An unknown hacker threatened Orwell Stronghold during the Genotype Awareness Tenspan. What do they have against Benevolent Dynamics? Will you be able to stop them?
Are you interested?
Level: 13
Start: Barium Theory – Caracal Cyborg (He/him), Inn, The House of Congo
Introduction
The inn is quieter than usual. The few people coming and going have the tired, disheveled looks of people just trying to get through the day - a rare sight in House of Congo. You pass a small huddle of chairs, all empty except for one, whose occupant waves you over.
If you met Barium during All Our Activisms:
- "Hello Barium."
Me: Hello Barium.
Barium says: Nice to see you again <name>! Anyone who helps Solace and Calyx with their visa troubles is a friend in my book… Well, a good acquaintance, at the very least. And good acquaintances help each other get work, right?
He chuckles at his own non sequitur, then beckons you closer.
Barium says: Listen, I've been given a job that may be too much for one person, and I could use a hand.
- "What kind of job?"
Me: What kind of job?
If you didn't meet him:
- "What is it?"
Me What is it?
Barium says I'm Barium, a friend of Barbecue's - you know, purple-eyes, bright smile, creator of the Genotype Awareness poll? I was actually hoping to offer you some work.
- "What kind of work?"
- "Sorry, I'm not interested right now."
Sorry, I'm not interested right now.
Me Sorry, I'm not interested right now.
Barium says Alright, I can tell you're busy. If your schedule suddenly frees up, come find me again.
He looks back down at the screen on his arm, then starts tapping away.
You have failed the "All Our Hackers" mission. You can retake this mission and try again.
What kind of work?
Me What kind of work?
Both paths continue:
Barium says Hm… let's call it reconnaissance. Remember the hacker who sent a video during Genotype Awareness Tenspan, threatening Benevolent Dynamics? After their threats, there was a power cut in Orwell, although no one is sure whether that was the hacker's doing or just coincidence.
Although he generally keeps his eyes on you, every now and again Barium looks at the small screen on his arm and tweaks the formula for one of his graphs. The action seems almost involuntary.
Barium says Normally we don't mind if someone strikes out on their own, but this person was specifically using Caracal imagery without being one of us. We traced the hacker to Congo, but they're not a pushover - their digital trail has gone cold at the Wrecks, and that's quite a large place to search. I was asked to find the hacker, but, well… I haven't had great experiences in the Wrecks.
As he raises his right arm, his sleeve falls, revealing what is beneath. While the rest of his body is covered with metallic modifications, this forearm is distinctly robotic. Metal in the shape of bones, red and blue cables bundled like arteries and veins, semi-transparent plastic in the place of muscle and skin. The small screen is attached to his arm through one red and one blue cable, as though it were an organ.
If you met Barium before:
Barium says: Since that day, I've focused on programming and printing prostheses - first for myself, then for others who need it - but it's hard to refuse the Caracals when they ask for help. Luckily I saw you, <name>… You've been places, dealt with things worse than these. I'm sure you've got a trick or two up your sleeve, and would appreciate a thousand credits.
If you didn't:
Barium says Since that day, I've focused on programming and printing prostheses - first for myself, then for others who need it - but it's hard to refuse the Caracals when they ask for help. Luckily I remembered how Barbecue was singing your praises, <name>… You've been places, dealt with things worse than these. I'm sure you've got a trick or two up your sleeve, and would appreciate a thousand credits.
Both paths continue:
- "I want to help."
- "I'd rather not get involved."
- "A thousand credits? I'm sold!"
I'd rather not get involved.
Me I'd rather not get involved.
Barium says That's a shame. …If you change your mind, come find me again. I'm not going to solve this anytime soon.
He looks back down at the screen on his arm and starts tapping away.
You have failed the "All Our Hackers" mission. You can retake this mission and try again.
I want to help.
Me I want to help.
Barium's eyes light up at your response - quite literally, as he turns on his CORETECHS.
Barium says Thank you, <name>. I've sent you a set of coordinates within the Wrecks - the hacker is accessing the Mesh through devices of their own, but we have triangulated their access, and it should be somewhere in this vicinity.
A thousand credits? I'm sold!
Me A thousand credits? I'm sold!
Barium's eyes light up at your response - quite literally, as he turns on his CORETECHS.
Barium says Excellent! I've sent you a set of coordinates within the Wrecks - the hacker is accessing the Mesh through devices of their own, but we have triangulated their access, and it should be somewhere in this vicinity.
Either choice continues:
You have accepted the "All Our Hackers" mission.
- "What do I do when I find the hacker?"
What do I do when I find the hacker?
Me What do I do when I find the hacker?
Barium barks out a short laugh.
Barium says When, not if? I like your enthusiasm, <name>. If you find the hacker, by all means, bring them to us. But if it's as I suspect, and they're using a relay, bring me whatever equipment you find. Be careful, though - we don't know what they're capable of. They might have automated systems protecting their equipment, or would prefer to destroy their devices than letting them fall in our hands… But I'm sure you can handle it!
Barium genially pats you on the back. His smile is soothing, and the pleasant smell that surrounds him puts you at ease.
Search for the hacker in the Cat's Bowels - the Wrecks in House of Congo.
Next area: The Wrecks, The House of Congo
- Follow Barium's coordinates.
As you overlay Barium's coordinates over the Cat's Bowels using your CORETECHS, you realize how hard it would be to systematically search the area. These tunnels curve, loop, lead to dead-ends or locked doors. Nothing is sign-posted, and the few people you see out of the corner of your eye are dashing ahead, avoiding contact. Your Mesh signal strength fluctuates, though it never drops completely.
- Search the area.
(Stamina check)
After a few dead ends, paths that lead outside of your search area, and copious amounts of backtracking, you enter the last quadrant you haven't checked. At a first glance, nothing seems out of the ordinary, although the more you explore, the more debris you find. Lumps of regocrete, broken plastic knobs, rusted corrugated metal sheets, even containers dripping unknown liquid onto the floor.
As you pick your way across, a noise from behind you makes you turn. What at first looked like two small metallic cubes have now sprouted tiny wheels and are dashing towards you. While these little bots don't seem frightening at first, they soon extend a folded appendage ending in what looks like a taser (in the gray bot), and a small circular saw (in the black bot).
There are two paths ahead of you - one of them is even more cluttered than the one you're on, the other seems to be easier to navigate.
- Vault through the cluttered tunnel using your strength.
- Sprint through the empty tunnel.
Vault through the cluttered tunnel using your strength
(Strength check)
Failure
While you're much better suited to avoiding obstacles, the small robots seem to be keeping up - the 'legs' upon which their wheels are attached appear to be extendable, so they're more maneuverable than you expected. There is more debris ahead where you might be able to lose them.
- Vault through the cluttered tunnel using your strength.
- Sprint through the empty tunnel.
Success
You leap over discarded electronics, toss lumps of regocrete behind you, even use a metal pipe to vault over a particularly large puddle of unknown origin. Soon the tunnel splits and curves, and you leave the robots behind, finally gaining a few precious units to catch your breath and regain your bearings.
Sprint through the empty tunnel
(Agility check)
You speed ahead, through an intersection and two winding paths. All the turns seem to have lost the robots, and you take a second to catch your breath and regain your bearings.
Either choice continues:
The chase led you through the roughest part of the sector; the rest looks easier to search. You focus on the last area left to check, walking slowly as you recover from your efforts.
- Look for signs of the hacker.
The upside of having searched so much of the Cat's Bowels is that you now have a good idea of when something is out of place. Within a segment you find wreckage that doesn't look haphazard enough - a pair of metal plates clearly hide something from sight, a deliberate structure hidden amongst the clutter.
A quick CORETECHS scan doesn't seem to reveal anything dangerous, so you shift one of the metal plates aside and find a small workbench covered in electronic equipment. It looks functional, with strips of LEDs lighting up in patterns, cables snaking from one device to another and the slow whirr of ventilators. A large monitor sits behind the equipment, currently powered off. Your Mesh signal, which fluctuated before, now appears to be unusually strong.
Your CORETECHS is able to identify some of the equipment - but before you have a chance to analyze your findings, the screen turns on, showing a white caracal on a dark gray background. This is the same imagery the hacker used during their video threat to Orwell, and the same synthesized voice follows.
The voice says Stars alive, more ruin rats? That's just my luck… Just get out. My robots know exactly where you are now, I expect them to attempt to remove your limbs very soon.
Attempt to get information from the hacker in the Wrecks.
- Threaten the hacker's equipment with a show of force.
- Analyze their equipment and logically deduce their plans.
- Praise the hacker's knowledge to try to learn more.
Threaten the hacker's equipment with a show of force.
(Strength check)
You notice a few of the hacker's devices have external wireless antennae, and you snap off one of them off.
The voice says Tch, what are you doing, you scavenging clod? Breaking my things just means you won't be able to sell them. Besides, patching this little setup together is the kind of thing your feeble mind could scarcely do. Sure, this stuff isn't powerful enough to hack into Orwell, but it can attack BeDyne from Sirius, and you wouldn't believe how few people could put together something like this.
Me You're going to attack Benevolent Dynamics from Sirius?
The voice says Orwell and BeDyne are one and the same, so if I can't touch one, may as well go with the other. I got the idea from that Genotype poll, actually…
Analyze their equipment and logically deduce their plans
(Intelligence check)
Using your CORETECHS to analyze the hacker's equipment, you don't think this would be powerful enough to hack any of Benevolent Dynamic's systems. However, since they've managed to boost the Mesh signal, it's possible they are trying to hack something outside of House of Congo, and have it affect Orwell. As you try to discreetly request further scans from your CORETECHS, the synthesized voice interrupts you.
The voice says You think I wouldn't notice, you lowly clod? I'm not going to let you analyze my work here in Sirius.
…Could the hacker possibly attack Orwell from Sirius, or are they just referring to this workbench being in Sirius? Perhaps a direct approach is best.
Me How could you possibly attack Orwell from Sirius?
The voice says Orwell and BeDyne are one and the same, so I may as well attack them from Sirius - it's much easier. I got the idea from that Genotype poll, actually…
Praise the hacker's knowledge to try to learn more
(Social check)
Me It's not often I bump into such a well-organized and well-hidden setup. I'm sorry I interrupted you and your work.
The voice says Oh, you poor scavenging clod. This is just what I can do with limited resources - if I had everything I needed, I would have hacked into Orwell's systems days ago! As it stands, I'll have to attack BeDyne from Sirius, but it should work all the same.
Me You're going to attack Benevolent Dynamics from Sirius?
The voice says Orwell and BeDyne are one and the same, so if I can't touch one, may as well go with the other. I got the idea from that Genotype poll, actually…
All choices continue:
- "That was never Barbecue's intention!"
- "What does the poll have to do with anything?"
That was never Barbecue's intention!
Me That was never Barbecue's intention!
The voice says You know the person who made the poll? …Bam - radical idea here! Why don't you chat with your friend Barbecue? Try to get a couple of sound bites talking about where the poll came from, or what its goal is - anything, really. I'll even pay! For a little rat like you, twelve hundred credits must be a lot, right?
What does the poll have to do with anything?
Me What does the poll have to do with anything?
The voice says If you don't know, I'm not about to tell you.
The voice attempts a laugh - the synthetic sound of it grates on you.
The voice says …Besides, I've been checking up on you while we talk - of course, why else would I be wasting my time with someone like you? Apparently you know the person who started this poll, "Barbecue Auto". What a name. Anyway, I've got a proposition for you - get me a couple of sound bites talking about where the poll came from, or what its goal is. I'll pay you twelve hundred credits - must be a lot for a little rat like you, right?
Either choice continues:
- Play along with the hacker to get more information.
- Side with the hacker and help them out.
- "No, I'm not going to help you."
- "1200 credits isn't enough."
No, I'm not going to help you.
Me No, I'm not going to help you.
OR
"1200 credits isn't enough."
Me 1200 credits isn't enough.
Either choice continues:
The voice says Uuurgh, you lower intellect life-forms are all the same. This conversation is over, and my workstation has finished what it needed to do, so it's time to go boom!
They burst out laughing - a strange sound in a synthetic voice - and you get the feeling Barium was right about self-destructing equipment.
Play along with the hacker to get more information
Me Alright, that sounds easy enough.
OR
Side with the hacker and help them out
Me I'm actually with you on this one. I'll help you out.
Either choice continues:
The voice says Look at that, the lower intellect life-form finally makes a good decision after all! When you're done recording, send it here, should be untraceable.
You receive a CORETECHS notification for a user called 8Fo#6vb&pq.
The voice says You might want to get out of there. I told my bots not to kill you, but I'm still going to self-destruct my equipment in three, two, one…
All choices continue:
- Get out of there!
You get out as fast as you can, and just in time… to avoid a very small explosion. A quick scan shows the equipment itself is damaged beyond repair, but you weren't in any real danger. Everything is quiet after the explosion - it would be best to go back to Barium.
Report to Barium at the Caracal Inn.
Next NPC: Barium Theory – Caracal Cyborg (He/him), Inn, The House of Congo
- "I'm back:"
Me I'm back.
If you said you'd help the hacker:
Barium says: So I see…
Barium is sitting in the same circle of chairs, but this time, Barbecue has joined him.
Barbecue says: <name>, it's good to see you again. When Barium mentioned you were helping him, I was a bit worried… But Barium said he was keeping an eye on you, and you were on your way back.
As Barbecue says this, Barium crosses his arms and stares at you.
Barium says: I'm glad I put a listening device on you. What were you thinking, siding with the hacker?
Barbecue says: Wait, there must be some kind of mistake. <name> wouldn't do that.
If you really sided with the hacker:
- Change your mind - help Barium and Barbecue.
- You still want to help the hacker. Try to get a recording of Barbecue.
Help the hacker:
You're still determined to help the hacker. Barium knows enough that getting your recording is unlikely, but that doesn't mean you can't try. You activate your CORETECHS's recording function.
Me Of course not, Barbecue - I was just trying to get more information from them.
While Barium doesn't look convinced, Barbecue breathes out a sigh of relief, accompanied by a small smile. Barium begrudgingly backs down, and removes the device from your shoulder - he must have placed the device when he patted you on the back.
Barbecue says I'm glad. …That said, I don't understand what the hacker is planning. Can you tell me what's going on?
Barium puts his hand on Barbecue's shoulder. Unlike with you, this seems to be a genuine gesture.
Barium says I'm not sure the other Caracals would want you to know, but it's about you, so it's only right.
- "The hacker's actions have something to do with the poll."
Me The hacker's actions have something to do with the poll. They said they were inspired by it. Do you know what they might mean? What about the poll would inspire them?
Barbecue says I don't know. None of the plans involved Benevolent Dynamics… Even if they're thinking of Aether's "blow things up" option, there was nothing there of substance to spark a plan. If they want to attack Benevolent Dynamics, then-
Barium says Stop talking, BQ!
Barbecue stops as though they were struck. Barium stands up, positioning himself between you and Barbecue, and you can see the CORETECHS glow in his eyes. You feel strange, all of a sudden - like there's a high-pitch whistling in your ear. After a few units, it dies down.
Barbecue says Baz, what's going on? <name>? I don't understand…
Barium says You're being sold out to the hacker. <name> is steering you to talk about the poll, just like the hacker wanted - and recording the conversation for them. I've tried to corrupt the sound file, but CORETECHS are notoriously hard to hack, so I can't delete what's already been recorded.
The way Barbecue looks at you, whatever trust you had is gone. Checking the recording in Barium's presence would be a mistake - better to get out and upload it from a safer location.
Go to the Ruins, the Outer Circle, and upload your recording.
Next area: Ruins, The House of Congo
(To be continued)
Change your mind:
Me: I just wanted to hear what they had to say - but I want to help you.
While Barium doesn't look entirely convinced, Barbecue breathes out a sigh of relief, accompanied by a small smile. Barium begrudgingly backs down, and removes the device from your shoulder - he must have placed the device when he patted you on the back.
Barbecue says: I'm glad. …That said, I don't understand what the hacker is planning. Can you tell me what's going on?
If you were just playing along:
- "Of course not - I was just trying to get more information from them."
Me: Of course not - I was just trying to get more information from them.
While Barium doesn't look entirely convinced, Barbecue breathes out a sigh of relief, accompanied by a small smile. Barium begrudgingly backs down, and removes the device from your shoulder - he must have placed the device when he patted you on the back.
Barbecue says: That makes a lot of sense. …So what is the hacker planning? I mean, if you can tell me.
Both paths continue:
Barium puts his hand on Barbecue's shoulder. Unlike with you, this seems to be a genuine gesture.
Barium says: I'm not sure the other Caracals would want you to know, but it's about you, BQ, so you should know.
If you didn't agree to help the hacker:
Barium says And in one piece!
Barium is sitting in the same circle of chairs, but this time, Barbecue has joined him.
Barbecue says It's good to see you again, <name>! When Barium mentioned you were helping him, I was a bit worried… But he said he was keeping an eye on you, and you were on your way back.
As Barbecue says this, Barium looks away from you.
Barium says I'm sorry, I know Barbecue trusts you, but I needed to make sure you didn't sympathize with the hacker.
- "Of course I don't."
Me Of course I don't.
Barbecue says That's right! …I know this is how you keep people safe, Baz, but trust has to be extended before it can be reciprocated, you know?
If you refused the hacker:
Barium says Yeah, yeah, I know. Consider that trust extended as of now. Let me get the device off you…
If you asked the hacker for more credits:
Barium says I'm not sure that would have been true if the hacker offered <name> more credits… But alright, consider my trust extended. Let me get the device off you…
Both paths continue:
Barium pulls something off your shoulder - he must have placed the device when he patted you on the back. After he pockets it, he sits close to Barbecue and puts his hand on their shoulder. Unlike with you, this seems to be a genuine gesture.
Barium says Speaking of trust, I think we should tell you what's happening, BQ. I'm not sure the other Caracals would want you to know, but it might affect you, and knowing can help keep you safe.
Barbecue says What is it?
All paths continue:
- "The hacker's actions have something to do with the poll."
Me The hacker's actions have something to do with the poll. They said they were inspired by it, and they wanted me to get a recording of you talking about your poll.
Barbecue doesn't react at first, and when they do, it's with a look of utter confusion.
Barbecue says I don't understand. None of the plans involved Benevolent Dynamics… Even if they're thinking of Aether's "blow things up" option, there was nothing there of substance to spark a plan. Orwell is nearly impenetrable, digitally.
Barium says Maybe that's why they specified attacking Benevolent Dynamics, not Orwell.
Barbecue says … You're right! What if they're attacking travelling researchers? Or ships coming through Sirius Jump Gate?
Barium says They did mention attacking from Sirius. …Don't worry, BQ, I'm going to stop this, alright?
Barbecue looks down, their purple eyes unfocused - but soon they regain their usual determination.
Barbecue says Thanks Baz. I'm going to do a bit of investigating of my own - if we can figure out why they're attacking, it should make things easier. <name>, come with me to the plaza. I know someone who might be able to help us.
Talk to Barbecue in the Lounge, the Caracal Plaza
Next NPC: Barbecue Auto (They/them), Lounge, The House of Congo
- Sit with Barbecue.
You take a seat next to Barbecue, who is talking to an older man you met before: Alphonse Ndala. The scene rings a bell - it's almost as if you're waiting for the Genotype Awareness speeches to start. Barbecue seems to be thinking the same thing.
Barbecue says It feels like I should offer you another <drink>, shouldn't I? If only we had the time… Alphonse, I need to talk to you about something very serious. Is that alright?
Note: <drink> can be Chameleon, Amoeba, or Jet Set depending on the one you chose during All Our Activisms)
Alphonse nods quietly, his attention fully focused on Barbecue.
Barbecue says Thanks. <name>, Alphonse here used to work for the mayor - back when Congo had a mayor alongside the Caracals. Now they're… the de facto leaders, I suppose. Anyway, someone has been threatening Benevolent Dynamics, and might do something drastic, like blow up their ships. We were wondering if you had any idea who might benefit from doing that.
Alphonse is still quiet, though his eyes now wander around the plaza.
- "Barbecue, any ideas?"
- Wait for Alphonse.
- Fill the silence with guesswork.
Barbecue, any ideas?
Me Barbecue, any ideas?
Barbecue says I'm not sure. Maybe the Consortium or Gaule?
Alphonse says Your guess is as good as mine. I would come at it backwards - what can they achieve with these actions? The most suspicious thing to me is the timing of this declaration. Assuming you're talking about the videoclip threatening Orwell, then it's possible someone is trying to undermine your protests.
Barbecue says That's right… they could be making us look bad, or even blame the protests for whatever they're planning to do!
Alphonse says They might even be blaming all Freebooters, not just those involved in the protest, or the Caracals. So then we ask ourselves, who would benefit from this?
Barbecue says If it were the Consortium or Gaule, perhaps they're worried about how much Benevolent Dynamics is growing. They might have reasons to want to, er… well…
Wait for Alphonse
You wait quietly for Alphonse. He takes his time, rubbing sore joints as he thinks.
Alphonse says To pinpoint a culprit, we would have to come at it backwards - what could someone achieve with these actions? The most suspicious thing to me is the timing of this declaration. Assuming you're talking about the videoclip threatening Orwell, then it's possible someone is trying to undermine your protests.
Barbecue says That's right… they could be making us look bad, or even blame the protests for whatever they're planning to do!
Alphonse says They might even be blaming all Freebooters, not just those involved in the protest, or the Caracals. So then we ask ourselves, who would benefit from this?
Barbecue says Perhaps the Consortium or Gaule? Given how much Benevolent Dynamics is growing, they might have reasons to want to, er…
Guesswork:
Me: Maybe the Consortium or Gaule? Or it could be an independent station…
Alphonse says: Your guess is as good as mine. I would come at it backwards - what can they achieve with these actions? The most suspicious thing to me is the timing of this declaration. Assuming you're talking about the videoclip threatening Orwell, then it's possible someone is trying to undermine your protests.
Barbecue says: That's right… they could be making us look bad, or even blame the protests for whatever they're planning to do!
Alphonse says: They might even be blaming all Freebooters, not just those involved in the protest, or the Caracals. So then we ask ourselves, who would benefit from this?
Barbecue says:As <name> said, it could be the Consortium or Gaule. Given how much Benevolent Dynamics is growing, they might have reasons to want to, er…
Alphonse waits a few units, then smiles.
All choices continue:
Alphonse says Even if they see Benevolent Dynamics as a threat, they would have to be extremely careful not to be found out - many people benefit from their research, and the CORETECHS. Blaming Freebooters is one way to do that, but it still seems risky. The same would be true for other independent powerhouses, like Etheel Hayes.
- "Could it be a personal issue?"
- "So it's not politically motivated?"
Could it be a personal issue?
Me Could it be a personal issue?
So it's not politically motivated?
Me So it's not politically motivated?
Either choice continues:
Alphonse says That is what I was thinking. When it comes to personal loss, revenge, or fury, it can be much harder to figure out what someone would stand to gain. The costs outweigh the benefits, in other people's eyes - but it is a personal decision.
Barbecue says I see. I can't think of anyone who would hate Benevolent Dynamics so strongly… But I was only there for a few cycles. Perhaps it's a former employee with a grudge. It's known to happen - sometimes researchers carry out unethical experiments, get kicked out of Orwell and go to Heinlein Stronghold to continue their work.
Alphonse looks surprised, then shakes his head in resignation.
Alphonse says No matter how far we've come, there are always people like that…
Suddenly, you receive a message from Barium - he says the hacker has posted another video on the Mesh. Barbecue must have received the same - you share a knowing look, then they explain to Alphonse what's happening before turning on their CORETECHS.
Watch the hacker's video from the Caracal Plaza, the Lounge
Next area: Lounge, The House of Congo
- Use your CORETECHS to access the video.
Through your CORETECHS, you navigate towards the hacker's latest video. It's the same white-on-grey caracal logo, the same synthesized voice.
The voice says Freebooters are not a unified whole, we are varied individuals with our own principles. However, many of us are united by our unfair treatment by the powers that be. This is likely why, when asked what we should do to raise awareness of genotype discrimination, people overwhelmingly agreed that we needed clear physical retribution.
The voice pauses for a few units as the caracal background changes to the results of Barbecue's poll. The "blow things up" choice, which Barbecue had included only with various footnotes and caveats, had gone from last place to first.
The voice says If this is how most people in House of Congo feel, then how could I possibly deny them? Don't worry, fellow 'booters. Plans are already in motion. Today we will see change.
After an ominous silence, the video ends.
Nex NPCt: Barbecue Auto (They/them), Lounge, The House of Congo
- Talk to Barbecue about the video.
Barbecue's hands move in front of them as they continue to interact with their CORETECHS.
Barbecue says This isn't right… See here? It says all the votes happened less than a segment ago - that's why it jumped from last to first. It was probably the hacker adding fake votes…
- Ask if the votes can be removed.
- Suggest Barbecue make their own video explaining what happened.
- Try to stop the hacker.
Ask if the votes can be removed.
Me Is there some way to remove the votes? It's clearly very suspicious, getting all the votes at the same time, right before the hacker wanted to point them out.
Barbecue says Barium might know a way, but I'm more worried about whatever the hacker's planning. If they're really going to blow something up, we should focus on stopping that first. As much as I'm worried about the poll, it should wait for now. Let's talk to Barium and see if we can help.
Suggest Barbecue make their own video explaining what happened
Me You should make your own video explaining what happened. It's obviously suspicious that the votes all happened at the same time, right before the hacker wanted to point them out.
Barbecue says I could do that, but I'm worried about whatever the hacker's planning. If they're really going to blow something up, we should focus on stopping that first. As much as I'm worried about the poll, it should wait for now. Let's talk to Barium and see if we can help.
Stop the hacker:
Me: We need to stop the hacker before they blow something up.
Barbecue says: You're right - as much as I don't want to just leave the poll, this is more important. Let's talk to Barium and see if we can help.
All choices continue:
Go back to Barium at the Caracal Inn.
Next: Barium Theory – Caracal Cyborg (He/him), Inn, The House of Congo
- "We saw the video. We want to help."
Me We saw the video. We want to help.
Barium doesn't respond right away - his eyes glow with his CORETECHS, his arm's screen shows long strings of code. He also has two tablets nearby, one of which he's using to communicate with other people. When he sees you looking, he snatches it away and motions for you both to sit.
Barbecue says Can you do anything, Baz?
Barium says I'm checking… If they are trying to attack a ship, we can look at the port defense systems in Sirius, but even that is a lot of potential ground to cover. Did you find anything else that might be useful?
Barbecue says Nothing that's immediately useful. Alphonse doesn't think there are strong enough incentives for any of the big players to go after Benevolent Dynamics like this, so it might be someone doing this for personal reasons.
Barium turns off his CORETECHS and rubs his eyes. As he lets out an exhausted sigh, Barbecue starts to shift uncomfortably in their chair.
Barium says There is something you could do… But it would be dangerous. It's in the Wrecks-
Barbecue says Just tell me.
Barium says If we can disrupt the hacker's setup here in Congo, that buys us time to root them out. We've been trying to do so digitally, but they're better protected than we expected. Using power consumption and Mesh access logs, we have an idea of where they might be, but it's too large an area to shut off, even for one day - people depend on this power. We need someone to search in person, the way <name> did earlier.
- "I can do it."
- "Good luck."
- Stay silent.
Good luck
Me Good luck.
Barbecue says Thanks, <name>. I'm sure I can-
Barium says Not so fast. I'm not sending you out there alone, BQ, and lucky for you, I'm already paying <name> to help. There's no time for you two to go together, but at least if you're in the same area, you can help each other if anything happens. And here, take the tracking device.
Silent:
You stay silent. Barbecue looks at you, then back to Barium.
Barbecue says: Don't worry, I can do it. This is a Congo matter-
Barium says: I'm not sending you out there alone, BQ. Lucky for you, I'm already paying <name> to help. There's no time for you two to go together, but at least if you're in the same area, you can help each other if anything happens. And here, take the tracking device.
Both choices continues:
Barbecue nods and pockets it. You receive two sets of coordinates each - just like last time, the areas you're searching are large.
Barium says With it, you can let us know if anything goes wrong, even if the Mesh signal is low. I would give you one too, <name>, but I don't have a second on me, and I trust you can take care of yourself. …Don't worry about destroying the equipment - when you find it, just share your location with me and we'll do the rest.
I can do it:
Me: I can do it.
Barbecue says: We can do it together! We'll cover more ground between the two of us.
Barium looks straight at Barbecue, then massages his temples.
Barium says: …I don't like it, but you're right. I'll send you the coordinates. When you get there, you don't need to do anything - just share your location with me and we'll do the rest. Oh, and take the tracking device. That way you can let us know if anything goes wrong, even if the Mesh signal is low. I would give you one too, <name>, but I don't have a second on me, and I trust you can take care of yourself.
Barbecue nods and pockets the tiny device. You receive two sets of coordinates each - just like last time, the areas you're searching are large.
All choices continue:
Search the Cat's Bowels, Congo's Wrecks, for signs of the hacker.
Next area: The Wrecks, The House of Congo
- Search the wrecks for the hacker's devices.
(Stamina check)
Failure
You stay within the coordinates Barium sent you, doing your best to systematically try all the tunnels. There are still a few more left to check.
- Keep searching
Success
You spend time going through every corridor that falls within the area Barium sent you. By the end of your search, you haven't found any working equipment, only discarded husks that no scavengers have taken.
- Look up your next target area.
You check your CORETECHS to see where you're supposed to go next - a large area is marked in the Outer Circle. At least it's an open space, unlike these tunnels, so it should be easier to investigate.
Continue your search in the Outer Circle, Congo's Ruins.
Next area: Ruins, The House of Congo
- Search the ruins for the hacker's devices.
(Stamina check)
You've searched everywhere electronic equipment could be hiding. There was a set of metallic structures which could have been modern works of art, but given the children climbing them, might have been a playground. A makeshift tent, made by throwing a large, patchwork cloth over an old drilling rig, revealed a group of young people, 30-or-so cycles old. All of them scampered off when you went in to investigate, leaving empty bottles of synthehol behind. You even found a small patch of dirt - real enough to grow some sort of moss - housing a dozen unnamed tombstones.
You have another look at Barium's indicated area, to make sure you haven't missed any structures, when suddenly your CORETECHS receives an alert.
- Accept incoming call from Barbecue Auto.
You accept the call. Before you can say anything, you can hear Barbecue whispering.
Barbecue says I think I found something - there are cables going down into what looks like a maintenance hatch, and my Mesh signal is stronger than before. My location is 1046, 5900. Is that enough?
Barium's voice chimes in - he must be in the same call as you. He sounds relieved.
Barium says Great work, BQ! We'll take it from here. We've got drones on standby ready to deal with the equipment, and we'll cut off power just to that area, in case they're not running their own generator. Try to take another route out, just in case.
Barbecue says I will, thanks. …Oh, hey, your drones work really fast. I didn't expect them here so soon.
Barium says What? I haven't sent them yet, I'm still plotting their course.
- "The hacker's bots!"
- "What's going on?"
- "Get out of there!"
The hacker's bots!
Me The hacker's bots!
Barbecue says Wait, they're not… Oh, stars, they're chasing me!
Barium says <name>, go after them! BQ's in the Outer Circle as well, just follow their coordinates: 1046, 5900. Hurry up!
What's going on?
Me What's going on?
Barium says They must be the hacker's bots, the ones they sent after you. Run, BQ! <name>, go help them! the coordinates are 1046, 5900, there in the Outer Circle. Hurry up!
Barbecue says Okay, right, I… Oh, stars, they're chasing me!
Get out:
Me: Get out of there!
Barbecue says: Wait, they're not… Oh, stars, they're chasing me!
Barium says: <name>, go after them! BQ's in the Outer Circle as well, just follow their coordinates: 1046, 5900. Hurry up!
All choices continue:
Help Barbecue in the Outer Circle, Congo's Ruins
Next NPC: Barbecue Auto (They/them), Ruins, The House of Congo
- "Barbecue!"
Me Barbecue!
Barbecue's running full-pelt, weaving between what looks like a scrapyard for disused mining carts and equipment. You catch glimpses of the robots following them.
- "Bring the bots here! I'm strong enough to disable them."
- "Go that way - I'll run ahead and lead them away from you!"
Bring the bots here! I'm strong enough to disable them.
(Strength check)
Me Bring the bots here! I'm strong enough to disable them.
Barbecue says Right, I'm coming!
Barbecue runs around an upturned cart, towards and past you. You use your weapon to disable it - it's not quite so hard now that you've gotten another look at it. The second robot rushes at Barbecue from a different angle - you get ready to disable this one, but one blow is not enough. As it staggers towards Barbecue, you throw yourself onto it, weapon-first, and manage to pierce a vital component. You're winded, but the robot stops moving.
Barbecue says Thank you… <name>… Sorry, tired, so much running…
The two of you sit down and catch your breath. Barbecue sends a quick message to Barium, letting him know you're both okay. He's glad, but he insist you both get out of there as soon as you can. Barbecue reluctantly agrees, and offers you a hand up.
- Take Barbecue's hand.
You take Barbecue's hand and get up.
Barbecue says Phew… That's enough running for a tenspan. I think I'll walk back to the inn very slowly… I'll see you there.
Go that way - I'll run ahead and lead them away from you!
(Agility check)
Success
Me Go that way - I'll run ahead and lead them away from you!
Barbecue says Right, I'll do that!
Barbecue runs around an upturned cart, through the busy path you indicated. You sprint between them and the robots at full speed, hoping they would go for the target they've already seen… And it works. Of course, now you have two bots to contend with.
Your mind races, trying to use whatever is at your disposal. As you run past some kind of portable metal container, you turn around, flip it, and cover one of the robots with it, the one with the taser, which won't be able to get out. The other bot, with a circular saw, is getting dangerously close to you. As you feel yourself slowing down from exhaustion, Barbecue beckons you over. They're holding a large hunk of regocrete, and pointing at a spot ahead of you - a gap that may be hard for a robot to traverse.
You run towards Barbecue, jump the gap and watch the bot fall inside. As it waves its saw around, Barbecue drops the chunk of regocrete, and the bot stops moving.
Barbecue says** Haha, that worked! We're a great team, <name>
The two of you sit down and catch your breath. Barbecue sends a quick message to Barium, letting him know you're both okay. He's glad, but he insist you both get out of there as soon as you can. Barbecue reluctantly agrees, and offers you a hand up.
- Take Barbecue's hand.
You take Barbecue's hand and get up.
Barbecue says Phew… That's enough running for a tenspan. I think I'll walk back to the inn very slowly… I'll see you there.
Failure
Me: Go that way - I'll run ahead and lead them away from you!
Barbecue says: Right, I'll do that!
Barbecue runs around an upturned cart, through the busy path you indicated. You sprint between them and the robots at full speed, hoping they would go for the target they've already seen… And it half-works. They robots split up, one of them chasing you, the other going after Barbecue.
Your mind races, trying to use whatever is at your disposal. As you run past some kind of portable metal container, you turn around, flip it, and cover the robot with it. Jut to be sure, you place a large chunk of regocrete on top of the container, to make sure the robot can't escape, then you start looking for Barbecue. You can hear them nearby.
Barbecue says: Okay, okay, I've got this… Aaaah!
You keep running and finally reach Barbecue's side. They seem to have smashed the bot with a lump of regocrete - likely the only thing available - but the bot's circular saw caught Barbecue's leg. You're too late to catch them before they fall, and blood starts seeping through their clothing, onto the floor. The communication channel with Barium appeared to still be open, as you hear him cry out.
Barium says: Are you alright? What happened? BQ?!
- "They're hurt, but we stopped the bots."
Me: They're hurt, but we stopped the bots.
Barium says: Hurt? How hurt?! …No, we have to focus. Stay put - I have your location, I'll send someone to fetch BQ.
Barbecue appears to have fainted, but thankfully it doesn't take long for medical support to arrive. A doctor rushes to Barbecue's side, while another examines you. She introduces herself as Dr. Pangolin the Second, and after making sure you weren't hurt, she tells you to leave them to their work. Barium echoes their sentiment, and asks you to see him back at the inn, once you're feeling up for it. The danger has passed.
All paths continue:
Meet Barium at the Inn.
Next NPC: Barium Theory – Caracal Cyborg (He/him), Inn, The House of Congo
- Talk to Barium.
If Barbecue was hurt:
Barium says: <name>… Barbecue has already been cleared to leave, they should be here any unit now. As for you… Thank you for protecting them. They don't have a clone yet, and while they were hurt, I know it could have been much worse. I'll suggest they get one soon, especially if they're going to get themselves into situations like these.
If not:
Barium says <name>, it's good to see you. Barbecue is on their way, they should be here any unit now. As for you… Thank you for protecting them. The robots were dangerous, and they don't have a clone yet, so I was worried. Maybe I'll suggest they get one soon, especially if they're going to get themselves into situations like these…
Both paths continue:
Barbecue says I think we're both responsible for getting me into this situation. Now, what's the latest?
Barbecue looks exhausted, but happy. Barium hugs them tight, tight enough for Barbecue to laugh, then the two sit back down.
Barium says Thanks to you, we managed to slow down the hacker for long enough to figure out what they were doing - thankfully, because our guess was off. We assumed they would hack into the Jump Gate's defense systems and attack a Benevolent Dynamics ship that way. Instead, they used a virus to force Freebooter ships docked nearby to attack the Benevolent Dynamic ship.
- "They made a virus that could do that?"
- "But you've managed to stop it?"
They made a virus that could do that?
Me They made a virus that could do that?
Barium says Yes. In fact, the virus had already spread to four ships by the time we noticed. The hacker's not bad… In fact, we haven't been able to track them down yet. They work away from their equipment, and they keep moving - besides, since we've stopped their plan, they'll probably try to leave Congo. However… No, I'm ruining the surprise. Would you mind going to the plaza? I'll meet you there soon.
But you've managed to stop it?
Me But you've managed to stop it?
Barium says Yes. The virus had already spread to four ships by the time we noticed, but the Caracals all worked together to stop the virus. This hacker's not bad… In fact, we haven't been able to track them down yet. They work away from their equipment, and they keep moving - besides, since we've stopped their plan, they'll probably try to leave Congo. However… No, I'm ruining the surprise. Would you mind going to the plaza? I'll meet you there soon.
Either choice continues:
Barbecue says …Okay, you mysterious man, we'll see you there.
Go to Caracal Plaza, the Lounge.
Next NPC: Barbecue Auto (They/them), Lounge, The House of Congo
- Wait for the 'surprise' with Barbecue.
You sit down at what has become your usual table. Before long, Barium joins you, and asks you to check out the Mesh.
Barbecue says What exactly are we looking for?
Barium says Oh, you'll see…
Next area: Lounge, The House of Congo
- Check your CORETECHS.
Nothing stands out at first. You don't have any messages, and none of the news sites you look at seem relevant. However, an announcement appears for all residents of Sirius, and a video starts playing. The voice is modified, but in a way that sounds more natural than the hacker's. The background is also different - although it's the same Caracal logo, it's black and on a rainbow-colored background.
The voice says Don't worry, Benevolent Dynamics - we stopped the impostor pretending to be a Caracal. Their plan to hack Freebooter ships to attack yours would have been unfortunate for everyone involved. At first we believed it was the work of the Consortium or Gaule, wanting to pit us against each other, but then the real culprit revealed herself.
The image changes to a blurry photograph of someone whose green hair and Benevolent Dynamics jumpsuit rings a bell.
The voice says She goes by many names, including Solana Stryke, and she used to be an employee of yours… until you kicked her out. She was too quick for us to capture her, but rest assured that if we see her in the Apples of Discord ever again, she will have to answer to the Caracals.
The multicolored background returns, along with the Caracal symbol and Benevolent Dynamics logo.
The voice says Solana tried to use our protest as cover - to threaten the weight of the Caracals, to give Freebooters a bad name, to sour our relationships, or simply because she could. But this isn't what we stand for, and we want you to continue working together with us. Unlike the Consortium and Gaule, independent stations and people can be accepting of our ways.
As the video ends, various news outlets start dissecting the video, speculating as to its truthfulness, so you turn off your CORETECHS.
Barium says What did you think?
- "I'm not sure it was the best idea."
- "I knew it was Solana Stryke!"
- "That was perfect."
- "Was it really Solana Stryke? I met her before."
I'm not sure it was the best idea.
Me I'm not sure it was the best idea.
Alphonse, whom you hadn't noticed earlier, comes over and sits next to Barbecue.
Alphonse says I have to agree. Let's not forget - the Caracal's way is also why this hacker got so close to hurting people. Here in Congo she had easy access to black market electronics, the kind that would raise eyebrows elsewhere. The fact that the Caracals are anonymous also means people can pretend to be them - even if the Caracals deny it's them, not everyone outside Sirius believes them.
Barbecue says Oh. I see. I supposed the video didn't really address that aspect of it.
Barium says Did you really expect the Caracals to do something like that?
Barbecue says Well, no. I hadn't even thought of it until Alphonse pointed it out. …Ah, look, I'm getting messages from people who want to help - not just people from Congo and Sirius, but from other systems too!
Alphonse says I'm happy for you, Barbecue. I know you - you want things to change for the better, and I know you'll do great things. Just don't forget to think critically, even if things seem to be going well.
I knew it was Solana Stryke!
Me I knew it was Solana Stryke!
Barium says Did you? This Solana, or someone else using that name? It's the kind of moniker other hackers have been known to use as well.
Me This one. She looked like the photo in the video.
Barbecue says Huh… I didn't think you would know a hacker like that, <name>! …Although I know Baz, so that's not so different, in a way. …Hey, look, I'm getting messages from people who want to help - not just people from Congo and Sirius, but from other systems too!
Alphonse, whom you hadn't noticed earlier, comes over and sits next to Barbecue.
Alphonse says I'm happy for you, Barbecue. You've been working hard on your poll, and however things happened, you managed to get through to people.
Barbecue says Thank you! I know it's just one step, but if we can put this behind us, maybe we can make some real change…
Alphonse says That's a good plan. But don't forget - the Caracal's way is also why this hacker got so close to hurting people. Here in Congo she had easy access to black market electronics, the kind that would raise eyebrows elsewhere. The fact that the Caracals are anonymous also means people can pretend to be them - even if the Caracals deny it's them, not everyone outside Sirius believes them.
Barium says So what, you miss the days of having a mayor in Congo?
Alphonse says That's not it. Just don't forget to think critically, even if things seem to be much better now than before.
Barbecue says Yes, you're right. I'll make sure that whatever we end up doing, we don't get complacent. …And speaking of getting complacent, don't you owe <name> some payment, Baz?
Perfect:
Me: That was perfect. You came across well, and made it clear who was behind everything.
Barbecue says: I think so too! It was pretty sympathetic. …Ah, and I'm getting messages from people who want to help - not just people from Congo and Sirius, but from other systems too!
Alphonse, whom you hadn't noticed earlier, comes over and sits next to Barbecue.
Alphonse says: I'm happy for you, Barbecue. You've been working hard on your poll, and however things happened, you managed to get through to people.
Barbecue says: Thank you! I know it's just one step, but if we can put this behind us, maybe we can make some real change…
Alphonse says: That's a good plan. But don't forget - the Caracal's way is also why this hacker got so close to hurting people. Here in Congo she had easy access to black market electronics, the kind that would raise eyebrows elsewhere. The fact that the Caracals are anonymous also means people can pretend to be them - even if the Caracals deny it's them, not everyone outside Sirius believes them.
Barium says: So what, you miss the days of having a mayor in Congo?
Alphonse says: That's not it. Just don't forget to think critically, even if things seem to be much better now than before.
Really Solana?
Me: Was it really Solana Stryke? I met her before, back in Tau Station.
Barium says: You did? Hm… I wonder if she recognized you, or if it's just a coincidence…
Barbecue says: It's hard to tell now. …Hey, I'm getting messages from people who want to help - not just people from Congo and Sirius, but from other systems too!
Alphonse, whom you hadn't noticed earlier, comes over and sits next to Barbecue.
Alphonse says: I'm happy for you, Barbecue. You've been working hard on your poll, and however things happened, you managed to get through to people.
Barbecue says: Thank you! I know it's just one step, but if we can put this behind us, maybe we can make some real change…
Alphonse says: That's a good plan. But don't forget - the Caracal's way is also why this hacker got so close to hurting people. Here in Congo she had easy access to black market electronics, the kind that would raise eyebrows elsewhere. The fact that the Caracals are anonymous also means people can pretend to be them - even if the Caracals deny it's them, not everyone outside Sirius believes them.
Barium says: So what, you miss the days of having a mayor in Congo?
Alphonse says: That's not it. Just don't forget to think critically, even if things seem to be much better now than before.
All choices continue:
Barbecue says: Yes, you're right. I'll make sure that whatever we end up doing, we don't get complacent. …And speaking of getting complacent, don't you owe <name> some payment, Baz?
- "Yeah, Baz."
Me Yeah, Baz.
Barium says Oh, you have not earned permission to use that nickname yet, <name>! But yes, I do owe you a thousand credits… And a little extra, for helping Barbecue. I'll get that sent to you now.
Barbecue says Don't forget to stop by every now and again! We've got a nice spot here reserved for you!
You have received 1,200.00 credits.
You have completed the "All Our Hackers" mission.
Notes
- Players met Solana Stryke during the mission "Bond Villain"
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