|
Major
Posts: 3492
WWSMD?
|
Terry was headed up the anti grav lift dressed in a clean set of overalls, a tee shirt and loafers. He was on his way up to see Mikhail and let Thomas know the repairs to the "Maiden of Honor" were finished for his next match. Even though he was a mechwarrior now, there was plenty of work to be done during the grand tourney and all skilled hands were accepted. Dog was still working on the Nightsky after Sir Yamaguchi's match, but let Terry go after he ensured Dame Sanchez's ride was ready to go. Those thoughts were soon put out of his mind.
Normally, the sound dampening effects of the ferrocrete walls would make the ride a silent one, but as the elevator came closer to the floor Sir Mikhail was on, he heard the sound of the alarm designed to be a shrill alert that sould pass thru the thick walls. Panic exploded in his eyes. He turned to the nurse next to him. "What does that mean?"
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
Easing his katana back into the saya at his side, he droped one hand back into the volumopus sleeve of his gi useing the material to cover his nambu pistol from view. Waveing Michael back. "Stay in the room with Franks and Lupiner, I will go look. Let no one, not even the doctors until I return." With that he kicked off his sandles and sprinted down the hall in socked feet. As the door to the elvator opened on the floor he raised his hand and droped it just as swiftly. "Terry, follow me, we're going down to physio." Not bothering to see if he was followed he made his way down hurridley to the physiotherapy room. Libra's Shadow badge filling his hand as he approached the first guard. Adopting a comanding tone, and as much of a command pressence as he could (intimidate+0) he spoke. "report. what happened here?"
|
|
|
Major
Posts: 3492
WWSMD?
|
Terry did not have his new tools on him, but he did have his badge and put it in view, above and behind Thomas. He face a calm passive mask with the exception of his eyes as they squinted and he turned his head as is expecting an answer from the guard. (Also has Intimidation +0)
|
|
|
Major
Posts: 4614
|
As the choas pulled many people away from their regular duties another action was taking place behind their very backs. Joshua Dyal had just been wheeled into his room after going through surgery for wounds sustained earlier in the day from his match. A lone doctor was left to care for Joshua as the others left to report to their stations for just such an occasion. The doctor made the final checks on Joshua, satisfied that his work was done and left Joshua alone in his room.
After the chaos subsided and the attendings were sent back to their regular duties another series of events took place. A light was flashing outside of Joshua Dyal's room right above his door. The light meant that immediate care was needed in the room. Two doctors and two nurses ran to the room. One of the nurses was pushing a crash cart. Inside the room the staff worked at a frantic pace to revive Joshua. For fifteen minutes they tried, and failed. "Why didn't we get the monitor alarm if he was so bad off?" one of the nurses questioned. A doctor followed the leads that were hooked up to Joshua down along the bed and up to the heart monitor next to the bed. Behind the monitor the line had been severed, leaving the front of the lead in the machine and thus giving the appearence that it was still hooked up. The doctor also noticed that the volume on the machine had been turned all the way down. "This is why." he said. "Somebody has cut the leads in back. We never would have known with all of the chaos going on around here. Giselle, call security. Rob, call the morgue. I want a complete autopsy on Mr. Dyal." Both left the room to attend to their assigned tasks. The doctor pulled the sheet over Joshua's face.
In a cafe down the street a figure sat sipping on a coffee. He pulled out his personal not pad and typed in "Completed". He got up, put some money on the table and left the shop. That was one less scum bag Comstar spy to deal with.
|
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
Easing his katana back into the saya at his side, he droped one hand back into the volumopus sleeve of his gi useing the material to cover his nambu pistol from view. Waveing Michael back. "Stay in the room with Franks and Lupiner, I will go look. Let no one, not even the doctors until I return." With that he kicked off his sandles and sprinted down the hall in socked feet. As the door to the elvator opened on the floor he raised his hand and droped it just as swiftly. "Terry, follow me, we're going down to physio." Not bothering to see if he was followed he made his way down hurridley to the physiotherapy room. Libra's Shadow badge filling his hand as he approached the first guard.
As Thomas and Terry rush into the physical therapy lab they stumble upon a scene of bloody tragedy. Lying on the floor, in a pool of blood, is the body of a nurse. Buried in her throat, up to the hilt, is a heavy duty screw driver. Two other nurses are trying to keep other observers at bay while a doctor, and a medtech, lean over the body. Blood is still oozing from the puncture wound. The doctor shakes his head. "There is nothing I can do, she's been dead to long . . " Adopting a comanding tone, with as much of a command presence as he could muster, Thomas speaks. "Report. What happened here?"
The physician looks up at Shinyo, and the towering form of Terry. Glancing down he makes note of their badges. The Doctor speaks. "Gentlemen, apparently Nurse Corrine just met her fate, at the hands of a technician's screw driver." Suddenly one of the other nurses calls out. "WAIT!! Doctor Hansen, I remember seeing a technician enter the room about 45 minutes ago. He was coming in to check the calibration of one of the Nautilis machines, I remember that from when he signed in at the nurse's station." She turns and looks accross the room to the service elevator. "He couldn't have gone far, he never signed back out. Wait . .the service elevator!!" Just as Thomas and Terry start to run for the elevator one of the nurse's radio goes off. She looks down and grabs it. "Hello? Madeline, what's wrong?!? Oh my God . . . " She looks at the doctor, her face pales. "Doctor, its our recent arrival . . the Bromley pilot . . he's . .dead . ." "WHAT?!?" Exclaims the physician, "I JUST stabilized him two hours ago?!?" "Sir, it was his life support systems . .they were . . deactivated . ." |
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
"Terry, you're a tech, check the machines in there. See what the bastard did to them if you can" As he spoke, he ran, heading for the elevator. The once concealed Nambu now obvious in his hand. He doubted he would catch anyone, but he had to try. Running he spoke into his personal com to LSHQ. "We've had a situation down at St. Andrews. One assassination, and what I am guessing was another gone bad, resulting in a dead nurse. Police will be on scene soon, but after we are going to need all avalible to run security for downed mechwarriors. Have Luke and Robert contact me ASAP, Shinyo out." By the time he finished speaking he had come to a stop, without so much as a description to go on, there was no chance now that he could find his target, which meant it was time to do what he can to keep anyone else from becomeing victims, as well as collect what reports he could from the nurses and anyone else. Maybe security cameras would have a good image they could work with...though he suspected that an assassin of any calibre would not be wearing thier own face if they where masqueradeing as a tech. Still, maybe Rei could digitally strip a disquise off, and give them something to work with.
|
|
|
Major
Posts: 3492
WWSMD?
|
((All of my Tech skills are at a +1 or +2 depending on their function))
Terry moved over to the first machine then looked back at the closest nurse,"This'll mighty difficult without some tools. Call your handyman and get him up here with his gear please."
|
|
|
Major
Posts: 4614
|
Julia had come in today just like all the other days. This time however she updated Alexander on all that was happening in and out of the hospital. "The city was falling apart again" was how she summed it up. It wasn't a pretty picture and the news agencies were just eating it up. The old saying, "If it bleeds it leads." couldn't have been truer then the last two weeks. Some people were calling for the mayor's resignation. Alexander was itching to get out of the hospital. One more week of being stuck in the here and then he could be released to the stable's doctors to finish up his rehab. Alexander couldn't wait to get home.
|
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
"Terry, you're a tech, check the machines in there. See what the bastard did to them if you can" As he spoke, he ran, heading for the elevator. The once concealed Nambu now obvious in his hand. He doubted he would catch anyone, but he had to try. Running he spoke into his personal com to LSHQ. "We've had a situation down at St. Andrews. One assassination, and what I am guessing was another gone bad, resulting in a dead nurse. Police will be on scene soon, but after we are going to need all avalible to run security for downed mechwarriors. Have Luke and Robert contact me ASAP, Shinyo out." By the time he finished speaking he had come to a stop, without so much as a description to go on, there was no chance now that he could find his target, which meant it was time to do what he can to keep anyone else from becomeing victims, as well as collect what reports he could from the nurses and anyone else. Maybe security cameras would have a good image they could work with...though he suspected that an assassin of any calibre would not be wearing thier own face if they where masqueradeing as a tech. Still, maybe Rei could digitally strip a disquise off, and give them something to work with.
By the time Thomas gets to the bottom floor of St. Andrews, and the maintenance dock all that is left of the assassin passing is a flaming dumpster. Frustrated, Sir Shinyo checks with some of the people who are standing around. After talking to a handful people he realizes that no-one actually saw the assailant leave. A few folks saw him as he exited the service elevator, but no-one was around when he exited the immediate vacinity. Someone did mention that they saw a unmarked service van leaving. Terry moved over to the first machine then looked back at the closest nurse,"This'll mighty difficult without some tools. Call your handyman and get him up here with his gear please."
Back on the fourth floor Terry starts going around and checking all of the machines in the physical therapy lab. He descovered, after being brought some tools by one of the Physical Plant workers, that the leg lift Nautillis machine has been tampered with. (ooc: rolled technician / electronics and mechanics) Apparently the machine's voltage regulator had been altered, and re-routed so that it was directly hooked into the machine's metal frame. Terry thinks about it for a minute and realizes that the thing was jurry-rigged so that when it was activated it would pump over 200 volts of juice directly into the machine's frame. The act of sabotage would have come close to electrocuting any patient that decided to use the thing. The thought of someone being fried by massive volts of energy, while trying to conduct physical therapy, chills Terry to the bone. Obviously the maneuver was meant to shock the life out of someone . . but who? |
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
When he got back from his search his eyes held a dark coldness, his face a mask of frustration, makeing it clear to all without words that the assailant was gone. After checking in with Terry and finding out what was done, he made a search of the patients scheduled for physio in the next little while. After discarding all but the mechwarriors he was left with two names. Mikhail Lupiner of Galahad, and Alex Cellini of the Black Lions. Both of whom it seems where originally scheduled to use the machine, though Mikhail was first on the list, makeing him the primary target no doubt of this impromptu electric chair. Time to report in.
It was a frim and disgruntled looking Thomas that steped into Mikahils room after letting the other two know who it was so as to not enter into a hail of bullets. Bowing he looked at Mikhail, the combine born warrior obviously clinging to tradition as an anchoring point for his emotions. "Lupiner-san. It seems you where the target of this assasin, or rather one of the targets." Not spareing any details he gave Mikhail the full report of what happened, when he was done he finished with. "I do not believe any injured mechwarrior should be allowed to be without escort. I imagine all the hospitals will be stepping up their own security meassures, but I think we will need to do the same ourselves...it seems the storm is moveing faster then I had feared."
|
|
|
Major
Posts: 3492
WWSMD?
|
Obviously the maneuver was meant to shock the life out of someone . . but who? Taking a second, he looked back at the nurse. "Can you please find out who was scheduled for therapy next in this bed?" He reached behind the machine and pulled the plug to prevent any accidental contact with the frame and did a brief check of the rest of the equipment as the nurse went to check her records. |
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
Taking a second, he looked back at the nurse. "Can you please find out who was scheduled for therapy next in this bed?" He reached behind the machine and pulled the plug to prevent any accidental contact with the frame and did a brief check of the rest of the equipment as the nurse went to check her records.
The nurse comes back a few minutes later, she doesn't look happy. "It was Sir Lupenir of Galahad stables. After him the next patient was scheduled to be Mr. Cellini. IT could have been either of them, however . .why would anyone want to assasinate Sir Mikhail . .? I know he' a clanner, but I don't understand . .he's done so much for Montenegro . .and Solaris City from what I've heard." About this time the Montenegro Police Depasrtment arrive, locking the place down. The halls and room are quickly filled with a half dozen police officers and three plains clothes detectives. |
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
When he got back from his search his eyes held a dark coldness, his face a mask of frustration, makeing it clear to all without words that the assailant was gone. After checking in with Terry and finding out what was done, he made a search of the patients scheduled for physio in the next little while. After discarding all but the mechwarriors he was left with two names. Mikhail Lupiner of Galahad, and Alex Cellini of the Black Lions. Both of whom it seems where originally scheduled to use the machine, though Mikhail was first on the list, makeing him the primary target no doubt of this impromptu electric chair. Time to report in.
It was a frim and disgruntled looking Thomas that steped into Mikahils room after letting the other two know who it was so as to not enter into a hail of bullets. Bowing he looked at Mikhail, the combine born warrior obviously clinging to tradition as an anchoring point for his emotions. "Lupiner-san. It seems you where the target of this assasin, or rather one of the targets." Not spareing any details he gave Mikhail the full report of what happened, when he was done he finished with. "I do not believe any injured mechwarrior should be allowed to be without escort. I imagine all the hospitals will be stepping up their own security meassures, but I think we will need to do the same ourselves...it seems the storm is moveing faster then I had feared."
Mikhail frowns, nodding grimly. "Aff friend Thomas, that would appear to be the case." The giant ex-clanner looks over at the window still frowning. "I understand not why someone would try to kill me, my main adversary was Arakiel . .and was . . well . .dealt with." Mikhail strokes his chin in thought. "Who else was scheduled to use the machine?" He then looks over at Dame Franks, and then back to Thomas. "Also, I understand not why someone would time thier attacks like this. Who was the real target of this attack, warrior Dyal of Bromley . .or the next usr of the Therapy machine? I understand not . ." Mikhail swivels out of bed and stumps over to the nearby table to fetch his pistol belt, and noteputer. "Another thing Thomas, one that I agree with. NONE of us will travel alone, not until we get a better understanding of what is going on." Mikhail shakes his head looking down. "This is stravag madness!!" Dame Franks nods solemnly. I agreee Mikhail. She then looks over at Thomas. "Tom, do you want to call Dame Donaldson or shall I?" |
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
"I think you had best call Dame Donaldson, I am going to go and discuss matters with the police" Shakeing his head he sighed "I do not know what is going on, my friends, but it is madness indeed. Perhaps someone is trying to eliminate competition for the Grand Tournament..but I have my doubts that is the case. What I do know Mikhail is that the next two people that where scheduled to use that machine where you and warrior Cellini, in that order, and Ido not believe this strike was against you by an enemy you have knowingly made, unless it was the Emerald Dragons behind it, but shadows and secrecy do not seem to be their way." Frowning he turned his eyes to the door a moment before he spoke. "I am also going to speak with the Black Lions. While you and Cellini are both here, it will be a simple enough matter to co-ordinate our efforts to keep this from happening again...I wonder what it is I did in my life that earned me the bad karma that has me dealing with monsters and assassins?"
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
August 27 3067
St. Andrew's General Hospital
Emergency Surgery Suite 2
A bright flash of azure light was followed by blackness. No pain, just a sense of weightlessly floating in perpetual darkness and silence. He was dead, in his mind he knew that as sure as he knew his own name. Death held no fright for him though. He had lived a good life. He had done what he believed to be right and honorable, and he had died a warrior. His only regret was that his death came in the arena, not on the field, fighting to protect others. Still, that was a regret he felt he could handle for all of eternity. Still somehow he expected heaven to be something more then this, and hell to be far worse.
Hell is worse. Hell hurts like, well hell. It also was surrounded by people he recognized and knew where not dead. Mikhail and Sir Bowman. recognized only in silhouette the bright, clean white lights behind them makeing it hard for him to see, but they where people he knew very well indeed and even if he could not see them, their voices, which sounded like they where comeing from a great distance, and filtered by the sound of a roaring torrent of water, or was that his pulse echoing within his skull?
What he could hear, what he could make out through the haze in his mind, and the thunder in his head left him convinced he was in hell, the hell he had known for the better part of twenty years. The hell of constantly striveing to protect good people from those who would prey upon them. The hell he had chossen to walk in so that others might have a hope of heaven. He would walk that path again soon enough, but not right now. Now he needed a little time to rest, and so closed his eyes and once more slipped down into the quiet oblivion that called for him, and in the darkness for the first time in a long time knew real peace.
|
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
ICU Recovery Ward, Room 134
St. Andrews General Hospital
August 29, 3067
Thomas' dreams stir his sleep. He has a rather disturbing vision about a woman clad in black, shod in tabi boots and lurking in the shadows.
She is following a group of Combine nobles through the streets of some Japanse looking city. When the vision pans, as the woman stops, looking up at the night sky, Thom sees it is the Lotus district of Kobe. It is one of the finer, more luxurious nieghborhoods. She looks back down, peering through the dark at her prey. Accross her back Thomas makes note of a shorter, straight sword, often referred to as a Ninja-to.
This woman continues to track her prey as they make their way into a beautiful Oriental garden style park. The Nobles stop to gaze into a nearby pool, taking note of the huge gold fish and coy that are just beneath the surface. Soon a small cluster of men stp out into the moonlight from a nearby rock covered path. they too make note of the tranquil setting and then boy in respect to the two Warlords and their bodyguards. After a brief greeting is made in Japanese they begin discussing business, and the fall of a certain personality from power.
Thomas sees the woman, cloaked in shadow, beneath the boughs of a towering rose bush. From her within her slingback she produces a electronic device, Thomas recognizes it as a sound amplification listening mic. She slips an earpiece in and begins absorbing the conversation. Her dark eyes narrow as she turns over the words in her mind. Cursing in Japanese she then switches to English. "You wouldn't dare . . " she mutters.
The vision pans back out to the garden where the nobles are wrapping up their discussion. The lead Noble's face turns grim as he makes a fist. He says something about ascending to power and making sacrifices for the betterment of the Combine. The second party bows in respect and agreement. Finally they part ways and head off in separate directions. They pass within meters of the near invisible 'watcher.' She freezes and slows her breathing to that not even the nearby air is disturbed by her presence.
As the Nobles, along with their accompanying entourage pass by, one of the bodyguards looks to his master. "That went well, quiaff? It still amazes me how your definition of honor and treason is so malleable." He shakes his close cropped head frowning. "I am unfamiliar with such dezgra activities."
The Noble, wizened and serene looks to his retainer. "Warrior Jacob, you still have many things to learn about our culture. It is only our goal to better the survival and honor of our nation. By using, as you call it, the 'Bandit Caste' to destroy itself, it conserves our resources for more worthy targets. Just because I deal with the dregs now means not they will escape our wrath when the time of Reckoning comes. When that day is upon on none will escape the People's judgement, not even those who claim that they are in the Dragon's service."
At this point the small cluster of men leave earshot of the 'watcher.' She turns to point the microphone in their direction when a call comes in on her headset. The voice is soft, and barely audible. It is a simple series of three 'clicks.' Knowing what this means the woman drops prone as a police cruiser passes by. By the time the car is gone so are the visitors.
Slowly and methodically she makes her way out of the park, She eventually links up with another figure, one that, like her almost 'materializes out of the shadows. After they exchange quick bows they make their way, silently and unseen, to a nearby waiting car. The woman looks over at her companion as they step out of the shadows. She looks at him and nods grimly. In Japanese she whispers to him. "We must let the Oyabun know, somehow. This does not bode well. The Yellow Bird is here, and it is working through the shadows. If Shisumi-sama knew how deep the treason was he might be more inclined to hear our concerns."
"Hai," Says the man as he approaches the parked vehicle. He grabs the initiator out of a concealled pocket and points it towards the vehicle while the woman drifts back into the shadows, still insuring they were not followed. Then suddenly, as if something in her soul-sight has warned her she looks over at her comapanion and screams. "Togrori . .NO!!!"
Suddenly the night is split as a firball consumes their vehicle, and her companion. The dream begins to fade as she is catapulted back from the explosion, her ghi is shredded as she is thrown backwards, end over end. As she tumbles into a nearby flower garden a trio of men step out of the shadows. They look at each other smiling in satisfaction. "One should not meddle where one is not welcome," mutters one of the shadowy figures in Japanese.
One of his companions looks over at the unconscious form of the woman. The vision continues to fade. "Kumicho, Shall we go finish her?" He asks.
The leader shakes his head, replying in Japanese. "No, we will allow her to suffer. It is better to allow one to live in dishonor and lonliness, that end their suffering. We shall slowly take away all that she holds dear. Her last days will be wrought with greif and suffering. Her day is not yet upon us. Besides, the decision to end her honorless existence is not mine to make." He turns to his companons. "Let us go, we have business to attend to."
|
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
Thom is finally stirred from his restless sleep by the deep, yet familiar voice of his old mentor. When he opens his weary, blurry visioned eyes he sees the hulking form of Mikhail standing vigil over his bedridden, bandage wrapped body. The huge ex-clansman makes note of Thomas and he stirs from his sleep. The soft beeping of monitors and medical aparatus drones on in the background. "Good Morning friend Thomas, good to see you are awake. Your sleep was restless and troubled. However, it is good the Founder decided to spare me your loss. Your Gods have sent you back."
The Galahad CyberKnight smiles slightly at the attempt at humor. He then looks over to the window and then back to Thomas. As Thom becomes more aware of his surrounding the smell of flowers becomes mingled with the clean, sterile smell of the hospital. He looks towards the window and sees numerous boquets of flowers, fragrant candles and other gifts. Mikhail nods as he sees Thomas take in the gifts. "You are missed. Your fans, and comrades worry for your safety. However you have made an amazing recovery, so far. The first night was filled with concern, however you are now stable."
Thomas looks back to his friend, and mentor. "Am I to join the ranks of the unemployed, or be called 'Cyber Samurai?" He tries to smile, but the pain and wraps prevent him from doing so.
Mikhail chuckles lightly. "Neg. Though your left leg was badly burned in the PPC blast, the doctors were able to salvage most of it. What they did not save will be replaced and augmented by titanium reinforcement and myomer. Unlike warrior Michaels, and myself, you still have all your limbs. The recovery will take some time, but you will be restored."
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
"Good. I need some news. A car bomb in Kobe, in the Lotus district I believe?" An Odd thing to ask, perhaps, but the dream, if dream it was, was so vivid, he could not help but seek to know it's truth while it still clung fresh within his mind. So vivid, and full of those who by their own choice have become his enemies, and the enemy of all who hold loyal to the Dragon. He was elieved to know he would survive, and be able to fight again. The need for replacemnt of parts in his leg was a concern. Doubley so that it was his left. That was the leg he braced on when performing most of his kenjutsu katta Still, the sounds of things where not too bad. They could definatley have been worse, and better. For one, he could be dead.
|
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
A look of confusion crosses Mikhail's scar etched face. "I understand not your question. A car bomb in Kobe, quiaff? That happens on the occassion, however one has not occured in the Lotus district in quite some time. Would you care to elaborate? You are speaking in riddles and thoughts, my Founder spawned mind fails to follow you. Perhaps you have been given some sort of vision . .? I know the Nova Cats have this happen to them, from time to time. Perhaps this is occuring to you."
Mikhail shrugs. "Unfortunately, I am powless when it comes to things of supernatural, or occultic significance. I am a warrior, not a mystic. Would you care to elaborate?"
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
A dream is all my friend...just a dream. Though one so vivid, it felt real" Laying back on his pillow Thomas closed his eyes a moment with a sigh. "I like not being medicated. It blurs the line between what is, and what is not far more then I would like." Muttering something in his native japanese, Thomas forced his eyes to open, and to focus again on his mentor and friend. "I am not one to hold faith in vissions, in prophecy, or the supernatural and yet, I can not push the images back into the darkness that they came from....I do not like this at all."
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
The 'skin' grafts on his arm and chest where takeing nicely, or so the doctors said. The ones on his left leg, not quite as well, but that was to be expected considering what damage was done, and what repairs had to be done. Again, so the doctors said. Fully one third of the muscles in his thigh where now artificial myomers. with electric 'nerves' spliceing them to the rest of his body so that they would act much the same as his natural muscles did. Unlike elective myomer implants, where all the muscles where replaced, these myomers did nothing to increase his strength. In fact according to the doctors, he may have only about 85% efficency from his left leg, and a noticable limp for the rest of his life. That was alright though. He could deal with that. Mikhail lived with worse, far worse. And he not only managed, he excelled as a warrior, in and out of a mech. That and inspite of haveing so many of his parts replaced, Mikhail was still very much human. He still had his mind, and more importantly to Thomas..though less then a year ago it would never have even crossed his thoughts, Mikhail still had his soul.
There it was again, thoughts on spirituality, on what makes a person human. These things haunted him. Ever since North Pier, ever since the bombed out, burnt out ruins, and a battle with a true monster. The liveing dead. A human spirit and mind trapped inside a body dead, but kept functioning by evil medicine and science. Driven mad from pain and suffering and being dead but not. Before then, Thomas was a good person, an honorable person, but with no use for faith, for religion, for the spiritual. Once he would have gone so far as to consider such things a weakness. Not now though, not after witnessing with his own eyes the pain and the horor that a soul could suffer.
And now, now that he had begun to look at things spiritual, things in him have changed. Two days ago he told Mikhail that he was not one to hold faith in the supernatural. Something no longer precisely true. Even then it was not exactly true, but with long hours alone with his thoughts he began to doubt his words more and more. What if it was more then a dream? If s, what could he do about it? More importantly, who did he know who might believe him, and not think it was something to do with the pain and the drugs?
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
Thomas is disturbed from a light sleep by the tantilizing smell of fresh Sushi and naitve Combine fruit. When he opens his eyes he sees Mikhail's lumbering shape limp in to his room, he is accompanied by Mikhail's Tikonov born fiance,' Ketjanna. She smiles warmly as they walk in. In Ketjanna's hands are bambo screened 'togo' boxes from one of the finest Japanese restaraunts in Monty, the Panda Garden.
"At first I thought I was dreaming of home," Thomas said as he pulled himself up into more of a sitting position, "but now, I am glad it is not a dream at all. Whichever of you is responsible, I thank you from the bottom of my heart." Mikhail nods to his Combine born friend as he enters. He grins looking over at the unique food boxes held by his lover. "the food was my idea, but Ketjanna knew where to get it. though I appreciate your native cuisine, it is not a favorite of mine." Ketjanna shakes her head slightly, chuckling lightly at Mikhails comments. She walks over, sets down the food on the bedside stand and leans over. Gently she kisses Thom on the forehead. "Good to see your getting better, Thomas. Mike, Luke and I have missed you." She gently caresses Thomas' bandage wrapped arm and shoulder. "From what the doctors say, you are taking well to the treatment."
"Hai, so the doctors tell me, though I unfortunatley do not know enough to tell if that is the truth, and the pain is still there, s my body is not telling me much either. Still, Already I wish to be out of here and back doing something useful for someone." Mikhail nods. "Aff, tough as a kinsman you are! If I knew not better I would say you were born from the Iron Womb of an Elemental." He chuckles. But then takes on a more serious tone. "Even the mightiest of us must rest and recover, my freeborn friend." Ketjanna nods in agreement, laughing. "Yeah, even my endosteel skulled lover needs to take time out to heal up." She sits down next to Mikhail. And rests her hand gently on the clanner's thick thigh. "I hope you enjoy the Sushi, it is freshly made. Some of the best in Montenegro, if not all of Solaris City, outside of Kobe that is."
"If you though me born an elemntal my friend, I would say you are the one in need of a doctor" Thomas siad, with a smile, and a soft chuckle,." When I ask, have you known an elemental of only five and a half feet?" Smileing he nodded to Ketjana, "Hai, I will, I know the skill of the sushi chef at the Panda" Mikhail laughs at Thomas' comment. "I was referring to your hardiness, not your stature! Not many freeborns can endure the punishment you have, or recover as quickly as you do. For one who is small, you are as tough as a Malthus!" Ketjanna again laughs at Mikhail's comment. She looks at thomas, whispering ion jest. "I think that is supposed to be a compliment, and a big one at that!" She winks at Thom.
"I would say it is my stature that allows me to heal as I do. Less of me to hit, and less to patch together after, ne?" For the first time since he ended up in here, Thomas found himself laughing. And though his chest hurt when he did, it still felt good. "Hai, from a trueborn and a true warrior, I know it is a great compliment to me." Mikhail gently pats Thomas' right leg (its the good one) nodding. "We wish to see you get well, there is no other warrior on Solaris that I would have watching my back, even if if that backside is twice your size." He chuckles. While Mikhail is talking Ketjanna serves up a small tray of sushi for Thom. The aroma is delightful. She first hands the tray to Thom, and then serves up one for herself and Mikhail. Mikhail tips his head in reverence while Ketja mutters a brief prayer over the meal. She then serves up drinks.
"And there is no other on Solaris I would rather be behind either, because your backside is twice my size." Again Thomas found himself laughing and glad to be amongst friends.though the laughter faded as he too closed his eyes for the prayer. Upon opening them he titlted his head to the side. "I did not know you where a religious person Ketjana?" The native of Tikonov nods while taking a sip of her drink. "Well, I was raised very much within the religious tradition of my family. They were Orthodox Christians, however later in life I came upon my own religious calling. I guess you could call me more Lutheran now than anything. Regardless, after all I have seen, there is no doubt that there is a higher power out there, that's for sure." Ketjanna shrugs. "Call it the Founder, God, Allah . .whatever . . All I know is that I have seen some real miracles at work, along with the tragedies. I know that Mikhail is very faithful, and what ever this 'Founder' is that he always prays too, I know it watches out for him . .that's for dman sure."
"there was a time not long ago, I would have argued with that." Thomas said softly, a sad, far away look in his dark eyes, "Haveing seen too much of hell to believe there was such a thing as heaven. Now though, I am not so certain. I was raised zen buddist, but I find myself finding it's thoughts on reincarnation and such...unsatisfying." Mikhail shrugs. "I have dealt some with those religious, because of my affinity with the Combine. However, I have never seen anything profound come of thier worship, other than internal peace. I am musn more one to put stake in a over-all life spirit, or celestial conscience. What ever it is, I believe that it watches out for those whom are loyal to it, and act out of purity and honor." Ketjanna chuckles lightly. "That is what us Christians call God, ya big big lummox." The ex-clansman looks at his fiance, frowning slightly. "Well, I am not Christian . . but indeed believe in the Founder, father of all things Clan. I also know that the Great Kerensky was indeed a spiritual warrior. What faith he followed in uncertain, but he indeed believed in some sort of 'High Purpose,' and Divine Will."
"Hia, well, I do not know. Still, I have seen to much death, to many suffering, too many fighting over faiths and other things..." Pauseing Thomas used a set of chopsticks to bring some sushi to his lips." "Still, it would be nice to have some sense of peace in these troubled time, quiaff?" Mikhail and Ketjanna both nod. Mikhail answers. "Aff, it would." Shifting gears Ketjanna changes the subject slightly. "Thom, Luke wanted us to fill you in on what I have learned regarding the rather interesting adventure you went on in North Pier last month. I have finally heard back from my sources . .about . . our 'Cyber-fiend.'After taking a bite of suchi Mikhail looks at Thomas. "Luke relayed to you what Ketjanna told him, quineg?"
"Very little of it, I am afraid. Thomas said with a shrug, "Not that much of it I expect will mean much to me. Though it may confirm some of my suspicions." Nodding to Ketjana he said, "Please, tell me what we know?"Ketjanna finishes her bite then continues. "Well, the sources of the poor man's cybernetics were mainly two different companies. One is specializes in myomer implants, sythetic replacement organs, and central nervous system research. They also do a considerable amount of research in biotechnology and engineering. This comapny is based mainly out of the CapCon, and the Chaos March.: Their name is Hang Xing Medtech." she looks at Mikhail, frowning slightly. "One of thier largest facilities is on the Chaos March world of Tall Trees." "Tall Trees." Thomas said, makeing the name almost sound like a curse, "Home of scum, villiany, and moralless mercenary commands, I know nothing of this company, but I do know Tall Trees"Ketjanna's face darkens. It is obvious she has heard the same things Thomas has about Tall Trees.
|
|
|
Lootbag Commando
Catalyst Demo Team
Posts: 11638
Borders don't mean much anymore.
|
Alesthane walks in, a small bottle of MacDoel Northern scotch in his hand. "You know, Shinyo, you've got to stay out of the paint-and-body shop here."
Shinyo winces a little at Alesthane's overtly good humor. It was a little early in the morning for Garfield's braggadacio.
Alesthane spins a chair towards himself on one leg and plops into it with aplomb. "Besides, with you in here, the people who've been messing with Nermal have been getting bolder. I had a jump jet malfunction in the Scrapyard... they wouldn't feather at all and I got well out of position, and then my gun servos dropped 20 degrees in the last fight and what should have been easy shots ended up into the wall at the Gardens. If it'd not been for the overwhelming disparity between Nermal and a stock Grasshopper, I might have been in trouble. Imagine if that'd happen against your Maiden, Bob's Ramshead, or Luke's new Champion? I've avoided all this...", Alesthane waves his hand about, taking in the hospital room, "... for now, and frankly this and the rash of injuries in the tournament makes me wonder if I shouldn't check out a Spector, go to Class E, and cal it a living. Page 24 of the Sports section's not nice, but it beats Page 13 of the Social section of the Times from hell to breakfast."
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
"If you quit though, they win, no?" Useing the controls Thomas brought his bed up into something more of a sitting position, and in spite of the painkiller drip hooked up to his arm, Thomas' eyes where quite clear, his expression cool and thoughtful. It was too early in the morning to deal with Garfield's attitude, and Thomas had, right now little in the way of patience. Far less then the ussually serene samurai was generally known for. "The names, and the mechs you mentioned, yes would be more then a match for you if you where suffering such problems. However, I for one would refuse to fight a match so uneven, and I suspect Michaels-san would be the same, and I almost certain Luke would as well." Narrowing his eyes somewhat he looked at the man across from him. "Alesthane. I consider you a worthy opponent, as well as something of a friend, but right now, if I could get out of this bed, I would rip that bottle from your hand, toss it out the window, and then promptly begin beating you senseless. You come in here, at..Kami only knows what time of the morning...have visiting hours even begun yet? With whiskey in your hand, and on your breath to bitch and moan about someone sabotageing your mech to someone who has been in the hospital for less then a week...I think...after haveing his cockpit canopy blown inwards at him followed by a PPC blast. It's not that I don't care. I do, believe me, but what in all the hells do you expect me to do about it? Go and talk to one of the Shadows that is actually working, not stuck in bed, and see if they can help, tell them I sent you, and they will help. But if you come to see me in the hospital, do it sober, and not to complain, or I'll have to tell you to come closer so I can slap you."
|
|
|
Lootbag Commando
Catalyst Demo Team
Posts: 11638
Borders don't mean much anymore.
|
"Huh? Oh. This. Shinyo, you got this one a little wrong there. I only save the home brew for celebrating good fortune, like my friend being laid up and not dead."
Alesthane fished out one of the most ornate pop-cups Shinyo had ever seen, with tightly sealing metal louvers and intricate Celtic designs.
"I spent fourteen days in a medical camp on Coventry, and another three months in a sanitarium on Polsubo. I know what hospital food does to people."
He set the popcup down on the hospital tray, and filled it halfway with the amber liquid. "I appreciate you trying to snap me out of... well, your concern is appreciated. I don't know if I'll go back to that, but as long as I'm winning in spite of the bastards, it's under control. I had to take my touch with an orderly to get it in here. That, and the cup, is in appreciation for what you tried to do. I'm going to have to go to Chereneko and Singh now, it's beyond something we warriors can handle ourselves in the bays. It's a rot, Shinyo, and I'll put pfennigs to struessel that it'll not stop with Lion City. By and by, you need to get better as it looks like the Shadows are getting busy. Enjoy the touch, or offer it to whatever gods you pray to, Shinyo, as there's a powerful force here now and before long, we'll all probably think Maeve is sane."
Mirroring the move he made when he came in, Alesthane stands and deftly spins the chair back into the corner. "You don't know how many weeks that took me to learn at the academy.", he said with a wink as he left.
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
Laughing softly Thomas sunk back onto the bed. It was good to laugh, even for only a little, but he knew Alesthane was right. It was a rot, a disease, a virus and it would spread. From one stable to the next, to the next. Unless it was dealt with. He was no doctor, not even a med-tech yet. Though that was one of the things 'light duty' was likely to involve for him. Alot of study on the medical equipment avaliable to the Shadows and how to use it. Still, he knew enough about viruses to know that they can not be stoped. No, the infected body had to kill them itself, though not always without help.
Pulling out his noteputer he began typeing up a message to send back to Galahad. Through Terry, to Rei and Dog. A surprise for Garfield to mount in places on his mech while doing routine checks. Someone skilled at sabotage would likely be able to work their way around the cameras and sensors they know about, but what of ones they don't? Ones that end up where none should be? Little fish-eye cameras and the like, watching over actuators, engine and gyro houseings. Perhaps Rei could worm her way through Lion City's security and get into their own surveliance, and get Alesthane to get acess to their work logs.
There was much work to do, and some of it he could begin setting into motion from here. Saveing the message, he didn't send it. He would give it personally to Terry when his friend and Squire came to visit next. Clearing it from the noteputers screen he began another one. Also in text. This one he would send out.
Lady Ketjana,
There was a time not long ago when I would have been loathe to use my status as an invalid to garner sympathy. But I am not above that right now. If it is not an inconvineance to you I would apreciate if you could swing by St. Andrews to visit an injured friend. I would like to ask your opinion on some things that have troubled me a little since last we spoke.That and the sushimi you brought was excelent. If Milkhail wishes to acompany you, good, if not, well all the more for we.
Tom.
|
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
Long Term Care Recovery Room 324
St. Andrews General Hospital
Montenegro, Solaris City
Monday Sep 3rd, 3067
Thomas is just getting settled into his long term care suite when there is a gentle rap at his door. He then hears Michael Kovacs call out to him. "Sir Shinyo, it is Miss Petrovsky. Shall I let her in? Sir Mikhail is not with her."
"Of course Squire, let her in!" Commands Thomas.
The door opens and Ketjanna Walks in. Her warm, loving eyes look over at Thomas. She walks up to him, sets down a breakfast tray of traditional Japaese fruits and breakfast pastries, and takes aseat next to his bed. She looks around smiling warmly. "Looks like they got you some slightly better accomodations Thomas. More room, more furniture, and a full fledge tridee set. Nice."
She gets out the simple, yet traditional breakfast foods and serves Thomas. Then she serves herself. After saying a quick prayer Kejanna gently strokes Tom's arm. "Mike is busy working in the Sim center today, he's got his match this week and its bound to be a tough one. Pillagers are not easy 'mechs to beat, and his opponent is a tough one." She takes a sip of juice. "Regardless, he can't be here. Fortunately I was able to clear my schedule this morning. Sorry we never finished our discussion. What's on your mind, love?"
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
"I too am sorry we did not finish our discussion. Which is exactly what was on my mind." Pauseing Thomas took a sip of his tea and let out a deep sigh. "That, my friend, is the one thing I miss the most from my life in the combine. A good cup of real tea, but I did not ask you to come in order to discuss drinks, I asked you to come so we could, if you do not mind, discuss matters of religion." Closeing his eyes, he set down his cup, takeing a deep breath before speaking. "There has been something that has troubled me for a while...since my second match of the grand tournament." Of course Ketja would know the fight he spoke of. It was all over the news, mostly in the scandal rags, when he leaned the head off his opponents mech with what could easily have been viewed as a 'well aimed' shot with his heavy class 20 autocanon, even before the mech fell, he knew there was no chance of survival. the head, the whole cockpit was just gone.
"My work with the Shadows is something I am proud of, and proud to do, but my time in the arenas...is it right?" Shakeing his head softly, he turned to look at Ketjana. "My own life, to me has long since been...unimportant. Death never concerned me, I never enjoyed hurting people in my days as a mercenary, but it was always something that had to be done, but in the stadiums, still, my own life is without much meaning. I have no familly, and only a few close friends to miss me if I die, but that is not always true of those I face." Once again he paused and closed his eyes, this time, Ketjana was sure it was not in thought, but in his own stern reolve to show no pain. Even still the first hints of unshed tears could be seen building under his lashes. "I've killed, and for what? Money that I do not need, celeberaty that I do not want. Until the other day I had no one to ask this question to, but now I need to ask. Is there such a thing as forgiveness for one such as I?"
|
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
Ketjanna shakes her head slightly as Thomas lays out his soul. She frowns slightly looking at Thom with warm, compassionate eyes. They are filled with sorrow, and mourning. "Thomas, I am sorry. You are facing a dilemma that others have faced, I'm just not sure if what they'e gone through is on such a sipiritual level, but know others have faced it. Not being a mechwarrior, I don't know all of what you are feeling. However, I do know that the mere fact that you are feeling the plight of this loss, and your sin, means you are a good man, and are indeed worthy of forgiveness."
The beautiful, dark haired native of Tikonov looks off, pondering, reaching for the right words to say. Eventually she looks back to Thomas, her dark eyes are filled with love, and compassion. "As far as the spiritual side of things, Tom, I am definitely NOT perfect, and am indeed no priest. I am, however, resolute in my faith and know what I believe. I also know I've seen the hand of what I view is the 'Almighty' in my life." She chuckles lightly. "I don't know if I am the right person to talk to you about spirituality, but since you asked I will do my best. I'll tell you what I believe, and you can take it for what its worth."
Ketjanna takes a moment to collect her thoughts, and for some reason say a silent prayer. She then reaches over and lightly caresses Tom's arm. "Thomas, you must understand, I am a Christian, so what I'll tell you about spirituality is going to be from that point of view. I am also no 'Holy Roller', or preacher, so am NOT an expert. However, I do know God. I also know the grace, forgiveness and sence of peace that comes from having Him, and his touch, in my life."
Ketjanna looks down, she mutters more to herself than Tom, "How can I say this without sound 'preachy' . . Father . . Give me strength and wisdom . ." She then looks back to Tom. "Thomas, you have guilt for some thing you have done. We all do, and the fact is that NONE of us are perfect, and we all make mistakes. The reason you feel bad, like all of us do, is that you have a spiritual center in you that calls out to you. All of us have it, whether we listen to it or not. Some would call it our 'Soul.' It is the eternal life-spirit that dwels within all of us. However, whenever we do bad things, or as the Bible thumpers call it . .'Sin' . . this tugs at our Soul, once again marking us as impure."
She takes a drink then continues. Thomas can tell Ketja is speaking directly from the heart. "You see, as us Christians believe, 'God' is a god of forgiveness and love, not neccessarily one of Judgement and Damnation, regardless of what SOME fruitcakes would have people believe. It the scripture it tells us that none of us can be perfect, or were ever expected to be. Instead, we are just expected to love Him, and his 'son,' Jesus."
Ketjanna holds up a hand, seeing Thomas' shift in mood. "Now I know this all sounds preachy, but hear me out. See, true Christianity is unlike almost any other religion. Most religions preach 'Works and Deeds,' stating you are saved, and redeemed through you good deeds, but in turned can be damned by your bad ones."
Thomas nods, understanding the Eastern teachings of Karma, Budhism, and Shintoism. "Go on . ." he says.
"Well," continues Ketja, "If we were saved by deeds alone, we'd all be done for. Cause I don't know one single 'perfect' person, do you?" She smiles at Thomas, already knownig the answer.
"Uh . .no . .can't say that I do." Answers Tom. "However I am sure many others have been much closer than I."
Ketjanna nods. "True, but even the most riteous person has moments of weakness, or the occational impure thought. Regardless, the point that I'm getting to Tom is that we are NOT saved, or can earn our way into Heaven, through our deeds! It is our Love for God, and His forgiveness and Grace, that allows us passage into Heaven. Understaning this one principle is the hardest concept in Christianity. So many folks get it wrong."
She finishes her breakfast, washes it down with a spot of tea, and then continues. "You see Tom . .WE have more trouble with forgiveness and grace than God ever does. WE are the humans, not Him. Holding grudges, having guilt, and struggling with redemption is a Human condition, NOT a Godly one." Ketja shakes her head. "It is US that can't forgive, not Him."
Ketjanna reaches out and grasps Tom's hand. "If forgiveness is what you seek, then all you need do is ask, in heart felt prayer. It will be given. If you still have guilt, then it is you that needs to forgive, yourself. However, when it comes to Godliness, and true riteousness, it is our HEART that God looks at . .not our deeds. Hell, if all He ever looked at was our deeds we'd all be screwed."
|
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
Ahh, and that Ketjanna, is why I wished to speak with you, in regards to such matters, and not a priest of some form or another. Certainly, it is as you say, no matter how righteous a person is, they all have fallen short of perfection. Yet, I fear a priest..of any religion..would be harder to aproach, especially since I can not trust them the way I do you, I do not know them, but I do know you." Chuckleing softly for a moment he added, "besides anyone who can love Mikhail is as close to a saint as any human can be." Closeing his eyes once more he took a deep breath, "you give me much to think on. Still, well I think, why do you not tell me all else there is to know on our enhanced friend? Hopefully something you know for a fact can help confirm something I believe as the truth."
|
|
|
Captain
Posts: 3091
PC - Mad Maeve / RP GM - Solaris VII (retired)
|
Ahh, and that Ketjanna, is why I wished to speak with you, in regards to such matters, and not a priest of some form or another. Certainly, it is as you say, no matter how righteous a person is, they all have fallen short of perfection. Yet, I fear a priest..of any religion..would be harder to aproach, especially since I can not trust them the way I do you, I do not know them, but I do know you."
Ketjanna nods. “Thanks Tom, hopefully I didn’t sound too ‘preachy, that was not my intent. I’ll have you know, any time you need to talk just let me know. I love Mikhail dearly, however he sometimes has trouble understanding certain things. So, just let me know when you need some company, or a loving ear.” She winks at him. Chuckleing softly for a moment he added, "besides anyone who can love Mikhail is as close to a saint as any human can be." Closeing his eyes once more he took a deep breath, "you give me much to think on. Still, well I think, why do you not tell me all else there is to know on our enhanced friend? Hopefully something you know for a fact can help confirm something I believe as the truth."
Shifting gears, Ketja pulls out her noteputer and retrieves the files they were discussing the other day. “Ok . .back to business.” She skims ahead slightly. “Alright, I told you about the Hang Xing connection, now for the other link. This one refers to the company that manufactured the cyborg’s bonelacings, combat enhancements and sensory systems. This company is actually a Lyran owned one. It is called Pentax BioCorp. Pentax is a huge, underground company that specializes in all sorts of cutting edge research, bio-engineering, and government contracts. They have offices here on Solaris, and guess what . .are the current contract holders for those bastards . .the Sons of Vanhel.” Thomas’s face darkens. “Honorless scum.” Ketjanna nods. “Agreed. Also, like Huang Xing, Pentax has some holdings in the Chaos March, though they lie closer to the FWL / Lyran side. Most of their operation, however, is deeper into the Lyran interior. They have been around for years, if not centuries. However, there has recently been a lot of upheaval on the company’s board of directors. Some of the main shakers and movers on the board are now hardliner Steiner fanatics, folks that do not have a history of playing well with others.” Ketjanna scans through some more notes on her PDA. Finding the file she is looking for, she looks up to Tom. “You may be interested to know that two of the senior board members currently reside on, or recently visited Solaris VII. They have also been known to frequent certain . . Lyran extremist locations.” She shakes her head slightly frowning. “You know of one such place. It’s the lovely little Xolaran establishment , the Double Eagle.” |
|
|
Lieutenant Colonel
Posts: 8372
Zero G is good for you
|
"Ah yes the Double Eagle. Next time, I think I will arrange the bomb to go off before the bomb squad arrives to deal with it. The people at that particular establishment give their government and their people a very bad name." Pauseing he tilted his head to the side a bit. " You said they have holdings near the Free Worlds side of the Chaos March, and Hang Xing also has operations within the Chaos march? A very tentative connection at best, but I saw one more thing there in our poor cyborg friends lairing place. Something else with tentative ties to the Chaos March. He had...souveniers of a sort. Corpses dressed still in the uniforms they wore in life. Some where military, most likely the SoV the other where quite obviously Word of Blake. Of course this could just be some of my own paranoia, but I know the Blakists have been funding a number of projects in the Chaos March."
|
|