Conveyex Heist

[Underguard]

A man in uniform approaches the Conductor's perch, holding a datapad; the cargo manifest. The hovertrain was due to make a series of stops while offloading it's cargo. Some of it standard deliveries, some of it far more precious. As the aide makes their way up, they walk past several armed and armored security forces from Northern Gun. Hired professionals to keep the cargo safe. The aide makes it into the Conductor's room to find the Conductor reviewing the route. "Captain, the shipping manifest. As requested, a security detail has been placed throughout the cargo area with access restricted. The civilian cart is secured with passengers finishing boarding. We have one more secure item being loaded and will be ready for departure at the specific time." The aide states as the Conductor takes the manifest.

"Good work. Make sure security services are prepared for potential raiders along the route. Our route has six stops before we reach our final destination. The cargo making it all the way there is paramount." The captain states as the aide nods, stepping forward. "Forgive me, but what is so important that? Are we that sure of a raid?" The aide asks as the captain laughs. "The client paid a considerable amount to keep that secret. When someone pays that much to keep something on the down-low, expect trouble." The captain responds as the aide nods, stepping back and not asking more questions. Whomever the client was, they wanted their cargo to get there and were paying top dollar to ship it.

The aide returned to his rounds, double checking with security and the loaders before overseeing the final passenger boarding before take off. One hour, 15 minutes. The aide thought, timing out their departure time from the hub. Runs like this always made everyone on edge.

[Underguard]

Location: Manistique
Weather: Cloudy (20* Celsius/68* Fahrenheit)
Time: 9:00am

The Spooks are able to gather some basic, and not so basic information on Hover Trains but not specifics as each train's manifest is locked down. Lahz finds that his NGME card alone doesn't get him more information without some additional sweet talking. Lahz also determines that cargo manifests and shipping are locked in weeks in advance, so the Spooks are unable to simply rent out a box car with their own faux cargo. However, passenger carts take new patrons up until departure assuming the train isn't full, and most of them aren't.

The Spooks arrive in Manistique a day before the Train is scheduled to leave and scope out the area. The Train Station is a behemoth with several Hover Trains standing by, uncoupled and powered down while the next departure readies itself. From here the Spooks are able to observe the trains and finalize any plans they may want to do. The passenger carts are near the rear of the train with the box cargo coupled closer to the front. Each of the box cargo carts are huge and seem to have a small security detail for them. The business inclined can tell that Northern Gun likely cares more about protecting the cargo than the passengers in the more dire of circumstances.

The Spooks have the day to finalize their plans and observe and search for last minute intel. They must secure passage, or determine the best way to gain passage before their target train leaves.

What are your intentions?
GM Note: The target Train leaves at 9a the next day which gives the Spooks just under 24hrs.
If you want to acquire more details about the specific train, some skill rolls will be required.
If you want to observe the current trains departing and garner more than basic information, some skill rolls will be required.

Lahz:
Vheld:
Mierin:
Wayne:
Lynch:
Meg:
Orrucks:

[Lahz]

Perception [51%]: 1d100: [11] = 11 [+15% involving Electronics or Machines]
JiC D20: 1d20: [17] = 17 :
JiC D100: 1d100: [94] = 94
Telemechanics [100%]: 1d100: [56] = 56

Conditions: Telemechanics (0 ISP, Constant, 5ft, 100%), Mind-block Auto-Defense (0 ISP, Automatic), Sense Supernatural Evil & Magic Energy (1900ft if using magical or psionic powers, 900ft if NOT using powers), Radiate Nature [Weariness, Wariness] (100ft to psychics, 12ft to non-psychics), Roadrunner Power Armor (135/135 MB), Sixth Sense (Cannot be surprised by a sneak attack)

ISP: 231/231 ISP

---

On the ride up, Lahz will give a very basic primer on Hover-trains ... very basic, "A hovertrain is a series of independent hover platforms, each with its own hover systems but reliant on a powerful hover-locomotive for forward propulsion. When the thing gets moving, it becomes a modular transportation setup that can float over rough terrain, shallow bodies of water (ponds, marshland and streams), obstacles, debris, crashed vehicle-type roadblocks ... even scrub and small trees that might stop conventional land-based trucks. Hovertrains cannot cross deep water (20 feet/6.1m or greater), they are too damn heavy and sink, I understand part of our route will cross-water ... but I guess it's just shallow in those areas. They have armed "Defense" or "Weapon" cars have pretty standard dimensions, Height: 28 feet, Width: 36 feet, Length: 80 feet, Weight: 30-40 tons fully loaded ... they sometimes like to disguise these as Boxcars and Passenger-Cars ... so really the Width: 36 feet, and Length: 80 feet, are going to be pretty standard. We are going to be inside the various cars .... You are probably not going to handle things from extreme range. Plan accordingly. Rifles might not even be allowed, though Lynch, you can put on a pretty face ... or something with authority and try and see if you can get a Special Exception and convince ... someone."

Seeing as (per GM Post), they seem to have arrived 1 day in advance, Lahz will tap his comms, "So, do a couple folks want to rotate to watch loading of the Train? See if anything is handled with special care ... our target is allegedly something stolen from a CS Lab, and being smuggled on the down-low. So not sure if it would be in a high security area and folks paid to look another way, or in a general area and disguised ... It's a tough job, that's why they come to us, for problem solving right?"

Arriving at the Station the day-of departure though, Lahz's intelligence gathering is literally 'walk along the train front to back, reach out and tap each car with 1 finger (as-needed) and use Telemechanics [RUE Pg 183, Range: By touch or up to 5 feet (1.5 m) away, Saving Throw: None, 0 ISP for Lahz] ... to determine the total # of Cars, and for each simply determine: Defense Car, Cargo Car, or Passenger Car.

Because the size of the train is set at that stage, theoretically this gives a good idea of the overall landscape [# of Cars, and in what Order] ...

Tentative Plan

Summary for GM:
1) Check the Cryo-Container we were given
2) Go see the Psychic (if there are no recording/transmitting devices) -- Get her to share the vision and any images (since WE have a cryo-container now, it may be easier to know whether one of those appears in said vision)
3) Group Vehicle Modifications (estimating 4 days, if more time is needed then he will not attempt in this time window because the vehicles wont be delivered for 1 week, and anything further cuts things too close)
4) Repair, Repair, Repair, Repair, then, take Group-Transport from Merctown to Lazlo --- GM Please advise if Ship cannot be repaired, and new missiles are acquired so we are leaving with full kit.
5) Visit NG Store with his NGCME Card --- Download/Purchase Specifications for Hover Trains as 'study materials' for a *** Northern Gun Certified Mechanical Engineer
6) [Have Lynch do this incognito] Buy 100 MD Box/Trunk -- Decoy/Empty "Thing @ least some of Spooks are 'Guarding' and reason for being on Train"
6) Buy tickets and take hover-train from Lazlo to Manistique (so that we can get familiar with these trains)
7) Buy additional tickets for target trip ... Manistique --> Lazlo (?)
8) Day-of --- Take Train back to Manistique from Lazlo (this will also take Spooks back to their own vehicle if necessary ... otherwise we can radio the Robot Crew to return and meet us @ Merctown)
9) Pick up Magic Mace when we get back to town.

[Vheld]

JIC: 1d20: [15] = 15 , 1d100: [25] = 25
PER: 1d100: [52] = 52 vs. 79%

Once in Manistique, Vheld keeps his minions in incognito mode. Birga he will assign to guard duty about the team’s main vehicle. Really the only place for a plasma demon unless we need an artillery strike. One and two will remain invisible, floating behind Vheld, while Bakir transforms to mist and does the same. Skarrah will shape-change into a raven and fly behind the shifter, with Sil serving as his mount as always. When they arrive, Vheld will look vaguely irritated and interrupting his studies but at the same time looking forward to a change of scenery. He’ll listen to Lahz’s briefing impassively, but when the psi-tech asks for volunteers to stake the place out Vheld will nonchalantly raise his hand. ”Sil and I can remain discreet in phantom form, and I don’t normally need a lot of sleep. Happy to take part of the night shift.” Otherwise, the shifter doesn’t have much to contribute.

[Orrucks]

Perception: 1d100: [75] = 75 60/% +20% on Perception rolls to determine if an explosive device or ordnance is “live” or a “dud”
JIC: 1d20: [8] = 8 / 1d100: [72] = 72

While the lack of information he could gather on his own is mildly irritating, the Grackle takes what he can get and gets more from Lahz and together gives him plenty to work with and he thinks about what all he'll be bringing before settling on just two smoke grenades and a K-hex plastique cube that he forgets to disclose before they leave.

"I ain't gots none of those fancy scopes, but I'd think I can tell a guy with somethin' ain' s'posed ter." He answers the call for volunteers for recon.

Orrucks takes his time to get to know the area; mapping out the path of the cargo-packing vehicles and paths of least resistance that people walk or maybe run if they needed to be there in a hurry in his head. The better he knows the ways traffic flows, the less likely extra lives get involved he doesn't to count if something happens.

The Grackle Tooth being a Grackle Tooth might at some point find himself among conversation which surely can't be avoidable ad he finds himself in it, staying with the topic best he can without giving away what he does, exactly why he's there, and who he's with. He acts like he's supposed to be there and as present as a Grackle is wont to be. More information on his train would probably only be a unlikely bonus.

Trust: 1d100: [8] = 8 /75%

[Lynch]

Perception: 1d100: [89] = 89 /49%
JIC: 1d20: [18] = 18 ; 1d100: [100] = 100

Current ID: Lynch

Lynch thinks over the information provided by Lahz. Hmm...good information but nothing on the security systems employed by the train...should try to get into the personnel records. See who I could impersonate. Lynch gives a smirk as he thinks of a way to gather more information. "I'll take a look at the RF in the area. Should be able to find the security frequencies and key card usage. Might be able to clone them. I'll also check out their employee data base. See if there's anything we can exploit.

Lynch will find a quite area near the train and set up his laptop and spectrum Analyzer. Lynch will get a baseline recording of the RF spectrum to see which frequencies are being used. Lynch will record for an hour while he plays on his laptop. The scan should reveal the frequency that the train radios, keycards, and other wireless signals are using.

While the scan is running Lynch will use his laptop to gain access to the personnel files of the trains employees. Lynch is looking for general information and performance reports.

Radio: Basic 1d100: [27] = 27 /94% (record and analyze local RF spectrum)
Computer Hacking 1d100: [35] = 35 /64% (obtain personnel files on train employees)
Undercover Ops 1d100: [66] = 66 /89% (if approached Lynch will claim to be confirming radio traffic in the area in order to set his squads radios to an unused section of the RF spectrum to avoid interference)

[Wayne Northblade]

Perception: 1d100: [86] = 86 /49%
JIC: 1d20: [4] = 4 / 1d100: [83] = 83

So this is Manistique…so far, unimpressive. I’ll hold my judgement until I try the food. Wayne listens to the intel that Lahz provides and then chimes in with his own plans. ”I’ll need to outfit myself more appropriately if we are to fit in on the train. I’ll be hitting this nation’s excuse for an arms district and will return immediately thereafter.”

Wayne heads into town and looks for the following items:

N-F20A Medium Force Field – uncommon

Rarity Rolls

Appraise Goods: 1d100: [41] = 41 /54% - PASS
Anthropology: 1d100: [52] = 52 /79% - PASS
Barter: 1d100: [77] = 77 /59% - FAIL
Find Contraband: 1d100: [49] = 49 /59% - PASS
Invoke Trust/Charm & Impress: 1d100: [53] = 53 /25% - FAIL
Lore – Demons & Monsters: 1d100: [49] = 49 /84% - PASS
Research: 1d100: [33] = 33 /79% - PASS
Streetwise: 1d100: [89] = 89 /48% - FAIL

Streetwolf Combat Trench Coat – common
Streetwolf Armored Executive M.D.C. Business Suit Coat – common
Streetwolf M.D.C. Combat Pants – common


If he’s able to find these things, he’ll swap out of his armor and into some more normal seeming clothing, in order to blend in on the train better.

Once outfitted, he takes whatever watch shift is assigned to him. When not on watch, he goes to the train station to figure out how to procure tickets.

[Lithium Meg]

Perception 1d100 /24%: [21] = 21
JiC 1d20: [18] = 18
JiC 1d100: [72] = 72

Current: Sixth Sense, Current Guise:

So, the first job with the Spook Squad will be quite a challenge. Well, she did not join the best to get cold feet now. She listens to Lahz lay out the layout of the train, scratching notes in a small notebook. She intends to memorize and leave one at the base when they get going on the job. An important skill she learned while running with the Syndicate is never to leave behind physical evidence. The train ride up to their intended target will help them get familiar with everything. Her will goal will be to scout out the train they will hit and see if she can locate the bomb. She is loath to get near it, but she also hates the idea of it going off and killing her later down the road with its magic-eating disease.

"I guess I shall use my skills of being sight unseen to scope out the contraption we're looking for. Maybe bribe, browbeat, or whatever information I can glean.

She perks up at the idea of shopping for new clothes. "I'll join you, Wayne. I think I'll go up business class and return to Mercenary Chic when we pull the job. Though with a different face.

Streetwolf Light Executive Trench Coat – common
Streetwolf Light Executive Business suit – common
Streetwolf Executive Slacks – common

And once she is done clothes shopping, she will get something with a little more bang for the trip back will looking totally unsuspicious:

TX-A1 Concealed Shotgun - very rare

Rarity Rolls

Appraise Goods 1d100 /60%: [100] = 100 - Pass
Seduction 1d100 /82%: [31] = 31 - Fail
Find Contraband 1d100 /53% (w Black Market Channels): [93] = 93 - Pass
Streetwise 1d100 /50%: [21] = 21 - Fail
Invoke Trust/Intimdate 1d100 /97%: [31] = 31 - Pass

[Underguard]

Location: Manistique
Weather: Cloudy (20* Celsius/68* Fahrenheit)
Time: 8:00am

During the day of overwatch, Lahz is able to identify four defense cars, eight cargo cars and two passenger cars. One defense car near the lead, one in the rear, then one in the middle of the cargo cars and one separating the cargo and passenger cars for a total of 15 cars being hulled by the main transport head. The Train that departs appears to have at least four flying power armors actively flying with it as it leaves. The next train being loaded has a visible total of eight power armors that operate in shifts in the otherwise heavily guarded train station. Lahz can easily see it'll be nearly impossible to get close to the cargo cars without being spotted.

Orrucks walks the public paths of the Trains and goes as close as he can to the cargo cars without arousing suspicion, though a pair of armored guards do seem to notice him. Fortunately when approached, the Grackle is able to deter them with the provided tickets for the following day's trip though the guards guide him away from the cargo cars towards the passenger cars. Meg and Wayne both take the day and instead go shopping for some basic and common gear that they can take onboard the train. Each acquiring a pair of Streetwolf cloths. Wayne is able to track down a Naruni Forcefield from a black market vendor with the help of Meg who is unable to find a concealed shotgun. [Nat 100 is a crit fail, not pass. You passed Seduction and Streetwise but listed it as fail, failed Find Contraband but listed it as a pass.]

Lynch takes the information provided by Lahz and then sees about passively scanning radio frequencies in the area. Something Lynch can readily identify is that the cargo cars appear to be dead zones. When someone enters them, the radio frequency that he had been tracing completely vanishes. Most of the radio frequencies are encrypted though Lynch is able to at least record them [Need Cryptography to try cracking them; there are three frequencies that are encrypted, three rolls. There is one unencrypted frequency Lynch can immediately access, it being a public one.] Lynch is able to gain personnel files on the Train Conductor, the wait staff in the personnel cars, and the dock workers. However Lynch finds that none of the cargo cars security detachments are listed as anything but "Security Personnel" with various numbers and no other identifiers assigned to them. [Security Personnel -- 1-A1, 1-A2, 1-A3, ... 1-A10, 2-A1 etc etc.] Lynch does find himself approached before the days end and while the guards appear skeptical of his answer, they ultimately leave him alone.

Overnight Vheld watches the train with Silhouette and does see a heavily guarded delivery take place at around 2am. As Vheld attempts to get closer, his peripheral catches the eye of what appear to be Psi-Stalkers on the security team actively sniffing out potential threats that deter him from getting much closer alone. Ronan and Mierin scope out the place overnight with Vheld but don't get much closer than Vheld does to avoid suspicion before their train ride the following day. The next morning comes quickly and the team finds themselves on the platform an hour before departure ready preparing to board. The passenger cars are being loaded and most of the cargo cars are sealed and secured. One of them is still doing a final inspection, but a passing glance shows it to be holding NG equipment.

What are your intentions?
GM Note: Train boarding is underway. You have an hour before departure.

Lahz:
Vheld:
Mierin:
Wayne:
Lynch:
Meg:
Orrucks:

[Orrucks]

Perception: 1d100: [34] = 34 60/% +20% on Perception rolls to determine if an explosive device or ordnance is “live” or a “dud”
JIC: 1d20: [15] = 15 / 1d100: [49] = 49

He has his hands up no higher than his head sits on his body when he is met the guard more reactionary than defensively and remains as calm and more or less innocent as he already was momentarily. "My bad guys, was lookin fer mah car an' don' musta missed it."

Giving them zero hassle, Orrucks goes in the direction he is actually supposed to go and kind as a Grackle Tooth ever is, bids the guard that caught him getting to close to where he is not supposed to be a fine rest of their day. If or when he meets up with other Spooks he tells them, "These fine folks workin' here are kind enuff folk and real helpful."

If he comes across Meg or Wayne in their near cloths he only smirks with, "Why's you all gussied up? I fergit somethin' formal and now I look dumb?

As he boards the train he acts like he isn't there for questionable reasons and even offers a hand to some of the strangers that appear to need the assistance or cracks a joke about himself being a bit as he moves in whatever way necessary to not be unnecessarily in the way of the boarding people.

[Lahz]

BACK << DEF4 -- P2 - P1 -- DEF3 -- C8 C7 C6 C5 -- DEF2 -- C4 C3 C2 C1 -- DEF1 --[[LEAD-ENGINE]] >>>> FRONT


Perception [51%]: 1d100: [49] = 49 [+15% involving Electronics or Machines]
JiC D20: 1d20: [12] = 12 :
JiC D100: 1d100: [47] = 47
Telemechanics [100%]: 1d100: [81] = 81

Conditions: Telemechanics (0 ISP, Constant, 5ft, 100%), Mind-block Auto-Defense (0 ISP, Automatic), Sense Supernatural Evil & Magic Energy (1900ft if using magical or psionic powers, 900ft if NOT using powers), Radiate Nature [Weariness, Wariness] (100ft to psychics, 12ft to non-psychics), Roadrunner Power Armor (135/135 MB), Sixth Sense (Cannot be surprised by a sneak attack)

ISP: 231/231 ISP

---

Lahz will get whatever info the others have to turn in, then snaps a screen-image of the open cargo car (OOC: is it the one where the high-security delivery was previously made? which Car is it?) as he spends a couple minutes watching the final loading (OOC: are they loading with Droids? Automated systems? or Workers?). *Let's see, if they are going to have Droids handling loading or other automated tasks on the Train, I can get access to one of those via possession ... do some recon that way ...* He taps the radio, "Ok folks, we're gonna hop aboard. Lynch, what name are you using so we can all say we are on ________'s security team."

He boards the train clad in a large reversible trench coat over the lightest PA on the market (his weaponless 'Roadrunner' PA). The Psi-Tech is armed with a heavy looking pistol, and a knife, but no long-arms. He boards from the last passenger car [P2] so that he can look over the spacing and where people are seated, but will move up to get seats in several of the rear-rows of the 1st passenger car [P1].

If/when provided with info on the radio frequencies that Lynch previously located, Lahz will try to decrypt them:
Cryptography [75%]: 1d100: [59] = 59 , 1d100: [98] = 98 , 1d100: [43] = 43
Electronic Countermeasures [66%]: 1d100: [13] = 13

Tentative Plan

Summary for GM:
1) Check the Cryo-Container we were given
2) Go see the Psychic (if there are no recording/transmitting devices) -- Get her to share the vision and any images (since WE have a cryo-container now, it may be easier to know whether one of those appears in said vision)
3) Group Vehicle Modifications (estimating 4 days, if more time is needed then he will not attempt in this time window because the vehicles wont be delivered for 1 week, and anything further cuts things too close)
4) Repair, Repair, Repair, Repair, then, take Group-Transport from Merctown to Lazlo --- GM Please advise if Ship cannot be repaired, and new missiles are acquired so we are leaving with full kit.
5) Visit NG Store with his NGCME Card --- Download/Purchase Specifications for Hover Trains as 'study materials' for a *** Northern Gun Certified Mechanical Engineer
6) [Have Lynch do this incognito] Buy 100 MD Box/Trunk -- Decoy/Empty "Thing @ least some of Spooks are 'Guarding' and reason for being on Train"
6) Buy tickets and take hover-train from Lazlo to Manistique (so that we can get familiar with these trains)
7) Buy additional tickets for target trip ... Manistique --> Lazlo (?)
8) Day-of --- Take Train back to Manistique from Lazlo (this will also take Spooks back to their own vehicle if necessary ... otherwise we can radio the Robot Crew to return and meet us @ Merctown)
9) Pick up Magic Mace when we get back to town.

[Lithium Meg]

Perception 1d100 /24%: [80] = 80
JiC 1d20: [6] = 6
JiC 1d100: [72] = 72

Current guise:

Lithium was disappointed she could lay hands on a concealed shotgun. That would have gone a long way to helping if things went bad for the mission. She would just have to rely on her wits, looks, and laser pistol held in a shoulder holster under her executive jacket. If worse really did come to worse, she would start biting people’s faces off. She hung with Lynch; the others were part of his ‘protection’ detail. Just for the trip, she carried her armor in a duffle bag, giving any observing or interested members of security that she so totally trusted their ability to keep the bad people off their train.
Lithium found it hard to repress her smirk.

If he comes across Meg or Wayne in their near cloths he only smirks with, "Why's you all gussied up? I fergit somethin' formal and now I look dumb?

” Oh Orruck, baby, you always look perfect wherever you go.” Having the big tough standing with them would deter a lot of trouble if someone were to be looking for it with them.

When Lahz makes the call over the comms, Lithium gets ready to board and find their spots to have a nice ride on the train.

[Vheld]

JIC: 1d20: [2] = 2 , 1d100: [28] = 28
PER: 1d100: [12] = 12 vs. 79%

Vheld will continue with his policy of staying far away from the train and its contingent of psi-stalkers. Between his magic and Sil’s phantom form, getting into hard-to-reach places to perform some easy surveillance is a simple matter. Vheld will report in his findings via radio and settle in to wait, meditating here and there to maintain his energy. I rather like the quiet. Once the train is finished boarding and ready to go, Vheld will direct Sil to use her flight talisman, and the shifter himself will use his ring of invisibility, to begin shadowing the train from a comfortable distance.

[Wayne Northblade]

Perception: 1d100: [45] = 45 /49%
JIC: 1d20: [7] = 7 / 1d100: [6] = 6

"Fine clothing befitting a fine gentleman. And I suppose you look nice too." Wayne chirps at his newfound squadmate, Meg. As he pulls his trench coat over his business jacket, he grins at the thought of his harness' easy access.

The guns

, check.

The swords

, check.

The canteen

, check.

He heads back to the train station and runs across his other squadmate, Orrucks.

If he comes across Meg or Wayne in their near cloths he only smirks with, "Why's you all gussied up? I fergit somethin' formal and now I look dumb?

” Oh Orruck, baby, you always look perfect wherever you go.”

"Didn't you hear? There's a dress code for the dance, sweetheart. You'll need at least a bow tie." Wayne jokes with the very large reptilian.

Waiting on the platform for the train, Wayne tries his hardest and fails anyway to not look disturbed about his uncovered face. This is the mask. This is the disguise. As a distraction, he runs his hands over his forearms, feeling the cabled steel texture of his cyber-armor beneath his clothing.

When they finally hop on the train, Wayne adds himself to Lynch's security detail, silently observing the train car's passengers, layout, and anything else that sticks out.

[Underguard]

Location: Manistique
Weather: Cloudy (20* Celsius/68* Fahrenheit)
Time: 9:15am

[All Aboard the Boisterous Express]
BACK << DEF4 -- P2 - P1 [Spooks] -- DEF3 -- C8 C7 C6 C5 -- DEF2 -- C4 C3 C2 C1 -- DEF1 --[[LEAD-ENGINE]] >>>> FRONT

The Spooks find themselves boarding the cars at different paces. Lynch enters with Lahz, Meg and Orrucks. Meg and Orrucks exchanging pleasantries while Lahz tries to organize with Lynch. Mierin, Ronan and Wayne follow suit and board the train, the group finding themselves sitting relatively close by. Orrucks, Wayne and Lahz all notice that most of the train's occupants are relatively normal looking folk, a few of the more common D-Bees can be seen, though one seems to stick out. A person clad in obvious Mystic Knight armor sits close to the connecting door to the third Defense car. He also is holding what appears to be a long bag capable of holding a sword, rifle or other such item closely. The rest of the passengers are all wearing simple protective armor; the rumor mill is abuzz about trains experience raids so they most appear at least somewhat prepared. There is also two families that are in plain clothing, though the children are in body armor of sorts. Vheld is nowhere to be seen on the train, though the mage watches them board from afar, sitting safely on Sil's back and peering through a wall.

Crow was one of the first to board, as these passenger cars have open seating, and the knight wanted to take a spot near the connecting door. He knew he had several cars between him and his target. Something else caught the Mystic Knight's eye, the large Grackle-Tooth and party that was with him. They sat nearby each other, just a few rows down from him and he certainly noticed a few of them notice him. Possible competition, or allies, only time would tell.

The train departs at 9a on the dot, with a large metal doorway opening leading out of the train station. Vheld follows from a safe distance and is able to communicate with the Team when needed. From the outside, Vheld notices that there are definitely two flying Power Armors at the head of the train that make several laps around the train, though they don't seem to notice (or immediately respond to) Vheld. [Any orders for your minions?]

About 15 minutes underway, the intercom bellows. "ATTENTION ALL PASSANGERS. YOU ARE FREE TO ROAM AROUND THE PASSANGER CABINS. IF YOU REQUIRE ASSISTANCE, PLEASE FLAG DOWN ANY OF OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF. THE BAR IS OPEN AND FOOD WILL BE SERVED. OUR NEXT STOP OF THREE IS IN FOUR HOURS." The intercom then clicks off and the Spooks notice one armed guard at either end of the passenger car in armored fatigues with the Northern Gun logo. There are several wait staff and passengers moving around the cabin. Ronan looks towards Mierin and Wayne. "I'm going to grab us some drinks, maybe distract the guard if I can. Make it easy for some of you to slip through to the package." Ronan says in a hushed tone. There is enough commotion and conversation on the train that idle talk is relatively hard to hear between booths.

What are your intentions?
GM Note: Thank you for labeling the train configuration like that, Lahz.
I can provide maps of each train section as needed.

Lahz:
Vheld:
Mierin:
Wayne:
Lynch:
Meg:
Orrucks:
Crow:

[Crow]

Perception:21%(46)
JIC:4
Conditions:
Sixth sense (2)





Crow watches the group with interest. He knew there were other parties interested in the device. Now he needed to know who they worked for and their end contract. Perhaps he could use them to complete his goals.

He was more than confident that own skills could finish the job. But there were too many variables for his liking, and he still needed a way to dispose of the device once it was safe.He lays a hand on Otimač, the cool touch of the metal focusing his thoughts. "Allies or Enemies, it's up to them to choose a path".

As Crow stands several of the passengers instinctively flinch back. The Orders reputation creating a bubble of silence around the average sized man, as he walks over and takes a seat next to the group of mercs. Addressing whoever looks more like the leader "My intuition tells me we may share a common interest. Do we need to dance around, or can we get straight to the point?" He looks them all in the eyes from behind his helmet, his hands never leaving the bag.

”Not much room to dance on this train, so I suppose the latter. You wait here. I need to have a chat.”

Crow watches the white haired man turn to his partner. Those are the leaders then.
He wasn't sure how to explain the tug he'd felt drawing him towards this particular group of killers. Relying on it left him feeling naked to a hostile universe. But he'd come to trust it when it all the same. Noise in the cabin returns to previous levels, as the more well mannered people tried to regain their composure. The children returning to their game of wearing down their parents brittle patience. Memories of Freehold flooded in unbidden. Biking up and down the streets with his brother. To walking those same streets now buried in rubble and strips of humanity. Old death and spirits lurking behind every empty eyed building. Bringing his attention back to the present. Crow looked at those seated next to him a bit closer. Trying to discern who they are and why this woman was carving him up with her eyes.
A possible Psi-stalker? Interesting.

[Orrucks]

Perception: 1d100: [12] = 12 60/% +20% on Perception rolls to determine if an explosive device or ordnance is “live” or a “dud”
JIC: 1d20: [4] = 4 / 1d100: [51] = 51

As the train gets underway, Orrucks doesn't seem to have a care who around him, though he does know to keep an eye out for someone with a man portable biological weapon in a brief case of some sort. He relaxes back in his seat and crosses his large scaly arms. While only individual does catch his attention, he gives them no acknowledgement. Normal day even if it's not so normal.

fifteen minutes later, like he were waiting much longer for permission to stand, nearly immediately after hearing he was free to move around, Orrucks abruptly stands up with a stretch and a slight crocodilian growl. He looks in the general direction of the other Spooks, "You guys think this train got a beer?"

"Looks like ahm not the only one." He says wit a smirk as Ronan says he's doing the same thing he is, ignoring the second part of what he says.

The interruption from the Mystic Knight suddenly joining the conversation gets his gaze that is nothing short of What the hell are you? He doesn't say anything to him and starts up the car in search of the drink he already mentioned. If any of the other passengers aboard get his attention while he is in pursuit of a drink, he gives them their attention in typical Grackle-Tooth fashion.

[Lithium Meg]

Perception 1d100 /24%: [8] = 8
JiC 1d20: [12] = 12
JiC 1d100: [66] = 66

As Crow stands several of the passengers instinctively flinch back. The Orders reputation creating a bubble of silence around the average sized man, as he walks over and takes a seat next to the group of mercs. Addressing whoever looks more like the leader "My intuition tells me we may share a common interest. Do we need to dance around, or can we get straight to the point?"

Lithium lifted a neat eyebrow at the man's brashness in what looked like Mystic Knight armor. She would have joined Orruck for a drink and maybe looking for a mad bomber and the device, but now this caught her attention. After all, her cover is a bodyguard, and it would do no good now to give it up at this moment.

“I was thinking of getting a bite to eat, but I’ll wait now.” Lithium says, noting the Knights fingers, joints, neck…

[Wayne Northblade]

Perception: 1d100: [77] = 77 /49%
JIC: 1d20: [8] = 8 / 1d100: [45] = 45

I feel naked. Wayne enters the car alongside Rook and Queen, striking a well-composed figure and fit for such a physically unattractive man. What was I thinking, no covering. Anonymity is survival. Looking around the train, he sees very little in terms of potential issues. But the one he does see could be a big problem. He thinks, What’s in the bag? But with enough distance between them, Sir Northblade feels comfortable. For the moment.

"ATTENTION ALL PASSENGERS. YOU ARE FREE TO ROAM AROUND THE PASSENGER CABINS. IF YOU REQUIRE ASSISTANCE, PLEASE FLAG DOWN ANY OF OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF. THE BAR IS OPEN AND FOOD WILL BE SERVED. OUR NEXT STOP OF THREE IS IN FOUR HOURS."

Four hours, that’s plenty of time for… Sir Northblade’s thought is interrupted as he notices the man in the dark armor is no longer sitting but walking straight toward them. His first instinct has his hand start to move toward his weapons under his jacket, but there’s something in the way the man is moving that doesn’t imply immediate violence. When he sits and speaks, Wayne’s intuition proves to be correct. Glad I didn’t start a brawl in the first 15 minutes of the train ride. That would have been embarrassing.

"My intuition tells me we may share a common interest. Do we need to dance around, or can we get straight to the point?"

”Not much room to dance on this train, so I suppose the latter. You wait here. I need to have a chat.” Wayne gives Lahz a glance and motions for a sidebar. "Kid’s got balls. How do you want to play it?"

[Mierin]

Perception: 1d100: [66] = 66 (85%)
JIC: 1d20: [20] = 20 , 1d100: [80] = 80

Conditions
Multi-Optic eyes

OOC Comments

Telescopic: 4-8x30 magnification, range: 6,000 feet
Macro Lens: 2x to 20x magnification, range: 3 feet
Passive night vision: 2,000 feet
Thermal Imaging: 2,000 feet (In use)
Light Filters: Reduces glare

Wearing NG Stalker suit
Wearing talisman of invincible armour (not activated)

Dressed in her usual clothes of a black v-neck sweater, black pants and fitted trench coat, Mierin gets on the train along with Ronan and Wayne. While she wasn’t waring her normal armour, she makes sure to wear her NG stalker suit under her clothes and makes sure she’s wearing her talisman of invincible armour. Mierin had no idea what was going to happen on this trip and figures the more prepared she is the better.

Ronan looks towards Mierin and Wayne. "I'm going to grab us some drinks, maybe distract the guard if I can. Make it easy for some of you to slip through to the package."

Mierin nods at Ronan. Good idea.”

Addressing whoever looks more like the leader "My intuition tells me we may share a common interest. Do we need to dance around, or can we get straight to the point?" He looks them all in the eyes from behind his helmet, his hands never leaving the bag.

Mierin sighs and rolls her eyes. Who the hell is this guy and what the hell does he want?. Mierin glances over at Lahz to see how he reacts to this sudden intrustion.

[Lynch]

Perception: 1d100: [89] = 89 /49%
JIC: 1d20: [19] = 19 ; 1d100: [86] = 86

Current ID: Mr. Chen
Current Language: Chinese

Lynch updates everyone about his findings regarding the train just prior to boarding, "I have all the frequencies used by the personnel here. All the Cargo modules have been shielded to prevent RF energy from escaping. Once we enter them we will be effectively cut off from the rest of the team. At lest with mechanical means of communication. I can attempt to crack the encryption of the signals I gathered if you want me to, but the guard force is only identified by numbers. So it will be difficult to pose as security." Lynch then provides the frequencies the guards are using.
When Lahz confirms Lynch's ID that they will be escorting, Lynch dons his Mr. Chen persona. The well known job fixer.

Mr. Chen emerges from a changing room, "Wǒ shì chén xiānshēng. Hěn gāoxìng zài zhège měihǎo de rìzi li yǒu nǐ péibàn wǒ."

I am Mr. Chen. It is a pleasure having you escort me this fine day.

Mr. Chen is enjoying a beverage in his seat as Crow approaches the group. He is in a very nice looking business suit. One might be able to tell it's been armored to withstand MDC attacks. Mr. Chen swirls the liquid in his glass and looks through it at Crow, "Duōme yǒuqù de niánqīng rén a. Wǒ bù rènwéi wǒ xūyào éwài de hùsòng, dàn zài wǒ kàn lái, nǐ zhèngzài xúnzhǎo gōngzuò, shì ma? Dàn wǒ de lǐmào zài nǎlǐ? Nǐ kěyǐ jiào wǒ chén xiānshēng. Wǒ yǒnggǎn ér yúchǔn de jiāhuo, nǐ jiào shénme míngzì?"

What an interesting young man. I do not think I need additional escort, yet it sounds to me like you are looking for employment, yes? But where are my manners. You may call me Mr. Chen. And what is your name my brave and foolish fellow?

Mr. Chen raises from his seat, places his glass down and extends his hand. This older Asian man speaks with a reverent and slightly commanding tone. Despite his small stature and business look his confidence is not lacking.

Invoke Trust: 1d100: [31] = 31 /84% (Get Crow Talking)

[Crow]

((ROLLS HELD))

Conditions:
SIXTH SENSE (2)
Tongues (12) 12 mins
PPE:58/70

"Duōme yǒuqù de niánqīng rén a. Wǒ bù rènwéi wǒ xūyào éwài de hùsòng, dàn zài wǒ kàn lái, nǐ zhèngzài xúnzhǎo gōngzuò, shì ma? Dàn wǒ de lǐmào zài nǎlǐ? Nǐ kěyǐ jiào wǒ chén xiānshēng. Wǒ yǒnggǎn ér yúchǔn de jiāhuo, nǐ jiào shénme míngzì?"

Crow rises with the elder Asian man and reaches out to grasp his offered hand. Casting tongues on himself after hearing the first few unintelligible words. Responding back in fluent Chinese.
It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mr. Chen. Excuse my brash arrival. My time working alone has given me a more direct approach towards greetings. I mean no disrespect but my skills are not for auction at this time, however I'm always open to meeting future employers. No, I am here on business, much as yourself. I believe our interests may intertwine, and I know that if one were to explore further up, the quality of guards would surprise those not prepared for them.

Crow will wait for Mr. Chen to sit before sitting back down himself. Eyeing the man studiously. Seems I spooked out the real ring leader.

[Lynch]

**Rolls Held Over**

Current ID: Mr. Chen
Current Language: Chinese

Niánqīng rén zhēnshi gè shǎguā. Rúcǐ dàdǎn de jiējìn yīqún mòshēng rén. Rúguǒ bùshì nàme lǔmǎng dehuà, zhè jīhū lìng rén yìnxiàng shēnkè.

Such a fool the young ones can be. To approach a set of strangers so boldly. It is almost impressive if it was not so reckless.

Mr. Chen's smile never wavers as he seats himself across from the man. "Nà tài zāogāole. Nǐ kàn qǐlái shì yīgè hěn yǒu nénglì de rén. Érqiě shìgè wú lǐ dào méiyǒu zìwǒ jièshào de rén."

"That is too bad. You seem like such a competent individual. And one who has been discourteous enough to not introduce themselves.

Mr. Chen tilts his head toward Crow. It's an old man who understands that some customs must be observed before continuing.

Whether Crow gives him a pseudonym or his real name makes no difference to Mr. Chen. Once Crow has returned the introduction Mr. Chen will give a slight bow of his head, but not break eye contact,"Hěn gāoxìng rènshí nín."

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance.

Mr. Chen raises his head and you see a slight smirk on his face as he addresses you again, "Jìrán yǐjīng guānchá dàole jièshào, wǒmen jiù kěyǐ jìxùle. Wǒ shì yīgè qiānxū de jìnéng hé gōngzuò jīngjì rén, yǒu péitóng rényuán lǚxíng. Rán'ér, nín sìhū duì wǒ shǐyòng zhè tàng fēicháng gōnggòng de huǒchē zuò chūle xǔduō jiǎshè. Qǐngwèn nín shì shénme yuányīn dé chū zhège jiélùn de?"

"Now that introductions have been observed we may proceed. I am a humble broker of skills and work traveling with an escort. Yet you seem to make a great number of assumptions regarding my use of this very public train. May I inquire to what lead you to this conclusion?

The smile never wavers from his face as he points out the very blatant fact that nor he nor those with him have given any overt or covert indication they are on the train for anything more then transport.

[Lahz]

BACK << DEF4 -- P2 - P1 -- DEF3 -- C8 C7 C6 C5 -- DEF2 -- C4 C3 C2 C1 -- DEF1 --[[LEAD-ENGINE]] >>>> FRONT


Perception [51%]: 1d100: [80] = 80 [+15% involving Electronics or Machines]
JiC D20: 1d20: [1] = 1 :
JiC D100: 1d100: [85] = 85
Telemechanics [100%]: 1d100: [34] = 34

Conditions: Telemechanics (0 ISP, Constant, 5ft, 100%), Mind-block Auto-Defense (0 ISP, Automatic), Sense Supernatural Evil & Magic Energy (1900ft if using magical or psionic powers, 900ft if NOT using powers), Radiate Nature [Weariness, Wariness] (100ft to psychics, 12ft to non-psychics), Roadrunner Power Armor (135/135 MB), Sixth Sense (Cannot be surprised by a sneak attack)

ISP: 231/231 ISP -8=223

---

OOC: GM Please provide layout map for this Car, we took this train here previously so should already be pretty familiar.
OOC: Lahz previously provided Crypto and ECM rolls, do I need to re-roll

"My intuition tells me we may share a common interest. Do we need to dance around, or can we get straight to the point?"

”Not much room to dance on this train, so I suppose the latter. You wait here. I need to have a chat.” Wayne gives Lahz a glance and motions for a sidebar. "Kid’s got balls. How do you want to play it?"

When Northblade, instead of using comms, almost immediately turns and ‘outs’ him as a proverbial leader of the group in response to the intrusive little guy Lahz decides to mess with Wayne, "Well, you might have similar interests … he might like pottery and long walks on the beach. I don’t care. If you like him, you guys can get a room after the Op is done, but I am married and very not interested … "

Lynch-Chen’s next step to launch with … something lengthy … in an unknown language though throws him for a full loop and he decides to just roll with the incomprehensibility of it, , "Chen? Did not catch that, again. Still don’t speak that language. Didn’t last night. Didn’t learn it this morning."

Then the little guy starts chirping back in apparently the same language, so Lahz looks back over to Northblade, “I guess you could not hold his attention.”

The Psi-Tech then gives the newcomer [Crow] an unobtrusive once-over of the psychic variety, reaching out via 1st Telemechanics [5’ range] to check the fellow, **Like a cave dweller … no radio, no EBA, that pistol is damn ancient … serviceable but … not finding tech. If he is here for our item, he is not retained by same employer, he certainly doesn’t have anything that could contain … y’know a world killing scourge virus.** … 2nd Tracking via Psychic Scent [96% // 118% (if using magic)]: 1d100: [31] = 31 (To get his ‘scent’ in case needed for future) … and 3rd uses his Command Drone Gauntlet to simply snap a still-image of the man [Crow], **Luckless fool if you are an actual rival. Really nowhere on damn Earth you could run now that you’ve been this up-close …. Should I drop a tracker into his bag? … Nah seems like that might be overkill … maybe. Or a waste. Hmmmm … time to Astral-check?**


Barring being flagged down by the others, Lahz yawns and takes his seat once more closing his eyes ¾ of the way and meditating to drop into the Astral Projection state [-8 ISP, 100 Min], and intangibly dropping straight out though the bottom of the Train, **I need to pop my head up through the floor very carefully in each damn car. Need to locate another Cryo-stasis thing … or a damn robot that can walk around the Security and cargo cars freely … **

Prowl 76%: 1d100: [14] = 14 --- to the degree needed since he is invisible and intangible and … underneath a train
Identify types of Paranormal Creatures 98%: 1d100: [100] = 100 -- in case he spots anything out of the ordinary

Tentative Plan

Summary for GM:
1) Check the Cryo-Container we were given
2) Go see the Psychic (if there are no recording/transmitting devices) -- Get her to share the vision and any images (since WE have a cryo-container now, it may be easier to know whether one of those appears in said vision)
3) Group Vehicle Modifications (estimating 4 days, if more time is needed then he will not attempt in this time window because the vehicles wont be delivered for 1 week, and anything further cuts things too close)
4) Repair, Repair, Repair, Repair, then, take Group-Transport from Merctown to Lazlo --- GM Please advise if Ship cannot be repaired, and new missiles are acquired so we are leaving with full kit.
5) Visit NG Store with his NGCME Card --- Download/Purchase Specifications for Hover Trains as 'study materials' for a *** Northern Gun Certified Mechanical Engineer
6) [Have Lynch do this incognito] Buy 100 MD Box/Trunk -- Decoy/Empty "Thing @ least some of Spooks are 'Guarding' and reason for being on Train"
6) Buy tickets and take hover-train from Lazlo to Manistique (so that we can get familiar with these trains)
7) Buy additional tickets for target trip ... Manistique --> Lazlo (?)
8) Day-of --- Take Train back to Manistique from Lazlo (this will also take Spooks back to their own vehicle if necessary ... otherwise we can radio the Robot Crew to return and meet us @ Merctown)
9) Pick up Magic Mace when we get back to town.

[Crow]

((Rolls Held))

Conditions:
Sixth sense (2)
Tongues (12)

PPE: 58/70

Crow will introduce himself under his pseudonym before continuing. "If I told you in an age of magic and psionics that fate pulled me over to your little entourage, would you believe me? Crow pauses, assessing the group and ignoring the elf before him. "Simply put the level of competency at your table far exceeds what the passengers and guards could hope to achieve. Now if we are done comparing phalluses I'd appreciate getting to down to brass tacks. The device needs destroyed and I'd much rather work together than compete for the same goal."

[Vheld]

JIC: 1d20: [2] = 2 , 1d100: [78] = 78
PER: 1d100: [34] = 34 vs. 79%

Mindful of the psi-stalkers from earlier, Vheld keeps his use of magic to a minimum. He simply stays, hidden and quiet and following the train, running through various scenarios and how best he might use his magic to help the team out of them. I don’t care what anyone says. Rifts are clearly the best way to travel. No useless waiting. When he isn’t plotting or meditating, he’ll absently scratch Sil’s head and murmur ”Easy girl. Plenty of waiting yet and then some excitement.”

[Crow]

((ROLLS HELD))

Conditions:
Sixth sense (2)
Tongues (12)

PPE: 58/70
ISP: 24/24



I really should have taken more time to observe these people, it's too late now as the die is cast. I'll have to reflect on this later.

Crow bites down at his growing irritation with himself before addressing Wayne. "As I have tried to address with your employer, Mr. Chen. Our paths are on a converging course, and I'm much more inclined to work together than separate entities. You showed much zeal before at this proposal. Are you still of the same mind or do we need to continue this charade."

Looking at the zoned out guy.

I highly doubt that skinny man could be more than a competent lieutenant. He's half asleep as we speak.

[Wayne Northblade]

(Rolls Held over)

"Well, you might have similar interests … he might like pottery and long walks on the beach. I don’t care. If you like him, you guys can get a room after the Op is done, but I am married and very not interested … "

"Maybe we will get a room. I'll make sure you get a discount on the holovid." Wayne winks at Lahz.

Then the little guy starts chirping back in apparently the same language, so Lahz looks back over to Northblade, “I guess you could not hold his attention.”

It doesn't help that you haven't answered his question...or mine.

When Lahz goes to sleep instead of giving a direct answer, Wayne takes it upon himself to do so. "You're in. Stay close, follow her lead," he nods toward Mierin "And don't make me regret this.What's in the bag?

?"

[Orrucks]

[Rolls carried]

If there were a plan, Orrucks returning with beverage in hand almost spoiled it as he is confused by Mr. Chen being among them. In the same moment og him beginning to open his toothy maw to ask who he is in general he figures the way the others, except the the stranger who decided to add himself he hasn't decided if he likes yet whom he ignores, the Chinese man is one of them, and changes what he's about to say as he says it. "Wha's 'at now? Ain't a clue what that was."

"Me without a tranzlator."

The Grackle parks himself more or less right where he was before getting up abruptly, no thought to that maybe the seating was not meant for someone his size plopping down like a full sack of weight and has a drink from the vessel in which he got his beverage. He lets out a breath before unceremoniously referring to Crow, "Who's the little guy?"

[Crow]

((ROLLS HELD))

Conditions:
Sixth sense (2)
Tongues (12)

PPE: 58/70
ISP: 24/24

Great I get paired with the psi-stalker

"I was hoping for a bigger audience before I displayed my goods but I suppose this shall do." Unzipping the bag a quarter of the way, Crow will reveal first the silver skull pommel inlaid with eyes of shining rubies, set above a worn black leather grip extending nearly a foot into the fanged maw of an argent skull burning with hate and flanked by batwings of polished steel. A rippling mercurial blade etched with glyphs of death glints from the shadows of the leather bag.

"Otimač never fails to impress."

[Wayne Northblade]

(Rolls held over)

Wayne takes a look at the craftsmanship from pommel to blade and gives a gentle whistle. "And impress it does. That is a nice piece. I can tell from the wrap its seen some use. So what''s your poison? Gin? Whiskey? Please don't tell me you're a moonshine guy." Dependent on the answer, Wayne goes to grab a drink for each of them.

[Crow]

"And impress it does. That is a nice piece. I can tell from the wrap its seen some use. So what''s your poison? Gin? Whiskey? Please don't tell me you're a moonshine guy."

Crow holds up a hand to halt him. "I will take a water as I don't partake while on the job. Have to keep my wits about me. However once this is over I will happily indulge in whiskey and swap tales. Speaking of which what is your method for accomplishing our goal."
Crow will rewrap Otimač as he speaks, his movements economical in their precision.

[Lahz]

** Rolls Carried Forward **

"I was hoping for a bigger audience before I displayed my goods but I suppose this shall do." Unzipping the bag a quarter of the way, Crow will reveal first the silver skull pommel inlaid with eyes of shining rubies, set above a worn black leather grip extending nearly a foot into the fanged maw of an argent skull burning with hate and flanked by batwings of polished steel. A rippling mercurial blade etched with glyphs of death glints from the shadows of the leather bag.

"Otimač never fails to impress."

His eyes still not closed as he waits for the Astral Trance to take him, Lahz allows a single eyebrow to raise a moment "Hmmm. I believe Thorn has a full-size one of those when he bothers ... "

[Underguard]

Location: Manistique
Weather: Cloudy (20* Celsius/68* Fahrenheit)
Time: 9:30am

[All Aboard the Boisterous Express]
BACK << DEF4 -- P2 - P1 [Spooks] -- DEF3 -- C8 C7 C6 C5 -- DEF2 -- C4 C3 C2 C1 -- DEF1 --[[LEAD-ENGINE]] >>>> FRONT

Ronan gets up and heads to the food bar on the passenger area and runs into Orrucks, the google-wearing alien offering a mock salute to the croc-man as they order their drinks. Orrucks finds himself to be distracted by the arrival of the Mystic Knight, one of the more noticeable people on the train with the demon-helmet. Meg was making her way towards the food section but stopped to listen to the Knight's remarks while noting various weak points in his armor; Meg does note that the armor is not environmental and likely has some open areas she could exploit if need be. Mierin on the other hand is quite critical of the rather forward Knight, while Wayne and Lahz converse with Lahz dismissing Wayne's comments and the Knight more or less. Lynch decides to engage the Knight as his oriental persona, Mr Chen. Crow, for his part, is not deterred and uses some simple magic to understand LynChen.

Ronan returns to Mierin with some drinks and observes the interaction with Crow while Lahz instead starts scoping out the the train astrally. The Spooks find that they have access to the main Northern Gun channel, but there are a couple, far more heavily encrypted channels that are also weaker. It is possible a couple of the cargo transports have isolated communications for the security onboard, however as far as Northern Gun staff and security personnel are concerned, all is normal if not a little rowdy in the passenger cars. Wayne, Crow and Orrucks then decide to share a drink, with the Knight opting for simple water prompting Ronan to mutter "Boring." To Mierin. Crow states his purpose to destroy an unnamed device, which is what the Spooks were hired for and tracks that they could well be allies. Mierin, Meg and Orrucks are the only ones to notice that Lahz has been still and silent, with Mierin able to guess he is scouting ahead using some psionics thanks to working with him for longer than the others.

When Lahz drops down to begin exploring the cars, he finds several interesting things. The Defense Cars each have a pair of flying PAs on standby and a security contingent of at least 12 environmentally armored personnel. They appear to be at a "Ready" status and not Alert. Several portholes in different directions, and computer screens show the surrounding area as they scan for threats. DEF4 has a 180* arc on the rear, DEF3 seems to be covering the right side of the train. Cargo car 8-5 all are chalk full of Northern Gun labeled supplies, packaged power armors and weapons apparently being shipped to different locations to be sold or used. Hard to say, but none of them have any personnel within them. DEF2 is covering the left side of the convoy. Cargo Cars 4-1 are another story all together, each one with it's own security team of four armored individuals with apparently highly valued transport. Cargo Cars 4 and 3 have Northern Gun equipment. Cargo Car 2 has a single, large container in the center and the car is quite cooled. The container is unmarked, and the four security are wearing unmarked environmental armor though from Lahz's experience, they appear to be Coalition. One of unmarked security seems to look in Lahz's direction when he pokes his head up but Lahz is able to pop out of the car without raising any overt alarms. Lahz can't tell what it was that might've picked up on his scent. Cargo car 1 is also openly wearing Coalition colors, with several secured containers in it. DEF 1 is focused on the path the train is taking. Each car is connected by doors that seem sealed. Lahz also finds each car appears to have at least one emergency hatch on the bottom and top of them.

Trailing the train on the outside, Vheld spots something interesting to the west of them. A group of three land rovers of some form seem to be approaching the Train almost perpendicularly, if Vheld had to guess, he'd figure they were an easy 10-15 minutes from intersecting the train. They also seem to be using the terrain to keep out of direct line of sight of the train. If Vheld gets closer, Vheld gets the feeling these are third party raiders about to launch an attack.

What are your intentions?
GM Note: 15 minutes have passed.

Lahz:
Vheld:
Mierin:
Wayne:
Lynch:
Meg:
Orrucks:
Crow:

[Vheld]

JIC: 1d20: [15] = 15 , 1d100: [87] = 87
PER: 1d100: [9] = 9 vs. 79%

Vheld takes note of the oncoming raiders and decides that’s enough of a wrinkle to merit breaking radio silence. On the team’s comm, he says ”Ace, this is Deuce. Three ground vehicles. Moving fast. Time to intercept 10-15 minutes. Raiders from the looks of things. I could stop their approach. Might make a good distraction though. Requesting orders.” Depending on how Lahz responds (or, failing that, Mierin or Wayne), Vheld will move in and prepare to engage the raiders at range. Either way, for the time being he will reach out to Sil. Assume phantom form, and take us lower to the ground. Try to keep us out of sight. Vheld frowns, considering his options. What do we suppose are the chances that this is a coincidence?

[Orrucks]

Perception: 1d100: [96] = 96 /60% +20% on Perception rolls to determine if an explosive device or ordnance is “live” or a “dud”
JIC: 1d20: [6] = 6 / 1d100: [28] = 28

As Orrucks sits for a drink with his associates, he says nothing about his methods, hard to tell sometimes if rivals are close or are just sane law abiding citizens just riding the train to their destination. More importantly, young ears might hear and get a wild hair. His world isn't for children. An eye does stay wandering for anything he would recognize from the Black Market, though doubtful he'd see anyone. Absolute wore case scenario, he goes to one of the confidentially identified agents if he notices any. For now, even if he does see any, he'll ignore their existence just as they currently ignore his.

Streewise: Perception: 1d100: [48] = 48 /39%

Seeing that Lahz hasn't moved in a good while, he figures he decided to sleep through at least part of the ride for some reason, expectations or something perhaps. No reason to look for his attention right now he knows of anyway.

[Lahz]

BACK << DEF4 -- P2 - [P1.Spooks] -- DEF3 -- C8 C7 C6 C5 -- DEF2 -- C4 C3 C2 C1 -- DEF1 --[[LEAD-ENGINE]] >>>> FRONT


Perception [51%]: 1d100: [19] = 19 [+15% involving Electronics or Machines]
JiC D20: 1d20: [4] = 4 :
JiC D100: 1d100: [39] = 39
Telemechanics [100%]: 1d100: [77] = 77

Conditions: Telemechanics (0 ISP, Constant, 5ft, 100%), Mind-block Auto-Defense (0 ISP, Automatic), Sense Supernatural Evil & Magic Energy (1900ft if using magical or psionic powers, 900ft if NOT using powers), Radiate Nature [Weariness, Wariness] (100ft to psychics, 12ft to non-psychics), Roadrunner Power Armor (135/135 MB), Sixth Sense (Cannot be surprised by a sneak attack)

ISP: 223/231

---

After a few minutes of Astral-Snooping, Lahz returns to his body to find folks in largely the same locations. Seeing as a number of his team seem to have decided not to bring (or wear) comms the Psi-Tech will radio (so that Vheld can hear) and also speak in a very low voice to avoid being overheard, "Did anyone figure out what the Tourist [Crow] wants to destroy, or if he had a plan?? ... The Defense Cars each have 2 PAs on standby and a security contingent of 12 armed EBA security. DEF4, 2 cars behind us, has the rear. 1 Car ahead, DEF3, seems to be covering the right side of the train. Cargo car 8-5 have NG goods, no personnel. DEF2, 6 cars Up ahead, is covering the left side of the convoy. Front 4 Cargo Cars, each has it's own security team of four armored individuals with apparently highly valued transport. Cargo Cars 4 and 3 look like NG. Cargo Car 2 has a single, large container, and 4 security in EBA who seem like they could be CS. Cargo Car 1 security are openly wearing Coalition colors, with several secured containers in it, if that is the target, then intel was incomplete. Each car has at least one emergency hatch on the bottom and top of them."

On the team’s comm, he says ”Ace, this is Deuce. Three ground vehicles. Moving fast. Time to intercept 10-15 minutes. Raiders from the looks of things. I could stop their approach. Might make a good distraction though. Requesting orders.”

Lahz's sigh of exasperation is almost immediate, "Fools and amateurs ... we are surrounded by ... Are the 3 oncoming with you Mr-Special-Blade?" he directs the last question to Crow then taps his radio live for Deuce, "3 Ground vehicles? Most of our train route is over Water so their window is small. My count is over 50 security on this Rig. If they want to act as distractions, Gods-blessem ... Right now it seems like if we could get up to C4 we could unhook the other cars and clear most of the field. Can we do a short-range portal if you have a target image??"

Lahz looks briefly over to Mierin and Ronan for comments, **The new ones will chime in no matter what I do it appears, but I'll not defer to them ... this is going to look weird if Vheld makes the portal in the Lavatory and we all just file in there ... like a clown-car from the old Holo-Vids ...** then turns his attention to the Drone Command Gauntlet on his wrist, to begin re-constructing some images:

1) Cargo Car 4
2) Cargo Car 2
3) Cargo Car 1

To do this he will use the video/image editing suite and Total Recall [-2 ISP].

Computer Operation 118%: 1d100: [8] = 8 , 1d100: [76] = 76 , 1d100: [92] = 92 , 1d100: [17] = 17

**Maybe I should take over a couple of those Crated Power Armors, set one for Self-Destruct on a timer? Take the other on a cute little rampage? ... Hold down my own repairs at least. Dropping back part of the train is good though right? Leaves the passengers with the bulk of the Security team ... , and a good chunk of the cargo that they have to defend.**

Tentative Plan

Summary for GM:
1) Check the Cryo-Container we were given
2) Go see the Psychic (if there are no recording/transmitting devices) -- Get her to share the vision and any images (since WE have a cryo-container now, it may be easier to know whether one of those appears in said vision)
3) Group Vehicle Modifications (estimating 4 days, if more time is needed then he will not attempt in this time window because the vehicles wont be delivered for 1 week, and anything further cuts things too close)
4) Repair, Repair, Repair, Repair, then, take Group-Transport from Merctown to Lazlo --- GM Please advise if Ship cannot be repaired, and new missiles are acquired so we are leaving with full kit.
5) Visit NG Store with his NGCME Card --- Download/Purchase Specifications for Hover Trains as 'study materials' for a *** Northern Gun Certified Mechanical Engineer
6) [Have Lynch do this incognito] Buy 100 MD Box/Trunk -- Decoy/Empty "Thing @ least some of Spooks are 'Guarding' and reason for being on Train"
6) Buy tickets and take hover-train from Lazlo to Manistique (so that we can get familiar with these trains)
7) Buy additional tickets for target trip ... Manistique --> Lazlo (?)
8) Day-of --- Take Train back to Manistique from Lazlo (this will also take Spooks back to their own vehicle if necessary ... otherwise we can radio the Robot Crew to return and meet us @ Merctown)
9) Pick up Magic Mace when we get back to town.

[Crow]

PERCEPTION: 1d100: [14] = 14 ]
JIC: 1d20: [8] = 8
JIC: 1d100: [53] = 53

Conditions:
SIXTH SENSE (2)

PPE: 58/70
ISP: 24/24

"Did anyone figure out what the Tourist [Crow] wants to destroy, or if he had a plan??

Raising an eyebrow at the twig seated before him, he watches as Lahz suddenly animates from a deep sleep. Crow allows a few minutes to pass before answering. "My plan was direct. Make my way through the train and grab the package. Though I'm not surprised there are more after it."
"I bet he has a twelve page plan just for wiping his ass."

Clearing his mind Crow once again touches Otimač's cold blade. "Styphon. Black Winged lord. Corrupter. I offer no prayer and no pleas. Take the souls of those that fall today and let my blade drink deep."

. Finally nodding to Wayne. I'm ready when you are."