RDU Neil

Episode 6: Blood Price cont'd (Oy... busy busy... but finally got more written... still in the discussion zone, but this was half the game, really.) Jasmine’s revelations McGregor also balks at leaving, thinking about his business and his responsibilities to the Triads. He feels he can’t just walk away from this peace negotiation he has started, though he doesn’t know how long it will take. At that Ryu finally speaks up and let’s them in on the critical information he has. â€Things have changed in the Nine Flowers Gang. The woman you met with, Natsuko… she is the Oyabun’s daughter. She is the one who wants peace, but someone has betrayed her… betrayed me.†He then goes on to explain the events at his apartment, and that the kobun sent after him were not local. “Home office boys,†he says. This indicates to him that the higher ups in Japan have heard about this mess, maybe even specifics about what Natsuko was attempting to do. They came after him as Natsuko's agent. He is trying to understand exactly what Natsuko was trying to tell him over the phone. He knows someone was most likely listening to her side of the conversation. He knows that she was clear that whatever happens, has to happen tonight… soon. McGregor is worried, thinking this means the end to peace. There is some discussion of everyone just walking away from it all. Stang speaks up, siding with McGregor, because he needs McGregor to remain on good terms with the Triads. If he is ever going to get his daughter back, he will need someone like McGregor to work through the Triads in China since they will no longer deal directly with Stang at all. As Ryu contemplates what he should do, Jasmine speaks up. She is hesitant, but realizes it must be done. “I should not speak for my father… it is not my place… but Ryu, it is clear you don’t understand what happened between our family and the Yakuza. I guess that makes sense, as we were only children, and the damn Yakuza would never have told you anything. It is not as simple as paying a debt. At least... well... the debt is bigger than you might think.†Jasmine thinks for a moment, trying to find the right words. “Yes, you went to the Yakuza to save the family, but not just me and father and mother. You were payment for the entire Hitoshi line. Our father… and our grandfather’s before him… have always been master swordsmen. They have trained the sons of Shogun’s and even Emperor’s. We have trained warriors for the Yakuza as well. My father wanted this to stop. As you said, there was no honor among them. His skills were being put to use by murderers and thugs… used to butcher. He wanted no more of that, but there was really no choice.†She finally looks at Ryu directly. “No choice until you. You showed promise… even as a child. You were a prodigy. The Yakuza made the offer. You, in place of father. You would become theirs… brought up by them and their ways… trained as a genin… to become their next master assassin… and to create more. But father, the Hitoshi family, would be released from their service.†Jasmine looks away. “It killed mother. It might as well have killed father. I don’t even know if it was worth it. But know this. Leaving the Nine Flowers Gang doesn’t mean just a death sentence for father and me. It is for every Hitoshi. Every uncle and cousin: niece and nephew. If the Yakuza feel the bargain is broken…†she shakes her head, at a loss for words to describe the slaughter she envisions. Finally she looks again at Ryu, saying “You can’t leave the Yakuza unless they let you go. Can you earn your release? Would Natsuko do this for you?†Again there is a burst of discussion, questions and ideas being thrown about. During this, Ryu is quiet, thinking about what he has just learned, thinking about the current situation, specifically about what Natsuko said on the phone. “Do what you must… Be who you are… you will have my favor.†Perhaps he can earn his freedom through her, but for that to happen, she must be in charge. She must take the position of Oyabun. “To do that, she must have a display of power," says Ryu. "She must show power and strength and worthiness… especially since she is a woman. It must be dramatic and unquestioned.†He turns to McGregor. “Natsuko wants peace, and it will have to happen as part of her success. Your efforts are even more important now.†Owens suggests that they just have to keep up the peace talks… or somehow embarrass this new Oyabun usurper. “That will not be enough,†Ryu says to Terry’s questions. “She must still assert her authority within the Nine Flowers Gang. I think she even asked me to do this for her. She did not tell them who I was. That much is obvious. The four they sent after me were not prepared for what I am. They may still not know. That is our advantage, but it has to be done quickly… tonight.†The fact that the time is so short puts shrift to some of the more elaborate plans being discussed, and the talk turns to figuring out what to do to help Natsuko immediately. Berkmann says, “We still don’t know what is happening inside the Yakuza, correct? We don’t even know names, or what these new players are up to. Before we do anything, let me call my man inside. Jo-Jo owes me.†(OOC: This play by Bill/Berkmann will turn out to be a major turning point. It is a perfect use of a player using an NPC generated within the game to further the story in a logical way.) While Berkmann makes the call to Jo-Jo, McGregor plans to speak to the Triads. He hasn’t heard back from them yet, and is concerned that they may act against the Yakuza. He wants to assure them that action is being taken, and just ask them to wait and let the evening play out. He knows the Triad wants recompense for the initial attack, and hopes that what the group plans to do will provide that payment. While planning a quick trip to Chinatown, he asks Jasmine, “What does your father make of all this? I thought you were going to call him?†At this Jasmine gets quiet and looks strangely at Ryu. There is an uncomfortable silence in the room. “Yes, father knows,†she says finally. “Nothing is ever simple, though. There is something more than just the Nine Flower Gang problem.†During this she keeps looking back and forth between Ryu and Damien. “Oh god…†she mutters, putting her head in her hands, then looking back up. “Even if we somehow manage to free Ryu… it won’t be easy for my father,†she says. “It is a matter of family honor. Very personal… you see,†and she actually reaches out and touches Ryu’s face. “When Ryu was given away, my father swore never to practice his arts, or teach them again. He trained me, but never with the intent of my using those skills.†Then she looks at McGregor. “He kept that vow, until he saw you…this brash gaijin continually offending tradition, bulling his way around, looking for a teacher. A most amazing fighter.†She looks at the other in the room and says, “I have trained twice as long as Damien, but I can’t touch him. He’s better than anyone should be.†“Whoa,†says Terry, understanding how significant that is, and nods. Jasmine smiles, sadly, saying, “Father broke his vow for you, Damien. He thought he found someone worthy… maybe even noble…†and then she says this last very quietly, seeing both Ryu and McGregor together… “He found someone to replace his son.†And the scene slowly fades with Ryu and McGregor staring at each other… unknown emotions playing beneath their warrior’s façade.

That would explain it! Especially because I've never used Foxbat in my long running campaign. He has reason to resent me! Does this mean I have a nemesis?

DUH! Sorry... me am stupid! Should have noticed the difference. I appreciate the explanation. (I've not changed my sig line because I wanted to see what each level turned out to be.)

Episode 6: Blood Price (A lot of complex issues were discussed, so I'm trying to break it down and streamline it into pieces that make sense. Not a lot of action, but this discussion was a critical "character bonding" period... and likely set the foundation for the next story arc.) Berkmann’s Rant The discussion among the group is scattered at first, but then Berkmann steps up, speaking as if lecturing in front of college classroom. He even had a short PowerPoint presentation prepared! Though the others find him a bit wacky, he commands a room as he begins his speech. He had been making comment before hand about the group needing to leave the city, “… head for the Philippines!†but he’d not really explained why he thought this. As he paces and pontificates, Berkmann explains that the data he had downloaded was clear evidence that the agents from the other night were of the Federal type. He had managed to snag digital footage of an birds eye view of the shoot-out in front of Stang’s a few night’s prior. Footage snagged seconds after it was caught… roughly 40 seconds of an arc of footage that would cover the passage of a high altitude spy satellite over the area. “Only the government has these resources,†he says. “So it begs the question, since they clearly have visual record of one of their agents being machine gunned to death, why there wasn’t an army of FBI, police and SWAT members swarming this mansion within hours of that event. It is now days later, and still nothing! Why?†While he talks, no one notices that Terry is silent about the man he killed, and that an actual tear creases his face as his death is shown on screen. At the same time, Stang says, “Well, there was on FBI agent that showed up, with the police. He didn’t ask many questions, but listened to the cops and me talk. His name was… Skelter. Yes. Unusual name. Agent Skelter.†At this, Berkmann goes pale. “Agent Skelter? Don’t ever talk to that man!†Berkmann goes on to say that this man pursued him in the ‘70s and ‘80s. “He supposedly retired a decade ago,†continues a worried Berkmann. Some quick backdoor downloads by Jones shows that Skelter’s file has been recently reactivated… but at the same time, his past information is all but wiped clean. His file is a small as a new recruit… at least in the area that Jones can access. Armed with this new information, Berkmann returns to his presentation, describing all of the different data he found in just the 16% he had decrypted so far. It was a jumble of things like medical records, logs of unexplained deaths, and the like. Berkmann pieces it together, and makes a strong argument that this data is from a government operation that is likely hunting Specials. All of the data seems to pertain to statistically rare events, unexplained phenomena, urban legends, folk tales, etc. Berkmann is the master of seeing the pattern in chaos, and the only paradigm that explains the relevance of such a collection of data is that of “Specials.†“This, combined with the fact that no on has actively come after us in the last few days, implies one thing. Whatever agency ran those agents, and was using that satellite, they are so far down inside the black box, the legitimate agencies like the FBI don’t even know about them. Calling in a Bureau strike team would probably draw too much attention… so they have to do things differently. It doesn’t mean they won’t come after us, but more that they have to gather other resources to do so. We should use this grace period to get out of here… somewhere safe.†This engenders a great deal of discussion, as Berkmann wants to get out of the country, and suggests the Philippines because he has hidden out there before, has contacts there, and finds it a place where the American Government has a hard time running covert ops without being spotted. Owens is ok with this idea, but no one has quite the paranoid fear of imminent black helicopters that Berkmann does, and they aren’t sure they really need to run. To be cont'd

Help? I'm confused. When I hit 250 posts... I vaulted up to "Very Powerful Hero" and now, when I just hit 300 posts, I regressed to "Low Powered Hero" Wassup with that? I feel all diminished now.

Quick notes... The RDU stands for Red Dragon Universe. It is actually my long running Champions campaign that I started back in 1987... college days. The Red Dragons were the TKD club my friends and I belonged to. This new Secret Worlds campaign is NOT part of the RDU... but I've had that handle for years now. As for the combat descrptions, 99% of them are straight out of the game. One of the reasons I love Hero is that the combat maneuvers, hit location, etc., provide the basis for very cool/flavorful/detailed description. Most of what I write here was described the same way in the game. The car door thing is my marriage of "poetic license" with "game mechanics." If you read back in this thread, I talk about my "Luck Chit" rules. In this case, Joe (Damien's player) realized that though he had taken the Avenger's arm off, the guy wasn't CON stunned and his kick would still land. He spent a Blue chit describing a desperate scene of throwing open the car door to block the kick (see past post for what different Chits allow a PC to do). That was cool, but as GM, I used a Blue Chit for the Avenger to counter this somewhat, I let the kick land as it would have, but ruled that it still tangled up the Avenger and stopped him from immediately following up and pouding Damien into the sidewalk. I actually think of this as "dramatic license" with a game mechanic control (limited chits) that keeps it from getting out of hand. Players get more leeway to pull the occasional stunt that breaks the official "rules" but fits the scene. Wait for the end of this last adventure (when I finally get around to finishing the write up.) There is a really friggin' cool use of a Blue Chit for a dramatic attack by Ryu. You'll see. Anyway... does that make any sense? The door scene played out in the game just like I described it... but it worked because of a house rule I've used for years that makes the Hero System Luck rule more useful... at least IMO. Thanks for the nice comments, by the way. (Oh... and while players get Chits, so does the GM, and it helps for me to balance when I twist the game with GM license, and when I let the dice fall where they may. I think the players feel more comfortable when I spend a Chit to help a villain... cause they know I can run out of them. Villains without a blue chit or two are the ones who get caught or killed and don't have that miraculous escape! )

Episode 6: Blood Price Secret Worlds: Episode 6 – Blood Price This week brought all five players back to the table. Hitoshi Ryu – Eric Damien McGregor – Joe Mr. Jones – James Terry Owens – Storn And the long awaited return of… Dr. Martin Berkmann – Bill the Ferrett Epilogue to Episode 5: As Ryu was leaving the building after setting his trap, he passed his apartment, noticing his cell phone sitting on the table, chiming softly. Ignoring it, he continues outside. Cut scene: The inside of the Oyabun’s office as the Westcorp building. A phone is set down in the cradle and the camera pans back to show the pensive face of Natsuko, she turns, eyes down and says, “He does not answer his phone.†Camera pans back further revealing two others in the room. One is Ichiro-san, sitting on a couch, looking angry and puzzle at both his daughter and the other. The third is a large man, Japanese, but well over six foot, broad shouldered and strong, in a severe suit. He turns toward Natsuko, glaring, and flipping shut a cell phone on which he was calling. “My men do not answer either,†he growls. “Whoever this assistant of yours is, he had better return to you… for your sake, and the sake of your father!†“Of course, Samsano-san,†demurs Natsuko, and she turns away still keeping her eyes down. Yet when she is not facing the man, a smile curls her lips slightly as she hears that Samsano’s men are also not answering the call from their master. Within 30 minutes of his escape, Ryu has changed his clothes to that of a Japanese tourist, and is at a payphone. He makes his first call to Natsuko’s direct line. After she says hello, he does not identify himself but says, "I have never done anything to dishonor the family. I have only ever acted as the instrument of the family. And now I am dead.†"Their lives for my life. Payment is done.†"Giri is accepted.†"We part, and all is well. We do not part, and I will bring down all the demons of Gakido to wreck bloody vengeance upon those who come for me and their masters. "Remember what I am, and how I was trained; do not force me to be the instrument against the family." Ryu pauses just to see if she will answer, and before he hangs up, she does respond. “Yes, yes… of course. Exactly…†her tone is casual, clearly speaking for others to hear her as well. Then her voice drops to almost a whisper. “We have all entered Gakido. Giri is accepted. Do what you must to the masters. Be who you are. Payment is not yet done. Beyond giri, you will have my favor…†Then more loudly again, “Of course. Yes… we must see you. Tonight. Yes, it must be tonight. You must come. We will await you.†Ryu can sense the others near her, listening in. Then she hangs up. After that, he rests his head against the phone, and trembles, the first time in years that he has been truly afraid. From another phone, in another part of town, he calls Jasmine. "Yuki, I'm coming home." ------------ Prologue for Episode 6: Over the rest of the afternoon, all the disparate players begin to gather. Ryu is told by Jasmine to return to Stang’s. She has also spoken to McGregor who is driving along with a severed arm and $275,000 in cash in his car. She tells him she will meet him at Stang’s as well. Terry and Jolly have finished their work-out, grabbed lunch and headed back to the mansion themselves. Arriving their, they are greeted by Maggie who informs tells them to watch the news. Local events have flared up again including a possible terrorist explosion in Little Tokyo and an assault on a restaurant downtown that involved a man with a sword and another in armor. At this point, Berkmann arrives, have popped up out of his isolation with some information from his decryption project. He and Owens chat, joking that this is the second time the two of them have come around to find all hell breaking loose on the streets. “I don’t envy the cops dealing with this crime wave,†says Terry. “Do you think we are going to have to play clean up again,†jokes Berkmann, but neither find it funny, as it seems all too likely. Jasmine and McGregor arrive, and Damien takes a lot of grief for having wrecked another restaurant in a fight in broad daylight. Soon after, Ryu arrives, bypassing the alarm system with ease by showing up at the kitchen door. When asked about the explosion, he simply says, “I used to live there. That person is dead now.†During this time, Mr. Jones had been finishing his hack, creating the great Berkmann Virus of 2004. As he sits, staring at the message from Briar Rose, he decides to hack back to one of their own nodes, with the message, “Why are you looking for Berkmann?†He waits again… then the website shifts and a different graphic appears. Letters made to look like cut outs from a ransom note spelling out… “No, no, no. One question at a time. The question is, why are you protecting him?†Jones just stares at this, grinning. “Cool,†he says… then logs off before they can find his actual computer… and heads off to meet up with the rest of the group. As evening falls, we again find everyone gathered in Stang’s kitchen, each with unique information to share. Events are spiraling rapidly out of control, and something needs to be done, and quickly. End Prologue (More later... and thanks for putting up the pictures, Storn. They are Suh-WHEEET!)

Old debate... When the original Dark Champions came around, we had some of these same discussions. With the word "Champions" in the title... I still thought supers, but with a focus on crime fighting, not world saving. What I found was that it could be that, but it was also a replacement for the beloved Danger International... the Spies, Mercs, PI, modern adventurer genre. To me, they are different. I love DI level stuff... but those are "normal" people, and deal with "realistic" plots... no supers, magic, etc. Dark Champions to me, was still supers and the paranormal... just dark and gritty. To Monolith's point, it was the supplement to support a more Iron Age approach to comics. Unfortunately, Dark Champions seemed to be perceived as "Kiler Vigilante: The Role Playing Game" more than anything. This bugged me. I thought a Daredevil or Batman type (Detective Comics, not JLA) was a perfect Dark Champions character...crime fighters not world beaters, but the bias was toward the "World of Punishers" which I thought ridiculous. The new Dark Champions seems to be trying to do the same thing. It is like it's own Sub-genre, in a way. You can use it for DI, or crime fighers or to add flavor to a full fledged supers campaign... and that is cool for us who don't use published settings... but I think it is a real mistake to publish a setting like Hudson City as this crime and vigilante ridden place that exists alongside Millennium City. I don't buy the Gotham/Metropolis dichotomy in the comics, either. It's such a false, contrived and forced separation, that it makes no sense. Spoils the verisimilitude of the Champions Universe (or the DCU for that matter) for me. If you noted my thread on my current game... Secret Worlds... that to me is an attempt at my "perfect" Dark Champions world. It has "over the top action" and "more than human" characters, but only JUST over the top, and just a LITTLE more than human. It is a cross between the "realism" of Danger International... with the wilder stories and easier to accept high adventure feel of low (very low) level supers without the conventions of costumes and code names and secret IDs, etc. That is what I want from Dark Champions.

Episode 5: Finale Hitoshi Ryu: The pursuing kobun finally bust into the apartment, guns drawn. In the bedroom they see the broken window. Looking out the see no one on the street level. “He’s on the roof,†one says, and they all head back to the stairwell, trying to catch Ryu on the roof. Inside the closet, not five feet away from them all, Ryu shakes his head again in disappointment. “Incompetents…†he mutters, his pistol out in case they check the closet, but there is no need for concern. He silently follows them out, watches them up the stairs, then returns to his apartment for his bag of goodies. Letting them get ahead of him, up the stairs, he takes a small explosive device he had modified from a surplus fragmentation grenade, and then goes up stairs himself. Once the soliders have gone out on the roof, Ryu quickly rigs the device with a wire, pulling the firing pin and going off three seconds later, after the door to the roof is re-opened. It is a rush job, but he has been trained for this kind of thing, and is back down the stairs by a couple of floors before the kobun give up the search and head back down. Two floors down, Ryu waits. He is rewarded with the hollow “K-WHOOMPH†from above and the jarring of the explosion that shakes fine dust from the ceiling. He then begins moving down to the ground floor as the fire alarm goes off. To anyone who might see him, he appears to be just another tenent, surprised and a little frightened, leaving the building with the rest of the crowd. McGregor: Damien and the Avenger launch into a flurry of strikes and blocks. Damien stands over Vinnie, trying to drive the Avenger back, but the vigilante easily takes the blows on his armored forearms, while punching and kicking at McGregor. Backed up against the car, the Avenger presses his attack, throwing an all out turning back side kick that only just misses Damien (no block, bad ‘to hit’ roll) and his foot smashes through the car window, even caving in part of the door. If the blow had landed, McGregor could have lost ribs. Damien tries to use this to his advantage, but the Avenger is fast… faster than him… and instead he finds himself warding off back fists and hammer fists before sweeping the Avenger’s legs out from under him. The Avenger rolls, ending up over Vinnie, and comes up holding the briefcase full of money. “You’ll not profit from ill gotten gains!†he says. “Bastard… that’s my money!†says Damien, and tries to knock the case out of his hand… the attack fails, and Damien is hit by the Avenger thrusting the case into his chest and knocking him back. Seeing his advantage, the Avenger snaps a kick, and begins to move into a follow up thrust kick that could stop a rhino, but it leaves him open. Open enough for Damien to make his move. A moment of perfect Ki-Ken-Tai no ichi… spirit, sword and body all in balance… and strikes at the Avenger’s right arm that is holding the case… the shot perfectly cleaving at the armor groove right below the elbow… the space that allows flexibility… and the razor sharp katana slices through without resistance. The arm is severed perfectly, a spray of blood arcing for 270 degrees as the Avenger continues his torso twist, and unstopped, kicks at McGregor’s mid section. Damien tries to twist away, his fingers finding purchase and swinging the damaged car door open and into the path of the kick, but the Avenger powers right through the remaining window, and takes McGregor in the upper stomach. (Exchange of blue chits.) He feels a rib give, and all the air rushes out of his lungs as the blow takes him off of his feet and slams him two meters back on to the concrete sidewalk. He doesn’t go completely unconscious, but the world grays out, and it seems impossible for him to draw a breath. Damien knows he has dropped his sword and that he is vulnerable, but for the moment, his body just won’t respond. He exists in a haze, but at least he’d seen the Avenger tangled in the car door as he went down. As he lies there, he suddenly hears the “crack crack crack!†of pistol shots… then a heavy crunching sound of further glass breaking. A few seconds later, he finally pulls a breath and jerks up from the sidewalk. Looking around. He catches a glimpse of the Avenger disappearing over the roof of the restaurant, a trail of crimson behind him. Then McGregor sees Vinnie. The mobster had been shoved through the front windshield of the now totaled car, still clutching his 92F… spent 9mm shells on the ground around him. Best of all… as Damien staggers up, he sees the briefcase, hand and forearm still attached, lying on the sidewalk. Wincing, he grins and picks up the case. “Don’t worry Vinnie,†he says… “I’ll protect your money.†Then he grabs his sword and moves off down the street. The last scene is a montage. In one image there is growing crowd outside an apartment building as fire trucks and police arrive. Ryu is briefly seen as merely a face in the crowd. When the camera swings back to his position, he is gone. The second is McGregor, in his rented car, driving away from the battle scene, one hand holding his ribs, and glancing down at the gory dismembered hand still clutching the case on the seat next to him. “Oh yeah… you’ll be easy to spot next time, punk!†grins Damien to himself. Finally, we see Jones, still in the loft, typing away… he scans the screen in front of him and smiling, hits “execute.†Immediately his program dumps out into the Internet and starts to run. It is a sly little program. A devious idea to make Berkmann invisible by making sure he was everywhere. It would take a little while to spread, but pretty soon, millions of web pages, millions of news articles; millions of guest lists… would have the name Berkmann, Dr. Berkmann, Martin Berkmann or some other variation, appearing on them. A flood of false data that puts him in a conference in Sweden and a jet ski competition in Hawaii all at the same time… a virtual haystack of Berkmann-ness in which to hide the one true needle. “Not a bad bit of hacking, if I do say so myself…†smiles Jones, pulling out one of the cigarettes he took from McGregor’s car in celebration, even though he doesn’t really smoke. For the moment, he just sits back and watches, positioning the cigarette in his mouth in a way that he hopes looks cool. Then he sees the flicker. He’d hacked through a website to insert his virus, and it was highly corrupted… but an image begins to form. A sudden image of the stylized black rose with the words Briar Rose. The cigarette dangles from his lips as he watches five words appear beneath the image. A note of fear and pride runs through him as he reads, “Do You Want A Job?†And that’s where we left it.

Episode 5: Showdowns (The following was all played out simultaneously, as the time frames were roughly consistent… and I just staggered/jumped between players as they gave their actions.) Hitoshi Ryu: In his apartment, Ryu is just finishing cleaning up, getting a new change of clothes, and putting together his single set of “work tools.†He doesn’t keep much at his apartment that could be traced… and all that is going into a small bag of weapons and instruments to go with him. Just then, his keen hearing picks up the sounds of people out in the hall approaching his door. He is so attuned to the sounds, that he knows there are at least two of them, most likely male… and that he doesn’t recognize their walk as any of his neighbors. Ryu moves quickly, positioning himself above the door, out of sight. The men stop outside his door, but don’t knock. His knob twitches slightly, as they try it and find it locked. Then Ryu hears the click/scrape of a lock pick at work. He settles in to wait. Mr. Jones: Working away on his decryption program, Jones notes a computer chime indicating a search he had running is completed. Since he wasn’t running a search, this was interesting to him, and he logs on to discover that an old program… one he had devised months ago when they Stang had asked him to start trying to find Dr. Berkmann… had reacted. It was a program he had imbedded into search engines like Yahoo and Google to scan their activities for mentions related to Berkmann, and flag any that had high correlation to known data about the Dr. Jones had long since abandoned this program and forgotten about it. It had found something new, though. The last two days had shown a flurry of activity on the net, in regards to someone ELSE doing a Berkmann search. Someone else doing essentially what Jones had done earlier, and his program had noticed theirs. Intrigued, Jones starts some passive backward hacks, to see if he can trace this new search. McGregor: Making his way back downtown, Damien arrives in time to meet Vinnie. He had secured the cash payoff some days before… expecting this, and now had it with him in a large briefcase. The restaurant was on a busy street, a storefront, and McGregor, with his suit, coat and case, fits in with other business people. As he walks up to the front, a woman and her young son bursting out almost hitting him with the door surprise him. “Run quickly, Sean!†she says, ignoring McGregor. Damien can hear, from inside the restaurant, shouts and screams, and the sound of plates and table ware crashing about. Moving away from the sudden swarm of people boiling out, he moves to take a sideways glance through the front window. In that moment, the plate glass suddenly smashes outward in a shower of razor shards, just missing Damien. As he flinches backward, he sees a body that has been hurled through the window, hit the sidewalk and crumple against a parked car. It is Vinnie. “Oh crap,†mutters Damien as he glances back inside the restaurant, to see the armored form of the Avenger standing amidst the wreckage of the front dining area. Hitoshi Ryu: It takes less than a thirty seconds for the men to pick Ryu’s lock. His door swings open, and two kobun… black formal suits and guns drawn, come into the room. Ryu recognizes neither of them, as they move under him. One goes into the small kitchen, while the other goes to check the bathroom. When they speak, Ryu recognizes them as “home office.†They speak as ones from Tokyo… not soldiers from here in America. Shaking his head at the fact that they were so sloppy, he nevertheless decides to simply avoid everything, dropping down, going out the front door and shutting it behind them, without either actually seeing him. He could have easily made his escape in the following seconds, if there hadn’t been two more soldiers down the hall at the stairwell. These two see him come out into the hall and shut the door. They shout and start to run after him, and Ryu sprints away. There is a window at the opposite end, but it goes out on to a busy street. Instead, Ryu moves to a neighbors apartment across the hall kicks open the door and slides inside. No one is home in the afternoon, and Ryu shuts the door, and drops a book case in front to bar easy entrance by the kobun piling up outside. The layout is the same as his apartment, so he moves to the bedroom window. This building is only two feet away from it’s neighbor on this side, an easy scamper up to the roof for Ryu. He shatters the bedroom window to prepare to climb up. McGregor: Instead of confronting the Avenger, Damien turns his back (since the Avenger doesn’t seem to have noticed him yet) and moves to Vinnie. He crouches over him like, noting his is hurt, but alive, and presses the briefcase into him saying, “Here’s your pay, now I’m going to save you ass, and you are going to owe ME!†Behind him the Avenger approaches saying, “Move away. That criminal scum doesn’t need your attention. He won’t escape jus…†and at that McGregor stands up, whirling about and drawing his sword, leveling it at the neck of the Avenger, saying “Hi there, chump. It looks like it’s payback time!†The Avenger is actually startled by this, hesitating and then crying “YOU!†in the grandest, bad comic book dialogue manner. This gives McGregor the time to size up his foe, the armored suit now standing out in full sunlight where Damien can see the armor layers and joints… knowing he’ll have to strike weak spots if he wants to cut through the Avenger’s defenses. (Successful Find Weakness roll, even with a few points of defense for the A-man.) Mr. Jones: After a bit of work, Jones has traced IP addresses of the foreign Berkmann search to at least four nodes… one in India, one in Austria, one in Colorado, and another in Pretoria, South Africa. Not a sure thing, but enough of his route traces move through these IPs that he knows they are main access sites. Have hacked both the FBI database, and having an in on the Naval Intelligence on-line systems, Jones knows military set-ups… and this is not military or government. This is hacker style. Likely a cooperation between people spread out across the globe. They are good, too… but Jones sits back, thinking about his options, and knowing he needs to help keep Berkmann as untraceable as possible. To that end, Jones wants to prove he is better. (Just one more post to come, as soon as I have time to write it. This is all stream of memory with no edits right now, so I appologize if it makes little sense.)

Episode 5: Interlude (The following came post-FtF session, but fits at this point in last week's game. It was done via e-mail between Storn and me. Just thought I'd share it, as it was one of those character moments. Oh... and thanks for posting those pictures, Storn.) The following takes place the same morning as the other events just described. After Terry called Stang about the bodyguard job, Jolly gets on the line and says, "I'd like to meet up. I understand your issues with the bodyguard position... but if you still want to work with us, great. There's some information you should have... and it's better to talk in person." He sets up a meet at a local gym... big and crowded, and easy to lose yourself in the middle of the meat heads, loud radios and murmur of conversations. "I'll leave you a pass, under the name John March. I'll see you there around 11:00" You find you way there, and change into sweats before hitting the bench with Jolly. It's California, and a lot of the guys are buff, waxed and wearing lycra... but there are enough of the silent, stained shirt wearing types that you don't stand out. You even have a tan, of sorts... as long as you don't take off your shirt to show the pale skin underneath. Jolly doesn't talk right away, just getting down to lifting. He may be in his fifties, but he can still throw the weight around. You find yourself holding back a little, though. The weight you could lift would impress many of these guys around here, and you know that would draw attention to yourself. You are spotting Jolly, when he sits up and wipes the sweat with the tale of his shirt. Lifting his shirt reveals a horrid scar on his back. It is at least eight inches long, and was probably a two inches wide before it healed. It is an ugly mass of pink twisted flesh. It reminds you of a large bladed or goring attack... or even a shrapnel wound, though you'd be shocked if anyone survived shrapnel that big. You also know that it must hurt Jolly every second of every day. He sees your quick glance, and looks you in the eye. "Yeah... it hurts. That's also the reason why we needed to find someone like you." He says all this in a calm, conversational tone, moving around weights and trading places with you on the bench, like you were talking Manchester United. "See... it happened over a year ago. We are pretty sure that this Grandmaster prick decided to send a message. Stang had been stringing him along for a while... feeding him minimal data... that kind of thing. We don't know if he actually suspected something, or it was just time to remind us who was boss... but we got hit... hard... right at home." His eyes go lost for a bit... a forever stare you know you share whenever you think back to that first bombing... the kids... the body parts scattering... the taste of blood in the dust... No matter how hard the man... some things sink their hooks in. "Maggie was rendered unconscious. Didn' hurt her at all. Doc wasn't home. This was before we found Jones... so it was just me and Dorsey." He shakes his head. "Dorsey knew it first. I was inside, fixing lunch... Dorsey suddenly comes in the back, low, quiet his pistol out. "They're here," he says... Didn't matter that I had the security system showing stable and clear. Didn't matter that the sun was out and fucking birds were singing... Dorsey didn't joke about this stuff. "At least two," he said." "We went for Stang... he was upstairs in the study. From the kitchen, that is 30 seconds at a full sprint... but we went in formation, back to back, circling as we went forward. Covering every banister and closet. "Saw something by the back gate... went to look" said Dorsey by way of explanation. "At least one out there, back in the trees... I was hidden, but he moved like he knew I was there... realized he was keeping me from the house... on the way back, saw the lower office window open. Came to get you..." Simple, exact, succinct... that was Dorsey." "It was the last thing he ever said to me," says Jolly. He grunts and thrusts almost 300 lbs up over his chest. Repeats for five reps, and sets the bar back with a clank. "Stang hadn't responded to my silent page... we were at the top of the stairs, right outside the library... not forty feet from the den. I popped the library door, scanned, saw nothing turned to continue..." his voice gets low and even more terse..."The bitch comes right out behind me... like out of the fucking air... only Dorsey's glance warned me, and I twisted away. Dorsey raised his pistol. The guy was faster 'n hell and a dead shot. Never got a chance. She had a blade... a scimitar like... but short and matte black... it went through Dorsey's wrist like it wasn't there. Hand and gun fell with a thump... I only saw her then because she froze for a moment... in brown and black robes... whisper silent... hooded so only her white grin showed... She was enjoying this." "Heh..." chuckles Jolly, grinning hard for a second, remembering something good. "At least Dorsey made her pay for being cocky. He didn't stop. Just shoved his stump in her face, spraying blood in her eyes, then smashing his elbow in her face. I tried to get a drop on her, but they spun away... grappling... blood flying everywhere. They only stopped when they hit the wall... I fired, as she kicked back. I thought she was running, my shots missed wide, going between her and Dorsey... and that's when I saw it. She wasn't running... she was done. Dorsey was against the wall, the blade right through him... right through the heart... nailing him up." Again a long pause from Jolly. "That's all I remember really... that's what got me... just the look of surprise on Dorsey's face as he looked at the blade stuck through him. That second it took to see that, before I tried to fire at her again... that's what did it for me. The other one got behind me. Don't know how... never saw him. I just suddenly couldn't feel anything but ice in my back. Saw the point of another blade, wider and thicker than hers, sticking out of my lower ribs... gone right through, but missed the heart. As I fell, I caught the sight of him. Casual hiking clothes... American style... but head wrapped in a hood as well. I hit the ground then. Remember just thinking how fucking useless I'd been. Then I watched them slip over the banister... the man saying, "A good lesson. Stang will know he is never safe now..." and then they were gone." Jolly is quiet then... letting you finish reps of curls. "I lived 'cause Stang knew some paramedics, Doc Cole came home five minutes later... and I guess I'm just a tough old bastard." He looks you right in the eye then. "I lived, but it was all over for me. I can help, but I'm not what Stang needs. Dorsey was the best... some might have said that about me, but even in my best years I think they would have had me. That's why we started looking in earnest for someone like you, Terry. Someone who is the best... and more. Someone who might be able to wipe that shit eating grin off that bitches face and teach her boyfriend a lesson, if they decide to come back. Whatever else Stang needs you for... I want you to know what's out there. I want you to know why I want you to stay... to work with Stang. You might be the fucking payback. No bullshit... no honor... no hugs and kisses and please and thank you. Stang needs you... and I want you... because eventually someone is going to have to bury those two fucks, hopefully missing a few pieces. Personally, I think you might be the one to do that." Jolly racks his weights then... stretching. His voice returns to casual. "That's all I had to say, really." ________ Terry questions and Jolly's responses... >>She had a blade... a scimitar like... but short and matte black... << Terry raises his eyebrow at that "...like a ghurka? Know what that is?", Terry says very quietly, not wanting to assume that Jolly does or doesn't know. Terry fears the answer. Could the mystery woman Shiva be on the other side? He doesn't want to go up against her... if she is still alive. At you question about the blade, Jolly says, "Ah... no not a kukri or ghurka... something else. Like a stylized, back swept short sword. Nothing I'd really seen before." Then he gets your concern, and smiles. "Actually, I don't think it was a thugee... but it is what lead us to you. I mean a sword? C'mon, this is the modern age. Knives are effective, but not vs. guns... right?" He shakes his head. "We started looking into esoteric weapon use... something only a 'special' might be able to pull off vs. trained men armed with modern fire arms. Your Kali/Shiva woman... we thought she might know about these people. Unfortunately we never got to contact her... found you instead." >>someone is going to have to bury those two fucks, hopefully missing a few pieces. Personally, I think you might be the one to do that."<< Terry shrugs. "I dunno mate, I'm different, better than I was. But I don't know if I'm better than the duo you speak of. Til the day we face off. Then we will know, I guess. Although, if it comes to a showdown, I'd prefer Jonesie just slippin' up to them and offs them quietly w/ no mess... that would be fuckin' brilliant. The little Boy Blue has the makin's of frighteningly good assassin." Jolly nods, but frowns. "Yeah... Jones could be scary as hell... but to be honest, I don't think he's that kind of guy. I mean... as far as I can tell... he stayed pretty honest, not stealing more than food occasionally... not getting mean and bitter. Shows me Jones is a stronger guy than we give him credit for... and making him like us... a stone killer... I'm not sure I'm comfortable with that." Terry does some light reps. "Jolly? You obviously think that Stang is doing some good here. Why does he have your loyalty? Its more than a merc contract to you. Why should I care about Stang, Dr. Cole... this whole lorry o' lunacy?..... I'm not saying that I don' care, or that I cannae care... jes want ta hear your thoughts on the matter." Finally, Jolly talks about Stang. "It's hard to say. For me, it started out as just a job, but I've been working with the man for years now. He's an amazing business man... but he's more than that. The guy is kind of a dreamer... really interested in how his work affects other people... really generous with his money... and he's loyal. He seems to think he has as much responsibility to his employees, as they do to him. It's a mutual thing." Jolly looks at you straight, saying, "Plus the guy has stones. He takes weird, violent, nasty shit that comes his way... and just handles is. He adapts, he moves forward, he plans, and he doesn't back down. This thing with his daughter... that could break most men. His wife left him... and to Stang, this was his reason for being... but he never broke. He never even considered bending over for this Lung... the Grandmaster. He's looking for a way to fight back... do it smart... and do it right." Jolly shrugs, "I guess I'm saying I'm impressed by him. He's my friend... but beyond that, he is a kind of leader who sets a goal, sticks to it... but doesn't force you to march in step. He wants you as a partner... an equal. That kind of crap you read about in management books, but you never see in real life... hell... that is Stang." He ends with, "My loyalty? I guess he's just earned it." (Finale of last week's session is coming... but work is killing me, right now.)

Great pic, Storn. Really captured the folds and feel of the clothing. Too bad the dude is an elf... as I could almost use this picture for my game. Cool.

Episode 5: Alliances and Betrayals Jasmine arrives at Sufficient Grounds and congratulates Jones on the possible date, then sits down with McGregor and Melissa. They are discussing the difficult position of the group, since both of them know that Vinnie is taking all their liquid cash. Melissa is encouraging Damien to just cut their losses in San Francisco and head back to Chicago. Back to the bar McGregor owns that is their home base. “We are all loyal, Damien. Zeus, Patrick, Phillip... we’ve got your back. We’ve got slush funds… and a few months of scraping by to get the cash flow going again… hey that’s no problem!†McGregor knows this is the right thing to do… but he also knows that he has some serious responsibilities here, now… and is caught between them. He even calls his brother, Michael… trying to see if there is a way out. “You gotta play by the rules, Damien,†says his brother. “I’m happy to give you a loan, but you know what that means… it means you work FOR us… not with us. That’s what you wanted out from under in the first place.†McGregor is silent… angry, but he knows his brother is right. “There’s a price for everything, Damien,†finishes Michael, and hangs up. Jasmine interrupts, pulling McGregor away so not even Melissa can hear. “You know that the crew needs to get out of here. You don’t want them caught up in family business. You’ve kept them out of it until now.†McGregor agrees. (and OOC: these discussions should be evidence that McGregor has secrets that are just coming to the surface.) “But I’m not going with you, Damien,†she says. “Things are going on here… I can’t just walk away.†“Neither can I,†replies McGregor. “They’ve got to get out of here… but I need to figure out a way to do it without me going with ‘em. That takes money, and that is exactly what I’m running short on right now.†Then Jasmine says, “What about Stang? He was talking about needing you to help him with whatever operation he is setting up. All this ‘Special’ crap. How much is he willing to pay? He certainly keeps Jones and the others going, and maybe you can make a deal.†McGregor decides to go speak to Stang directly, to pursue this line of interest. If he can make a deal, he might have even more to offer Vinnie when he shows. The group breaks up with Jasmine heading back to Dr. Cole. Melissa heads out of town to meet up with Zeus and the rest, pack up and go home. Either way they can get out of the immediate danger. During the conversation with Stang, Jones is told that Berkmann has been ensconced in a secure location, his head buried in the data he hacked from the FBI. It was heavily encrypted, and Berkmann has been trying to modify some of Jones’ decryption programs, but needs some help. Stang is hoping he can do some work on that, since Berkmann is raving… convinced that the only reason “THEY†haven’t come through the door in sunglasses and black helicopters is because he has found out their darkest secrets… only he can’t read them. Jones sneaks out with McGregor’s keys… making sure he gets the Corvette before Damien changes his mind, agreeing to work on the problem. At Stang’s McGregor comes right out and asks if they can set up some kind of business deal. He does need a significant bit of money, but in exchange he offers to do whatever he can to help find Stang’s daughter. “Maybe I can use some of my influence with the Triads. We seem to be working well together… but I should tell you… they warned me off you. Told me you were trouble. That death followed you.†Stang was fascinated by this, because it explained a lot. He and the Triads had definitely had a working relationship after his years in Hong Kong. It is business as usual over there. But then they’d just ignored him. Not stood in his way, but not worked with him, either. Very un-Triad like. “Clearly the Grandmaster’s influence is strong… but if you could find a way to work with the Triad’s to help find my daughter… that would be worth a great deal to me.†“How’s $500 grand sound?†says McGregor. “Let me get my check book,†says Stang with a smile, and the deal is sealed. Meanwhile, Ryu has returned to the apartment he keeps as Akito Takashi. There he cleans up and changes clothes, preparing to meet again with McGregor and the rest. At the same time, Jones has set-up in a loft adjacent to an SBC office where he can hack their wireless network and hide his IP, getting to work on the decryption rewrite. Finally, McGregor sets out for the restaurant where he agreed to meet Vinnie, finally comfortable that he can send his people back to Chicago to run the fight club business with Stang’s money, without the family interfering. He has the $250K plus 10% in a briefcase, ready to go. Of course… nothing goes easy for these guys… (to be continued)

Congrats Darren.. You've just discovered one of the true joys of Hero/Champions... taking willing newbies and teaching them (and yourself) the game. I'd always loved Champions, because back in '81 we all learned the system together, and then in college I taught my friends how to play. This allowed them to say "I want to do X" and then I could guide them in how I thought it should be built. No arguments... all of us "on the same page." Then, in the early '90s, I started gaming with Storn and others. These guys had already learned Hero/Champions... and already had their own ideas about how the game worked. While there was never an issue of quality role playing, for the first time I was getting challenges and arguments all the time on the system and the interpretation. Obviously we still game together, years later, but it was NOT easy at the beginning. The beauty of Hero is that there is so many ways to do something. That is it's horror, as well. Interpretation is not wrong... but one interpretation can differ greatly from another... expectations can be very different, and the system doesn't really clear this up. It's been 12 years of constant "metagame" discussions to get to the point of being "on the same page" that was natural and easy back in high school and college. Enjoy it while you can. Enjoy their open minded and cooperative mindsets. It will probably last, until they move on to another Champions game, or a new player joins who learned the system else where. Then get ready for the headaches. (I should not that I have had at least two new players who didn't know the system at all, and they integrated well. They had no preconceived notions, and did just what you are describing. "I want to try X or Y" and then just go along with my suggestion of the way that would fit the campaign the best. It is possible for this congeniality... but players and GM both have to be open to new ideas... and that can be tough when differences flare up unexpectedly in the middle of a game.)

Episode 5: Alliances and Betrayals Only had 3 players this week. James/Mr. Jones… Eric/Hitoshi Ryu… and Joe/Damien McGregor. As before, the available players are THE compeling factor on the direction of the game. Since these episodes are really like chapters, rather than individual stories, this in turn has the effect of driving the entire direction fo the campaign. It’s rather humorous that I had ZERO intention of running a campaign about Asian crime families at war. As happens in most of my games, I just let things flow as the PCs do their thing and insert my original plot points where they seem to organically fit… or toss ‘em entirely and come up with new stuff on the fly! It’s probably obvious, but 80% or more of this campaign has been totally “on the fly†so far. WHEEEE! Makes it more interesting for me… that’s for sure. I’m as surprised as the rest of the group by where we end up. Episode 5: Following the tense negotiations between our heroes (and I use that term loosely), the Yakuza and the Triads, the group found itself in the “hurry up and wait†mode. They move their hotel once again… and then crash for the night. Waking up the next morning, they take it as a small victory that there are no news reports about further gang violence. Terry takes the chance to call into Jolly & Stang. He realizes he wants to work for Stang, but a bodyguard position would be to limiting. Jolly suggests the two meet to discuss options, and Owens heads out. The others decide to get some breakfast, especially since Melissa has finally recovered from being drugged and is suffering a massive hangover. They go to a busy coffee shop/restaurant called Sufficient Grounds… and settle in for the morning like normal people, chatting, reading the paper, and checking e-mail. Every clank of a fork on a plate makes Melissa groan… and she complains that Mr. Jones is “typing too loudly†on his laptop… but otherwise it is a good morning. Ryu, on the other hand, is on his own. He has to update Natsuko on the status of the negotiations. He is still unsure about her, as she treats him very differently than any other Yakuza. She is open, and seems to trust him. He certainly doesn’t know what to make of the fact that she has told him about her father… and the fact that she has asked to disobey what will likely be the orders from the “home office.†It is a very confusing situation, made worse because he now knows he wants out of the Yakuza, but isn’t sure whether the current situation is helping or hindering. Ryu makes his report while the others are having waffles, and Natsuko asks many questions. Primarily she is concerned with what the Triad’s will ask for in terms of reparations. Ryu takes a chance, and asks her about her father… trying to get a sense of what is happening with the organization. She says that the rest know only that Ichiro-san is recovering from an illness and she speaks for him until them. “That won’t last long,†agrees Ryu, concerned with his own agenda. When Natsuko presses for more information about McGregor and the group of people he is working with, Ryu is vague, implying only McGregor is of any importance, and that he bears watching. Ryu wants to stay connected with these others he has met, but needs a reason for Natsuko to allow it. He convinces her that there is a level of trust between McGregor and himself and that he wants to make sure the man doesn’t make things worse. He reveals nothing of Stang or the others, and specifically makes no mention of his sister. Back at Sufficient Grounds, Mr. Jones has noted a back log of e-mail. Normally one to spend every day online for at least a while, he has gone almost three days without checking in, and at least one person is quite concerned. Jones finds a series of “Are you ok?†messages from Sangre Eterna (her handle), one of his long term online friends. Real name is Beth, and Jones has more than a crush on her. They met once (she lives in Santa Barbara) IRL, and it turned out to be very uncomfortable. Jones is convinced that this was because he couldn’t concentrate long enough, and was sure she just forgot he was there. They’ve since returned to the safety of their on-line friendship, though Jones is carrying a bit of torch for her. This is, of course, complicated by the fact that while IM-ing each other, Sangre Eterna asks Jones if he will be around in a couple days. Seems she is coming into town for some work. (She writes for some on-line magazines and might get a staff position and is going to FtF with the owners.) Jones is a bit stumped, honestly thinking, “Well, I could be dead by then…†but agrees to meet her, both elated and terrified. McGregor sticks his head over and asks what’s up. When Jones tells him, Damien says, “Alright! Got yerself a girl! Way to go, Jones!†It is an authentic congratulations, as McGregor really likes Jones. Back to back in a gunfight was really a bonding moment for Damien. Jones, jokingly asks, “So… can I borrow the ‘vette when I see her?†Damien looks at him sternly. “I don’t drive like Terry!†says Jones. “You don’t TRY to drive like Terry do you?†asks McGregor, and then reluctantly hands over the keys. “You’ll have to ask Jasmine where she parked it.†He says this as Melissa’s phone rings. Cursing at the noise, she scrabbles for it, and answers with a “Christ… ok, ok… what do you want? Oh hey Zeus… what… yeah, he’s here… ok…†She hands the phone to McGregor. “It’s Zeus. Something is up…†After McGregor answers Zeus says, “Hey boss I…†then the phone goes quiet before another voice comes on. “Where the fuck are you, McGregor?†hisses a nasal Jersey whine all to familiar to Damien. “Oh hey Vinnie. How you doin? Where are you?†says Damien. He is cut off. “Enough of that noise. The question is where are you, McGregor?†snaps Vinnie. “You are late… I’ve had to track you down. I don’t like havin’ to work like that, y’know!†McGregor rubs the bridge of his nose. Yeah, he knows. Vinnie is a little prick, but he is the family’s little prick, and putting up with Vinnie is the price of independence. Now he knows that Vinnie is here for the monthly vig, and McGregor runs through some quick calculations. Yeah… he has the money, but after the bath he took when the Avenger smashed up his last fight, this is going to totally tap him out. Not that Vinnie cares. “Hey, I got what you need, Vinnie. No problem. You in L.A.? I’m in San Fran. We meet, I get you the money!†“An extra day, and extra 10% Damien… you know the drill,†says Vinnie and McGregor starts to get pissed… but finally they agree to meet, with Vinnie driving up to SanFran which will take about four hours or so. “You got until 2:30, McGregor… and I want my extra 10%†finishes Vinnie then hangs up. “It’s always something…†mutters Damien to himself. To be cont'd...

Well.... I appreciate the nudge. We had a game last Thursday, but Friday and Saturday I was busy, and Sunday my girl had the computer all day working on a major presentation... so I went out and played Magic. I need to get writing... I realize. Glad to know at least one person is looking forward to these.

I immediately think of the Busiek Avengers (current run) where the team was defeated by a bunch of Moses Magnum's agents at the airport. Hawkeye (I think) couldn't believe they had been beaten by "a bunch of guys with guns!"

To some extent, I agree. I'd also say that I think Champions and other super RPGs have had an effect on comics, as well. I'd bet a lot of modern comic writers have gamed... they've been forced to reconcile that a PC Hero without resistant defense will EVENTUALLY get unlucky and get killed. When you take the genre out of the "total control by the writer" then many of the inconsistencies and glaring stupidities of the classic comic book genre become very evident. To that end, I've never gamed to "emulate a genre" Approximate it, perhaps. Inspired by it... certainly... but anyone who has ever thought about RPGs vs. source material realizes that the medium MAKES the genre. Comics are different from books are different from movies are different from RPGs... though all may feature the same character and similar plots. To me, the joy of Hero is that it created the genre in a way I thought much MUCH better than the comics themselves. I don't enjoy reading Superman, where this godlike being's existence really doesn't change the course of humanity. It is not only for game balance that the Hero System brings supers "down to earth"... but I think it allows for a much more believable and internally consistent world building experience. Sorry about the rant, but it bugs me when people imply that "fun" can only be had by genre emulation... when the fun I have comes from doing the "superhero thang!" better than any comic ever has. I personally think my game IMPROVES on the comic genre, tossing out the really cheesy stuff... and the Hero System helps to support that.

Ok... I have to just throw this in... all in fun... but damn, Chuck. A right wing Catholic? You are just ASKING for abuse, dude! And since it's my fantasy world, I get to tear into the right wing Republicans all I want. (Not that the far left is any better... they are just lame as villains. Col. Code Of Conduct just doesn't strike as much fear as War-Monger or The Corporate Man!)

Back to topic... Though I love discussing the appropriate use of Agents... I just thought I'd chime in with my concept on "Super enough?" 350 is new hero, slightly experienced. If they have raw power, they likely have less skill in using it. It's New Teen Titans/New Warriors/60s-70s era Avengers. If you really want to be good... I just say go with more points. 450-550... and I think you get the feel of most comics sub-JLA or Authority. Most agent battles are walk overs, unless surprised and overwhelmed. To get to the truly world beater level... you gotta be 600+ and I'd say closer to 750 or more... in power. I have PCs who have gained EXP from 275 up to 600+, and they are world class... but much of their influence is political, and they really couldn't stand toe to toe with a military brigade... ALMOST... but not quite. That's the feel of my campaign, though... as there are only a few characters, NPCs really, that are more powerful than they are... Omega Class as I call them. The 600 pt PCs are still thought of as "the big guns" and truly are... but not in a casual "nothing can touch me" way. They still need organizations and political clout to avoid military strikes. If they went on the offensive, though... hit and run assaults... there is not much to be done without sending a squadron of other metas after them. Military would be too slow and easy to avoid.

Important Rant This has always been an issue with me. The "anti-mutant" deal... but the Human Torch is "a-ok!" C'mon! I've always played up any anti-paranormal bias as "anti-power." People are just afraid of other people who can fly, shoot energy beams from their eyes and topple buildings when angry. Genocide was a fringe group that was quickly crushed in my campaign, but it's members found purchase in the anti-metahuman, pro-PRA, right wing political groups and agencies. Those made more sense, and had lasting impact on my campaign. Metahuman vs. normal human... that is the real social conundrum.

Episode 4: GB & U GM Summary: The Good: First real "non-combat" evening... with most of the PC effort being spent planning what to do, talking and interacting with each other and NPCs. It was unfortunate Ferrett/Berkmann wasn't here, as he could have really shone... but at the same time, this allowed McGregor to really establish his "organized crime" creds. Plus, this was the first night that the "world" felt comfortable. The brief conversation between Terry and Dr. Cole was really solid... Natsuko really took on a life of her own... and when the Chinese cook showed up again, James and Joe actually cheered. "Hey... the big guy got a promotion!" It really felt like the PCs and the Players were truly immersed in the world. The Bad: I still find it hard with these characters, to give everyone something significant for their character. Especially Mr. Jones. It's hard to create social interaction with a character whom nobody notices. Also, I don't think the players give a whit about Stang. No matter how supportive he is, or what he can help do... they seemed ready to just dump him as soon as Wu warned them. Since he is such a straight up kind of guy, without any strong quirks to his character, I think he just fades into the background. Unfortunate, since so much revolves around him as my Deus Ex Machina. The Ugly: Had to have a big metagame discussion both before and after the game, so that GM and players can hash out where we want the game to go. I've been confused by certain character actions (Ryu in particular) and having a tough time figuring out any consistency. This isn't a bad thing, but I've learned just to talk about this stuff openly, let the players know where I'm struggling... ask them what they like and don't like... etc. It doesn't help to just "soldier on" when a good, spirited discussion can help the game for everyone. Just have to be willing to hear "You know... I really don't like..." and accept it as taste, not criticism. This is a good group, and we metagame all the time, but for this new campaign, I really want to make sure we do it out in the open as much as possible.

Episode 4 Recap: Dangerous Negotiations Once parked at the edge of Chinatown, the group debates their tactics as evening falls. It is suggested that they just put Ryu on the street and wait for someone to try something. Finally, Terry heads out, saying, "I operated in Hong Kong and southeast Asia for a long time. I think I know what to look for. Keep you distance and let me do my thing." Frustrated, McGregor hangs back sucking on a cigarette while Owens heads down the hill. Off the main drag there are a number of restaurants and bars primarily frequented by locals and not tourists. Outside of one, Owen's spots a group of six male Chinese, all in their teens. They are leaning against the front wall, smoking, and trying to look tough... skinny arms dangling in too-new black leather jackets. This is a familiar scene to Terry. He knows the Triads finance and recruit from the gangs... using them as soldiers and messengers. Most of the actual Red Poles (enforcers) come out of the gangs. Terry walks right up to them. Jones is not far behind, lost in the street crowds. Ryu follows in the shadows. "Good evening, gentlmen," he says... casually holding his hands away from himself in a non-threatening manner. "I mean no trouble, and I'm asking for your help. I know things are very touchy right now, but I may be able to help. I need to talk to Wu. I think you gentlmen may be able to put me in touch with him." One youth steps up. Clearly the leader, he only comes up to Terry's chest... but his bravado is unmatched. As he stands in front of Terry, the others instinctively begin to circle the big man, though not with a lot of enthusiasm. Terry clearly looks like he could break any one of them in half. "You are not welcome here, English!" sneers the leader. "Now now, gents..." says Terry, shifting on to the balls of his feet. "This is business... no threat. I can pay you hard cash for your services. I just want to talk with Wu." The leader continues to sneer, then nods his head toward the dark alley next to the restaurant. "We take this more private, maybe?" he asks, in a clear challenge to Terry to see if he will go. Owens just nods, resigned, and says "Whatever you say." They walk as a group into the darkness, still circled around Terry. Of course, they don't notice Jones just ten feet behind them. Nor does anyone see Ryu slip ghostlike across the street, and scramble up the opposite side of the restaurant to the roof. "Damnit!" snaps McGregor, seeing this unfold, and he starts moving quickly down the hill, crushing out his cigarette as he goes. In the alley, blocked from the view of most passer-bys, the leader turns around and confronts Terry, blowing cigarette smoke at him, but it just curls around his thick chest. Undeterred, the leader says, "You ask too much. No one will talk to you, English." His sneer breaks into a full smile. "But you will still pay us." His hard eyes meet Terry's. "Give us your money... then just walk away." The rest of the gang just snickers. "Ok then..." shrugs Terry, and then his fist pistons out like cannon shot. It takes the leader square in the nose, extending another six inches, crushing cartilage and snapping the kids neck back, dropping him like a wet sack... he hits the pavement with a "slumph" and clutches his face... a slow moan bubbling from the spray of blood. Terry spins immediately, putting his back against the wall, holding his hands up and saying gently, "Hey, hey now. I don't want this. I just want to talk to Wu. I don't want to hurt anyone." At least that is what Terry thinks he says. To the gang members and Jones right behind them Terry says and is something else. When he whirls, his eyes are black pools and his voice is an even darker blackness, words grinding out in a evil tone, saying "You will take me to Wu... or I will kill every single one of you." His left hand is out, the palm somehow catching reflected light from the street, and the exposed tattoo of Kali seems to writhe in the shadows. The gang members go stone silent and still, except for one which tries to turn and run, only to come face to barrel with Jones' gun. "Shhhh..." says Jones to the terrified boy. "You," growls Terry. "Get Wu..." he says, then makes the others sit down by the wall. One has clearly soiled his pants and seems about to cry. As the one member runs around the corner, Jones says, "Laid it on a bit thick, don't you think?" looking warrily at Terry. "Eh?" says the ex-SAS merc, blinking a bit and looking questioningly at Jones? He blinks as the hazy moments pass, and he remembers what he was trying to say, and realizes what he actually said. Up above, Ryu witnesses this, and drops down a few stories, landing in silence and darkness, unnoticed by anyone. Just then McGregor makes the entrance to the alley. He is about to ask what the hell happened, when the gang member comes back out of the restaurant pushed ahead of two older, bigger men... clearly Triad Red Poles. The gang member blubbers, and there is a moment of tension as he points down the alley... then McGregor and one of the Red Poles see each other, and there is recognition. This soldier was with Wu four days ago, when the fight was held and the Avenger attacked. To McGregor's relief, the Red Pole stops, silences the gang member, then bows to McGregor. "You are known and welcome here," he says to McGregor... then sees Terry and Jones. He bows again to Jones, who is concentrating on maintaining his visibility. "You are honored as well for your actions." Clearly the fact that these two helped save Wu from the Yaks is known here. The calm doesn't last, though. Just then, as the soldier invites McGregor and "his men" into the restaurant, Ryu steps out of the shadow. The Chinese start... then grab for their guns, faces twisted in anger. "NO! NO! WAIT!" yells McGregor, stepping in between the men, arms up. "He's with me. I am speaking for them. I take responsibility for him. I really need to speak to Wu, and he needs to be there." At this point, Ryu simply extends his hands outward, palms up, and goes down on his knees in a position of complete subservience. This all takes the Red Poles by surprise. The one who is known sends the other back inside the restaurant. It is an agonizing minute, then he comes back and nods. Terry, McGregor and Jones are allowed inside without fuss... but inside, Ryu is greeted by at least seven other Red Poles, each with pistol or SMG aimed right at him. He is forced to sit in the middle of the emptied front room, on his hands, while the others stand around him, effectively covering him while minimizing the chance of catching their fellows in a possible crossfire. One twitch and Ryu will be just so much red paste. The group stays like this for some time. Nearly 30 minutes of silence and tension. Then the known Red Pole goes back into the kitchen and returns with Wu who has his leg bandaged and is accompanied by the big Chinese cook last seen at the restaurant. The cook helps Wu to a chair, then nods at McGregor and Jones while cradling the captured SPAZ shotgun in his big arms, with the barrel pointed generally at Ryu. "You continue to surprise me, Mr. McGregor," says Wu as a greeting, and beckons Damien to sit across from him. Wu introduces the Red Pole who knew them as Ka Lo. "He is my man now," indicating that Chow Yen has been replaced. "Tell me why you are here. I expect it to be quite interesting," he finishes, looking at Ryu. Damien then explains his position; his feelings of responsibility for the current violence, and his hope that he can help stop it before it escalates. He submits Ryu as witness and supplicant from the Yakuza… and he specifically says, “From the Oyabun… we come to you with downcast eyes.†He says this very quietly, just to Wu and Ka Lo, and takes his time to say only what needs said. He assures them that this is legitimate. Wu thinks on it, studying Ryu… then says “The Dragon’s Head will have to be told. Only he can make the decision. I do not know what will be the next step, but you have done well.†He smiles at McGregor. “We are both business men. This violence helps no one… but know that something will be asked of the Nine Flower Gang as compensation.†Finally, Wu looks over at Terry, and asks McGregor… “That is Stang’s man, no?†When confirmed , Wu shakes his head. “My advice to you, do not trust Stang. Do not work with him. He is… as you say… dead man walking. He is in a very dangerous place. Do not follow his doom.†McGregor takes this in, understanding that it is not the Triads who threaten Stang, but clearly something even more deadly. With that, Wu is escorted back out of the restaurant, while Ryu is kept under guard. Finally, the four leave escorted by Ka Lo back to their vehicle outside of Chinatown. He gives McGregor his number to contact, bows and leaves them. Breathing a major sigh of relief, McGregor lights up his 20th cigarette of the day… fingers trembling slightly from the tension. “Ok… ok… ok… we’ve made it so far!†he says and smiles. “So now what?†And he looks at the group. “Now we wait,†says Terry. Ryu is simply silent, contemplating the audio bug he planted in the restaurant while sitting there, hoping it will pick up some useful information. (Eric spent a Blue Chit to have done this… which was a perfect ninja thing to do.) End of Episode 4.

This was exactly why Berkmann chose it! He's a smart one, he is... our wacky, paranoid doctor!

Episode 4: Band On The Run pt 2 Owens, Jones, McGregor, Dr. Cole and Melissa make it away from the scene before the authorities show up, and drive some miles away to a Super 8 Motel. They get set up for the night in adjoining rooms, and Dr. Cole makes sure Melissa will be all right. She has been drugged, and doesn't come around immediately. The group abandons most of their cell phones, as Berkmann warns them they can be easily tapped. Dr. Cole was given a Sat-phone when she came with them, but they keep it's use sparing, as to minimize being compromised. Back at Stang's, Jasmine receives a call from Ryu... stating that he is safe. She relays Ryu to McGregor and the two hash out a plan. McGregor wants Ryu to guarantee him safe passage to meet with the Oyabun. He wants to see if he can negotiate between the two groups, but knows the Yakuza may just want him dead. Ryu agrees, and says he will speak with his people. At this point, he is quite conflicted, as he was looking for a way out of the Yakuza... even going so far as to plan a way to fake his own death... and now he has to head back to them, use his position with them. He calls Natsuko and wakes her. She agrees to meet him on the roof of the Westcorp building. There is a garden there, and when he arrives, he is surprised there are no guards. She is alone, and tells him that any decision made will have to be hers. Her father is better, but is withdrawn. Ryu asks if she will agree to meet with McGregor... and she says yes. They set a time. Ryu then asks her how she came to know the sign language taught to him by his ninja clan. Natsuko tells him that her father taught her. "My father always said that only the genin could truly be trusted. I'm putting my trust in you, Ryu," she says, her hand on his arm. He nods and leaves... knowing that only hours before, he was planning on abandoning her and the ikka completely. The next day is long and boring. The group moves hotels, and changes vehicles, concerned about being tracked. A brief call to Stang by Dr. Cole indicates that while the police have questioned him, there has been no overt moves made by anyone. They are one guard, but doing well. At one point, Owens and Dr. Cole are alone in the hotel room, watching TV. Owens says, "You impress me, Dr. You are really good at this... handling the situation well." She thanks him, saying that he should get over it, or just continue to be surprised. Then she asks, "So how are you doing? You haven't asked me anything about your condition." Owens gets uncomfortable and clams up, taking the remote and turning up the TV volume. "I still want a second opinion," he finally says. Dr. Cole lets it drop, for the moment. The next day, Jones, Owens and McGregor go to meet the Yakuza at a restaurant just off of Union Square, at the top of a department store. It is prior to lunch business, and quiet. Mr. Jones goes in first, unseen, to scout the area, and finds nothing threatening. Natsuko, Ryu and two guards are in a secluded part of the restaurant. McGregor and Owens soon arrive, and after the hostess leaves them, suffer the pat down, turn over their weapons, and sit. McGregor is with Natsuko and Ryu... Owens sits nearby with one of the guards. McGregor explains that he meant no offense by operating in San Francisco, and wishes to make amends. He is willing to pay any appropriate cost, but also offers himself as a go-between with the Triads. He talks quickly and casually, sometimes running on at the mouth, but all with good intent. Natsuko finally turns to Ryu and speaks in Japanese. "He seems to mean well, but he is brash and ill mannered. Can such as he be trusted to speak for us?" Ryu thinks, and begins to give a qualified, "If he has the contact he says, and if..." Natsuko cuts him off. "There is no if. You must give me an answer. Yes or no. Can he do what he says he can do?" Ryu is put on the spot. He does not have any clue whether McGregor can pull this off, but Ryu has no other choice at this time. He has put his chips in this pot, whether he intended to or not. "Yes," he finally says, his voice firm, though his thoughts are anything but. Natsuko turns to McGregor. "Understand this. If you do this, then you speak for my father and all of the Nine Flower Gang. You must speak well." She looks McGregor in the eye, then says, "What I say next, you must be able to repeat fully and without error. You must tell the Dragon's Head the following... you must say, "The Yakuza come to you with downcast eyes." Do you understand? It must be said just so!" At their table, Owens and the Yak guard had been getting comfortable, even exchanging humorous smirks at McGregor's ramblings. When this is said, though... the Yak's eyes go wide, then cast downward... he visibly trembles, and does not meet Owen's face again. Owens tries to make light of it, but is unable to break through. The group takes it's leave, then. Ryu accompanies them, at Natsuko's request. With relief at getting out with his head still attached, Damien and the rest go back to meet up with Dr. Cole and Melissa who has come around. She remembers little or nothing of being picked up by the agents, but seems none the worse for wear. They move hotels again... paranoid, but more secure. Then begin to try and figure out how to contact the Triads. Jasmine has left to take McGregor's Corvette... a too obvious target, to a garage, and pick up something much more non-descript. Much to Ryu's concern and McGregor's chagrin, it turns out that Damien's limited contacts are of no avail. Previously he had called Wu's man, Chow Yen... but Yen is dead now, and though he leaves a message at that number, no one returns the call. The day passes without luck, and as evening falls, McGregor, Owen, Wu and Ryu head to Chinatown. They hope to find some kind of contact that won't get them killed... even though Ryu knows that any Japanese with any sense of the local situation wouldn't be anywhere near Chinatown at this time. Still the group heads into the area, desperate to contact the Triads before they retaliate and escalate the war even more. To be continued...