Page 17

Run by Peter Murray

This Game is currently ON HOLD !!

    "What is SLA Industries? The World of Progress? Well, that depends on what I say and what I'm allowed to say. If you've been an operative as long as I have then you'd have seen a lot of horrible and questionable things in your time. When you join SLA, you are naïve, you've watched the television and you think it's all gonna be great. That's right, it's all gonna be fine, you'll just do your job, get paid, get rich then retire. That's what I thought all those years ago. I was so wrong, I didn't know what I'd bargained for. You've gotta work hard in SLA Industries, believe it or not you've gotta risk your life if you want o get ahead. When you're working for SLA Industries, you're in with the monsters, all kinds of humans, Stormers, you name it, you're working with it and just sometimes you're killin' it. Well, that's the way I see it. I wouldn't really advise anyone to join SLA Industries, but they still do, by the thousands.

    "Listen, the World of Progress is a ruthless place and everyone's poor and expendable. I've been workin' for SLA Industries for 30 years and I still haven't enough credit to retire.

"I love this job."

Cobalt, Ebon Investigator (Cloak Division), SCL 2A, Age 52.

 

    There are many differing philosophies in SLA Industries. What you believe is very important to your survival. In the World of Progress, SLA Industries has put the lid on a great many mysteries. Some are dangerous and unpleasant, others are enlightening and educational.
    Then there are some that are maddening. This is the truth and essence of SLA Industries itself. It is a universe of tension, trauma and teetering on the brink of explosion. Some inquisitive individuals have come close to this great and powerful discovery, many of them have died without reason and a few, disappeared without trace, though all are gone before the truth can be broadcast to the World of Progress. SLA Industries has made sure of that.
    SLA Industries wants to last forever.
    With such a strange and unusual background, many horrors and dark misgivings of human natures evolve into this twisted and nihilistic society. We have found that this game works best o stage horrors of a depth that is new to role-playing. The planet Mort is an infallible setting for show-casing some of the darker sides (not necessarily aggressive) of our own human natures.
    SLA Industries immerses characters in a world that enhances emotions of all kinds, hopes, dreams and nightmares, to build and destroy. SLA Industries is of personal experiences, it is a dark, deep pool that reflects the things that are within us all the way to our death - maybe even after that - and in this, it can be almost unparalleled and atmospheric horror game.

SLA Industries
The Operative
Mort
Mort City  
Buildings of Mort  
The Squad   Updated 03.03.07 

BPN 1        BPN 2        BPN 3        BPN 4        BPN 5        BPN 6        BPN 7

BPN 8        BPN 9        BPN 10        BPN 11        BPN 12        BPN 13        BPN 14

BPN 15        BPN 16        BPN 17        BPN 18        BPN 19        BPN 20        BPN 21

BPN 22

BPN 23 New!

 

SLA Industries and Mr Slayer      [top]
    This year, the World of Progress celebrates its 901st birthday with SLA Industries at the helm. For all these centuries, SLA has remained the prime ruler of this capitalistic society, observing its growth and expansion, and industrial cloak of power that spreads across the World of Progress, a vast universe of assiduity and advancement.
    The World of Progress is an open market whose customers are numerous planets and solar systems trading goods and vital materials, guided by the watchful eye of their master, Mr Slayer - the sole owner of SLA Industries.
    Mr Slayer's office, at the heart of Mort Central, is a familiar sight to all of us. A huge, gleaming black pyramid rising above the towers and blocks of the rest of SLA's corporate heartland, it shine out as a beacon of order and hope through never-ending rain in a million photographs and vid clips. In real life, it is far, far more impressive. Standing at the entrance, you find that the structure stretches to left and right and rises above you, filling your world. It is a proud sight, and one, that every employee and Operative on Mort whether resident or visiting, should take time to experience.
    It is difficult to pin down where Mr Slayer's sheer awe stems from. His appearance is certainly imposing. A lithe, muscular 9'3" tall, he immediately reminds you of your father when you were a little child, stern yet caring, towering over you. His facial features are unsettling, even frightening; those catlike yellow eyes seem to bore into your soul. Like his razor-sharp teeth, his lithe fingers ending in talons, and his thick mane of white-streaked waist-length black hair, they seem to bring ancient predators to mind. His nasal opening, peeled back like a skull's inevitably reminds you of death.
    His power is obvious. When you stand in his presence, it is like being buffeted by a storm of energy. This is the person who has seen civilizations fall, who owns the company that has controlled most of the universe for the last 901 years.
    "What are you?"
    "One of a kind!"

Mr Slayer, in an unpublished interview.

 

The Operative      [top]
    A freelance piece worker that provides SLA Industries with a variety of services. SLA operatives have a broad spectrum of functions and labels within the progressive structure, many act as internal investigators and combat operatives wile others enlist as counter-espionage agents and corporate administrators. Operatives are paid generously for their efforts to maintain SLA Industries as the prime Suppressor Power.
    SLA Industries has unlimited resources to reward those who work hard within the structure. If you work within the rules, you can't go far wrong. Whilst employees deal with mundane tasks and repetitive jobs, the operative's lifestyle is a great deal more hazardous and risky. SLA Industries teaches its operatives to face and become murderers on a daily basis.
    "Know Your Rights - The Operatives Handbook". Rule 1; Where you stand in SLA Industries. "Authority over others is a gift, not a right. Like all gifts from SLA Industries, it can be taken away." - Mr Slayer.

 

Mort      [top]
    The World of Progress is a vast structure of solar systems containing planets who work and manufacture for SLA Industries. The purpose of such worlds are wide and varied; some are designated to obtain natural resources, others are heavily armed and used purely for storage. However, most are converted into huge Industrial Worlds, used for the production and manufacture of SLA's goods - materials for growth, supplies for cities and civilisations, foodstuffs and armaments for nourishment and protection, and it's main industry; television, for the restless eyes of society.
    Mort is recorded as having the highest production rate ever. It also contains the depravity capitals of the World of Progress. It is a mixture of cultures stretching from the racy and sophisticated lifestyles of the corporate and operatives to the seedy slums of the unemployed, the street gangs and the nightmarish existence of the Carriens, the vermin species of Mort.
    The planet Mort is industry personified, a world that since the birth of SLA Industries has been stripped naked of nearly all natural resources and its surfaced drowned with a sprawling mass of industrial factories, power plants and vast cities, over populated and disturbingly claustrophobic.
    All that is left are toxic oceans of industrial waste, ozone depleted skies filled with dark clouds that rain and storm, day and night. A society that has never seen a forest, natural life or blue skies on a sunny day.

    "I was so sick of the rain that I wanted to kill something, I wished that once, I could get a BPN off-world. I'd been working in this city ever since I got out of Meny seven years ago. It's not like there wasn't a demand for good Kick Murder Ops anywhere on Mort. I was good though, so it seemed that those in charge wanted me around for those 'special' situations.
    "Staring up into the clouds, I thought more foul thoughts about the weather. I was supposed to pick up Shade and go from there, so off I went."

Void, Human Kick Murder, SCL 8B, Deceased.

 

Mort City      [top]
    The city of Mort is made up of many different, interconnected sectors. The heart of the city , like a spider lurking at the centre of her web, is Mort Central - an area of towers and office blocks, cleanliness and safety, corporates and forms, money and power. Raised high above the other sectors on the decayed remains of long-dead buildings, it is from here that Mr Slayer controls the World of Progress.
    Central is surrounded by Uptown, where the lesser Corporates and Operatives live in a fair degree of luxury. Outside and below Uptown is Suburbia, a buffer zone between the luxury of the corporates and the stark nightmare that is Downtown. From Suburbia, the middle classes can look up at the residents of Uptown and Central, and down upon their poorer neighbours in the Downtown slums.
    Downtown is a sprawling maze of homes, bars, shops and factories, reaching up to the sky and clawing down into the earth. The further you travel into Downtown, the further you are from SLA civilisation of Central. Vast underground levels spread out from Downtown beneath the surface of the city like an old bruise from a wound. Once you enter these, even the stores give way to increasingly decayed factories and mouldering warehouses. Downtown is a hostile jungle, and the only law is the survival of the fittest. Only fools and optimists trust o the Shivers for their safety, since even they will rarely venture into the lower levels of Downtown. What there is of the rain is only an oily mud by the time it hits ground level; the watery sunlight never reaches as far. The last official census estimated there were 285 levels to Downtown
    At the edges of Downtown crouch the Cannibal Sectors, waiting like malignant animals for the chance to attack. Downtown may represent the very dregs of humanity, but the beast-like Carriens, mad ex-War Criminals and revolting cannibal families are far worse. Like other, more sinister monstrosities, they fester and grow in the darkness far from the harsh electric lights of the rest of the city.

    "I was lucky, though - my apartment was like on the second floor. The folks below me were always getting' flooded out. After any heavy rain, their floor would be calf-deep in this filthy, oily water. There wasn't anything they could do to stop it, y'know. They couldn't afford to move any place else. They just had wait for it to drain away. The flash floods are the worst though, man. It had been raining big-time for three or four days. I was just lyin' on my bed, trying to watch the crappy vid that I had. The picture was terrible, but it was better than staring at the four walls, y'know."

Danny, resident of Lower Downtown.

Buildings of Mort      [top]

 

The Squad - Borthers in Arms (51027)      [top]

 

BPN 1   [top]
Blue

"Just out of Meny and wet behind the ears."

Thomas Evans, Shiver Sergeant on Duty at Central Gate 5.

    This is the first of many comments the group get as the take their first tentative steps in the employment of SLA Industries. They are being escorted into Central to the Department of Administration. The Sergeant is also keen to point out that this will be the one and only time they will be able to enter Central without a permit and all their weapons. Taken to the Department they are greeted by Frank Gopher and escorted to the offices of Wheylan Smithers (SCL 8).

    Whilst waiting, he's on the phone; Raaj'eel overhears something about 'Type 120' and it being too dangerous for a new squad. Eventually they meet Mr Smithers who explains some further administrative matters about their Squad (51027). Firstly they need a name, mentioning some names that are banned. After some bickering they agree on 'Brothers In Arms'. Bane was hoping for 'Widowmakers', but it seems someone did realise it was his name.

    Three men and a woman enter the room, Willison Smith introduces himself to the group and asks them to sign their contract of employment, which also provides details of their housing allocation. As soon as they are signed (already witnessed) they are removed and he leaves them to the capable hands of Mr Smithers.

    The squad's first BPN has been allocated to them and they will be escorted to The Crib to see the process. Mr Gopher escorts them to the BPN Hall and takes them through the procedures for getting a BPN. The squad have heard stories of the Slayers Crib, but the experience is daunting. However with the assistance of Mr Gopher they get the experience without a scratch.

 

BPN 2    [top]
Blue

BPN - SAN/BLU/002356894501
SCL - 10
Sponsoring Dept - Department of Sanitation
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 50 c/day
    Squad required to investigate sewer in Suburban Sector 26, 13BS and escort sanitation crew to clear the blockage. Contact Benjamin Hughes at the above Department, in Suburban Area Office 5.

    As usual for a green squad, a Blue. BPN seems straightforward and the squad get on it. They meet the contact at the Dept and are introduced the sanitation crew assigned (Bill and John). Day one seems to go well, however there seems to be some friction starting already between certain members. They find some kind of disused tunnel containing some thick dark liquid, but are unable to discern what t is. Day two starts well but the tunnel they found yesterday is gone, very strange as there are no signs of any repair. It's as if id didn't exist. It ends up worse when the shit hits the fan. Investigating a lead Raaj'eel leads the squad to a central sewer connection. Some of the squad come under fire and it is only by some luck that they do not all die, however Tia (the medic) takes two shots to the chest and they are unable to save her. Raaj'eel hears something but can't quite put his finger on it. Not a good start for a new squad.

    Raaj'eel seems to get on well with Bill and they are seen leaving together after they finish for the day heading for a beer. The next day does not start well when the vehicle they are travelling in is caught in one of the numerous traffic jams. It is not helped when Harry accuses Bill of deliberately taking them into the street with the problem (he's sure he heard something on the radio). St'l and Stuart head off to get their armour repaired while they wait for the jam to clear. Matters deteriorate however when Harry accuses Bill of lying, the squad are asked to leave the vehicle and told the matter has been report to Area Office 5.

    The squad receive a call that they are to remain in the vicinity until further notice. St'l and Stuart are returning to the vehicle when a limo stops and gives them a lift. The two really don't know what is going on but go with the flow. The squad, together will Bill and John are invited by Jason (the limo occupant) to a meeting in a nearby building. Basically Harry reiterates his accusation of lying and deliberately delaying the BPN, but without any evidence. Bill denies this and has concerns over the group, except Raaj'eel who he says is very efficient.

    Jason does not want to hear any further bickering and informs them that they will work together and the BPN will be completed. They have the afternoon off to think matters through and return tomorrow to work. The squad head for a meal to discuss matters, but only seems to make matters worse. Klank decides it's time to see if anyone is chipped, Harry seems to be giving some concern not just to him, but no-one appears to be. Raaj'eel leaves early.

    The squad return to the job he following day, but tensions are high. They resolve the matter of the sewer clean up and go their own way again.

    Should the Matrix have matched this squad? Can they survive a simple Blue? Some of them obviously not.

 

BPN 3    [top]
Blue

BPN - SAN/BLU/006458952187
SCL - 10
Sponsoring Dept - Department of Sanitation
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 75 c/day
    Operatives required to carry out inspection of Sector 278 storm drains. Squads only, no single operatives need apply. Contact Harold Green at the above Department in Uptown Area Office 14.

As usual for a green squad (very green by the last BPN) a second Blue. For the first time they queue in the Crib for a BPN and manage to get to the office just in time. After the last BPN the squad have some internal problems that are affecting their operating efficiency. Karla, Tia's replacement, is having second thoughts about the squad. She sees this tension and wonders what she has done to deserve this, who did she annoy at Meny to get this assignment.

The squad move of to make contact with the Department. The brief is short; there have been reports of some blockages in the drains the squad are to check it out before they are purged.

Nothing happens in the three days on the job and the squad seemed to have recovered some reputation, with the Department of Sanitation anyway. The tensions in the group have not improved however and SLA Industries does not like tension in a squad.

Raaj'eel is bothered by something that he can't quite put his finger on, something from the last BPN?

Karla has the report from the dark liquid, its composition is unknown and neither is its use. Logged for future use.

 

BPN 4   [top]
Blue

BPN - REE/BLU/002534897321
SCL - 10
Sponsoring Dept - Department of Recreation & Entertainment
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 200 c/op
    Operatives required to clear sewers prior to Gore Zone on Saturday evening in Downtown Sector 581, 56 BE. Ensure secure during programme and clear any residuals post programme. Contact Marge Jones at above Department in Uptown Area Office 21.

A bit more profile on this Blue for the squad, working on a Gore Zone slot. With Third Eye on hand could it give the opportunity for some good exposure or will the squad deal with it with their usual aplomb?

It starts of well enough with the squad taking the briefing and understanding their role. They are one of six squads covering the Sector in question. The area should be cleared before the show starts and they need to monitor the area whilst it is one; they will be told when the sewers into Lower Downtown will be opened and closed. Once the show is over they are to clean up and deal with any residuals, usual bounty applies.

They get to the area in time and start removing the residents from the area, some only move on when pressed with force, but nothing really the squad can't handle. They inform Station Analysis that the area is clear and await instruction; covering the two sewers entrance they have been assigned. They are plugged into Gore Zone as it happens to see the Carrien Snake Eyes take his position amongst the Contract Killers, though he doesn't stand a chance against Delia.

The show finishes and the squad clear their area, however there seems to be a problem; the sewer doors wont close. The squad have to hold until Station Analysis can solve the problem. Raaj'eel, St'l, Stuart and Karla monitor once entrance, whilst Bane, Vorp, Harry and Klank deal with the second. Stuart has a close call when he almost takes down two kids, but is halted just in time and they're told to clear off. The others are not having such a good time; a group of Carrien are coming up the tunnel and without the door closing they're in trouble. To cut them off Bane heads into the sewer with Vorp, followed by Harry whilst Klank remains outside. When inside Station Analysis inform the squad that the doors are closing per their request, shutting the three inside.

Furious communication ensues with Station Analysis to get the doors open, however the squad don't have the clearance to do so. This will take some time. Inside the tunnel the three are meeting some resistance and standing in a hail of bullets with all communication cut off. Harry tries to find a way out but is the first to drop. Vorp and Bane take the rest but Vorp is fatally wounded.

By the time the door opens only Bane is alive and looks well, there was nothing he could do for the others.

Questions seem to hang in the air, but they have done their job.

 

BPN 5    [top]
RED

BPN - TEN/RED/003569257842
SCL - 10
Sponsoring Dept - Third Eye News
Training Package - Death/Kick Murder
Monitoring - Third Eye
Consolidated Bonus - 400 c/op
    Rogue Operative turned serial. Operatives to attend. Heavy media coverage.

On their way back from Gore Zone the squad receive an urgent BPN. They are in the vicinity and required to attend. High profile, is this their chance to redeem themselves in the eyes of SLA Industries.

On reaching the scene they are approached by a Third Eye News team who will cover their attack on the rogue operative. The squad infighting comes to a head as no one listens and no real plan is formulated. Raaj'eel takes position from a nearby building, though he seems the only one aware of this. The others argue in front of Third Eye, whilst some head straight into the situation. The argument blows up between St'l and Bane, with St'l removing his headset and storming off.

Stuart has taken a position to the rear of the building and is making his way around with Karla and Klank. Raaj'eel sees that his position is no longer required and knowing no one is in the immediate vicinity of the entrance makes his way across the street. Third Eye informs the squad that they have been removed from the BPN and that another squad is on their way to take over. However Stuart has other ideas. He enters the rear of the building and takes on the rogue operative. Klank shoots some footage while the two go at it with power claymores.

Stuart is successful and with the footage Klank took has done himself no end of good. Even though they have succeeded they do not receive any payment due to their removal prior to this.

Klank speaks with the Third Eye team and they take the footage with a small royalty to Stuart. Klank also puts a good word in for Bane, though no one really knows why?

With two of their squad dead, another who has walked off, where are they heading?

Will SLA Industries finish with them?

All that good work for naught, what's next Dante.

 

BPN 6   [top]
Blue

BPN - SAN/BLU/002356925784
SCL - 10
Sponsoring Dept - Sanitation
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 50 c/day
    Operatives required to daily 'street maintenance'/'sewer clean-up' in and around Downtown Sector 283, 82 BN. Reclamation of sewer channels. Contact Maria Brann at above Department, in Downtown Area Office 76.

After the disaster of the last BPN, completely FUBAR, the squad are required to attend before Jason once again. St'l has already been spoken to by an elder and joins the squad for this briefing. Jason explains that SLA Industries does not tolerate the kind of behaviour that the squad seem to excel at. If the squad fail to deal with their internal politics then SLA Industries will solve the problem. As a final measure the squad are being allocated a 'leader' whose orders and commands they must obey, he has been given increased SCL to enable to carry out the role. Tool introduces himself to the squad, a Stormer 313. The squad accept his position, though how far this will be in practice no one knows. Stuart is not at the briefing and no explanation is given.

Due to their bad reputation within SLA Industries, except the Department of Sanitation, the squad are given a BLUE to reclaim their reputation.

The first day of investigation goes well with the squad taking their orders from the Tool with only a shade of sarcasm, more so with Bane. The second day leads to a curious discovery. Whilst taking point Raaj'eel wonders why he is doing this, why is he here his life is so full of despair? Bane and Klank feel a great deal of pressure from the Ebb, and Bane moves forward. The rest of the squad feel the same despair as they come to Raaj'eel's position and cannot make themselves do anything. As Bane moves forward there is a great pressure in the Ebb, giving him and Klank greater understanding of their race. The taste of Ebb nearby is nothing they have encountered before but both feel the need to prostrate themselves. Something is moving towards them.

As it closes in the despair deepens in the squad. The creature places its hand on Bane putting him into some kind of coma, though he feels what is going on from a differing perspective. The creature approaches Raaj'eel and opening its maw licks his face with a forked tongue. Bane wonders where such a strange taste came from?

The creature disappears from the sewer, as does everyone's despair, though Bane and Klank remain affected by something.

Station Analysis contact Tool and inform him that the squad are being pulled from the BPN, the squad will receive full payment. They squad will be questioned by Dark Lament about what happened.

The squad are questioned about the creature though none really understand what happened. Klank and Bane have a greater understanding, both know this is their race's final state, though only Bane welcome's it with open arms.

The memory does not leave him quickly; neither does the taste on his tongue.

What did the squad meet?

Bane feels his destiny draw him closer.

 

BPN 7    [top]
YELLOW

BPN - TRA/YEL/009654215783
SCL - 10
Sponsoring Dept - Transport
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 150 c/op
    SLA Industries vehicle to be reclaimed. Contact Department of Transport for full details of vehicle and operation. Bonus for successful retrieval dependant on early resolution.

The squad have recovered some of their reputation, however not all and SLA Industries is still following their careers closely.

Tool again leads the squad into Downtown this time and a mission to recover a SLA vehicle, or at least its GPS and Data Records system. They know it is some way into Downtown, but enquiries show that the gang there may be up for negotiation. They also know the last position from the GPS.

Making enquiries at a retailer for some extra equipment and information, the squad are jumped by some of the gang who haven't taken too kindly to the squad poking their noses into their business. The squad are successful, it seems Tool's leadership is coming to the fore, but not before Tool falls 2 storeys through a weakened floor. Karla comes across an interesting disk (though not yet managed to break its code) and Raaj'eel acquires some 'goods'. The squad encounter further resistance, but nothing they can't handle, on the way to meeting up with Tool (who has almost recovered from his fall). The squad move further down into the lower levels of Downtown.

For most this is the furthest they have been down, the darkness and closeness of the buildings is something very new. It also doesn't rain down here, the water drips and pours. If you could call it water, it's more full of pollutants than H2O.

Further into their trek they encounter a gentleman who is interested in what Raaj'eel procured from the last encounter. It seems these 'goods' are the property of another and he wishes them back. They are taken to meet the 'man' who agrees to an exchange. The squad find out that there is a monster around and that is why the streets are empty. It may be that this monster has taken the vehicle; it is known to take equipment of the people it kills. The 'man' agrees to keep his people away if the squad can resolve the situation, it will be to both their advantages. They get the last known position in the streets.

They squad set themselves up outside the sewer entrance where the monster is meant to be, surmising now that it could well be a manchine (mostly machine with biogenetic implants). St'l gets bored and decides to take direct action. He lifts of the sewer cap and gazes in; as he does so he is grabbed and dragged into the sewer. Unable to freely attack he is at the mercy of the manchine. Unable to pull him free the squad look helplessly on as St'l's body is dragged further into the sewer. Bane has one final idea, to drop a grenade in the hopes of killing the manchine (and ensuring St'l's death). Once the smoke clears they are unable to locate the manchine and withdraw to the rooftop of a nearby building.

Whilst guarding they hear some noises from below but are unable to locate the source. As Tool crosses the roof it collapses and he is dragged into the floor below. He manages to keep his torso on the roof level but impairs his ability to shoot at his opponent; his squad find themselves in a similar position. With the covering fire Tool is able to free himself, but not before he losses his left leg to the beast. Bane and Raaj'eel track the beast onto the other floor and are able to succeed in dealing the deathblows. However Karla and Klank are unable to save Tool who succumbs to his injuries, even a Stormer 313 can only take so much.

The 'man' speaks to them as they exit; the truce is over and he will allow them to leave. The next time may be different. The squad are in no position to argue, having lost a valued comrade and their leader they return to Upper Downtown.

 

BPN 8    [top]

BPN - None Allocated
SCL - 10
Sponsoring Dept - None
Training Package - None
Monitoring - None
Consolidated Bonus - Dependant on successful resolution.

Jason approaches the squad after their yellow with a proposition. If the squad complete it successfully they will be ready for a more difficult task he has for them. Given their past they know he is not a man to argue with and has so far been true to his word.

The squad accept the job and request details of the BPN. There is none they are told and are acting solely under Jason's direction. This they are none too happy about and can foresee some problems if things go badly wrong. Jason informs them that yesterday a clean-up squad from the Department of Sanitation were undertaking the routine clearance of a blockage when they came across some body parts. Two body parts were recovered and DNA tested; they were high ranking in SLA Industries. The matter is to be kept quite and the Department of Sanitation have been warned off.

The squad are to investigate the area of sewer and recover any and all body parts. No BPN is issued to ensure secrecy of the work. Should the squad encounter any trouble they should report to him immediately. Due to their loss on the previous mission a further Stormer 313 has been allocated to the squad; Monitor.

The squad take matters cautiously when proceeding into the sewer to recover the parts. They find a large number of limbs from different individuals. They estimate on around 20 or so people and well over 30 limbs. The limbs have been severed cleanly and are of varying length. They is nothing to indicate what did this, but it was very sharp and appears to be a single blow. Thoughts turn to who these people might be, but they know such thoughts only lead to investigation by the wrong kind of people.

On finishing and clearing most of the body parts they encounter a further group in the sewers. Trying to avoid contact they move away. They are seen as one of their number overtakes their back marker. Monitor plants a device to slow their opponents whilst everyone tries to escape. They device is partly successful however they are confronted by a squad of Shaktars in Hard armour (plus one in Silverback). The Shaktars require the squad to drop their weapons and surrender, they are on a BPN and the squad are under suspicion. The squad state they are on a BPN and the Shaktars should cease their action. There is no BPN, they checked, drop your weapons is the repeated command. The squad realise that they could fight the Shaktars but it would mean their death, they decide to drop their weapons whilst playing their last card; Jason.

The squad are released after checking with Jason, but are none too happy with the damage they have received at the hands of Brothers in Arms; they will meet again.

Jason is pleased with the squad's work and their good work when facing the Shaktars; they are promoted to SCL9.

Is this leap a good or a bad thing?

Shaktars have long memories and big families!

 

BPN 9    [top]
 GREY

BPN - INV/GRY/000000100000 - Cover Only
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - None
Training Package - None
Monitoring - None
Consolidated Bonus - Dependant on successful resolution.

Having completed their previous BPN reasonably successfully Jason briefs them on what he wishes them to undertake next.

He informs them that the Department has been tracking a serial kidnapper who is targeting high SCL employees and operatives of SLA Industries. Information is that the person or persons unknown is kidnapping the very young children of SLA employees and holding them to ransom. If the parents don't pay the child is never returned. The matter is to be dealt with discretely due to the nature of the people involved and they don't want the person scared off by the issue of a BPN and heavy handedness of a squad on a mission. He believes that Brothers in Arms have the ability to deal with the situation and resolve it. This is not a task they can refuse and bonus will be paid on successful conclusion of the matter.

Information will be made available to the squad once they have 'officially' signed up. A BPN will not be issued but should the need arise to make their conversations official they may give the 'BPN' number he has given them. If it does become necessary they may use his name to smooth matters over. He provides brief details of all the known kidnap families and whether the child was recovered of killed. Only some of the families came forward to report the matter, all their children have not been recovered, whilst the Department has uncovered others.

Throughout the briefing Raaj'eel has been bothered by a noise, or more correctly a change in the noise. It is only when Jason leaves the briefing room that he realises the recoding and monitoring equipment has come back on, throughout the meeting all this equipment was turned off and there has been no official record of the meeting or BPN.

The squad start by looking at the similarities between the different families and what if anything they had in common. Their enquiries are curtailed by the lack of information available, however they have put a request in with Jason for fuller and more complete information and family history. He promises to get this soon, but not all they ask for will be available. One of their few leads is to speak to a Shaktar who was one of the targets who reported the kidnapping. The Shaktar, K'br T'nm, is forthcoming on some information but only after checking their BPN code. He works of the Dept of War and information on him and is family is classified and does not assist the squad's enquiries.

Whilst waiting for information from Jason the squad are limited in what they can do to come up with any commonality between the victims' families. They are able to make enquiries into the two other families who reported the kidnapping, a Wraith Raider working for Dept of Expedition and a Human working for the Dept of Investigation. It is only when more detail arrives from Jason that enquiries can start in earnest. Their initial enquiries do start to indicate that they had involvement with the Dept of Stocks/Shares and Bonds. Their enquiries seem to keep coming up with one individual at that Dept, who becomes suspect No 1, Frank James (he'd gone to Meny with Zafar Lawless).

When they make enquiries into Frank James they find that he is dead, and has been for around 16 hours. He was killed in an unusual way, in that the bullet used to kill him had only sufficient velocity to enter his skull but not to exit. The squad persuade Jason to allocate the BPN on his death to them as to make their enquiries easier to handle as information so far confirms Frank James' involvement (confirmed with K'br T'nm and Zafar Lawless).

The investigation and BPN is left hanging on the successful conclusion of the murder of Frank James.

 

BPN 10    [top]
 WHITE

BPN - INV/WHI/004895218765
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Investigation
Training Package - Investigation
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 750/op

The squad are awarded the BPN on Frank James' murder; being a senior member of Stocks/Shares and Bonds this needs discreet conclusion.

Their first task is to attend at the murder scene and see what occurred, also speak with his wife who discovered the body (though she herself is in hospital being treated for shock).

Gaining access to his computer system is difficult but allows them to see whom he did work for and allows them to crosscheck their list of names against his clients. Yes they all are clients. They are interrupted by Finn Tavar, a Wraith Raider in the employ of Frank James, who is almost attacked on his arrival at Mr James' apartment. Ban is only prevented from killing him by the timely interruption of Raaj'eel calling for their 'leader'. Finn is not great use as he has been away during the period of his employers murder and only recently started work for him.

The computer records throws up some strange information, it indicates that he had a son but their other information does not indicate this. Finn is not aware of any son or other child. Karla is also able to find a secret compartment within the living room holding some strange device. It seems to have some Ebb ability and so passed to Bane together with some crystals found. He is not certain what either are, but he seems to be able to develop some form of communication with the device and holds onto it. Finn does recall Mr James using the device but never in his direct presence.

They decide that the murder scene and apartment will not give up further clues and they need to question the wife, who had discovered the body. It is reasoned by the squad (?) that Klank and Finn should question Mrs James (Mary). They do know that she works as a podium dancer in the Pit and her alibi has been confirmed for the time of death. She is quite open to the initial questioning, she confirms that she and frank had no children. But matters take a turn for the worse as the tone becomes much more accusatorial and she declines to answer further questions without her legal representation and will have them removed from her (private) room. At this point the two leave, but are later escorted from the hospital by security. Discretion still appears to be a problem for the squad.

During this time they have been able to meet again with Zafar Lawless who confirms that Frank did talk about a son, but he never met with his wife and never met his son. A meeting is arranged with Marie Clarke, Corp Diplomatique, and the highest SCL target on their list. She was in a squad called Muse, but moved to develop her career. She was married to a New Paris diplomat Claude Therri until his recent death. She is rushed, returning to New Paris soon, but can help the squad. The squad have the feeling that her son Pierre is Frank's son. Though the questioning proceeds than with Mrs James, the squad leave without actually having gotten an answer to their question on the matter and another meeting is arranged with her PA (Michelle Vert).

The squad have been looking into the style of murder used on Frank James and has thrown up two previous murders; Steven Doors in the Dept of Administration and Martin Taylor in the Dept of Misinformation. What is strange about their murders is that both continued to turn up for work afterwards, but before their murders were discovered. A BPN was issued but not resolved, it was connected to an individual called Softly Softly but nothing was confirmed and the person could not be found.

Mrs James does meet the squad again with Mr Remo Dix present, her legal representation. Nothing much more is garnered from the meeting though she does confirm her husband used the item taken from the apartment. She does not know how it works. Mr Dix then seeks restitution for the damage done to the apartment, say 4,500 C (the entire payment for all squad members on the BPN). Without much leeway they have to accept and try to make it another way, say by this equipment.

A further meeting with Marie Clarke does not produce further details but the squad are more than convinced of their assumption now, tacitly agreed to by Miss Clarke. Karla has also found some information to suggest a connection between Softly Softly and a Contact Killer called Mr Nice. The two have been known to work together but the information is sketchy. Approaching Jason they are to get information on Mr Nice's whereabouts.

It seems that after days of slogging away on nothing matters are coming to a head.

The squad set up an ambush on Mr Nice as their suspicions are indicating he is/was Softly Softly and responsible for the kidnappings (his recent appearance on the Circuit with expensive armour and weapons). Monitor prepares some shaped charges as Mr Nice's armour is very strong and will probably withstand normal fire.

His apartment in downtown is small and very down at heal. They take positions in the corridors leading to the apartment and arrange a Shiver cordon on the area. A secret door is found leading to a corridor to another room, which is booby-trapped and does damage to some of the squad. As they enter the other room it leads to other rooms and is well adorned with expensive items. Down in one room is Mr Nice's dark museum with the body parts of the children he kidnapped together with some other grisly additions. There has been some alarm raised as a mechanical noise is heard from the apartment and Mr Nice arrives having circumvented their ambush.

Though a dangerous foe, Monitor's shaped charges do their work and blow large holes in his armour. Taking him out has taken its toll and their evidence supports him being behind all the kidnappings and murders.

Jason arrives and indicates he was aware of the possibility of the involvement of Mr Nice, but could not act openly in the matter. He thanks the squad for their good work on the matter and hopes to work with them again.

Though not wholly satisfactory, they have all come out alive and with some reward for their efforts.

Why can't people be honest about what they know, it would make their life much easier (but much less interesting?).

 

BPN 11    [top]
 YELLOW

BPN - EBB/YEL/000195218765
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Ebb
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 250/op

 

After the struggle of the last BPN it's nice to take a basic BPN from the Hall. Queuing up makes the whole thing cleaner.

The squad contact Korus at the Dept of Ebb for information about the Shiver Squad. They're told that the item in question was taken in a raid on Blind Sam, a fence in downtown. He knows almost nothing else that is useful and the squad move onto the Shiver station for further information. The Shiver station inform the squad that the raid was at 7am, the Shiver squad left for the Dept of Ebb at noon with their last contact at 8:30pm. At 10pm the Shiver squad were officially reported missing to the Dept of Ebb. The vehicle, a Hammer APC, can carry 8 together with a driver and gunner, all are believed dead but not confirmed.

Blind Sam is being questioned further at separate Station, but knows nothing more about the item.

On reaching the last reported position of the APC Raaj'eel is confused by what he sees and can't make sense of it, though he does consider that the vehicle keep going along the road for some distance in an erratic manner. Bane feels a disturbance in the Ebb but is unable to discern what it is, but something happened here. Raaj'eel follows the tracks until they disappear over the edge of precipice into the dark, the APC lies tow further levels down. The squad make their way down and approach the APC. As they do so they are plagued by strange visions, Bane finds them more comforting than the others but still finds the experience vary strange.

Bane starts to understand where he is but doesn't know why or why the other squad members are there. Be becomes more preoccupied by why the others should not be there and is taken away from the APC under duress. The Shivers in the APC have been fused to internal surface of the APC whilst having the exposed flesh seared off and some of their internal organs hanging from their deformed bodies. The erratic driving is explained when the driver is found with a large hole in his head, but didn't die instantly. Monitor cannot explain the situation, it looks nothing like any explosion he's seen, and the place is freakish. One of the Shivers is unaccounted for, though there is a strange trail leaving the scene.

The squad follow the trail, knowing themselves that they are being followed, having been so since their arrival deep into Downtown. The squad speak with the Part People (a local gang) who tell them of something of what happened but don't know much more. Following the trail Karla realises that the Shiver, David Breens, should be dead of blood loss though the trail continues.

It seems the appearance of the squad has attracted the attention of Scavs, but they are handled easily, with Raaj'eel continuing his tracking of David Breens. Getting him in his sights he approaches for a decent shot. He sees that David has lost both lower legs and is 'walking' on stumps, he takes shot the strange abomination (what is that on his shoulder?). He should go down but doesn't and tries to keep moving no matter what. The lump on his shoulder glows instantaneously and Raaj'eel feels searing pain as his fur is seared from his skin. Bane receives a wash of Ebb. Seeing the better part of valour is to exit he makes a dash back to the squad, however he doesn't move fast enough as he falls unconscious from a further blast of pain. Bane has sensed this before but still can't quite put his finger on what is happening.

The rest of the squad move forward to assist Raaj'eel, but themselves come under fire from the monstrosity and others approaching the dead Shiver. Others in the squad are affected by this pain blast, until eventually the monstrosity stops. The second group introduce themselves as Purge and they want the 'thing' for themselves. The squad aren't interest and force their retreat after taking out several of their number.

Bane reports in to the Dept Ebb and is told to wait there and not approach the Shiver. Shortly afterwards a Union comes and collects the body and Gore Cannon. The squad are left wondering what they're doing and somewhat dazed by the experience.

The squad are questioned afterwards by Dept Officials, the secret of the items from Frank James' apartment is revealed, before Bane would have liked to. Though no action is considered necessary at this time.

Bane again feels that his understanding has increased, he can sometimes taste it is so close

Raaj'eel sees a long rest re-growing his fur, that was a distasteful experience.

 

BPN 12    [top]
 JADE

BPN - BIO/JDE/006856218711
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Karma
Training Package - Ebon/Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 2000/squad

 

I seems the squad are getting somewhere, no one died on the last BPN.

This BPN looks like an earner if they can solve it quickly, with the addition of Menstruum in does allow the squad to take the BPN. Though this does not readily please Bane, they really are two different species.

Miss Stone informs the squad that Karma believes that an Ebon called Moss is behind the disturbances. A number of Karma employees have been killed and the matter needs to be resolved quickly. They'd prefer Moss taken alive and there is a further bonus of 300 C per operative if they do. She gives the details of the nine victims, together with pathology reports that indicate death was by a blade. Signs around indicate it was an ice blade or claw. The area of the killings is by the Downtown wall and given over to Karma factories and laboratories.

The squad make enquiries into Moss and try to find common factors in the victims. The local gangs don't know much about Moss but have heard of the murders. Enquiries are not going well when another death is reported but the squad are too late on the scene. Karla is unable to get any useful forensics from the area, but neither Bane nor Menstruum is able to discern any use of Ebb in the area, which is strange.

The squad decide that as a feral Ebon Moss may be interested in certain drugs and make contact with a local dealer who does do some business with ferals. He is willing to deal for some good juice. Bane makes contact with Dept of Ebb to enquire of some drugs that could be used to track ferals, they are interested and provide a few vials for his purpose. The business with the dealer does not go well when Menstruum refuses to take a sample of drug when the man becomes suspicious of the situation. Even though she says she can take it in the mouth, the dealer refuses to accept the position and walks. This does not best please the squad.

The remainder of the squad have been following clues that suggest Moss uses the sewers in the sector to move and has led to some idea of where he is. The squad feel the hunt closing in, giving a rush of adrenalin to both Raaj'eel and Finn.

The squad close in on Moss at another murder, but he is unlike any Ebon they know - even feral. He/it is nothing like they've seen. There's no Ebb use and he/it is able to change its shape. They do take the creature and report to Karma. Miss Stone thanks them for their efforts and the need for this situation not to be repeated elsewhere.

Will anyone deal a straight hand to the squad?

It seems they are just pawns in a game they don't know the rules for.

 

BPN 13    [top]
 RED

BPN - REE/RED/000004173842
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Recreation and Entertainment
Training Package - Strike/Any
Monitoring - Third Eye News
Consolidated Bonus - 400/squad

 

On their way back from Downtown the squad are 'asked' to attend an emergency. When the details come through it is at Karla's apartment block. Information states that a Tempest strike is imminent and a Third Eye reporter has been taken hostage, Ms Judy Hicks. The previous squad allocated are believed to be dead as there has been no report from them in some time.

On reaching the scene there is large amount of public interest with Third eye News teams present. As soon as the squad arrive there is shooting from the building into the crowd, they know this is usual Tempest tactics. Just then there is a large explosion as a bomb goes off in a car parked at the entrance to the building, taking the doors and a large portion of foyer with it. Dispersal Shivers are cracking heads to lead the way for Fire Shivers to deal with the fires caused by the explosion

Taking the imitative the squad proceed into the building. There they meet a Wraith Raider whose life is draining away, part of the last squad. He does before he dies inform the squad of who is upstairs and what they're armed with. Getting to the second floor they find a Frother and Human cut to pieces with 10mm rounds and vibro discs near the lift entrance. Monitor proceeds down the corridor to come across a disturbing sight, a Stormer who appears to have shot itself in the head - this can't be right. Just then smoke grenades are thrown into the corridor and everything goes white.

The squad come under fire from inside the building and outside. They keep up the fight but are unable to see what is going on, the smoke obscures even IR. Monitor takes an injury and feels the strength drain from him and falls unconscious. The squad take one of the Tempest agents down but are unable to target the sniper and do not know where the third went to. They report Monitor's condition and make their way to the room the Tempest agents exited. They too see the Stormer and Karla confirms their fears.

Good news from the Shivers down stairs, Ms Hicks is safe and filming the scenes. Not so according to the squad she is lying in a pool of her own blood. Shivers are too late to act on the information and two of the Tempest agents have escaped in the chaos.

Things don't go well afterwards, Monitor is kept under review for an extended period in the Stormer tanks, leaving the squad short on firepower. Hopefully he'll return himself soon?

Reds, you can keep them!

 

BPN 14    [top]
 JADE

BPN - EBB/JDE/000035957842
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Ebb
Training Package - Investigation/Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 250/op

 

On Monitor's release Klank contacts the squad with the promise of being able to put work their way, he'd have to take a cut but is willing to put something their way on good faith to start. Are they interested? It does beat waiting in line in a BPN Hall.

The Dept of Ebb is very interested in solving the rape and murders of four young Ebons in the Uptown area. The Mo is identical, however each killing appears to have a different perpetrator. Further two of the Ebons were SLA operatives. The Dept of ebb is interested in a quick resolution.

The fourth murder has just occurred and the squad are directed to the apartment. The Shivers on guard are none too happy about their duty and show little or no respect for the victim. The 'slops' as they arrive are given cursory courtesy; Shivers inside are caught passing a tinny and a fag around. The Victim, Elysia, is 21 years old and nailed spreadeagled to the floor of her apartment. Barbed wire has been wrapped round her throat and her torso and genitals have been torn and bloodied, there is evidence of teeth and blade marks. Carved into her abdomen is the word 'whore'. Raaj'eel is sickened by the sight of the victim but more so by the reaction of the Shivers and makes his displeasure known. This is the first time they've seen the downside of Shivers, they may have been lucky so far.

As they pick through the forensics and Elysia's apartment, they seem unable to link her to the previous three murders. They focus on her boyfriend but he has nothing in common with the three other victims and has an alibi for the time in questions. He is ruled out later as the semen is found to Human not Ebon. Enquiries of the building security show that it was disabled at some point and there is no record of how the assailant entered or left. The following day another body is discovered, though again no record of the assailants entering or leaving.

Credit checks show that the five Ebons did frequent a number of Ebon exclusive clubs, though not all at the same clubs. It is suggested that Menstruum attend the clubs to see if there is some connection there that might bring success, she plans to attend that evening. Dr Sheen of Shiver forensics has been able to identify a drug marker attached to the semen of all five assailants. It is similar to a cocktail of UV and KS tailored for nuke tendon implants. A batch having been stolen from Karma 2 months ago. A BPN was issued but remained unsolved and finally spiked.

Johnny Quick is the only of squad Steele who did the BPN, he believes his squad mates have been killed and his is worried out his safety now. He thought the whole matter was strange, feeling it was an inside job. Karma access codes were used but when they tried to find out whose they got a D notice. Karla does some checking on the codes and searches the Matrix for any connection between Ebons and Karma employees. It turns out to be a very big list. She also tries Karma's records but they aren't as helpful, but do end up with one name that could be responsible.

Monitor & Bane watch this Martin Franks whilst the others take up other avenues of enquiry. That evening the remaining squad are attacked by some thugs, maybe DN operatives for the equipment they tote. The squad handle them pretty well considering and Shivers pick up the pieces. On a hunch the squad ask for Dr Sheen to do a pharm check on the DN operatives. This aint no random DN gig, the thugs have the same drug cocktail in their blood and have nuke tendon implants (heavy money). Checking out the thugs, turns out they are 'New Faces', a gang taken out by Krosstown Traffic and the gang is no more. There may have been some survivors but not many. The trail keeps leading to Karma, but they've had no success there.

Taking a further chance Karla circumvents the Karma security to obtain internal information about what is going on, it leads to Dr Maxon Hagen. Who is he and what is going on. Jason contacts the squad to let them know there name is on a list and they need to be careful, and any enquiries should be completed 'with an eye to the best interests of SLA'. More cryptic speak, the usual IA stuff, but he says no more than that. The squad arrive home to find their apartments ransacked, and just after Karla had hers redecorated to. The squad don't know really where to turn, Jason is being none too helpful and they can't target anyone for the crimes.

The following day the squad are contacted by Valiant, a Necanthrope. He arranges a meeting in a restaurant and arrives with his vassal. The squad don't really know what to think now, what has a Necanthrope to do with all this. He explains his history with Maxon Hagen, before he became a leading light in Karma, and his enquiries into the death of Sorrow. It seems his anti Ebon feelings go back a long way. Valiant, as an Ebon, was tasked with the investigation of Sorrows murder and his prime suspect was Max. He was prevented from taking matters further as Karma stepped in to protect their prodigy. He informs them that Dark Lament have taken an interest in the resolution of the BPN and will aid where he can, primarily using his SCL codes for them to access information (via his vassal who will accompany them). He asks them to keep their enquiries going even in the face of pressure from Cloak, he will cover them or they will regret it.

The meeting leaves them with a feeling that the sword of Damocles is hanging over them (whoever he was?). Monitor is very confused by the entire matter, who in SLA does he trust as he has two people he trusts tell him differing views. The squad wish to stitch up Martin Franks for the murders and be done with it. Finally they decide to speak with Jason. He is as cryptic with his answers but does tell them that SLA are unlikely to believe their story of Mr Franks being responsible and their enquiries should continue.

Further enquiries by Karla assisted by Valiant's vassal, Ice Deathblade - Brainwaster, reveals the way that the New Faces received their implants. It was channelled through a series of blind corporations to one called 'Hardcore' but the trail ends there. The squad decide to pursue the remainder of the New Faces as they believe they hold the key, either they will set them up to take the fall or something worse could happen. Karla is able to get details of the New Faces former headquarters in Downtown, though it is not thought it is in use any more but it's the only lead they've got. On the way down there, Karla remembers where she's heard the name Hardcore before, it's Maxon Hagen's bodyguard. A check on the Matrix reveals him to be a Stormer with 2 full tours on Dante and rumoured to have full upgrades from Karma - a very dangerous individual. Monitor does have a couple of shaped charges for use should they need to.

Getting there shows it to be a disused market square. Whilst Raaj'eel scouts ahead the others discuss the way forward. They react just in time to an explosive rolled to them from a basement. They chase the culprit but lose him in the building. Just then Raaj'eel comes under attack from grenade launchers, he is able to escape using his Silverback Armour. The squad move around the market but keep getting surprised by attacks from it appears Hardcore himself (they were right). He manages to get around behind them with no great difficulty; they learn his secret when they discover the underground tunnels. They pursue him though the tunnels, but still have difficulty finding him. Raaj'eel meanwhile is concentrating on the grenade launchers.

Following Hardcore in the tunnels, Monitor gets caught by an explosion burying him under a large portion of the central market. Karla finds herself at the wrong end of a Mal Assault Cannon, evening the odds even further. Eventually Bane, Ice and Menstruum corner Hardcore in one of the stairwells but they are taking a considerable pounding. Raaj'eel heads over having taken out his opponents and lends his weight to the fight, but still Hardcore won't drop.

Menstruum returns to Karla's still form for her FEN 603 with hotline round. She returns and takes aim, how long can they others last. Raaj'eel has taken a couple of rounds and can see himself dropping soon and both Bane and Ice are low on Flux.

Just then everything goes well, Menstruum hits and Hardcore's armour freezes, his chestplate also collapse under the mounting damage, he collapses unconscious. Bane takes no chances and fires several times into the armour, making sure he is dead - he doesn't want him coming back.

These four are alive and thankful, Karla is in serious trouble and may struggle to make it and they have no idea abut Monitor (though they've heard noises on the coms). They call in Shivers to rescue them and report on Hardcore's psychological breakdown.

Have they done the right thing, well they're still alive. For now.

 

BPN 15    [top]
 SILVER

BPN - ENQ/SIL/000054852187
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Enquiries
Training Package - Strike/Any
Monitoring - Third Eye News
Consolidated Bonus - 200/op

Klank is able to provide it seems quite a good BPN from within his contacts at Third Eye. Looks like things are on the way up for the squad.

A serial killer called Entropy has been targeting women who work for the Dept of Stock, Shares and Bonds. The method of operation is to call the woman before hand and make threats, within 24 hours the person is killed. Death threats have been made against Genny Adams and the Dept want her protected over the forthcoming 24 hours. Genny has become quite famous via Third Eye after doing some work with them so the BPN has some profile to it and Third Eye are interested in the matter.
The Squad are asked to attend immediately at her offices to start the BPN, they will finish the following afternoon. The 24 hours being complete by that point.

Genny is quite and approachable person, but lays down certain rules about where the squad can be to protect her. She does have contact without her section and will hold meetings during the day when they will not be able to be physically present. The squad agree to certain arrangements, but with Third Eye involvement wish to put the best face forward.

During the day the whole matter is quite relaxed with the squad taking turns on protective duty, it seems one of them has caught her eye. The evening at Genny's goes well and the flirtation continues to no-one's knowledge apart from the two conspirators. The whole evening and morning is very relaxed, this must be the easiest 200c the squad have made.

By the afternoon the BPN is over and Genny is thankful to the squad, and an assignation is planned between the two for later the same week.

Is this the first step to bigger things for the squad, a good name with Third Eye - nothing better?

Who is the romantic in the squad?

 

BPN 16    [top]
 WHITE

BPN - ENQ/WHI/000548562187
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Enquiries
Training Package - Investigation
Monitoring - Third Eye News
Consolidated Bonus - 600/squad

The assignation has been and gone, but there is bad news on the horizon. Genny was killed, it seems the protection was for nought. Entropy acted outside the norms, Dept of Enquiries want them caught and the squad are just the people. And with an unknown personal interest, just the extra impetus the investigation needs.

The squad makes the usual enquiries at her work and home, together with getting details of all the women killed by entropy. There seems to be no real connection between the women except they all work for the Dept of Stocks, Shares and Bonds. Genny had dealings all over her Department and outside occasionally and had recent contact with Third Eye. Her work papers do not contain any information to assist.

Her apartment it is a different story, there are some signs of fight (though its been cleared up). There is also hair in the apartment that doesn't appear to be Genny's, it's sent for analysis. Monitor picks up her diary so see the recent entries, passing it to Bane after a quick look (he has very poor reading ability after all). Bane doesn't think there's anything of interest in it. The squad think that the person who had the fight with Genny might be implicated in her death and hope the hair can lead them to him or her.

After some further digging by Karla, she sees quite a resemblance between all the women killed. They all looked and dressed similarly. It seems that Genny had started quite a fashion statement with her work for Third Eye. She starts to think of searching the Dept's staff records for information that might assist. Most enquiries are getting nowhere and even the DNA of the hair is being delayed. The squad do find out from the autopsy that Genny had had sexual intercourse recently and the partner was not human.

By use of some not so legal means Karla is able to penetrate the Dept's computer records and starts searching the staff and other records. She is able to see that someone has tampered with the personnel records but is unable to find out why and what has been done. Speaking with the Dept's own computer experts, she finds out that someone has made a very good attempt at removing themselves from the records - but who?

The Dept's experts will search payroll records, even if the person doesn't want to appear on personnel they still want to get paid. The name of Kelly Visto comes up with an address. Not surprisingly she isn't there when the squad arrive. Enquiries throw up the area of Rust Alley in Downtown as an associate address.

The squad arrive and look around, there are very few around who wish to become involved with Slops. The squad do find some interesting electrical activity, someone in a block has arranged for a quite substantial electrical supply from the mains. Raaj'eel takes up position opposite the apartment whilst the others close in from other directions (above and below). Raaj'eel sees movement behind the dirty window but is unable to get a shot. The squad come in through the door.

There is a surge of power across the threshold and one of them goes down dazed. The others follow and Raaj'eel jumps across the street to enter by the window. Ice goes down the corridor, again another surge of power and he goes down. Monitor decides enough and goes through the wall into the next room and sees a woman standing in front of a major power unit. Raaj'eel loos to shut off the power but decides against it due to the danger it could cause. Though she takes another squad member down Kelly drops very quickly and is killed. Genny's lover has had revenge.

Afterwards it transpires that Bane was in Genny's apartment, nothing more is said. Though he himself appears unconcerned - still waters run deep?

 

BPN 17    [top]
 BLACK

BPN - SUB/BLK/000000408107        Failed to Complete
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Subversion
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 6000/squad

DETAILS OF THIS BPN ARE CLASSIFIED SCL5
AND SUBJECT TO ‘D’ NOTICE

This is a big step up for the squad. Klank had approached them about doing a Black to gain further respect - well here it is.

The squad contact Karl Farrell for a briefing. He is helpful but to only a degree, unhelpful and sometimes downright evasive others see it as. He informs the squad that after reports of strange happenings from Downtown a squad was despatched to find out what was happening. Only two of the squad of six returned, one alive dragging their dead comrade. After a debriefing session the survivor asked to commit suicide - this was granted. (details of the squad).

He is not forthcoming on details about the squad and what they found, saying that this is all classified. He can give details of the Sector and depth of the mission, ? and 20 levels down near CS3 (ex-war criminals). The BPN must be completed within 7 days or the Sector involved will be sealed and destroyed. The squad must not interact with what is down there unless absolutely necessary, but they must find out what is happening and report back. An advance of 1000c is given to buy what they squad might need for the BPN, including flip.

The squad prepare well and make their way down. They take a day or two to get down to around level 20 when they find something unusual, it could be a real fruit but they are unsure (apple core). Then at one intersection the water stops. They are used to the rain and water in Downtown, but there just isn’t any a pace away - the walls are dry. Some can’t handle this and take some Flip, this helps but it is all very strange. Further down there appears to be an ambient light; Raaj’eel also notices that animal tracks move away from where they are going. The alleyways are also much better and actually bear some resemblance to the maps they have. The light improves until level 24 when torches are no longer needed, and the air. Raaj’eel hasn’t experienced this since Polo.

The whole situation is very strange, Menstruum tries to detect Ebb but unable to and neither is there any discernable power source. More are taking Flip to handle the situation; maybe what they took isn’t going to be enough. The light then darkens, almost like sunset on Polo Raaj’eel thinks. He hasn’t seen the sun since being on Mort. The others don’t really know what he’s talking about.

There is movement ahead, two people approaching - the squad take cover. Raaj’eel stays round the turn of a bend watching via eyestalk. He then breaks protocol and speaks to the woman, who is more than a little surprised to see him. A child hides behind her. There is a brief discussion and he approaches and goes with her down to level 25.

He enters what appears to be a market square, where his presence attracts some attention. There he speaks with an old man, possibly a leader. The conversation is not very helpful as the old man doesn’t want him there or want SLA in any way. Menstruum thinks she can help and approaches. Nothing is gained apart from confirming there are more slops present. The two leave unsure what to do. Some believe they’ve done enough and should leave, agreement is reached to stay overnight and leave tomorrow and make contact with the Dept. That night it ‘snows’. This is probably the last straw for some and makes their minds up to leave.

At communication level they contact Karl Farrell. He does not wish to speak over the air, even via Station Analysis, with Bane and asked if he has completed the BPN then to return now. Tempers are high when they get to the Dept of Subversion. Good grief doesn’t the rain feel good, who would have thought that four days ago.

The squad arrive and Monitor is taken away for debrief as the others sit in Mr Farrell’s office in silence as he works. He seems to pay close attention to his monitor and from a brief glimpse he is viewing Monitor’s questioning with an earpiece. Monitor returns a few hours later.

Mr Farrell then turns on the squad and demands to know what a complete shambles the BPN has been. He thought the squad were supposed to be quite good, but this is bollocks. Bane tries to stick up for the squad but is shut up by Farrell. What he knows is nothing more than he knew before. And as for the deals being discussed by the squad, he is not happy. He seems to know more than a debrief would normally produce and minds race as to how; surely I checked Monitor for implants thinks Raaj’eel. No matter how, Farrell knows and is none too pleased. The squad will be reduced in SCL and must repay the 1000c advance. They must also undertake the BPN again with no payment and SCL increase on offer. This time they will have a communication beacon but again under strict time limit.

Bane and some of the others are fuming when they leave, he asks Karla to look into complaining about his conduct. She’s unsure knowing little about the Dept, but will look into it.

The squad return to level 25, but already know there is nothing there as the alleyways are back to their old selves. Raaj’eel catches two rats to carry out an experiment on if they find the group again. At level 32 they meet the dry walls again, the rats seem to un-mutate (the best description they can think of). At level 35 they reach the market place again, this time planting a headset communicator to listen in for the first day. They hear lots of talk and something mentioned about a David, was that the old man or another leader?

That evening they enter the village to look around. Not much apart from houses and shops - but what is this doing here so far down. Down one level they find a food growing area that seems fed by this ‘natural light’; this is stranger than they could imagine. Raaj’eel is volunteered to stay on a rooftop during the day to see what happens.

He sees mostly village life, which is strange in itself, but works out that this David is one of the children (and thinks he’s narrowed it down to two). The second day brings much the same, except for an incident with one of the children who gets hurt. He thinks David assists and leaves with the child and an adult. Later both children are playing again. Raaj’eel asks to come out that evening as the stress is getting to him and he needs to stretch muscles. That night a child is out, it is also snowing again.

Karla goes into the village and is interrupted by the child - David, with a ‘snowball’. He wonders whether she likes the snow or not? She isn’t sure, it isn’t there anymore. He seems concerned about her armour and weapons, why does she have them? The air is fine and she’ll be ok. As she answers she realises they’ve gone. She takes David back to the squad, it seems he knew of their presence all the time but didn’t tell the others. Both Bane and Menstruum try to detect Ebb without success. The conversation with David is very strange and deals blows to how the squad see the World of Progress - he mentions another who is stronger than him. What is he doing and how, and who is this other person?

The squad say that they are here to find out what is going on and if they don’t succeed others will come, this David doesn’t like. The squad persuade him to come along with his ‘parents’, but they cannot save the others. He agrees. The squad communicate with Farrell and are told to reach level 25 in 1 day or risk their own deaths. They are almost there when time is up; your brothers have come, David says looking at Bane and Ice. David moves some of squad nearer the surface; reality fold?

On reaching the surface, David and his parents are taken away and the squad attend a further debrief - by Jason. The BPN will now be classified and they must never speak about what has happened to anyone, it will also be recorded that they failed. The reduction of the SCL will remain, however it will be 1 point higher in respect of Internal Affairs and Cloak. A good word will also go out to sponsors, but the squad needs to keep their noses clean.

Finally they are to undertake a Platinum BPN, and are to report to Head Office.

 

BPN 18   [top]
 PLATINUM 

BPN - PLT/000000000001
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Head Office
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Classified
Consolidated Bonus - Classified

DETAILS OF THIS BPN ARE CLASSIFIED HEAD OFFICE SCL5
AND SUBJECT TO ‘D’ NOTICE

The squad attend at Head Office; the power from the building is palpable. Mr Slayer works here and everything is clear, sharper than anywhere else; even in Central.

The squad are handed a package to deliver to Dept of Firearms in Central.

The squad arrive without incident and are asked to wait. Shortly afterwards Karla is handed a box, inside of which is a Fen 603. The man is given to understand she lost one on a recent mission; this is a replacement.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The squad take some R&R. The Dept of Recreation and Entertainment contact them; do they wish to check out a new resort hotel on New Paris. Their squad name came up on a random selection. They want the squad to check the place out and report back, it will mean around a week there. Phones go dead as they all head to the Spaceport

 

BPN 19   [top]
 SILVER

BPN - REE/SIL/000095739842
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Recreation and Entertainment 
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Third Eye
Consolidated Bonus - 1000c/squad

Whilst on their R&R the squad are contacted by Third Eye, are they interested in some work while there? Third Eye want to stack some footage of the new hotel complex and want to show how operatives can appreciate the facilities. They also want to interview the squad about the facilities and get some personal views.

The squad are very much interested in the work; being paid to be on holiday doesn’t happen very often. The Third Eye team are also on expenses so free drinks all round for the squad members.

Third Eye set up some inter squad activities; both Brainwasters, the two women etc. During these sessions the members test out the various activities, but are also asked questions about the other squad members (is there more to Third Eye’s interest than meets the eye). The squad do quite well but even so some issues are aired. It seems they do have some things in common after all.

Could this be what the squad needed, some time away to learn about each other and come down from the stress of work. It seems to be working anyway.

 

BPN 20   [top]
 RED

BPN - STA/RED/000005217452
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Station Analysis
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 250c/op

The whole vacation thing is doing well and the members are coining in the expenses from Third Eye; who are generous on this occasion. They have been out on one or two occasions to see New Paris itself and taste its pleasures. What more could you ask.

Whilst spending a quite evening in the hotel the squad identify shooting some distance away; nothing too worrying in itself. The shooting does get closer so the squad decide to take an interest and find out what is happening; it should also go down well with Third Eye if they do well. Station Analysis reports that a number of insurgents are shooting their way to the hotel and have reach its outer perimeter. The Squad decide that they should be able to take them and tool up from their stored equipment. Karla heads to the security office to keep an eye on the cameras and keep the squad informed of activities. Monitor and Bane take station at the front of the hotel awaiting their assailants.

Shortly after pairs of gunmen fire them upon from several directions. The calibre of weapon does not cause them too much concern and they manage to eat away at any advantage the gunmen thought they had. They are just getting into the swing of things when the gunmen withdraw for no reason; well they were getting killed. As they take a clear look around reports come in of an object hurtling towards the hotel from high altitude; it is targeted to land in the front grounds of the hotel.

Not knowing what to expect the squad take some cover as a large sphere drops into the main fountain breaking it. After the dust clears the sphere opens to reveal a large robot or power suit. From their lessons at Meny they are able to clearly identify this as The Thresher. It seems troops were sent in to secure a position prior to the main assault. The Thresher opens up and riddles the front of the hotel with rounds; injuring a number of bystanders including the Third Eye soundman.

The squad are willing to protect themselves but unwilling to risk their lives for others without payment; Karla contacts Station Analysis for a BPN. After some delay a Red BPN is authorised and the squad go on attack; though this could be the worst situation they’ve been in. Monitor and Bane take the fight to The Thresher whilst the others to what they can and hope to survive. It is a long hard fight, punishment is taken on both sides. Monitor and Bane both try to keep out of the way of the main gun but still take damage; Bane is none too pleased as the depleted uranium rounds cause more pain to his deathsuit and will take longer to heal.

By judicious placement of explosives, again, Monitor manages to take part of the leg off. This does not entirely disable The Thresher but does lead ultimately to its demise. After the suit fails the pilot ejects in his pod, leaving a coded detonator. The squad are unable to save the suit but do think they managed to record the signal that set the self-destruct.

With the soundman injured, Third Eye calls it a day in New Paris. The squad are pulled back to Mort for further work. But hey they met a Thresher suit and lived to tell the tale.

Afterwards Bane makes sure that the footage of them fighting The Thresher is aired; there’s not much of it but it’s good.

 

BPN 21   [top]
 YELLOW

BPN - ENV/YEL/000144088842
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Environment
Training Package - Any
Monitoring - Third Eye News
Consolidated Bonus - 400c/op

After the work on New Paris and the hassles of the last BPNs before that, this should be a straightforward Yellow. Retrieve equipment from Downtown; how difficult could it be? Their contact at the Dept, Niles Burns, is able to brief them quite fully and describes where they will be going. The squad prepare for some time down there.

The journey down isn’t too bad, the cab driver takes them quite a way in but does warn them against the gang that operate out of the area; The Flame Lords or Flamers. He says they are heavily armed, nothing too much for the squad to worry about they think. Making their way to the Acropolis Mall they are met with antagonism from some people and others give them a wide berth. A couple of Flamers approach and ask their business here; this is their patch after all and what are Slops doing here. None too keen on the language the squad are not drawn into a fight too one sided and tell the gangers to mind their own business. Anything around here is their business and warn the squad and move away.

As the squad approach the mall two Monarch officers approach. Hoping they can be of help the squad talk to them. The two officers are very jittery and don’t want to be exposed for too long; they are underpowered here and don’t like being on the streets too often. They are themselves disenfranchised with SLA but they have a job; even if the life expectancy is short. They do let the squad know that the mall is inhabited with carrion and a supposed ‘monster carrion’; but that’s only hearsay. As a parting gift the Monarchs let them know Elvis is in the building, and ex war criminal and serial killer; they should watch out for him.

Their tracking equipment takes them down levels of the Mall into the old parking lots and service tunnels. They manage to locate and retrieve the first beacon without difficulty. Moving to the second they pass some oil drums, they explode after the first person passes, covering some of the squad in a toxic chemical that eats their armour. Further chaos ensues as they come under fire from front and rear. The Flamers have not taken kindly to their presence but are taken out easily in the ensuing firefight.

After recovering the second beacon the squad are set upon by a group of carrion; including mutant carrion. These hid in the ruins and rubbish to surprise the squad; the motion detectors did pick up something but not enough for sufficient warning. All survive and the heads of carrion are taken as trophies and for bounty. The squad hole up for the night in one of the ruined machine rooms. During the night two figures approach the door, the squad arise to confront the danger. The two identify themselves as Shivers but refuse to give any further information. The squad aren’t too happy as they were not told of any other SLA presence here. Relations deteriorate when a Shiver taunts Raaj’eel (Nah! Nah! Nah! Nah! Nah!), who is just put off from his aim by Monitor. The squad agree to follow them to their base; the Shivers say the carrion heads are attracting further carrion here.

In the recesses of the lower level car parks a vehicle sits surrounded by dead carrion. The Hammer APC sits quietly, a low thrumming coming from its engine. The squad can see why the Shivers think themselves safe with the firepower a Hammer has. Flip, the leader, introduces himself as a Shiver sergeant. His team aren’t officially here and should not be reported. He cannot identify himself further as he is under restrictions. Not entirely satisfied but unable to do much about it the squad ask if he can help them. He does confirm the presence of the beast and that the Flamers are so heavily due to backing from DN. In large groups the Flamers are dangerous.

The squad head to a different location for the night, without the carrion heads.

The squad do know they are the target of carrion, but their motion sensors give them an advantage and they ambush one group easily.

Not long after Elvis takes after them; seems once one has had a go everyone wants a piece of the action. Elvis is a much more dangerous foe and the squad have to take the matter more carefully. They do succeed but not without severe injury. This is not what a Yellow should be, what is going on here?

The squad manage to escape the clutches of the Acropolis Mall, but not without further run ins with the Flamers and Carrion. They are however too heavily armed for both. With repairs and bullet tax they wonder if they’ve made any money on this one.

 

BPN 22   [top]
 WHITE

BPN - INV/WHI/004975217965
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - Investigation
Training Package - Investigation
Monitoring - Third Eye News
Consolidated Bonus - 250c/op

Klank has had an inside track on this case and knows of the squad’s interest in getting a higher media profile. The work on New Paris did assist but they need more exposure if they’re to get any sponsorship. The squad sign up for the BPN, an investigation into the disappearance of Stephen Brooke a successful presenter on the Alien Sex Channel. There have been recent reports of him beening spotted in downtown and Third Eye has pressed for an investigation - hence the BPN.

There is a strange codicil in the BPN in that there should be no contact with the sponsoring Department until the BPN is completed.

The squad start by checking into Stephen Brooke’s background on the Alien Sex Channel. It seems he was a rising star and has started a show ‘Do You Know Who You’re Sleeping With’ three years ago. It placed people with ‘altered’ sex partners and filmed what happened - not usually with the consent of the main party. It had a large following and has the income stream to deal with any legal issues. Further enquiries show he had runs ins with Shivers and had been reported for violence to women, confirmed also through contacts within 3rd Eye News. He had a lot of enemies but Shivers couldn’t make anything stick (friends maybe). This doesn’t get them far so they check out his condo in Uptown. This has now been re-let and there is no evidence there, security information doesn’t assist and the doorman doesn’t remember anything particular.

The squad also make enquiries with the Shivers and the Sergeant in charge; Sgt McMurdo. His record shows him to be on the rise but he is unavailable to speak with them about his report. The report is clear and factual and does not indicate any issues. Brooke’s body was found dismembered and identified from DNA held on file by 3rd Eye News. The squad press to see Sgt McMurdo but it transpires he’s on a training course from last week. To all it seems strange and Karla confirms by checking the computer systems. The two Shivers that assisted are also unavailable; they’re on a Sleeper mission and uncontactable. Again further complications and Karla has suspicions as the records indicate that they were alternates and took placements after 5 injuries (missions with such injuries are usually scrubbed).

Seems there are some dead ends being created and they are being drawn to reach a conclusion.

The squad look into the original 3rd Eye News report and who he knew at 3rd Eye and had contact with; Krystal Showers is the most prominent and is a weather presenter now. A request is also put in to see the body, held at the Necropolis. Digging within 3rd Eye turns up a connection with ‘Archer’ - but no know other details. On their way to visit the Sector where Brooke was seen the squad are pulled over by a Hammer APC and Enforcer Shivers. Two Dark Finders invite them into a nearby building and it’s warehouse. Seated in the dark is woman, dressed smartly, but they cannot make out any features. A Shaktar then enter and dismisses the Dark Finders and speaks with the squad asking them to do what is in the best interests of SLA and that this should be resolved quickly. He is their friend. The squad leave ever the more confused.

Information on Frame is limited but it’s said he was the only survivor of a Black, suspected to be a member of 8th Moon Pirates, but seems he’s been set up and taken the fall.

Sector 675, where Brooke was seen is an old industrial sector that has seen much better days. The man they’re looking for, Joe Suggs, is said to live nearby. They find him in a bar called Franks, drinking his newfound fame. Stuart is able to get talking to him and he agrees to assist - for a price. Whilst there, they are certain two men in the bar are overhearing their conversation and put the remaining squad on standby. Joe runs them some story about seeing a ghost but knowing it was Brooke; he was using a local Matrix station. Checks by Menstruum and Karla don’t indicate any forensic information; but they collect anyway. Reviewing its operations shows that the ‘ghost’ was interested in communications and powers supplies.

As the squad are leaving two APCs pull up and disgorge two full squads of armed men. Given the firepower targeted against them the squad decide to wait rather than take action. The leader informs the squad that they should stay away from here and not come around. Just keep their noses out of his business. He leaves. Enquiries show he could well be Harold Dean, MIA and presumed dead on Ash in 896. Was highly decorated and had completed several tours on War Worlds before Ash.

The squad don’t really know what to think but they’ve got some irons in the fire. A search of mutilations and Archer in connection with Brooke brings up some interesting information. They themselves were involved in a BPN some time ago when body parts of high ranking SCL figures were found - though they don’t know the link. Archer is a Dr Archer who was known to socialise with Stephen Brooke. Dr Archer worked for Karma until 897 when he formed Seer Technologies. He retired 6 months ago, the same time as Brooke disappeared? Indications are that he and his team were made to disappear. The squad also check out Brooke’s body, decomposed by now (and partly eaten when found) and his DNA checks out. Seems the whole things a sham and they are ready to report as Frame suggested.

That evening the squad are contacted to report to the apartment of Harold Dean, Shivers saw the connection to the squad (as did 3rd Eye). He is badly beaten and cut; his rooms are covered in spray; all for a combat veteran with his skill? Further he is a gibbering wreck; when spoken to he doesn’t make sense and is then dragged away by strong men in white coats. Without answers the Shivers let them go.

That night a message is left for Bane from a ‘friend’. She says she can assist but they need to check their information and follow where it goes no matter; it’s in the best interest of SLA. She says she is Olivia Farmer. She is connected to Frame and a known high flyer within SLA. The squad are still confused over what is expected. Check the information? They’ve done that; but Karla goes back over everything again. This time she finds an error in the DNA codes of Stephen Brooke, a very sophisticated cover up. Also tracking down more information on Dr Archer reveals a connection to his handler in Cloak; Oliver J Le Verne (the name is familiar).

The squad decide to return to sector 675, where Olivia Farmer recently has done some work as well. The squad aren’t too keen; however feel they have little choice. Arriving they find two vehicles leaving with the same goons on board as the last time, but it seems the security measures are still in place. It is difficult to get in and takes the life of Stuart; two grenades don’t help when you’re already bleeding on the floor.

In the basement they find a medical laboratory with the remains of 12 bodies, 3 still alive. The bodies have been mutilated in that their limbs have been removed at the thigh and upper arm. This sickens some and greatly effects Menstruum and Raaj’eel. Both have difficulty viewing the site and turn away. As they watch, some directly others by monitor, one of the two remaining die (a young woman). Karla is sent to assist a further individual but knows that it is hopeless. Not only are the wounds still bleeding but they have been tortured by an expert.

As they watch the story unfold Dr Archer ‘speaks’ with them; he is the last remaining. He tells them some of his story but knows that it is over for now but that he shall return. The power surges then dies as Dr Archer’s body expires.

Outside Bane is met by Jason (Le Verne), they’re contact within Cloak. He was Archer’s handler at Cloak and was responsible for what happened. He has been ‘cut lose’ by SLA. Cloak then contact Bane to say they are on they’re way with a Warrant for Oliver Jason Le Verne’s death. They hear rotors nearby as Jason walks away into Downtown.

Without the warrant such a shooting could be deemed a breach of etiquette and anyway who knows how helpful he could be on the outside?

 

BPN 23    [top]
RED

BPN - WAR/RED/000000488723
SCL - 9
Sponsoring Dept - War
Training Package - Death and Kick Murder
Monitoring - Station Analysis
Consolidated Bonus - 100 c/op

Klank contacts the squad with a highly lucrative Red. He lets the squad know that taking part in this BPN is a bit of a coup, details are sketchy but the recompense is in line with a Black.

They are informed by the BPN that their task is, along with other squads, to deal with the remaining threat that is Tex Trek. The BPN has been issued as a Red as info has come to light that Tex Trek are trying to recover after many years of concerted effort by SLA to wipe them out. The Department of War has been tasked to deal with the threat once and for all. All squads are to meet for a briefing by Dept of War. The squad are tasked with one area of a sewer system to clear and report, they should not without prior agreement enter into any other area as they will find themselves the target.

The squads will enter at the same time and with surprise, however should they wish to scout the area beforehand there is time. Should they be discovered and Tex Trek warned then they will have to take the blame. The squad decide not to scout.

The squad are given a best estimate map of their area, though given Tex Trek’s history the sewer system is bound to be modified. Their first problem is to gain safe entry, not easy with twin 12.7mm cannons pointed your way! They get through with the assistance of new squad member Charly (a mechanic) who has some fancy nano robots to help him [as well as some strange chainsaw attached to a waldo unit?]. Next they meet their main opponents, the Tex Trek robots themselves, though not heavily armed or armoured they still cause havoc amongst the group.

Further in they still keep coming across the robots but also the fixed position cannons, which are taking a higher toll on the squad than they would like. They’re clearing their area but it is taking time.

Part way through the 2nd level a Scarab TT jumps Menstruum. Clinging to her Deathsuit it starts to fire into her. She herself is taking little punishment, however her Deathsuit is starting to die from all the damage. A cunning plan emerges in her mind, lets port out of trouble. Good thinking, poor execution. Unable to concentrate Menstruum takes the Scarab with her, causing big tears in the Ebb around her. Both her and Bane experience more of the Ebb for what it is. On the second attempt she does escape and the Scarab dies, like her Deathsuit will shortly if she can’t heal it.

Most of the Tex Trek equipment does not give them much trouble, they are more annoying than anything else, however the point defence systems are causing major headaches as they can’t reach the core. Even with Charly’s nano spiders they are having difficulty breaking through the perimeter.

On level 3 the squad have more success as they finally make it to the control room, more Tex Treks cause problems as do the men manning the controls. They do overhear some comment about another base but are straight into a fight to take control. After a brief encounter the squad have the control room and are able to take action to shut down the point defences that caused so much problem. They report their success to the man in charge.

They are told to sweep the area and then report topside. On the way back up Raaj’eel mentions that he has heard those point defences guns before. On one of their first BPN’s they were in the sewers when they were fired upon by a similar weapon. This is also reported and the squad are told to wait further instruction.

A short while later there is a deafening whine of turbine engines and a dropship appears behind the buildings heading their way. Out gets a small squad and General Martin from the Department of War. He is very interested in their information and wants them to join him now to kill off the Tex Trek insurgency. The Squad are not best pleased, recovering from injuries as they are, however they don’t really have a choice. The General takes a keen interest in Monitor’s MALL Assault Cannon, a very keen interest. So much so that he request the weapon be handed over for study to the Department. In its place Monitor will receive, for field-testing, the FEN AR Long with grenade launcher. FEN have found that the normal AR is underpowered when it comes to heavier armours and developed the Long version to give greater mussel velocity and therefore penetrating power. It is just been developed in small numbers at present and some serious field trials would assist the Department in its assessment of the weapon.

The drop ship reaches the nearest building to the sewers that is capable of taking its weight; the squad are cleared to the ground and nearby enter the sewer system. Raaj’eel leads them to where they were shot at and Tia died. It is a huge convergence sewer which has a number of point defence systems. Raaj’eel takes point but takes a few hits before he calls the way ahead clear. He requests that should serious fighting occur that he not be first in given his current state, he will however scout ahead.

He leads the squad further into the sewers and into an area that is completely different to the normal structure. SLA sewer systems are made from large pre-caste concrete, this is made from much small coloured blocks (bricks). Some investigation leads to a number of tunnels into the wall, most are blocked by falling debris. Monitor considers that some well-placed charges could bring down a large part of the ceiling. Once entering the small maze of tunnels the squad are set upon by further Tex Trek robots, but they also are exposed to a black gelatinous fluid which is exploded onto their armours. This fluid sticks and burns with intense heat, causing not only pain but also damage to the armour itself. Raaj’eel’s jet pack is exposed and Monitor rips it off, as the possibility of it exploding is too much to think about.

They make their way to the main tunnel where they are confronted by a cavernous hall and a lake of this black fluid. On a dais at the end is a control centre. They take the control centre but not before some more casualties and not before realising the Tex Trek operative has a dead man’s switch. The squad beat a hasty retreat dragging their squad with them, Monitor blows the ceiling as the first explosion goes off inside. If it all goes up then they are still in some serious trouble. However Monitor has done a good job of protecting their backs and all they get caught by is the draught of debris and dust.

They hope that is the end of Tex Trek, but what was that weird place and what was that weird black stuff?

Monitor sadly hands in the MALL and gets his FEN AR Long.

 

 

 

 

 

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