Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Tuxedo Fox
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Tuxedo Fox

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@Ulstermann
SECONDARY QUEST-A Light in the Darkness

Boss relished in the sight of the raider boat flipping through the air; a thick bellowy laughter echoing from him as he watched the raiders flying from their airborn vessel into the water. It got a little less funny when they started shooting again.

"Uh, Boss?" Carson shouted as Cat set them on a collision course. "Your pilot got a death wish?

"Just wait!" Boss hollered back, bracing himself for impact against the familiar sensation that quickly rocked the boat as the helpless raider vessel was reduced to splinters on impact; both the crew and wreckage quickly being swallowed beneath the large barge that puttered on as if it'd simply hit a log.

Boss could hear Cat shout a triumphant Woohoo! from behind him, Boss quickly echoeing her shout with a victory cry of his own while stamping his foot on the deck. No sooner had he opened his mouth was their ship ironically boarded with a handful of raiders, the motley crew jumping aboard as their much smaller and quicker vessel made a second pass much like Boss thought they would. Little did the fools know they were were now with in Boss's effective killing range.

Carson barked a warning at Boss that they had been boarded but Boss was already in the process of shooting, his old pump action shotgun belching steel slugs with a thunderous roar as Boss skillfully advanced on the attackers; along the way using any piece of cargo big enough to offer some semblance of cover.

[Shotgun Surgeon] The first three rounds Boss fired met their desired targets, completely putting two raiders out of the fight in a matter of moments. Just as the head of his first victim exploded like a ripe melon his second target took two shots to the chest, the force of the solid slugs cutting through his flimsy armor as they lifted the poor bastard off his feat and over the guard rail. Boss could just make out the mans motionless body floating by as he turned his attention to those now shooting at him, particularly the large Mr. Gutsy who was spouting some sort of nonsense about showing these commies what for.

These were the type of robots Boss was accustomed to encountering; the larger clunky old world models that had been mass produced for specific purposes. This one in particular sported what looked like a buzz saw, laser gun, and flame thrower on its three tentacle like appendages-quite the deadly trio. Luckily it seemed to be having trouble navigating the various boxes and crates Boss was now hiding behind but was still closing in-Boss decided it best to draw the things attention so Carson and A-H could deal with the other men on board.

"Comeon, ya metal hunka junk!" Boss roared as he narrowly dodged a burst of laser beams to the head.

"Fight me like a man, you scurvy dog!" The gutsy unit answered in its mechanical monologue as it closed within melee range, its saw arm buzzing to life. This was the moment Boss had been waiting for, the short distance allowing his shotgun to reach its full devastating potential. Aiming at what he knew to be the robots sensor unit he fired; however at the last second his aim was thrown off, his shotgun batted to the side in a rather impressive display of skill from the Mr. Gutsy. Although completely missing his intended target he got lucky in the fact that he hit anything-the renegade shell literally blowing poor Mr. Gutsys laser arm clean in half; a shower of sparks and wires spewing forth from the ruined appendage.

Completely caught off guard by this turn of events Boss let his shotgun fall to the floor with a clatter, the weapon useless until he had time to pump it again-which as far as he could tell might be a minte, afterall he quickly had to come up with some way to fend off the incoming blade attack. The best thing he could come up with in such short time was raising his left hand up in defense, the rotating blade coming down on his leather clad forearm.

Adrenaline coursing through his veins it only took a mere second or two for Boss to begin feeling the white hot pain shoot through his entire body, blood quickly visible despite his thick leather clothes. Howling like an animal Boss let instinct take over. [Quickdraw] In the blink of an eye his right hand shot down to the pistol holster on his belt, effortlessly drawing out his deadly .44 he slammed the cold piece of steel against his metallic attacker.

Screaming in both pain and anger Boss fired his remaining three rounds point blank, the first two blowing away enough chunks of the Gutsy units armor to allow him to literally shove his arm up into the deadly pre war creation where he let loose his final round. Although unable to see the damage wrought on the inside it was clear Boss had destroyed something vital, the heavy metal frame of his attacker going limp mid air-the weight of which actually caused Boss to collapse in a painful looking heap.

Victorious he lay there panting on his back, his body intermingled with the now dormant Mr. Gutsy.
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Ulstermann
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Ulstermann My name's Friday

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@Tuxedo Fox

SECONDARY QUEST-A Light in the Darkness

Carson stormed forward, his AK spitting death at the remaining Marauder crewmen. As Boss blew two of the scum away with remarkable shotgun skills Carson killed another, grinning wolfishly as the scumbag slid down the side of barge, smearing Boss' vessel with his blood.

The last two guys looked at one another, clearly considering fleeing. AH didn't give them the chance. The little Eyebot swept in, chirping in what sounded to Carson like glee, and rammed into one of the remaining men's chests like an old world cannonball. The guy was thrown through the air like a ragdoll, clear off the barge and into the water. 

The remaining enemy leapt forward, a long serrated blade in his hand. Carson ducked, hearing the hiss of the cutlass pass above his ears. Ramming his AK barrel upwards into the guy's midriff he squeezed the trigger. The blast launched the Marauder backwards to slam off the barge rail. Wisps of smoke came from his clothing, where Carson's muzzle-flash had set his clothes alight. 

Carson didn't hesitate. Pulling the pin from the frag grenade Boss had given him he tossed it onto the enemy craft's deck. The explosion was far greater than Carson would have thought possible. He was lifts off his feet and slammed bodily into the barge's cabin wall. He crumpled, gasping for air. Not far off lay Boss, entangled with the destroyed Mister Gutsy. Carson struggled upright and offered Boss his hand. "Let me help you up." The major offered, wiping blood from his moustache. His nose was bleeding. ""Nice work, going toe to toe with a Mister Gutsy takes balls. How badly are you hurt?" The barge began to move again, leaving the wreckage of the two Marauder vessels to slowly sink into the Gulf of Mexico. 
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Letter Bee
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"I'm sure you won't be interested in my cargo of basic supplies, including medical ones, pistols, and revolvers, but as I mentioned to your officer," Par was careful to avoid looking seductive, lest he gain the jealousy of the stupid - or at least, he thought that man was stupid - bodyguard, "I am a skilled technician, skilled at building, repairing, and maintaining guns, creating Solar, Wind, and Biomass generators, and jury-rigging machines." [Int 10]

"Now, I know you must have plenty of gunsmiths and technicians already, your flamers can attest to that, but I am also good at Explosives, more making them than disarming them, although I'm skilled in that as well. So, basically, I can do plenty of things all at one time." [Cha 9]

@Ordure, @Tuxedo Fox, @Lord Coake, @Ulstermann
Hidden 9 yrs ago 9 yrs ago Post by Tuxedo Fox
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@Ulstermann

SECONDARY QUEST-A Light in the Darkness

Boss could just make out the commotion of his comrades completely destroying what was left of the raiders as he laid on his back among the jumbled heap of metal that made up his fallen attacker; honestly he wasn't entirely sure who had won until Carson came over. "Let me help you up." Carson asked while extending a hand towards Boss; Carson quickly lifting him to his feet in one quick and powerful pull upwards.

"Thanks Carson." Boss answered while clearly biting through the pain; a good clean quarter inch of skin and bone having been cut through despite his best efforts to act otherwise.

"Nice work, going toe to toe with a Mister Gutsy. Takes balls. How badly are you hurt?" Carson continued to inquire once Boss had made it to his feet. Shakily he sat down on a nearby unmarked wooden crate, clutching at his left forearm in an attempt to halt the profuse bleeding he smiled shakily at Carson "I been worse, just need a minute. Stimpak and bandages might help a bit." Boss finished while nodding at a small shoebox sized metal box that sat close by on the deck with a large red + sign on it.

Clearly he didn't want to admit he was quickly bleeding out. Spitting out a large glob of blood a few inches away from Carson's boot he let loose a toothy blood covered grin, his eyes slightly glazing over as he stared past both Carson and the rampant carnage the three of them had caused (Asshead bobbing to and fro as if looking for someone else to shoot.)

"Lookie there." Boss pointed his good hand in the direction he was looking. "Looks like we made it to the lighthouse."

His shaky hand was pointing in the direction of the approaching lighthouse that had just recently come into sight.
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Ulstermann
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@Letter Bee

"Ok then." Napoleon said, tapping a rough fingernail against her glass. "So you're good at lots of things, apparently. Let's just say you are. How do I know you aren't an Order spy? Hell, even if you're no spy, how can I be assured of your loyalty? By your own admission you were trying to decide which side to join. What would stop you deciding to just change side if it looks like you're on the losing one?" 

The revolutionary leader took a sip of her drink.

 "And you must realise that even if I do choose to trust you, you and your traders in Orleans would be under my sole command." She smiled, though there was no warmth in it. "After all, we are in fight to the death. You'll have to convince me of your loyalty first." Again she scrutinised Par over the rim of her glass. "But I do have a job that needs doing. It might help convince me of your sincerity." Napoleon leaned forward, waiting to see if Par would throw in his lot with them. 

@Tuxedo Fox

SECONDARY QUEST-A Light in the Darkness

"I been worse, just need a minute. Stimpak and bandages might help a bit." Despite the bravado Boss was clearly quite badly hurt. Carson stooped down and retrieved the medical supplies, jabbing a stimpak into Boss' arm. "Hold still, I'll just get a bandage on it. The stimpak will do the rest." Carson bound the wound as tightly as he could.

"Looks like we made it to the lighthouse." Boss said blearily. Sounded like the stimpak was working, too. "Here, you got a whole chem dealer's stash in there, Boss." Carson said. Perk yourself up a bit while I help your pilot get us in close." With that Carson headed for the cabin to give Cat help getting the cumbersome barge close into the shore.
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Tuxedo Fox
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Tuxedo Fox

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@Ulstermann
SECONDARY QUEST-A Light in the Darkness

"Hold still, I'll just get a bandage on it. The stimpack will do the rest." Carson said after shooting a stimpack into Boss's injured arm before quickly binding the wound as tightly as he could.

"Here, you got a whole chem dealer's stash in there, Boss." Carson said. "Perk yourself up a bit while I help your pilot get us in close."

"Can do, just geme that shit." Boss said blearily as his right hand grasped at the med kit Carson held, the contents of which contained just about every heavy duty pre and postwar drug available. Boss wasted no time in chewing up two large Buffout tablets along with an extra shot of Med-X to the leg.

Within moments he felt all the better, the combination of a stimpak, med x, and buffout making him completely oblivious to the recent injuries that had been inflicted. Asshead curiously made his way over to Boss before producing a series of beeps and hisses that culminated in what sounded like a worried remark.

"Im fine, A-H. Just come on over here." Boss said as he beckoned for the peculiar droid to come his way, surprisingly the awnry ball of scrap complied as if it genuinely cared about Bosses request, the old world eyebot skillfully snaking his way up under Boss's right armpit. The medium sized metallic ball that was Asshead not only helped Boss to his feet but also helped him keep his balance while the effects of the stimpak continued to take place.

Before long Boss was feeling good enough to take a bullet, his eyes transfixed on the looming lighthouse that was quickly approaching; abesntmindedly he reloaded his shotgun as he called out again to Carson. "Looks like we made it here.
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Letter Bee
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"First up, it's bad business to appear too fickle," said Par. "Lack of loyalty, honesty, and probity means less customers, or at least, less customers who aren't after your blood. More to the point, are you really so sure that the Order will accept traitors and defectors? They'd probably torture and execute me the moment I attempt to betray you to them. No, when I commit, I commit."

"As for the job, tell me, what are the specifics? I already listed you my skills; will they fit?" I hope it doesn't involve combat; my bodyguards are reasonably armed, but the Order packs more heat than I expected. But if it does, well, I am reasonably agile.

Moral considerations: Napoleon V was clearly less altruistic than she put on; that wasn't necessarily bad, but she was capable of harsh measures and had a more than reasonable amount of power-hunger. But that's why Par had one more chance to quit; if the initial job involved murdering babies, he was prepared to just refuse, then talk his way out...

------

Meanwhile, in Par's Warehouse...

"Message from the Barge!" Midna said to Eric and Alfredo. "They say the people at Vicksburg have recieved reports of a massive Raider Army approaching! If those reports prove to be true...we and Par will be cut off."

@Ordure, @Tuxedo Fox, @Lord Coake, @Ulstermann, @Vulkan
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Ulstermann
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Ulstermann My name's Friday

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@Tuxedo Fox

SECONDARY QUEST- A Light in the Darkness

"Looks like we made it here." Boss called as Carson crossed to the side to check how close the barge was to shore. 

"Yeah, man, we did. I gotta say, I didn't think this old rust bucket would hold up, but your pilot definitely proves the opposite." Carson turned from the rail. "Right, we're close enough." He crossed the deck, stopping next to Boss. "You look like you're ready to roll. Give me a sec, I'll check out the opposition." He pulled a pair of Zeiss binoculars from his pack, scanning the lighthouse. 

The Southern Star had been quite a large ship, acting as a floating HQ for the Marauder band led by Samuel "Sixfinger" Scarrow, one of the most violent plagues of the Gulf of Mexico. The Order gunners had done a fine job, however. Their fire had crippled the freighter, sending her aground afire and out of control. The impact had split the ship in two, and both halves now rested around the small island of rock on which Marat Lighthouse stood. Most of her crew had been killed in the crash, but enough survived to easily occupy the lighthouse and it's tiny island. 

"Ship's crawling with the bastards." Carson said. "Looks like the only way we can get to the lighthouse is through the wreckage. Of course it is. Why make anything easy?" The major smiled to himself. "Spoke to my guy on your radio just now-he'is holed up in the lighthouse storm shelter, underneath the rock." 

Carson lit a cigar, smoking thoughtfully for a moment. "So we go through the ship, kill anything that looks at us the wrong way, get to the lighthouse, turn on the light, and rescue Hartmann.  Simple, right?" He handed the binos to Boss. "Have a look-see, tell me if I missed anything. Remember that the Marauder captain has a price on his head too, we might wanna collect his scalp if we meet him." 

@Letter Bee

"The specifics? Hagen can help you there." Napoleon V downed her drink. "If you do ask instructed, and get back alive,  maybe we'll talk again." 

Hagen stepped forward. "Let's go, kid." He growled, guiding Par to the exit. At the door the gnarled Revolutionary handed the trader a ragged envelope. "Job's in there. Read, obey, and return here, and maybe the chief will have some use for you. Now fuck off." With that last charming remark Hagen slammed the door, leaving Par in the square. 

Inside the are the following quest details.

SECONDARY QUEST-Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

Location: Millot District
Player: Letter Bee
Faction: Revolution

The Millot District is Orleans' greatest centre of science and technology. It has been spared the worst of the fighting thus far, both sides recognising the importance of high technology in governing the city. You will make your way there and make contact with Armand Ney, one of the most valuable members of the Cercle Lumiere, a company which designs and repairs the city's power grid, from lamp posts to force fields and laser turrets. 

The Revolution wants Ney on their side. With him under their thumb, the Revolution will be able to sabotage more and more of the Orders installations and infrastructure in the future. 

Convince, bribe, or threaten Ney into supporting the Revolution. If he proves uncooperative, blackmail may be a valuable tool. Rumours say he cheats on his wife with a certain prostitute working out of Bourbon Avenue's brothel. Proof of Ney's infidelity  might work if bribery or sweet talking fails.

Hidden 9 yrs ago 9 yrs ago Post by Letter Bee
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"The specifics? Hagen can help you there." Napoleon V downed her drink. "If you do ask instructed, and get back alive, maybe we'll talk again."

Hagen stepped forward. "Let's go, kid." He growled, guiding Par to the exit. At the door the gnarled Revolutionary handed the trader a ragged envelope. "Job's in there. Read, obey, and return here, and maybe the chief will have some use for you. Now fuck off." With that last charming remark Hagen slammed the door, leaving Par in the square.

Inside the are the following quest details.

SECONDARY QUEST-Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

Location: Millot District
Player: Letter Bee
Faction: Revolution

The Millot District is Orleans' greatest centre of science and technology. It has been spared the worst of the fighting thus far, both sides recognising the importance of high technology in governing the city. You will make your way there and make contact with Armand Ney, one of the most valuable members of the Cercle Lumiere, a company which designs and repairs the city's power grid, from lamp posts to force fields and laser turrets.

The Revolution wants Ney on their side. With him under their thumb, the Revolution will be able to sabotage more and more of the Orders installations and infrastructure in the future.

Convince, bribe, or threaten Ney into supporting the Revolution. If he proves uncooperative, blackmail may be a valuable tool. Rumours say he cheats on his wife with a certain prostitute working out of Bourbon Avenue's brothel. Proof of Ney's infidelity might work if bribery or sweet talking fails.


SECONDARY QUEST - Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

Par only smiled as he read from the letter, before placing it in his pockets. Once he returned to his Bodyguards and Carrie, the latter asked:

"How did it go?"

"Well, let's just say that there might be hope in this enterprise, after all. However, you and Samuel," Samuel was one of Par's bodyguards, "will have to return back to the warehouse; inform the others that I and the rest will be away for most of the night."

A nod; Carrie was already speculating on what 'private business' Par was planning to conduct; he was a newbie in the cloak and dagger business, but she was moreso, and she understood - although she was a little aggravated - how she couldn't help.

"Be safe," was all she could say, before Par turned back to her and smiled, saying:

((Edited with Ulstermann's permission))

"I'll be okay; I'm sure that that person won't be as loyal as that Super Mutant."

And with that, Par went off to Millot District with his surrounding guards...

------

The reports of Raiders trying to sack Vicksburg were true; Par's Uncles were busy preparing for the siege, and thus cannot provide help to their nephew anymore.

------

Millot district was a fine place, filled with surprisingly clean laboratories and research facilities, as well as crude solar and wind power plants. To Par, it felt like home, and the whirring of windmills brought a nostalgic touch to him.

However, he was going to have to change clothes again; Armand Ney was a gentleman, after all. So, after seeking out an alleyway, Par switched to his formal wear, then walked out, bodyguards in tow.

Asking a female scientist for directions to Armand Ney's residence, Par found out that it was in one of the few mansions in the district; most of the scientists preferred to live in their laboratories.

Pressing the bottom of the intercom, Par then spoke:

"Hello, is this the residence of one Armand Ney? My name is Paradise 'Par' Rapids, and I'm a Merchant Prince from the Far North, who wants to negotiate a deal with him!"

@Ordure
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Ulstermann
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Ulstermann My name's Friday

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@Letter Bee

SECONDARY QUEST- Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

The intercom hissed for a moment. Then a smooth and cultured voice came from the speaker. 

"This is indeed Doctor Ney's residence. You wish to negotiate a deal? Very well. The Doctor allows for traders to meet with him. Hold, please." 

The gate buzzed, opening slowly.

Once Par was inside the mansion a man wearing a fancy housecoat crossed the imposing entrance hall. "Mr...Rapids, was it?" The servant said, gesturing with a hand. "Follow me please-alone, if you would. Your friends will have to remain here." 

Par was led to a plush office, with walls panelled with dark, polished wood. Sat in a dark red armchair was Armand Ney, a thin man with a neatly groomed beard wearing a spotless lab coat. He looked up as the servant waved Par forward. 

"Thank you, Sebastian." Ney said, his voice educated and smooth. He stood but didn't offer his hand. 

"Mr Rapids, I am Doctor Ney." The man introduced himself as the servant left. "I understand you have business with me?" He broke off as a handsome woman of about 40 years old entered the office. 

"Armand, I got those theatre tickets you wanted." She said. 

Ney nodded. "Thank you, Sylvia. We'll doubtless enjoy "L'Avare". " He waited until his wife had left before turning back to Par.

"So, what do you want to sell? Or are you looking to buy?"

Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by The Nexerus
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"This here's David Wilcox's 'Riverboat Fantasy'. The story of my life, ladies and gentlemen, and here's hoping it's the story of yours too."

Marty Graw cracked a smile as the song came on, entirely unable to resist the urge to hum along and bob his head. The same tune could be heard playing all across the Bayou Wasteland, picked up on any working radio and listened to by kindred spirits from all five districts and beyond, pushing the Radio Fantasy agenda of free love and living life to the fullest. The broadcast's wide breath was made possible by the extremely powerful broadcast equipment on board the Cajun Queen, 'borrowed' from the French Revolution over twenty years ago. Those twenty years had been made all the more rockin' for it, though, and Marty doubted that Napoleon really minded a few deserted grunts and a nicked transmitter. Radio Fantasy was a useful propaganda tool, after all, eagerly informing the people of the abuses of the Order, and somewhat hesitantly giving favourable review of French Revolution—even though Marty wasn't much of a fan of them, either. Still, the Cajun Queen wasn't likely to keep afloat unless she had at least one major power on her side, and the Revolution seemed to be the lesser of two evils.

The Cajun Queen was Marty's vessel, a very wasteland-looking riverboat full of radio broadcast equipment, which served as the mobile broadcaster of Radio Fantasy. She looked simultaneously friendly and intimidating, welcoming kindred spirits on board with flashy decals and bright colours, and warding off troublemakers, human and beast, with defensive spikes and mounted turrets. The riverboat was also Marty's home, housing both him and a baker's dozen other kindred spirits, all of whom helped keep the Cajun Queen going and Radio Fantasy belching her tunes for all to hear. First among equals, besides Marty Graw himself, were Marie Rose and Eugene Zemurray. Both of them had been friends of Marty since before he stumbled across the Cajun Queen, and both served equally important purposes for the Kindred Spirits of Her Majesty. Eugene, going on sixty now, was a coffee skinned communications technician, in charge of keeping the Cajun Queen's engines running and keeping Radio Fantasy's equipment broadcasting. He was the oldest on board by a decade, and was generally treated as the man in charge if Marty was absent. Marie, of French extraction, blonde haired and blue eyed, was in her late thirties, and ran the part of the crew tasked with defending it against asshole raiders taking potshots at anything that moved. She was a crack shot with her customized gauss rifle, 'Joyeuse', and was probably responsible for more exploded skulls than everyone else on board the Cajun Queen combined. Her accuracy, and the accuracy of the other kindred spirits keeping the Cajun Queen free of holes, was enough that most of the wiser raiders didn't even make an attempt when they saw Her Majesty floating down the river. The Order usually didn't either; there were things they hated more than rock stations, evidently, but Marty and the rest of the Kindred Spirits usually made a point of avoiding them nonetheless. If the dissent that Radio Fantasy offered up wasn't reason enough for them to get shot at, the crates full of jet in the ship's cargo probably were, so it was better safe than sorry.

As the song died down, replaced by a blues number, Marty felt a nudge on his shoulder, and turned around to find a visitor to the Cajun Queen standing there, staring at him. Perplexed for a moment, the gears eventually starting spinning in his brain again, and he smiled and laughed.

"Shit, haha, right! Nearly forgot about that. Just a matter of..." Marty paused for a second, holding on that note, as he reached over and flicked a switch on a complicated looking machine to the left of his chair. A faint whirring sound filled the broadcast room, and Marty's eyes turned back to the controls in front of him. Grabbing a nondescript holotape off of the table, he set it into its slot, and then gave the man standing behind him the thumbs up. "...And that should do it." After putting a few recordings in the cue for Radio Fantasy, Marty stood up from his chair and turned back around to face the visitor again.

"Napoleon and I are square now, right? I'm not gonna get called in to 'assist the Revolution' any more?"

The visitor, standing tall in heavy riot gear, gave a simple nod. Marty then raised an eyebrow, looked the man over from head to toe and bellowed out a hearty laugh.

"You guys don't talk much, huh? Care for some jet? One of the kindred spirits is a hell of a chemist, makes that 'Ultra' stuff." Before the revolutionary had time to refuse, Marty had pulled out a jet inhaler from a pouch in his jacket and was huffing away, to the tune of Riverboat Fantasy.

On a test receiver in another room, the contents of the holotape were playing, and a handful of residents of the Cajun Queen were listening in. Radio Fantasy officially had no connection to the French Revolution, so some of those on board were skeptical of the wisdom of assisting the Revolution so directly. However, they knew that Marty owed Napoleon a favour, and he wasn't a man to go back on his word. Broadcasting all across the Bayou Wasteland, emanating from the secondary, medium range transmitter of the Cajun Queen as she travelled down the Mississippi, was the holotape recording Napoleon's emissary had dropped off. Before sundown, any revolutionaries in waiting with the correctly tuned special equipment would be able to hear the speech, in the words of none other than Napoleon V herself, in the traditional language of Orleans.



"Mes chers concitoyens, hommes, femmes, et enfants de notre ce ville! Ecoutez-moi attentivement! Car l'heure approche de lancer la campagne finale qui otera le Roi et son cercle priviligie qui accable Notre peuple depuis bien trop long temps. Ce jour, attendu depuis tant d'annees, eat enfin proche. Prochainement, mes soldats, armes de foi et d'acier, prendra d'assaut les bastions d'ignorance et de repression que le Roi et ses chiens utilisent pour nos opprimer - la Bastille, dans la mort de la nuit - minuit. Vous joindre à nous, révolutionnaires, et nous allons détruire le symbole de l'oppression et la tyrannie qui sévit dans ce pays depuis si longtemps.

A mort le Roi! Vive le peuple!"

{My fellow citizens, men, women, and children of this fair city! Hear me now! For the hour is approaching where we launch the campaign to topple the King and his privileged circle who have weighed down our people for too long. The day, too long in coming, is upon us. Very soon, my soldiers, armed with faith and steel, will assault the bastions of ignorance and repression used by the King and his dogs to keep our noses in the dirt - the Bastille, in the dead of night - midnight. It will be a historic day. Join us, revolutionaries, and we will destroy the symbol of oppression and tyranny that has plagued this land for so long!}

{Death to the King! Long live the People!}




Seemed the war was about to start in earnest. Not that Marty cared, so long as his Cajun Queen was spared the gunfire, and the chems kept flowing. A time of death and despair was all the better occasion to live happily, after all. Hopefully the men with guns mostly killed each other this time.
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Letter Bee
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SECONDARY QUEST - Notheing Ventured, Nothing Gained.

Par took the measure of the man; old, courteous, clearly intelligent, but would brutal honesty work this time, with him? Finally, he ventured.

"Well, it's...variable. You see, I have an interest in photovoltaic equipment," photovoltaic being the academic word for Solar Technology, "especially that which can be miniaturized in order to fit a barge. I also have an interest in batteries, ones that can be hooked up to photovoltaic equipment in order to power a barge by night. In fact, I can even boast that I managed to rig such a craft, and I myself came to Orleans there." He then showed Ney his surprisingly calloused hands, proof that he had indeed been handling tools.

"Basically, power and energy are...fascinating, and I want to know how they work in Orleans, so as to improve my craft."

"But, if there's a monopoly on technological knowledge, or a ban on selling technology on anyone who might reverse-engineer it, I would like to know." Par planned to use this to segue into topics relating to politics, and from politics to the French Revolution, and after that, to use rational argument or bribery, as well as make a few promises, in order to get his allegiance...

@Ordure, @Ulstermann
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Ulstermann
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Ulstermann My name's Friday

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@Letter Bee

SECONDARY QUEST-Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

Dr. Ney looked at the young man-boy, really, to someone who was past their 40th birthday- with a new respect. "Damn me, son, you do know what you're talking about, don't you?" The doc shook his head in wonderment that such a young fellow was so specialised in his knowledge. The least he could do was satisfy the man's curiosity. 

"Photovoltaic technology in Orleans has been around since before the War. Since we've had a few generations of infrastructure and progress with the Order, photovoltaic power accounts for 23% of our output." The scientist spoke with years of experience behind him. "Are their any prohibitions on construction and research? Not really. Solar panels and the like are not used for any of the Order's essential defence needs, like turrets or force fields, so if some fellow can engineer a more efficient generator or something in a shack somewhere, why not? The Order can always take over the projects and use it themselves." A note of bitterness crept into his voice. "God knows, they've swooped in and taken enough if my work." 

He shook his head. "But I don't see how we can improve on anything you have already, to be honest. If you run a vessel on photovoltaic power, you might be able to teach us something yourself. Dr. O'Malley, for one, will want to know how you manage to maintain your equipment in the field. Our own photovoltaic power can be...fragile, which is why we don't use it more. A shame, really." the scientist shrugged. "Maybe I'd the world had used a little more we would never have had a Great War." 
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Letter Bee
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SECONDARY QUEST-Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

"Indeed," spoke Par. "as for the delicate nature of your own Photovoltaic cells, if I may be so bold, but perhaps it is because of lack of natural silicon and rare earths, forcing you to synthesize or salvage them? I did research on Louisiana's Pre-War Geography; you had immense petroleum reserves, but little other mineral resources. We have the same problem, but active sponsorship of better ways of synthesizing materials, as well as occasional trade with caravans from the west, make up for it." He then smiled.

"But I'm revealing too much; point is, though, a certain openness to outside trade and ideas helps in scientific development. And I have to beg pardon, but The Order doesn't seem to have that much openness." A nice hook-and-bait to draw out more of Ney's opinions of the Orleans Order, one that can easily be withdrawn if it proved to be offensive.

@Ordure, @Ulstermann
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Ulstermann
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@Letter Bee

SECONDARY QUEST- Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

"You hit the nail on the head, Mr. Rapids." Dr. Ney admitted, fitting a cigarette in a long ivory holder. "The Order has been slow in developing alternative sources of power generation. If I could, I would take a different direction. But it's politics that is the deciding factor here, not science. Unfortunately. But in Orleans, there isn't any real alternative. The Order gives us stability, up to a point." Ney shrugged. "At least they used to. Now, with the revolution gearing up for a fight, I'm not so sure how the game ends. Not that I can make a difference there."  
Hidden 9 yrs ago 9 yrs ago Post by Tuxedo Fox
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@Ulstermann
SECONDARY QUEST- A Light in the Darkness

Boss let out a laugh “Don't let her hear ya say that, her heads Big enough already. But yeah, I'm all ready to head out.” Letting go of Asshead who he'd still been leaning on to for support Boss could feel the plethora of drugs he had takein begin to fully take effect, a slightly numb and spacey feeling somewhat clouding his mind causeing him to reflixivley stare at his recently injured arm, his eyes stuck in momentary fascination as he watched the delicate muscles in his hand work in proper order.

Despite all the meds his arm still stung quite a bit; even worse in his mind was the realization that he now had to add yet another patch to his worn out duster. Atleast he still had an arm though.

He snapped back to attention when Carson spoke up, the man he had only known for a short while surveying the lighthouse with what looked like a rather nice pair of binoculars. Looking at the remains of what was locally known as the Southern Star strewn across the rocky shores of the small island-it was quite the sight Boss thought, the massive damage done to the ship speaking volumes to how committed the Order had been to sinking this ship. To bad the raiders seemed to have a decent Captain;someone who had been skilled enough to steer the failing ship to land before completely losing control.

Carson lit a cigar, smoking thoughtfully for a moment as Boss continued to survey the scene. "So we go through the ship, kill anything that looks at us the wrong way, get to the lighthouse, turn on the light, and rescue Hartmann.  Simple, right?"

Boss scoffed, quickly adding as Carson handed the binos to him. “Yeah, those simple plans always go smooth.”

"Have a look-see, tell me if I missed anything. Remember that the Marauder captain has a price on his head too, we might wanna collect his scalp if we meet him."

Carson finished as Boss took the offered pair of Binoculars, the little hand held device allowing him to see the number of men Carson spoke of much more clearly. Most mulled about or fucked with their weapons, often smoking and just looking for something to do in general. Of course they were also keeping a watchful if somewhat unatentive eye out for any intruders; no doubt their day would be ruined if they missed the chance to shoot some innocent bastard in the head.

Looking for anything that stood out or was worth taking note of Boss was somewhat surprised to find that nothing seemed to catch his eye; although he did notice that there was ample cover from the various wreckage and cargo strewn about the shore. Atleast that was something.

“Nothin stands out, just abuncha degenerate fucks. Nobodies walkin around like they are in chare iether-big guy is probably held up inside the actual lighthouse.” He tossed the binoculars back to Carson. “Leme just tell Cat to keep the motor runnin and grab some slugs, you see somethin on deck you wana bring to the party be my guest. Keep the items value under 100 caps though, can't forget I got a bottom line to take look after.” Without waiting for a response Boss turned to go and talk to Cat while simultaneously lighting up a cigarette. He returned moments later cradling his shotgun like a baby.

“Lets go get your buddy.” He pumped his shotgun, the familiar cha-chunk sounding in the air as a fresh shell found its way into the chamber. “And earn some caps while were at it.”

About to fall in line with Carson Boss quickly turned, as if suddenly remember something important. "Oh and you!" He barked at AssHead who had been following him like a dog. "You stay here and watch the ship with Cat, shoot any unwelcome guests. Ok?"

Asshead let out an affirmitive but somewhat sad sounding gurgle of a noise.
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Ulstermann
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Ulstermann My name's Friday

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SECONDARY QUEST- A Light in the Darkness

"Let's go get your buddy." Boss declared, racking a shell into his shotgun. "And make some caps while we're at it." As Boss turned to give AH his instructions Carson scooped up a couple of frag grenades-always useful. He also grabbed some extra clips for his AK-74, filled with big, powerful 7.62mm rounds. He was happy enough as he dropped over the side of the barge into the shallow water. Moving to the rocks cluttering the small island he began to slowly head towards the wreckage of the Southern Star, using the uneven ground as cover. 

Once he had gotten as far forward as possible he crouched behind a large section of the wreck's bulkhead that had been torn off by the freighter's terrific impact with the rocks. Once Boss joined him the major leaned close to the other man, keeping his voice low so that the chem addict playing with his gun a couple of metres away wouldn't hear. 

"Easiest way to get to the lighthouse is across the bridge they've laid out of planks and shit." He hissed, pointing to the makeshift crossing far above. "It's right next to the bridge-you see it? There's a bastard with a scoped rifle up there too, so keep your head down."The major hesitated. "Look, I don't wanna teach you how to suck eggs or anything, but the best way to take em is tactically." He wasn't sure Boss knew what he meant. "By that I mean coordination. You're a pro with that shotgun, so we need you to get as close as possible. Plenty of cover here, so you should be able to avoid taking a bullet easy enough." 

The officer pointed to the stairs leading from the Southern Star's lowest level, the bilge, into the ship, which had been bared to the elements when the vessel broke her back. 

There were five Marauders hanging around the bilge. A couple played cards on an overturned crate, one was jabbing a vial of Med-X into his arm, one was tinkering with his gun not far from where Carson and Boss hid. Another, the leader from the way he shouted abuse at the others, sat on the stairs with a bulky flamer across his knees.

"I'll try to get to the walkway on the south side of the ship." Carson went on. "I'll cover you from there as you make your way forward. We should be able to deal with these fools easily-most of em are as high as kites." 
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One Week Prior - Gonzales, Northeast of Orleans


Dr. Franklin Arlington III and his ever-loyal bodyguard Scar had arrived in the rugged town of Gonzales on their way to the trading hub of Orleans. Seeing this as a fine time to set up shop for a day, they assembled their makeshift stand in the town centre. Their quick construction had assembled a crowd of townsfolk, just in time for Franklin to unveil their "product" to the mass of people.

"Ladies and gentleman, children and grandparets, I am Dr. Franklin Arlington III! I come to you from far to the North, where my compatriot and I unearthed a brand new product: Nuka-Cola Lemon!" With these words and a flourish, he revealed to the crowd a selection of sealed Nuka-Cola sodas, each with a bright yellow coloring in the encased liquid. "Found deep in the bowels of a Nuka-Cola factory in the ruins of Nashville, this soda contains the long-lost pre-war fruit flavor of the mysterious Lemon! Tangy and sour at first, but with a quick shot of sweetness, Nuka-Cola Lemon is sure to bring a delightful taste to your next meal, perfect for those of all ages!" The crowd of townspeople absolutely adored Franklin's little speech, and were quick to buy up every single bottle of the new soda. After collecting their decent-sized caps payment from the town, Franklin and Scar were quick to vacate the scene, just in time too, as the first bottle had been opened. With a gulp, a spit take, and a bit of gagging, a single cry of anguish and anger trailed their successful escape.

"It's a fucking bottle of piss!"

Present Day - Orleans Proulx District


Arriving in Orleans, Franklin and Scar once again began to set up their ramshackle booth. It didn't gather nearly the same crowd as before, sharing many a trait with the other peasant vendors in the District. Once it was done, Franklin again began to shout out advertisements of his wares to the passers-by. "You there, sir! Yes, you! You look like you could use a new weapon. A fully-functional, fresh-out-the-box Laser Pistol, only 150 Caps!" "Madam, you look like a woman of distinguished taste. This stunning Pre-War Dress would look perfect on you, only 65 Caps!" As the crowd around his stand slowly grew, Scar's intimidating feature was capable of warding off most of those demanding refunds for their broken products.

([Master Trader] for seeing how much money they collect, [Terrifying Presence] to keep all but the most rough-and-tumble hecklers away)

@Ordure
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Letter Bee
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@Letter Bee

SECONDARY QUEST- Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

"You hit the nail on the head, Mr. Rapids." Dr. Ney admitted, fitting a cigarette in a long ivory holder. "The Order has been slow in developing alternative sources of power generation. If I could, I would take a different direction. But it's politics that is the deciding factor here, not science. Unfortunately. But in Orleans, there isn't any real alternative. The Order gives us stability, up to a point." Ney shrugged. "At least they used to. Now, with the revolution gearing up for a fight, I'm not so sure how the game ends. Not that I can make a difference there."


SECONDARY QUEST- Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

Par chuckled.

"Are you so sure about that? There are other ways to fight besides brawn." A smile. "You know the intricacies of Orleans' Power Grid and related infrastructure, and we both know how much the Order needs power for its luxuries and the defense of its luxuries." Par instinctively straightened his glasses, and began inching towards the big reveal.

"I'll tell you a secret; my parents were killed by the Order back when it was anti-trade, just a few years or so ago. They would have wanted me to bury the hatchet with the Order if it meant profit, but, well, let's just say that the Order snubbed me when I tried to give our relations a new start." He waited for the shock to settle on Ney's face.

"You're a knowledgable person; we're both knowledgable people. This conflict, like most historical conflicts between a rotten regime and a morally dubious, but genuinely aggrieved, bunch of rebels, is going to get worse instead of better. So," Par began to risk things, "why not join the faction that offers you not just a reward, but whose aims would give you more freedom to develop benign scientific research?" [Int 10]

"That is what I eventually did." [Cha 9]

More shock; the next few moments were the deciding factor.

@Ordure
Hidden 9 yrs ago Post by Ulstermann
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Ulstermann My name's Friday

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@Letter Bee

SECONDARY QUEST-Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained

"Well, son, I'm sorry for your loss." Ney said, "But I'm not convinced. Say I do throw in my lot with the rebels. They might win in the long run, but what happens in the meantime?Or in the aftermath? Anarchy. Chaos. I saw enough of that while I was a kid in Illinois to know I don't want to see any more. " The doc lit his cigarette. 

"And you speak of rewards, and freedom to conduct research. But I'm no fool. Any advances I make would be stolen from me by the Revolution, as the Order has done. That's the nature of government and bureaucracy." Ney shook his head. "I've seen it all over the wastes." Then he hesitated, just for a second. "What sort of rewards are we talking about here?"
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