your ward. You cough and speak up, choosing to frame it in that manner, rather than risking overstepping your bounds. "Galle, as…colleagues, especially in this position, we're expected to spend a lot of time around each other. And that means having clear lines of communication. If you'd like to suggest doing something else, we're more than willing to listen to you - It's our…professional responsibility, as colleagues." Bill chimes in. "And as friends, hopefully." You side-eye him - You were trying to keep this from getting too personal, to avoid potentially overstepping any professional boundaries or hurting Galle's feelings. Still, she seems comforted by this gesture and smiles.

"Right. Back to work, people - We've still got more logs to sort through, just in case there's any further malfeasance."

Now that your complete review is done, it seems Coach Don runs a tight ship - Bar for the smuggling operation that, legitimate purpose or not, you are now one hundred percent sure he must be involved in. Little is out of place, and what little is has reasons noted down in a tight scrawl, except for the supplies coming to and from the smuggling. That is left conspicuously blank to your trained eye if perhaps not as obvious to an untrained one. Still - It's enough evidence to call Don in, with Dembowski acting as an observer in addition to your team.

Within a few moments, he returns, accompanied by Janice and River. You're sitting in his seat - A power play you hope he appreciates, as he pales slightly. It seems he's picked up on the context of this visit. Will he drag it out…? "So, ah, Conductor - What can I do for ya?" Seems he will. You pick up the stack of papers you prepared for him, and gently nod for him to take a seat. He does so, the meekness displayed by his posture at odds with his stature - The man is a bit taller than average, now that you think about it. Regardless, you hand him the papers and let him look through them, his face slowly deflating with each piece of evidence.

He sighs. "I suppose the jig is up, then, eh?" You raise an eyebrow, letting him continue to dig his own grave. Dembowski is watching with surprise and more than a bit of pity. "Right. So, Conductor - You gotta understand, Hellas was…he was a good soldier, a real politician. I know that, I voted for the man, even if he turned out to be, uh, a real cheat, you know? But he had no head for numbers or logistics - Which isn't necessarily a problem! It's why my position exists." He rubs his forehead. "But that's where the problems started - Hellas wouldn't approve my requests for the things we needed - Not weapons, or ammunition, but vehicle maintenance supplies and technical parts - Things we needed to keep the Garrison at full functionality. Or, if he said they went through, I talked to Cysat and he told me that he never passed them along! He said they were inessential - That they were in too high demand! That it'd look bad if we kept requesting so many of them!" He shakes his head. "He didn't seem to get that they were in high demand because they were essential!"

River rolls her eyes and Janice seems nonplussed, but you, Bill, and Galle all grimace with some level of shared sympathy and disgust. Don continues, encouraged by the sympathetic reaction. "And so I had to make do. It wasn't strictly legal - And I'd never have been able to get Hellas to sign off on it. The man didn't want to give the Enforcers anything more than we needed to. But Rosa Lederberg had the parts we needed, and she wanted more materials for her people - So we worked out a deal. She'd get me the parts I needed if I got her the parts she needed. And everyone got what they needed! And it worked! Right up, well…" He sighs. "Yeah. Right up until now."

You glance at Dembowski, who shrugs helplessly. "Well…everyone sorta knew the Captain, er, Paul wasn't the best at that sort of thing. But Don seemed like he was handling it, so everyone figured it was going alright." She glances over. "You shoulda told us, Don." Don shakes his head. "And risk getting recalled and making the problem worse? Get Hellas pissed at me and see nothing change?" She shrugs, and River speaks up. "You said Cysat knew?" Don nods. "Yeah - He handled a lot of Hellas's paperwork." River nods and then follows up with another question. "Why not just have Cysat fake the paperwork, or slide it through?" Don pauses. "I won't lie and say the thought never occurred to me - I was in deep enough as is, though, no offense. For all that I was…uh…bending regs to get this sorted, in theory, it's technically legal-" Very technically. And if you find proof that the materials were used to conduct any illegal activity, then it's likely he'd be guilty of aiding and abetting it. Of course, that's if the man doesn't get recalled if you announce it to the rest of the Garrison. "And I didn't want to actually get into trouble for impersonating an officer and all that. To say nothing of what Hellas would've done if he'd found out - He did not like folks who tried to infringe on his authority."

You sigh. "Goalie Dembowski - Would you mind taking Coach Don outside for a moment? You two can sort out any personal business you have regarding this event while I consult with my team for a moment." They both nod, and Don stands, taking his leave, with Dembowski close behind. You can see them through the window of the door, though - If either of them makes a run for it, you'll know.

"Right. Team. Thoughts." They glance at each other.

Janice speaks first. "Eh. Coach Donovan didn't do anything wrong, in my opinion. He did what he had to. He even kept himself from crossing any really illegal lines in service of that, right?" She shrugs. "Not sure how else to put it, but without his work, the Garrison probably would've put itself a lot more at risk in any theoretical major uprising or insurgency." Sister Galle shakes her head, speaking up. "But he also prolonged Hellas's corruption - He didn't blow the whistle. It was, ah, River, it was cowardice! Like you said about Councilwoman Dollfus. He should've informed people - Not stayed silent and just…quietly sealed over the cracks."

Bill nods. "He would've been risking a lot to do that - But it would've been the right thing to do, in my book. Now, all this has been festering - And an unreliable group has a lot of Stadium weaponry stored away for a rainy day, or making its way out onto the black market. Looking into the Enforcers needs to be our next top priority." River shrugs. "Man did what he had to, Galle - Cowardice would've been not doing his duty, or trying to shirk it or shove it off onto someone else. I think the Garrison'll agree." You nod, listening to their points before speaking. "I do want to raise the point - If the Enforcers did anything illegal with that weaponry, he becomes at least partially liable for providing them with it, under MPA law." There's a round of grimaces at that. "Seems fair enough, but I don't think he ought to be removed without proof of that - Even though he did do this." Janice opines. Galle shakes her head. "He ought to be removed, in my opinion. Hellas is gone - There's no longer a need for his program, and he's just as guilty regarding corruption as Hellas was. It'd be easy to turn the existing ring here into an actual smuggling operation. We'd best shut it down and not give it a chance to fester - Like Bill said!" She looks over to him with a smile, and he nods. River shrugs. "I don't really have an opinion - Throw it out to the Garrison. He's their official. They can vote on whether or not to keep him."

You think about that…"Right, then. I've come to a decision."

When Coach Donovan and Goalie Dembowski re-enter, you inform them…

[] That Coach Donovan will be relieved of his position temporarily, pending a full investigation into what occurred with the items traded to the Enforcers.

[] That what occurred with the Enforcers will be publicized to the Garrison, who will be given the opportunity to recall him if so desired, pending a full investigation.

[] That judgment has been reserved until a full investigation can be performed by your team.

And once that's handled, you prepare to…

[] Interview Hellas - It's time to get the last bits of information out of him regarding his potential influence in the District and Garrison, as well as any connection he has to Cysat.

[] Confront Cysat - You've got what you can. Best to move quickly before there's any risk of a leak alerting Cysat that you're looking for him.

QM's Note: I'd like to welcome @grimely onboard as my newfound co-QM for this quest, and thank them for all the help they've given me in writing this update! Anyways, two votes today, so if y'all have any questions, just ask!

TheMaskedReader · Oct 13, 2022

Spaceport Strike!

Part Thirteen: Cleaning Up Cysat

After informing Coach Don of your decision, the man sighs. Not with relief, but not with despair, either. Just a sigh of pure release from responsibility for what's occurred - For now. Goalie Dembowski frowns, but doesn't argue with it - If she had, you'd probably have had to ensure that was publicized as well, after all. It wouldn't bode well if she had tried to argue against the democratic militia structure the Reds prized. Far too much damage has already been done. You don't want to submit a report declaring that the entire Garrison is beyond salvaging and needs a full replacement, though every time you think about the mess they've caused, the temptation to do just that gets stronger. Still, it would pull valuable trusted personnel off of regions that, frankly, are in far more need of an active military presence than this district was before this entire thing kicked off.

"Janice, Bill - Go get Cysat and bring him here. We're finishing this farce now. Once we're done cleaning house with command here, we'll interview Hellas and finish cleaning out the lower-ranking personnel of his influence, but the Garrison's command-" You nod to the Goalie and Coach. "Are having their reckoning right now." They nod, accepting your word on the matter, as your team goes to fulfill your orders. River drifts to be by your side, while Galle moves to offer what seems to be some small words of comfort to Dembowski and Don, who both look…stressed. Which is fair, of course - You've some small sympathy for them. Not as much as you would have if they had actually reported all this, but this seems like a difficult situation. Regardless - Don will have the soldiers decide his fate. Dembowski…well, she hasn't done anything wrong, as far as you can tell, besides not reporting things that were, frankly, outside her remit to investigate. Not like you can penalize her for being too good at sticking to only doing her job.

Within a few minutes, Bill and Janice return, Cysat in tow. "Oh, uh, Conductor. Don, Maxine - Good to see you all. Is something going on?" You grin internally - It's showtime. You stand, a stern expression on your face. "I think that's what you ought to tell us, Referee Cysat." You nod to Bill and Janice, and they step behind him, blocking the exit. He glances back and swallows nervously. "I-I'm not sure w-what you mean, Conductor." Dembowski speaks up, and you swallow back what you were about to say. "Look-" She glances at you. "Look - Jacob. They think you've been messing with some reports - But that's bullshit, right? You wouldn't lie to me, to us, to the Garrison like that." Don rubs the back of his head. Seems he's not as sure about that.

Jacob swallows again. "I-I, uh, I…" He stares down, at the ground, fingers tapping against his leg. You press on before he can collect himself. "Referee Cysat - We need an answer. Have you been falsifying reports against local businesses? Have you been forging documentation? Have you been sabotaging the Garrison in service of-" He interrupts you, face red with indignation. "I would never! I would never sabotage the Garrison! This is, this is bullshit - No, I didn't fake any reports. I took what I got from Alex and I collected them and I passed them along." You take note of that - Alex as in Alex Byrd…Might as well ask. "Alex Byrd, of the Watson Council?" Don winces. He knows Cysat just made a mistake - One that's likely doomed him. Your estimation of him goes up a notch. Cysat doesn't seem to notice, though, and nods. "That's right - I didn't fake any of them." You tap your fingers against the desk, leaning forward. "Then why have so few of them turned up results? Why have the Enforcers not been handling it, if it wasn't insurgent activity? Why have you been targeting nigh-exclusively local cooperative businesses? What possible reason could there be for that, Referee? Explain yourself." He stammers and stutters some more, not managing to get a coherent sentence out, before Dembowski moves to his side, offering a calming hand on his shoulder.

He nods to her and takes a deep breath. "I-, look, I just handled Hellas's paperwork. He…was a good soldier. He wasn't a good commander. And so we all had to pick up the slack, you know? No offense, Maxine, but you got off pretty lightly - The martial aspect of things was something he was good at. Don, you know what I'm talking about, though, right?" Don coughs, before nodding slightly, an embarrassed look on his face, given that his particular indiscretions in aiding the Captain's lack of knowledge have already been revealed to you. "And I had to handle the relations with the public and the Council. Alex's been a huge help to me - I couldn't have done any of it without him. We're making a path forward for the District - One that sees it integrated as an equal part of Stadium under local governance." You slowly nod, raising an eyebrow. "And what does this have to do with the reports filed, Referee?" He snaps a bit. "I'm getting there! Just, just please wait." You shrug.

"So-Look. I'm just a Referee-in-Training - I couldn't stand up to Hellas. But when I heard his plans, I knew they spelled disaster with a capital D. Everything Stadium was trying to build here was going to fall apart around us - Everything me and Alex had worked on! It was a nightmare waiting to happen, and the Laborers weren't helping. So, measures had to be taken. Alex collected reports about all of the people he thought were helping insurgents on the Council, and their business - People who would turn the strike into a bloodbath. Meanwhile, I…held up Hellas's plans - Kept him too worried about official responses from up high and the Council's reports to take decisive action that would burn everything down. But, uh…then you arrived. And…just…kind of wiped Hellas out." He coughs, looking straight at you. "Yeah. That's the truth."

River leans in, to whisper into your ear. "I'm sure you get this - But this man is definitely lying through his teeth." You nod to her, and she nods back. "Let's finish this, then."

"I'm afraid your explanation is unsatisfactory, Referee Cysat - It would be, if this pattern of behavior had not been occurring since before the Laborer issue began. After all, it was the Laborers who collected this information and gave it to us - One of their initial grievances against the Garrison and Council, you see." He blanches. Seems he didn't expect that. "Now, then. Let's hear the true story, if you would." He glances up at Dembowski, who squeezes his shoulder a bit, as she looks down at him with uncertainty in her eyes. "I…Jacob…I think you'd better tell the lady whatever happened. I dunno what to think anymore." He sighs. "I-I…"

"Alright. Alright." He steps away from Dembowski, starting to pace while rubbing his forehead. "Alright. Fine. Yeah. I…I didn't want it to come out like this. Me and Alex…ugh…Well…The Captain hasn't exactly been subtle. Especially not to me. I knew he wanted the District in his palm - That he thought it was the best way to do this. I knew that he would screw up, that he was nowhere near as competent as he thought he was. Alex and I got to talking since we came into contact a lot through my work. He believed in the cause - He believed in Stadium. We knew if we worked together, we could outmaneuver Hellas and the Council." The tone he talks about Byrd in…you frown. Something's…not off, but something's there.

"...In some cases, that meant directing the Garrison's attention to certain…parts of Lederberg's machinations - Those businesses weren't insurgent, but they certainly weren't innocent, either! Lederberg and her Enforcers would never have investigated them - She's as corrupt as Hellas was." Dembowski groans. "Oh, Jacob…" He glances over at her with a guilty look on his face. You're picking up more of that oddness - This isn't just about the scheme. What is it…You just can't pick up on it. Curses.

"The rest is true - I kept Hellas too worried about watching eyes to take drastic action. Though…it seems he found a way to circumvent that." Ah-hah! That does answer a lingering question you had - Why did Hellas not want to move against the Laborers directly unless he absolutely had to? The answer, apparently, is Cysat stoking his paranoia about oversight causing him to be removed if he did. Which, in turn…meant he turned to the FLA…Mars. "Meanwhile, Alex worked on the Council - Fought back against Lederberg's brutish force and Dollfus's bourgeoise apathy." Dembowski is pinching her nose at this, and Don is just staring at the ground. The idea of replacing the entire Garrison is once more becoming a tempting prospect in your mind, in the face of this. If this gets out, Byrd's faction is likely as good as dead - Dollfus and Lederberg will likely temporarily unite forces to drive him out, if the people aren't calling for his head first for collaborating with the Garrison to, essentially, shoot the District in the foot economically for his own political gain. This, of course, is to say nothing about the impact this will have in validating the Laborers…honestly, though, you're having some issues not validating the Laborers in your own mind, at this point. This is…certainly something!

"Conductor, you have to believe me - Me and Alex, our plan is the only hope for this District to actually integrate into the MPA. If he manages to drive out Dollfus and Lederberg, and if you all-" He gestures to the Garrison. "Agree, then we can ensure that the Watson Council reforms to Stadium standards, becomes truly democratic without ceding ground to University or Lederberg, end all the corruption plaguing the Garrison from Hellas, and finally have peace in the district!" He smiles, hopefully. "Alex and I have it all planned out - We just need your support. And once that's done, he won't even keep power or anything, he's not Hellas - He promised that we'd retire together, to some quiet part of the city." Your mind runs a mile a minute. This is…god, what a clusterfuck.

There's only one answer to this. You resolve to…

[] Back Byrd and Cysat's plot.

You can't afford to let the MPA's reputation degrade any further, and this would practically be a deathblow to Stadium's legitimacy in the District. Hellas is bad enough, but this validates everyone's worst accusations about the Garrison interfering in local politics. It is what it is, but sometimes some eggs must be cracked to make some omelets.
Your thread options will shift to driving out the other factions in the Watson Council, bringing the Laborers to the table, and ensuring that the Garrison goes along with this.

[] Arrest Cysat and investigate Byrd quietly.

You can't allow this to get out, but you can't allow Cysat to walk free either. You'll arrest him under charges of corruption and disguise it as part of the general sweep against Hellas's influence. Byrd will have to be brought in through either his own crimes or less savory means, such as blackmailing him with this entire affair.
Cysat will be arrested, but Byrd will take extra work to be rid of.

[] Arrest Cysat and just publicly arrest Byrd for his indiscretions.

Fuck it! Not like it's the MPA's reputation being trashed here - Heck, if you spin it right, the MPA might even come off looking like the good guys here. At the cost of Stadium's reputation, most assuredly, but they got themselves into this mess and now you're having to pick up the pieces. Besides - if you intend to favor anyone other than Byrd (or the Garrison), this makes that much, much easier.
Cysat will be arrested and, at a time of your choosing, so too will Byrd. This provides you a powerful trump card to play in many circumstances…if also sinking any chance that the Garrison or Stadium will remain a dominant power in the District.

A second after you make your choice, before you have time to say anything, Goalie Dembowski and Coach Don seem to put something together that none of your group have. Don audibly gasps, and Dembowski flushes red. "...Jacob." She growls out. "You're going to retire with…with this…with this-Are you, but, what about Max, what about-" …Max? Who's Max?

Cysat puts up his hands, stepping away from Dembowski. "...We love each other, Maxine. I was going to tell Max eventually." Dembowski's clear anger seems to only intensify. "...You son of a bitch, you cheated on my brother with some, with some fucking politican out here-" She's taking deep breaths. So, wait, Max is her brother? Max and Maxine? Really? You suppose there's no accounting for taste. As you're ruminating on that, blissfully unaware of what's about to happen, Don is hastily standing up, while Janice, River, and Bill, having correctly read the room, are already stepping forward - Or in River's case, stepping in front of you.

From behind River, you hear Dembowski roar - "I'll kill you, you fucking CHEAT! NOBODY HURTS MY LITTLE BROTHER!" And then the room devolves into a cacophony of noise and crashes as numerous people throw themselves at each other. You stumble slightly as River forces you backward, yells echoing throughout the office as the fight begins in earnest. "Get offa him, Maxine! He ain't worth it!" "Goalie Dembowski, get off of the suspect, NOW!" "I'LL KILL HIM!" "Holy shit, she's stronger than I remember-Janice, get her other arm before she-!" "Mars, Maxine, I was going to tell him-ACK!" That last one is cut off with a wheeze, as if the speaker had his air supply cut off in the middle of speaking. Fortunately, by the time River moves out of the way to assist the other three in holding Dembowski back, while Galle watches in stunned silence and Cysat lies on the floor, clutching his neck, where several bright red hand imprints are visible - Presumably from Dembowski attempting to choke the life out of him.

You collect yourself from your brief stumble and take a second to think…So, that's what you'd been missing about Cysat's behavior earlier! Ah…that makes sense. Well, time to lay down the law, now that that's all figured out - This required correction of some kind…or, maybe it didn't. "Now that that shameful display, unbefitting of Stadium officials-" You glare at Dembowski, who glares right back, even as she slowly stops straining against the now four people keeping ahold of her. "-is concluded, it seems I have another decision to make."

[] "Goalie Dembowski, you are hereby relieved of your position effective immediately, for committing the crimes of assault and, possibly, attempted murder, though I will leave that up to the judgment of the Referee Corps. You will be placed under arrest for said crimes, and held until trial can be arranged with an actual Referee."

Goalie Dembowski is arrested. It is highly likely that the Garrison is left, essentially, rudderless unless Cysat is aided or Coach Don survives the likely recall attempt.

[] "Goalie Dembowski, you're on enforced leave, pending an announcement of what occurred to the Garrison, who will decide if you are to be recalled over this. Take the time you need to cool off and prepare for the announcement."

Goalie Dembowski will have her situation announced at the same time as Coach Don. The Garrison will decide her future. You, however, will not have her arrested, regardless of the outcome.

[] "Goalie Dembowski, you are dismissed - Not from office, no, don't take that the wrong way. You're dismissed from this office, but not-You know what I mean. Just take whatever time you need to cool off, then get back to work. The Garrison needs you to be on top of your game, and with all the disruption already, we need to ensure that actual counter-insurgency work isn't disrupted, an area in which I consider you to be one of the few, if not the only, competent commander left within this Garrison to perform."

Goalie Dembowski will remain in her position and continue to work as per normal.

QM's Note: The vote is open, and it is time to decide the fate of (most) of the Garrison's remaining leadership, as well as decide whether or not to take advantage of yet another plot to take over Watson District...how many of those could there be left?

Also, our first actual fight, short as it was!

TheMaskedReader · Oct 15, 2022

An Excerpt From The MPA Citizen's Guide to Traveling Mariner City in Safety and Comfort (First Edition) - Chapter Eleven: Watson District

Prelude to the MPA Citizen's Guide to Traveling Mariner City in Safety and Comfort

In the aftermath of the changes that have swept Mars, which have seen governments rise and fall, nations collapse, and the pallor of war fall across all of Mars, there has been a great shift in the nature of travel, as well as what is to be expected to remain both safe and comfortable. Therefore, it has been deemed necessary by the editors of the Station Citizen's Guide to Traveling Mariner City in Safety and Comfort to update our prior publication, and issue a new one, fit for both Station residents and citizens of the Martian Popular Authority at large. We thank our long-time readers for their continued interest and welcome new ones to the wonders of travel for fun and valuable life experiences - We hope that our guide is both informative and helpful in advancing your goal to travel in the largest city on Mars.

Chapter One: Your Arrival in Mariner City

[...]

Chapter Eleven: Watson District

Watson District lies in the northern part of Mariner City, marking an important boundary between Stadium, University, and as of yet unclaimed territory - Currently managed in a mixture of Stadium-staffed garrisons and autonomous local governments, following the conclusion of the Great Game of Mariner City. With this in mind, many travelers to Mariner City will find themselves passing through this historic district, and we here at the Guide even recommend such a stop - Not only is Watson District often safer than many eastern routes, it also provides a chance to see a valuable piece of pre-Collapse history, currently being restored by the Martian Popular Authority - The Mariner City Spaceport, as well as amenities for both the average tourist and the discerning connoisseur.

What is the History of Watson District?

Watson District is one of the oldest districts in Mariner City, boasting historic office blocks, habitation buildings, and administrative buildings which date back to the initial founding of the city. Early settlers utilized the Spaceport as their primary way of receiving supply shipments and new colonists, and for a time, MarsGov itself was centered out of the administrative buildings of the Spaceport, though this was later transferred to the control of the Martian Interstellar Cargo Commission upon completion of City Hall. The MICC later wound up renting out the majority of the oversized office complex, as administrative needs went down and corporate needs went up, especially with the Central Executive pursuing public-private partnerships, ala their wildly successful deals with ODIN Incorporated.

With this, Watson District became the heart of interstellar commerce on Mars for years, going from a place to receive supplies to a place to export them. Trade and tourism flourished, and the district saw industrial shipping become a mainstay of its burgeoning industry. However, its days as the primary point of origin on Mars were numbered, as MarsGov and the United Nations began construction on a space elevator, aiming to replicate the success of such projects in economic stimulation on Luna. When the space elevator project was finished, industrial shipping through Watson District wound down, the Spaceport becoming little more than a hangar for ships who needed to dock on Mars for a prolonged period of time and shipping that, for whatever reason, couldn't be handled through the Space Elevator. Rumors of illegal smuggling abound in historical records of the time, and given the situation, it is likely that it was in fact utilized to dodge unwieldy tariffs and taxation by Martian corporations, using private vessels to transport high-value, low-quantity goods off of Mars, though not by the dashing privateers often imagined in more romantic depictions of the pre-Collapse era.

Though the District had not entered into an economic downfall, things certainly had become tighter for the residents, and with anxieties coming to a head politically and economically, it is likely that, had the Collapse not occurred, Watson District would have seen rapid growth in unions akin to the Hephaestus mines, perhaps forming the core of a renaissance for labor politics in Mariner City. However, unfortunately, the Collapse occurred at around this point in time, and so we can only speculate. Post-Collapse, Watson District was largely abandoned - The large, above-ground facilities made for poor shelter from the elements, and many feared that the District would become a target of vengeful bombardment from any surviving ships in orbit seeking to destroy any military survivors of the conflicts above. In the years that passed, though, as survivors solidified themselves, people filtered back into Watson District. Former warehouses became workshops, hab blocks turned into homes, and administrative offices became home to various independent groups operating their own measures of protection and business. Once more, Watson District turned into a hub of independent trade and life, much as it had been in the early days of Martian colonization.

Like much of Mariner City, Watson District continued on like this in comfortable stability until the arrival of Central, who disrupted the prior status quo. Their rapid expansion and revanchist motivations saw much of Mariner City under their heel quick enough, which included Watson District. Though the New Gorbals Massacre did not directly impact Watson District, the diplomatic aftermath did - Being on the border of Stadium, Central, and University meant they saw an increased military presence. However, it also meant that when the Martian League was formed, they saw a boom in travel, trade, and tourism, with the Laborers of the Martian League being formed and contracted to rebuild the Spaceport as part of the Martian League's international efforts to reignite space travel and cooperation.

Of course, we all know what happened next - With the arrival of the United Nations, the Martian League fell apart, and Watson District became a frontline of the Unification War. It was one of the most frequently assaulted districts of the War, including two of the largest battles fought during the course of the conflict, as often noted by historians. Alas, Watson District saw much devastation wreaked upon it. However, its people persevered - And due to its position on the frontlines, it was spared much further damage in the aftermath and cleanup operations that were required to ensure that MUC remnants were firmly driven out of Mariner City. Now, Watson District is beginning to thrive once more, under the guiding hand of the Watson Council, the local government, who are charting a path to a bright future for the district.

Where Should I Go In Watson District?

Watson District is, while damaged by the war, still a lively hub of places to go and things to do! Here's our list of recommended spots to visit while you're in Watson District.

The Spaceport
While it's unlikely you'll be able to get into the Spaceport, the grand structures and open expanse is still worth a trip. If you get lucky, the Laborers of the Martian League may even be hosting a tour of the recently restored areas of the administrative building, allowing for a wonderful glimpse into Martian History! Of special note is the launchpad of League One, a prime hotspot for visitors to the District - A monument to the potential cooperation can bring, as well as the evil that reaction can subvert such cooperation towards.

The Watson District Marketplace Plaza and Courthouse
Likely an unknown phenomenon for many of our Station readers, the Watson District Marketplace is an area where various craftspeople, cooperatives, and independent workers set up stalls to barter and trade with other such people, as well as tourists and residents of the District. This plaza is the premier place to go for sampling any and all of the District's many locally produced goods - Just make sure to bring something worth trading for!

Meanwhile, standing proud and tall above it, is the restored Watson District Courthouse, the current home of the Watson Council. While utilized as a garrison house by Central forces during the war, the Watson Council speedily ensured that this monument to Mariner City history was reconstructed following the conclusion of the War, providing both a home for their governance processes and a window into what life might have been like for those citizens who underwent MarsGov's justice system pre-Collapse. Tours happen once daily, and are led by Watson Council personnel, who are able to give details about various aspects of the current occupants and reconstruction!

Watson District Historical Recreation Society
A group of Mariner City citizens, inspired by the simple and plain lifestyle of those who lived in the past, decided to replicate it in their living habits, claiming it to be a healthier and more moral way of living! Living in an unrefurbished hab block, these citizens allow visitors a view into their way of life, recreating the living conditions of the original settlers of Mariner City. While some compromises were, of course, taken to ensure both the safety of participants and the ability of the society to conduct business normally in the outside world, within the walls of their compound, they are indistinguishable from what life must have been like pre-Collapse, and often adopt characters suited to the time period! They offer weekly tours of the compound, which must be booked in advance.

University Gates
On the border that Watson District shares with University sit the famed University Gates, which have welcomed those seeking knowledge to the lands of the polity since their construction seventy years ago. Written in wrought-iron lettering above the gates is University's Motto - "Ne Quid Nimus". Annually, though disrupted by the war in recent years, graduates have triumphantly marched out through these gates as a way of symbolizing their attainment of a degree from University, an achievement few accomplish. Access to the gates is not restricted, though a guard has been posted to ensure vandals do not attempt to deface it.

Where Can I Get What I Need in Watson District?

As always, the ready traveler must prepare themselves adequately for any journey - This means knowing the landscape, as well as where one is going to eat, sleep, and retrieve further supplies from. We here at the Guide recommend these spots as being prime purveyors of whatever is needed for your journey to continue.

Robbie's Food Hall
Despite its unassuming name, Robbie's Food Hall has made its reputation as being the best place to eat in all of Watson District - A reputation it has lived up to fully. A Pre-Collapse pub, often frequented by laborers who worked in the shipping industry, the Collapse brought with it a new calling for the stubborn family who owned and lived in it - Supplying free food and drink to the desperate survivors of the event with their ample pantries and connections. Now over a century old, Robbie's Food Hall continues to deliver on its promise of quality community food for no cost.

Fight and Flight
A relatively new addition to Watson District's collection of hospitable temporary homes for travelers, Fight and Flight is a worker cooperative that brands itself as a combination retro-Spaceport-aesthetic hostel and an authentic war memorial, including mementos from civilians lost in the fighting and an ongoing project to collect the names of all those who perished in Watson District. While some may criticize this choice as a tasteless attempt to distinguish oneself from the masses of other hostels, the Guide merely passes judgment on the quality of service provided - Which is acceptable, mostly due to the frequent presence of Watson Council Enforcers who ensure no trouble comes the way of any travelers. Fight and Flight is almost certainly one of the safest places to stay in Watson District - If not necessarily the most tasteful.

The Workman's Barracks
Constructed during the building of League One, the Barracks was intended to be a home for laborers working on the Spaceport - And while it has remained one, it has also opened its doors for travelers, residents, and refugees of all types. Though often at full capacity, the excellent construction of the building and top-notch service provided by its staff, themselves members of the Laborers of the Martian League, make the Barracks our top recommendation for comfortable lodgings within the Watson District. A stay comes with two meals a day at posted hours, though we personally recommend eating out if you do not enjoy cafeteria fare.

Where Do I Go From Here?

Watson District is a crossroads for many travelers. Some may choose to continue traveling north, towards University and possibly even into Candor Chasma. Some may choose to venture east, heading into less controlled territory. Others may choose to head south, aiming for Melas Chasma. And, of course, there is always the option of going west, into Stadium's core territory, to experience the lively options available there.

Still, the Guide cannot make these choices for you, dear reader. We, therefore, recommend that you take your time in Watson District not just to see the sights - But also to contemplate where your journey through Mariner City will take you, and to plan out your itinerary before traveling further in any direction, so as to best enjoy your time in Mariner City. And with that, we bid farewell to Watson District, and move on toward our next destination.

QM's Note: This particular guide was written before the current troubles in Watson District, as you may be able to tell. Anyways, the posting of this particular sidestory also lets me close the vote in about 24 hours, which hopefully is plenty of time!

TheMaskedReader · Oct 16, 2022

Scheduled vote count started by TheMaskedReader on Oct 13, 2022 at 10:20 PM, finished with 7 posts and 6 votes.

6 people have voted
[X] "Goalie Dembowski, you are dismissed - Not from office, no, don't take that the wrong way. You're dismissed from this office, but not-You know what I mean. Just take whatever time you need to cool off, then get back to work. The Garrison needs you to be on top of your game, and with all the disruption already, we need to ensure that actual counter-insurgency work isn't disrupted, an area in which I consider you to be one of the few, if not the only, competent commander left within this Garrison to perform."
5 people have voted
[X] Arrest Cysat and investigate Byrd quietly.
1 people have voted
[X] Arrest Cysat and just publicly arrest Byrd for his indiscretions.
- maelstrom.seeker

TheMaskedReader · Oct 20, 2022

Spaceport Strike!

Part Fourteen: Hellas's Holding Cell

Dembowski blinks in surprise, then begrudgingly nods, lowing her glare towards the floor. It's clear she isn't happy, but, well, that's just too bad. You look towards Don. "Take her out of here. You two talk through whatever you need to." You glance towards River and Janice. "Handle Mister Cysat there - Make sure his cell isn't near Hellas's, and make sure it's clear that he was arrested for corruption - do not give details unless you have to. Myself, Galle, and Bill will join you shortly." Cysat still seems to be too out of it to protest much, even as he's hauled up on the arms of River and Janice as they escort him out of the room. Don and Dembowski are not far behind.

You take a seat in Don's chair, taking a moment to just…breathe, closing your eyes. You listen to the faint whir of the building's ventilation system that you can hear, as well as the slight shuffling of feet as Bill and Galle step towards the door, before pausing and waiting for you. "Uh…Rosalind?" Galle ventures. "Did you…want to talk to us?" You nod, still not speaking, but opening your eyes to look at them. Bill's frowning and Galle looks a tad nervous.

"Galle - If you need to take a second to calm down, that's fine. I noticed you were the only one not to leap into the fight - And there's nothing wrong with that. But I wanted to give you a chance to calm down if you needed it, before we kept going." She blinks, then nods. "Oh, uh, I appreciate it, Rosalind! I'm good, though, promise. I was just a bit…surprised? That's all. Nobody got hurt, though, so it's fine! Or, well, uh, hurt seriously." Bill leans against the wall, rubbing the back of his head. "No offense, Rosie - I assume the reason you want to speak to me ain't so pleasant." You nod.

"Unfortunately, that's true. It's not a reflection of your personal conduct at all, though. I just want your opinion, before I start to wrap things up. We've only really got one thing left that needs my personal attention, everything after that is likely going to just be the work of cleaning up subordinates and interviewing personnel. Which means that if you're going to give me your perspective on all this, I need to hear it now, before we get wrapped up in everything else."

He sighs. "...I mean, fuck, I don't wanna defend this, Rosie - We agree that it's a mess! It should never have gotten this bad. But, like…gah. It's bad people. I don't know what to say besides that. For as much as I, personally, disagree with how the Reds do things - The team, you know." You nod. "This is very much a case of their system being…well, corrupted. Not functioning as intended. Once everything rotten's all cleaned out, I don't know if things'll be better, but they probably won't start cheating again. And, look, for as bad as things were - A lot of it was in reaction to other things, which, hopefully, by the end of this, we'll have resolved. I think if we let 'em keep doing their counter-insurgency thing without subordinating them to anyone, with your red cards hanging over their head, they'll stay in line this time. If I had to take a guess for their next leader, Don and Maxine are the two most likely candidates for Captain, and Don'll probably refuse the position if he's got anything to say about it - if your reveal doesn't sink it, which it probably will. Which means it'll be Maxine. And, uh, no offense, Rosie…while I don't think you've won any points with her…" You grimace, but nod. The woman already disliked Bill, and after this fiasco, you're fairly sure any hope of you two becoming personally friendly is sunk. "...She'll also probably keep things on the straight and narrow - Reds hate cheats, as a rule, and if there's one thing I know about her, she's an honest Red - Team's her life."

Galle, having sat down, speaks up. "...Honestly, Bill? Uh, may I speak, Rosalind?" She glances over at you and you nod. "...I don't think we can trust the Garrison with this authority again - I don't think anyone should be trusted with this authority in this situation, again, frankly, though I'm not sure how to replace it. Even if we've removed all, the, uh, 'cheats', the underlying issues remain. The Garrison was able to do this because they had no oversight, no…well, they had no reliable supervision. They're not subordinate to the local government, and their government is so overstretched that it's unable to keep an eye on them. You've got all the cards here, frankly, Rosalind. I think you should either, uh, get the Garrison replaced entirely, maybe with a more neutral MPA member's troops? Station, maybe?" You shake your head. That's not a likely proposition - Biodyne's unlikely to be able to move a sufficient number of soldiers through MBC territory, University is…University, and Station's overstretched as well, militarily. "Well, then, maybe subordinate the Garrison to whoever winds up running the local government, provided they aren't, you know, corrupt. Not necessarily through a formal arrangement or anything - Just make it clear that, uh, seeking the Council's advice and consent or whatever is needed, if they don't want you to see them all replaced. Maybe it won't eradicate the possibility of corruption, but it could make it harder to be corrupt - And easier to figure it out. I wish we could just get rid of them, but that's not a viable thing, with the MUC and such still running around…" She sighs.

Bill pipes up, looking uncomfortable. "...I wouldn't advise that, Rosie. Subordinating Stadium troops to any local government's a bad precedent to set, and if that local government winds up collaborating with the MUC or anti-MPA groups - Well, what're you gonna do then? The Garrison's a counterbalance to local power, to ensure that the values of the MPA are kept…even if this particular Garrison's been a pretty bad example of it."

You listen, then stand with a sigh. "Thank you for your input. I'll remember this." When the time comes…You'll have to make a choice about the future of the Garrison in Watson District.

—

A few moments later, you're striding to the cells of the Garrison, entering the building you recall from yesterday. The same militiaman is on duty, reading again, though he snaps to attention with a hasty salute. "Conductor, ma'am! Uh…are you looking for your comrades? They're-" You shake your head. "I'm here to interview Hellas." He nods, standing. "Right - Allow me to escort you. Will your companions be joining you, ma'am?" You glance at Bill and River. "Would you two mind waiting here for River and Janice? When I'm done, we'll handle the remaining cleanup." The warden flinches slightly at the word…perhaps seeing Cysat arrested caused some distress? Oh, well. They nod, and you proceed down the hall, following the warden.

"So…uh…I wanted to ask you this, Conductor - Can, uh, prisoners be allowed visitors? Typically for MUC prisoners and, uh, insurgents, we…don't get many visitors for them. But, uh…" He's trying to dance around the fact that since its Stadium personnel who are being arrested, that much of the Garrison likely wishes to see them. "...All but Hellas and Cysat may be allowed visitors as per your discretion, or the discretion of whoever is on duty at that point in time, though do take proper logs of such - Goalie Dembowski may have discretion on any visitors Cysat and Hellas may receive, and they must have her explicit written permission, which will be appropriately logged and cataloged." He nods. "Yes, ma'am. And, uh, I'll make sure to make a proper log of your visit once I get back, ma'am!" You smile. It seems they're starting to correct themselves.

"Anyways, uh, here we are." He stands in front of an unassuming door, pulling keys off his belt to unlock it, though he does knock. "C-Hellas, you've got a visitor! Are you able to receive them at this moment?" A muffled voice, identifiable as the ex-Captain, comes back. "Who is it?" You stand back patiently, as the warden yells again. "It's Conductor Beriel, Paul!" His voice comes through again. "Alright - She can come in." The warden opens the door, nodding to you. "I'll be just outside, ma'am, if you need anything."

As you step inside, you note the accommodations. A bed, a chair, a desk, a small adjoining bathroom…paper, a pencil…a few books…it seems like the Garrison doesn't judge him to be a risk. Which, well, you wouldn't either. Hellas sits in the chair, turned towards the door, a book open on the desk behind him. You recognize it - A rather thick mystery novel, written by some University professor. You recall it being displayed in one of Station's libraries that you visited - Something about 'Our Favorite Reads'. The title was…Ah, yes - The Vice of Candor, by Patricia Parlington. A solid 3.5/5, in your opinion.

"Enjoying the book, Hellas?" He shrugs. "It's good, I suppose, Conductor." The room goes silent. You stare at him, waiting, and he stares back. Eventually, he breaks - And lets out a tiny giggle. "Fuck - I know this is some power play, and I'm sick of playing these games anyways. I'm going to be judged anyhow - No point in drawing it out. What is it, Conductor? Come to interrogate me about my accomplices? You'll be happy to know I acted completely alone in my actions, then." Ah, he's moved onto the stage where he hopes to martyr himself. You're glad that he's past the point of denial, at least. "No, Hellas - Do you mind if I call you Paul? I apologize, but calling you Hellas seems to be so…well, clunky, given the nature of our conversation." He shrugs. "I cannot stop you."

You nod, continuing. "No, Paul - I came to verify a few things. Really, we've already rolled up most of the sources of corruption in the Garrison. All that remains is cleaning out the few that remain who avoided being involved with the major sources." He raises an eyebrow. "I doubt you'll be happy to know that Mister Cysat has been arrested and that Coach Don will be up for recall in a matter of days, if that." He frowns. "You are correct. That is…dark news - I…do not necessarily doubt your veracity, even if I disagree with your ideological and moral convictions. What did they do?" You explain their situations, and he listens along, nodding, frowning, and looking more and more stricken throughout.

"...Mars." He sighs, leaning his head down into his hands. "...I truly have been a fool, haven't I?" You compare this man to the man you met a day ago - And find him far more defeated and broken than he was. You find this state of affairs more palatable, though, and so you speak. "I would not deny that, yes. Your actions have led to much suffering - Much more than was needed. And if I had not stopped you in your tracks, they likely would have led to far more." Perhaps a bit harsh, but it is the truth. He groans into his hands.

"...I still believe I did the right thing - Knowing what I did, at the time. Obviously, knowing what I know now…I would have taken different actions, but…" You sigh. You do not have time for his excuses or internal crises. You are here for a purpose. "Paul. I appreciate the self-reflection, but we do have limited time here. If I am to clean up not just the Garrison, but this entire District, then we are going to need to keep things on track, mhm?" He glances up, eyes ablaze with an ember of that fervor you saw before, clearly about to retort - But it winks out when he meets your eyes. He sighs. "Let's…just get it over with, I suppose. What do you need to know?"

Your interview is lengthy and involved, covering many topics. You fail to get him to give up anyone involved within the Garrison, though you doubt it'll be that difficult to clean them up, given the lack of competence in management he's displayed thus far. He has far more to say about the rest of the District, however.

With regards to the Free Labor Association - He characterizes their leaders, the Syrtis sisters, as being highly opportunistic. He doubts they care too much about the conflict, or anything beyond their small community. If he hadn't taken advantage of their offer, it's likely the Council or even the Laborers would've wound up being convinced by them, in some way. While those opportunities have likely gone up in smoke, the Sisters remain - And he's sure that they'll be looking for a way to benefit from this situation. He does firmly deny any knowledge of who started the fire in their initial encampment, though.

As for the Watson Council - He thinks Byrd's amiable and hardworking enough but completely untrustworthy. Hellas describes him as not being a 'team player', which, to translate the Stadium idiom, is essentially saying that someone wants the benefits that come with a position without having to actually commit to it. In comparison, Dollfus is a 'spectator' - Someone with no skin in the game, but who comes out to watch out of amusement or light interest. To Hellas, this is something viewable with disdain, but not active contempt. That, he saves for Rosa Lederberg - Described by Hellas as being a "snake in the grass.", among quite a few other harsh words. He seems to take umbrage with her politics, her role in the Council, and her general attitude. "Barely any better than an MCPD defector." is one of the ways he describes her, which you mentally note down with no small amount of humor.

Finally, discussing the Laborers of the Martian League - Hellas largely seems to think of them as being, similar to his earlier rhetoric, a 'cartel'. He describes them as spreading their tendrils all throughout the district, beyond the initial realm of construction work that they inhabited upon their inception as a union. He also paints a picture of them using force more often than diplomacy - Of vocal opponents being found beaten and bruised, if alive, frequent confrontations with Enforcers, and of cooperatives and craftspeople alike facing harassment, vandalism, and threats if they refused to align with the Laborers.

By the end of it, you thank him, and he simply nods. "I still have faith I will be acquitted - What I did was right. I hope you too, will see that, eventually." You shrug. "That is not my call to make, Paul. Best of luck at your trial - I doubt we'll be seeing each other again before then." You exit back into the hall, and are escorted back to the lobby by the warden, where your team is waiting, chatting amongst themselves. You allow yourself a small smile at that - It's good to see more camaraderie start to develop.

—

The rest of your day is consumed with minutia. Further interviews, a few more arrests, and quite a bit of paperwork that you take no small amount of pleasure in filling out and filing correctly. You feel in your element in a way you haven't necessarily felt for much of this journey, thus far, though that's not to say you haven't enjoyed quite a bit of it, bar the obvious issues. Still - It's very much not as…wild, for lack of a better word, as much of the preceding part of the day was. At the end of it, you think you've left the Garrison in a place where whoever winds up taking the burden of Captain can, provided that they're honest, ensure that things never get quite so bad again.

Tonight, your companions choose to split up - And, not wishing to spend your night alone, you wind up having to make a choice…though Bill excuses himself before any other, and asks nobody to come with him - He says he needs to keep an eye on the pulse of the Garrison, in a way that only a long-time Stadium citizen can, and that it's best done alone. You personally think he just needs some time to think over the events of today, alone, but you're not going to press him on it.

You wind up…

[] Joining Janice as she goes with a group of Stadium militia, including Militiawoman Batson, to the same bar you visited last night.

[] Going with Galle to visit the local congregation of the Mother, Mars, for tonight's services.

[] Running with River by the Marketplace in the District, in some night-time exercise.

TheMaskedReader · Oct 27, 2022

Scheduled vote count started by TheMaskedReader on Oct 20, 2022 at 6:59 PM, finished with 7 posts and 7 votes.

5 people have voted
[X] Joining Janice as she goes with a group of Stadium militia, including Militiawoman Batson, to the same bar you visited last night.
1 people have voted
[X] Going with Galle to visit the local congregation of the Mother, Mars, for tonight's services.
- Tabascoheath
1 people have voted
[X] Running with River by the Marketplace in the District, in some night-time exercise.
- MordredRaal

TheMaskedReader · Oct 28, 2022

Spaceport Strike!

Part Fifteen: Sugar and Spice

You have to jog slightly to catch up Janice and her newfound acquaintances as they stride in the direction of the bar, joining them without much of a fuss, though a few of them do glance apprehensively at you. Janice's nod and a few quiet words from her seems to settle any issues that might have been brewing about you choosing to accompany the group, as does Militiawoman Batson's aid in such. You suppose it's not to be unexpected, that after such an…impression you've made in recent days, that they might fear you're only coming with them to get intelligence or keep an eye on them. It is the peril of the bureaucrat's job - Perhaps someone who was more skilled in the art of instilling camaraderie or simply more charismatic would've been able to forge that connection. Alas, that is not your skillset.

Regardless, when you reach the bar, most of that seems to melt away as the group gets drinks and splits off into smaller sub-sections. When it's your turn to order, just after Janice, you think for a second. "My apologies, but do you have anything non-alcoholic? I've got a busy day tomorrow." The bartender nods, and smiles. "I actually got a treat for you, then, Conductor - Fresh from University. Cooked up in the labs of one of their doctors - Not alcoholic, but it'll certainly give you a boost." You raise an eyebrow. Some new variant of coffee, perhaps? You've heard University experiments with certain plants for more effective strains - Though they tend to keep those for less recreational purposes, after some incidents with students sneaking high-grade variants of recreational narcotics out of the labs for…personal use. Or, at least, that was the reason you were told by one of University's logistical liaisons at one of your meetings.

The man grabs a clear plastic container that wouldn't be out of place in a lab, gently unscrewing the top to begin carefully pouring the dark black liquid inside into a glass filled with ice. As soon as it comes into contact with the air, the liquid begins fizzing and frothing, bubbling intensely as its poured into the glass. Your eyebrow remains raised as he closes the container back up and stores it back where it was on the shelf. However, it would be rude to hold up the line, so you gingerly take the glass and gravitate towards Janice, taking a small sniff of the liquid as you do so. It smells…faintly sweet. You shake the glass slightly, watching the dark liquid swirl around inside of it as you sit down, half-listening to the conversation. Some argument about whether or not Stadium will be able to broadcast the next game out to the Garrison's receiver, and whether or not they'll need to prepare for it. Not exactly your thing.

You take a sip and…Mars, that is sweet. It tastes like an explosion of fruit and pure sugar into your mouth, and you can't help but sputter slightly as it almost burns your tongue with how it tastes, which sparks a few chuckles from the group, who clearly have seen reactions to the drink before. Janice glances over in a brief moment of concern, but you wave her off - You just weren't prepared for how sweet this thing is. Now that you are, it's…not bad. You could see yourself enjoying this, if you had a bit of time to get used to the peculiar taste. Well, not like you've got anything better to do with your night.

You settle in with your drink, and glance over again at Janice and the group she's with. Honestly, she fits in far better then you might expect - Being ex-MCPD and all. Perhaps you're allowing your prejudice to blind you…though you doubt any of these militiafolk would be as friendly with her if they knew her background. She doesn't exactly flaunt it, but to people who know, it's obvious - The way she carries herself, the way she moves. You pause. Is this unkind, to think this behind her back? Perhaps. You might as well move on from it, then.

You turn your attention to what they're saying, instead, the conversation moving to the forefront of your mind. "Anyways - So, as I was saying, these guys, they're coming right for me-" Ah, the topic has shifted to war stories when you weren't listening. This is actually pretty interesting to you - You don't have a lot of background on Janice's combat history. Her records weren't noted down, due to the amnesty, after all. You can guess she probably knows how to use her shotgun well enough, as well as her sidearm, but…beyond that, who knows? You listen for her turn to speak…

"Well, I spent most of the war out in Melas. Was out fighting near Hephaestus." The table nods. You doubt any of them served that far South, Stadium was far more occupied with fighting in Mariner City…and it needed every person it could get for that. "So, we're trekking across the sand-" Someone asks. "No train?" She barks out a laugh. "Hah! If we were so lucky - Even the vaunted Station rails-" She jabs at her uniform. "Can't run everywhere. Anyways, so we're out there, my patrol and I, searching for a guerilla cell - They've been attacking our supply train, nighttime raids, that sort of thing." The group groans and nods. This, they can directly sympathize with. Partisan fighting and usage of such tactics was always the most intense in Mariner City.

"So, we're all sweating like pigs-" A small laugh ripples around the table, and Janice chuckles too, unperturbed. Did she just purposefully make an anti-cop joke? "-Because it's the middle of the day. So, we're trekking and trekking and trekking, and eventually, we find what we think is their encampment. We set up on a nearby hill, haul out the recon and radio gear, start securing the perimeter - And then, suddenly, out of fucking nowhere, some kid jumps out of some hole in the ground. He scares half of us to death, lucky he didn't get shot, but he starts asking us a bunch of questions, asking who we are, where we're from…because as it turns out, the place we think we're surveying as a guerilla hideout is just a regular town, because Heph built their regular towns like broken-down guerilla hideouts!" The laughter is louder, this time. Jokes poking light fun at Hephaestus are popular in Stadium, even if they are passe in Station - They didn't exactly have the same fraternal bond between their peoples as Station and Hephaestus did, and their reputation accordingly suffered much harsher in Stadium when the Secession occurred. Still, that seems to be the signal for the spotlight to focus on someone else.

…Janice was a lot less formal when she was telling that story then when you've otherwise seen her, you feel. She almost felt like she was mimicking Bill somewhat - You think back to his war story. Perhaps without the creative embellishments, mind, but certainly his…personable air and general affability. Or, perhaps, that's simply what Janice is like, when she's not in a hierarchical environment. Her and Militiawoman Batson were certainly getting along alright. Maybe, at a later moment, you'll ask her.

That moment comes a few hours later into the evening, when the bar's gotten more crowded as more militia filter in, along with one or two locals. Janice gracefully excuses herself to a smaller corner, and seems to be comfortable nursing her drink in silence. You feel bad about butting in, but your curiousity compels you. "You seem to be making friends, Janice." You can almost see the more formal gears in her brain kicking into gear. "I'm simply doing my best to be friendly, Conductor." She raises her glass slightly. "The alcohol makes it easier." She chuckles. "But, yes, that's why I excused myself - Didn't want to risk sharing or doing anything compromising while off-duty. I recall your talk about the matter." You recall it as well. A mild warning against…fraternization during an ongoing investigation. You're glad she took it to heart.

"I appreciate your commitment to your job, Janice." You say, taking another sip of your third refill. The sweet drink you're having is really starting to grow on you. She shrugs. "I simply do what I'm told, Conductor. It's what I do best." You drum your fingers on the table. "I'm curious, then…why do you and Bill tend, to, ah…" She sighs.

"No need to dance around it, Conductor. Me and him don't get along - It's hardly political, though that's certainly an aspect of it. See - Bill doesn't just not like me because I was a cop, and I don't dislike him because he's Stadium. He dislikes me because I'm still a cop. And I dislike him because he's not enough of one." She chuckles, even as you tilt your head in mild confusion. She seems to take this as a cue to elaborate.

She gestures to the crowd of militia, chatting and mingling. "Look at the crowd here - I can hardly distinguish the atmosphere here from one of MCPD's cop bars, Conductor. Same as that party, back when we first set out - We weren't all business, all the time, in the MCPD, you know. Only difference I see between me and these poor sods is that one of us was on the losing side, and some of us were on the winning side." You frown. "Well, I think there's an obvious difference in ideals."

"Sure! Sure, the MPA's all about socialism - Don't get me wrong, you Station guys sure have got a neat setup, for your Depot and such, for now, but...it's not about ideals, it's about basic behavior. I've been a cop, still am one, just like these guys are, now. They're replicating our old habits, probably even did this before they even got posted out here - Just didn't call it being a cop, called it being a 'team fanatic' or something. It's not their fault - It's...human nature. We're all the same, inside, and so patterns of behavior naturally replicate themselves. And, inevitably, that means that folks like the MCPD, or these guys, are needed...and that folks like you and me are needed, to make sure they're kept in line." She shrugs. "I don't take their hatred of cops personally, just like, if I was on the other side, I wouldn't take the MCPD's hatred of Stadium personally. They hated us because we were doing the same thing they were, just for our sake instead of theirs. Only natural." Your frown deepens. You're not sure you agree with Janice's conclusions, here.

She continues on, heedless - Her tongue loosened by the alcohol she's consumed. "At the same time, makes the whole thing a bit pointless to me. Not the job! Not the job, no, never the job. But the...politics of it, you know? Beyond an intellectual level, and talking with ideologues and such, that is. I know my stuff, I learn about the people I'm policing - Any good cop does, if they want to be a good cop. But I've got no stake in the grand struggle of...socialism against anarchism, or socialism against capitalism, or whatever ideology springs out of Candor next. I'm just here because of good ol' human nature. And because I've got a personal investment in making sure those Central fucks pay for screwing over the Commissioner." She laughs. "But, yeah. I mean…who watches the watchmen, right? We do. Always gonna be watchmen, always gonna be watchmen-watchers - Can't change it, just gotta do the best we can. That's life!"

You lean back in your chair slightly, even as Janice goes back to nursing her drink…you've certainly gained some insight into her. You're not quite sure you like what you see, though.

News and Rumours

The Laborers of the Martian League have been pushing outwards today, emboldened by the removal of Captain Hellas and the pallor that has been cast over the political establishment of the district by the arrival of Conductor Beriel and her rapid shifting of the status quo. Armed Laborers roam beyond the barricades they've set up, symbols are painted onto walls, and outreach is being conducted from neighborhoods known to be Laborer strongholds.

The Watson Council is occupied with political infighting. Marie Dollfus and her faction continue to perform the majority of governance in the District, handling bureaucracy and the general day-to-day business of records updates and other necessities. Alex Byrd and his faction have spent their time trying to organize workers under the government, but it wasn't very effective due to…Rosa Lederberg and her faction pushing their agenda of cooperatives and socialist markets. It seems as if these two essentially worked at such cross-ends that they wound up not making much impact either way.

The Stadium Garrison has been occupied with internal affairs. You were a part of this, so you don't really need to hear it again. They have selected candidates though - Goalie Maxine Dembowski is currently the prime selection, with Coach Donovan being a close second. While there are a few other assorted candidates, none of them come close to those two. It seems Bill was correct in his analysis of the political situation.

The Free Labor Association has been focusing on recruitment, according to the Stadium scuttlebutt. It seems as if they've managed to fully recover from the attack a few days ago, and are now prepared to look outwards again. Refugees just arriving to the district are often met with FLA recruiters or wind up being directed to the FLA's new building, which has started to see more activity.

The Public of the District are mostly captured by rumors surrounding what happened to Captain Hellas, as well as wild tales spreading about the Conductor who's arrived. Nobody knows what to expect, but she's said to travel with strange people in foreign clothing - Could they be Hephaestus guerillas turned traitor? Biodyne secret police? A whole team of elite Stadium players? Nobody knows! And nobody knows what Captain Hellas was arrested for, either…

A new day dawns, and with it, a choice must be made on which thread to investigate.

[] We Didn't Start the Fire!

The FLA's camp was almost burned down, and it was used as an excuse by people dressed as Watson Council Enforcers to almost throw out the entire refugee group until they were stopped by Hellas's forces. Who started the fire? Were the Enforcers legitimate? Did Hellas truly save the refugees? Find the truth.

[] The Triumvirate of Watson District

Both Alex Byrd and Rosa Lederberg are mysteries to you for the moment, and to a lesser extent, so is Marie Dollfus. Interview them and their 'factions'. Investigate their actions and work within the District. Seek out specifics on who they associate with, and who is loyal to them. See if you can dig up any skeletons in their closet.

[] Scabbed Over

You've gotten many conflicting stories on the actions of the FLA after Hellas initially recruited them to scab, which seems to be the trigger that escalated things from a labor dispute to an actual threat to the stability of the District. Investigate their actions thus far in order to sort out how responsible they actually are for escalating the situation.

[] The Scales of Justice

Announce the crimes for which Hellas was arrested. News of his arrest has already spread like wildfire, but nobody should know exactly what for yet, besides a select few. This is going to take a day because you know that the backlash and public reaction is going to be awful, and you're going to have to spend your entire day managing it. You'll hit two birds with one stone and publicize Coach Donovan's issues to the Garrison here, as well.

[] A Discrete Affair

Look, you're not going to be as rash as the Council and Garrison were, but that doesn't mean that the Laborers aren't at risk of corruption or subversion by anti-MPA elements. Spend your day investigating if they have any ties to the MUC, MEF, University, or anti-MPA forces in general.

QM's Note: Day 2 (Technically 3) of the Investigation! Good luck!

TheMaskedReader · Nov 2, 2022

Scheduled vote count started by TheMaskedReader on Oct 28, 2022 at 5:21 PM, finished with 7 posts and 6 votes.

5 people have voted
[X] We Didn't Start the Fire!
1 people have voted
[X] A Discrete Affair
- Parzival95

TheMaskedReader · Nov 9, 2022

Spaceport Strike!

Part Sixteen: Fiery Tempers

"The Garrison clearly did it!" River slams her hand on the table. "Look, Bill, I know you're-" He groans. "Oh, don't start. We've had this conversation. I'm not biased in favor of the Garrison just because I don't think that Hellas went as far as false flagging their own allies. And we would've found records if there were any orders of an attack on the FLA during our investigation yesterday!"

Galle speaks up. "Look, River, I think that it was purposeful - Those Enforcers showed up first, though. Hellas can't control the Council…and they had to be in the area. The FLA needed to be gotten out of the way for Lederberg's plans, whatever those are, right? The Council had the most to gain!" Bill shakes his head. "Nah - There's an obvious party who had the most to gain. The Laborers. They're fighting a class war - Scabs don't get mercy in those. I'm shocked we haven't seen more blood in the streets, frankly, given how armed the Laborers seem to be. A credit to the Enforcers and the Garrison, I suppose." He drums his fingers on the table, glancing around it. "Come on. You can't tell me radical anarchists prepared to fight a protracted battle against Stadium would shirk from a little bit of arson as an intimidation tactic."

Janice speaks up. "Bah - You're all missing the simplest explanation out of a belief in conspiracy. The FLA encampment was genuinely unsafe, it got set on fire, some Enforcers showed up, and then the Garrison showed up. Both sides had reasons beyond conspiracy to keep an eye on the FLA, and a fire would've drawn everyone's attention. Occam's razor - The simplest explanation makes the most sense. All of your ideas rely on people coordinating and not being caught at it. The Garrison would've had to do such a good job that we missed them during our investigation yesterday. The Council's more likely to trip each other up then successfully start a fire. And the Laborers…well, maybe the Laborers, but I still think there's a chance it's accidental, and I don't want to commit to blaming any one side until we actually investigate."

"Right." Unlike last time, there's no clear and easy starting point for this. You have three main avenues of investigation…and, unfortunately, it seems your team has chosen to deadlock themselves on which to investigate first. "Let's hear your arguments, one last time, folks."

River and Galle start talking first at the same time, before glancing at each other. Galle nods to River, letting her take the lead. "Right, Conductor - I think it's clear that whatever went down with the FLA is the fault of one of the existing powers in the district. Such a conveniently timed fire, and the immediate arrival of the Enforcers and the Garrison afterwards - It just doesn't make sense otherwise." Janice scoffs at this, which earns her a glance from you. She quiets down in short order. "The question is who. Now, myself and Galle disagree on that particular level-" Galle nods, in full agreement with her on their disagreement. "But we do both agree that the fire needs to be investigated first. Someone set it, that will have left evidence, and we'll be able to find them. It's a simple matter."

Janice speaks up. "Bullshit. There's no evidence the fire is purposeful - Just of coincidental timing and a fast response-" Bill interrupts. "Even if the fire was accidental, the Enforcers still showed up and were forced to back down by the Garrison!" Janice claps her hands. "Exactly! We'll be able to find out far more by talking to the Enforcers. Remember what I said about ex-MCPD deserters, Conductor? If we hit the Enforcers first, we'll be able to rule out the Council as arsonists and get some additional dirt on them at the same time. If they did do it? Then they did it, and we can get them out of our hair. A win-win."

Bill grimaces. "Look - We have to look at the most reasonable conclusion first. The Laborers have the most motive, they have the means, they have the opportunity. We check with them, check their people, see if they've got anything to say about it. The sooner we get that done, the less time they'll have to close ranks. For all that we've been fairly buddy-buddy with them, I bet that goodwill will dry up quick when they figure out we're investigating them for arson."

You suppose a choice must be made…

[] You'll investigate the fire.

[] You'll investigate the Enforcers.

[] You'll investigate the Laborers.

QM's Note: Vote's open, and will close in 48 hours!

TheMaskedReader · Nov 10, 2022

In the Martian Popular Authority, while broadcast entertainment beyond the radio has largely remained the domain of the MBC, one of the primary alternative forms of communal entertainment that people have turned to is the theater. Taking its place among the ranks of writing and broadcasting as respected artistic professions, communities often hold plays as ways not just to satisfy the artistic impulses of their more creative members, but to bring people together. Children learn plays in school, performing them and learning the skills that go into making a successful play come together.

Though many of what could be considered classical plays were not preserved through the collapse, enough was retained by survivors that plays one from pre-Collapse might recognize have survived. The works of Shakespeare, Miller, and Wilder have been retained, if with decades upon decades of interpretation and mild revision to fit the circumstances of their performers. One of the more popular interpretations of Romeo and Juliet in the post-war era sees them as star-crossed lovers from Hephaestus and Station, driven apart by the Secession. Another sees Our Town played through the lens of the interwar period in Mariner City, seeing the 'town' and its people in question as a District, growing through the events of the pre-war era, and eventually dying and withering away from the War.

The themes and messages of these works have brought comfort to the people of Mars. Sometimes through laughter, sometimes through cathartic grief. And they have inspired a generation who grew up on them, through some of the toughest times a human being can experience, to write their own plays and inspirational works. Some are simply for the sake of joy and teaching - Fables and tales that are traveled around for children to enjoy and learn from, while adults look on with knowing pride and whispers of acknowledgement. Others are more personal, artistic works - Shown in small playhouses, perhaps repurposed community halls or public spaces. They try and convey emotion and meaning through the dramatic - Characters monologue and grieve and love. Some of them even succeed. And, of course, there are performances larger in scope. The thriving New Ys acting community puts on quite a few shows every year with spectacular sweeping stories of action, adventure, and comedy. Musicals have their entire runs reserved before the first night of their seats being opened for reservation is concluded. Hundreds work together, both behind the scenes and on the stage, to create something beautiful.

Abroad, these practices flourish as well. Stadium hosts performances to accompany games, grandiose coordinated displays of music and pyrotechnics, though light on story. Hephaestus had traveling groups of actors who would go from commune to commune, picking up both players and plays from the locals and giving them their own, before moving on. Shanxi's soldiers often engage in dramatic faux-duels and staged reenactments of battles, artistic spectacle and story on a grand scale, enhanced by the machinery made available to them through their militarism. University holds open mic poetry nights right next to grand operas, using them as a draw for prospective students. MBC preserves the art of radio plays and television drama, keeping one of the largest remaining libraries of recordings both audio and visual left on Mars, used often for reruns and effects. Biodyne sponsors choirs and religious plays across their territory, in addition to the more traditional community fare. Even ODIN does not prohibit their workers from gathering in off hours to put on small performances, though they are monitored for any anti-corporate sentiment. Though the people of Mars are diverse and multi-faceted, there is a universal appreciation of art, and the community which goes into producing it.

And of course, none of this would be possible without the tradition of teaching - Of sharing the love of the dramatic and theater with the young. Parents teach their children, taking them to plays and community events, showing their dazzled young eyes sights and sounds that whisk them away to another world. Teachers teach their students, born from those young eyes, both the skills necessary to physically perform, and the skills needed to understand what it means to perform. And, of course, actors, graduated from pupil to professional, teach each other constantly, always learning and advancing the art.

"Theater is the art form of the present: it exists only in the present, and then it's gone."
In Memoriam to a Teacher, Friend, and Actress.
Without you, I would not be the person or writer I am today.

The City At The Center of Mars (Red Planet Rising)

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The City At The Center of Mars (Red Planet Rising)

Spaceport Strike! ​

Part Twelve: Pulling On Loose Threads​

Spaceport Strike! ​

Part Thirteen: Cleaning Up Cysat​

An Excerpt From The MPA Citizen's Guide to Traveling Mariner City in Safety and Comfort (First Edition) - Chapter Eleven: Watson District​

Prelude to the MPA Citizen's Guide to Traveling Mariner City in Safety and Comfort​

Chapter One: Your Arrival in Mariner City​

Chapter Eleven: Watson District​

What is the History of Watson District?​

Where Should I Go In Watson District?​

Where Can I Get What I Need in Watson District?​

Where Do I Go From Here?​

Spaceport Strike! ​

Part Fourteen: Hellas's Holding Cell​

Spaceport Strike! ​

Part Fifteen: Sugar and Spice​

Spaceport Strike! ​

Part Sixteen: Fiery Tempers​

Spaceport Strike!

Part Twelve: Pulling On Loose Threads

Spaceport Strike!

Part Thirteen: Cleaning Up Cysat

An Excerpt From The MPA Citizen's Guide to Traveling Mariner City in Safety and Comfort (First Edition) - Chapter Eleven: Watson District

Prelude to the MPA Citizen's Guide to Traveling Mariner City in Safety and Comfort

Chapter One: Your Arrival in Mariner City

Chapter Eleven: Watson District

What is the History of Watson District?

Where Should I Go In Watson District?

Where Can I Get What I Need in Watson District?

Where Do I Go From Here?

Spaceport Strike!

Part Fourteen: Hellas's Holding Cell

Spaceport Strike!

Part Fifteen: Sugar and Spice

Spaceport Strike!

Part Sixteen: Fiery Tempers