Intrigue at the OmRe Wargames: Rumors of a Gaule contestant wanting to quit, with Consortium officials seemingly scrambling to take the advantage. Mysterious request to intervene, but to what end? The fate of the athlete, and possibly, system diplomacy is at stake!
Level: 16
Start: Paulo Reiser, Government Center, Ross 154 Jump Gate
Introduction
As one of the busier stations, Ross 154 Jump Gate handles all the flow of travelers for three differently aligned stations within the system, resulting in the administrative bottleneck evident inside the Government Center. You notice exhausted clerks trying to service the ever impatient visitors as swiftly as they can, looking forlorn at the never decreasing queues. To ease the burden, you see several citizens, wearing small ‘Volunteer’ badges, trying to guide people to the correct queues and showing them alternative options using the holo-screens.
Usually a layover station, once a cycle it hosts the huge OmRe Wargames contest in their newly built Stadium, adding to the already high flow of traffic. Signs for the current VR-powered combat event are everywhere, with a buzz of excitement from staff and visitors alike. Within the Government Center you see all around huge holo-banners and bright AR displays showcasing the competitors and highlights of the on-going tournament.
You notice a small man standing inconspicuously by the doorway, checking out the incoming flow of people as if trying to discern something. He spots you and starts walking your way, and you see him silently wave away an approaching volunteer, who nods and moves onto another visitor. As the man gets closer, you see him wearing simple Consortium clothing with no distinguishable rank or department.
Paulo Reiser: Hello <name>, I'm Paulo Reiser, I've been waiting for someone of your temperament to pass through these doors. If you're interested, I have a lucrative proposal for you. I need some assistance in retrieving something, I mean we obviously, the Consortium that is.
- "How do you know of me?"
- "You need to look elsewhere, I can't help you with this."
- "What do you mean about my "temperament"?"
- "Go on, I'm listening."
Temperament:
Me: My "temperament"? What's that supposed to mean?
Know of me:
Me: What have you heard of me?
Both choices continue:
You see him smile, and he pulls you to one side, away from the masses going through the doors, before continuing.
Paulo Reiser: Your exploits back on Sol and Alpha Centauri have reached our attention even as far out as here on Ross 154. You've handled yourself well in the past, discreet and effective, exactly what we're looking for, regarding a sensitive matter. Officially we would need to abide by proper diplomatic decorum, but you seem like the ideal candidate to allow us to take an alternative route, one that circumvents the bureaucratic and established regulations in these cases. Your assistance will of course be rewarded and greatly appreciated.
Go on:
Me: Go ahead, I'm listening.
You see him smile, and he pulls you to one side, away from the masses going through the doors, before continuing.
Paulo Reiser: We need some help regarding a sensitive matter. Officially we would need to abide by proper diplomatic decorum, but you seem like the ideal candidate to allow us to take an alternative route, one that circumvents the bureaucratic and established regulations in these cases. Your assistance will of course be rewarded and greatly appreciated.
All three choices continue:
- "You need to look elsewhere, I can't help you with this."
- "What's the case?"
Look elsewhere:
You're not interested in this suspicious looking man's request. With a small shake of your head, you back away and leave the man standing there alone.
You have failed the "A Farewell to Armors" mission. You can retake this mission and try again.
What's the case:
Me: So, what's the case? Why the need to be discreet?
Paulo Reiser: Great questions, and I will gladly answer them in due time, but I just can't give you confidential information without taking some necessary steps to protect ourselves. I will need your agreement to a contract before we can continue. Please have a look and mark the end with your digital signature, that will make it official, at least between us that is.
You receive a document through your CORETECHS, noticing that it has an encrypted sender identity and several protections against transferring or copying said file. A level of digital security you've never encountered before.
Reading through it, you see that while it leaves out any specific details, it is very clear in setting out the end goals and stipulations for completion. You will need to retrieve, hide for an undisclosed time period and then return to him directly when called upon, all of which without any off-station travel. No indication of what you have to "retrieve" or why these steps are needed. At the end, you see a small reference to the "Department of Acquisitions".
Me: So what's this Department of Acquisitions? I've never heard of it.
Paulo Reiser: Just a small part of Consortium Intelligence, so do you agree? Please go ahead and sign it.
- "Ok I'll sign it, let me just have another look first."
- "I've changed my mind, this looks too dodgy for me."
Too dodgy:
Me: The contract looks a bit strange, and his vagueness is a little suspicious. Though the payoff is much higher than any other job you've done before, there's something that worries you. You walk away from Paulo Reiser with a polite nod.
You have failed the "A Farewell to Armors" mission. You can retake this mission and try again.
OK:
Taking a quick look at the strange contract before signing it, the 400 credit payout making this type of unusual agreement worth it. Also you double check what repercussions you may have if you fail in your task. Seeing none involving the law, just a general "gag order" to not share any classified information, you decide to go ahead.
Me: Sure I'll sign it, give me a second.
Once you've inputted your digital mark, it automatically gets sent through, leaving you with a heavily redacted version in your database. You look at him and ask again for the details of his proposal.
Paulo Reiser: Well as you're aware, we have a sensitive diplomatic situation here in this system. Currently the Consortium is working closely with the Gaule, well at least negotiating without any open hostility. We need to keep this false sense of cooperation until the LeGuin affair has been dealt with. Which comes to the case in question.
You see him take a dramatic pause, and leans in to keep his voice down.
Paulo Reiser: We have been contacted by a Gaule contestant at the OmRe Wargames that wants to quit his team and leave them. As you can tell, this is a very complicated circumstance as the Gaule team from Madame de Pompadour is here for the first time as per our invite. This tournament provides the perfect cover for us to help this Gaule athlete but it is imperative that we do not incur the blame for this, which is where you come in.
- "What's the situation with LeGuin station?"
- "Can't you just say no?"
- "Who's the athlete?"
LeGuin:
Me: "What's the situation with LeGuin Stronghold?"
You see him give an exasperated look, showing some annoyance with the subject of your question.
Paulo Reiser: It's been cycles of covert discussions between the Consortium and the Gaule over the future of that Independent station. They don't like the idea of a fully separate entity within this system, with both using each other's advances to push their own case for integration. The Consortium wants them back into the fold, with the Gaule hoping to acquire them, evening out the power balance in the system. Most importantly, any success of this Independent station puts both affiliations under significant pressure, as citizens of both will start to question the need for their rule.
- "Can't you just say no?"
- "Who's the athlete?"
Athlete:
Me: So, who's this Gaule athlete?
As you ask your question you see him look up at one of the holo-posters floating above you as if he's waiting for something. After a few moments, his eyes light up and directs you to look up as well. You see a slow moving shot, with the camera angle starting from the feet and edging upwards. The view showcasing a special set of armor and haptic gear, worn by a huge, intimidating man. When the shot finally reaches the head you see the name "RAMIUS" flashing across.
Paulo Reiser: His name is Vincent Ramius, a highly distinguished Gaule soldier, now OmRe athlete, and it has come to our attention that he is distraught with his life on Madame De Pompadour, or at least with life in the military. He made contact with us to see if we could help him escape and set up a new path away from his obligations to the Gaule cause.
- "Can't you just say no?"
Me: Why don't you just reject this athlete's request? Or at least not get involved at all, let the Gaule deal with this.
You see him contemplate your question, as if trying to pick his response very carefully.
Paulo Reiser: You're not wrong with your assessment <name>, but this is an opportunity that we cannot ignore. The Gaule have been using highly advanced technology that we are not fully informed of. The information we can acquire from this athlete will put us at a significant advantage when dealing with their military strength in the future. It could save us cycles' worth of research and time.
- "Ok, so what's the plan?"
Me: So, what are the next steps, is there a plan?
Paulo Reiser: Of course there's a plan, but it requires careful timing on your part. You will need to go to the Stadium to speak with Vincent Ramius before his event. Have him ready to depart as soon as he is finished, before the team heads back to their embassy.
- "How will I reach him?"
- "What about the cameras?"
- "The Gaule are staying at the Embassy?"
Cameras:
Me: Won't the cameras in the Stadium pick up his movements?
Paulo Reiser: I will disable the network of cameras backstage from here, though I won't be able to do all of the ones in the Stadium, that will look very suspicious. It should still give you enough time to switch to incognito on your CORETECHS and put on a disguise.
He hands you two gold colored cloaks, large enough to easily fit on top of any other clothing. As you get a closer look, you see the cloaks have various AR features that project holo-signs through the OmRe view, standard fan attire for these kinds of events.
Paulo Reiser: With these you should fit in with the mass of fans from The House of Syria. They will be exiting at that time, you should leave with them. But, very importantly, tell Vincent to remove his haptic headgear and any other tracker he has on.
- "How will I reach him?"
- "The Gaule are staying at the Embassy?"
Embassy:
Me: The Gaule team is staying at the Embassy? Why not the Hotel or the Stadium?
Paulo Reiser: They don't trust us, or anyone that is. I guess they think they can control things better at their Embassy. Very protective of their tech they are, some of their best scientists have been working on these special suits and firearms for cycles. First time we'll all get to see it in action, only caught moments of them myself in some private footage we recovered.
You see him stare off for a second with a look of longing on his face.
Paulo Reiser: You can't let Vincent leave with the team for the Embassy, it will be too difficult to get him then. The Stadium is our best chance at this.
- "How will I reach him?"
Me: How will I get through to speak with him? Aren't the athletes kept separated from the spectators?
Paulo Reiser: I'll send you a premium pass for the event. It will give you backstage access, where you'll be able to speak with Vincent. Usually the star contestants have a "meet and greet" with the fans, I'm sure he will be participating, the Gaule will want to show off their champions.
He takes a moment and you notice you've received a special pass for the OmRe Wargames event being held at the Stadium.
Paulo Reiser: Let Vincent know that I've sent you, and get him prepared to leave right after his event.
- "Won't they be able to track us outside the Stadium?"
- "Where should we go when we leave?"
Track us:
Me: Won't the cameras outside the Stadium be able to track us?
Paulo Reiser: Not if you go straight to the Ruins, the old jump gate on this station. There's no surveillance over there, and even though it is sectioned off with a tall barrier, there are several ways past it.
Me: And after the Ruins?
Where:
Me: Where should we go once we've left the Stadium?
Paulo Reiser: Go straight to the Ruins, the Old Jump Gate on this station. There's no surveillance over there, and even though it is sectioned off with a tall barrier, there are several ways past it.
Me: And once we get there, what next?
Either choice continues:
Paulo Reiser: Just take Vincent and wait for me to contact you. Make sure you stay hidden, find a spot that you can lay-low for, at least until the Gaule have calmed down, they're going to be livid when they realize what has happened.
You see him have a strange moment of glee at his last comment, but turns back to a serious tone and continues.
Paulo Reiser: I would stay away from the abandoned buildings on the edges, they are home to all manner of criminals, if they find you, they'll sell you and your equipment up to the highest offer.
- Prepare to set off.
Paulo Reiser: So I believe you have everything you'll need. The special pass, the sports cloaks, also don't forget to inform Vincent that you'll be waiting for him backstage as soon as his event is finished. You will probably only have one chance to leave along side the departing fans, so you both have to be ready.
You pack up the cloaks and remind him about cameras.
Paulo Reiser: All the ones backstage will be switched off after his event. You put the fan disguises on then and just meld in with the crowd. Remember, adjust your CORETECHS and get him to remove any tracking devices. Then go hide out in the Ruins and wait for my call. You should set off, the Wargames will be starting soon.
You say your goodbyes and head towards the exit.
Go to the Stadium
Next NPC: Vincent Ramius, Decommissioned Area, Ross 154 Jump Gate
- Get through to Vincent
As you walk through the promenade of the massive structure of the Stadium, you are dazzled by the multitude of holo-banners and flashy signs seen through the AR overlay. Displaying mainly participants from the Jump Gate, you notice several other Consortium teams as well as a few from Gaule and Independent stations. You head towards one of the entrances, going past hundreds of excited fans.
You show your special pass at the gate and are ushered through inside and below the Stadium. While other fans are directed straight towards their seats, it seems that your premium access allows you to conjugate outside the player locker rooms, giving fans a chance to see their favorite contestants up close.
You spot Vincent Ramius and the rest of the Gaule team on one side, addressing a group of people, slowly and methodically greeting each waiting fan. You join in at the end and wait your turn to speak with the players, and notice that Vincent is last amongst his team, looking very uncomfortable with this self-promotion aspect of the sport. You quickly greet the other athletes and finally speak with him.
Vincent Ramius: Hello, happy to meet you. Please support our team in the upcoming match. We appreciate all the fans.
- "Hold up, can we speak privately?"
- "I'm a huge fan, can I ask you some questions please?"
Huge fan:
Me: I'm a huge fan Vincent, can I ask you some questions please?
Being within touching distance, you can see how imposing he is. A large man, even when compared to other athletes, tall and wide, doubly so because of the unique armor he is wearing. He gives you a bored look, unwilling to take the time. You lean in and whisper to avoid being heard by anyone else.
Privately:
Me: Hi, hold on a minute, er… can we speak privately Vincent?
Being within touching distance, you can see how imposing he is. A huge man, even when compared to other athletes, tall and wide, doubly so because of the unique armor he is wearing. He gives you a quizzical look, unsure on what to say. You lean in and whisper to avoid being heard by anyone else.
Either choice continues:
Me: Paulo Reiser sent me. I need a minute in private to explain the plan.
His eyes light up in recognition of the name, looking around at the surrounding people, he loudly goes on.
Vincent Ramius: Yes of course. I always have time for my fans.
You shuffle to the side away from his team members and other fans. He goes along and tries to give the impression that he is placating an eager fan, as not to raise any questions.
Vincent Ramius: So, what's the plan?
Me: You need to be ready to leave right after your match. I will be here waiting for you.
You explain all the details, the turn down of the CORETECHS, the fan disguises and the removal of all tracking devices.
Vincent Ramius: Yes I know, Paulo made it very clear to keep my armor on at all costs. I will meet you here after my match. It is about to begin soon, I have to go <name>.
With that, he departs, joining the rest of the Gaule team heading towards the Stadium field. You take the opportunity to go up to your seat to watch the event and keep a close eye on the timing.
- Watch the OmRe Wargames.
You go up the stairs leading to the seating area of the Stadium, finding your spot through the narrow aisles and tight arrangements of seats. You look around at a massive open-top building, filled up with screaming spectators. Huge AR screens are set up in multiple parts for a close up view of the action, or you can see through the CORETECHS special VR functionality. Through either option, the build-up to the upcoming event is brimming with flashy imagery.
The two teams take to the field and you see groups of six contestants on each side, one representing The House of Syria and the other from Madame de Pompadour, the only Gaule team at the games. The central AR screen shows the competitor names, Syria Stars versus Pompadour Protectors. Fans of each are celebrating wildly, setting off virtual flares within the Stadium, red for the Gaule, gold for The House of Syria.
You see the arena has been set up as a fake battlefield, with small walls and obstacles in the middle separating two elevated bases on either side. Each one is surrounded by a barrier with a single entrance that leads inside to a mounted flag in the center. Seems like the goal is to reach the other's base and claim it. The two teams set up on each side of the arena, getting ready for the start of the competition. You hear a loud horn and the event kicks off to jubilant screams from the fans.
You immediately take notice of what the AR integration offers. All offensive weaponry are solely experienced through the special OmRe technology, allowing for deadly battle without endangering participants or spectators. The athletes defensive capabilities taking virtual damage with each hit, but still able to show off their full range of functions. A safe and exciting visual experience.
The participants move across the field, with the Gaule team leaving four of their team behind to protect their base, while the Syria Stars leaving only one. You quickly notice that there's a significant difference in skill and equipment, with the Gaule team easily outperforming their opponents. In fact you watch Vincent take down three in quick succession, using a combination of brute strength and an advanced weapons array. His last "kill" being replayed on a loop on the AR screen, showcasing the special reflective countermeasure he implements to return enemy fire.
You note that the rest of the Gaule team has now taken it easy, allowing Vincent to go ahead with his path of virtual destruction through the arena. Two more Stars are incapacitated by him, each with a different offensive maneuver, clinical executions. The Gaule fans are in a frenzy as they watch him approach the final stage. This match will be over very soon, time to go down and wait backstage.
- Prepare to leave with Vincent Ramius.
You head down the stairs to the backstage area to wait for him. As you are walking, you hear a loud cheer from back in the arena, seems like the match has ended and you are right on time. While waiting, you notice that the overhead security cameras are not all rotating as they usually do, a good sign that they are incapacitated temporarily.
You see Vincent in the distance approaching down the arena tunnel. He is stopped by a young child all dressed in bright red, obviously a fan, who goes on to hug him. Removing his haptic headset, he gives it to the kid causing him to scream out in joy and run back to his family. He walks closer to you, all the while removing a small processor from the chest panel on his armor. He proceeds to drop it and slide it under a door he passes.
Vincent Ramius: If they follow the tracker on the headset, that should keep whoever searches for me, busy for a while. Do you have something handy for me to cover up with? A disguise or anything?
Me: Yeah, here you go.
You hand him one of the golden cloaks and he looks at it with some distain, but still puts it on top of his armor, drawing the hood up to cover his head. You put on yours and switch to incognito on your CORETECHS as he does the same. You see a few disappointed House of Syria fans walking through the backstage area towards the outside and you join behind them.
Passing through the exits without drawing any attention, you see a mass of gold wearing fans leaving the Stadium and walking down the promenade towards the rest of the station. You both swiftly attach yourselves to them and follow them along, keeping your heads down. Whilst the masses are headed to other parts of the station, you carefully slip away and go towards the Ruins.
Go to the Ruins
Next area: Ruins, Ross 154 Jump Gate
- Break into the Ruins.
You approach the ruins of the old jump gate, and see the tall metal fence sectioning it off from the rest of the station. You walk along it trying to find a way through and a few minutes later you discover a small opening on the fence itself. Though too small to fit through, it still could prove useful.
- Widen the opening to fit through.
- Use the opening to climb the fence.
- Ask Vincent for help.
Climb:
(Agility check)
You place your feet on the edges of the opening, using it to give you stable footing for your climb up the fence. Carefully positioning yourself, and pushing off from the available footholds, you manage to reach the top. Getting down is much easier, the opening leaving you a simple step and jump down to the ground. You look back through the crack and motion for Vincent to follow.
Me: Come on, just do what I did.
You hear Vincent grunt and then shakes his head. Seems like climbing isn't his forte. He rushes forward causing you to step back from the fence. He grabs the edges of the opening and starts to peal them outwards. With an incredible show of strength, he rips apart the crack and steps through the barrier. You're not sure if that was his equipment or just his own force, but it was an impressive display none-the-less.
Vincent Ramius: My way was better.
Widen:
(Strength check)
Looking through the opening itself, you spot a long metal bar just inside. You grab and use it as leverage to push your body weight against the other end. A few strong pushes, and you see you have opened the crack up even further, allowing you to step through. You look back through the crack and motion for Vincent to follow.
Me: Come on, just do what I did.
You hear Vincent grunt and then nods his head. Ignoring the metal bar entirely, he rushes forward causing you to step back from the fence. He grabs the edges of the opening and starts to peal them outwards. With an incredible show of strength, he rips apart the crack and steps through the barrier. You're not sure if that was his equipment or just his own force, but it was an impressive display none-the-less.
Vincent Ramius: My way was better.
Vincent:
Me: Hey, can you help me out with this?
You look at Vincent while pointing to the opening. You hear him grunt and then nods his head. He rushes forward and grabs the edges of the opening, starting to peal them outwards. With an incredible show of strength, he rips apart the crack and steps through the barrier. You're not sure if that was his equipment or just his own force, but it was an impressive display none-the-less. You step through after him.
Vincent Ramius: That was easy. Weak fence.
All paths continue:
You both set off deeper into the Ruins, looking out for a place to hide and lay low.
- Find a hide out.
You slowly make your way through the harsh terrain, littered with broken remnants of the old jump gate. Passing piles of trash and debris, you keep an eye out for anyone nearby. You see the collection of broken buildings in the distance, and hear blaster shots echoing your way. Keeping away from the dangerous outskirts, you continue to search through the desolate corridors.
Going down a dark passageway, you luckily spot an entrance blocked by a large fallen ceiling slab. You peak around it, and see a small room, filled with rubble, but with enough space to fit a few people. You could try to move the slab to get inside.
- Ask Vincent to help you.
- Move the ceiling slab to one side.
Vincent:
You get closer to the blocking slab and take a few moments thinking on how to move it. You turn to Vincent and he gives you an amused look.
Me: Hey, can you help me with this?
Vincent Ramius: No problem, easy for me.
You see him effortlessly lift the heavy slab and place it to one side like it was a piece of sheet metal. He hasn't even broken a sweat, that is one strong man. You both walk into the room.
Move:
(Strength check)
With a calculated shifting of the weight, you pull and push the slab a few times to gain momentum and with a final shove, you move it out of the way. You turn back to Vincent and he gives you an amused look. You both walk in.
Both paths continue:
- Secure the room.
Once inside, you have a look around. It must have been a large storage locker on the old jump gate, with several empty boxes and crates lying about.
Me: This looks as good a place as any to hide for a while, as long as we can secure the entrance.
Vincent Ramius: I will handle that.
You see him walk to the doorway and grab the thick slab that was blocking it earlier. He lifts and tilts it sideways to fit into the room. Placing it within the doorframe, he hits it a few times to lodge it into place. He then grabs a few of the crates and stacks them behind, adding further weight to the makeshift barrier.
Vincent Ramius: That should be sufficient. The metal walls will help mask us if they use heat-signature trackers to look for us.
Though you've never heard of anything like that, you believe him. Seeing him in action, both in the Stadium and here within the Ruins, proves he has a certain expertise on a few matters.
Me: There's no cameras here in Ruins, so they won't be able to find us through the security system anyways.
Vincent Ramius: So what's next? How long do we stay here?
- "Until the coast is clear."
- "Paulo said he would call to let us know."
Paulo:
Me: Paulo said he would call when the Gaule have calmed down.
Coast is clear:
Me: I guess we wait until the coast is clear.
Either choice continues:
Vincent Ramius: That won't happen anytime soon. Both the Gaule and Consortium will be looking for me now. Paulo needs to tell them that I've left the station.
Me: I'm sure Paulo will tell the Gaule whatever needs to be said, and he'll call soon.
Vincent Ramius: He needs to tell the Consortium too! That's what he said he'll do when he contacted me.
You see him start removing his armor, meticulously going through each part and softly unclasping several hinges holding it together.
- "What are you doing? Leave that on."
Me: What are you doing? You should keep that on for now, you never know if we come across any trouble.
Vincent Ramius: No, this is all Paulo or anyone else wants. This armor and just a small sample of my DNA to access the data within. I want to be rid of it finally.
You see him hold up a small vial of a reddish liquid, what looks like blood. He takes off the rest of the armor, leaving him with just a simple jumpsuit on.
- "Hold on, Paulo contacted you?"
- "Wait, you said the Consortium too, why?"
Consortium:
Me: Wait, what do you mean by the Consortium too? Paulo is Consortium, sure they're already informed.
Vincent Ramius: No he isn't, he works for HWT, you know, Hephaestus Weapons Tech. He might have some Consortium contacts, at least he promised he does. But he definitely works for HWT, I think Department of Acquisitions, yeah that was it.
- "Hold on, Paulo contacted you?"
Me: Hold on, Paulo contacted you? He told me you got in touch with him.
Vincent Ramius: Not me, I was on the Mesh speaking with local Security when he contacted me. He must have been scanning the chat, saw that I was angry and looking at options to get out. He offered me a deal.
- "Paulo told me he was Consortium."
Me: Paulo implied that he was with the Consortium. He didn't mention HWT.
Vincent Ramius: Would you have helped if he wasn't? Probably would have been a much harder sell on his part. Bet you he made you sign a contract as well, right?
Me: Yeah, how did you know?
Vincent Ramius: He's done the same with others he's worked with, some lady in Security warned me about him. Don't you worry, those contracts don't mean squat, even the Consortium law ignores them.
Vincent Ramius: I just want to be left alone. If Paulo can get the Consortium off my back, he can have the damn armor. I'm tired of this all, I just want out.
- "Why do you want to leave?"
- "What's so special about the armor?"
Want to leave:
Me: Why do you want to leave the Gaule?
Vincent Ramius: Leave? Leave! I wish I could just leave. They won't let me go!
You see him clearly very upset, holding his head in his large hands.
Vincent Ramius: I've been in the military nearly my whole life. Ever since I began compulsory service as basically a child, I have known only one thing. that individual rights are secondary to the sense of duty to the collective. I'm tired of pretending I believe in that Gaule mantra anymore.
He looks over at his armor and continues.
Vincent Ramius: Over five cycles ago, when I first expressed my desire to leave, they re-assigned me to Ajax Arms and Armor. Thought it would be better, but it was even worse. They were working on a new set of armor, and needed a test subject. Didn't think of it at the time, but that was a life contract. The armor is linked individually to each soldier, increasing reaction times of the defensive mechanisms. This is why Ajax and the military won't let me retire and leave, they have invested too much in this to just let me walk away.
Armor:
Me: What's so special about the armor?
He looks over at his armor and speaks up.
Vincent Ramius: That story began over five cycles ago, when I first expressed my desire to leave. Then the military assigned me to Ajax Arms and Armor. I thought it would be good, but it was even worse. They were working on a new set of armor, this armor, and needed a test subject. Didn't think of it at the time, but that was a life contract. The armor is linked individually to each soldier, increasing reaction times of the defensive mechanisms. This is why Ajax and the military won't let me retire and leave, they have invested too much in this to just let me walk away.
You see him clearly very upset, holding his head in his large hands.
Vincent Ramius: I've been in the military nearly my whole life. Ever since I began compulsory service as basically a child, I have known only one thing. that individual rights are secondary to the sense of duty to the collective. I'm tired of pretending I believe in that Gaule mantra anymore. I just want to leave in peace, but they won't let me go!
Both paths continue:
- "What will you do now?"
- "Where will you go?"
What will you do:
Me: What will you do now?
Vincent Ramius: I've been dreaming of leaving the military for so long. I want to be as far away from the industry as well, do the opposite, be involved in the molding of life, not the creation of death. Honestly, would love to be a farmer. There's no nature on Madame de Pompadour, except holo-images of trees and plants, even the water is unsafe. I imagine using these hands for something good and pure, growing food, tending to crops, anything where I won't be in a constant cycle of destruction.
You see him slowly drift into his thoughts, his eyes glazing over for a moment as he's thinking of a better life for himself. He pulls at a thin chain hanging from his neck, releasing it from under his suit. You see it holds a small green object encased in a clear plastic cover. As he stares longingly at the it, you recall it is a leaf, rare flora that was plentiful on old Earth. He continues.
Vincent Ramius: I've asked to be transferred to the Estación de Amazon station in the Barnard's Star system for ages, they always rejected my requests. It has a real rainforest! A Biome with all kinds of plants and fruit trees, with a clean river going through it. It even has a swamp, so much natural life. I got the impression that Ajax were the ones rejecting me, too much investment in this armor to just let me leave. The Gaule might have been ok with it, as long as I stayed in the military, but I cannot do that anymore.
You notice he has more to say, and stay quiet, watching him fiddle with the leaf in his hands.
Vincent Ramius: But now that I've made a run for it, going back to the Gaule will be difficult. I'll be facing a court martial at the very least. I was hoping to sneak onto a shuttle from here to The Ghost of Mali station in Alpha Centauri, go work as a farmer there. They have a place called Champ D’Espoir, fields where they grow all kinds of crops. I hear they could always use a set of strong hands, and with nearly no technology there, seems like best option within the Consortium. That is, if they don't extradite me to the Gaule.
Where will you go:
Me: Where are you going to go? Have you thought about it?
Vincent Ramius: Of course I've thought about it. Only thing on my mind for cycles. I've asked to be transferred to the Estación de Amazon station in the Barnard's Star system for ages, they always rejected my requests. It has a real rainforest! A Biome with all kinds of plants and fruit trees, with a clean river going through it. It even has a swamp, so much natural life. I got the impression that Ajax were the ones rejecting me, too much investment in this armor to just let me leave. The Gaule might have been ok with it, as long as I stayed in the military, but I cannot do that anymore.
You notice he has more to say, and stay quiet. He pulls at a thin chain hanging from his neck, releasing it from under his suit. You see it holds a small green object encased in a clear plastic cover. As he stares longingly at the it, you recall it is a leaf, rare flora that was plentiful on old Earth. He continues.
Vincent Ramius: But now that I've made a run for it, going back to the Gaule will be difficult. I'll be facing a court martial at the very least. I was hoping to sneak onto a shuttle from here to The Ghost of Mali station in Alpha Centauri, go work as a farmer there. They have a place called Champ D’Espoir, fields where they grow all kinds of crops. I hear they could always use a set of strong hands, and with nearly no technology there, seems like best option within the Consortium. That is, if they don't extradite me to the Gaule.
Still fiddling with the leaf, he slowly drifts into his thoughts, his eyes glazing over for a moment as he's thinking of a better life for himself.
Vincent Ramius: I've been dreaming of leaving the military for so long. I want to be as far away from the industry as well, do the opposite, be involved in the molding of life, not the creation of death. There's no nature on Madame de Pompadour, except holo-images of trees and plants, even the water is unsafe. I imagine using these hands for something good and pure, growing food, tending to crops, anything where I won't be in a constant cycle of destruction.
Both paths continue:
- "You should check up on Paulo before any deal."
- "I've done what I can, let's just wait for Paulo to call."
- "Did you contact the Consortium directly?"
- "Have you tried negotiating with the Gaule?"
Consortium:
Me: Have you tried talking to the Consortium directly? Maybe sort a deal out with them?
Vincent Ramius: Don't see how it would work. They would probably send me straight back to the Gaule or force me into their own military, something I would refuse. Both affiliations being so friendly has put me in a difficult position. My only shot was with HWT, more to piss off Ajax, but at least Paulo offered to help, and didn't ask for more service to the cause.
Gaule:
Me: Have you tried negotiating with the Gaule? Maybe force them to let you go.
Vincent Ramius: How? I told you, they won't let me leave, I have asked, even pleaded so many times. They hold all the cards, especially now with both affiliations being forced to be friendly with each other, they probably have used that to get the Consortium to find me and send me back. My only shot was with HWT, more to piss off Ajax, but at least Paulo offered to help, and didn't ask for more service to the cause.
Either choice continues:
- "We should investigate HWT, see if they can be trusted."
- "Have you thought of going to a third party?"
Investigate:
Me: Can we find out anything on HWT or Paulo? See if they can be trusted with honoring your deal.
Vincent Ramius: I was chatting on the Mesh with someone here at Security about him. I recall her name is Carter, she used to be a Captain in the Consortium before she left. She knows of him, and could possibly have some other information that could help.
- "Have you thought of going to a third party?"
Me: Have you thought of approaching a third party? Not related to either Gaule or Consortium.
Vincent Ramius: Like who? Who would want to be involved with this?
Me: There's the Yasutsuna Corp on the Hopkins' Legacy station. Part of the Tanegashima Fleet, they would definitely be interested in that armor.
Vincent Ramius: No, haven't thought of that. But as I said before, I don't want to work for another weapons maker, I'll just be another test subject.
- "We can just "say" you are."
Me: You can just "say" you are, pretend you have other interested parties, it will help if you decide to re-negotiate with Paulo or anyone else.
He thinks about your idea, and you see a hopeful expression for the first time.
Vincent Ramius: That might work, but I won't be able to keep up with that lie, my acting skills are very limited. The Gaule, especially the Ajax reps will see right through me. But I see how it could help.
- Offer to speak directly with Carter.
You offer to help Vincent out, and look into Paulo and HWT. Speaking with Carter at Security might shed some light on what his options are.
Vincent Ramius: That would be very helpful, thank you. Please take this with you, I'm sure whoever you end up giving this to will pay you handsomely. I just want to be rid of it, a curse if I ever saw one.
You see him pack the armor and vial neatly into his gold sports cloak you gave him. Covering it up fully, it looks like just a bundle of fan attire.
As he gets up to move towards the door, you receive a call from Paulo through your CORETECHS. You motion to Vincent to stop.
- Answer the CORETECHS call.
Paulo Reiser: Good job staying hidden <name>. Everyone's got their eyes at the Port currently and the Gaule have just gone back to their Embassy, leaving the coast clear for the moment. You should be ok to get here alone, they are not looking for you. Take the armor and a sample of blood, and bring both to me here at the Government Center.
- "Ok, I'll make my way there soon."
- "What about Vincent?"
Vincent:
Me: What about Vincent? Does he just stay here?
Paulo Reiser: Yes, leave him there for now, too many people looking for him. I'll give him a call when things have died down. Get here as soon as you can, I'll be waiting where we first met.
The calls ends and you look at Vincent.
Me: Paulo said the coast is clear for me to bring him the armor. He said you should stay here for now, which doesn't sound too promising. I'll speak with Carter beforehand, help with any decision we make.
Ok:
Me: Ok, no problem, will get there as soon as I can.
Paulo Reiser: I'll be waiting where we met.
The calls ends and you look at Vincent.
Me: Paulo said the coast is clear for me to bring him the armor, but I don't trust him fully. I should speak with this Carter before anything else.
Either choice continues:
Vincent Ramius: Go ahead, I'll wait here. I have a few rations, I should be good for a while at least. Knew I was going to hide out for some time.
He heads towards the exit and starts removing the crates blocking your path. He then grabs the slab and dislodges it from the doorframe and you notice it seemed more difficult than before. Maybe the benefits of the armor, or he's just exhausted. You hand him your golden cloak.
Me: You might need this more than I do.
- Leave the Ruins
You say your goodbyes to Vincent, letting him know that you'll be in touch with any information you manage to discover. He waves you off, and once you leave the hide-out, he promptly moves the slab back into the doorway. Looking at it from the outside, you can barely tell there's an entrance there.
You make your way up the dark passageway and through the edges of the Ruins, trying to stay as hidden as possible. You never know who might be around here. Besides the occasional echo coming from the abandoned buildings, no other sound is heard. Carrying the surprisingly light armor inside the make-shift bag, you go through the debris of the Ruins. You finally get to the part of the fence you crossed earlier, and step through the enlarged opening back to the station.
Head to Security
Next NPC: Marge Carter, Security, Ross 154 Jump Gate
- Ask Marge Carter for information on HWT.
Inside the Security Office, you see groups of bodyguards laughing loudly and clapping each others’ backs as they share stories of time spent in the Old Jump Gate’s ruins. You see the name Marge Carter through your CORETECHS hovering over one of the bodyguards and you get closer, catching a part of the conversation she's having with the other guards.
Marge Carter: And then I had to take the remaining two bandits down without my blasters! It was a crazy time back then, those old ruins were just a mess, good times. Yeah I found a piece a scrap metal and used it as a shield. Even threw it a few times, that's how I took down those two, got promoted to Captain after that day.
You see her stop talking as she notices your approach.
Marge Carter: What can I help you with? You looking for a bodyguard?
Me: Just some information if you have a minute. Can we speak in private?
Marge Carter: We can speak wherever you want, still gonna cost you.
You walk off to the side, away from the other bodyguards, with her following you.
Marge Carter: So what do you need to know?
- "I've made a deal with Paulo Reiser, been told you might know of him."
- "A friend has made a deal with HWT, checking if they are trustworthy."
Paulo:
Me: I've made a deal with Paulo Reiser, but I don't think he's the honest type, do you know anything about him?
Marge Carter: He's scum, I can tell you that for free. Like the rest of those HWT crowd, only care about themselves, especially Paulo. Considering he's basically a thief, you definitely shouldn't trust him.
Me: Thief?
Marge Carter: Yeah, he works for "Department of Acquisitions", just a cover for HWT's tech stealing division. Bet you he got you to sign a contract too?
You let her know you did, worried what will happen if you don't complete the terms.
HWT:
Me: A friend has made a deal with HWT, helping them out by checking if they're trustworthy. Haven't heard good things so far.
Marge Carter: They're not the best crowd, some worse than others. Really depends on who they've talked to, there's a guy called Paulo, he's scum, I can tell you that for free. Considering he's basically a thief, you definitely shouldn't trust him.
Me: Thief?
Marge Carter: Yeah, he works for "Department of Acquisitions", just a cover for HWT's tech stealing division. Is that the guy? Did he get your friend to sign a contract?
You let her know they did, worried what will happen if they don't complete the terms.
Either choice continues:
Marge Carter: That contract means diddly swat. I thought it did, but finally got the balls to go to the Consortium and report it cycles ago. Got told that its not valid, just some HWT internal doc. The law won't go looking for you if that's what worries you. I know a guy in the Consortium if you want to report it, he's a "fixer", one them higher ups, he can help. His name is Tom Wiggum, you can probably find him at the Lounge.
You thank her for the information and offer to pay her for it.
Marge Carter: You keep your credits, this was free of charge. Paulo and HWT are a menace, don't need their influence around here.
- Call Vincent Ramius on your CORETECHS.
You head out the Security Office, waving bye to Marge Carter. Just outside you move to a quieter part and call Vincent to update him.
Vincent Ramius: Hello? Did you speak with Carter?
Me: Yeah I did, she didn't have anything good to say about Paulo.
You explain what was said, how she told you not to trust Paulo or the HWT. You also mention the new Consortium contact she gave, maybe one that can help sort this out for him. You point out the remaining choices are up to him. You offer to help with negotiations with either the Gaule or Consortium, or just go back to Paulo and pressure him to help him.
Vincent Ramius: I just don't know. These kinds of diplomatic issues are not what I've been trained for.
You get the sense he is confused and unsure on how to proceed. You give him some time to think about, making sure you're a safe distance away from any prying eyes.
Vincent Ramius: You have been so helpful, thank you <name> for everything. I hate to ask for anything else, but can you decide for me? I think you're better at these type of resolutions. Us Malls aren't know to be the brightest tools, I wouldn't know how to proceed. You came up with the Tanegashima Fleet idea, maybe use that to negotiate. Would that work?
You think about it, maybe best that you handle this for Vincent, him being there might complicate matters. You end the call by telling him that you will see this through to the end and let him know the outcome. Hopefully in some way positive.
- Make a deal with the Consortium.
- Negotiate with the Gaule.
- Go back to Paolo.
Consortium:
You decide that contacting the Consortium is the best chance you have. Speaking with Tom Wiggum at the Lounge might prove to be the best way to get Vincent to The Ghost of Mali station.
Go to the Lounge
Next area: Lounge, Ross 154 Jump Gate
- Speak with Tom Wiggum
You walk into the lounge and notice it's comfortable environment. Dimmed lights, soft music and plenty of people enjoying themselves over a drink. You see several quiet areas, with small booths giving the patrons a small sense of privacy within such an open space.
Sitting quietly alone in one of those booths, you see a man in Consortium garb, sipping at his drink, his darting eyes scanning the room, looking at any and all incomers. You catch his attention and walk closer. You ask to join him, and he motions with his arm for you to take a seat.
Tom Wiggum: What can I do you for?
- "Marge sent me, she said you could help with a problem I have."
- "I have some information that you might be interested in."
Marge:
Me: Marge Carter sent me, she told me that you've helped her out before. I have a problem.
Tom Wiggum: Yeah, Marge is a one of the good ones, if she sent you to me, must be important.
You explain how you were approached by a man posing as a Consortium official, who asked you to do something for him. You reveal the contract as well.
Tom Wiggum: Let me guess? HWT or specifically Paulo Reiser? Only he would have the guts to impersonate the Consortium for his dodgy deals. I'll need to put a stop to him once and for all. Damn corporations think they're running things.
Me: Yeah, that's the guy.
You continue to state that he asked for the "acquisition" of a certain piece of armor, one that you have not yet returned to him.
Tom Wiggum: You have it? Do you know where that athlete is as well? We're being harassed by the Gaule, blaming us for this theft, got us running around looking for their own people and equipment. Madness, all because we're "on the same side", at least in this system. Would love to end all this. What do you need?
His eyes have fully opened, looking directly at you. Obviously he is interested in what you have to say. You go on and explain your proposal, how you can give him the armor in return for safe passage for the Gaule athlete to The Ghost of Mali.
Tom Wiggum: Why would we do that and risk the ire of the Gaule?
- Convince Tom to accept your terms.
- Appeal to Tom to allow for athlete's safe travel.
Appeal:
(Social check)
Failure:
Your attempts to appeal to him are failing, with your points being ignored. Keep trying.
Convince:
(Intelligence check)
Success:
You mention that the Consortium and Gaule are not the only ones interested in the athlete and his armor. You continue by saying that discussion with other parties has progressed and they are more than willing to accommodate favorable terms. You explain that this won't help relations between the affiliations if someone else got their hands on the armor.
Tom Wiggum: Who is getting involved with this? Is it LeGuin?
Me: Not LeGuin, but The Tanegashima Fleet has made contact. Seems like the Yasutsuna Corp is very interesting in this armor, and have promised the athlete a luxurious retirement. Won't the Gaule think you simply allowed for this to happen?
This seems to have struck a nerve, causing him to instantly draw back, with a worried look upon his face. The idea of a third party has got him frazzled.
Tom Wiggum: We can't have anyone else getting involved, situation is already tense, no need for yet another Independent problem. I agree to your terms. Once I have the armor, I will arrange for safe passage to The Ghost of Mail station for the athlete. You have my word. I will ask the Consortium to stop the search immediately.
You see him thinking, with a slight smile on his face, the thought of being done with this latest Gaule problem seems to have given him some momentary joy.
- Finalize the deal with Tom Wiggum.
You ask Tom Wiggum for the arrangement of a shuttle to Alpha Centauri as soon as possible, and reassurances that the athlete Vincent will be safe boarding and travelling there.
Tom Wiggum: I gave you my word. Once I have the armor, it will all be arranged as we agreed. Can't wait to see the faces on the Gaule when I give them back their armor.
You have a look at the golden bundle you're still holding, and you give it to Tom.
Tom Wiggum: You had this on you the whole time? Oh you're a ballsy one.
Me: Here, you have the armor, please make the arrangements for Vincent's safe travel.
You see him open up the cloak, and starts to go through the bits and pieces from the armor. You look up at him with a encouraging look and he sends you details through your CORETECHS, where you see passage booked on a shuttle going to Alpha Centauri , with another ship taking Vincent to The Ghost of Mali.
Tom Wiggum: I have also called off the search. The Consortium officers at the port will not bother Vincent, he is free to board his ship in peace. You have our thanks for helping us avoid further scandal with this matter. I will send you a small token of our appreciation as a reward.
You say goodbye to Tom and turn to leave the booth. You should call Vincent with the good news.
- Call Vincent
You call Vincent through your CORETECHS to give him an update and the news about his trip.
Vincent Ramius: What happened? Are they coming for me?
You explain to Vincent what has happened, and how you were able to convince the Consortium that allowing him to go to The Ghost of Mali was in their best interests. You inform him that he is safe, no one is looking for him, and that he can go to the Port and travel freely. Ships have been booked in his name.
Vincent Ramius: I can finally make it there! Thank you, don't know what I would have done without your help. You have my utmost thanks. Please look me up if you're ever on The Ghost of Mali.
You end the call and see that a sum of credits has been transferred to you by Tom Wiggum.
You have received 300.00 credits.
You have completed the "A Farewell to Armors" mission.
Notes
- The title of the mission is a play on Ernest Hemingway's 1929 novel A Farewell to Arms.
- Vincent's interplay with the young child is an homage to a classic 1979 television commercial for Coca-Cola called "Hey Kid, Catch!" (watch it here), featuring American football player "Mean" Joe Greene.
- Marge's story about being made captain when she threw her shield to take down some bandits is an homage to a fictional alternate universe in which Margaret "Peggy" Carter, not Steve Rogers, became the Marvel superhero Captain America, most notably in the first episode of the Marvel Studios animated television series What If...?, entitled "What If... Captain Carter Were the First Avenger?"
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