Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/03(Mon)19:50 No. 514386 ID: 9f5a86
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My name is Aiden Schar. I am currently stationed in the Upper City of Primordia, the one place that anyone should be more than grateful to be assigned to. It's a real scramble working in functional. Assignments, relocations, rotations - it must be a mess over there. I'm glad to have been here as long as I have, though. Rotation could happen any day now. I try to enjoy every minute of my time here. I'm currently in the barracks of the main base, shared by the militia and police forces. I myself am a police officer, and duty doesn't begin for another couple hours.

That having been said...what to do?

Tell us about any unsolved cases, potential romances, and/or lifelong dreams/goals you may have.

if you're looking for something to do you could grab a bit to eat and see if you could find a news feed anywhere maybe see if anything other then crap is on for once.

So what kind of work does a functional police officer do?

What's up with the cyber-jaw?

Does your cyber-jaw have any unique-qualities, tell us about that.
Is it mandatory for those in the police force or did you get in an accident?
What CAN you do to pass the time in your barracks? From what I gather barracks aren't built to be the most entertaining of places, take a quick trip outside? Cold morning air might make you a little more alert seen as though you have no plans of sleeping again.
Also grab a hot beverage.

Take a shower probably.
Get some cereal or waffles.
Watch some tv

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/03(Mon)22:49 No. 514418 ID: 9f5a86
File 137032499350.png - (131.63KB , 800x600 , 01-003.png )

> Tell us about any unsolved cases, potential romances, and/or lifelong dreams/goals you may have.

I waddle over to the kitchen for some reason, trying to collect my thoughts.

Unsolved cases...The occasional robbery or rare murder...there isn't much to say about the crime levels of the Upper City. That's another reason I've come to love the place. As for romance, that's really out of the question, and it has been for some years. My sex drive has hit an all time low since this sleep depravation problem started to show its ugly head too.

> grab a bit to eat

I brew some coffee instead.

I don't have any long-term goals...excluding completing my term in this career, but that's a given. I just want to do my job, hopefully stay out of the "lower" areas of Primordia whenever I can, and grab a check.

> Does your cyber-jaw have any unique-qualities, tell us about that.

Oh jeez. I don't even want to talk about that. Serious embarrassment that was. This cyber-jaw? It's like a very strange cast. There are these microneedles or some shit that puncture your skin and...God I don't even want to think about it. They are cooking up some really crazy stuff up here in the Upper City - so insane that my dumb ass won't be able to comprehend it. All I know is I've been issued it since the stupid accident and it's doing its magic.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/03(Mon)22:50 No. 514419 ID: 9f5a86
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These barracks aren't actually all that boring. It's quite fancy. I head to the day room, sit on the couch, and turn on the television, coffee in hand. I stare at the brilliant shine of the screen, radiating in the darkness in a way that I felt I was staring at the sun itself. I was hypnotized, watching the news lady yap about the same shit I've heard about not long ago. Innovations, renovations, events, weather. All this seems to fly over my head. "The Island that Reached the Heavens" they sometimes call this place. If the Upper City had broken through the firmament itself, I didn't take notice. I keep my chin up and try not to look down.

An hour passes pretty quickly and my eyes start to hurt. Good progress.

> Take a shower probably.

I really don't feel up to it. I've taken one last night for some reason.

> take a quick trip outside

Nah. I've become way too comfy.

Quick question this might be important for your big fancy city. Do you have any unhappy underclasses and/or immigration problems that might cause resentment/upheaval of your entire damn lifestyle?

OH hey, this is a Fidchell quest.

so how much longer until your shift starts and how long have you been having sleeping problems. Got any friends or anything or no not really.

Have a quick fap or two. That helps most people sleep. And don't tell me that you won't get off on doing so in proximity to your bunkmates.

How many others do you share this Barracks with?
Are you particular close to any of them or is it just a strictly working relationship type of deal.
If so locate your best buddy and annoy him 'til he wakes up? Well as long as it's a decent time, what time is it?
What's the crime-rate like on the 'Island that reached the heavens'?

>>514459
My bet is they didn't get to Heaven on good behavior.
...
but that's mostly just because I wanted to make some joke like that.

Anyone else up at this hour? Like some poor bastard on night duty in case there is an emergency or something.
We could go bother him to pass the time, though you might want to dress up first.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/04(Tue)07:42 No. 514484 ID: 9f5a86
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> so how much longer until your shift starts and how long have you been having sleeping problems. Got any friends or anything or no not really.

Just about a little more than an hour and I should start getting ready. All my couple friends are currently stationed a level below, in the Middle. That's where you DON'T want to be.

The sleeping problems have been hitting me since a couple months ago. I've tried to describe them to my doctor as being a mild case, because if it were to be serious, that would link to something that could get me in deep shit, especially since I'm in the force. You know what, that reminds me of something.

> Do you have any unhappy underclasses and/or immigration problems that might cause resentment/upheaval of your entire damn lifestyle?

I stand up and...

...

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/04(Tue)07:42 No. 514485 ID: 9f5a86
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Them. The feranthros. Up here I didn't want to think about the festering pits bubbling just under my nose. In the Upper City, you almost never see a feranthro...and if you do, they are nothing more than a highly regarded slave, and that was the most they could expect living their unfortunate lives in such an unfortunate body. They reside in the deepest pits of Primorida, the Bottom. You could almost compare this whole place to Heaven and Hell.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/04(Tue)07:42 No. 514486 ID: 9f5a86
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I turn off the TV and amble back to my bunk. I rummage through my backpack slipped under the bed.

> What's the crime-rate like on the 'Island that reached the heavens'?

Primordia has a very polarizing statistic in the midst of the three layers. In the Upper city, we don't hear much. The economy is pretty stable and employment isn't an issue. Then there are the lower layers. Most cases down there concern a recent attack or protest or whatever. Every time, it's a feranthro.

> How many others do you share this Barracks with?

There are about ten or so officers sharing this certain section of the Barracks. The place is huge, housing hundreds of us. Maybe even thousands, I don't know. Most of the guys here are fresh meat. As a sergeant I should be making a good example. I should be leading these kids the right direction. Integrity, honor...that sort of junk. I'm a pretty bad example. For example, there's this drug we all have to take, the Anthros that is. It is issued by our government and apparently keeps our advanced senses and physical state in check. It keeps us from being "them." I don't know about the intelligence of the feranthros, but this drug, Astoga, seems to offer us a superior status over them or something. This is what the higher ups would ding me for. Not taking this would cause all sorts of nasty things to happen to an Anthro.

I've skipped a couple doses. Why? Well, I don't really know. There doesn't seem to be any valid reason NOT to take this, but there's something weird about it. I can't put a finger on it. I'm supposed to inject this every morning.

Hrrrm... So, drug that supposedly shields you from being a feranthro, but you haven't been taking it in the last few days? Any noted side effects from not taking it?
Not quite as sharp mentally, or the opposite happening?
I'm thinking it might be a placebo, and you've gotten suspicious of it because of your sleep issue...
You talked like having a major health issue would be really bad before, why is that?

Hrrrm... So, drug that supposedly shields you from being a feranthro, but you haven't been taking it in the last few days? Any noted side effects from not taking it?
Not quite as sharp mentally, or the opposite happening?
I'm thinking it might be a placebo, and you've gotten suspicious of it because of your sleep issue...
You talked like having a major health issue would be really bad before, why is that?

So does this mean you were born a feranthro and we're given the drug and in turn became anthropomorphic or is feranthro(pomorphism?) a type of contagious disease?
Are there any cases you've actually worked on involving an anthro devolving to a feranthro or is it just some widely spread rumor?
I'm going to assume health issues are bad because others could take it as a sign you've stopped taking the drugs and are becoming a feranthro; well as long as not taking the drugs has actual adverse affects other than preventing devolving into a feranthro.

>cyber jaw, very strange cast
So... that means it's a medical device you can eventually remove, and not a prosthetic or permanent augmentation?

>>514485
Racism ain't cool, dude. Ever think that maybe the reason they cause trouble and stir up shit is because they're treated as nothing more than slaves, at best? I bet you might have ended up being a rebellious little shit if you'd been treated that way your whole life.

>there's this drug we all have to take, the Anthros that is.
That implies there are non-anthros, who don't have to take the drug. That so? What kind of things inhabit this city?

well have you noticed anything different about yourself since you stopped taking the drug or do you feel more or less the same?

>>514486
Your society seems to despise the sick, unwell, infirm, and mentally sick. So, do they terminate them? State sanctioned genocide against the ill? Sounds like people can become or mutate into feranthros too, from what your implying.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/04(Tue)11:32 No. 514531 ID: 9f5a86
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> So... that means it's a medical device you can eventually remove, and not a prosthetic or permanent augmentation?

It's removable, but it'll be a while before I can do anything to it.

> Any noted side effects from not taking it?

I have not noticed anything, and the hard time I have sleeping doesn't have to do with it either. I thought maybe there was something in the drug that my body didn't like. I only stopped using it very recently, and I've had this problem for months. I feel uncomfortable when sleeping - no night terrors or nightmares or shit like that, although I sometimes hear voices. I also seem to be talking and thinking to myself a lot lately, like right now.

> placebo

This wouldn't be the first time I questioned the system. No doubt there something going on, but like I said before, I'm just trying to do my term and then live the dream...whatever that may be. Have a kid or something, I dunno.

> I'm going to assume health issues are bad because others could take it as a sign you've stopped taking the drugs and are becoming a feranthro; well as long as not taking the drugs has actual adverse affects other than preventing devolving into a feranthro.

Exactly. Not taking the drug does tend to follow with wonderful things like mental deterioration, nasty transformations, and all sorts of other stuff, but then again they could be making it up as well. Maybe it takes a while for the ailments to kick in? I don't know if I want to find out. The syringe still sits lazily in my hand.

> Your society seems to despise the sick, unwell, infirm, and mentally sick.

The higher ups don't despise those that are different...well not intensely at least. There's no genocidal bullshit going on, and quite frankly, aside from their violent outbursts, I myself don't really have a problem with the feranthros. I'm kinda interested in them, even if I've had to sit through the bulk of their anger a couple of times myself. They don't stop though. The protests and riots keep happening and the government doesn't just drive them off the place altogether, and I can't help but wonder why. What are the feranthros even doing down there other than wallowing in mud?

> That implies there are non-anthros, who don't have to take the drug. That so? What kind of things inhabit this city?

The Anthros are us, with our advanced minds and our plantigrade locomotion. The mere others are the feranthros, who resemble moreso our very ancestors. They are primal, incomplex. For obvious reasons, they are not required to take the drug.

If there are no screenings or such to monitor people taking or not taking the drug then keep skipping doses. It will be like an experiment and the other people in the barracks will be the control group, unless some of them are skipping their doses too...

Interesting situation you got there bub, either take the drug that essentially defines the classes of your society or maybe turn into a feral animal by not taking the drug. Social issues aside does the police department do surprise blood tests to make sure people are taking their meds or can you get away with it because your fellows will assume you're not that "crazy"?

In the meantime you might want to take a look at any information about fereanthros, we might learn something even if that information is sanitized by the government.

if he drug is the only thing keeping people sane, then why wasn't everyone insane before it was invented?

>There are these microneedles or some shit that puncture your skin and...
wait. when did they put it on? i'm guessing a couple months ago?

I suggest you just take your dosage for now.
By any chance how often do you see others from different Barracks or divisions? It would be a good idea to find out how often they're meant to take their dosages, If it differs from yours then I suppose there's room for suspicion.
Also for a guy who doesn't seem to be in the best of shape any-more damn you're hung!

I would propose skipping the next dose just to stir things up.

Have you been taking this drug your whole life, or is this something you started doing when you joined the force?

Is there a chance your non-compliance will be noticed and reported by the rookies you're supposed to be watching, here? Have you been making sure empty and discard needles so the count isn't high?

If you're just trying to survive here, whether you should take it or not is a direct function of if you think you can get away not taking it.

There's also the conflicting issues of it being stupid not to trust proven, reliable medical treatments- and the fact you really don't trust the organization providing you that proof.

tl;dr- don't take it if you think you can keep getting away with it.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/04(Tue)23:26 No. 514623 ID: 9f5a86
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> Social issues aside does the police department do surprise blood tests to make sure people are taking their meds or can you get away with it because your fellows will assume you're not that "crazy"?

Thankfully the only time we ever get blood tests is if there is a problem they find with you at a physical health assessment. The only "surprise" bodily fluid extraction we are accustomed to are piss tests.

> In the meantime you might want to take a look at any information about fereanthros, we might learn something even if that information is sanitized by the government.

There is virtually nothing to look up and research. No books or anything, and all the research institutes have restricted entry.

> if he drug is the only thing keeping people sane, then why wasn't everyone insane before it was invented?

It's not a matter of sanity. What I meant by deterioration was more or less a "devolution" to the state of mind of the common feranthro.

> wait. when did they put it on? i'm guessing a couple months ago?

Oh no, about a few months ago. I doubt this thing is doing anything to me as far as sleep is concerned. Haven't had any problems for a while after putting it on, but yeah, I really did mess it up.

I decide to put away the syringe again. I feel more nervous the more I put this off, but surely if anything were to come up, I'd just go right back to it. This can be like a little fun science experiment. The government doesn't really monitor our usage. If we turn, they act pretty quick to...take care of anyone who shows any severe symptoms. Monitoring everyone would be a pain for them I'm sure. It's not that they can't afford to lose any members of the force, and feranthros wouldn't really dare try to sneak in and do the whole espionage thing. If someone really wanted to end their existence that badly, I doubt turning into one of the feranthros is high up on their bucket list.

Time passes by and I feel like I've gone into a sort of trance sitting on my bunk and staring through the wall. Before I know it, my PDA beeps. I get out my uniform and start to dress up, installing my Identity Chip. I check my PDA and it's a message from the Chief. I already know this is going to turn out well.

"Sgt. Schar, report to my office as soon as you gear up." In other words, you have five minutes to get your ass in my office. I should be shitting myself, but these sleepless nights have slightly numbed any emotions I might have had. I'm actually feeling kinda hungry though.

think you could grab something on your way to his office? If so grab something you can eat on the go like toast or a doughnut or something.

Yes grab some toast to eat on the way, you must travel at a slow jog and hold at-least one piece of toast in your mouth by the corner.
Let's get this chief business over and done with before we muse over any more feranthro stuff.
Are you issued weapons? Will you be taking one with you and what is there available?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/05(Wed)08:35 No. 514655 ID: 9f5a86
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I heave on my heavy armored jacket, make a quick piece of toast, and descend down the stairwell, to the first floor where the main offices are as well as the armory. I down the toast pretty quickly, hoping I don't run into anyone important while I move. I stop in front of the Chief's door and knock.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/05(Wed)08:36 No. 514656 ID: 9f5a86
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"Sir?"

"What's wrong? You deaf, Sergeant?" the Chief says. "The Middle City. You've been assigned there in emergence. A convoy will be here to pick you up in about an hour. I need you to pack up and prepare yourself."

This is quite a surprise, but at the same time not really. Even remotely thinking about the Middle City would've yielded something like this. I asked for it. Still, what else can I really say?

Sigh internally, give a yessir, wait to be dismissed, and then go pack.

well arighty then guess we should go pack and get ready to leave.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/05(Wed)12:16 No. 514679 ID: 9f5a86
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I sigh internally, already foreseeing the struggles ahead. An emergence assignment usually means shit went down and they need more experienced guys to get down there and lend a hand, and I can already guess what exactly occurred.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/05(Wed)12:16 No. 514680 ID: 9f5a86
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I pack up my duffel bag and assault rifle and head out. Someone's down there waiting for me. The scrawny fox, whiz boy extraordinaire, Mel.

"Aiden! Aiden, thank God I caught up!" he says excitedly. This kid was not only a programs manager for the force in this area, but he's done a good deal for the militia. He's a real code freak. Very good with computers and technology. He used to work in the research institute, but he had to move since he was always conducting very dangerous and lengthy experiments there, most of them his own personal little projects.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/05(Wed)12:16 No. 514681 ID: 9f5a86
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"I have to go, Mel," I say.

"No, no wait. This'll be quick!" Mel pulls out some coins from his pocket. "You won't believe how much of this I found just walking back from the mini-shop. It's amazing how many people just leave their currency for anyone to pick up!"

"Um, alright? Good for you," I say, feigning interest. Mel scratches the back of his neck nervously.

"I mean uh...I just wanted to let you know. You know I've upgraded all my Vendors, right?" Ah, that's right. Mel's also put up his own little vending machines all over the place. As long as the weapons are approved by the heads and they are being sold by a licensed dealer (which he is), I can use anything if I, God forbid, ever had to engage in a sweep.

"Yeah," I respond. Mel lights up.

"Sweet! Recently I've been doing some serious touch-ups. If you're ever interested or need anything, whether it be food or things to kill with, be sure to check out what I got!"

Might be worth it to check out the vendors, see if there is coffee or some stimulants for sale.

Also don't freak out about the little dudes trying to escape from Mels ears, you are probably just hallucinating from the sleep deprivation.

seeing how you're going down to the middle city that might be useful if you can get a hold of him once your there otherwise if this is one of those buy no or not at all sort of deals if you have the time see what he has on hand and we'll go from there.

Does Mel have any contacts in the Middle City that could help you get your hands on "specialized equipment" should the worst happen? What are you expecting to find over in Middle City?

Thank Mel, you'll be sure to check them if you need anything. His things make it to the middle city yet?

>vendors for eatables and kill-things-with-ables
Hmm. Before we go shopping, what do we already have in terms of food and weapons? And how much disposable income you got at your disposal.

>It's amazing how many people just leave their currency for anyone to pick up!
...I'm not sure if that's a circuitous way of saying he was collecting the earning from his vendors, or that he's a pickpocket.

Is that it? We would have noticed he upgraded the vendors if he didn't tell us anyway, so there's obviously something else he wants to tell you...

Maybe he has a crush on you? Is that it? That doesn't seem to important to say before you leave, and that's all I can come up with.

Is Mel wearing some kind of flip-down welding glasses, or are they funny eyebrow glasses?

Ask to buy the funny eyebrow glasses.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/06(Thu)08:31 No. 514816 ID: 9f5a86
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> Thank Mel, you'll be sure to check them if you need anything. His things make it to the middle city yet?

"Thanks, Mel. You got any of those Vendors in the Middle City?"

"Yeah! They're in many places throughout Primordia now! Well, except for..you know...that place."

"I get it," I say. "I'll be heading out now."

"Take care! Be careful, okay?" Mel shouts to me as I depart the building.

> Does Mel have any contacts in the Middle City that could help you get your hands on "specialized equipment" should the worst happen? What are you expecting to find over in Middle City?

If things should go wrong, I think Mel would take it upon himself to help me out, whether that be discounts or even bypassing the price meter temporarily. He seems to really like me, so I don't have any worries going to him for aid.

The Middle City is the main grounds of the working class. Simple Anthro folk that just work for a living. There is a higher concentration of feranthros in that area, but they aren't just free to roam around. They are slaves and probably always will be. The feranthros reside and do what they wish in the deepest part of the city, and I don't really like to think about that.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/06(Thu)08:31 No. 514817 ID: 9f5a86
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> Before we go shopping, what do we already have in terms of food and weapons?

I don't have any food on me at the moment. Dining facilities down there should be sufficient. I can always get my own food if I want as well, and there are plenty of markets down in the Middle City. I'm currently equipped with a simple Visage A3 assault rifle, attachments including a retractable stock. I could probably buy more of those attachments at one of the Vendors in the future or even a different weapon. The weapons department cooks up all sorts of weird shit, some things that could even be considered barbaric.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/06(Thu)08:31 No. 514818 ID: 9f5a86
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I head into the convoy and drop my bags. There are two more Anthros in here, a soldier and a rookie cop. I notice the newbie is looking incredibly nervous.

"Make sure you guys have all your baggage in the vehicle. We're heading out," a voice says over an intercom, lined with soft static. We eventually drive off. The rookie glues his eyes to me.

"S-sergeant, this is my first time. Do you know what happened down there? What sort of things go on in that place?" he asks.

All we know that its emergency assignment and that is all we need to know. When faced with a situation you don't understand just accept it as it is and wait for orders.

>supplies
Just an assault rifle? No sidearm? That's kind of weird for a cop. And if this is more of a soldiering kind of outfit, I would have expected a knife in your gear, too.

And yeah, you can probably count on your assigned post providing food, but there's nothing wrong with having slow to spoil emergency rations amid your gear.

>Do you know what happened down there? What sort of things go on in that place?
Tell him you don't know what went bad this time, but otherwise try and reassure him about what does go on in that place. (I mean, don't lie about what the risks are, but he's probably heard worse than it really is).

>>514818
People probably died or got injured, admittedley. Just relax kid, it's not the lower city. Stay smart and careful, and he'll be as safe as any cop in the world. Middle City sounds only slightly worse than most cities, but probably only because of the current political climate. If one thing changes or another about the issues, the crime rate will probably drop.

If he's really worried about dying or getting hurt, well that just what cops have to risk. It can happen just the same in the Upper City, everyone's just more quiet about it. There's still some crime there, and sometimes cops die. It's just the risks, and they're just a little higher the lower you go. Which is why you stay smart and safe. Just follow protocol, that's what it's there for.

tell him he's probably just going to face your typical crime BS. Things are a little more... active in the middle city but keep calm and play it smart and you'll come out in one piece.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/06(Thu)13:00 No. 514843 ID: 9f5a86
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> Just an assault rifle? No sidearm? That's kind of weird for a cop. And if this is more of a soldiering kind of outfit, I would have expected a knife in your gear, too.

Indeed. It is kinda dumb that they don't issue us this equipment. I guess they expect us to cash out if we really wanted the extra firepower. Either way, I'll be able to get more at a Vendor.

> And yeah, you can probably count on your assigned post providing food, but there's nothing wrong with having slow to spoil emergency rations amid your gear.

True. Regardless, I don't foresee being stranded anywhere anytime soon, but with my luck, who knows?

I turn my attention to the kid and say, "Probably some injured or killed, but all we really know is that this is an emergency, and we do what we are told in any situation. No questions asked. Understand?"

The rookie nods. I add, "As members of the force, we face risks one time or another. Just be prepared at all times, act smart, and follow protocol. Got it?" He nods again. The militia soldier sitting next to him leans over.

"Yeah, listen to the Sergeant. After all, he knows more about following protocol than anyone else. WE'LL take care of the big baddies. You just sit back, stare at the sky, wait to be called over for investigation, then go back. Maybe you'll get an office one day, huh?" The soldier is obviously smug, giving me a belittling eye a few times.

ignore the solder, it's not worth starting a fight over some loud mouth prick.

How long is this little trip anyways?

Oh, what a surprise, the smug soldier thinks he's better than cops or rookies and is throwing needles your way. Like we didn't except that.

Don't raise to his bait, it's nowhere near worth the trouble.

> he knows more about following protocol than anyone else
Although that hits suspiciously close to home, what with the not drug taking.

How does the chain of command work when police and militia are mixed together? Does a commanding officer of the militia have authority over you? May want to go over how that works with the rookie to make sure he knows who he's taking orders from.

Well, he is the soldier boy, he signed up to kill. We just signed to keep peace. We both serve a separate purpose, and we serve them and there it is cowboy. Simple as that. It's best to keep shit simple.

>>514843
I'm jealous that he gets the good body-armor.

Ignore that guy, he's being predictably provocative.
Being the soldier he also has an increased chance of death compared to you and the rookie, being in the front lines and all.
Try and let the rookie know that once your out of earshot of the soldier-douche.
As long as he doesn't realise he's going to be in the same situation as the soldier shortly anyways.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/07(Fri)09:40 No. 515004 ID: 9f5a86
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> ignore the solder, it's not worth starting a fight over some loud mouth prick.

I ignore the smug bastard, and thankfully he doesn't say another word. I didn't want him riling up the new guy.

We make our descent through winding roads and tight paths, the transition from the upper city to the middle quite evident by the progressive disappearance of endless towers of shiny metal. What replaces it is now a diverse collection of sod, rocks, scrap metal, and wood. The transition was like stepping out of a five-star hotel and into a downtrodden, insanitary network of slums. People here are more humble, honest working folk. It's a shame they have to be in the midst of all the violence, sometimes being caught in the crossfire or, even worse, becoming a target themselves.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/07(Fri)09:41 No. 515005 ID: 9f5a86
File 137062327033.png - (278.54KB , 800x600 , 01-020.png )

We pass through more winding dirt roads until we finally get to the entry control point, where we will officially be in the Middle. Unfortunately, it looks like our cozy trip will be cut short. This must be where the action took place. Rows upon rows of bystanders look toward the scene while police and militia scout the area. It's a mess.

"We won't be able to pass," the intercom voice speaks out. "Luckily the base is not very far off now, so you'll have to walk the rest of the way."

Odd that individual members of several different corps are being thrown together into this. That is usually a recipe for disaster. Are you going to have to work closely with the militia guy?

Well, great. Form up a marking order, have keep an eye out for trouble.

>>515007
I think it's more they're all being redeployed at the same time. They won't necessarily be working together.

make sure your gun is ready to use and then head off to the base, just keep your eyes peeled and don't slow down if you don't have to.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/08(Sat)11:46 No. 515304 ID: 9f5a86
File 137071717570.png - (279.10KB , 800x600 , 01-021.png )

I pack up my things and equip my rifle. One look at the debris and crater in the middle of the control point gives me a thought on what might have happened.

I leave the vehicle, then the rookie, and then the soldier. The soldier gives the rookie a hefty back pat and says, "You stay alert, little guy. You never know who might be walking around with a bomb up their ass." He walks away to join the other soldiers patrolling the area. The rookie proceeds to follow me around like a lost kitten.

I walk past the crater, watching my step with all the rocks and metal scattered around. I thought I could see a piece of a brain here and there.

A voice comes from behind, "Hey!" A female dog ambles toward us. "You the bodies they sent over for replacement?"

"It seems that way," I respond.

"About damn time. It's a hot mess, Sergeant. The name's Inspector Massey. As you can probably tell, someone got their hands on an explosive. Witnesses claim it was a feranthro. How they manage to cook something like that up in their little shithole is beyond me. Look, the militia is getting very hands-on with the feranthros in the area, but you watch your ass. We've never seen them capable of something like this before."

>>515304
Sounds like a feranthro sympathizer (haha) gave them a bomb, or someone who pretends to be a sympathizer is manipulating them for some nefarious purpose. They also could have literally found it lying around somewhere?

What kind of explosive? Are their hostages at risk, or is the bomb too damn big to simply get civilians away from?

did the witnesses enplane how big the bomb was?
It sounds like a big blast (can't really see the creator so I'm just guessing) or even what it looked like? what I'm getting at here is did it look professionally made or did it look like a cheap piece of crap? I'm trying to find out if they bought it or made it. Either way it might help if we look for known arms dealers in the area to see if we can't find out who might have sold the feranthros a bomb, and even if they didn't sale them a bomb the feranthros had to get the materials from someone.

>>515304
Okay, so now what?
You need us to do something? Let's do it.
Maybe there's feranthro sympathizers that got them this stuff, that or it's just the political spectrum making witnesses paranoid and clouding what they think would be a normal anthro into a feranthro. How much news has the witnesses been watching? We can figure out probabilities of that being the truth from that alone, as well as if we learn their demographics.

Duly noted. Thanks for the warning.

What do they need you doing? (If she outranks you, you're asking for orders. If she's the same or lower rank, you're offering to help, because you ain't got anything better to do than walk to HQ anyways).

now see, was it a feranthro that made the bomb or was it just wearing one? strapping a bomb to a dumb creature's back is easy.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/08(Sat)17:32 No. 515444 ID: 9f5a86
File 137073795508.png - (311.31KB , 800x600 , 01-022.png )

> Sounds like a feranthro sympathizer (haha) gave them a bomb, or someone who pretends to be a sympathizer is manipulating them for some nefarious purpose.

While it's not impossible, I've never meet anyone who gave a shred of sympathy for the feranthros or even expressed it. If this was really the first incident where one got their hands on explosives, though, it makes you wonder.

> What kind of explosive? Are their hostages at risk, or is the bomb too damn big to simply get civilians away from?

"Do we know what sort of explosive it was? Was anyone taken? Hostages?" I ask. She raises an eyebrow.

"No. Not that we know of. As for what kind of explosive, I'm still trying to figure that out. I believe the witness stated the feranthro basically strapped the bomb to itself and just walked to the gate."

> did the witnesses enplane how big the bomb was?

Judging by the large crater that reached to both sides of the wall, it was fairly big. The gate's defensive mechanisms are no longer intact, that's for sure.

Massey speaks up, "And by some materials I've found scattered around, this bomb was made from heavy-duty stuff. I get a feeling that there's a possibility they may not have even created it. Either way, they probably didn't just let it go to waste. They could be smarter than we think and are actually studying what they got. I cringe at the thought of them making more of these. Still, we can't be certain all that's the case here."

"Right."

"Anyway, I need to get back to work. Base is just down the road. You've been here before, Sergeant, so I'm sure you know what to do."

"Yeah. Gotta get my info on the roster, speak to the Chief, and get a place in the barracks."

"Please be quick about it. We need you guys more than you think right now," she says. She turns her tail and goes back to her business.

The newbie and I remain alert and go down the road. She wasn't kidding, the soldiers are all up in the feranthros' shit. Tied to the ground, leaned to a wall...they weren't messing around. I keep my cool and continue down the path.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/08(Sat)17:32 No. 515445 ID: 9f5a86
File 137073796661.png - (226.87KB , 800x600 , 01-023.png )

We make it to the base, nestled snug under a large cliff face. It was a peculiar area to set up a base, but it stands out pretty well amongst all the wooden shacks and houses along the Middle. I'm wondering what I should do first.

Report in then get situated. Do you know what the average price is for firearms from Mel's business? You could make the rookie feel useful by giving him some cash and telling him to go purchase a pair of sidearms from one of Mel's vending machines, one for yourself.

>no sympathizers?
I'm thinking it's less sympathizers, and more someone who profits from the destruction, or who is opting to use them as a weapon. Real easy to give a bomb to the stupid angry lower class and let them do the dirty work.

>what do?
Report in, of course.

do what you said you were going to do first and we'll work form there.

Is Primordia the only city in the world?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/09(Sun)10:42 No. 515594 ID: 9f5a86
File 137079972207.png - (232.10KB , 800x600 , 01-024.png )

> Is Primordia the only city in the world?

I'm sure there's more civilizations out there, but I'm not too interested in our world's geography.

We head straight for the Chief's office. He gives us a short briefing on the situation and what to watch out for in the Middle city. It's all stuff I've heard before, and the Chief looks like he recognizes me, but I know it's all for the newbie.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/09(Sun)10:42 No. 515595 ID: 9f5a86
File 137079973214.png - (201.13KB , 800x600 , 01-025.png )

After that we head to support processing and get put into the roster. We also attain new accessibilities concerning restricted grounds. Yes, that is a flash-drive thing sticking out of my head.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/09(Sun)10:42 No. 515596 ID: 9f5a86
File 137079974323.png - (216.08KB , 800x600 , 01-026.png )

We get situated in the barracks, which are quite cozy. Cozier than I remember. They must've made some changes here and there. As I unpack my things, the rookie comes up to me and thanks me for my words on the convoy and helping guide him.

"No problem. It's my duty to help you," I say in an almost cheesy manner. I'm feeling a bit generous. While we're heading back out to the Middle, I figured we'd might as well make a Vendor stop and equip ourselves with a sidearm, although I don't know if we should linger.

well if you want to get a sidearm quickly just grab it before you go on patrol or if you have nothing better to do you could start looking into that feranthro bombing

Better take things nice and slow. Who knows maybe someone else will solve the case while we are visiting the vendors.

Read the rookies name tag, you gotta know your sidekicks name to make this into a proper buddy cop thing.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/09(Sun)14:27 No. 515676 ID: 9f5a86
File 137081322351.png - (262.54KB , 800x600 , 01-027.png )

I invite the rookie to come with me to a Vendor as we leave to our post. He introduces himself as Weathers.

We leave the barracks and walk around base. I pinpoint the location of the closest Vendor in my head. Weathers strikes up a sudden conversation.

"Sergeant Schar, what do you think about the feranthros? I mean this has been occupying my mind for a while now. We don't know much about them, the things they do, their history...it's just all so mysterious. I know they are violent, but then there's feranthros around here that just work and work and don't look like they want anything to do with what's going on. It's just so strange...I don't know what to think of them."

I've got a hunch: look into if the Feranthro with the bomb was a new arrival.

Feranthros may be group-minds. In the Lower City, groups can assemble and achieve higher thought. In the Middle City, they are too sparse and separated to do so. If the bomb turns out not to have been given to the Feranthro by a third party (or stolen, unlikely as that may be) and instead manufactured from scratch, and if it turns out the Feranthro bomber was a new arrival rather than an established slave, then the bomber may have been dispatched from the Lower City and lost some or all of his orders by the time he reached the gate due to the separation, remembering only enough to use the device.
Becoming a Fernathro is the process of linking to other minds, and having the parts of the brain dealing with more independent thought atrophy or plasticise and reform. The drug artificially limits or prevents any sort of link-forming. It may be that it's effectiveness is not unlimited, and the body builds up a resistance. In that case, the voices heard during sleep attempts are the beginnings of bleed-over from other minds, and why stopping taking the drug has little effect.

Other then what I hear on the news I don't really know much myself.

Tell him what you do know and maybe one or two of your more interesting encounters in your life time

You don't think anything of them(at least I think you don't care much according to your line of thinking). They're just there, they're occasionally threats and a heavy subject of social and political discussions around here, but that's it. Hostile Feranthro's are just what you see on the news. He'll probably meet a few down here and be able to make a better judgement of them. He's not only just policing them, he'll be policing Anthro's too.

If an officer starts getting political, he risks being unprofessional. Try and stay neutral and uninterested, unless he doesn't like that answer or your way of thinking, than do what he wants. But getting political can get you in a lot of nasty shit, whether you're for or against majority opinion, and can get in the way of your duty. Don't be afraid of a Furanthro more than you would an Anthro perpetrator, you're the law and only the law when you're on duty.

You need to let him know that If he's going to sympathise with the Feranthros on some level he has to be careful who he discusses the subject with; let him know that you're okay with discussing it however.
For now just give him your general opinion of them and recall an amusing encounter or case you had in the past concerning one.

>>515684
Did you make that up or is tht in the quesdis or in IRC or what?

>>515740
Rampant speculation and guesswork

>What do you think about the feranthros?
Well, I don't have much against them personally, but I'm not much of a fan of the trouble they stir up either.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/11(Tue)21:32 No. 516367 ID: 9f5a86
File 137101155468.png - (239.35KB , 800x600 , 01-028.png )

"I don't know too much about them either. I have the same feelings as you, but I don't think you should mention any sympathy to anyone else. People here tend to really look down on them and might respond negatively." Weathers nods, looking forward in a daze. "Down here, it won't be just them that you'll be watching over, it'll be Anthros too. While our government has accepted slavery, it is highly against any sort of mistreatment toward slaves. That's a big thing that goes on. The feranthros are very valuable to us. They're great workers and don't complain much."

I continue on. "They are a highly talked-about subject in the realm of political discussion. Whichever side you lean towards, don't mouth off about it. Try to stay neutral and pretend you're uninterested. Stay out of political conversation, since you might make yourself out to be unprofessional." Weathers continues to nod in understanding. "Let me tell you, the encounters I had in the past with them in this very city weren't very pleasant, but I still hold a neutral stance. I'm even a little interested in them. One time there was a pretty huge riot that got so violent, we had to use deadly force. Never like doing it, never will, but you gotta watch your back at all times. Hostile feranthros have proven time and time again they're not pissing around, but you have to try to distinguish them from the neutral ones. We hear about the violent ones on the news all the time, so much that many people see them as nothing but."

Weathers doesn't say much else, so I think I've filled him in pretty well. He's obviously very comfortable with me now and I worry about it - if he were to express sympathy to anyone else, it could mean bad news for him. I hope he took my advice to heart.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/11(Tue)21:32 No. 516368 ID: 9f5a86
File 137101157645.png - (71.77KB , 800x600 , 01-029.png )

We have arrived at the Vendor. Time to buy some stuff.

weapons and attachments
don't think we really need food at the moment, unless you got munchies. What good foods does this thing actually make? Stay away from the shitty foods obviously.

well we came here to get a sidearm so of course we're going to want to see what weapons they have and maybe just browse the other selections just to see if there might be something worth getting or just to keep an eye on for now.

You know, I can't help but be curious if there are condoms under medical.

Check weapons, and medical.

We're looking for a decent sidearm (can't use a rifle in all situations), a knife, and some kind of emergency medical kit to stuff in our gear. We'll probably need it for someone at some point.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/12(Wed)07:44 No. 516440 ID: 9f5a86
File 137104829174.png - (86.18KB , 800x600 , 01-030.png )

I first check under weapons and open up the sidearms subcategory. A nice selection of stuff. Not too pricey for sidearms either.

SP-48 sounds the most practical for an officer. The Goliath sounds like an impractical magnum, and the rate of fire and accuracy is good for unarmord targets, which is mostly what you'll be facing anyway. Your AR is meant for anything that would be difficult to take down. The side arm is for easy, quick, reliable shooting.

>>516447
Exactly this.

>>516447
Yeah, that says it all.

How much ammo do these things come with?

well you already have an assault rifle might as well go cheap for now. SP-48

also is the kid with you buying his own gun or are you paying for him one as well. either way ask what gun he wants, then maybe see what else is in this thing under the other selection options.

You should pick the SP-48, as of right now it situationally compliments your assault rifle perfectly.
If the rookie is also browsing then reccomend he also takes an SP-48, it looks like the best choice for a rookie like him to use primary instead of that assault rifle he seems to be carrying. If a situation does turn bad it would be good to know the rookie has a fire-arm that is at-least decently reliable and easy to handle in comparison to an assault rifle (which could potentially be a disaster if handled by somebody inexperienced).
If he can't afford it then buy it for him, don't ask if he wants you to buy him it otherwise he may come to rely on you too much, just handing him the gun and telling him he'd do well with it will give preferred results.

>>516492
...let's leave the rookie out of it. We don't have enough resources to be providing other people with equipment, and he can decide for himself what he's comfortable with, or wants to spend money on.

>>516493
We live(ed) in a Barracks of sorts, the way things have been going its most likely a case of all our food and luxuries were paid for us, I see little to no reason we don't use the money we have if this is the case and make extra sure that we and the rookie are prepared if he can't afford it.
As I said these are thing he can RECOMMEND to the rookie, they aren't obligatory things the rookie must do, mere suggestions.
Nothing wrong with giving the greenhorn a little guidance from someone who probably knows better.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/12(Wed)23:06 No. 516541 ID: 9f5a86
File 137110359647.png - (58.50KB , 800x600 , 01-031.png )

I decide to go with the SP-48 since it would be the most reliable sidearm. It's probably best to avoid anything too impractical.

> How much ammo do these things come with?

All these weapons come with a decent-sized magazine. The SP-48 holds twelve rounds.

> also is the kid with you buying his own gun or are you paying for him one as well. either way ask what gun he wants, then maybe see what else is in this thing under the other selection options.

> If the rookie is also browsing then reccomend he also takes an SP-48, it looks like the best choice for a rookie like him to use primary instead of that assault rifle he seems to be carrying...

I keep in mind this recommendation. For now I move on to the attachments. There are four choices here. Unfortunately, the pistol I bought can only have the laser sight attached. I can equip my rifle with any of these.

Grab the reflex sight for your rifle but leave the pistol alone. No need for a big bright laser pointer to give you away in close quarters unless the pointer only goes into the infrared and you can get your hands on night vision goggles.

reflex sight should be good for now

and how the hell can a cop get a freaking grenade launcher, if we need one of those I think we'd be screwed anyways.

Damn no grips or special ammo
With careful purchasing of upgrades and attachments, the basic pistol commonly can be the best weapon in the game

It already has ROF 9 and good accuracy, if there were upgrades/attachments to improve weapon power it'd be overkill on everything min/max wise with being the most common ammo drop. When we get home or access to internet wherever, we should google to see which vendors sell what to make the best weapon in the game life.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/14(Fri)09:19 No. 516835 ID: 9f5a86
File 137122677021.png - (64.03KB , 800x600 , 01-032.png )

> Grab the reflex sight for your rifle but leave the pistol alone.

I decide to purchase the reflex sight. There is nothing else here I really want so I move on to Medical and to the subcategory "First Aid." The other one was "OTC", over-the-counter. I wonder what would be best to buy here. Who knows what sort of things will happen out there?

Buy a kit to stick in your bag, and a knife for all kinds of useful things.

How much money did we just blow, anyways? Is that a week's wages? A month's?

what's all in the med-kit anyways? Go for the med-kit and knife, you should be good after this.

Get the medkit.
Better safe than sorry, after all.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/14(Fri)21:42 No. 516974 ID: 9f5a86
File 137127132897.png - (229.20KB , 800x600 , 01-033.png )

> Buy a kit to stick in your bag, and a knife for all kinds of useful things.

I make my purchase of the first aid kit and the knife. I store these in my pouches and then buy a candy bar and some chips from the food section. There's nothing hugely fancy in that section, as I expected. I end my session and recommend the SP-48 to Weathers before he uses the machine.

He takes my advice and purchases the sidearm, but nothing else. with that, we make our way out of the base and towards the control point again.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/14(Fri)21:42 No. 516975 ID: 9f5a86
File 137127134266.png - (310.73KB , 800x600 , 01-034.png )

Along the way, Weathers seems kinda jittery and paranoid, twisting his head round and around as if expecting something to pounce him. We all have a good reason to remain alert right now, but he's going a little overboard. He finally speaks up, "Um...Sergeant. You aren't going to tell on me, are you? I mean, about the whole thing with the feranthros...um, about how I feel sorry for them? I know there are bad ones out there...but I still can't shake this feeling...and..."

Ah, Jesus. The kid continues to drone on, and it is actually making me feel a little uncomfortable considering there are people everywhere. He isn't speaking in a whisper either.

Kid. First rule of being a good cop: don't talk more than you have to. Especially about the job.

Get him to tone it down, and tacitly reassure him you're not gonna say anything.

tell him not to worry about it and that he should probably not talk about certain things when in public and in uniform, I mean if you're on guard duty and looking for a way to pass the time and you actually know the guy you're working with then sure strike up any conversation you want but when in a crowded area while in uniform try to dial back a little because of the whole professionalism thing we talked about earlier. Just saying talking about them when tensions are high as they are might give some people the wrong idea.

>>516975
The kid is going full retard. Whack him ver the head, point out a distraction, bring up a Youtube video, just Stop him!

>>516975
Shut up no one cares.
No offense, but no one cares.

Let him know that the way he's going right now you wouldn't have had to have said anything.
Just grab him and harshly whisper that he's got to be much more subtle and what he's doing right now is fucking stupid.

Curtly tell Weathers to cut it out and stop being so nervous. Wondering about things is good in some scenarios, but right now you need to focus on the job.

Then idly start wondering why Mel went out of his way to tell you about the vendors. Is there some reason he wants your approval?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/15(Sat)21:47 No. 517192 ID: 9f5a86
File 137135802625.png - (214.80KB , 800x600 , 01-035.png )

> Just grab him and harshly whisper that he's got to be much more subtle and what he's doing right now is fucking stupid.

I cut Weathers off and grab him by the collar, whispering harshly, "Kid, understand that we're out in the open with a crowd of people all around us. Keep it to yourself, you understand? You aren't just in public, you're also in uniform. Stay professional."

Weathers nods vigorously. "Okay, okay! I'm sorry! I won't do it again!" I let him go and we move forward.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/15(Sat)21:47 No. 517194 ID: 9f5a86
File 137135805357.png - (282.29KB , 800x600 , 01-036.png )

Soon enough we come across a bit of a scene. Two soldiers surround a female feranthro.

"N-no, Sir. You don't understand. It's for my master!" she says.

"For your master, huh? So why go through all the trouble of killing just one guy?" one of the soldiers says.

"Right? Damn, you must really hate him. C'mon now. Tell us the truth, give us the box, and maybe we'll put you in a cozy interrogation cell instead," the other one sneers.

"P-please! I don't want to hurt anyone!" the feranthro is quite terrified, unable to move an inch and keeping the box close to her. One of the soliders throws a swift jab at her, knocking her down. What a couple of assholes. Still, I don't know if I should intervene.

These guys look be racist assholes. We can work with that.

Intervene, say something along the lines of "Keep it by the books, gentlemen. Our rules are what separate us from the ferals."

Or really, just anything subtly insinuating that the soldiers are equal to or worse than the feranthros for breaking protocol and resorting to violence so quickly.

From there, just get the girl in cuffs and say you're taking her in for questioning or whatever. It's probably just a mistake and we can let her go once it's cleared up, but doing that in front of our asshole soldier buddies is a bad idea.

Just arrest her.
Make it simple. She can stay here with the militia men or calmly cooperate with the police for a little bit and just get business done. Hardly interact with the soldiers. Maybe even just sneak up behind her and just cuff her even. Tell Rookie to get the box if she drops it and the not form full sentences. Only single word responses or "I don't know".

>>517194
INTERVENE

>>517197
yes i agree. a nice subtle insult for being so base.

If you have the authority to intervene then by any means do so.
If not then arrest her and she's technically under your protection, I'm assuming despite being a Feranthro it's still illegal to strike someone who's already been put under arrest yes?

It kind of looks like the soldiers assume she's carrying a bomb. Without evidence.

I mean, it's one thing if they have reasonable suspicion for a search, or this is a checkpoint, but they can't just accost anyone, right?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/16(Sun)13:00 No. 517311 ID: 9f5a86
File 137141285446.png - (300.10KB , 800x600 , 01-037.png )

> I mean, it's one thing if they have reasonable suspicion for a search, or this is a checkpoint, but they can't just accost anyone, right?

I don't know much about how the militia really operates, but after the whole thing not too long ago with the mass apprehension, I wouldn't be surprised if they could actually get away with something like this.

I walk up closer to the scene and tell Weathers to keep back. Before I can say anything, one of the soldiers notices me.

"You! You're a cop, right? Take this bitch in. Arrest her. Whatever." As I help the girl on her feet and cuff her, I say, "Are you authorized to just randomly beat anyone suspicious?"

"After what happened not too long ago? It doesn't matter what we fucking do to these degenerates. Either way, we can't be too careful now that we know what these feral fucks can do," the soldier says. "That being said, Campos, secure the perimeter and get a bomb squad in!" The other soldier nods and backs off from the area. "Clear the area! Get out of the fucking way! We might have an explosive here!" People from all around start to bicker in a panic and veer away from the zone.

The whole thing seems very fishy, but I cannot order the soldiers around. Right now I have the responsibility of the feranthro now under my custody. Bringing her in myself would take a bit of time, which by now I probably ran out of. I have to get my ass to the control point asap and so does Weathers, but I don't want to subject the girl to the soldiers again.

Somebody's well-being is more important than some time schedule, bring the feranthro into custody.

You can take her in on your own, right? Ask Weathers if he can head to the control point on his own and let them know you got caught up in something.

You’ll probably get into a bit of trouble for being late, but I can’t image anyone being too pissed about you helping out with a potential bomb situation, especially after what you saw on your way here.

*sigh*
Yeah, take her in. Arresting her for a suspicion charge that will turn up empty after they actually search her stuff is better than letting her get beaten. Your duty is to keep the peace, and this is doing it.

>split up
Terrible idea for cops. If you send partners in opposite directions, one of them always ends up dead.

Go open that box yourself. Don't you rank above those assholes in terms of calling the shots?

Assholes they may be but you don't go opening strange boxes in a situation like this. Her "master" might be using her to pick up his dry cleaning but he could also be using her as a unknowing pawn.

Politely interrogate her and try to find out whats going on.

>>517377
ALWAYS

Yeah take the girl into custody.
Basically any option besides splitting up with Weathers or leaving the girl to Weathers is a good idea.
We do our job with the girl and don't let our incompetent mess of a rookie out of our sight.

Oh the joys of the middle city, right?

For now lets just bring her in if to do nothing else then get her away from these guys, we can ask her a few questions along the way.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/17(Mon)19:51 No. 517703 ID: 9f5a86
File 137152386887.png - (246.94KB , 800x600 , 01-038.png )

> Somebody's well-being is more important than some time schedule, bring the feranthro into custody.

Seeing no other policemen around nor a convoy, I decide to escort her to headquarters myself, bringing my trusty sidekick with me.

As we amble on back down the path, the feranthro speaks up, "Please, Sir. Master is sick. He needs food and medicine!"

I reply, "Just don't resist and I can assure you everything will be over before you know it. You shouldn't have anything to worry about if the box is safe. Do you know it's safe?"

"Y-yes, Sir. I bought it all myself. Those men...they'll destroy it. Master needs his food..." she says sadly.

> we can ask her a few questions along the way.

> Politely interrogate her

What should I even ask her?

Who's this "master" fellow? He may need to be informed of the situation, after all.

>>517703
Tell her to give you a shopping list, you'll probably get reimbursed if you can currently afford it. She can get the stuff from vendors right? It would be terrible publicity if an Anthro dies because of the government getting in the way of his nurse. If the Master really needs this stuff now, you'll head over there immediately yourself after we get her in and safe.

is it something that could be picked up in a vending machine? could just give her some cash once everything is said and done to pick up on her way home.

...they shouldn't destroy it, right? It's evidence up until the bomb squad investigates, and then it's confiscated property that needs to be returned to its owner.

>>517724
>shouldn't destroy it...until bomb squad investigates

There's a good chance that the bomb squad will destroy it themselves. It may be easier for them to "controlled detonation" it so as not to waste time to figure out whether its contents could cause harm. (really depends on the attitude of the army)

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/19(Wed)00:47 No. 518039 ID: 9f5a86
File 137162804493.png - (213.20KB , 800x600 , 01-039.png )

> Who's this "master" fellow? He may need to be informed of the situation, after all.

"Can you tell me who your master is?" I ask her.

"Mister Duster. That is all I know."

"What about his location?"

"Um," she thinks for a bit, "The B102...fifteen...three oh five..." I keep this information in mind.

> is it something that could be picked up in a vending machine?

Probably not seeing as how feranthros cannot even use the thing. Vendors carry a plug that serves as a gateway. The only way to get one operating is by plugging into one's chip.

> ...they shouldn't destroy it, right? It's evidence up until the bomb squad investigates, and then it's confiscated property that needs to be returned to its owner.

That's not how things work here. Even with analysis from the bomb squad, they'll destroy it anyway, especially with word that it belonged to a feranthro.

"I could probably get you reimbursed if they do destroy your goods. Do you still have the receipt?" She nods and gestures to her apron pocket. I take out the small crumpled piece of paper and store it.

We eventually come to the base checkpoint where cops and militia are standing guard. Unsurprisingly as we approach, one of the cops freaks out. He points his gun.

"WHOA! Hold it! State your business," he shouts.

"Chill out, she's with me. I need her taken into custody temporarily."

"What? What for? What the hell happened now?" he asks.

"the soldiers seem to think a feranthro carrying anything at all is a mad bomber."

the militia believed she was carrying a bomb and asked me to bring her to the station while they called in the bomb squad so that's what I'm doing.

>>518039
Nothing important, just a routine suspicion charge. The militia boys at the bomb site jumped this one for delivering a commercial package nearby then dumped her onto my hands.

>>518039
Try something like, "Jumpy Militia. They're wasting time and money thinking a medicine package for some Anthro master is a bomb. We'll be lucky if that doesn't embarrass us all on the news. If it's not about bombs and explosions it's about us being idiots. Just got to get the Furanthro in a cell and apparently play errand boy so somebody doesn't go into diabetic shock or something. Bomb squad will be looking hard at a prescription's nutritional facts for some time now."

Talk quietly, make sure no militia are listening and try gauging with this cop's probable aggressions with other defense branches. He'll probably laugh or sigh and let you through because he doesn't want to deal with this shit either.

"Overly paranoid militia."

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/19(Wed)22:05 No. 518275 ID: 9f5a86
File 137170471007.png - (200.91KB , 800x600 , 01-040.png )

> Talk quietly, make sure no militia are listening and try gauging with this cop's probable aggressions with other defense branches. He'll probably laugh or sigh and let you through because he doesn't want to deal with this shit either.

"The militia are super jumpy. Caught this girl carrying a box and apprehended her immediately. They told me to arrest her until they unravel the situation," I explain. The cop shakes his head and chuckles.

"I mean...I understand why everyone's so careful right now," he starts, gazing at the feranthro, "but she doesn't really look like she intends for anyone to get hurt." I pull out the receipt.

"She apparently got some goods from a store. If they destroy the box, which they probably will, I think it'd only be right to reimburse her. The stuff is for her master."

"Her master, huh?"

"Yeah. I'll have to pay him a visit too and let him know what's going on."

"Well you obviously have something to do. Here, let me escort her." I let her walk over to the cop. "You just do what you have to do. I'll take the receipt too and take care of that." I give the paper to him. I give my thanks and we head back in the other direction.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/19(Wed)22:05 No. 518276 ID: 9f5a86
File 137170472362.png - (222.00KB , 800x600 , 01-041.png )

I recall the address the feranthro gave me and transcend across a labyrinth of wooden planks and balconies lining across the cliff faces. The rookie isn't complaining about all the travelling we're doing, but that's a good thing, of course. If he's been raised in the Upper City all his life, he's going to have to learn to get used to this sort of thing. There isn't much transport down here.

I arrive at what I believe is the correct shack and pound on the door. There are no lights coming from the windows, but eventually I hear very faint footsteps. The door creaks open, revealing a old canid Anthro. He adjusts his specs and blinks his eyes quite a bit.

"Hello?" he says, sounding hoarse.

"Good morning, Sir. I'm Sgt. Aiden Schar with the Primordia police force."

"Police? Oh my. Is this about Bella? She hasn't come back for a bit..."

Let him know what happened and that you are going to do everything you can to make sure she stays safe and his stuff is returned to him.

Try to find out more about what has been going on in the area. A local should be able to help fill in the gaps.

Also on the very off hand chance he is a secret terrorist leader make sure to keep a eye on your surroundings.

Say you're sorry but she is in police custody right now under the charge of carrying a bomb. And tell him he shouldn't worry to much as it's just the militia being jumpy from the recent bombing and once they figure out that she didn't have anything dangerous she'll be let out. We just came by to let you know so you wouldn't have to worry about her and again to apologies for the inconvenience.

>>518285
This, pretty much.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/20(Thu)17:36 No. 518413 ID: 9f5a86
File 137177498390.png - (117.62KB , 800x600 , 01-042.png )

> Say you're sorry but she is in police custody right now under the charge of carrying a bomb. And tell him he shouldn't worry to much as it's just the militia being jumpy from the recent bombing and once they figure out that she didn't have anything dangerous she'll be let out. We just came by to let you know so you wouldn't have to worry about her and again to apologies for the inconvenience.

I explain to the man what has happened and where the feranthro is located. I also assure him that he should not worry because it should all be sorted out and the girl released unharmed.

"Well I do appreciate you coming to let me know. I was getting a bit worried. I did hear about the bomb, but I'm sure everyone knows by now. Very sad to see things like that happen. Not all of them are bad. Bella is the sweetest girl you'll meet. Never complains, even since I've been raising her when she was very young. Make sure no one hurts her. She doesn't deserve it." We both say our farewells and head out toward the control point again.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/20(Thu)17:36 No. 518414 ID: 9f5a86
File 137177499605.png - (229.82KB , 800x600 , 01-043.png )

"Finally! What the hell got your hands full? In-processing does NOT take that long!" Inspector Massey is quite furious. "Did you lose your way!? I have tests to run! I don't have to time to soak up the sun!"

No excuses. "I apologize, Ma'am. It won't happen again."

I don't think militia ordering you to arrest and detain a furanthro is exactly an excuse perhaps, it's an explanation. It might get those assholes in trouble too.

>>518415
This. Just take the dressing down, get to work, and don't make excuses.

Tell her you had to help the militia with a police matter and apologize for the delay.

>>518415
Just say this unless she ask for why you where late. If she does just tell her (again) the militia saw a feranthros carrying a box, thought it was a bomb, had us take her into custody, and then we had to tell her owner where she was.

If she does ask us why I really hope this is the last time we have to tell someone what we did today.

No excuses.

She doesn't want to know why we were late. She wants respect.

>>518467
key words here>>518430 were unless she ask

>>518469
I was replying to >>518420 actually, but for some reason the >> didn't take.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/21(Fri)15:57 No. 518623 ID: 9f5a86
File 137185547410.png - (216.64KB , 800x600 , 01-044.png )

> No excuses. "I apologize, Ma'am. It won't happen again."

I apologize to her, not delving into any details until she directly asks for it.

She huffs and puts her hands on her hips, looking quite impatient, but suddenly her mood seems to change. She bows her head and sighs, massaging her temples.

"Alright, maybe I was a little rough there." She walks past us and looks back at me. She takes a deep breath before she speaks again. "Sorry. That was unprofessional of me. Anyway, you two be careful out here. I'm not your commanding officer or anything, but you should have the shift change in mind. 'Til next time." With a flick of her wrist Massey takes her leave.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/21(Fri)15:58 No. 518624 ID: 9f5a86
File 137185548406.png - (254.94KB , 800x600 , 01-045.png )

Weathers and I take charge of the decimated control point. I eye a couple soldiers that are gathering up debris and trash lying around. You'd think they would have gotten some feranthros to do it, but with what's happened, I guess that's out of the question. I'm not responsible or even obliged for clean-up, but..

You will earn no points for trash duty. You could find something of interest, but...

Go ask the Soldiers if they've found anything that might hint at the nature of the explosive, and who is in charge of the bomb investigation.

Dude, you might as well help. It'd be the decent thing to do. Pitch in, clean up with them.

well as long as you don't really leave the area you're suppose to be guarding It couldn't hurt.

I know there's an impulse to help other people working, but remember this security control point. Someone is supposed to keep watch.

I mean, if they're getting bogged down or tired you could offer to swap with them for a bit (you work, they watch) but having no one on watch is a bad idea.

You're already helping them by watching their backs. It's better to keep someone at full attention.

Yes. You are police, it's your job to watch and keep others from interfering, not to pitch in. Just like whenever they get police to watch over construction crews on the street, it's not like they should jump right into the construction just to be nice.

Do your job. Your job is to stand guard.

Right?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/22(Sat)23:36 No. 518918 ID: 9f5a86
File 137196938473.png - (265.02KB , 800x600 , 01-046.png )

> Yes. You are police, it's your job to watch and keep others from interfering, not to pitch in. Just like whenever they get police to watch over construction crews on the street, it's not like they should jump right into the construction just to be nice.

After a drawn out thought process, I finally decide to keep on watch. The soldiers work tirelessly and I doubt they really need an extra hand.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/22(Sat)23:36 No. 518919 ID: 9f5a86
File 137196939663.png - (170.56KB , 800x600 , 01-047.png )

And so hours and hours of nothing follow until night falls. Weathers and I are relieved and head back to the barracks. For a first time on the job in a while, it didn't turn out too badly, but of course I was speaking on the note of...well, absolutely nothing happening. I hope this remains a trend. The rookie hasn't said much to me, only a brief goodbye before heading to his own area. I think I may have scared him a bit, but it's probably for the best.

I lazily slump on my bed after taking off my weighty jacket. Regardless if not too much had been accomplished today, I actually feel a little tired. Maybe there's a chance I could actually get a decent amount of sleep tonight. Maybe even an extra hour.

I realize I haven't taken a shower yet, but I grow more tired by the minute, and with my ass on the bed already, it's going to be very difficult to get myself up onto my feet again.

eh, if you're a light sleeper you're probably going to still wake up early so you can take a shower then and it would have the added bonus of killing some time while you wait for the rest of the world to wake up.

if your record of seep is ay indication you will be up early.

that shirt makes you look fat

If you want to increase you likelihood of a good nights sleep I'd recommend a hot shower, there's a high chance that in your state it will just add to the drowsiness.
Nothing like a good sleep after a nice warm shower?
There's no real NEED for you to take the shower, but it's what I'd suggest if it really has been a long while since you slept decently.

If there's a chance of you getting some real chance after all that insomnia, take it. No need to force yourself back to your feet, or wake yourself up with a shower.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/23(Sun)15:44 No. 518997 ID: 9f5a86
File 137202747124.png - (166.65KB , 800x600 , 01-048.png )

> that shirt makes you look fat

Yeah, it does. Then again I am a bit tubby and not near the shape I used to be.

> eh, if you're a light sleeper you're probably going to still wake up early so you can take a shower then and it would have the added bonus of killing some time while you wait for the rest of the world to wake up.

Seeing as how I might wake up pretty early regardless, I suppose I'll just take a shower when I eventually get woken up.

I plop my head down on the pillow and instantly feel a sharp pain on the back of my head.

"OW!" I shout as I sit right back up. I inspect my pillow and there is a bump on it. I take out the object, which is a flash drive...

seems you got a secret message

Do you have your own computer you can plug that into? Preferably one that isn't connected to a network?

Well, unless there's risk of uploading a virus to your brain...

Stick it in your head, see what's on it?

>>519006
Mind-virus. Hahaha, like Feliz Navidad or the Song That Never Ends or something.

I bet it's from that guy who owned the Feranthro girl of something?
Who has access to your room?

Do you think you'd ever possess the motivation to get back into shape again? Or is there not really any need for you to do so? 'cos if you did I'm sure exercising would help your sleep issues through fatigue and living in a Barracks probably means that there is some sort of gym room on hand somewhere yeah?

Nooooooooooot liking the sound of you just plugging random objects into your head. See if you can't find a computer or tablet or something to plug it into first if you want to look at it. Or if you're still tired just go back to sleep and worry about it in the morning.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/24(Mon)20:01 No. 519294 ID: 9f5a86
File 137212927736.png - (95.59KB , 800x600 , 01-049.png )

> Nooooooooooot liking the sound of you just plugging random objects into your head.

That's definitely not something you'd want to risk. The brain can handle the smaller viruses, but the larger ones will certainly cause some damage.

There is an issued laptop on my desk and my curiosity gets the best of me. If I unplug the network, the virus won't be able to get into the higher systems, but I won't be able to access the internet. Regardless, these laptops have very powerful walls against any incoming virus or malware. I plug in the flash drive, which is labelled Flash Drive Y. There are no viruses on the flash drive. There is an empty folder named "RKNING," an image file called "IMG01," and a text file called "Hyuro." This is already weirding me out.

Read the text check the image.

look at image read text. then go into the empty folder. go to the folder options and check "view hidden files" and "view system files"

look at picture first then look at the empty folder just to see if you can spot anything then check out the Hyuro folder

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/24(Mon)21:23 No. 519310 ID: 9f5a86
File 137213422888.png - (164.54KB , 800x600 , 01-050.png )

> look at image read text. then go into the empty folder. go to the folder options and check "view hidden files" and "view system files"

I open up the image. I'm not sure what I'm looking at, but the lighting creeps me out for some reason.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/24(Mon)21:24 No. 519311 ID: 9f5a86
File 137213424295.png - (102.65KB , 800x600 , 01-051.png )

I then open the text file. It says, "THE ADVOCATE WILL REACH DOWN AND EXPUNGE ALL IMPURITIES." The "advocate?" I doubt a lawyer would really engage in something like genocide.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/24(Mon)21:24 No. 519312 ID: 9f5a86
File 137213425317.png - (98.08KB , 800x600 , 01-052.png )

Lastly I look in the folder and, of course, nothing is in it...at least nothing unhidden. I manage to reveal a single text file with some functions and look inside. It's an address.

make a couple copies. hook it back to the internet and email yourself an upload it passworded to a drop box.

>>519310
Oh joy the old kidnap victim with a bag over there head trick, that almost always means something bad

>>519311
this is starting to sound a bit cultish

>>519312
... anywhere nearby? Might be worth taking a look if we ever find ourselves with some free time

Anyways if you think anything is worth saving then copy it somewhere safe that only you can get to it and get rid of that flash drive. Something about it makes me feel that it would be a very bad thing if someone found you with that.

You wouldn't happen to know any cultists or batshit crazy zealots would you?

That folder is named "reckoning," btw. Expect weirdos.

You should look up who had this cot/bed before you did. This is your new bed and barracks right? Or did someone sneak you this recently?

If this is still your old bed and barracks, I'm not sure where to find the source of this thing. Maybe Mel can help you out here, he's one of your smart tech friends. He can probably get the data on where/when these files were made, since video's, pictures, and documents usually have a digital trail to their origins. I think. I don't know how to do that though, or even interpret that data. Just hope it wasn't first made in a public library. Or maybe we do, there will be camera footage there we can map up with the computer ID's and the time interval in which it was made, most probably.

>RKNING
RECKONING

>THE ADVOCATE WILL REACH DOWN AND EXPUNGE ALL IMPURITIES.

>Image presumably of a dead feral with a sack over their head.

"IMPURITIES" probably refers to ferals, so it looks like we're dealing with either a conspiracy about a government plot or an actual government plot to kill all feranthros.

The bomb situation is looking like it may have been an inside job to ensure a positive public opinion of harsher enforcement or outright feranthro genocide. That, or someone is interpreting it that way.

For the moment, make backups (but not onto the laptop itself), look into who had this bunk previously (specifically, why they no longer have this bunk), and see if you or a techbuddy can get any metadata or deleted files off of the drive.

Make a backup. Set up a deadman's switch to send it to a trusted third party if you don't check in for a day. Then report it to your superiors ASAP.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/26(Wed)13:36 No. 519615 ID: 9f5a86
File 137227900075.png - (131.98KB , 800x600 , 01-053.png )

> make a couple copies. hook it back to the internet and email yourself an upload it passworded to a drop box.

Seeing as how there isn't a virus on this drive, I reconnect the network, compress and encrypt the files, and send it to my email. I do not have a drop box in mind.

> You wouldn't happen to know any cultists or batshit crazy zealots would you?

Personally? Nope. I have seen some though.

> You should look up who had this cot/bed before you did. This is your new bed and barracks right? Or did someone sneak you this recently?

I have no way to find this out unless I raid Public Records or can travel back in time, which I can't. I have no idea how this drive could get under my pillow unless someone forgot about it.

> Maybe Mel can help you out here, he's one of your smart tech friends.

He could probably find something out that I don't. I shoot him an email. For some reason I don't have him on my mobile phone so I request his number in the email as well.

> "IMPURITIES" probably refers to ferals, so it looks like we're dealing with either a conspiracy about a government plot or an actual government plot to kill all feranthros.

I personally can't believe that. The government hasn't shown any bit of hatred to that level for the ferals. But the text does make me wonder. It mentions the Advocate will "reach down," so maybe that is in reference to the Upper City looming over the lower ones?

I suddenly have a lot to think about. There goes my extra hour of sleep.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/26(Wed)13:36 No. 519617 ID: 9f5a86
File 137227901865.png - (82.63KB , 800x600 , 01-055.png )

My eyelids feel like boulders. I check my watch. Three hours! That passed incredibly fast. I feel a vibrating sensation in my ear and some ringing, as if I had just listened to something in full blast. My grainy vision slowly recovers. I still don't feel rested. At least I have plenty to do today.

think you might have been hearing shit in your sleep some of the things I caught were

awaken, the, see, inside, and beast. Not a clue what it means but again shit is starting to sound very cultish

as for what to do well you might as well take that shower you were going to take last night.

I'm thinking not taking that medication is starting to have side effects. That or the lack of sleep is starting to get to you. If you feel like you mind is slowing down you should probably start taking it again.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/27(Thu)11:47 No. 519815 ID: 9f5a86
File 137235882244.png - (139.93KB , 800x600 , 01-056.png )

> as for what to do well you might as well take that shower you were going to take last night.

I jump out of bed and groggily head to the showers.

> I'm thinking not taking that medication is starting to have side effects. That or the lack of sleep is starting to get to you. If you feel like you mind is slowing down you should probably start taking it again.

There was definitely something different this time. The voices were more clear and, somehow, louder. I can still remember some of what I heard, but it was all in fragments. I'm curious as to how this is happening, but something inside advices I not go any further. After this shower I'll go back to the shots. As I idle, I wonder what is next on the agenda.

well if we got time to kill we could go online and do a quick search of the address you found to see if there is anything immediately noticeable about it. If nothing else you could always get an early breakfast in and see if your friend responded to the email you sent him.

Nah, don't go back to the shots yet. Things haven't gotten crazy enough to warrant that.

I think you should hold off on the shots for now, atleast until you start hearing things whilst you're not fatigued.

Now check for messages from Mel, or just visit him whatever.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/29(Sat)10:42 No. 520228 ID: 9f5a86
File 137252777461.png - (154.40KB , 800x600 , 01-057.png )

> Nah, don't go back to the shots yet. Things haven't gotten crazy enough to warrant that.

My mind is suddenly at conflict with the shots. I feel I can probably learn something from the voices when they are clear enough. It sounds crazy, but I'm just really curious about what's going on in my head, and everyone should have a right to know what goes on in their own mind.

> well if we got time to kill we could go online and do a quick search of the address you found to see if there is anything immediately noticeable about it. If nothing else you could always get an early breakfast in and see if your friend responded to the email you sent him.

I'm not sure if the Middle has been thoroughly scanned to come up with the ability to see every single shack and factory down here through one's computer. When and if I visit, I should have an idea when I see it for myself.

I bring my laptop down to the cafeteria and get some breakfast and coffee. I sit down and immediately receive notification of a reply to my email.

Mel replies, "Good to hear from you, Aiden! About your flash drive, could you possibly send it to me? That would make it a lot easier for me to scan those sort of details. Also, my number is 83-76-0012. Could you head over to any Vendor and activate it when you get the chance?"

So there, got his number down. I'll have to find some time to mail this drive. It may be a bit early for the post office to be open.

eh, just mail it some time during your shift or if you can't find the time do it after, since your on the computer see if there is anything other then crap in the news specifically anything that might sound a bit... cultish. By that I mean anything that sounds like it might be relate to the flash drive and I know that isn't a lot to go on but still it never hurts just to look.

Are there any political parties with an online presence you can research? Specifically ones with clear agendas regarding the feranthros?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/29(Sat)23:19 No. 520381 ID: 9f5a86
File 137257316409.png - (202.95KB , 800x600 , 01-058.png )

A person walks past me on the corner of my eye. The figure stops and turns around. I look up at her.

"Well there's a familiar face," she says. It's Inspector Massey. After an awkward pause, she adds, "You mind?"

I shake my head. "Good," she says in a quick burst as she seats herself and begins to eat.

> since your on the computer see if there is anything other then crap in the news specifically anything that might sound a bit... cultish. By that I mean anything that sounds like it might be relate to the flash drive and I know that isn't a lot to go on but still it never hurts just to look.

There is nothing on any news site indicating a specific cult. Just more articles about very common things that go on around the city. I don't see anything yet about the explosion.

> Are there any political parties with an online presence you can research? Specifically ones with clear agendas regarding the feranthros?

'Parties?' On this rock, there is only one party, and one central government. I don't get into politics very much, but I don't know of any significant and well-known groups actively spreading their hatred over the feranthros. There are most definitely your share of hate groups in general, but no one making a name for themself.

Over the edge of my screen I see Inspector Massey taking interest in my cyber-rummaging. She then looks up at me.

"You look like a train wreck," she speaks up. I gaze up at her.

"So do you," I say back. She scoffs.

"Well, I won't deny that. I slept like shit last night. In fact, I've been sleeping like shit for quite a while now. It kinda worries me, but that's okay, because in this society, you'd might as well be extra concerned about any symptom that comes up, even if it's a common fucking cold." I stare at my screen, pretending I'm reading something. "So what're you doing?"

"you're not the only one who can't seem to get any sleep these days, but to answer your question just killing time on the net till my shift starts. Any recommendations for me or should I just keep clicking on things with the vain hope of finding something worth while?"

>>520381
Just looking up rumors. Nothing much is turning up. So just thinking about playing some tetris now.

>>520381
>"So what're you doing?"
Wondering just how many other people aren't sleeping well lately.

>>520407
Wait, what? This is significant. Other people are having the same shit going on. We should tell her that we haven't been sleeping well either and try to work out if there's a common cause.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/06/30(Sun)22:31 No. 520517 ID: 9f5a86
File 137265671235.png - (184.99KB , 800x600 , 01-059.png )

"Oh, just looking up some...stuff." My mind is suddenly very occupied with the realization that Massey has just described the same problem I'm having. But who knows, maybe she could just be having some other problem. "You said you can't get any sleep?"

"Nope. It's really weird. It might have to do with the stress of all this shit. Rotations seem to miss me every time. I've been stuck in this shithole for at least a year now. It might not seem that long, but I feel I'm definitely going crazy. Returning to the Upper City is nothing but a worthless dream now. But I haven't dreamed for a while."

"Well, I'm having trouble sleeping too."

"Oh?" she looks interested. I curse myself, not being sure if I should have said that. Regardless, we're in each other's mercy right now, and I feel I can trust her.

"Been going on for a long time as well. Months." Massey leans forward.

"Do you hear things?" she questions.

not sure we should tell her everything just yet, I mean with the flash drive we found and not really knowing where people stand I really don't think it's safe just to tell every person we pass all of our life problems. Still we've gotten ourselves this deep already so...

Don't really answer her question (at least not yet) just ask her what does she mean by voices. This will either give us a better idea of what we're hearing at night is trying to say or if it sounds like nothing we are experiencing then we could truthfully tell that no we don't really hear anything like that.

lean in, "i hear as much as you do"

>>520522
This!
For all we know this could be some way of determining a troops mental state and without knowing her too well we can't assume what her intentions are by bringing this up.
Could be bad bro.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/02(Tue)09:09 No. 520809 ID: 9f5a86
File 137278139753.png - (151.61KB , 800x600 , 01-060.png )

> Don't really answer her question (at least not yet) just ask her what does she mean by voices. This will either give us a better idea of what we're hearing at night is trying to say or if it sounds like nothing we are experiencing then we could truthfully tell that no we don't really hear anything like that.

"What things?" I ask.

"Voices. Do you remember hearing voices in your sleep?" she clarifies.

"I hear as much as you do," I say, trying to stay vague.

"So you do then." As soon as she says this, I feel like all my insides had frozen up. I'm not sure how to take all this. Does she really trust me that she'd completely turn the conversation like this? Even if she were to mouth off about me, I could do the same to her now. "Come on, Sergeant. You don't have to play dumb. This is between you and me."

She's asking for too much after only have met yesterday.
As it goes she already knows as much as you do now so there's little point in divulging further information which we don't have.
Continue to be vague.

>>520809
We live in the police force in a modern age. Hardly are things between two people anymore when serving the public.

Besides, what's their to talk about? There's a pattern somewhere, there's probably far more people than just us, it's an annoying health concern at the moment. A psychiatrist would offer some drugs to help further a chemical balance in the brain to solve this problem, but because of our occupation, that really isn't an option is it? We could lose our jobs.

The word Beast seems to be circulating around though, you figure.

Truth be told I don't really know what I hear, could be voices could just as likely be a buzzing in my ear, all I do know is I can't seem to catch a good night of sleep but then again it could just be stress from the job.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/03(Wed)18:44 No. 521121 ID: 9f5a86
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> Continue to be vague.

"I do what? I'm not sure it could exactly be voices. Could be a lot of other things. I can't really tell, but I haven't been getting a good deal of sleep. Like you said, it could be just the stress."

She sighs. "Tell me about it. I've been here too damn long. Usually going to a doctor would be good to do, but you don't know how others will react. Huh. You wonder if the higher ups really even care about the welfare of their troops." She finishes her meal and gets up. "Well, thanks for letting me sit with you. It's just good to know I'm not the only one going crazy. But the fact that you are already experiencing these things kinda worries me."

"Oh, it's been happening before I even came here," I say. This causes her brow to lift.

"I see. Well good luck then, and maybe we'll see each other again." With that, she leaves.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/03(Wed)18:44 No. 521122 ID: 9f5a86
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While she exits, my eyes trail off to an interesting thing on the television I haven't seen before. It's news of a mysterious figure idling on a structure poking out of the dense fog of the Lower City. The only people from the Lower City we ever really see are the ones that are charging at us with homicidal intent. Or maybe those could just be regular rioters in the Middle. No one can really tell these days.

With my food eaten, I don't have much else to do here.

>>521122
do there eyes normally glow like that or would you just say that's a trick of the light?

>>521121
not really sure what to make of her yet so you might want to keep an eye on her but at the same time i don't get the feeling that she's out to get you.

eh might as well watch and finish up your meal as you wait for your shift to start.

Do you have enough time before your shift starts to go and activate Mels Vendor like he asked?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/05(Fri)00:59 No. 521553 ID: 9f5a86
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> do there eyes normally glow like that or would you just say that's a trick of the light?

No, they don't normally glow. That is what's a bit chilling about this footage.

> Do you have enough time before your shift starts to go and activate Mels Vendor like he asked?

There is plenty of time for that. I turn in my tray and head outside the barracks to the nearest Vendor.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/05(Fri)00:59 No. 521554 ID: 9f5a86
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Right when I log in, a small-sized frame appears in the middle of the screen. A video feed displays Mel.

"Aiden! Hey, pal! Ha ha, I can't believe I got it to work!" he says excitedly. A chill runs down my spine when I hear his voice. I immediately start looking around me, making sure no one is watching. "Aiden?"

"Mel, what is this?"

"What do you mean? It's awesome!"

"Are there cameras on these things too?" I ask. Mel laughs nervously.

"Yeah...you could say that. But hey, now I can communicate with you when you activate one of these! It's not just for anyone either, only you! Isn't that cool?"

"Uh, I guess." I look around again. There is a slight pause and Mel scratches his cheek nonchalantly, looking like he's brainstorming for something else to say.

"Sooo - ah, yes! The Vendor. How do you like it? Pretty sweet right? It always needs improvements though. C'mon, Aiden, criticize the hell out of me!"

How about start by putting on a shirt, you shameless hussy.

Our first criticism is that you may be a bit obsessed with us.

Our second one is that the government won't like this one bit if they find out, and you'll probably get blamed too. Then they'll like this and him right after they're able to figure out they can track purchases of Anthro's and get full pictures of suspects easily. But not after demoting us to Lower City to get fucked in the ass by a were-furanthro. And the medical section of this machine could not possibly supply enough lube to ease the pain, or painkillers for after. And it doesn't sell a roofie for us to take to forget that horrible experience.

Mel, you have somehow been overprepared and underprepared at the same goddamn time.

>>521554
choices felt a bit limited but then again I really didn't browse to much so it could have been a fault on my end. Could also have a quick search feature where if somebody is try to upgrade or mod something they could just punch the thing's name into the vending machine and then all available mods, accessories, and addons would just pop on screen for whatever it is you're looking to upgrade, you know to save time by not having to navigate through page after page trying to find some upgrades a single object without having to shift through a bunch of mods that don't go for it looking for the few mods that do. One criticism I do have though is it was a bit of a chore to find a knife, found it under medical, thought you would have had some kind of melee option under weapons truth be told. Guns are nice but if someone can get up close to you the do tend to become a little less useful.

Also he wanted us to send him that flash drive we found right? so do we just plug that in somewhere or is there some way for us to mail it?

>>521557
He's wearing a tank top, like when we first met him.

Is there a particular reason he's so excitable? I can't tell whether he's excited that he got the vendor to do what he wants or he's just glad to see his friend.
Maybe the guy's a little lonely or something?

Oh and is there any reason why Mel would be so willing to help you, are you close friends?

>>516368
Wow, he already updated it a bit since yesterday. He is big into this.
As for what to fix, knife being under medical is possibly not right.
>>516835

>On this rock
As in, on this planet? Are you guys not native here?

>Mel, criticize
...well, I guess I can sort of see the advantage of building in a backdoor communication system into your vendor system. Although it's kind of weird it's just for me. Not sure where this runs legally either, and I'm the cop.

I suppose the next logical upgrade would be to figure out wireless so people don't have to physical jack in all the time? ...although wireless nodes in your head kind of end up being considerably more dangerous than jacks. At least now, you have some control over what gets in there.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/05(Fri)13:24 No. 521677 ID: 9f5a86
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> Our first criticism is that you may be a bit obsessed with us.

Hey, it's alright. The kid's attached to me, understandably. I've been taking care of him since he was pretty young.

> choices felt a bit limited but then again I really didn't browse to much so it could have been a fault on my end.

I give him the first bit of my feedback.

"Yes, yes, I know. Sorry about that. The Vendor's still a bit new, and I need to find a way to expand over its limitations. It wouldn't be too cost-effective either since I got these babies set up in multiple areas. But I'll see if I can add more stuff. Right now I added in a cool little function that restocks your ammo for a fee!

> Could also have a quick search feature

"Hmmm. Interesting proposition! I'll look into it. You were always good with ideas, man!"

> As for what to fix, knife being under medical is possibly not right.

"Oh, right. Yeah, it's classified as a 'medical knife,' but it's weird, I know. I understand you also might be wondering why there are no 'melee' weapons or anything under that category. I thought you guys were issued those anyway!"

> I suppose the next logical upgrade would be to figure out wireless so people don't have to physical jack in all the time?

I'm not too worried about this. Mel probably has a crapload of ideas in his head that he intends to implement as time moves on.

> Oh and is there any reason why Mel would be so willing to help you, are you close friends?

Mel does get a bit lonely it seems like. But like I said before, we've developed a bit of a brotherly bond back then when I had to look after him.

> As in, on this planet? Are you guys not native here?

I meant 'rock' as in this whole island.

"Aiden!" Mel's voice breaks through the glass I've put over my focus.

"Oh, sorry. I was spacing out."

"Hey, it's cool. I recorded down your feedback. See? This is great! You can always drop by and give me suggestions when you feel the need to."

> Also he wanted us to send him that flash drive we found right?

"You said you wanted me to send you the flash drive I found?" I question. Mel nods vigorously.

"Yeah! Of course, you won't be able to send it through here. Try out the post office. You know they might question sending some random flash drive, but I'll let them know it's all good. So! Anything else?"

not at this time, but if you ever get anything new in your inventory on your vending machines feel free to drop me an email and I'll mail this thing to you as soon as I can.

>>521677
Another feature would be to implement requests or to find objects that would most likely be in a different area in a different machine. Also, media rentals and purchases. Not that that is too relevant to our uses but it's a good market.

I'm not sure why the post office would object to shipping computer equipment. Especially if you boxed it beforehand, but whatever.

Can't think of anything else, for now. I'll see you when we see you, buddy.

Make a mental note to set aside some spare time to spend with the guy however make it an unscheduled visit, he seems like the kind of person who would appreciate surprise visits.
Apart from that I think we're done here.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/07(Sun)12:57 No. 522400 ID: 9f5a86
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> Another feature would be to implement requests or to find objects that would most likely be in a different area in a different machine

As far as I know, all these machines have the same items in stock.

> Also, media rentals and purchases. Not that that is too relevant to our uses but it's a good market.

Mel will definitely be expanding the selections in the Vendor, but I don't know if he'll be touching into things like that. Weapons, food, and health items are high on his priority right now.

> not at this time, but if you ever get anything new in your inventory on your vending machines feel free to drop me an email and I'll mail this thing to you as soon as I can.

"Not right now, but hey, if you get any new items in here, shoot me an email or something."

"Will do!" Mel replies.

"Cool, I'll mail this drive to you as soon as I can."

"I'll look out for it!"

"Alright, I think that's all I got, Mel. I'll catch you later."

"Bye, Aiden! See you when I see you!" The frame disappears and it seems that's that.

> Make a mental note to set aside some spare time to spend with the guy however make it an unscheduled visit, he seems like the kind of person who would appreciate surprise visits.

I make this note, although I don't see it happening for a while in the current condition we're in.

I suddenly feel a vibration in my pocket and take out my PDA. I have received a message from the Chief.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/07(Sun)12:57 No. 522401 ID: 9f5a86
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I head back and dress up into my gear. I then go down and into the Chief's office.

He breaks it down. "Getting some hostile activity down in one of the loading facilities. Of course, it's one of those Feranthro slaves. All I need you to do is make your way down there and escort him. One of the militia already has the destination, you just gotta look over him for a bit. The facility is at Level 2, 2-45 near Orville. You have an idea where that's at?"

"Yes, Sir."

"Good! It's not too far, so I trust you can make it on foot." The Chief seems like a nice guy. Last time I was down here, the Chief over us was not the most friendly and uplifting person. I feel I can ask this guy anything without worrying that I'll get my neck broken.

any idea what kind of activity? just some simple vandalism or another riot or what?

Geeze, worrying whether a superior will break your neck is not a concern you should have to have.

Regardless, I don't think we have anything to ask him right now.

At least escorting an arrestee isn't too hard. Let's grab your partner and head out.

>>522401
Ask the chief for any words of advice concerning cooperation with or communicating to/from the militia hierarchy in light of recent events.
The Militia's attitude thus far makes you worry about getting things done properly, and you'd rather avoid playing games of telephone when requesting assistance or details about the situation.

Ask him what he knows regarding Inspector Massey, I want to know if we can trust her or whether she was aiming to just get us in deep shit.

>>522401
>One of the militia already has the destination, you just gotta look over him for a bit.
Ask him if this is the Militia's ballgame or the Police's?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/09(Tue)09:24 No. 523065 ID: 9f5a86
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> Ask him if this is the Militia's ballgame or the Police's?

I don't think I should ask him that. This is a simple escort mission and we're both capable of transportation. Once he's dropped off, I'm good to go.

> any idea what kind of activity? just some simple vandalism or another riot or what?

"If you don't mind me asking, Chief, what sort of activity went down?" I ask.

"Oh...hmm, I believe it's just a slave that decided to lash out. I don't think he has murderous intent like the usual ones, but he definitely needs to move."

> Ask the chief for any words of advice concerning cooperation with or communicating to/from the militia hierarchy in light of recent events.

I then express my concern about the militia and their attitude toward the situations rising from this section.

"I understand how you feel about their practices. We might ultimately be converging to fight off hostiles, but we are very much two separate branches with our own codes and methods. The best advice I can really give you is to follow their lead, even though you might not like it. In a sense, they are over us, and are the government's go-to when things go down. Of course if something really heinous were to happen, you could always come to me or any superior about it, regardless of branch."

> Ask him what he knows regarding Inspector Massey, I want to know if we can trust her or whether she was aiming to just get us in deep shit.

I inquire about Inspector Massey. He chuckles.

"Ah, so you wound up crossing her path, yes? It's understandable, the way she is I mean. The lack of rotations could drive anyone crazy down here unless you enjoy the Middle for some reason. She can be pretty snappy at times, but I can tell the stress is eating away at her. She gets paranoid quite a bit. I'd like to help her, but she never opens up."

All right. Collect your partner and head out. (We'd have to be spread pretty thin for cops to do escort missions alone, right?).

Right, I think it's fair to say we could probably admit we hear the voices to Massey if we see her again, apologise beforehand.
Before that though see if any others in the Barracks have been approached by Massey asking strange questions just to be on the safe side, she may just be looking for someone to open up to? He says she never opens up but she seemed pretty willing with you so I assume this is the case.

Anyway that's all rubbish we can get done later, for now find your partner and get the job done.

alright get your supplies find your partner and head on out. I'd like to get this done before it becomes to big of a problem and I'm already getting a bad feeling about this escort mission, most like because it's an escort mission those always suck.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/10(Wed)12:12 No. 523417 ID: 9f5a86
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> All right. Collect your partner and head out.

I thank the Chief and go on my way. I head back upstairs to look for Weathers, but I cannot find the kid anywhere. It's possible he could've been pulled to do some other task. I'm thinking to hell with it all and just going down to the site on my own.

Eh might as well since it seems to be a rather simple job. Just hurry over to the loading facilities before the militia get bored.

>>523417
no. Never go anywhere without your buddy man. You dont just decide to abandon the buddy system.
Lets get looking for him, if he doesnt turn up in ten to fifteen minutes of looking, then we can go out alone. I would still rather have him around, though, as flying solo is never a good idea.

Eh... fine. Just go. It's kind of stupid for cops not to have assigned partners, but you've got orders.

The new kid has a cell phone or something, right?

Maybe you can give your tech guy a call to locate Weather's police tracker thingy. You guys have those right?

Still, seems kinda' stupid to go without your partner.
Who's gonna watch your back?
What if something goes wrong? (And it will.)

FIND PARTNER. A MAN DOES NOT GET DE-ASSIGNED FROM YOU WITHOUT YOUR NOTIFICATION. TROUBLE IS AFOOT.

It'd actually be perfectly reasonable for the Chief to send you out on this assignment without a partner, since he'd figure the militiaman would have your back. You could check that by looking up the assignment roster for the day and seeing if this task is only slotted for one officer, as well as checking if and where Weathers has been assigned. Then you can head out if it checks out, or track down Weathers if you actually could bring him along.

I think it would be a good idea to find Weathers.
Even if this is supposed to be a relatively simple assignment if things go to shit you've got nobody to rely on apart from the soldier assholes, and I'd rather we didn't owe douche-bags like that anything.
So yeah despite how potentially incompetent Weathers might be he's better than nobody at all .
Oh wait, if Massey isn't busy do you think you could bring her as a show of good faith? Is that allowed if she is?

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/13(Sat)02:56 No. 524174 ID: 9f5a86
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> Maybe you can give your tech guy a call to locate Weather's police tracker thingy. You guys have those right?

Our Identity Chips carry a special function that monitors the user's health. If the user were to be badly injured or dead, it would send a distress signal to our emergency branch. Signals can also be transmitted manually if they were in danger. Other than that, there is no way to track an individual down.

> You could check that by looking up the assignment roster for the day and seeing if this task is only slotted for one officer, as well as checking if and where Weathers has been assigned. Then you can head out if it checks out, or track down Weathers if you actually could bring him along.

I use my PDA to access the online assignment roster. His name is under mine, which means he is definitely stuck following my tail for the day. I sigh in frustration. I don't want to keep them waiting, but I have to look for the rookie.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/13(Sat)02:56 No. 524175 ID: 9f5a86
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After some time hastily checking around the entire building, I finally find Weathers in the day room on the first floor, staring at the television in a trance.

Ask him if he had trouble sleeping since he seems to be daydreaming. But don't let the conversation drag on, you can talk more on the way to your assignment.

Probably had a bad night by the looks of it, tell him to gear up.
Best not to get into whatever's troubling him right now, he's bound to strike up some awkward conversation topic whilst your on the job anyhow.

ask him how's he doing, then tell him to gear up you guys got some work to do today and you're already late.

Hey, kid, you okay?

Then ask him to gear up and stuff. He's stuck with you again, and you've got a prisoner to collect.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/14(Sun)18:14 No. 524535 ID: 9f5a86
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> ask him how's he doing, then tell him to gear up you guys got some work to do today and you're already late.

I walk up to Weathers and say, "Weathers. Kid, you okay?" while gently nudging him. He responds late and with surprise.

"Oh, hey," he says softly.

"We got some work to do. C'mon."

"Oh." He slowly gets up. "Alright, I'll change real quick."

"You alright?" I ask him as he shuffles out the room.

"Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine," he replies.

Sgt. Aiden Schar 2013/07/14(Sun)18:14 No. 524536 ID: 9f5a86
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Together we make our way to the site through a more industrial zone of the Middle city. It's an eventful morning, as usual. As we move along, I ask, "You sure you're alright? You look like you had trouble sleeping."

"I slept just fine," Weathers says, trying to sound assuring. I don't know what else to say, but I don't want him to get too distracted by his thoughts in case things were to go awry. Further down the road, the area becomes less defined, structures and heaps of random objects speckled in a random fashion. There appears to be a higher concentration of feranthros roaming around too. While keeping aware of my surroundings, I look back to Weathers, who also seems to have noticed...or maybe he's just lost in deep thought again. Should I just leave him alone or try to see what his problem is?

If you pry he'll probably just get defensive and secretive. Have you told him what you're doing here? Might be good to tell him, it would also give you a chance to gauge his response to see where his head's at.

Don't talk about it now. If Weathers has a problem it'll be better to bring it up behind closed doors not on the job. Distractions are a bad idea given the current situation in public.

>>524536
Geez, keep your weapon lowered if you're not planning on shooting someone.