Starcraft 2: Wings of Liberty: IC

[Sarone]

The beeping on the your communications device draws your attention. With the last month behind you, the fact you're recieving another message lately can be for good or ill.

The gangwar between the Sanchez Cartel and Colonel Orlan's Mercenary forces is profitable for you, to say the least. From espionage to assaults, there wasn't a dull moment. Add to it the deaths of a few more prominent freelancers, and the destruction of more than one smuggling ship, and alot of people are lucky the war hasn't brought in the other factions that control the underworld of Dead Man's Port.

Taking a moment to gather your thoughts, you press play on the message. Quickly, a human female of european descent, dressed in a kimono appears, her red and gold hair up in bun.

"Greetings, this is an invitation to a gala that the illustrious and victorious Colonel Orlan is throwing, in the wake of a successful campaign against the Sanchez Cartel," says the assisstant/concubine. "Due to your actions in support of the Colonel's forces, he is extending an invitation. Due to the level of society being brought in as well, the Colonel is also extending a line of funds for you to use. These funds, while not open to anything else, will allow you to requisition formal wear. The local dressers will be at your call so that you can be ready for The Gala that will take place in three days."

Looking off to the side, the assistant leans in close, lowering her voice. "It is recommended you appear. The Colonel is inviting various members of the other factions to this function. Failure to appear will "displease" the Colonel." Leaning back, the assistant offers a generous smile before the screen goes dark.

(OOC: Beginning post is up. What do you do?)

[Ralasha]

Already wearing my armor, I load my guns, polish my monomolecular broadsword, and get my grenades handy. I then make a call to one of these 'clothiers', and have a suitable outfit made, that will fit over my formfitting full body suit, in a stylish, accentuating, teasing, and modest manner. I then holster my pistol, put on my bandoleer, attach a few dummy grenades, sling my rifle, and sheathe the sword. Once dressed and ready, I hide a few clips... down my shirt... and go to this... gathering.

"Baka gaijin."

[Frosty]

'Tatiana' receives the message in her internal comm-link while on a typical scavenging run. The visuals pop up directly in her eyes, as if she is wearing a HUD, and the audio is audible only to her own ears. Having grown up extremely poor, she has learnt the importance of frugality. Thanks to her augmented digestive tract, she is able to mix low-quality soy with other barely-consumeably ingredients, and create a gruel that that is nutritious enough...for her anyways.

Why has she lived like this? She has been saving up, trying to get enough creds to maybe finally repair her medic armor, but some set back or another invariable makes her poor again. Why, even with the good pay from the last job, she barely managed to restock her ammo and replace any damage gear. Tatiana hadn't expected an espionage run to turn violent, and she ended up having to terminate the man who had rented her for the evening.

The curvy woman knows that she owes a lot to Colonel Orlan, who has thrown a lot of jobs her way in recent times, keeping her funded enought to not have to sleep on the streets. "Funds to get something for the gala eh? Well, there's nothing that say I can't get something that I can wear to that event and also serve me in my...evening line of work." Yep, her frugality and resourcesfulness flaring again, although some would just call her cheap.

Using her internal comm-link, Tatiana calls the local clothier, and goes there to have her exact measurements taken. She wants the dress to both be fancy and have a devastating effect on men. She ends up with a sheer, black lace dress that is partially see-through, enough for anyone looking to see that Tatiana's huge chest does not need the support of a bra, and for people to be unsure about the presence of underwear. While the dress goes down to just below her knees, its extremely high side-slits and its plunging neckline ensures that more is exposed than is covered. Some studded diamonds adorn the dress at various intervals. A pair of 6-inch clear heels complete the ensemble.

Of course, a girl has to accessorize, and Tatiana does so with a quick-draw holster at her side, housing a C-7 Guass Pistol [Predator 4 equivalent], a few spare magazines strapped to her belt, a pair of AR gloves (worn), and a subvocal microphone. And just in case, she has some of her other gear stashed nearby or perhaps in the vehicle she uses to get to the gala.

[DeusMortuusEst]

Marcus

The former ghost shifts his attention from the large screen covering one of the walls in his home. With a silent command he mutes the sound of the attractive news anchor reporting on the latest events in and around Dead Man's Port. Marcus stopped all the feeds sending news from beyond the systems several weeks ago. The War isn't something that interests him any more and while he likes the AI anchor, he can only take so much lies in a single day before it starts to annoy him.

Noticing that the message is incoming from one of Orlan's subsystems Marcus doesn't project it on the main screen, instead choosing to play the recording directly on his retinas instead. While he doesn't adhere to the strict security protocol of a SpecOps agent old habits die hard and a little paranoia is healthy. Especially considering how badly the last mission fared. What was supposed to be a simple breaking and entering had turned into a mess of betrayals, explosions and stupid decisions. He got out but a camera caught him just before he left the area and now the cartel knew what to look for.

Because of the exposure risk Marcus breathes a sigh of relief when he understands that this is a purely representative thing. Orlan wants to show off and so he invites his agents to impress on others there.
"Well, at least I can get me some new clothes..." He thinks as he pulls up a list of local tailors on the wall and asks his AI to pull up a couple of digital samples to match his taste and the dress code for the evening.

Sipping on a cup of soy-coffe Marcus eyes the different collections one by one for nearly an hour before finally deciding on a cut that seems like the best match. A quick body scan and a placed order takes care of all the details and soon the young man goes back to watching the news again. A couple of hours later a tailor arrives from the shop along with the new dinner jacket to make the final adjustments.

When the tailor has left Marcus studies himself in a mirror, it was a long time since he wore anything similar to this kind of clothing but he finds that he still enjoys it. It's just like any other disguise, hiding his true self from onlookers and projects an aura of confidence and power, though in a different way than his HE-suit does. The dinner jacket is made of black pseudowool covered in a molecule-thick layer of nanomachines who change the hue of the fabric to make it appear matte night black against any kind of background and in any kind of light. In a pitch black room the machines emit just a hint of light so that the silhouette of the tuxedo can be seen. The cut is classical and elegant with a narrow shawl collar and a single button on the jacket and black silk braids along the outer seams on the trousers. A white shirt, black waist coat and black tie finishes the outfit.
"I should do this more often."
Marcus muses as he turns slightly. His short black hair and icy blue eyes complement the clothes, making him look like he stepped out from a old move, anachronistic and elegant at the same time.

Finally done with his self-admiring he steps away from the mirror and pulls up the invitation message on his retinas again. Selecting the reply and friendly alternatives he waits until his online alias appears and then starts speaking, noticing how his digital alter ego mimics his every word and adding body language to go with the tone and wording to make the message a sincerely kind one.
"I thank the Colonel for the invitation and for his generosity. He can rest assured that I will be present and represent him and his interests to the best of my abilities." He finishes the message with a smile and the hint of a bow.

After considering the place and kind of event Marcus finally decides to go unarmed to the gala. The tailored clothes doesn't leave enough room for him to pack enough punch to be useful, and if he needs a weapon the place is packed with body guards that can be disposed of easily enough and relieved of their firearms.

[Sarone]

(OOC: Three out of five posted is decent enough. Let's see if the other show up.)

The Gala isn't for three days, with the clothiers easily making time on the second day that you have. The tailor/clothier works in a guild that takes delight in fashion, though when the person shows up and gives you a run down on the gear, you also realize they are some of the finest makers of second chance body armor.


Ralasha


The clothier comes by and manages to set a dress that enhances your armor. Knowing that it might be prudent, she also designs it so that the excess pieces can break away through a series of pulls on a few pieces of cloth. The pieces are also durable, clearly made of some kind of material that is resistant to a variety of elements, though you don't really have time to check each.

Also, as if they had read your mind, they have made it so that the various pieces of gear you have is partially covered and concealed.

Provides one additional dice to you body armor on top of the armor you are wearing (both kinetic and ballistic) as well as +2 to your dice pool.



Titiana


The clothier manages to make do, resulting in the dress you described being made out of spidersilk and treated to be flame and tear resistant. While It won't stop a bullet, it can slow it down enough. As to accessorizing, the belt is able to hide two spare magazines as a well as be a holster for the pistol.

In addition, there is a modification that has a strap of cloth go down the side, top, and bottom of your arm that ends in a series of connectors for gloves.

Provides two points of ballistic protection against getting shot as well a +4 to your dice pool for various social interactions.


Marcus


With your precise measurements, the tailor brings in your tuxedo. A detail briefing is given, with the various materials being highlighted so you know what to expect. While it wasn't called for, there is a reversible shoulder holster for a small pistol and two mags.

The armor provides three points of armor (both ballistic and kinetic) as well as +4 to your dice pool.


The gala isn't for another day. What are your plans?

(Like it's been mentioned, 3 out of 5 have posted. The remaining two have until Sunday to post. I will be posting on Friday.)

[Ralasha]

Alurah attempts to contact some of her old Platoon Mates, to find out if one of them would enjoy accompanying her as a plus one.

[Frosty]

Tatiana has a similar idea, except that she wants Brock along not only because he is a friend, but also because he can protect her in a fight. She checks if the former-marine merc is also invited. If not, she sees if she can bring Brock along, promising him all sorts of personal favors.

[DeusMortuusEst]

Marcus

Having ticked off the 'clothes' section on his preparations list Marcus then prepares for a short trip down town to visit a friend for some information and see if he can procure a small gun suitable for the event. The fact that his clothing comes with a holster makes him suspect that someone might want him to be armed during the evening. He'll not disappoint them.

Marcus will be visiting his contact Lukas Patrio, a bartender to see if he can give him some more information on the gala, or point him to someone who might. After that he wants to buy a gun (I'm afb atm so I'll return later and edit in exactly what he's looking for unless Sarone posts before that. Any gun will do really, he's not that picky.)

[Sarone]

Alurah:

A quick check of the invitation indicates that you can bring only one escort. You will want to decide wether you want protection or a dance partner.


Tatiana:

It takes a minute, but Brock answers you back. He tells you that he wasn't invited, but he does tell you he wasn't really a big time member of the Colonel's Forces. He does mention that he has a job lined up that will take him outsystem for quite a few days, maybe a couple of weeks. When you tell him about the party, he brightens up, since his ship out won't be until two days after he ships out.


Marcus:

Lucas Patrio is happy to hear you were invited. Despite what alot of people have heard, it is true that quite a few high end players are going to the Gala. Something about Marilea Sanchez, Gustoff Heyzman, Merc Captain Andrew Schrewnkoff, Captain Matthew Horner, and quite a few others.

[Frosty]

Tatiana herself can handle much of the social situations, but she herself isn't exactly the world's deadliest warrior, and thus bringing along someone like Brock is perfect. Brock won't be too difficult to keep entertained, and is very good in a fight.Tatiana meets up with Brock somewhere, making sure that Brock has at least a decent tux or something that can fit over any tight-fitting body-army he might have.

Taking Brock back to her place, she changes into the new, heavily-reavealing dress. "So, what do you think? Good for the gala?" Granted, asking Brock probably isn't going to get her a lot of good fashion advice, as Brock is a pretty simple man, and his fashion knowledge for women's clothing amount to "less is better."

"And don't say wear nothing to the event! I'm not *working* at the gala." she says, wagging her fingers at him, pre-empting the half-joking suggestion she knew was coming.

[Ralasha]

Alurah calls Marka Bramos, her best friend and second in command. Being certain to tell him it's going to be a party full of scum, and he may have to dance a bit, both during and afterwards.

[Sarone]

Tatiana


Trying to hide a devilish smile, Brock nodded. "Hey, I'm just here. Apparrently your stunts in medicine had gotten the Colonel's attention." He starts reconsidering his plans, but stows it. "Besides, if the Colonel has invited you, it's best to not disregard the invitation." Looking over at her, Brock quickly held up a hand. "Before you ask, not very many people know, at least as far as the Dominion is concerned. Word has a tendency to get out during a conflict, but just the same their isn't very many people who are willing to cross any of the cartels, families, and groups."


Alurah


It takes a moment for the call to get through, but you get Marka. It takes a moment, but you can tell he was sleeping. "Hey Alu," Marka says, rubbing his eyes as he adjust the camera, though you can tell he was wearing pants and no shirt, "what's going on?"

After you tell him about the dance, he considers it for a second. "Geez, you know how to make friends," he says. "But it's all good. Gives me a chance to meetup with and talk, since there's a job in the works."

[Ralasha]

"Don't forget, it's a formal function, so you're allowed a pistol and a melee weapon. I suggest personal armor beneath the outfit. I have a stipend we can get you set up with."

[Frosty]

Tatiana couldn't help her own smile as well. At least she's gaining more recognition without necessarily revealing more of her past. "Well Brock, this is a fine opportunity for you to come and get your name circulated as well. Many would do well hiring you as a mercenary or bodyguard. They'll see how well you protect me tomorrow night."

[Sarone]

Alurah

Marka nods, his right hand reaching into his jacket and pulls out a compact pistol, releasing the mag, and tosses it to you. Looking down, you see that the rounds are .357 with bright red-orange caps except for the very tips. "APSDs. A gift from the recruiter. Turns out the facilities on his ship can produce the ammunition, weapons, and parts," Marka mentions as he leans back. "Gotten two more mags. They don't want word to get out they have access to some good gear."

Looking at his watch, Marka motions for the door."Well, mmight as well head out. Don't want to be late to the Colonel's ball."


Tatiana

Smiling at the suggestion, Brock reaches into his jacket with his left, revealing a strapped short barreled shotgun pistol. "I wouldn't be a very good bodyguard with out this, now, would I?"

Reholstering the shotgun, Brock looks at the nearby clock. "So, feel like impressing these people?"


*********

[Ralasha]

Alurah nods, tosses him his clip, and opens the door for him. She tilts her head while looking at him and smiles. "Lets."

[Frosty]

Rose/Tatiana drive over to the gala with Brock, her (comparitively) small frame looking like beauty next to Brock's Beast, except Brock isn't ugly. Just...scarred from many battles. "Alright Brock. I've got a lot of my gear stashed in the vehicle just in case, but it'd be too awkward to lug around a full auto-doc kit to a gala. Besides, how'd I dance? Don't worry, I've still got my twin weapons with me..." says the prostitute with a smile as she pats her pistols.

As they walk towards the entrance, Tatiana adds, "Remember to look tough, but friendly. You don't want to scare away or alienate potential employers." She takes note of anyone...noteworthy walking to the entrance as well (such as amazonian-height women of zerg-killing), as well as takes stock of their outfits and poise. With the exception of any female 'entertainers' actually hired to entertain tonight, she is likely the least dressed girl there, straddling the line between high-class and low-class for this affair.

[Ralasha]

((More like... just low class.))
Upon reaching the party Alurah will walk in, head high and proud. Perhaps glancing about, but not really paying any mind to anyone, though attempting not to be rude about it.... unless she sees people that are obviously dressed without any class. Then she'll pointedly.... ignore. even if face to face soto speak.

[Frosty]

Tatiana is almost just the opposite. She appears friendly and flirty. Often times her job has depended on people underestimating her. The high slits on her dress and the massive jiggling with each step really helps in that regard.

[Sarone]

(OK: The boards ate my post earlier, which is bullcrap. Anyway, here's my post. Take 2.)

Colonel Orlan's gala is at on of the starports on the outskirts of town. Or rather, the way to get to it.

As you step out of your vehicle, a valet takes over and drives it to designated area. Moving forward, you are checked in and scanned for any chemicals or explosives (while arms and armor is allowed, explosives and chemicals of a military grade are confiscated and the perpetrators forced to "leave").

Making your way through security, you noticed a fairly decentnumber of guests, ranging from local dignitaries and politicians, to gang and mercenary leaders with body guards of various degrees. The area is rather spartan, with the minimal in refreshments and entertainement being seen. A stern statured marine, his face hidden behind a reflective shield and carrying a .357 gauss rifle, is on crowd control, directing the various guests towards the gates that'll lead outside.

Once through the building and outside, you see where the gala will be held. Or rather, the ship it will be on.

A massive, gold plated star cruiser, of an old design that could be no earlier than 40 years, sits on the tarmac before you, various catwalks leading up to various docking stations. The Aztec Gold, it's named formed across the bow in green lettering, shining in the evening sun. As you get closer along the portside, you noticed a large hangar in the upper half, hover limos going in and a few going out of it, reserved for the ultra wealthy and powerful in a display of vitality and power, of wealth and charm, of very concept that to the victor goes the spoils of war.

[Frosty]

As she wraps her arms around Brock's thick forearm, she says "Ooh, a cruise gala. I've always wanted to go to one of those. Never had the occassion. The...people from our previous group, at least in *my* neck of the woods, always had lower-class entertainment planned for the girls. Now, let's try to look friendly!"

She smiles at the security guard marine. It's always nice to have the bouncers on your side at an event. As they wait to board the Aztec Gold, the prostitude medic does notice the extremely tall lethal-looking, and confident-looking amazon. She doesn't look all too friendly, however, so Tatiana decides to stay away for the time being. Tatiana makes a note to pay attention to that woman later on.

[Ralasha]

Assuming she also sees the marine, she'll give him a salutary salute as she continues on her way.

[Sarone]

The marine either doesn't recognize the salute, doesn't care, or isn't paying attention beyond his immediate duties.

As you and your escorts flow through the port and gala, the sun set providing a picturesque view of Aztec Gold. As breath taking as it is, the over head speakers buzz. "Attention all guests to Colonel Orlan's Gala. Please board the Aztec Gold in the next 15 minutes. The Aztec Gold will be lifting off in 45 minutes."

[Ralasha]

She'll climb aboard while muttering 'I have a bad feeling about this'.

[Frosty]

Tatiana also boards, along with Brock. While it is sometimes good to be fashionably late, it does not apply to takeoffs and landings.

[Ralasha]

((Sure it does, but first you'd need a space ship.))

[Sarone]

You board the ship with out incident. Once through the airlock and some minor halls, and a "short" lift ride later, you come upon the hall for the party.

For the Aztec Gold, it's exterior would be enough for the name. Once inside and in the main hall, it takes it to the extreme. While the various alloys of precious metals is present, it isnothing compared to the decadent luxuries before you. Crystal, jade, and obsidian are every where, used in light fixtures and various mosaics on the pillars and walls. As you look up, you notice a second and third level with several more guests. A brief count of the guests easily puts it at couple dozen, maybe hundreds.

On your floor, you notice that the floor goes out a few meters before it constricts to a bridge only a few meters across that has a deocratedthough functional guardrail around. On the other side there is a number of game tables and a bar.

While the ship itself would be impressive to say the least, it is nothing when compared to the action. As you look around, you notice quite few people; some mercenaries, pirates, and other scum hobnobbing with celebrities, politicians, ad officers of various legal and illegal militaries.

(Ok, I need you two to make a Perception Rolls as well as any knowledge rolls to identify the various guests as well as possible affiliation. You also add 2 dice to the Perception pools as well since you have someone with you.)

[Frosty]

Perception/Sight (+2): [roll0]
Knowledge/Dead Man's Port Criminals: [roll1]

[Ralasha]

Well, I knew I forgot something, the perception skill.
Perception+intuition+2
[roll0]

Forgot knowledge:
Soldier: [roll0]
Mercenary: [roll1]
Pilot: [roll2]

6 rerolls... apparently:
Rolling multiple dice. Sequential order of addition.
[roll0]
Soldier: (7d6)[1][2][6][4][2][1][1](17)
Mercenary: (7d6)[2][3][3][5][2][6][6](27)
Pilot: (7d6)[1][6][1][5][3][1][6](23)

[3][4][1][6][5][1][2][4][3][1]
Soldier: 1, 2, 6, 4, 2, 1, 1, 3
Mercenary: 2, 3, 3, 5, 2, 6, 6, 4, 1
Pilot: 1, 6, 1, 5, 3, 1, 6, 6, 5, 1

Alura looks at Marka. "Did you remember your sword?"


After waiting a few moments, Alura then makes her way into the crowd, even if Marka doesn't reply.