GM Tsuga canadensis's page

”You can keep your f#$$ing mouth shut. You don't know a g#&~+#n thing. Understand? Not a g@%#+&n thing."

Kojo: "Okay man. Chill! We here to help, not ruin your plan. If helping means keeping silent, then that's how it is."

Fast Forward >>>

”Your balls. Follow orders and maybe I'll give em back when we're done.”

Jack examines the four soldiers before him. Two Cassidy's, two Monroes, two of us... Not much of a wholesome group, here, is it? What are you doing, old man? Gonna get yourself killed by these a#+%!@*s or the freaks out there roaming the streets.

”This is a simple job. Don't start a f~**ing thing unless I give the word. Guns are last resort. Silence is the difference between life and death, got that. Silence is everything. Avoid conflict at all f&$~ing cost. Know your place. Follow me and live to see another f+~@ing needle in your arm. Do that or die. Your call. Any questions, now's the time; otherwise we get rolling.”

Adrian assigned Bridie(F) and Conall(M). Ira assigned Don(M) and Jake(M). This is here just for quick reference.

The four soldiers look unimpressed. Your commanding words bounced off of them like rubber. They looked to each other and snickered a bit before turning toward the direction of the gate.

Kalyna: "I think they're going to be hard to get a long with. Between you and me, Jack, I bet they will save each other before they even consider saving us. I'm just saying, we need to stick closer than ever, like we did at the hospital."

The GFK that were guarding the gate had a quick chat with Bridie. She appeared to hand them something wrapped in cloth. The soldier opens it a little and gives his comrade an agreeable nod. They open the gate for your party. One of the soldiers grabs you by the arm and says, "Don't bring anyone back with you. I don't care how healthy they look. You are not to bring back any survivors out there.... got that?"

The gate opened up to a bridge filled with abandoned vehicles. Many of the cars have makeshift signs attached to them with confessions and famous last words, as well as pleas for mercy to people's gods. There is a wall of stacked cars further ahead about 30ft. The only way to get through is the climb through the cars themselves.

How do you proceed?

Stacey Keach also comes to mind.

Hahaha. Nice photo. To be honest, I like the other one better. This one changes my whole perspective on Jack. Before I saw Jack as Walker Texas Ranger, and now I see him as Jesse Ventura.... oh right, never mind. You made the right choice.

Kalyna: "It seems your meeting with the Cass-Mons went well, but not well enough. You think they may be up to something?"

Kalyna: "I'll get things squared away here. The people will want to know where we were all day, so I'll tell Gwen what to tell them. She's still out cold, believe it or not. She's usually up by now. But anyways, when you get to Coven territory, make sure to ask for Kojo. I don't mean to sound like a pretentious whore, but drop my name and you're sure to get a relatively warm welcoming. Oh, and here. Use these to trade with. The Coven have guns, but they're running out of some basic chemicals, which we still have plenty of. Told ya it was a good thing to loot the school, save for losing those three perverts from Charlie's group down the street."

Charlie's just an arbitrary neighbor down the street. No one important.

This stockpile of chemicals was retrieved when you and Kalyna were sent on a supply run two months ago when you couldn't pay the supplies tax. Though you thought her weird at first, Kalyna immediately recommended looting a high school. Unfortunately it was not unoccupied. It is safe to say the most terrifying thing you have seen since Daystar (the day the meteor pummeled the Earth) is the clawing and biting children found in the school. Unlike the slow-moving sloths, the children moved with incredible speed and agility. Luckily you two had a team of three other guys with you, and before you ask, no they didn't make it. It's probably why you both survived that day. The sacrifice was worth it, though. In the chemistry lab were a wide variety of chemicals, seeming virtually useless to anyone who had been in the school before. But to a biochemist and a detective, basic chemicals have more value, as well as more meaning. You have used these chemicals to make basic medicines among other things, but today they are going to be used to trade with the Coven.

She hands you tupper-ware containers filled with an assortment of contents. The containers are nearly identical to each other, probably because the chemicals can only be stored in certain materials.

"If there has been no inflation and deflation since yesterday, which you know is possible, then this should give you the equivalent of like... $400 maybe? In the context of the old economy, of course." She pulls out her pack of cigarettes and shakes it around to get a quick count of what she has left. "Aaaand, I know it isn't priority, but it kind of is.... maybe get a pack or two from them? Should be relatively cheap now because Gwen reluctantly told me Joe's supply run came back with a s++$-ton of cartons."

You two agree to meet at the North Gate. Coven territory is further away than the Heartwood where you met with Ira and Adrian, but the road is better protected. However, your trek is not uneventful. A small group of GFK's took out a group of 10, maybe 12 sloths near another subway entrance. The plug, made up of cars and other heavy debris, has been removed. Immediately after they soldiers subdue the threat, a Humvee drives into a car in order to push it back into the hole. The soldiers let you pass by without harassment.

You are welcome to stop and inquire about the situation if you'd like, but I'm going to continue further with the post.

It didn't take long to see Kojo. He welcomed you respectfully, knowing of your close relationship with Kalyna. He respects you because you are someone that is looking out for her. It has never been confirmed, but you're confident the Kojo and Kalyna are intimate with each other.

He shows you his wares. The Coven has a relatively decent set up for a shop with a wider variety of supplies compared to other vendors, though they lack the abundance.

You are able to buy up to $350 dollars (gold) worth of supplies. Feel free to also trade in items you have on your person for their full value.

In addition to what you purchase, Kojo reveals a sheathed blade he pulled out from on top of a display case. It is a machete with a wooden handle, wrapped in cloth tape. Though it looks as if it's had some use, you feel this tool is tempered rather than exhausted. It certainly is of higher quality than a machete one can find at Wal-Mart.

"I want you to give this to Kalyna for me. She told me what you're planning and I'm sure you know we're all about it. I just want to make sure she survives, ya know? She'll need more than that f$@+in' toothpick in case she runs into trouble with the GFK. If your plan goes right, it shouldn't come to that."

"Before you take off, my man... how's the dog doin'? That's another little something I gave to Lady Lavigne yesterday, but I told her it's for everyone, not just her. You'd be surprised what a pet can do for people's morale during these times. I never gave him a name, though. We've been breeding them so you kind of don't want to get attached by givin' them names. Just always know... treat a dog well and they will treat you well. As our breeder here always says, 'Canines are mirrors'. Anyways, I'm keeping you. I hope this plan works out, for the sake of the city. Let me know if I can help in anyway other than just supporting the cause."

Feel free to interact. Moving forward. Just so you know, because it has been a while, Kalyna never told him about going over to Manhattan because she didn't find out until both of you returned to the apartment complex. He just knows you both are staging a coup.

Your deal went very well. Kojo asked one of the men to escort you out of their territory. You are slightly late in arriving at the North Gate, but not by much. Kalyna is playing hacky sack with some kids nearby and the four men you are to meet are smoking cigarettes by the gate.

"What's in the purse Jacky-boy?" says one of the men.

Kalyna notices you have arrived and catches the her hacky sack as it is in the air. "Sorry my little cherubs, but this gal has to go find some drugs. It was lovely playing with you all." She starts to walk toward the gate as the kids wave bye solemnly. With a sudden pause, she pivots on her heels and heads back toward the kids, throwing the sack in the air and catching it. "Okay. I'm going to give this to you all. This does not belong to either one of you, rather I am leaving it here, in this spot, available to who ever enters this spot and decides they want to sack a hack. This sack is on loan. I'm going to go over that f~~+ing bridge and get drugs. If I am not back by tomorrow at dusk, then the sack is yours communally. Until then, you're just babysitters. Comprendre?"

She flashes a peace-sign and makes her way to the gate.

Meow.

As you may have noticed in the discussion section, I gave you Rotten Ed's Bloodied Bat. I am retcon-ing a scene where he hands you his bat, explaining that it has always given him luck. It is clear he believes in your plan more than Adrian or Ira do, and he wants to see you live. His gesture is definitely one of trust... or perhaps it's only an investment?

You currently have the following on your person:

Colt Python .357 Revolver with six bullets and 6 to spare.

Beretta 92F 9mm Autoloader with full clip. No spare ammunition.

Dog Tags from the Gulf War. They allow you to tap into reserves of strength, allowing you to do either of the following once per long rest.
- +1/2 level dmg to one melee atk.
- Negate an amount of exhaustion points equal to 1/2 level. Effect lasts for a number of hours equal to your level + CON mod.

Rations (2)

Filled Water Bottles (2)

Multi-tool.

+1q Rotten Ed's Bloodied Baseball Bat
dmg: 1d8
Versatile - deal 1d10 dmg if used two handed.
Solid Oak - critical range is 19-20.
(The "q" stands for "quality", which adds the bonus to atk and dmg rolls of the weapon).

Your departure from the bar was uneventful and somewhat awkward. It was clear the leaders of the Cassidy-Monroes respected you, but whether or not they like is up for debate. Men like them don't get a long with others of their kind; their kind being those ahead of the herd. Naturally, you are a threat because you are ambitious, and ambitious men don't usually ally themselves. Though your intentions are genuine, your alliance with the Cassidy-Monroes is more akin to employment. Passive WIS(insight) success. It may be wise to have a contingency plan.

It was nearing time to be back at the apartment. Your trek is uneventful. As you walk by the shop near the breached subway entrance, you notice there are some Cassidy-Monroes trying to plug the hole back up. They are utilizing a Bobcat (small landscaping machine with a large bucket for scooping).

Your timing was perfect as Kalyna meets you at the apartment door. She has with her a small puppy, only about a month old. It is clear she is in a good mood, which means her meeting went in your favor, and it has nothing to do with getting a puppy out of it. She says the Coven has agreed to participate in the coup, but they demand leadership. Now that both the Coven and the Cassidy-Monroes vie for the Chromatic Throne, war will be eminent unless something is done. She reassures you that the circumstances are still in our favor because the Coven outnumber the Cassidy-Monroes, and they have promised us entry into their ranks as officers in addition to other gifts. She puffs on her cigarette and takes a moment to scope out the scenery on the streets.

The streets are moderately filled with people preparing to emigrate. People are forming groups and preparing caravans for the short trip to Outer City; their fate entirely at the hands of the wasteland beyond the wall. Some groups seem to cooperate better than others, as was evident when two grown men got into a gruesome fist-fight over a water bottle filled with petroleum. This is one of multiple examples that you witnessed throughout the night. You toss and turn on the couch as the sounds of shouting, and even gunshots, rattle your ears. It took you back to the Gulf War; the intensity, the passion, the rage. You have to survive now, just as you did then. The unforgivable things you had to do back then somehow made sense now. It was your life, or theirs. You know there would be more nights like this, and you know the only way to survive is to survive. Just then, your eyes shut, and you fell asleep. A resolution is always comforting...

You are to meet the assigned men from Ira and Adrian at the North Gate at 7:30am.

You wake up around 6:00am to find a substantial breakfast made for you, Kalyna, and Gwen. The people of your complex have unexpectedly decided to show the three of you their gratitude by offering some of their precious resources. In addition to food, the portion that are emigrating made you all gifts. Some are very simple, such as paper cut-outs or drawings, but others are quite nice. As is true to nature, these gifts do not benefit just you, as getting rid of this stuff will help lighten the load of the emigrants. No one is completely altruistic these days, it would seem.

As far as you know, the people are unaware of what you three have planned. Unless some loud mouth b*$+* told everyone...

Regardless, it is clear your people appreciate the three of you, especially you, Jack. Whether you consciously chose the position or not, you are a leader. Since the fall of the American government as it is known, many people rose up out of the flock to govern the rest. It's a strange nature of a social organism, but it's clear and near biological that there are those whom are inherently submissive to ambitious individuals. Your situation was not exempt from nature. Since you are a powerful man, both physically strong and wise, your rise to leadership was virtually organic. The pillars have collapsed, and new governments were forming, both big and small. Your apartment complex, once a mere affordable form of shelter, has now become your small kingdom of sorts. Because of your resourcefulness and wisdom, it was only natural that your pillar would rise (heheh) as the older ones crumbled.

You have 1.5 hours before you meet with the Cassidy-Monroes at the North Gate. Take this time to free roam, dowhatchuwant. As part of the deal Kalyna made, the Coven are willing to barter a few of their weapons and ammunition, and even some other supplies one going over the wall might find useful. Even still, you are a resourceful bunch, and these supplies may be able to be created in the field.

Kalyna: "Since I couldn't sleep last night, I figured I'd finish up the radios. Here." She grabs two crude looking devices out of her cardboard box full of scrap she keeps next to the breakfast table. She shows you how to clip the radio to your undershirt, and points out a q-tip shaped appendage she claims to be the microphone. The other piece looks like a typical 21st century earpiece that fits snug in the ear. "Too activate it, you just squeeze this thing..." she says as she presses a small white disc between her thumb and index finger, like the plastic button found inside dancing stuff animals that come alive with a press on their heart. "Test... test... Jack's a f%#... test, test. Is it working, queer?"

:-D

You hear her exact words come through on the other earpiece.

While playing this game, try to imagine you're playing Fallout. You can fast-forward time while in a safe zone, and you can also fast-travel with chances of a random encounter. So you could "fast-travel to the Coven HQ and we can save on the repetitive details.

Jack

You pondered the deal a little bit. Knowing that unknown consequences could occur should you decide not to enlist their help, seeing as they have your entire plan, you decide it is best to follow through with it. Perhaps with a smaller group, you could move throughout Manhattan unnoticed.

You all gulp down your shots. A deal had been made and to break it could mean your life.

Adrian: "It's settled. Lets set out tomorrow morning. You'd think the cover of night would be better but those things seem to be more energetic at night. I'll assign Bridie and Conall to you from my end. They're some of my best soldiers. Hopefully that's enough indication that I want your plan to succeed. Who will you provide, Ira?"

Ira contemplates for a few moments as he pets his big mustache: "I'll give him Don and Jake. They're the most sober of the bunch. Meet the group by the bridge tomorrow at 7:00am. If you succeed with this, we'll help you change the face of Barrier City."

Your time with the Cassidy-Monroes was interesting. In no other point in your life would you have thought you would run to gangs for help, save for a select few informants. But the deal was done, and you still had a couple of hours before Kalyna is supposed to be back at the apartment.

I definitely want to do this game more sandbox style, so you have some time to do whatever. Or, you can just head back to the apartment. Kalyna is still meeting with the Coven. Let me know where you want to go and how you will spend the time and I will create the environment for that to happen in. Also, just wanted to check if you still plan on GMing for Kalyna. If not, no big deal.

Gin and lemonade? Is that a good combo?

Ira leans back in his chair for a moment with pensive, aimless stares.

"You're a bold one, Jacky," said Rotten Ed with a grin.

Adrian leaned forward onto the table. His delay in response seemed to irritate Ira, who quickly stood up and through his chair against the wall like a madman. "You're not even considering this dead man's offer! He can't provide what Othello can!"

"You mean your drugs, Ira?"

"No, Adrian! My men's drugs."

"I think you need to calm down." Adrian gives Ira a brave order. Though they are equals in rank, there seems to be something more here that keeps them working together and keeps Ira in check. "There hasn't been many coming in lately."

Ira interjects, "Othello needs to move into Manhattan!".

"If I may say somethin' sirs," says Rotten Ed, "Othello is the... practical type, wouldn't you say? With all do respect, your men would burden him."

"The f!+! are you tryin' to say?"

"We must be diplomatic," says Adrian in an attempt to calm Ira's nerves. "What Ed is saying is that your men are more than likely going to be the first to cross the bridge. Not the Independents."

"And why the f$%& is that!?" Ira raised his voice. Clearly you were stirring the pot...

Adrian hesitated before answering. "You're a leader, Ira. You must consider these things, even if it hurts you personally. Who would you rather have in your ranks? Clearheaded, obedient soldiers? Or reckless brawlers suffering from withdrawals?"

"My men are brave! The the word 'fear' does not exist in their vocabulary."

"That is true, no doubt. But what do you think Othello prefers? That's the issue, Ira. It's not a personal attack from me. If anything, I'm looking out for you."

Ira stood there with angry eyes, his chest puffed and fist clenched. He is a primal man. The epitome of testosterone. You compared his culture to that of ancient Spartans. Judging from their discussion, it was clear Ira's men lost their way from this culture, and at some point gave in to heavy drugs.

The hulk's chest deflated and his fist opened up. Adrian's words had succeeded in taming the beast. "I knew it from the beginning. The Union wouldn't last. Not in this world. There's too much competition." Ira grabs the bottle off the table and pops the cork. "Listen here, Jacky. If we go with your plan, there's a chance people will die. I want to make sure the right ones do. But there's still the issue with my men. They are loyal to me; they would die for me. You can't control them without me. The only way I will be involved in this 'coup' is if you can guarantee supplies."

"And how do you expect him to do that, sir?" said Rotten Ed.

"He'll lead a scouting party into Manhattan. If he can't find anything, then this coup isn't worth the risk. I'd lose everything if I lose my men. They need to ween off, or we'll all be paying for it."

Ira has an uncharacteristic compassion for his men.

"That's fair," says Adrian, "We certainly don't have the numbers to see this through without your support."

"So Jack, there you go. Not sure what contingencies you have in place should your plan cave. But without the Cassidys, you don't have the Monroes. We know you're taking a risk, so we'll provide what we can for you in terms are firepower. Do you have a group in mind?"

"Him and his lady-friend cleared a large group of Them with energy to spare. I attest to their capability," chimed in Ed.

"What do you say Ira? We'll send two of each of our men. A joint effort to change the face of Barrier City."

Without hesitation, Ira agreed and poured three shots of The Negotiator. "Are these terms agreeable to you, Jacky" said Ira in a more respectful tone.

In summation, the only way the Cassidy-Monroes will help you is if you go into Manhattan and find a substantial stash of drugs. Opiates are preferred. If you agree, take your shot. Just remember, you're dealing with a dangerous gang. Sure, they're civil with you, but don't forget the Cassidys are mosagonist ruffians and the Monroes are ruthless anarchists. Both comfortable with committing murder. Your choices will change the face of Barrier City and the fate of your group. Going into Manhattan means I will throw enemies at you that will have relatively high CR's. I won't make it impossible, but you will be taking a decent sized risk to your lives. As you probably know, there is no Golden Trail in my games, so other options are available to you, even ones I haven't mentioned that you can think of.

Boy, you lucky you rolled a nert twern. Still... doesn't mean your ass is in the clear! >:-D

Judging from their body language, Ed has a look of oh my god did he just say that?, Adrian seems pensive, and Ira looks somewhat irritated. Your sense motive reveals Ed(helpful), Adrian (indifferent), and Ira (indifferent... but irritated).

"Soldiers is it? You want soldiers?" says Adrian. He gives a quick glance around the room. He's clearly thinking about something.

"Lets move this to the back."

Ed grabs The Negotiator and the three shot glasses and takes your beer away before you can finish it. He leads with Adrian behind him and you following Adrian. Ira picked up the back, walking uncomfortably close to you. The people in the bar said nothing but gave curious stares as you walked by. You hear two fingers snap from Ira, and two of his Cassidy goons follow you all.

A single door is located underneath the stairs. On the other side is an unaesthetic room with a hanging ceiling light and a long table with six chairs. Ira pulls a chair out and rushes you into it with a strong pinch on your deltoids (sp - I forgot what that muscle is between the shoulder and the neck).

Adrian looks to the goons and sternly commands "Everything discussed in this room never happened. If I catch you two saying anything, I'll take away your 'allowance'. I'm sure that would be a fate worse than death for you."

"Let me command my men, Adrian," said Ira. His voice calm but stern.

"Clearly your men can't be commanded. Apparently our reputation is faltering once again. We aligned to save our communities from dissipating. Let's face it, Ira. There needs to be more changes around here."

"Oh yeah? And what makes you think this tough-talkin' c%%$ can change anything? The Independents have no say in the C.U. There's nothing they can bring to the table."

Ed chimes in, "That's true, boss. But it's only true given the current state affairs. It could be different."

"Did I ask you, old man? I'm talking to Adrian." Ira responded with much venom.

"Lets settle. We're not helping our reputation this way are we? We don't even know what Jack has to say but I have a feeling I know what it's going to be...."

"I really don't know why we're wasting our time. If it were just me in control, I'd have caved your face in with my boot for even thinking about laying a finger on my men."

Adrian ignores Ira's last comment and turns his attention to you. "Alright Jack..." says Adrian as he pops the cork from The Negotiator. The bottle's label is fashioned from masking tape and a sharpie-marker. "...let's hear your proposal."

"Stop! Not yet!" roared Ira, "Why the f$%* is he armed?!"

"Because everyone is these days! F#@+ing christ! Jack, do us a favor. Hand your guns over to the gentlemen behind you."

Your perceptive mind tells you that Honora might be helpful. So far you've earned some respect from both her and Rotten Ed. Perhaps due to your dealings with gang members and the like, you've developed a sense of their psyche and are better able to influence them.

"Hah! Mick's a bastard alright! Even under that jacket o' yours I can tell yer packin' more meat than a German deli! 'Ere, lemme top you off." Just as she grabs your glass to refill it, you see Rotten Ed step out of a door from the second floor, which is located on a balcony with stairs leading to the room where you are currently sitting in.

You see a young man follow behind him. It's hard to tell by the way he carries himself all bold and confident, but you can't imagine he's older than his late twenties. Another man follows behind him who is much older. Perhaps closer to your age, if not older. The younger one is wearing a nice black suit with no tie and a white button-down dress shirt, while the older man is wearing a tight black t-shirt and some grey slacks. The older one is covered in tattoos and sinister jewelry and grows a nicely trimmed mustache that extends down to his neck. The younger one is clean shaven and baby-faced with brown hair. You assume him to be Adrian, the heir to the Monroe family dynasty, and the older is assumed to be Ira, the ring-leader of the sadistic Cassidys.

"This the man?" said Adrian; no accent present. He spoke American English.

"Aye. Shall we meet in the back room?"

"It's not necessary."

"What if he tries something funny? Best to keep him in closed quarters," added Ira.

"With all do respect, boss. It's safest to keep this one at a distance." Rotten Ed throws you a grin and a wink and then directs Ira's attention to Mick.

"F@@~. Well Ed. Mind telling me why in the f@%~ you didn't bash his head in with that blood-stained bat of yours?"

"Again, with respect, we are business men. And Jack here would like to talk business."

"I want to hear what he has to say. Must be important to go through all the trouble. Besides, you said they helped you with the plug?"

"Aye. Him and his fireball of a girlfriend. The things that crept out could have overwhelmed us. They helped when they didn't need to."

Adrian looked at Ira without saying a word, then all three began to make their way down the stairs. Honora grabbed a third shot glass and placed it on the bar in front of you. Ira walked up to the girl who was scoping you out and grabbed her by the arm. He yanked her out of the stool without saying a word. As if she were only an obstacle, a fly in his soup, and not a human being. He sat down where she was. Honora was clearly put off by Ira. Adrian sat on the stool to the right. Honora left from behind the bar and Rotten Ed took her place. The surrounding gang members just went about their business, not knowing the situation at hand.

Ira got in close. He is a big man. His gut began to stick out but you could tell he took care of himself for the most part. He has arms the size of your leg, and a face that looked like it could take a brick to it without flinching.

"Why didn't your friend come?"

Nice role on the Persuasion check. Her disposition toward you improves. For the sake of immersion, I will not reveal exactly where the dispositions lie. You can roll a "sense motive" check DC 20 to know their exact disposition toward you, which would give you insight as to the best way to deal with a particular person.

Honora says, "Hah! It's a luxury we've kept the whole time! You haven't frequented the Heartwood enough apparently. But no, not many Independents patron this place. Our doors aren't closed to them. But our reputation repels some folk. A few open-minded and brave ones come here. Some make the mistake of being disrespectful and never return here. Hah! But you seem composed enough. Though I have to ask... what in the f@+$ happened to Mick?"

Grant, if ya don't mind, can you post what you have written here in the Gameplay tab? That way your profile gets added to the Players tab.

Nice! I like the picture. Very fitting for your character :)

Floating glimmering translucent neon butterfly trail ;)

Please post all major out of character (OOC) comments in this thread. Exchange ideas, discuss battle plans, or just talk about yourselves as much as you want!

This story takes place in the year 4720 in the world of Golarion, six years after the current year in the Pathfinder universe. Our heroes are field commissioned by the mysterious Pathfinder Society to find a series of ancient tomes, including the Book of 1,000 Whispers, and a Taldan woman who is believed to be a descendant of Aroden. Their motives are unknown but the pay is convincing enough to attract even the noblest of individuals. Enjoy a setting where fanatical dwarves uncover the mystery of firearms and explosives, and the reclusive Technic League emerges as a recognized power in the Inner Sea Region. This campaign will take you all over Golarion, full of extensive or abbreviated dungeon delves, immersive exploration, shocking and interactive battle mechanics, and an overarching plot that will bring to end an unwritten chapter in the Pathfinder universe. This campaign is rated R (sex, use of drugs and alcohol, gore and violence, and swearing).

Rotten Ed looks shocked. He wasn't expecting such a bold proposal. His facial expressions shifted from disgruntled, to solemn, and disgruntled again. Clearly he is uneasy about what he just heard.

"Seems evry'one is out fer his head. The draft is only the straw that broke the camel's back. Come. You'll want to talk to Adrian. If only for him to smack some sense into ye."

You three continued walking. Rotten Ed handed Mick the black-bag to cover his nose from bleeding out. Milo eventually caught up, still twitching as he tirelessly swatted at the rain that probably felt like hail under withdrawal conditions. After about 30 feet of walking, Mick asks you to give him his gun back. You made him give you yours first and Milo gave you back your Python, but before handing back the SMG, you discharged the mag and lobbed it down a nameless alley way full of rubble, making it virtually impossible to find. "Consider it a mercy," you said as you handed the gun back to him.

"Ah. Now ye truly have the upper hand don't ye, Jack? Very well. We'll do this yer way. Onward then."

As you got closer to the Heartwood, more and more Monroes were seen patrolling the streets, though the rain kept most inside. They sheltered themselves under fortified lean-to's, and some of them had rain catchers with them. Many people took the opportunity to capture water from the sky. Since Cryzoloth's collision with the Earth, rain seemed to be more frequent.

You received many stares from the Monroes. They didn't seem to approach you however, probably due to their trust in Rotten Ed. After a few minutes, you finally approached the Heartwood. The street that it is located on looks more like a battlefield compared to the other streets, most likely due to the Street Wars. The logo was etched in a large slab of wood with big letters and riddled with bullet holes. Two guards stand at the entrance. They step aside and let you and your company through without hassle, though not without some questioning glares.

"Cheers, mates. Has Adrian returned from his trip to the castle?" The bartender, a rough looking female steps forward leaning on the bar.

Woman: "Good day to ye, Edward. He did in fact, and is neow visiting wit Ira up in the suite. Shall I grab em fer ye?"
Ed's response was quick.
Rotten Ed: "That won't be necessry, Honora. I'll see te him. Treat this gentleman, would ye? Best bring out the 'Negotiator'."

You wonder what exactly the 'Negotiator' is, but then Honora unquestioningly grabs a bottle from a liquor cabinet behind the bar. It was fancy enough. Many gangs tend to negotiate business deals over booze.

Rotten Ed left to go up the stairs and get Adrian. Honora places two shot glasses on the bar but didn't pour the bottle yet. She also pours you a beer as well. It is dark and looks refreshing. It's been awhile since you've had such a luxury.

Honora: "Don't tink I've seen ye here before, mate." Her voice is raspy and full of gumption. "Name's Honora. Welcome te The Heartwood." Honora pulls out a pack of cigarettes and slips one in her mouth and throws another in front of you. She seems friendly enough. "I see ye don't wear a color. Must be an Independent?"

There is one other girl in the Heartwood sitting at a booth at the other end of the room chatting with another guy. Everyone is armed inside. A plethora of SMG's and pistols and a shotgun or two. Everyone looked surprisingly clean considering living in a decaying city. The Heartwood is lit up with electricity and most of its pre-Cryzoloth functions still work. Many of the people inside gave you weird looks, trying to piece together the story of how Mick's face ended up so f$+#ed up. As for Milo, some of the Monroes made snide comments at him, mainly about his twitching.

"Hah! Lit'le pecker ken barely walk!"
"Miss yer 'eroin do ya, Milo?"
"Best get used to the cold-chills, ya tweak!"

The girl at the end of the room catches your eye and excuses herself from the booth and sits at the bar with you one stool away. Honora also pours her and herself a beer but is still engaged in conversation with you.

He stares at you with his deep, beady green eyes. His deep-thinking is portrayed in his stone like posture as the rain poured down his face, like a small stone waterfall in a garden pond.

"Hah! You know what, Jack? You've peaked me interest."

Milo was already at the intersection where you turned from the street with the diner, so he is still in ear's reach.

With an echoing yell, "Milo! Come on back 'ere, lad!"

Milo: Milo yelled back, "What the f@~~?! Why?! The rain will wash away her trail soon!"

Rotten Ed: "Forget the las! Jack's pretty adamant 'bout 'er safety! And, as ye ken tell, if you continue further he'll have us all lookin' like Mick 'ere! So strap yer pecker back into place and come on back! Er I'll report ye for insubordination!"

Milo mutters incomprehensibly to himself; the rain poured heavier and drowned out some noise.

Rotten Ed: "How 'bout we rewind? Level the playing field. The men at the Heartwood wouldn't take kindly to you bringin' us back at gunpoint. You'll have yer guns, en we'll have ours. I'll vouch fer ye. My word is my bond. What say you, Jack?"

Your choice. You clearly have the upper-hand on them.

He makes Milo aid Mick as a crutch. They walked maybe 30ft behind, out of ear-shot.

"Neow, tell me what this bit o' business is of yours en why would we, the Cassidy-Monroes, give a s!$*e."

Mick's VP=0/8 and WP=4/12. He is considered staggered and exhausted and is virtually unable to fight.

"Dear lord, Jack! Now look what ye gone and done te Mick. Ye gave 'em quite the makeover!" He puts the black cloth bag back into his back pocket and draws his bloodied bat, but is only leaning on it.

"Go on en grab yer gun from Mick. My word is my bond."

"Ye got the better o' me, Jack. I underestimated you. Sure would hate to go toe-to-toe wit ya. Not as quick en me old age. I'm not one te beg fer mercy, but if it exist within yer heart, Mick and I will be on our way."

Rotten Ed was stoic as ever. You sensed no fear, no beads of sweat. He knew he was at a loss and he accepted it.

All of your knowledge of Rotten Ed dawned on you at that moment. Please feel free to check out the spoiler with the K-Streetwise DC 20.

What do you do from here, good sir?

"Int'restin', Jack. Seems yer l'ready a leader. If I'd hefta guess, I'd say yer were in a position of power prior te all of this. I'd wager you were a cop."

Egats! How'd he know!?!??

"Aye, Jack. Once I heard yer name, I was struck with memory. Popular man of the force certainly has infamy here. Ya put away O'Riley and William, and not to mention-"

He was interrupted when the gray clouds thickened and rain began to fall.

"Ah. Perfect Irish weather...."

At that moment you realized the Monroe with the SMG was no longer in front of you. You heard the safety go off and a cold barrel press against the back of your neck. The Cassidy with the chain had wide eyes, his excitement from violence conspicuously worn.

The Cassidy: "Where'd that little slut go that you were with, pig!?"

Rotten Ed: "Neow neow, Milo. Sech language won't bode well fer the cop, 'ere. Might get ornery. Ye go find 'er iffin' ye wish, but I'll hev no part ov it."

Milo: "Yeah... yeah I think I will. I think she'd be great for business. Ira would be pleased."

Milo walked by the Monroe with the SMG pointed at you. He gave Milo your Colt Python and without further dialogue, Milo started heading toward where you came from. Hopefully she didn't leave a trail... (::cough::blood prints from crushing Bill's chest::cough::)

Rotten Ed pulls out a black cloth bag to put over your head.

Rotten Ed: "I 'taught our business relationship would fair better than this, Jack. Perhaps the subordinates don't know who y'ar, but I certainly do. Mick, if he moves, fill em up." Rotten Ed begins to move forward, tucking the bat under his arm and opening the black bag to put over your head.

You have some options here, my friend. Lets start by rolling initiative then we can figure out how this goes down. Since Mick has a readied action (if you take an action, he fires at you), if you beat his initiative by 3 or more, he loses his readied action. Or, you can simply comply and go with them as their prisoner.

Rotten Ed's initiative: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3
Mick's initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5

"These days, there's not much you can get without putting your life on the bargaining table."

"Aye, thet's true enough. You'll get along in 'dis world if you can pay the with blood."

"Othello tax you guys hard? Figure, with the old rivalries and all, he'd give the knife a twist or two. S~~*, me and a few others don't got much but his collectors spelled their demands out pretty clear. Not sure how long it'll be till we have nothing... And that's coming from neutrals. Can't imagine how it must be for you."

"Ah well, not to disappoint ya... uhh... say, what is your name, lad?"

....

"Basically Jack, if yer worried about teh unaffiliated starving themselves, ya gotta' join. Man like you would move up quickly. You walk like a leader."

"I tink I better take you to see Adrian. He's meetin' wit teh subordinates for a briefing from the Ikon. I tink I'll have him explain his reasoning for the draft, en maybe you'll do what's right for the City. Maybe even convince a few others of doin' the same." He slows his pace a little and lets his comrades walk further ahead.

"It ain't all shiny, Jack. He's twisting teh knife."

He picks up pace again.

"Not to farr, now. So, Jack. How do you fare in these times? I'm always taakin' en intrest in lives of the New World."

Just so you know.... this is your revolver... (LINK to Colt Python) The bigger one...

"Ah, that's a good lad. En of course ye will. We Monroes are men of our word. And my word is, "you will get these back". He hands your pistols to the other Monroe at his side. "Neow, on te business. If all ye want is information, I'd say we're gettin' the bettar part ov the deal."

You all begin to walk. Rotten Ed walked slow and heavy. Being inconspicuous was not a concern of his.

"There's a mixed feeling, I'd say. We haven't questioned it, much, so I can't rightfully tell ye. But I'll tell ye this... the draft has without a doubt stirred the pot. There's disagreement among our ranks and I don't think I hefta point out where the disagreement lies." He gave the Cassidy with the chain a light (light for Rotten Ed) knock on his behind with the bat.

"If I had to guess, I'd say my family would do well under the draft. Adrian has kept me in the dark for the most part on its rationale. But, my gut says it's an effective way to expand. To our dismay, our other halves feel irritated with further control. Why you ask anyway? Information must be worth somethin' to ye if you risked your life for it."

Your Sense Motive reveals a number of things. Rotten Ed is very stoic and confident and must be some high ranking member. The other Monroe's demeanor with Ed is that of comfort; they've probably worked together before on a number of occasions. The Cassidy is a little torn up. He barely looked at you and walked a head of the group a little. He must be hurting over the loss of Bill. You notice he'd twitch every now and again and scratch himself in random places.

Your Sense Motive also gives you the impression that Rotten Ed's disposition toward you is more relaxed and receptive (shifts to Indifferent instead of Unfriendly)

Kalyna: "I know I know!" She gave you a cheerful smile. "I've made the trek before. Lets meet back up between three and four. So that's.... like four and a half hours from now."

She holsters her pistol and takes her jacket off, slinging it over her shoulders as she takes a deep inhale.

"I'll see ya in time for dinner. I think it's Spam night! Peace out, Detective." Once the Cassidy-Monroes were around the corner, she turned around and headed down the way we came, going further west out of Cassidy-Monroe territory and closer to the Gold Dragons. From there, she would continue south to the Coven's hangout.

Your post occurs.

Rotten Ed and his two comrades, another Monroe and the Cassidy with the chain, turn around to face you. He is a middle-aged man; probably in his 50's pushing 60's. He wore a nice gray suit, indicating he has some access to luxury services such as laundry. Right now, his suit was a mess with zed spillings and Bill's brain matter. He has wavy grayish-red hair that is slicked back, with deep green eyes hidden behind bushy eyebrows. He has a large round nose and his gut is similarly shaped. Despite his out-of-shape appearance, he walked tough.

Rotten Ed: "Aye, lad. I suppose that's a fair way. I don't mean te disappoint, but I'm not teh one te be distributin' favors on behalf of Monroe. Ye can fallow us te the Heartwood. Ye can handle yerself enough, which is why I'll have te insist I take yer weapons during your tour. It's nuttin' descriminatin'. We do et fer everybody. Can't trust the filthy beggars that'll sooner stick ya than ask fer help."

"Now, whet kind of favors were ye gonta be askin'? So I can better prepare my proposal to Adrian."

You guys are walking and talking during this conversation.

Her heavy panting begins to subside as she regains herself. She looked to you and gave you a solemn, somewhat shameful nod, acknowledging she was ready to move on.

Kalyna: "What are you thinking of doing?"

You explain to her that you believe you can negotiate protection with favors from the Cassidy-Monroes. Our plan was sound, but it needed contingencies.

Kalyna: "Jack... I don't think I can go there. Sure, Ed was civil enough, but most of them are killers. Especially the Cassidys." She walks just outside of the diner, stepping through the large broken window. "They're not that far down the road. You can catch up with them." She lights a cigarette. "Will you be good on your own? I don't want to leave you alone, but I don't want to end up being a non-negotiable bargaining chip. Not that you would let me! But that's exactly the problem. We may as well go in guns blazin'."

Clearly she thinks it is inevitable that they will want her.

Kalyna: "How about I go see Kojo and you talk with them? We'll kill two birds with one stone. Don't even worry about me. I'll head further west and get out of Cassidy-Monroe territory."

Say last minute things if ya'd like. I will continue forward if that's cool.

Unfortunately, there was nothing for you two to loot. Considering this is Cassidy-Monroe territory, the fridge and the rest of the storage areas of the diner were picked clean.

The unplugged subway entrance worried you. Even when plugged, walking by the subway entrances sent chills down spines. The howling; knowing something was there, hungry and not picky. A horde of predators contained by debris. How in the hell did they manage to breech the plug?

Kalyna appeared very disturbed.

Kalyna: "That sick little f!~#..." She charge over to the corpse of Bill.

Kalyna: "You sick... s@~#-eating... little F#*@!!!!" She began axe-kicking his chest. Each blow made a louder and louder crunching sound. You've noticed a pattern with her. Every time she felt overwhelmed, she'd respond with a magnified reaction. A characteristic of bravery, an against all odd attitude, but with a hint of psychosis. Whatever the reason, it only attested to the fact that she was made for this world.

She was heavily panting, "Lets get the f~** out of here..."

What do you do from this point? Some points of interest are the the breached subway entrance, going to the Heartwood Club, or going to the Hive. But as always, this is a sandbox game.

A Cassidy: "The f+@% are you talking about?"

The Monroe takes notice of what you are talking about.

A Monroe: "Aye, mate. Yer arm."

The Cassidy immediately turns his weapon on the Monroe.

A Cassidy: "Don't you even f*+*in' think about you, Edward! I won't be taken down like we did Daniel, or Allison. F+## no! NO WAY!!!"

Edward: "Bill, calm deown. We won't kill ye outright. We'll allow you the decency of passing first. Then, we do what must be done."

Bill: "NO! I refuse! I refuse to die! I won't let you do it!! If I turn, then I turn! Don't you dare even think about puttin' me down!"

Edward: "Bill.... I know it must be done."

Bill: "F%@# YOOOUUUU!!!!" Bill raises his sawed-off shotgun and aims it at Edward, but Edward cracked Bill over the head with a wooden baseball bat quicker than he could fire his gun. Edward continued to crush Bill's skull. The other Cassidy there was shocked and too close to Edward to react. He is armed with metal chain, but Edward's intimidating stance is forcing him to cower.

Edward: "Stop yer whinin', mate. It had te be done. And don't even tink about layin' me out with that chain ov yers. Our bosses wouldn't abide by that."

Edward turns his attention to us...

Edward: "My tanks te ye both. Bill could be a bit hard headed. A brave man; quite primitive. Ye can't really blame a man for his instincts, can ya las?"

Kalyna didn't want to respond.

Edward: "Well then. I'll ask ye kindly to leave your guns on the counter till we make on our way. Should ye need a token of appreciation, head to the Heartwood Club. Tell em "Rotten" Ed sent ye."

Feel free to engage in a conversation with them if you have any questions and the like. If you don't, they head out on their way.

YOU FAIL!!! to influence his disposition.

A Monroe: "Shet yerself! Come out into the shop, las. Empty te' clip like yer friend 'ere and place te' gon on te' counter."

Kalyna quietly and somewhat worriedly ejected her mag and placed both the clip and the Gloc on the counter with next to your Beretta.

Group perception: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (15) - 1 = 14

Kalyna: "We're not here to cause trouble. We're just trying to get out of territory and scavenge the outliers."

A Cassidy: "Oh, well looks like you didn't get the memo. See, I can tell you aren't with the C.U.. So that means you're an Independent. And for Independents to cross through Cassidy-Monroe territory, ya gotta pay the toll."

Kalyna: "Well. We practically saved your asses. Doesn't that count for something?"

A Cassidy: "Nah, I don't think it does. We would have been just fine. If I were to give you a pair of shoes without you asking for them, would you then be in dept to me? No."

A Monroe: "You jest calm deown. The soldiers wouldn't let ye do sech a thing. Jest let em go. They only have guns and that's what we have plenty ov."

A Cassidy: "They may not have food in a can. But she brought food between her legs." The tall muscular Cassidy, with his bald head, ripped jean vest with spikes, and black jeans draped with chains began licking his lips like a starving carnivore as he stared at Kalyna's hips.

Kalyna clearly looks panicked. They outnumber us 4:2.

Kalyna's Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
Heal: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9
Craft (Structural): 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29

Please roll and reply accordingly... these are just some options available to you but are not the only ones. Let me know if you have any questions.

Hahaha. I knew you'd appreciate it.

Kalyna was way ahead of you...

"Of course I'm ready! These f+#%ers are easy!"

The shop looks like it was once a small greasy-spoon diner. The damaged sign outside read something like "Romeo's Restaurant". You ducked down behind a host station near the entrance. While you were moving, trying to avoid gun fire, Kalyna made her attack.

Attack on Sloth in Zeds (A): Single-shot: 1d20 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 4 + 1 = 10DMG: 2d6 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (6, 5) + 3 + 1 = 15 -1 AC for one round.

Her carefully placed shot drops the one Sloth dead (again). Your shot followed soon after as you popped the Dire Ghoul in the head the second you had the chance. It fell to the ground in a puddle of blood. The only Zeds left are those in group B. The four Cassidy-Monroes that fortified themselves behind the bar finished off the last two with peppers of SMG fire.

Once the gunfire quiets down...

Kalyna: "Hey! Hey, stop shooting! It's clear!"
A Monroe: "Who en the feck e' thaht?"
A Cassidy: "Come out! Get out from behind the counter! NOW!"
Kalyna: "Chill, man! We just took out two-thirds of those Zeds! We're not going to hurt you!"

You hear a gun being reloaded...

A Monroe: "I said get yar feckin' arse out! Neow! We won't hert ye. But dis here's Cassidy-Monroe tearitree (territory), en ye heft ta drop yer weapons. Do et! Er we'll moooh ye deown!"

I feel racist even writing in an Irish accent.

Their howling amplifies as you creep closer. You try to sneak up to the shop to gain the advantage on them, but your partner seems to be ready to go "guns blazin'". She cooled herself when you quietly shot her name at her in a tone you would use with your son when he was small and naive.

Kalyna: Whispering, "Alriiiight, jeezum crow..."

You assume the lead and peer your head around the wall to get a quick look inside. Guns were still firing, and there is a chance you two can be shot at if you try to engage them directly. Though shooting from an angle further back should get you a shot at the zeds without being in the cross-fire (CROSS FI-YAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRR!!!! From Matel).

Re-roll initiatives please.

Kalyna's new Initiative: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22
Zeds (A): 1d20 ⇒ 7 <=This group has a Dire Ghoul and a Sloth.
Zeds (B): 1d20 ⇒ 17 <=This group has two Sloths.

Your first strike was miscalculated due to the loose clothing of the zed, but you second one was landed perfectly. You deal him an uppercut so severe that you did this (at 0:12) to the poor bastard...

You still hear some gun fire coming from the shop, but there is also less howling. You assume the Cassidy-Monroes are gaining the upper-hand.

Kalyna shifts to her left (5' step) as she quickly holsters her knife and pulls out her gun and double-taps what's left of the group (B).

Attack: Double-tap: 1d20 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (14) + 4 - 2 = 16DMG: 2d6 + 3 ⇒ (4, 4) + 3 = 11
Attack: Double-tap: 1d20 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (10) + 4 - 2 = 12DMG: 2d6 + 3 ⇒ (6, 6) + 3 = 15

She pops two of them in the head; their proximity and slow movement make them easy targets. There is one left, and he has his eyes set on you. He moves slightly (5' step) and lunges at you with his arms spread.
Zed (B) Grapple: 1d20 ⇒ 12
Jack's AoO: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24Crit. Confirm: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11DMG: 2d6 + 8 ⇒ (5, 6) + 8 = 19 CONFIRMED!

You do this to him.... THUNDER CLAP!

Kalyna's jaw dropped.

Kalyna: "G@$ d&&n, Jack! Haha! This is kind of fun isn't it!? Lets get the others!"

Without thinking she started heading toward the store. Oddly for her, she wasn't concerned with the consequences of encountering the Cassidy-Monroes. The Monroes are more docile, but the Cassidys are sadistic by nature.

You positioned yourself slightly outside of range with your kick, causing you to 360 back into position. However, you are in combat with the Dire Ghoul and are flanking it.

Zeds C: They are all in the shop now. You still hear commotion and fighting inside along with the howling of the zeds.

Attack Pocket-knife: Power Attack: 1d20 + 1 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (8) + 1 + 2 - 2 = 9DMG: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

Kalyna quickly holsters her gun and pulls out her knife with time to spare to strike the Dire Ghoul across the face, but to no avail.

The Dire Ghoul attempts to grapple Kalyna.
CMB: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12
Kalyna AoO: 1d20 + 1 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 1 + 2 - 2 = 20Crit. Con.: 1d20 + 1 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 1 + 2 - 2 = 17DMG: 2d4 + 4 ⇒ (4, 1) + 4 = 9
She deflects his grasp and grants herself an opportunity to impale his brain: a strike at blinding speeds punctured the Dire Ghouls skull, squirting blood everywhere. She pulls her knife out of his head and gives you a sinister smile as if she enjoyed it. She then directed her attention to the zeds shuffling their way forward.

The Dire Ghoul really felt that shot, but it still continued to advance toward you and Kalyna.

Zeds C: This group of four begin making there way into the store the Cassidy-Monroes went into. One of the zeds appear to be similar in complexion to the Dire Ghoul and seemed to move faster that its sluggish comrades.

Round one ends with some action from the gang members. All that is heard is more gunshots and yelling from inside the store.

Kalyna: "Watch that one! They're quicker than others; he may charge soon!"

Kalyna goes for another double-tap...
Attack: Semi-auto: 1d20 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (10) + 4 - 2 = 12DMG: 2d6 + 3 ⇒ (6, 2) + 3 = 11
Attack: Semi-auto: 1d20 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (12) + 4 - 2 = 14DMG: 2d6 + 3 ⇒ (5, 1) + 3 = 9

Kalyna fires at the Sloth next to the Dire Ghoul in Group A, taking it down in one shot. She then targets the Dire Ghoul, but to no avail; her shot blows passed the side of his face.

Zeds A: The Dire Ghoul charges toward (Jack=odds, Kalyna=evens)1d10 ⇒ 4 Kalyna with the rubble torqued back in its hand.
Charge Attack: 1d20 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 6 + 2 = 22DMG: 1d6 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 1 + 2 = 9 -1 to AC for one round

The Dire Ghoul barely misses her by miscalculating the weight of the brick. Her deft movements saved her a bash to the head. She is now in combat with the Dire Ghoul.

Zeds B: They are no longer granted cover. They move closer toward us and are now 20ft away.

Kalyna's ammo: -4

Your turn!

You turn around the corner, creeping your way down the street. You unfortunately were not looking and you kicked an empty tin-can quite hard. He managed to hit a street-light, then bouncing off of a car, and then landing on the ground. The racket caught the attention of the some of the zeds. Four of them, begin making their way toward you.

Initiative Order
Kalyna (25)
Zeds A (12) [Four zeds per group. Zeds A includes the "ghoul" that lobbed the rubble.]
Zeds B (9)
Jack (8)
Zeds C (2)

Kalyna: "G&! d&~mit, Jack!" Without the need for cover, she stands out in the open, firing two shots at the group that directed their hunger toward us.

Attack: Semi-Auto fire: 1d20 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (7) + 4 - 2 = 9DMG: 2d6 + 3 ⇒ (1, 5) + 3 = 9 She drops one to the ground and quickly switches target to another...
Attack: Semi-Auto fire: 1d20 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 4 - 2 = 17DMG: 2d6 + 3 ⇒ (5, 4) + 3 = 12
She drops her second target, reducing Zed Group A to two zeds, one of which is brick thrower.

The two zeds shuffle their way closer to you and Jack. The one that threw the brick picks up another piece of rubble but doesn't throw it yet. They finish there round 20ft away from us.

Group B takes notice of the gun shots and directs their attention toward us as well. They move 15ft in our direction and are 35ft away. They have cover from Group A.

Your turn, good sir.

Kalyna: "I'm right behind ya, Jack. How much ammo do you have? I have a clip in and one in my pocket."

You take a quick peek around the corner. About midway down the block, you see about five gang member fending off a troupe of 12 zeds. Where they came from is unknown to you, but you think the subway entrance at the end of the street may have something to do with it, seeing as its "plug" had been breached. The Cassidy-Monroes run into one of the buildings. The zeds begin to claw at the door and window. To your amazement, you see one of the zeds pick up a large broken hunk of brick from some nearby rubble and lob it at the large window.

You are about 50ft (10squares) away from the shop the Cassidy-Monroes went into. The zeds start to make their way in, with the one that lobbed the rubble behind them. The street is dotted with rubble and litter, and has about 10 cars either parked on the sides, or in the middle of the street. One car in particular is adjacent to the troupe, granting some of them a cover bonus.

Roll motha' f$$+in' initiative

Kalyna: "What the f@!!!? How'd they break through the plug?!" She pulls out her 10mm Gloc and takes the safety off.

Kalyna Initiative: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25
Troupe perception: 1d20 ⇒ 17
Troupe Initiative when combat begins: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (11) - 2 = 9, 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (14) - 2 = 12, 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (4) - 2 = 2

Since our Stealth beat their Perception, we can act in a Surprise RooooouuuuuNNNNNNNDDDDD!!!!!!

You know for sure the gunfire is a block away on the parallel street. You estimate between 10-15 guys, and from the sounds of the guns being used, it's most likely the Cassidy-Monroes; pistols and an SMG or two. Who they're fighting exactly is unknow... until you hear that familiar, haunting sound. A sound that filled the night during the Street Wars. Screeching, chalk-board-like howling from Them. The unnatural dead that hungered for flesh. It sounds as if there are more than a troupe of them. Your nat 20 also allows to hear some human-screams.

What do you do sir?

Kalyna: "Hey. Do you hear something?"

Not many independents are out and about today. You see some scavengers scrounging for last minute supplies for when the C.U. comes around to collect the tax. But other than that, you've only seen a handful of GFK's who mostly keep to themselves. Soon, you make your way out of GFK territory and are crossing over Cassidy-Monroe turf. You two are on your guard, moving from one cover to the next to avoid confrontation as much as possible. Gang members enjoy hassling independents for their weapons.

You notice the streets are barren. Feeling confident no one was around, you start hearing gunshots to the east, perhaps a block away.

Please roll a perception check.

Kalyna's Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7

Kaylna got some dust kicked into her eye from a surprise gust of wind. Blinded for 1d4 ⇒ 4 rounds

That's a ridiculous name. :)

After a long, though-out pause - as if you thought he was second guessing his decision, he ultimately decides...
Herb: "Thank you. You've helped us a lot and we are grateful for your leadership. Many of us would not be here if it weren't for you, Kalyna, and Gwen. But..." He extends his hand cordially, "...we have to do what's best. Should you change your minds, you know where to look for us. We're heading south. Hopefully with the Coven occupying southern C.U., they'll keep Othello out of hair."

Kalyna: "Best of luck to you guys. But I don't think Othello would be content with that. He wants all territory within the barrier."

Herb: "We don't know that for sure, though. There's plenty of space. Hell, there's plenty of space everywhere if ya take my meaning."

With that, they began packing there things, getting ready for the migration. You and Kalyna make your way out of the lobby doors to the open street of Barrier City. Your apartment is not that far away from the Ikon, a condo building that is the seat of the C.U. and the GFK. To the east is Rake territory. If they recognize Jack and Kalyna, they may become hostile. The Cassidy-Monroes hold a narrower territory that is somewhat central and to the west of the Rakes. West to southwest is Gold Dragon territory, which is the second largest compared to the Coven's in the south and southeast sections. Though the GFK are more powerful, they have the fourth largest territory within Barrier City. The Cassidy-Monroes have the smallest.

The GFK: Non-hostile.
The Gold Dragons and the Cassidy-Monroes: Potentially hostile. Depends on the individuals.
The Coven: Non-hostile.
The Rakes: Most likely hostile.

You and Kalyna head south to one of the Coven's hangouts. It's an entertainment refuge they reconstructed for the people of Barrier City including other gang members, except for their rivals - the Rakes. The place is called The Hive (that's at least the name they changed it to). It should take about an hour to walk there, assuming you are uninterrupted.

The route you are taking goes through Cassidy-Monroe territory and some of Gold Dragon. It's safer than going through Rake territory. Either way, you have to go through other gangs to get to the Coven. Kalyna has made the trek a few times unscathed, but that's not to say she never ran into problems.

More to come....

Kalyna: "No problem, Jack. We just have to find him is all. They hang out more south of C.U. territory. It could take sometime. Not to mention trying to get through gang territory without interruptions. The GFK haven't exactly been holding up their end of the supplies tax."

You two make your way through the apartment complex, encountering some other residents along the way. You break the news to them that the council will join the C.U. for the sake of protection. Most of them grew irritated, claiming they'd rather not live at the whims of murderers. They also state that the C.U. has not protecting them from rampant gang members or hostile independents. Roughly half of your "tribe" decide they will deny themselves admission into the C.U., and will stake out land in the southern frontier of Barrier City (C.U. territory is only in the top portion of Barrier City). They're ability to defend it is questionable.

To convince some of the members to stay and maintain your numbers, roll a Persuasion check DC=20. Kalyna provides you with a +2 from an Aid Other bonus. If you beat the check by 5 or more, there will be an untold benefit pertaining to the story. What you say in order to convince the emigrating residents is up to you.

Updated the Lore spoiler with links to Jack's apartment complex and Othello's condo. I will e-mail my map of Barrier City sometime soonly. I want to polish it up with gang territorial boundaries and whatnot but that will have to wait until the weekend (I gots an exam tomorrow).

She turns her attention to you with complete awareness; absorbing every word you speak.

Gwen: "You two seem incredibly convinced that this is going to work. Judging from that, there clearly is no stopping you. I'll tell you this... I will not participate in this attack. Don't get me wrong. I want your plan to succeed. But it's terrorism, plain and simple. And it will only be met with a similar response."

Kalyna: "Well, thanks for the pep talk, Gwen! I feel even more confident about this now!"

Gwen: "Kalyna..." Gwen stepped toward Kalyna and fell into a hug, catching her off guard, "...I just don't want to see you guys get killed."

Kalyna is struck with an epiphany. Gwen was resistant to the plan because she doesn't want to lose more people, especially those she cares about. Jack and Kalyna are the closest people she has, and losing them would be devastating for her.

Kalyna: "Awwww, Gwenny! Я теж тебе люблю. I don't plan on checking out anytime soon. Ol' Jack and I just want to try and make a better life for everyone. We'll make sure no one gets hurt. We just have to stir the pot a little... with C4... hoo boy, I better get busy!"

Gwen: "Alllright. Calm down there, girl. You might O."

Kalyna: "Damn I think I did." She pats her lady-parts on the outside of her pants and gives a still shining smile. "Sorry Jack. This is your life now. Anyways, we better head out. I think we should talk to Kojo before we go further, but it's up to you. Yesterday, someone mentioned that they'll probably start recruiting when they come around to collect everyone's supplies tax. I have no clue what the procedure is like. They could be just making a list of who's staying and who's going or they may be booting people out. I really hope it's the former."

Gwen: "I think they're just getting a list. The draft stated emigrants would have a week to leave before they were forced out. What do I tell them for our answer? Should I just say we plan to explode the barricades to open up the view a little?

Kalyna: "Bahah! Oh Gwenny... The view could be better, though. What do you think, Jack? What's our answer for the powers that be?"

Please decide on your answer for the recruiters. After you finalize your morale-check, you discover it is close to 1:1. About 56% of the residents would rather leave and 44% would want to join. Individuals within the apartment can choose whether they join or not, it just means your numbers decrease within your "tribe". We can pick the scene up outside of the apartment complex, where you and Kalyna choose your next course of action. I encourage you to respond to the dialogue in this post, though!

Kalyna: "No no. Just duds, Jack. Because.... no. No wait. That's good!"

Kalyna jumps over to Jack to administer an excitable high-five.

Gwen: "Oh my god you guys have got to be kidding me!"

Kalyna: "Think about it Gwen!"

Gwen: "I have been thinking about it! You'd be endangering people which is exactly what we're trying not to do!"

Kalyna: "Well if you want to make an omelette..."

This is quick post until I get home. Feel free to interject and rationalize with Gwen. I want her to have your input :)

Gwen is receptive to you and allows Kalyna to continue.

Kalyna: "They'll no doubt examine the threat, so we actually do plant something. A dud. Five C4 duds. We claim there's a proximity sensor and that we also have a detonator."

Gwen: "Okay. But for the bluff to work, they'd have to agree with your logic. Why would he believe you when it is so impractical to destroy the barricades and open up the city to the Hell outside? What is the motive for putting hundreds of lives in danger, including ours - the bombers?"

Kalyna: "This part gets tricky." Kalyna takes a moment to light up a cigarette of her own. "We create a fraudulent petition. The C.U. doubtfully has records of everyone, so using the names we know and by creating our own, we should be able to get a substantial amount of signatures."

Gwen: "No Kalyna. They probably do have records. It's how they keep track of who has paid their supplies tax."

Kalyna: "Oh yeah... well that's perfect then! We have all the signatures we need. We'll just have to 'commandeer' a copy."

Gwen places her hand over her face.

Kalyna: "Girl, I'm from the Ukraine. Don't tell a gypsy it cannot be stolen." She take a big puff of her cigarette and tries to blow a few quick smoke rings before continuing, though she failed. "So anyways, we commandeer the registry. Create the petition. Plant the duds. Then schedule a meeting with the big man. I'm sure there's more we can do to increase our chances of forcing him into stepping-"

Gwen interrupts Kalyna to keep her on track.

Gwen: "Kalyna! You haven't even mentioned what the petition says. What are we forcing on him other than mutually assured destruction?"

Kalyna: "Oh s~$$. Duh! So this petition... it's like your Declaration of Independence. It'll say that the listed Independents and gang associates choose to not live within Barrier City but also will not risk attack from the C.U.. Therefore, we have all agreed to level the playing field. And here's the logic you're looking for, Gwen...." Kalyna takes a gentler puff than last time and blows a perfect smoke ring, ".... Retaining our independence and leaving the city can be seen as more rational than living under the rule of a despot. So he has to expect some people to leave. So if independents have two enemies to fight, the zeds and the C.U., why wouldn't they want to level the playing field? With a common enemy being a significant threat, Othello will divert his attention from the Independents. Better yet, he would ally with them to defeat our common enemy. There's the logic, Gwen. Rather than have two enemies to fight, the Independents would have one enemy and one ally. It'd be every man for himself again, which leaves room for a better leader to take over."

Gwen's face changed from annoyed to curious. It was obvious she was playing the scenario in her head, looking for errors.

Gwen: "I don't see the logic in fighting them. I'm sorry Kalyna. I want to live my life my way as well, but that includes surviving. If we join them, we increase our chances of surviving." Gwen was starting to show frustration.

Kalyna: "Hear me out, babe. I'm not saying we have to fight anyone. To win against someone without violence, you have to make them an offer they can't refuse."

Gwen: "I'm sorry. What exactly can we offer?"

Kalyna: "We offer him the city. We take it away from him until he steps down from the seat of the C.U. We..." Kalyna pauses and her eyes look upward, as if she was trying to see her thoughts to better understand them, "... we threaten to destroy the five major barricades."

Gwen's mouth drops. She couldn't believe what she just heard.

Gwen: "Okay. You've gone mad. Terrorism, Kalyna!? Really?!" Now Gwen was just getting annoyed.

Kalyna: "I didn't say we'd actually do it! It's a bluff!"

I would keep going but I want you to have time to interject in the conversation.

Gwen: "So if you believe the C.U. will just destroy itself, why even fight it? Ride it out until it dies." Gwen starts to gather her tools and hang them up under the lean-to. Eli assists her with the clean up.

Kalyna: "Hey handsome. Mind giving us a second? I'd hate for this conversation to worry your head."

Eli: "Oh, it's okay. I don't mind. I like listening to how you guys solve these problems. I've never really had to care about this stuff until a few months ago. It's a real eye-opener. If you don't mind, I'd like to stay and listen."

Kalyna: "That's sweet of you, handsome. And maybe one day you'll be on council. But this next bit I'm about to say I can't have in anyone else's brain but Mr. Cosic's and Ms. Stubins's. If you want to be a leader someday, you will have to understand why these precautions are necessary."

Eli: "Yeah. I suppose I get it. Well, if there anything I can help with let me know."

Kalyna: "Thanks tuts."

Eli finishes putting the tools away and head back down the stairs.

Gwen: "I'm afraid of what you're going to say next..."

Kalyna: "I think we're going about this all wrong. We need to approach this from all angles. Think of it like chess. We can win with only a few pieces if we strategize. If we have just one ace in the hole, Othello can crumble in one fell swoop with minimal casualties... "

She awaits a response before continuing with her plan...

"It's suicide, Jack." He blurts out with the relief of long held poo. Eli: "The guy's a psycho! And if we leave our homes we're zombie fodder! It's a miracle we've lasted this long. Start with nothing again? No thanks!"

Gwen: "I know it's not ideal, but why fight an enemy we can't win against?"

Kalyna chimes in before Eli can answer...

Kalyna: "If current events aren't reason enough to believe anything is possible, then I don't know what is. Hell, even look at your own history. The American colonist fought an empire because they had an edge. They went rogue; utilized unorthodox warfare. With the right edge, we can beat the C.U. Or replace Othello with a more tolerable leader, like the Coven."

Gwen: "The Coven? I don't think they have the leadership skills to head the C.U. Probably because they smoke too much pot, which I'm amazed at their ability to grow it within the city. The G.F.K. at least have some political sense. There might be good reason for Othello's draft. Maybe... he wants to expand borders? That makes the most sense considering the projected food shortage. Or..." Gwen pauses has she runs other probabilities through her head, "...perhaps he wants to cross the bridge?"

The bridge Gwen is referring to is the bridge to Manhattan. Every salvaging party that has crossed has never returned, but it is supposedly a gold-mine for untouched resources. The last words sent over local radio from the doomed salvaging parties indicate so.

In reference to Steve and Paul...

Kalyna: "I think we intimidate them. Or rather I make them feel funny feelings. I guess I should be flattered."

You enter the roof.

It is a slightly cloudy day with spots of sunlight here and there. There's really no telling what the weather will be like, due to the lack of media. With a proper knowledge check, it can be interpreted.

Kalyna K-N.S.: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 20

Eli: “Hey, Gwen. Do you think this water is safe for the plants? Y’know, the asteroids… radiation… zombies… You don’t think this could eventually, like, poison us or something, do you?”

Gwen: "Well, it's really hard to say. People here never thought to question their water source, and so far no one's contracted anything. And the radiation coming from the asteroids: They're oddly inert. Like they don't even exist but we can still see them. Ugh... I can't explain it. I'd have to smother you with lectures on electromagnetic radiation in order to make any sense..."

She continued to till the soil in one of her barrels: a 50 gallon plastic drum that was sawed in half and made into a garden bed. Jack had built her a little lean-to a few months back against the wall of the stairwell extension for her to store her tools, most of which are kitchen-ware.

She hears the door to the stairs shut and turns around...

Gwen: "Oh. Hey guys."

Kalyna: "Gwenny. You spend too much time up here. We're going for a walk."

Kalyna sometimes went too far with Gwen. To her, Gwen is an extremely tense person and a perfectionist. She is very empathetic, and so when Gwen is feeling a certain way, so is she, which causes her to actively try to make Gwen loosen up.

Lucky for Kalyna, Gwen can be quite submissive.

Gwen: With a heavy, surrendering sigh, "I suppose I could use a break. Where are we going?"

Options available, but not restricted to...

A.)Gather information from Kojo down at one of their hangouts. They run a little store outside of a bar where they exchange guns and ammunition for supplies. The bar is called "230 Fifth".

and/or

B.)Arrange a meeting with Othello or one of his agents in order to request some items for the next supply run (e.g. soil, lumber, and seeds).

and/or

C.)Continue with morale assessment and gather information in order to make a decision that concerns the future of your community.

Thanks for the update! Please choose one of the following Gestalt Perks:

Force of Personality: Add your bonus from Rake's Smile to your Ki Pool. This may seem bland, but if you think about it, a Ki Pool allows you to do lots of stuff, so you would be able to do that stuff more often, or virtually all of the time.

or

Walk Tall: Add your bonus from Rake's Smile to your initiative check when using Devoted Guardian (1/2 monk lvl + Rake's Smile during a surprise round). This increases your chances to act first in a surprise round, thus negating being flat-footed. In addition, against demoralized opponents, add your Rake's Smile bonus to your Unbalancing Counter DC. I beefed this one up because they are circumstantial.

I updated the campaign info tab!

Okay. They're called Weapon Class Specialization feats. WCS. Bam.

Feel free to continue on. I'll probably just post a little blurb in response to Miss Cavendish. But yeah, take her to the next step, sir. I'm in Reactive GM Mode. Ask any questions you have about the environments and what you're able to do.

Let me know if I did not word this correctly. I'm rereading it and confusing myself.

Example: To use a Heavy Machine gun, you would need ExoticWeapProf (Heavy Machine Gun). To get the penalty for using it automatically reduced by half, you also need ExoticWeapProf (automatic). This feat applies to all automatic weapons.