Week 15 - Joy of Execution
"I'll stay," you say. "If that's what it takes to convince you of my sincerity, I'll make the Director wait."
Lorine, Bahij, and Blaine all smile.
"I'll bet that the Director doesn't even care."
"We don't get together enough as it is, you get what I'm saying?"
"The Director will definitely be pissed, but I do appreciate that you're thinking about the crew. Your dedication means a lot to us."
As the game begins, Lorine chats about this player and that statistic like an encyclopedia. His commentary drowns out the audio, although you and the other two let him talk.
"He's out!" says Lorine. "That fly ball was an easy catch."
"What's going on?" asks Katherine. "Ji-Min, what're you doing here?"
"Hey Katherine."
"Baseball? Didn't you get the Director's message?"
"I did, yes." You jerk a thumb to the monitor. "But this is more important."
"Yeah, no, please do me a favor and say your teammate needed help or something;" Katherine then looks to Blaine. "Hey, you mind going with that story in case he asks?"
"Sure."
Lorine looks between you, Blaine, and Katherine. "Wait, really?"
Blaine and Katherine nod.
"Dead serious. I don't want Ji-Min to get a bigger verbal lashing than necessary."
"Even a Rat won't envy Ji-Min anytime soon."
That elicits a gulp from Lorine. "Ji-Min, I'm... crap, I'm sorry..."
"I'll be fine. This is the decision that I made, so if the Director gets mad, he gets mad."
"Let's go, Ji-Min." Katherine waves goodbye to the crew. "Don't wait for us, okay?"
You and Katherine walk to the administrative suite and to the Director's office.
"Late." The Director taps the desk in rhythm with the tick-tock of the grandfather clock. "Ji-Min. We agreed to meet immediately fifteen minutes ago. Explain."
"I needed to take care of something with the crew."
"Crew?" He glances at Katherine, who nods. "How many times do I have to repeat it? Asset work is more important. You've worked months. You had many reminders."
"I understand, Director. Sorry for making you wait; I'll be more considerate of your time in the future."
"I suppose you'll prioritize asset work a bit more after this meeting, whether you want to or not. Report."
You and Katherine explain what happened in District 11. "I heard Aurél's speech against the evildoers earlier. K Corp.'s healing Singularity is something else, especially since I cut her in half."
"Investigation. K Corp. deployed Seven Association to identify who sent the terrorists. PR has contacts in Seven, and so we learned that Azure Squad is the prime suspect."
"How... how much do they know?"
"The good news is that they don't know your actual identity and affiliation. This is akin to our earlier investigation of the Misery Terrorists."
"About what?" asks Katherine. The Director explains that prior to the Misery Terrorist battle, W Corp. spent weeks identifying the mastermind.
"With Seven's information, K Corp. should know that the Terrorists are connected to L Corp. However, they still need to determine if L Corp. really wanted to kick and delay the pollution talks out of spite, or if another Wing like us is hoping that K blames L. I predict that L Corp. will contribute to the investigation."
"And us?" you ask. "Are we derailing them?"
The Director nods. "Our lives depend on it. If Seven solves the case, expect W Corp. to throw us all under the train and deny involvement. Dias has the best deniability since her personal involvement is minimal and her claim to associating with us is to show support against the Terrorists. The rest of us will look like we tried to take advantage of the situation behind W Corp.'s back for personal benefits."
"Does that mean you're helping us?"
"As little as possible. I suppose I authorized the mission; Seven's Director overseeing this case is partial to bribes, and with his help, we can plant evidence to make Seven close the case in our favor. Less work for you, but it's going to cost me. I'd rather not clean up after you."
"What do you have in mind?"
"If Seven wants to solve the case, they'll need L Corp.'s help. Possibly the Terrorists themselves, since they can identify you from that battle. However, by silencing the Terrorists, Seven can't break the coverup."
"But where will we find the Terrorists? I thought we're out of spies."
"PR will reach out to their contacts in Seven to learn of any meetings with the Terrorists. You'll crash the meeting."
Katherine looks at you. "I owe the Great Idiot a beating, but I don't know about fighting two groups at once."
"A couple other thing. If you want bribes and planted evidence, you'll need to be the ones who deliver the cash. If you want to confront the Terrorists, I don't mind letting you both rest. And although it'll be a hassle, I'll even lend you support if you think it's necessary. Think carefully."
On your day off, you visit your mother again. You look at your mother's outfit today - a tube top, leather jacket, and denim shorts, all black.
"Ji-Min!" She hugs you with a grin.
You grin too. "Punk black is definitely not your personality."
"Ask me about it!"
"Okay!" After you hang up your suit jacket, both of you sit together on the couch by the wall window. "Why the black?"
"You know how the heroes rise against an oppressive Wing in Hyperpunk? Fighting impossible odds to make their District a better place against all the military clones?"
You swing your fist through the air. "Overthrowing Arisaka Corporation?"
"That was a great show, even if it was bittersweet." Her grin cools until her expression is dark like her clothes. "I still haven't been able to get in touch with your father."
"He's still busy?" You lower your fist. "Did Lantern Office give you any updates?"
"Nothing, and I think I'm starting to detect annoyance in their voices." You mother touches the back of her head. Silence settles until she looks at you, takes a deep breath, then speaks again. "You didn't hear it from me, but I'm thinking of asking what's really going on. And because I want us to both know the truth, I'm thinking about removing my J-Lock."
"Removing... your J-Lock?" Does caring about your mother mean persuading her to stop? But this is W Corp.'s golden opportunity. "Will you be okay? It's a big step."
"Your father and I know someone; he's had his removed since forever. And I'm at my limit. But I'm scared. Defying L Corp. might get me fired, and I'm afraid of what I'll find out. I'm channeling my inner Bucky to give me strength, but I just don't know." Your mother drops her head into her hands.
You hug her again. "Shouldn't you follow your heart?"
"I want to, because my family means everything to me, even more than L Corp. Do you think it's shameful that I'm hesitating? Like I'm just another hypocrite?"
"Most people in your position would be nervous. But I promise that I'll always come over if you need me."
"Unless your boss says otherwise."
You both chuckle.
"And even though you said that, and even though I so badly want to find the truth, part of me still screams to stop. That maybe everything will work out in the end, and that if I wait a bit longer, everything will go back to normal."
"I..." You sigh. Averting the tragic quest is not an option. "I want to see my father again. And if we can't, then both of us need the closure."
"Ji-Min..."
"I don't want to pressure you, but... I want to share my heartfelt wish as your daughter. I won't hold it against you if you don't want to do it."
"If it's what you want... and it's what I want... I can do it. I'll get my J-Lock removed and tell you what I find."
"Thank you." You hug your mother as she strokes your hair. This might be the last time you can sit close and sharing the deepest parts of yourselves. "No matter what, I love you."
"I love you too, Ji-Min."
Before the Schedule I train is due to arrive, you gather Lorine and Bahij together in the lobby. "Do you guys mind fighting with me today? Girish and Irmtraud are busy being moody and the Captain is making a bunch of personal calls. I'm sure they'll step up, but I'd feel better if I have some allies up front with me to start."
Lorine nodded as he flicked his wrist. "If it lets me compensate for getting you in trouble, I'm happy to do anything."
"Yeah man, we'll stick together, and that's the truth."
"Thanks."
The crew enters the cab for their Schedule I.
Teresa smirks at Blaine. "No Rabbit Protocol to save you this time. Or would you like to contribute your salary to W Corp.'s budget?"
"Shut your mouth." Blaine finishes scrolling through the midair light panel and looks at his cablelike fingers plugged into the dashboard. "Why don't you come and greet these passengers with us? The Church of Wholeness would surely love to have you for company."
"My work is far more important than playing receptionist."
"Suit yourself. Open it up."
It's been said that everyone in the City either lives an innocent short life or lives long enough to become a cynic. For the particularly unlucky, like those in the Backstreets, it's a cynical short life.
Not every cynical short life happens to a Rat, of course.
Yes, it can even happen to a Feather like you.
...But not this time.
You regain consciousness, or rather, actual thought, mid-walk with the crew in the middle of the hallway to the lounge and stop. "Wait, what just happened?"
The crew - Blaine, Girish, Lorine, and Irmtraud - stop and turn to you with their own confusion.
"Wait, what?" asks Blaine. Her voice falls to a mutter. "We just (...) Director, and you (...)? Whatever. Let's get to (...)."
"Huh?" You hear Blaine's mouth making sounds at a cadence for language, but those sounds aren't registering as words. "I don't understand. We were just in the train with the knights, and... and..."
Lorine says some words you don't understand with a nervous tone and worried look on his face.
Blaine slaps her head. "(...) walk together." She and Lorine help your shoulder over theirs, and the crew changes direction to Medical. "If (...), Director (...)."
Your thinking shuts off again until you find yourself laying on a bed during the evening in a sky-themed blue room. Hanging on the wall in front of you is a picture of a brain scan. Teresa and a doctor you don't recognize are discussing something ("(...)?" "(...).") next to a desk under it.
Teresa sees you up and makes that nasty grin of his. "(...). Time for a memory check. (...) brain surgery with yours truly (...)?"
"Wait, whoa, hold up!" As you sit up, he hands you a paper with your signature onto the desk next to your bed. You read the paper, but the words might as well be in a different language. "What's going on? I didn't sign this!"
"(...) asset, so (...); (...) cussing me out."
The doctor shoos Teresa out of the room. She sits next to you and speaks in a calm voice with a smile on her face. "Hello Ji-Min, I'm Dr. Bhararth." Dr. Bharath confirms that you're suffering a variety of symptoms from brain damage, which is therefore something that not even K Corp.'s healing Singularity can repair. She repeats as often as needed at your request. "You obviously can't (perform work in your state), so we need (to get you fixed pronto)."
"Thanks. This is definitely the last time that you'll need to explain everything."
Dr. Bharath chuckles. "That's what you (said before). Anyway, I (need to leave), but (the Branch Manager) plans to visit shortly. Good night, Ji-Min. If you need anything else, press the button." She points to a button next to you. After confirming that you understand, Dr. Bharath waves goodbye.
You take a moment to check through the messages on your wPhone, which includes well-wishes from Blaine and Lorine.
The Branch Manager walks in a few minutes later. "Ms. Ji-Min, (...). Congratulations on (...), by the way, even if the PAR (...)."
Here he is. You focus your mind, or at least focus the best you can do in your given state. "Uh, good evening, Branch Manager. Thank you for sparing time from your busy schedule to visit me."
"I heard (...). Is that true?"
Why did he have to pick such an awkward time for a conversation? You sigh. "Branch Manager, if I struggle to understand what you're saying and need you to repeat it until my comprehension kicks in, please bear with me."
"Very well. I heard that (you declined consent)."
"You mean the brain surgery?"
"As an asset, you consented (for W Corp. to do anything to you). I technically have the right to (force your brain surgery). However, there is still (a system in place for assets to register any grievances or abuse and hold me accountable). When I'm considered for promotion, I expect HQ (to examine whether my leadership caused undue burden on this branch). I don't want to take chances."
"You want me to make it easy on you."
"And although Engineering makes it look scary, I (don't intend for this to be the punitive behavior adjustment surgery). I value your work on (your mother mission)."
Your thinking blacks out, then returns to the Branch Manager with his mouth open.
"Ms. Ji-Min... I am so sorry."
"What... what did I just say?"
"To summarize more gently: you resent W Corp. for making you run a cruel mission against your mother."
Your face burns. There's no way you can convincingly play off any resentment as a joke or walk back your comments. You rack your brain for the best line to salvage the situation. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to speak my thoughts out loud like that; I always worked to put the company first."
"(The company values) your sacrifices." The Branch Manager falls into contemplation while you clench your hands together. "Back to asset consent. I still want your signature, but (we don't need Teresa if you don't want him). I can (arrange a non-W. Corp. surgeon to operate on you, even on short notice). That'll be a huge hassle, however, and (I rather that you just trust me to keep Teresa in check)."
"My opinion matters that much to you?"
The Branch Manager nods. "I'll even sweeten the deal. Let Teresa repair your brain, and (I'll give you something nice)."
"I appreciate your consideration, but are you sure?"
"I insist. You (confessed your innermost feelings, even if unintentionally), and you almost died today. This is (my way of acknowledging what you've done for me and W Corp.)."
"Thank you." Your turn to fall into contemplation. Trust the Branch Manager and get a bonus, or go out-of-network?
INSTRUCTIONS. Submit a plan. See bottom of post for preplans.
-[] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery. Where should you repair your brain?
--[] W Corp. Trust Branch Manager to manage Teresa. Gain a bonus from the Branch Manager.
--[] Out-of-Network. Just to be safe. Nothing else happens.
-[] Day Off. Distribute AP up to one of the following and set the battle conditions for Week 17. The battle will be unavoidable.
--[] Rest. You nearly died! Week 16 (Day Off) Each AP restores 20HP. Week 17 (Day Off) Misery Terrorists roll d6+3 for X / Assistants make major effort rolls / If AP<X, you take -50HP and decrease Rapport -16 with Director. Rest for how many AP:
--[] Bribes. The Director needs to help get Seven Association off your back. Week 16 (Day Off) Decrease Rapport -6 with Director. Week 17 (Day Off) Assistants make major effort rolls / If AP<3, decrease Rapport -16 with Director. Costs 1AP to select.
Note: You'll be able to hire Kwame and Imamu from Sapphire Squad as assistants. For each assistant hired, decrease Rapport -2 with Director. Kwame is Elite (add +1 to Effort Rolls).
-[] Workweek. Contribute W with the crew to suppress disorderly passengers.
--[] Make requests:
--[] Contribute W to the quota:
Note #1: Rabbit Protocol is on cooldown for the current and next week.
Note #2: You may prefix one request with "(Authority)" this week (force one agent to follow that request, regardless of Rapport or Favor).
Note #3: You may request any agent not in meltdown to overcharge (clear the quota). After the Meltdown calculation step, the agent's HP is set to 0HP), and if the agent is from Udjat, decrease Rapport -4 with Director.
Passenger Advisory Report:
Week 16 (Work) / If W<17, all agents take -50HP and decrease Rapport -8 with Director; otherwise, increase Rapport +1 with Director / Conduct Emergency check
No action is currently asked of the following, but is published as a notice:
Passenger Advisory Report's roll (Week 17): (1)
Week 17 (Work) / Schedule I / If W<17, all agents take -50HP and decrease Rapport -8 with Director; otherwise, increase Rapport +1 with Director / Conduct Emergency check
-[] Meltdown. Keep an eye on other agents to reduce their damage.
--[] Irmtraud. Increase Favors between +1 to +3 (more Favors with fewer protectors and failed meltdown check) with Irmtraud. Costs 2AP.
-[] Relationships. Spend time with another agent. Increase Rapport +1. If the agent has a strike, apply Calm (does not gain M for strikes and agent deaths); otherwise, increase Morale +1 (modify the Effort Roll based on the count).
--[] Girish
--[] Lorine
--[] Blaine
--[] Chelsey
--[] Rama. Additionally, decrease Rapport -1 for all other agents.
--[] Irmtraud. Additionally, decrease Rapport -1 with Rama.
--[] Nobody. Regain 10HP.
PREPLANS. See spoilers for specific details. You may submit a custom plan.
[] Plan: W Corp. + Rest
[] Plan: W Corp. + Bribes
[] Plan: Out-of-Network + Bribes
They mock you for living behind the times.
They call you stupid for believing that augments and prosthetics pollute the body and soul.
But only you wield the conviction to maintain your humanity.
Together at the Church of Wholeness, let's work to expose the truth and save everyone.
Make the City Great Again!
Lorine, Bahij, and Blaine all smile.
"I'll bet that the Director doesn't even care."
"We don't get together enough as it is, you get what I'm saying?"
"The Director will definitely be pissed, but I do appreciate that you're thinking about the crew. Your dedication means a lot to us."
As the game begins, Lorine chats about this player and that statistic like an encyclopedia. His commentary drowns out the audio, although you and the other two let him talk.
"He's out!" says Lorine. "That fly ball was an easy catch."
"What's going on?" asks Katherine. "Ji-Min, what're you doing here?"
"Hey Katherine."
"Baseball? Didn't you get the Director's message?"
"I did, yes." You jerk a thumb to the monitor. "But this is more important."
"Yeah, no, please do me a favor and say your teammate needed help or something;" Katherine then looks to Blaine. "Hey, you mind going with that story in case he asks?"
"Sure."
Lorine looks between you, Blaine, and Katherine. "Wait, really?"
Blaine and Katherine nod.
"Dead serious. I don't want Ji-Min to get a bigger verbal lashing than necessary."
"Even a Rat won't envy Ji-Min anytime soon."
That elicits a gulp from Lorine. "Ji-Min, I'm... crap, I'm sorry..."
"I'll be fine. This is the decision that I made, so if the Director gets mad, he gets mad."
"Let's go, Ji-Min." Katherine waves goodbye to the crew. "Don't wait for us, okay?"
You and Katherine walk to the administrative suite and to the Director's office.
"Late." The Director taps the desk in rhythm with the tick-tock of the grandfather clock. "Ji-Min. We agreed to meet immediately fifteen minutes ago. Explain."
"I needed to take care of something with the crew."
"Crew?" He glances at Katherine, who nods. "How many times do I have to repeat it? Asset work is more important. You've worked months. You had many reminders."
"I understand, Director. Sorry for making you wait; I'll be more considerate of your time in the future."
"I suppose you'll prioritize asset work a bit more after this meeting, whether you want to or not. Report."
You and Katherine explain what happened in District 11. "I heard Aurél's speech against the evildoers earlier. K Corp.'s healing Singularity is something else, especially since I cut her in half."
"Investigation. K Corp. deployed Seven Association to identify who sent the terrorists. PR has contacts in Seven, and so we learned that Azure Squad is the prime suspect."
"How... how much do they know?"
"The good news is that they don't know your actual identity and affiliation. This is akin to our earlier investigation of the Misery Terrorists."
"About what?" asks Katherine. The Director explains that prior to the Misery Terrorist battle, W Corp. spent weeks identifying the mastermind.
"With Seven's information, K Corp. should know that the Terrorists are connected to L Corp. However, they still need to determine if L Corp. really wanted to kick and delay the pollution talks out of spite, or if another Wing like us is hoping that K blames L. I predict that L Corp. will contribute to the investigation."
"And us?" you ask. "Are we derailing them?"
The Director nods. "Our lives depend on it. If Seven solves the case, expect W Corp. to throw us all under the train and deny involvement. Dias has the best deniability since her personal involvement is minimal and her claim to associating with us is to show support against the Terrorists. The rest of us will look like we tried to take advantage of the situation behind W Corp.'s back for personal benefits."
"Does that mean you're helping us?"
"As little as possible. I suppose I authorized the mission; Seven's Director overseeing this case is partial to bribes, and with his help, we can plant evidence to make Seven close the case in our favor. Less work for you, but it's going to cost me. I'd rather not clean up after you."
"What do you have in mind?"
"If Seven wants to solve the case, they'll need L Corp.'s help. Possibly the Terrorists themselves, since they can identify you from that battle. However, by silencing the Terrorists, Seven can't break the coverup."
"But where will we find the Terrorists? I thought we're out of spies."
"PR will reach out to their contacts in Seven to learn of any meetings with the Terrorists. You'll crash the meeting."
Katherine looks at you. "I owe the Great Idiot a beating, but I don't know about fighting two groups at once."
"A couple other thing. If you want bribes and planted evidence, you'll need to be the ones who deliver the cash. If you want to confront the Terrorists, I don't mind letting you both rest. And although it'll be a hassle, I'll even lend you support if you think it's necessary. Think carefully."
On your day off, you visit your mother again. You look at your mother's outfit today - a tube top, leather jacket, and denim shorts, all black.
"Ji-Min!" She hugs you with a grin.
You grin too. "Punk black is definitely not your personality."
"Ask me about it!"
"Okay!" After you hang up your suit jacket, both of you sit together on the couch by the wall window. "Why the black?"
"You know how the heroes rise against an oppressive Wing in Hyperpunk? Fighting impossible odds to make their District a better place against all the military clones?"
You swing your fist through the air. "Overthrowing Arisaka Corporation?"
"That was a great show, even if it was bittersweet." Her grin cools until her expression is dark like her clothes. "I still haven't been able to get in touch with your father."
"He's still busy?" You lower your fist. "Did Lantern Office give you any updates?"
"Nothing, and I think I'm starting to detect annoyance in their voices." You mother touches the back of her head. Silence settles until she looks at you, takes a deep breath, then speaks again. "You didn't hear it from me, but I'm thinking of asking what's really going on. And because I want us to both know the truth, I'm thinking about removing my J-Lock."
"Removing... your J-Lock?" Does caring about your mother mean persuading her to stop? But this is W Corp.'s golden opportunity. "Will you be okay? It's a big step."
"Your father and I know someone; he's had his removed since forever. And I'm at my limit. But I'm scared. Defying L Corp. might get me fired, and I'm afraid of what I'll find out. I'm channeling my inner Bucky to give me strength, but I just don't know." Your mother drops her head into her hands.
You hug her again. "Shouldn't you follow your heart?"
"I want to, because my family means everything to me, even more than L Corp. Do you think it's shameful that I'm hesitating? Like I'm just another hypocrite?"
"Most people in your position would be nervous. But I promise that I'll always come over if you need me."
"Unless your boss says otherwise."
You both chuckle.
"And even though you said that, and even though I so badly want to find the truth, part of me still screams to stop. That maybe everything will work out in the end, and that if I wait a bit longer, everything will go back to normal."
"I..." You sigh. Averting the tragic quest is not an option. "I want to see my father again. And if we can't, then both of us need the closure."
"Ji-Min..."
"I don't want to pressure you, but... I want to share my heartfelt wish as your daughter. I won't hold it against you if you don't want to do it."
"If it's what you want... and it's what I want... I can do it. I'll get my J-Lock removed and tell you what I find."
"Thank you." You hug your mother as she strokes your hair. This might be the last time you can sit close and sharing the deepest parts of yourselves. "No matter what, I love you."
"I love you too, Ji-Min."
Before the Schedule I train is due to arrive, you gather Lorine and Bahij together in the lobby. "Do you guys mind fighting with me today? Girish and Irmtraud are busy being moody and the Captain is making a bunch of personal calls. I'm sure they'll step up, but I'd feel better if I have some allies up front with me to start."
Lorine nodded as he flicked his wrist. "If it lets me compensate for getting you in trouble, I'm happy to do anything."
"Yeah man, we'll stick together, and that's the truth."
"Thanks."
The crew enters the cab for their Schedule I.
Teresa smirks at Blaine. "No Rabbit Protocol to save you this time. Or would you like to contribute your salary to W Corp.'s budget?"
"Shut your mouth." Blaine finishes scrolling through the midair light panel and looks at his cablelike fingers plugged into the dashboard. "Why don't you come and greet these passengers with us? The Church of Wholeness would surely love to have you for company."
"My work is far more important than playing receptionist."
"Suit yourself. Open it up."
In the first car, the crew finds some passengers nailed through their heads and stomachs. Whether from brain damage or boredom, they stare forward with their mouths open.
You, Lorine, and Bahij take the lead and take the time to check for anyone hiding.
"Damn," says Bahij. "This is fucked up, know what I'm saying?"
Lorine shakes a nail. "They're sturdily nailed to the seats. These passengers won't be attacking us from the rear."
"Who'd do this?" Irmtraud asks while she and Girish do their own inspection of the passengers.
"Bunch of fanatics," says Blaine. "The Church of Wholeness believes that prosthetics and augmentations corrupt the mind. It's pretty much like Hyperpunk, where too many augments actually drive a person insane."
The crew continues through a few more cars with more of the same. In one car, the crew encounters a passenger suited up in actual silvery armor wielding a nail and hammer.
"Halt," says the knight. "Identify yourselves."
"We're the rescue team," says Blaine. "Thanks to your efforts, the train finally became clean enough for us to set foot."
The knight pauses. "In the words of the Father, 'You will know them by their fruit.' If you speak the truth, I will put you all to the nail so that I can determine your worthiness."
"Fuck your shit." Bahij leaps forward and stabs the knight with his trident as a blue electrical arc flows between the prongs. The trident bounces off the armor, but the knight screams as blue electricity electrocutes him.
"Amen," you say.
Bahij grins. "I think it's time for a crusade."
Clanking armor alerts the crew to more knights. A pair enter the car, only for Lorine to bashtrocute one with his bat while you leap and slash off the arms of another.
The crew advances and encounters more knights, including one with a black cape.
"Purge them!" shouts black cape.
More knights rush forward as usual. Bahij stabs, Lorine bashtocutes, and you slash. However, black cape ducks under your rip space, and with Bahij and Lorine occupied, rushes for Blaine, Irmtraud, and Girish in the back.
Blaine raises her hatchet, but black cape grabs her arm and swings her into Irmtraud and Girish. Irmtraud drops her weapon and catches Blaine. They fall onto their backs on a seat, and black cape drives a single nail through Blaine, Irmtraud, and the seat. The ladies gasp and twitch as your heart beats faster.
Girish stabs black cape with his sai, but it's uncharged and bounces off the armor. Black cape grunts, grabs Girish, and throws him at Bahij's back.
The impact destabilizes Bahij's footing. Girish falls on top and gets up; that unpins Bahij, but loses precious time. The knights trample over Bahij and kick his head as he grunts and screams.
"Help!" he shouts.
Both you and Lorine back against the train walls as more knights surround you. Neither of you have any chance to rush and save him without becoming a nail depository. The other ladies are already one. Only one agent can "safely" take any risks.
"Girish!"
However, Girish focuses on defending himself from the other knights.
Bahij screams as black cape walks up to him. You can't see through the seats and knights, and a nail pierces the scream short.
You dodge one nail stab while other knights climb onto the seats next to you. Adrenaline surges through your body as you leap-tackle the knight in front of you, which knocks another knight down.
The commotion also draws the black cape's attention.
When you look up, a nail soars straight for your forehead. You register a moment of pain there until your senses dull and everything goes black.
You, Lorine, and Bahij take the lead and take the time to check for anyone hiding.
"Damn," says Bahij. "This is fucked up, know what I'm saying?"
Lorine shakes a nail. "They're sturdily nailed to the seats. These passengers won't be attacking us from the rear."
"Who'd do this?" Irmtraud asks while she and Girish do their own inspection of the passengers.
"Bunch of fanatics," says Blaine. "The Church of Wholeness believes that prosthetics and augmentations corrupt the mind. It's pretty much like Hyperpunk, where too many augments actually drive a person insane."
The crew continues through a few more cars with more of the same. In one car, the crew encounters a passenger suited up in actual silvery armor wielding a nail and hammer.
"Halt," says the knight. "Identify yourselves."
"We're the rescue team," says Blaine. "Thanks to your efforts, the train finally became clean enough for us to set foot."
The knight pauses. "In the words of the Father, 'You will know them by their fruit.' If you speak the truth, I will put you all to the nail so that I can determine your worthiness."
"Fuck your shit." Bahij leaps forward and stabs the knight with his trident as a blue electrical arc flows between the prongs. The trident bounces off the armor, but the knight screams as blue electricity electrocutes him.
"Amen," you say.
Bahij grins. "I think it's time for a crusade."
Clanking armor alerts the crew to more knights. A pair enter the car, only for Lorine to bashtrocute one with his bat while you leap and slash off the arms of another.
The crew advances and encounters more knights, including one with a black cape.
"Purge them!" shouts black cape.
More knights rush forward as usual. Bahij stabs, Lorine bashtocutes, and you slash. However, black cape ducks under your rip space, and with Bahij and Lorine occupied, rushes for Blaine, Irmtraud, and Girish in the back.
Blaine raises her hatchet, but black cape grabs her arm and swings her into Irmtraud and Girish. Irmtraud drops her weapon and catches Blaine. They fall onto their backs on a seat, and black cape drives a single nail through Blaine, Irmtraud, and the seat. The ladies gasp and twitch as your heart beats faster.
Girish stabs black cape with his sai, but it's uncharged and bounces off the armor. Black cape grunts, grabs Girish, and throws him at Bahij's back.
The impact destabilizes Bahij's footing. Girish falls on top and gets up; that unpins Bahij, but loses precious time. The knights trample over Bahij and kick his head as he grunts and screams.
"Help!" he shouts.
Both you and Lorine back against the train walls as more knights surround you. Neither of you have any chance to rush and save him without becoming a nail depository. The other ladies are already one. Only one agent can "safely" take any risks.
"Girish!"
However, Girish focuses on defending himself from the other knights.
Bahij screams as black cape walks up to him. You can't see through the seats and knights, and a nail pierces the scream short.
You dodge one nail stab while other knights climb onto the seats next to you. Adrenaline surges through your body as you leap-tackle the knight in front of you, which knocks another knight down.
The commotion also draws the black cape's attention.
When you look up, a nail soars straight for your forehead. You register a moment of pain there until your senses dull and everything goes black.
It's been said that everyone in the City either lives an innocent short life or lives long enough to become a cynic. For the particularly unlucky, like those in the Backstreets, it's a cynical short life.
Not every cynical short life happens to a Rat, of course.
Yes, it can even happen to a Feather like you.
...But not this time.
You regain consciousness, or rather, actual thought, mid-walk with the crew in the middle of the hallway to the lounge and stop. "Wait, what just happened?"
The crew - Blaine, Girish, Lorine, and Irmtraud - stop and turn to you with their own confusion.
"Wait, what?" asks Blaine. Her voice falls to a mutter. "We just (...) Director, and you (...)? Whatever. Let's get to (...)."
"Huh?" You hear Blaine's mouth making sounds at a cadence for language, but those sounds aren't registering as words. "I don't understand. We were just in the train with the knights, and... and..."
Lorine says some words you don't understand with a nervous tone and worried look on his face.
Blaine slaps her head. "(...) walk together." She and Lorine help your shoulder over theirs, and the crew changes direction to Medical. "If (...), Director (...)."
Your thinking shuts off again until you find yourself laying on a bed during the evening in a sky-themed blue room. Hanging on the wall in front of you is a picture of a brain scan. Teresa and a doctor you don't recognize are discussing something ("(...)?" "(...).") next to a desk under it.
Teresa sees you up and makes that nasty grin of his. "(...). Time for a memory check. (...) brain surgery with yours truly (...)?"
"Wait, whoa, hold up!" As you sit up, he hands you a paper with your signature onto the desk next to your bed. You read the paper, but the words might as well be in a different language. "What's going on? I didn't sign this!"
"(...) asset, so (...); (...) cussing me out."
The doctor shoos Teresa out of the room. She sits next to you and speaks in a calm voice with a smile on her face. "Hello Ji-Min, I'm Dr. Bhararth." Dr. Bharath confirms that you're suffering a variety of symptoms from brain damage, which is therefore something that not even K Corp.'s healing Singularity can repair. She repeats as often as needed at your request. "You obviously can't (perform work in your state), so we need (to get you fixed pronto)."
"Thanks. This is definitely the last time that you'll need to explain everything."
Dr. Bharath chuckles. "That's what you (said before). Anyway, I (need to leave), but (the Branch Manager) plans to visit shortly. Good night, Ji-Min. If you need anything else, press the button." She points to a button next to you. After confirming that you understand, Dr. Bharath waves goodbye.
You take a moment to check through the messages on your wPhone, which includes well-wishes from Blaine and Lorine.
The Branch Manager walks in a few minutes later. "Ms. Ji-Min, (...). Congratulations on (...), by the way, even if the PAR (...)."
Here he is. You focus your mind, or at least focus the best you can do in your given state. "Uh, good evening, Branch Manager. Thank you for sparing time from your busy schedule to visit me."
"I heard (...). Is that true?"
Why did he have to pick such an awkward time for a conversation? You sigh. "Branch Manager, if I struggle to understand what you're saying and need you to repeat it until my comprehension kicks in, please bear with me."
"Very well. I heard that (you declined consent)."
"You mean the brain surgery?"
"As an asset, you consented (for W Corp. to do anything to you). I technically have the right to (force your brain surgery). However, there is still (a system in place for assets to register any grievances or abuse and hold me accountable). When I'm considered for promotion, I expect HQ (to examine whether my leadership caused undue burden on this branch). I don't want to take chances."
"You want me to make it easy on you."
"And although Engineering makes it look scary, I (don't intend for this to be the punitive behavior adjustment surgery). I value your work on (your mother mission)."
Your thinking blacks out, then returns to the Branch Manager with his mouth open.
"Ms. Ji-Min... I am so sorry."
"What... what did I just say?"
"To summarize more gently: you resent W Corp. for making you run a cruel mission against your mother."
Your face burns. There's no way you can convincingly play off any resentment as a joke or walk back your comments. You rack your brain for the best line to salvage the situation. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to speak my thoughts out loud like that; I always worked to put the company first."
"(The company values) your sacrifices." The Branch Manager falls into contemplation while you clench your hands together. "Back to asset consent. I still want your signature, but (we don't need Teresa if you don't want him). I can (arrange a non-W. Corp. surgeon to operate on you, even on short notice). That'll be a huge hassle, however, and (I rather that you just trust me to keep Teresa in check)."
"My opinion matters that much to you?"
The Branch Manager nods. "I'll even sweeten the deal. Let Teresa repair your brain, and (I'll give you something nice)."
"I appreciate your consideration, but are you sure?"
"I insist. You (confessed your innermost feelings, even if unintentionally), and you almost died today. This is (my way of acknowledging what you've done for me and W Corp.)."
"Thank you." Your turn to fall into contemplation. Trust the Branch Manager and get a bonus, or go out-of-network?
Hung out with Lorine and made the Director wait. Increased Rapport +4 with Lorine. Increased Rapport +1 with Blaine and Bahij. Increased Favors +1 with Lorine. Decreased Rapport -4 with Director.
Visited your mother. Increased Rapport +4 with your mother. Increased Rapport +1 with Director.
Week 15 (Work) / Schedule I / If W<17, all agents take -50HP / Conduct Emergency check
Girish: (1) 1W,
Lorine: 3W per Ji-Min's request (Favors -1)
Blaine: (2) 1W
Bahij: 3W per Ji-Min's request (Favors -1)
Rama: (6) 3W
Irmtraud: (2) 1W
Ji-Min: 3W
...15W. Spill. The passengers riot during Week 15.
Save Ji-Min: (5) Yes, set to 10HP
Save Bahij: (6) Yes, set to 10HP
Emergency vs.: (5) Bahij
Bahij calls Girish... Girish declines
Bahij falls below -30HP, do not save
Week 15 (Performance Evaluation)
Ji-Min replaced Blaine as Captain
Girish, Blaine, and Irmtraud all receive Strike +1
Chelsey Starting M: (5)
You didn't chat. Regained 10HP.
Blaine "chatted" with you. Increase Rapport +2 with Blaine.
Lorine "chatted" with you. Increase Rapport +2 with Lorine.
HP Review
Ji-Min: 65 ~ 35 (3W) ~ -15 (Spill) ~ 10 (Saved)
Girish: 70 ~ 100 (2AP Rest) ~ 90 (1W) ~ 40 (Spill)
Lorine: 90 ~ 60 (3W) ~ 10 (Spill)
Blaine: 100 ~ 80 (2AP Personal) ~ 70 (1W) ~ 20 (Spill)
Bahij: 60 ~ 30 (3W) ~ -20 (Spill) ~ 10 (Saved) ~ -90 (Emergency)
Rama: 100 ~ 70 (3W) ~ 20 (Spill)
Irmtraud: 100 ~ 80 (2AP Personal) ~ 70 (1W) 20 (Spill)
M Review
Girish: 10 ~ 12 (2AP Personal) ~ 13 (Bahij death) ~ 17 (Strike +1)
Lorine: 11 ~ 13 (Bahij death)
Blaine: 21 ~ 23 (2AP Personal) ~ 25 (Bahij death) ~ 29 (Strike +1)
Rama: 15 ~ 19 (Strike +1)
Irmtraud: 9 ~ 11 (2AP Personal) ~ 12 (Bahij death) ~ 16 (Strike +1)
Azure Squad stat changes
Ji-Min: 55~20HP
Katherine: Ready
Amita: (2) ST; Stuck in District 11
At the end of each week, Amita attempts to extract from District 11 (success if d6 = 6).
The Crew's stat changes
Ji-Min: 25/75HP ~ 20/70HP
Girish: (70HP, Rapport +1, Favors -1, 10M) ~ (40HP, Rapport +1, Favors -1, 17M, Strike +1)
Lorine: (90HP, Rapport +5, Favors +1, 11M) ~ (10HP, Rapport +11, Favors +1, 13M)
Blaine: (100HP, Rapport +9, Favors +0, 21M) ~ (20HP, Rapport +12, Favors +0, 29M, Strike +1)
Bahij: (60HP, Rapport +9, Favors +2, 26M, Strike +1) ~ (-90HP, Rapport +10, Favors +1, 26M, Strike +1), DEAD
Chelsey: (100HP, Rapport +?, Favors +0, 5M) NEW
Rama: (100HP, Rapport -1, Favors +0, 15M, Strike +1) ~ (20HP, Rapport -1, Favors +0, 19M, Strike +1)
Irmtraud: (100HP, Rapport +2, Favors +0, 9M) ~ (20HP, Rapport +2, Favors +0, 16M, Strike +1), Meltdown
Director's rapport change: +13 ~ +10
Visited your mother. Increased Rapport +4 with your mother. Increased Rapport +1 with Director.
Week 15 (Work) / Schedule I / If W<17, all agents take -50HP / Conduct Emergency check
Girish: (1) 1W,
Lorine: 3W per Ji-Min's request (Favors -1)
Blaine: (2) 1W
Bahij: 3W per Ji-Min's request (Favors -1)
Rama: (6) 3W
Irmtraud: (2) 1W
Ji-Min: 3W
...15W. Spill. The passengers riot during Week 15.
Save Ji-Min: (5) Yes, set to 10HP
Save Bahij: (6) Yes, set to 10HP
Emergency vs.: (5) Bahij
Bahij calls Girish... Girish declines
Bahij falls below -30HP, do not save
Week 15 (Performance Evaluation)
Ji-Min replaced Blaine as Captain
Girish, Blaine, and Irmtraud all receive Strike +1
Chelsey Starting M: (5)
You didn't chat. Regained 10HP.
Blaine "chatted" with you. Increase Rapport +2 with Blaine.
Lorine "chatted" with you. Increase Rapport +2 with Lorine.
HP Review
Ji-Min: 65 ~ 35 (3W) ~ -15 (Spill) ~ 10 (Saved)
Girish: 70 ~ 100 (2AP Rest) ~ 90 (1W) ~ 40 (Spill)
Lorine: 90 ~ 60 (3W) ~ 10 (Spill)
Blaine: 100 ~ 80 (2AP Personal) ~ 70 (1W) ~ 20 (Spill)
Bahij: 60 ~ 30 (3W) ~ -20 (Spill) ~ 10 (Saved) ~ -90 (Emergency)
Rama: 100 ~ 70 (3W) ~ 20 (Spill)
Irmtraud: 100 ~ 80 (2AP Personal) ~ 70 (1W) 20 (Spill)
M Review
Girish: 10 ~ 12 (2AP Personal) ~ 13 (Bahij death) ~ 17 (Strike +1)
Lorine: 11 ~ 13 (Bahij death)
Blaine: 21 ~ 23 (2AP Personal) ~ 25 (Bahij death) ~ 29 (Strike +1)
Rama: 15 ~ 19 (Strike +1)
Irmtraud: 9 ~ 11 (2AP Personal) ~ 12 (Bahij death) ~ 16 (Strike +1)
Azure Squad stat changes
Ji-Min: 55~20HP
Katherine: Ready
Amita: (2) ST; Stuck in District 11
At the end of each week, Amita attempts to extract from District 11 (success if d6 = 6).
The Crew's stat changes
Ji-Min: 25/75HP ~ 20/70HP
Girish: (70HP, Rapport +1, Favors -1, 10M) ~ (40HP, Rapport +1, Favors -1, 17M, Strike +1)
Lorine: (90HP, Rapport +5, Favors +1, 11M) ~ (10HP, Rapport +11, Favors +1, 13M)
Blaine: (100HP, Rapport +9, Favors +0, 21M) ~ (20HP, Rapport +12, Favors +0, 29M, Strike +1)
Chelsey: (100HP, Rapport +?, Favors +0, 5M) NEW
Rama: (100HP, Rapport -1, Favors +0, 15M, Strike +1) ~ (20HP, Rapport -1, Favors +0, 19M, Strike +1)
Irmtraud: (100HP, Rapport +2, Favors +0, 9M) ~ (20HP, Rapport +2, Favors +0, 16M, Strike +1), Meltdown
Director's rapport change: +13 ~ +10
INSTRUCTIONS. Submit a plan. See bottom of post for preplans.
-[] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery. Where should you repair your brain?
--[] W Corp. Trust Branch Manager to manage Teresa. Gain a bonus from the Branch Manager.
--[] Out-of-Network. Just to be safe. Nothing else happens.
-[] Day Off. Distribute AP up to one of the following and set the battle conditions for Week 17. The battle will be unavoidable.
--[] Rest. You nearly died! Week 16 (Day Off) Each AP restores 20HP. Week 17 (Day Off) Misery Terrorists roll d6+3 for X / Assistants make major effort rolls / If AP<X, you take -50HP and decrease Rapport -16 with Director. Rest for how many AP:
--[] Bribes. The Director needs to help get Seven Association off your back. Week 16 (Day Off) Decrease Rapport -6 with Director. Week 17 (Day Off) Assistants make major effort rolls / If AP<3, decrease Rapport -16 with Director. Costs 1AP to select.
Note: You'll be able to hire Kwame and Imamu from Sapphire Squad as assistants. For each assistant hired, decrease Rapport -2 with Director. Kwame is Elite (add +1 to Effort Rolls).
-[] Workweek. Contribute W with the crew to suppress disorderly passengers.
--[] Make requests:
--[] Contribute W to the quota:
Note #1: Rabbit Protocol is on cooldown for the current and next week.
Note #2: You may prefix one request with "(Authority)" this week (force one agent to follow that request, regardless of Rapport or Favor).
Note #3: You may request any agent not in meltdown to overcharge (clear the quota). After the Meltdown calculation step, the agent's HP is set to 0HP), and if the agent is from Udjat, decrease Rapport -4 with Director.
Passenger Advisory Report:
Week 16 (Work) / If W<17, all agents take -50HP and decrease Rapport -8 with Director; otherwise, increase Rapport +1 with Director / Conduct Emergency check
Ji-Min: 20HP
Girish: 40HP (Rapport +1, Favors -1, 17M, Strike +1)
Lorine: 10HP (Rapport +11, Favors +1, 13M)
Blaine: 20HP (Rapport +12, Favors +0, 29M, Strike +1)
Chelsey: 100HP (Rapport +?, Favors +0, 5M)
Rama: 20HP (Rapport -1, Favors +0, 19M, Strike +1)
Irmtraud: 20HP (Rapport +2, Favors +0, 16M, Strike +1), Meltdown
Girish: 40HP (Rapport +1, Favors -1, 17M, Strike +1)
Lorine: 10HP (Rapport +11, Favors +1, 13M)
Blaine: 20HP (Rapport +12, Favors +0, 29M, Strike +1)
Chelsey: 100HP (Rapport +?, Favors +0, 5M)
Rama: 20HP (Rapport -1, Favors +0, 19M, Strike +1)
Irmtraud: 20HP (Rapport +2, Favors +0, 16M, Strike +1), Meltdown
No action is currently asked of the following, but is published as a notice:
Passenger Advisory Report's roll (Week 17): (1)
Week 17 (Work) / Schedule I / If W<17, all agents take -50HP and decrease Rapport -8 with Director; otherwise, increase Rapport +1 with Director / Conduct Emergency check
-[] Meltdown. Keep an eye on other agents to reduce their damage.
--[] Irmtraud. Increase Favors between +1 to +3 (more Favors with fewer protectors and failed meltdown check) with Irmtraud. Costs 2AP.
-[] Relationships. Spend time with another agent. Increase Rapport +1. If the agent has a strike, apply Calm (does not gain M for strikes and agent deaths); otherwise, increase Morale +1 (modify the Effort Roll based on the count).
--[] Girish
--[] Lorine
--[] Blaine
--[] Chelsey
--[] Rama. Additionally, decrease Rapport -1 for all other agents.
--[] Irmtraud. Additionally, decrease Rapport -1 with Rama.
--[] Nobody. Regain 10HP.
PREPLANS. See spoilers for specific details. You may submit a custom plan.
[] Plan: W Corp. + Rest
[] Plan: W Corp. + Bribes
[] Plan: Out-of-Network + Bribes
-[] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery
--[] W Corp.
--[] Out-of-Network
-[] Day Off
--[] Rest. Rest for how many AP:
--[] Bribes
-[] Workweek
--[] Make requests:
--[] Contribute W to the quota:
-[] Meltdown
--[] Irmtraud
-[] Relationships
--[] Girish
--[] Lorine
--[] Blaine
--[] Chelsey
--[] Rama
--[] Irmtraud
--[] Nobody
--[] W Corp.
--[] Out-of-Network
-[] Day Off
--[] Rest. Rest for how many AP:
--[] Bribes
-[] Workweek
--[] Make requests:
--[] Contribute W to the quota:
-[] Meltdown
--[] Irmtraud
-[] Relationships
--[] Girish
--[] Lorine
--[] Blaine
--[] Chelsey
--[] Rama
--[] Irmtraud
--[] Nobody
[x] Plan: W Corp. + Rest
-[x] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery
--[x] W Corp.
-[x] Day Off
--[x] Rest. Rest for how many AP: 5
-[x] Workweek
--[x] Make requests: (Authority) Ask Girish to Overcharge.
-[x] Relationships
--[x] Blaine
-[x] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery
--[x] W Corp.
-[x] Day Off
--[x] Rest. Rest for how many AP: 5
-[x] Workweek
--[x] Make requests: (Authority) Ask Girish to Overcharge.
-[x] Relationships
--[x] Blaine
[x] Plan: W Corp. + Bribes
-[x] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery
--[x] W Corp.
-[x] Day Off
--[x] Bribes
-[x] Workweek
--[x] Make requests: (Authority) Ask Girish to Overcharge.
-[x] Relationships
--[x] Nobody
-[x] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery
--[x] W Corp.
-[x] Day Off
--[x] Bribes
-[x] Workweek
--[x] Make requests: (Authority) Ask Girish to Overcharge.
-[x] Relationships
--[x] Nobody
[x] Plan: Out-of-Network + Bribes
-[x] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery
--[x] Out-of-Network
-[x] Day Off
--[x] Bribes
-[x] Workweek
--[x] Make requests: (Authority) Ask Girish to Overcharge.
-[x] Relationships
--[x] Nobody
-[x] Immediate Events - Brain Surgery
--[x] Out-of-Network
-[x] Day Off
--[x] Bribes
-[x] Workweek
--[x] Make requests: (Authority) Ask Girish to Overcharge.
-[x] Relationships
--[x] Nobody
Special Assistance
Workweek special assistance is freely available to the player when the following two criteria are both met:
In addition, as Captain, you have Authority regardless of the circumstances. The player may prefix one request with "(Authority)" to force one agent to follow that request, regardless of Rapport or Favor. The request is still subject to QM veto if it goes against the rules for a normal request.
Warning! Fellow agents don't want to deal with tyrants. Expect Rapport decreases with all agents when using (Authority). The exact decrease depends on multiple factors and may be different for each agent.
Workweek special assistance is freely available to the player when the following two criteria are both met:
- Rabbit Protocol is on cooldown
- The current Week is Schedule I.
In addition, as Captain, you have Authority regardless of the circumstances. The player may prefix one request with "(Authority)" to force one agent to follow that request, regardless of Rapport or Favor. The request is still subject to QM veto if it goes against the rules for a normal request.
Warning! Fellow agents don't want to deal with tyrants. Expect Rapport decreases with all agents when using (Authority). The exact decrease depends on multiple factors and may be different for each agent.
They mock you for living behind the times.
They call you stupid for believing that augments and prosthetics pollute the body and soul.
But only you wield the conviction to maintain your humanity.
Together at the Church of Wholeness, let's work to expose the truth and save everyone.
Make the City Great Again!
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