Friedrich follows along keeping an eye out for people who are interested in them.
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It all felt familiar to Friedrich. Entering the Lion's Den. Now that their party has gone this far, he knew that there wasn't any backing out. leaving his seat and going to the rear of the van, he grabbed spare materials to complete their look. "Where to next?" he said in German.
Friedrich offered a small smile to Billy. "Yes. I will try my best mein freund." he said while adjusting to his new personality. On a whole new level, Friedrich felt naked and unarmed. Without his helmet, armor, massive blade, and BTLS, Friedrich didn't appear to be the knight that he was but rather another wageslave caught in the system. The idea that he was going back to something worse that his former life gave the hulking elf shudders. He began to scratch the skin near his datajack. "Please, we need to finish this." I need to be strong."
While in the locker room, Friedrich Vanderhelm stared at his reflection in the mirror. I am a noble warrior in a different land. Tonight, I journey with my comrades in the hopes of stopping this needless bloodshed once and for all. May my blade stay true. After giving himself a once over, the knight abandoned his street gear and donned a workman's outfit. The cuffs and seams were rough and worn, giving Friedrich the impression he's been on the job many times. A name tag rested upon his shirt - Allen, which he later found out thanks to Billy. Without his helmet, Friedrich's cyber eyes glowed with bright red intensity between long black locks. He carefully pulled back his hair and fashioned a ponytail. What stood before the knight was a pale reflection of the man he was. Friedrich's massive blade, Brundhilda lay disguised within a long shaft of PVC pipes and wiring. Mein blade, we shall be reunited... Giving a toss to some random tools, he gathered a dufflebag, secured his fake SIN, and rendezvoused with Billy Chines. "I am ready. Shall we conquest?"
Friedrich felt confidence portrayed in his comrades as they discussed their options concerning the B&E. "I think we are ready to proceed."
"If Ser William were to be our social savant, I can take upon the role of a lumbering ox. This may prove to be our monument." said Friedrich as he seized up the group. Chibiko seemed small but a wealth of knowledge and experience teemed from the woman. Despite his drug addled state, Geezer may prove to be a formidable ally should he wrest his personal demons. Sighing a breath of relief, Friedrich turned to William. "Then, workers we shall be. Make the necessary calls while Chibiko acquires her friend, the decker."
"Sounds like a wise plan, Ser William. However we're forgetting one thing - Chibiko. How is she going to enter the facility without earning the watch of a guard or two?" The Brave knight rubbed his hands together and stretched which earned him a moment of ease.
"Point well made, comrade." said Friedrich as he pondered Chibiko's predicament. He turned towards his other comrades hoping for further inspiration. "Geezer, Billy...any suggestions?" Billy seemed too preoccupied with James, probably assessing details and costs for the adventure while Geezer was dozing off. Perhaps his drug addled mind. "Chibiko, looks like we'll need to pool our strength. I do have a suggestion, but it may be just crazy enough. If we are to B&E a corporate compound, why not pose as a residential transfer. We could look like a family and sneak in, have a safe room and alibi. We potentially face less problems if we're to have good ID's and luck."
Finally relieved that Friedrich was able to find the slayer's location thanks to Geezer's hard efforts, the Vigilant German Knight suggested it was best to reconvene and share notes. "Aye, thanks to Geezer's powers, we were able to locate where Cherry's accomplice lays in wait. Unfortunately, it seems to be a corporate complex as I and William were kindly encouraged to leave." Friedrich remarks how several bored security officers used colorful language and violent displays to scare them off. Maybe their ganger costumes were too successful... Allowing a moment to pass, Friedrich chimes in once more. "While I welcome storming any fortification, I do believe we should have a level of finesse to this...sortie. I fear that we shouldn't welcome any extraditionary forces on our backs considering our encounter back in the Flux States." He meant the reason why they had to leave so soon. "Would anyone have any suggestions?"
Freidrich was becoming frustrated with each turn and winding alley it took to get to the Cherry's current location - The Liebenherr Group. What made matters worse was that Billy and himself were still in disguises which raised eyebrows from any passerbyer. They couldn't just storm the entrance to raise hell...that would be a quick death. Freddy pulled his bike to the side and had a small conversation with Billy. "Yavore, that is where Cherry is staying - a garrison by the looks of it. Before we can seige it, wisdom and planning would be in order, wouldn't you agree?"
"Ya vor!" roared the knight as he twisted the throttle and sped the bike towards Geezer's direction. 3 hits
Friedrich had dodged a city bus...well, it was more like a mechanical whale which had blocked most of traffic. While their safety was ensured, Friedrich lost the tail and nearly cursed himself for the effort. I have failed my brothers... He then reared his motorcycle to a side street and began plowing through until he hit another major intersection, hoping to give Billy Chines sometime to contact Geezer and ask if he had any leads. "Ser William. Contact our comrade. Cherry's carriage has eluded me."
"Ya. Ve shuld get goin. Vundabahr!" roared Friedrich as he stood up and stretched his muscles. He waited too long to be stuck here. "Billy, hop on. We vill follow her." At this point Freddy and Billy head over towards the bike and begin following. No hits
Waiting in silence nearly drove Friedrich mad. Idleness welcomed two reactions from the Knight, a delicious BTL induced vacation, or magic practicing, both of which were not a wise choice in public. Friedrich tried to hold onto his patience after drinking what seemed like the hundredth cocktail at Soybucks. All this sugar is going to make me fat he thought as he attempted to water down his beverage. Just as he was returning to the table, something caught his eye - a crimson haired woman. Dropping his drink to the ground, he placed a heavy gauntlet upon Billy Chines and quietly muttered - achtung. Charging her in the street right outside of a Lonestar station seemed like a quick ride to hell, so instead, he attempted to see which direction she would walk towards. Perhaps the duo could tail her since she had only encountered Chibiko and Geezer.
Time to get this over... The 2 Germans headed out from the clothing store and made their way to a small cafe that overlooked the nearest Lone Star station where supposedly Cherry was taken to. "You know me full well, comrade, I'm not one to back down from a fight, but I'd rather not tackle these guards...unless I have to." said Friedrich as he settled into a chair on the outside patio. Well, it was more of a polished bucket with beads and other crappy jewerly that gave the place a island get away feeling. Other folks frequented the café as well, mostly teens aiming to be cool, or others looking for a quick escape. It didn't matter none because everyone was drinking the same crappy soy-mixed beverages that were hot or cold. Occassionaly, Friedrich could feel the eyes of the manager who didn't seem to like their casual attitude. Coupled with their recent street ware, Friedrich didn't know if the situation called for his comrade's charming personality.
Friedrich eyed the ware suspiciously. It wasn't that synthleather was against his fashion, but he felt as if he were stopping down to their level. He kept his synthleather coat, but opted for accessories that he could add on, such as patches, chains, and other metallic do-hickeys that made him more of a common street urchin. He did however managed to find a pair of pants with appropriate rips. Just as he walked away from the changing room. he saw himself and couldn't believe the sight. Producing forth a cred stick, he handed it to the clerk and attempted to look blasé, discouraging conversation.
Friedrich noded to Billy Chines and made his way to the parking lot where his valiant mechanical steed lay waiting. Even in the glow of the neon lit sign, the motorcycle seemed like a thing from legend. It's sheen had covered much of the vehicle, and it had that badass feel to it. Hopping on and twisting the throttle, Friedrich leads Billy to a nearby urban clothing shop where they can buy Miami street gear.
"We must go, Chibiko." giving a small nod to the archer, Friedrich stands up and walks towards Billy Chines. "Comrade, if we were to use trickery and deceipt, I think it would be best if you dressed as well. I can't do well being unable to speak the local tongue." The knight's hands felt tight and he clenched them. How long as he been engaged in battle? It felt like a small eternity under the guidance of Merlin.
The brave knight gave a slight nod to Chibiko and turned his attention towards Geezer. In another light, the kamikaze addict seemed like the wounded Friedrich tried dearly to protect during Modred's assault. A shallow form of a man laid upon the ground spewing bits of blood, mucus, and whatever else was in his system. To Friedrich, he knew that the task must be quick. Leaning down, Friedrich pulled out his medkit and opened it's case. Several vials of curative liquids, bandages, and body sealant laid inside. "Your friend will receive my aid." he said to Chibiko while applying first aid. 4 hits Upon seeing Geezer's relaxed expression, Friedrich wiped his brow and turned to Chibiko. "Finished. I do suggest we take care of this matter quickly, lest our quarry runs off."
With the aid of his magic, he was able to make out some threads of Chibiko's speech, though...not particularly well. "I will take upon a biker's appearance and hope to learn more about the people Cherry traveled with. But before I do so, do you wish for me to heal either you or Geezer? I am gifted in that regard."
2 hits
While Ser William seemed to be occupied with piecing together the information that the crew had acquired, Friedrich had felt out of the loop. He raised a finger in caution and gently placed it upon Chibiko's shoulder. As he did, motes of energy appeared and formed a connection between the two. How strong was a different question. 1 hit "The bikerbar that William and I had checked out seemed to point out that Cherry was in league with a large muscular man. They wouldn't give me any additional information. Miami residents are so rude!" he said while watching the girl's eyes go wide as he talked to her. "In addition, you mentioned that Cherry had aug's. This is troubling. She is first missing, and now she is armed...quite literally." Friedrich remembered from William's recap that Cherry had several troubling things on her person - one of which was a commlink. "I'd like to think we can get this cracked, however, are we on a time limit?"
The wounded that stood before the Germans reminded Friedrich of one horrible run he had in his early days. Otien, the Watcher and his comrade Belthazar of the Crown, had nearly been slain for their ambition. The duo were known for their antics and it had nearly cost them their lives. Friedrich took a moment to gauge the situation. The young girl appeared to be wounded but kept her composure - a mark of her prowess as a combatant. As for Geezer, he seemed take upon the mannerisms of a wild animal - his eyes were bloodshot, a terrible shakes erupted from the man. Truly the Miami team were a strange lot. "Alas, we should find respite." Motioning towards his bike, he summoned Ser William and Ser Geezer to his iron steed. Rather hefty and over burderned, Friedrich used his increased strength to steady the bike and guide it towards a motel nearby.
Friedrich's motorcycle camp up a ramp that lead them towards the district that the Black Bull Motel was stationed in. His motorcycle whirled towards the front of the building, and he secured his bike. "Ser William. Our comrades are in danger. We must go." The Knight walked in and saw the trail of blood that trickled down the hall. Chibiko must be here Following William's advice, Friedrich motioned upstairs where the party had stayed.
Friedrich's concentration phased when Billy's incessant tapping and eventual "FREDDY. THEY NEED HELP!" had gained his attention. Promptly reeling into the opposite lane, Freddy steered his bike between several sedans as he took a ramp off the highway back towards the direction where Geezer and Chibiko were. "Mein freund, let them know we're on our way!" he said while breaking a gate and taking a faster route through the draining tunnels.
"Ach. That is a shame." said Friedrich as he finished amusing himself. "I suppose you're right. A visit to the high end sector might be better, but we'll face real security and...I perhaps Lone Star." Lone Star didn't bother Friedrich as much as other runners, being that the knight did have a background in Ares. Those years were far gone for him to remember much. After all, he escaped to BTL's because that life was far too mundane for his taste. The 24/7 security detail and data entry hell was enough for anyone to seek escapism. "Before we move out, perhaps an update from our friends in order. You can patch me in while we grab a quick refresher. I'm in the mood for something bitter." he said while turning the bike's throttle and sending them onto the Miami streets once more.
A good while had passed since Friedrich was in contact with his comrade. Knowing full well that their secret code would alert the knight if anything should befall Billy, Friedrich instead focused his attention upon the bmw motorcycle that transported them there. Aside from his glorious blade, the bike had been a treasure of his for quite some time. Producing a rag, he began to clean it's exterior of the Miami rust and dirt. "My valiant steed." 10 minutes passed, and Friedrich wasn't about to go swinging his sword around like an idiot. Only when the time was needed would he ever brandish his magnificent blade. Leaning against his bike, Friedrich looked at his hands and thought about the magic that Merlin had taught him over the years. Some spells were destructive, and there were of course courtroom tricks. One happened to be his favorite. Small motes of bright energy formed in his hands, and he was able to conjure the image of a woman he had once crusaded with - Hilda. She was his peer in both blade and combat, but a dear friend that had helped Friedrich during his early knighthood. 2 hits
Friedrich saw the bouncer's disapproving look meant only one thing - he ain't getting in. The knight had done well not to blow up the last biker bar, so throwing a tantrum wouldn't solve any problems. Giving his partner a nod, Friedrich returned outside and found a place within the shade. Just for simplicity's sake, Friedrich buzzed his commlink a quick message to give Billy Chines security. "Any problems, contact me, Billy. I await outside."
Friedrich gave a small nod and motioned towards Billy Chimes to follow. The bar had been little success for the group. Perhaps they knew something all along. "Billy, we should check out another bar. Perhaps we'll have better luck there." Hopping upon his motorcycle, Friedrich and Billy head to Bar #2.
Friedrich remarked at the man's accuracy. Surely, he either has been gifted, or has practiced. Facing against him would be unwise. The knight simply bowed his head and told the game shark, "Perhaps another time. Thank you for your time." I need to find this person she was with. Perhaps the guardian would know By now, Friedrich has made his rounds within the bar and came full circle with the bouncer of which he passed his entrance test with flying colors. He assumed that the ork only spoke 2 languages - English, and strength. Before resorting to a physical display, Friedrich came upon him in a friendly gesture and clasped the man's shoulder, as if garnering his attention. This was all a ruse so that he could channel the proper magic to communicate. 2 hits 1 hit Once the communicae was established, Friedrich showed the Pink Mohawked Bouncer a picture of Cherry. "My friend, who did you see with this woman? I wish to challenge her escort to a contest of strength."
Ah, good. I'm putting skills that I barely used in the Vershisstandtz to use here. Arthur would be proud Allowing a moment to formulate his ideas, Friedrich stepped to the side so that he didn't disturb his guest's game. "This woman has gone missing and I'm on a quest to save her and bring her assailants to justice. The barkeep informed me she hasn't been seen for sometime, but that she was with a rather large brusque person. Praytell, do you know anything about her?" he said while showing the Elf his Cherry's image via commlink.
Friedrich gives the woman a nod and looks about the bar. Even though it was right smack in the middle of the day, there were barflies clinging to poor spirits and cheap smokes. Some folks seemed like there were straight out of a trid-comic, their faces portrayed a myriad of sullen expressions ranging from different metatypes. The knight had met little success with his encounter with the waitress and felt that he couldn't pressure her for any more information without rousing anger from the bouncer. Instead, Friedrich scanned the crowd for someone who seemed to take note of what was happening. Lifting himself from the bar, he noticed a peculiar fellow sitting near a ramshackled holo-pool table with an ar display. He was a straggly looking elf with a vintage green visor, tropical shirt, and golf shorts. The only thing that betrayed his genuinity was an obsolete looking data jack that had covered most of his head. How this fellow managed to stay in a biker bar meant that he either was a mean son of a drek, well funded, or connected! Taking a seat near him, Friedrich cocks his head and attempts to speak in Sperethiel. "Allo friend, may I have a moment of your time?" 4 hits
Friedrich turned to Billy. "IT worked! Merlin's magic always prevails!" he said while causing ruckus. To honor the moment, Freidrich down his drink in one gulp like the courageous knight he was. But something didn't feel right. He had only gotten a small taste of the magic, and he felt more curious. Tapping to his glass and producing another credstick, Freidrich leaned in and tried one more time to talk to the waitress while the magic was still in effect. "You said she was here a week or two ago. Was she alone? Did she happen to talk to anybody? Was anything she said rememberable? I need to know, please!" 1 hit
2 hits
Friedrich's eyes scanned the information that was shared via Billy Chimes on his commlink. Hm..... Of the places described, the Biker Bar seemed like the most appropriate to go for two reasons - motorcycles are an interest of the Knight and he felt that he could blend in well; and secondly, motorcycles (lol). Turning his head to Billy, Friedrich smiled motioned towards his bike. "Biker Bar is where we should head next. I feel kindred among them. I also have a curiosity I need find." Going towards the bike, he engaged the engine and straightened back in his seat. "We ride." The ride towards the Biker Bar has along the waterfront which meant that they were going to a sketchy part of town. The danger exhilarated the knight. Perhaps there other knights there, or maybe soldiers of the way. Rolling up in the afternoon, Friedrich guided his bike towards an empty spot near the entrance of the bar. Cybered eyes and tinted glasses stared at the Knight and his comrade as they made their way towards the ingress. A heavily muscled ork stood in the way. His pink mohawk glistened in the sun, and the metal fasteners and spikes gleamed. It seemed like a moment out of a trid-vid as the two stared at each other. Several bystanders stood with their hands inching towards their weapons expecting a sudden display. A few seconds pass and the mohawked ork leaned in to stare at the knight's visage. A smile formed he clapped the knight's shoulder firmly. He muttered some garbage in English and proceeded to step to the side, allowing a breathe of relaxing come in. Friedrich approached the bar and took a seat that allowed him to be close to a human waitress. Pulling out a credit, he motioned towards a crude tap nodded. The woman was curvy, riddled with piercings and chains that made her appropriate to the bar. The slight hint of breasts showed through her torn shirt and denim vest. As she leaned over to offer the knight his drink and take payment, he gently placed a hand on her arm and channeled magic.
1 hit Seeing panic rise in the woman's eyes, Friedrich quickly reassured her in English, thanks to his spell. "Mi'Lady, I mean no harm. I am from a foreign land and in order for me to talk, I needed to cast this spell." she seemed to ease, or poise herself for a concealed weapon, but before he could, Friedrich tapped his commlink to show her an image. "I am searching for this woman, Cherry. Do you know of her?"
Friedrich puffed in his helmet as he started the engine, causing it to roar with life within the garage of their hideout. A simple gesture and Billy Chines found his seat behind the burly knight. With a flick of the switch, Freddy turned the throttle and they were off! Bounding through the alley, several vermin scurried from the racket passing over garbage and homeless person alike. Billy Chines pointed a route on Freddy's navigation which lead them along a route under a massive overpass. Dark shades seemed to create a fortress of darkness during the bright Miami day. Several eyes wandered upon the duo as they passed their territory, but none were to wiser than to mess with the German force. It didn't take long for the pair to find the meeting spot. Judging by Billy's reaction, Freidrich was right to assume that they'd be there first. Taking a spot which allowed for an easy escape, Freddy rolled his bike into the shade and secured it. "Mein freund, today, we begin our crusade with our new comrades. Know this, I trust you the most of the lot." he said while adjusting the massive sword on his back. "For this endeavor, Merlin has provided for me, but know that I might call upon you. Don't let me down, brother"
After hearing the exchange between Billy Chines and the shop keeper, Friedrich hummed to himself a small prayer thanking that Merlin had helped him discover his magical talents. Hoisting the box gingerly, he could hear its contents shake around as if wanting to escape their confines. Friedrich gave the shopkeeper a slight bow and carefully bound for the door. His trip to the merchant had definitely sparked an interest into a side previously unused – magic. The knight had seldomly relied on his magic during missions with Billy Chines and Aiyan, fearing that he may have put too much strain on producing effects from the mystical world. The duo had stopped at a local joint, Marco's which served a crappy soy-bano sandwich as part of Friedrich's treat. The locals regarded the Knight and his partner with utmost scrutiny forcing the pair to make their sandwiches to go. But it didn't matter, the ride was quick. Bounding up the stairs and to his section of the apartment, Friedrich opened the box and laid its contents carefully, like an engineer before his tools. Jars of oils, candles, chalks of different hues, powders, lace, and incense were neatly organized. Giving a brief hum, the Knight took white chalk and began to inscribe geometric patterns into the floor until several circles and stars overlapped into one large circle whereby candles were placed on each point of the central inverse star. Jars were open and used to brush runic symbols as to provide assymetrical balance to the figure. The final touch was a simple chant that Merlin had taught him for what seemed like ages ago. The room's light seemed to react to the Knight's prayer as he took a seat within the center and removed his helmet. ”I devote myself to the Round and to my brother knights who fiercely uphold the Creed! I shall not parlay with evil, but route it. Should any harm befall my comrades, I am their shield. To the fairer sex, I shall be their vanguard, ever so watchful for lechers and wretches who wish to prey on them. I am Ser Lamorak, honorable knight and might of the Round!” he said as mystical energies began to channel around the knight. And aura of white, blue, and gold surrounded him as he entered a state of serenity.
During his meditation, Friedrich focused on the two spells that Merlin had given him. He unraveled their mysteries and felt their formulae become one with his essence. He envisioned a trumpet archon whose music revealed the nuances of the Babylonians. Each note symbolized a tongue unfamiliar which had joined his collective. Moments later, he saw a hydra, whose serpentine motion twisted and turned in every direction, revealing a path by which Friedrich could emulate its properties. After his ritual was done, Friedrich lay exhausted and sweating. A quick beep on his commlink and he told Merlin of his success.
A smiled formed on Friedrich's face. ”Ser William, I am ready for conquest. Rally the team!”
Friedrich nods towards Billy and beings speaking in German. "Oh sage of the green, I humble accept this to further my ends. I whole heartedly appreciate your services. Do note, these will come to good use for I am Ser Lamorak, a Knight of the Round and I am on a holy crusade!" After giving his speech, he hands over a cred stick packed with 1,000 nuyen and begins to head towards the door.
Friedrich amired the Troll Shaman's workshop. It seemed like something he had heard about from Merlin's many stories of how other magic users have made a home in this cruel world. While not completely alien, Friedrich felt a certain level of calm he hadn't experienced since his time at Merlin's circle in Germany. Tomes littered shelves, and strange lettering seemed to encompass the entire shop. Cutting straight to the chase, Friedrich took a seat near the Troll and showed an invoice for 2 spells on his commlink. "Mein freund, I wish to acquire the necessary reagents and materials to produce these spells. I will of course need to create a magical lodge, of which, I haven't had to deal with. Your time and materials are precious, so please, tell me what I need." said the knight politely.
"I understand you're a purveyor of magical items and supplies. I wish to peruse your wares, mein freund." said Friedrich in German.
It seemed like a scene out of an old trid vid whereby Billy Chines and Friedrich rode into the streets of downtown Miami in the pouring rain. The german made bike hummed in the cold evening puffing smoke that seemed the join the pollution that permeated every edifice of the city. Bright lights dulled by the overcast skies proved little indications as to where they were going. But it didn't matter to Friedrich, this was a new town and he was embolden on a mission. The tracker on his bike pointed out several directions to take, but the knight stayed to well lit areas, hoping to get a better feel of the are. A quick turn at a rather strange looking road hazard brought the duo to the back section of what looked like a small motel. The neon light buzzed, "Wattleby's" but the most of the letters seemed to be phased, giving it the impression of "at_by's". Parking his bike to the side, and having his senses tensed, Friedrich motioned towards a basement that bore strange trinkets and symbols. A brief buzz on the intercom, and he waited.
"Thankyou mein freund! I will put these tools to use! Please, allow the 'Round' to learn of my exploits. Ser Lamorak continues away!" said Friedrich as finished his commlink and awaited the delivery. The next step would be to imbue the magic properly. Friedrich didn't trust his magic with any would be person - so he was left with little choice - he'd have to create his own magic circle. It seemed fitting anyway considering that his half of the apt was empty save for cracked walls and holes. To begin the process, he'd have to find a trustworthy talismonger to buy the proper supplies to make the magic happen. The Knight then walked over to Billy Chines, who sat huddled by a window looking through the blinds contemplating their next move. "Mein freund, we shall make those heathens pay for the horrible attrocities they have wrought! However, I need your aid, comrade! Merlin has helped me with magic that can aid my understanding of this country's tongue, among others. Can you ask James if there is a local Talismonger that we can trust? I suppose it would be troublesome to enter a shop with no idea what they can say."
Their meeting with the new client and team had left Friedrich embolden on another crusade. He didn't think he could find purpose so quickly in a different land. Miami had been a dark land so far, drowned by a torrent of rain and basked in the glow of AAA corps. Though some of the symbols seemed familiar, he couldn't understand the words that littered every building he came across. Sticking to his confidant, Friedrich joined Billy downstairs and entered their ride. A few words were exchanged as the knight otherwise spent his time contemplating how the group should go about saving the damsels. Billy Chines knew that a silent Friedrich only meant tone thing – a deep anger had awoken. It seemed like a treacherous path as the vehicle took a turn into a dark alley and bound down towards an opening. A moment later, and he pulled out of the ride and bound into the new apartment. Rickety stairs led to an otherwise s&#~ty looking living place complete with two rooms! It was like they were back at home in Germany! Pulling his stuff towards the larger of two bedrooms, Friedrich propped himself against a nearby wall riddled with holes and scratches and removed his helmet. Pulling his hair to the side and wiping away rain, Friedrich's eyes adjusted to the low light of the room. I need aid. I doubt my allies can provide for me. Pressing his commlink, Friedrich dialed the one number that he could rely on at any given time. A fanciful tune played as Merlin's ID showed up on his contact list. ”Hallo Merlin, ich bin jetzt in einem anderen Land! Es scheint, dass ich in einem neuen Kreuzzug mit meinen Kolleginnen, William Chines. Ich bin, eine Metzgerei, die Frauen für Profit erschlägt besiegen und ich brauchen dringend Ihre Hilfe! Ich kann die lokale Sprache nicht verstehen! Hätten Sie etwas, das mir helfen kann? Außerdem muss ich schneller sein! Welche Zauberschriftrollen können Sie mir mit?” Translation: “Hello Merlin, I am in a different land now! It appears that I'm in a new crusade with my fellow, William Chines. I am to vanquish a Butcher who slays women for profit and I desperately need your help! I cannot understand the local language! Would you have anything that can aid me? In addition, I need to be quicker! What magic scrolls can you provide me with?”
The knight's eyes widened at the horrible scene of visceral carnage. In no right mind should a woman ever suffer such a fate. If any person could develop an arousal to such horrific acts, they were surely beyond redemption. A fire erupted within Friedrich. There was no greater evil than the torture and exploitation of the fairer sex. Prompty standing up, he drew his massive blade and stabbed the ground while yelling in German. "Nur ein Bube wäre eine solche schrecklichen Taten so vile zu tun! Ein Schuft und Meineid als er die ultimative Zorn ins Gesicht! ". Translation:
"Only a knave would do such horrible acts! A wretch so vile and perjured as he shall face the ultimate wrath! I, Friedrich Vanderhelm, Knight of the Round, Crusader of Justice, and Protector of Women will go on this quest to stop this horrible incursion!" Eyes around the room focused on his action as the stalwart knight broke his calm demeanor. He stood before his client, James, puffing and trying his best to keep his resolve. Further Translation:
Drek's about to get real
The transition to Miami had been an unwelcomed one. Friedrich had hoped for sunny beaches and warm weather, but instead had received tumultuous rain that didn't seem to end. At least in Germany, the cold was welcoming. Billy Chines had done most of the talking, well, actually all of it because Friedrich didn't understand English. The Brave Knight had no problem back at home, but now, he had truly felt like an outsider as everyone around him spoke in a different tongue. More importantly, he was within a small office upon the top floor of some office building. The whole experience felt strange to him. For starters, the entire conversation was in a different language that he didn't understand. He could tell by the gestures that things were going well because of Billy Chines' demeanor. Perhaps he was an old friend, or a new lead. At one point, Billy's friend had sized up the knight, and Friedrich felt happy that he was acknowledged. "Sei Gegrüßt! Ich bin Friedrich Vanderhelm, geschätzte Ritter der Runde und Kreuzritter der Gerechtigkeit! Ich danke Ihnen für den Durchgang über. Ich hatte gehofft, dass Miami wäre schöner, aber ein Ritter nie beschweren! Eine Klinge von Sir Williams für Sie da!" In the meantime, he preoccupied himself by sitting upon the couch and wore a focused look. Seeing that his words suffered from translation, he turned to Billy and asked him to translate. "Ser William, share my gratitude with our esteemed host." The doors opened, and Friedrich almost went to alarm until he saw a small humanoid approach. Judging by her appearance, she seemed to be the daughter of perhaps Billy's friend, or the receptionist. A girl was still a lady, and they deserved honor and respect. Turning his head, he sized the new arrival and thought to himself. A bud unblossomed....thousest a peculiar one indeed. Could she have ill portents? A witch? I will have to learn more about her Friedrich gave a nod and regarded the new arrival with interest. "Hallo. Sind Sie ein Freund von Sir William?"
Friedrich eyed the small plane cautiously. On his way over, he had marveled the size of the larger aircrafts and their splendor but when faced with the small jet, his hopes had dropped. Before he could utter a word, this was a favor from Billy Chines and the knight knew well enough to not cast pearls before the swine. "Very well mein freund, we maketh our way to a new world." he said while slowly stepping forward. It felt very surreal that he would no longer be in Germany, but far away in a distant land. The cold air seemed to give him one long embraced before he ascended the staircase and saluted the pilot. "Yavore! The cold is the reminder of our life!" he said while entered the plane.
Friedrich considered Billy Chine's suggestion. A smile formed on the knight's face. In mere moments, Friedrich imagined himself upon a sandy beach, surrounded by a harem of women of all metatypes laying at his feet, offering dishes contained various drugs, roasted meats of which accompanied goblets of dark beer. A particular elven maiden caressed his chin as she changed his burnt out btl chip a new one. The vision seemed tantalizing as one woman started to polish his greatsword. With a small cough and reddened face, Friedrich's grin widened and he nodded in approval. "Ser William, thouest a purveyor of splendid ideas! This shall be a crusade of respite!" Hopping in step, the knight began to create one drek of a racket as he began packing for the long journey.
After waiting several days, Friedrich's commlink buzzed with the news that the commlink his team had found was no treasure... It took a moment for the stalwart knight to realize what had happened. "Ser William, we...are..." before he could continue, the knight stood up and walked towards a nearby window. "It appears that this treasure...is cursed. My fixer revealed that greater forces that we know are in league with this device. I fear that great calamity approacheth." To Friedrich, the commlink no longer looked like the device it was intended to be, but rather a smoldering enchanted object who served as a an eye peering into his world. A strange object, possibly crafted and blasphemed by the most foul hagravens and their ilk were no doubt in league with the team's downfall. Turning in step, he picked up the commlink and looked upon Billy Chines. "Ser William, to prevent our downfall, we must find another take this...device. If we destroy it here, knows to come here!"
"Agreed" Pulling himself from the bar, Ser Lamorak towered over some of the patrons who had been enjoying their libations and social encounters. With one mission done, the noble knight was far from completing his conquest. Bidding the barmaiden a farewell, Ser Lamorak bound for the door and say Aiyan carrying his beloved blade. Reunited with his weapon, he lead the team back to the Vershitstadtz to ponder their next move. - - - -
Ser Lamorak bound for the chair, ripped off his helmet in a frenzy and scratched at his head until he found the data port. In mere seconds, a small chip pops out of his head and he tosses it into the corner. A small sizzle comes off its semicondunctors as he congeales into a hot mess. Kept in too long. The world seemed different now. Instead of lush greenery, strong masonry, and a culture from a bygone era, Friedrich Vanderhelm was faced with the harsh reality of the 6th world. Cold seeped into his skin like an ex-lover's embrace, the lights flickered in random patterns as if trying to toy with his mind, and he could hear the ambience of the kiez. When...will the next crusade come... Laying back in his chair, he remembered that he had a fancy commlink from a recent mission. Hm...not ours. But who's could it be? Friedrich vaguely remembered what little he learned and decided the best course of action was to solve the mystery. "Allo Herr Schmidt, I've come into possession of a comm link with serious encryption. I need to know what's on it."
Friedrich breathed a sigh of relief as the schmidt had left the bar. "On occasion mein freund, after worketh with jackals so long, I findeth hoods pulled over many folks at any timeth." said the knight as he eased into the chair. While this one job was finished there still laid the mystery of the second commlink. Its technical aspects were beyond his expertise as well as the party's. Fiddling with the device, he turned it on for good measure. Perhaps someone was after it, or maybe it was commlink of the Oxycode's assassin. Either way, he'd have to find a suitable technologist to uncover its contents. Turning his head, he noticed Ser William ogling the fine metatypes of the bar, particularly a troll woman who had a serious rack. Compared to her, Ser William looked like a rock in the stream, but that's all he needed if he was to perform the Ursula. Ser Lamorak quickly approached his comrade before he could continue his hunt. "Ser William, before you begin your Love Conquest, perhaps you haveth a freund skilled with technology? I wish to learn the importance of the device before you fornicate."
"Be still mein fruend" said Friedrich as he tried to ammend the situation. He pointed to pocket on his massive leather coat with an armored finger. "Nein problems. Look.". Slowly and carefully, he produced the Sony Emperor and placed it on the counter. "Apologies. The first commlink was something I recovered on my crusade. A pittance, nothing more."
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