Heist the Colours (RP)

It was late. Like "3 a.m. or later" late. Rafael was at the same bar as every Friday. "Lucky Chance" with a little neon lady waving with her leg atached to the board-sign above the entrance. He hated that place. He even tried different bars in town. But he hated them even more.

"Raf... only few more weeks and you will have this 'trip' to the Depot fixed... keep yourself together... for that time... a little bit longer... and you will get your ship... your freedom... and you will be able to leave that damn planet with another corrupted government behind" - Rafael tried to convince himself in his thoughts... to keep his composure... and not start screaming in frustration. But to be honest... few glasses of not-so-bad whiskey wasn't helping him with that. And then he received a call... strange considering the time... it was(...)

A man sits down on the bar stool next to Rafael. "You should probably ditch that phone soon. You know that's how they track people, right?" It's obvious that he's making a joke from the grin on his face. Well... Half joking at least. He's wearing a light-grey coat that's covering most of his outfit. A hint of shirt and tie can be seen around his neck at the front. His nose is holding up a pair of small oval glasses. He looks to be about 50 years old, but those who get the chance to look closer might notice that this man is actively trying to look older than he is, for whatever reason.

"I'm guessing you can't sleep either." Ronny continues after Raf finishes his phone call, now with a slight friendly smile and gestures to the bartender to bring whatever Raf's having.

Come on, Catherine, you're better than this.

Catherine Asumoto sprinted down the corridor and ducked into the sleazy bar, trying to quickly blend into the crowd. Seconds later, a figure appeared in the doorway; unmistakably male, and apparently quite angry. He scanned the room and Cat grabbed the man nearest to her at the bar--a bespectacled, well-dressed man--and pressed her lips to his, turning her face away from the door. The man at the entrance lingered a few seconds and then left. Cat released her "lover" and sighed heavily.

Ronny is surprised by the sudden kiss. But his days as a spy have trained him to analyze situations at a moment's notice. From the corner of his eye he notices the angry male figure and he decides to play along with the woman's action.

"I should come to this bar more often, it seems." He says out loud afterward. Hmm, she looks familiar. Where have I seen her before? Is what goes through his mind when he gets a better look at Cat. "Disgruntled boyfriend? Barkeep, a drink for the lady."

Cat smiles in response. "Thank you. Yes, he just couldn't seem to accept the fact that I needed my space. I'm Catherine, but my friends call me Cat."

Rafael after answering the call from X interrupted it by: "Wait just a second X" - and put it on hold.
"Oh... Ronny... you really have this something in you... Cat never welcomes me this way." - he laughed shortly, visibly amused by the situation.

"So this is the Noble Lady" - where 'noble' was uttered with a real sneer - "I was telling you about Ronny. What is good: she need us and we need her - fair trade in my book. But I was quite sure that you have met before?" - Raf asked with raised eyebrows.

"Don't mind me - if you want to kiss some more - as I must answer this call now." - he ended with a chuckle.
"Yes Lio? I'm back. Had sudden attack on my friend to handle..." - saying that, he winked to Ronny and Cat

Ronny laughs along with Rafael's jokes. "Yes, I believe I've seen Cat before. But never been formally introduced." Since the word 'noble' was mentioned, he takes Cat's hand and kisses it gallantly. Then utters a word in some alien language. "Enchantée." Probably butchering its pronunciation.

"Nice to put a face to a name. Please, have a seat." He's about to gesture to the bar stool next to him when he changes his mind. "Actually, let's get a booth. A bit more privacy couldn't hurt." He gets up, hands Cat her drink and walks to one of the booths to sit down there.

Aside from being quite well-dressed, Ronny does not generally come across as noble. However, his career has taught him to blend in with his surroundings.

"Yes, let’s get a booth. That way we can talk freely," Cat replies, seeking out an open booth.

Lio is walking through the city's mall, the shops are closing. Iron shutters are rattling down in front of the neon-lit display windows.
hmmm. This late already? Better make my way home.
Allthough the mall is closing up there are still many people walking around, it seems they are all in a rush, like ants when you throw a stick in the heap. Something is stirring, festering even, Lio can feel it in the air.

...Time to get off this shitty planet... better sooner than late...

In his mind he is going over 'the plan'. It is a good plan, it still needs some tweaking and fine tuning, but he is confident it will work.
Approaching the exit his phone starts buzzing.

That's weird, it's past 11...

An automated voice that sounds way too familiar puts him on edge.
This is an official message from K5289/9. Please hold

Lio knows exactly what he is going to say when he hears the click.
"I QUIT!" He nearly shouts the words and ends the call immediatly. Some passers by give him a strange look, a few of them nod approvingly.

Not 10 seconds later the buzzing starts again. But this time the caller beats him to it and starts talking before Lio can open his mouth... or is there some part of him that actually wants to know what this is all about?

''LIO! Don't hang up! Ricky is in trouble"

Ricky, Ricky... Who is Ricky? A shopper carrying a milion bags bumps into him mumbling an excuse, Lio doesn't even notice.

" Are you talking about majo... But the voice cuts him off.
"Not over the phone, meet me at the place you were exactly 3 months ago" with a click the call ends.

Not many people would know the exact location they were last week, let alone 3 months. But he knows, oh how he knows.

Major Richard 'warhead' Bodson was his commanding officer on several missions, the man once saved his life. The kinda guy that would stand behind (or in front) his team no matter what. Lio could not ignore this call. The place the caller spoke off was at least an hour's drive from the city center. Public transportation would be the smart thing to do in this situation but there was no time. He wistled for a cab and when it came near the license plate made him smile "fresh-p". It reminded him of yet another navy companion, the clown of the troop, funny coincidence.

He gave the driver some instructions. The man didn't ask questions but the look on his face said enough. Why would somebody want to go to an abandonned factory in the middle of the night. A quick stop at his appartement to get his medical gear, he had a feeling this was going to be bad.

Arriving at the factory he tipped the driver too much. "you were never here" All the cabs had trackers, but maybe this would keep the driver from telling his friends.

Lio walked the last 300 meters to the entrance. He knew exactly where to go, third door to the right, then down the stairs to the basement. Open the hatch and descent further down by ladder. A room filled with empty storage cabinets but only one of them would lead to the primitive surgery hidden in the adjacent room.

Opening the ssecret door in the storage cabinet he found himself bading in white light. A man lay grunting on the center table, blood dripping from the table into a puddle on the floor.

"How many?"
"4 entry wounds sir"
"How long?"
"It's been a couple of hours, 3 max. We did everything we could"
The orders came natural to Lio
"Both of you, disinfect and put on some gloves, they're in my gear, give me some too"
Lio injected an anesthetic and started operating You are not going to die major, not on my watch

Sweat is dripping from his brow as he cuts the thread on the last stitch.

"Listen up you 2. This man will be out for at least another 2 hours, afterwards he will need a lot of rest. Make sure he gets to safety. I don't want to know what caused this and will be leaving now. Questions?"

The 2 soldiers in the room saluted as if he was a senior officer, little did they know...

"He wanted you to have this errr sir" A brown envelope was handed to him. In it a small paper, more of a napkin actually. Only a few words were scribbled on it.

It's on, get out if you can

Lio takes his gear and rushes out without a word. His mind is thinking a milion things at a time, most of them are swear words.

"Raf, it's Lio, I hear from the background noise where you are. I've got some bad news. Stay put"

If only he would have made the cabdriver wait. No other choice but to hitchhike to town. He pulls his long overcoat close so possible rides won't see the bloodstains on his clothes.

I better go home and change first

On hold... He bloody put me on hold

Of course Lio didn't wait for Raf to 'unhold' him. What the hell was he thinking. Hold... I'll show him hold!
Disgruntled Lio enters the bar to give Raf a piece of his mind. The bar is not crowded, but still there are a lot of people at this late hour. making a lot of noise. He stands in the entrance looking to find his companion. A woman is sitting in the booth.

...

Ronny joins Cat at the booth, takes a sip of his drink and makes some light conversation while waiting for Raf.

But when Rafael refocused on the call... all he heard was a long, static signal.

"Our Big Doctor's got ants in his pants these days... I hope he doesn't let it affect the careful approach we need to take, before time runs out."
A quick, but worrying thought came to Rafael's mind as he realized Lio hadn't even waited for him for this short time. He quickly ran through his mental checklist of what they still needed to do to pull off the heist. These thoughts were interrupted briefly by a woman who, sitting alone at a table in the corner, abruptly got up from her seat. She must have received an urgent call or message. She passed Rafael, tossed some credits on the bar and left as if she was being pursued. Rafael watched her leave, feeling her subtle but still perceptible perfume and a sense of regret.

"A shame. We could have had some really nice... conversations... in bed... after I settle things with Ronny. But duty comes first."
- Rafael smiles sadly, remembering how his father always spoke of duty and discipline... little did Rafael know back then how much he would need those in his adult life. Rafael would give almost anything to listen to one of his father's "sermons" once more. Now all he has left of his family is a strong desire for duty and discipline and a few memories.

Rafael glanced for a second at Ronny and Cat, who were apparently having a casual conversation at the booth, just as he was about to call Lio back. At that moment, the door opened again and he saw Lio standing there. By the look on his face, Lio wasn't happy about Rafael putting him on hold... but that wasn't what set Rafael on high alert. Rafael could already feel adrenaline starting to flow through his veins, even though nothing seemed to be happening... yet.

Lio and Rafael had been tight for a long time, from their days at medical university when they were fellow students. But as with many old friends, you know you can trust them, you stay in contact with them, you even think about them during holidays, but sometimes you don't see each other for months or even years. But when you call them, they'll be there for you. It was similar with Lio and Rafael. They had been in constant contact for the past few weeks, but they hadn't seen each other in the "meat space"(as the kids call it) for almost a year.

And now Lio was there. In person. Standing in the bar doorway, looking for Rafael. Even though Rafael hadn't seen his friend for such a long time, he instantly knew...

something was very wrong.

Raf moved nervously on his seat with a gesture resembling a hand wave, to attract Lio attention and stayed where he was not to make too much commotion in the bar and not draw too much eyes on them.

Ronny looks up when he hears the sound of the door. From where he was sitting, he couldn't quite see who had entered, but the expression of Rafael's face had changed from someone telling jokes on the phone to something nervous or worried. His hand moves instinctively to the body pistol inside his coat.

Most places on the good side of town would check for weapons at the door. The body pistol, however, didn't set off any alarm unless they used the most expensive scanner. No small business could afford that upkeep cost.

With a subtle head movement, he lets Catherine know something's going on.

Lio picked up on Raf's hand gesture. He glanced at the booth one more time.
Could that be her? Must be...
Lio takes the stool on Raf's left side. The last couple of hours were rough and as he takes a seat, a fatigue comes over him.

"A water and a whisky please. Or better yet, make that 2 whiskies
When the bartender puts the glasses in front of him, Lio downs the glass of water and one of the whiskies.
He shakes his head to get rid of the burning in his throat and looks at Raf.

"We have a problem. The deadline just got moved forward, we need to leave ASAP"

Then, with a nod of his head he continues:

"Who's the lady over there in the booth with Ronny? If she is who I think she is, we might wanna join them and discuss our actions"

Rafael eyes widened when his brain processed the information about the deadline and what it really means... he read Lio correctly... He wouldn't have bothered to go here personally if it wasn't something so important. So... it has begun.

The war is coming...

After long few seconds when Raf was trying to figure out what they should expect and do in this situation, he woke up from his thoughts and finally answered Lio question in short emphatic sentences: "Yes. It's Cat. This: Catherine. Good she is here today. Maybe we are not completely out of luck then. Let's go to her and Ronny. Time to put our plans in motion." - with assuring nod of the head Rafael started to walk towards mentioned booth.

---

Raf already knew what his friend was going to say to others. But hearing it with his own ears somehow made even stronger impression on him. He started to be a little nervous. Just a little. It wasn't fear. It was something resembling... anger... connected with a thought that if they won't act very fast, all of their recent preparations they were making for weeks and even months until now... could burn to ashes. With single decision of some unknown military general or conspiracy leader!
"Fuck! It won't happen! Not this time! I will not allow any freaking official or self-proclaimed leader of some fucking cult - or what it is - ruin my plans again. NO!" - if someone would pay attention to Raf he would see how his eyes are burning because of such thoughts and determination.

At this moment Raphael was deprived of any restraints and stoped to care how much "the team" they are or aren't already(at least for now) and simply moved to putting their plan in motion:
"I hope you all remember how we planed all of this?" - he checked his "so called friend" faces to get to know if he has their attention - "I have this guy - the name is Bob - he work as currier at the star port, mainly making trips to Depot and back here again with cargo or personel. He will be our transport to the Depot. He owns me a BIG favor, so he won't have too much questions and will help us make everything look legit. For this we can trust him." - a weak smile resurfaced on Raf face, as he would have more "pressure points" on Bob... than simply a favor.

"But still we have to get to the starport. Be allowed to depart from there. And even to fly towards the Depot. So probably getting a believable service order or something like that issued for work there will be still necessary. And somehow to get the proper clearance that will allow us access to proper decks. Can all of you tell me - once more - how are you going to do your part and if you are ready to do it..." - Raphael hesitated for a moment - "no later than tomorrow, before evening?"
"Or we have even less time? Lio!?"

Waiting in suspense for answers from every participant of "this little heist of theirs", Raf remembered something suddenly:
"And Ronny... I know you have a new love now..." - Raf he couldn't help but make that mocking remark, even considering the current situation, referring to what happened with Cat - "but is your old love still willing to work with us on this?" - Raf ended this with dead serious expression.

He really felt the clock ticking, so he knew they will have to fill all the details on their way to the next "checkpoint". And they should depart there as soon as they can.

"F*ck" was the first word out of Ronny's mouth when hearing the news from Lio and Raf. "Already? I hate doing a rushed job." He's noticeably annoyed by all of this.

When Rafael mentions his old and new love, Ronny smirks. "She was last time I saw her. She's not going to be happy with this new deadline though, that's for sure." He takes another sip of his drink. "I'll get her to join. It's the only way to get out without instantly alerting the authorities."

"Tomorrow it is then." He reluctantly agrees. "Best time to do it would be when the day shift goes home and the night crew comes in. That gives us a small window where people are packing up, talking, or settling in."

"Sounds good," Cat nods her assent. "I'm ready to go."

Lio looks over his shoulder to see if no one is eavesdropping , but the people left in the bar are clearly too busy with there drinks and companions to pay any attention to what they are talking about.

'' This friend of yours, Bob. Does he know which ship we want to take, I can't stress enough the importance of boarding the right vessel! If the codes don't match we will be sitting ducks.''


Lio entrusted Raf with the mission he is on, he will tell the others when they are well on their way. He just can't risk Cat or Ronny aborting the heist and knowing about the secret aboard.

He wishes they would have more time to prepare...

"Bob only knows what he needs to know: that we need our lift to the Depot. And we have some errand there to do. Maybe he even things that we are there to do some actual job for depot's officials... but he have seen enough in his life that it is highly unlikely." says Rafael with not small dose of certainty about Bob stance towards their action. "I have exact ID numbers for our ship and the half of the starting codes. The second part was supposed to be in Cat hands... right around... lets see... the date... today! Catherine?" - that was the question Raf wanted to ask Cat the moment he saw her... so the tension and excitement naturally resurfaced on Raf face and in his words... even though he have done everything he could to hide it.

Trying to move his thoughts on different things other then bad answer that he could get right now, he added:
"So it means two things:
- First: we really must have a legit job order at the Depot - not to leave Bob in a bad light... and possible life time prison after we finally leave this damn planet. He is not my friend. But I don't betray people I work with. I hope you have came here with it Lio?""- Second: We really need the hacker to find the ship and unseal it when we will be up there... - as Lio rightly pointed out. So some computer love will be necessary. But as Ronny said - it looks like we have his friend on board for this.

So... Cat: do you have them?" - Expectation was etched on Raf face.

Ronny watches, drink in hand, while the others talk about the ship codes. He was glad the others had that sorted already.

When 'the hacker' is mentioned, he speaks up. "Right. Let me go and call her. I'll see if she's available for a chat in person. Best not to discuss these things on the phone. You never know who's listening in." His job as a spy had made Ronny a bit paranoid. He wasn't sure yet whether that was a good or a bad thing. Some things you just can't get out of your head once you know about it.

10 years ago, as a bit of a shady merchant, he would have just cowboyed his way through. But he had new skills now. Deception and diplomacy can get things done with a lot less backlash, he found out.

He pulls his phone out of his inner pocket, gets up and heads to the restroom. "I'll be right back."

"I have them," Cat replies, assuring Raf. She was getting more nervous by the minute and was ready to be underway.

Lio is getting anxious.
"I would like to suggest that we split up when Ronny is back, I have some stuff to acquire for the trip. Now that I think of it, do any of you want me to buy specific medicines? I have the standard stuff, but drugs like anti-rad or stims might come in handy too. Then, in the morning I will make the phone-call to the depot with the message that our team can start earlier than expected. Make sure you all look like construction workers!!! Put all your gear in sturdy boxes or crates, a construction worker with a briefcase is a bit suspicious"

He smiles when he makes that last remark, he knows they are not stupid.

Ronny returns just in time to hear the last bit Lio says about their appearance tomorrow.

"Alright, we're in luck. I mentioned that things are going south faster than we expected. She's not happy about it, but agreed to meet up with me in half an hour to work out what can be done in such a quick timeframe."

He looks at the others and adds. "Thanks for the drink." At this, picks up his glass from the table and downs what was left.

"Good plan Lio. We will indeed… construct our future tomorrow…" - Raf smiled to this thought that happened to come out loud from his mouth. Then he continued referring to Lio: "we really don’t know in what state the ship will, serviceable- that’s for sure - but that doesn’t mean flawless unfortunately. So some ani-rads in case of some emergency thinkerking with reactor would be needed - won’t hurt. Also… I hope it will be a fast action, but you never know… so something to keep us at high performance for the job time, not making us addicts in the same time… you know? And maybe you have some combat drugs left from your lovely time at the army? Could be fun too…" - RAF winked to Lio ending last sentence. "Tell us how much it will cost you. I’m sure everyone here will be happy to add some funds to our life insurance account."

"I will contact Bob immediately we left this place. Do you think we need some heavier gear loaded on his ship in advance? From tomorrow morning?" - Raphael thought for a moment. "Or you will show us some hidden locker with some combat drone only at Wilsons - Lio?" - Raf’s eyes flashed for a moment, even though he new it was highly unlikely, he knew that asking the right questions in the right moment could… bring some amazing effects… or nothing at all.

"Good to hear Ronny. You need my assistance with this meeting? Or someone’s else? But I wouldn’t suggest Cat for this role… we don’t know how BunBun would take this… change… in composition of our ranks." - RAF was known for being sometimes to honest or blunt for his own good… depending how one is seeing it.

To those at the table who don't know, Ronny explains that BunBun is what Abby goes by online. "It's not a weird pet-name I came up with if that's what you're thinking." He checks his watch "I'm good on my own, Raf. I'll see you all tomorrow. 1700 hours." and heads out the door.

Ronny finds his way through the streets to Abby's house. She looks happy to see him, but it's highly likely that that's just a facade. He tells her the things that they discussed at the bar. Things that were a bit too sensitive to say over the phone. After going over the 'plan', Ronny says an awkward good night and takes a cab home to get some rest.

"HOW MUCH!?! Bob... fuck... you are real pain in the ass. Why don't you support hard working people like yourself and only want to screw us off?? You know that we are going to install there some medical facilities for emergency cases? You could be using one of those yourself some day... not that I'm wishing you this... but you know... it's better to have an option."

After taking a deep breath:
"Sihhh... don't be a complete asshole and do it for Cr1,500 like every decent person would do... and I know deep down, under this ugly face... there is somewhere this decent guy that I have seen once when we were up to our necks in shit, back in the day at Fiberville's sea docks. You still remember this action?"

Text massage to Lio:
Lio, are there any meds that could help us withstand in good condition higher gravity then 1G for prolonged periods of time? You know if we would like to have some fun... with thrusters?

Ronny reads Abby's messages in the morning. He writes back while drinking a cup of coffee. "I'll join you, I need to do some shopping myself anyway. I'll meet you at the corner of 42nd and Heverlee in 45 minutes." He grabs his things, making sure he's got his gun with him and heads out the door to walk to the subway.

Raf feels that he could barter down the price even more. Opens his mouth to say something about the very important information that he will share with a Bob, just after the job. And that he could pay him Cr1000 in advance and they will talk how this information is indeed valuable at that moment. But...

Rafael takes a moment to look at Bob... Looking at him... and seeing a real person, with his joys and cares - not only some persona that Bob is "wearing" all the time.

Yes... indeed... he is one of those - not so many - people on this damn planet he probably, could, even... call a... friend. Even though he don't like him that much in general. But still he is someone he can count on. Day and night. And he can never see him again if Bob decides to not join them...

"Who knows what war will bring?"

"Good. Bob. We have a deal. It is a pleasure doing business with you!" - Raf says and leaves Bob's cabin. Probably leaving him a little mesmerized by the nice tone of his last words. Because it was a habit for them to throw the most elaborate insults at every possible opportunity at each other.

Lio is on his way to his local (underground) pharmacist when he gets Raf's text.
Hmm gravity blockers, I think I've read about this once, small chance Phill will have those in stock. No harm in asking though...
He doesn't take the effort of texting back.
Around the corner a long line of grey buildings pops up, each with a covered staircase on the outside leading down to its basement. Lio counts the closed shutters and stops at the fifth house.
He takes a moment to look around, the street is empty, except for the homeless woman sleeping under a tree at the corner of the street.
Lio opens the shutter and walks down the stairs. A second door gives blocks his path. He's been here lot's of times and holds his eye to the retinascanner without thinking. The door slides open and a light breeze carrying the stench of different types of chemicals fills his nose.
Love it

-"haven't seen you in a while!" Phill smiles as he thinks of the Credits he's about to receive.
°"Yeah I know, been busy with doing nothing... Sorry Phill but I don't have much time, I have a list of stuff I need"

Phill holds out his hand to receive the list.

°"It's in my head Phill, I'm not an idiot. I need a pack of stims, 12 doses, 8 doses of anti-rad, 10 panaceas and one dose of no questions asked" Lio Laughs at his own joke.
"If possible I'ld prefer a package price. Oh, and do you have anything to counter gravity disease?"

"nevermind than Phill. Got to run now"
Lio pays the guy, before he walks through the door he turns around. "you might want to stock up... there's something buzzing in the streets, remember it was me who tipped you off next time I'm low on meds" He winks and heads back out.

Lio runs his to-do list in his head on his way to Heverlee.
- Shoulderbag: medical supplies, gun and some high energy food.
- Money
- Phone
- computer and heavier medical stuff all boxed and shipped.

He still has the feeling he forgot something important.

Cat smiles disarmingly at Abby, happy to have another female on the crew. "I'm Catherine," she offers a hand, "But please call me Cat."

Once at Abby's place, Ronny sees that pile of stuff that she's planning on taking with her. "You know we don't have a truck, right?" He says half-joking. "Good to see you again, Cat."

Ronny opens up his suitcase, in which he has mostly clothing, and pulls out a folded up duffle bag. "This will come in handy." He puts it down and starts loading some of Abby's things into it. "I got a few things to pick up too, but I can do it on our way there."

Arriving at the corner of 42 and Heverlee, Lio doesn't really know where to go next. He texts Ronny to let him know he his standing outside.
Only a few moments later a door opens and a familiar face gestures for Lio to come in.
Abby's place smells... funny. Not bad, not good, just different, intrigueing.
"Hi I'm Lionel, but everyone calls me Lio"
Lio looks at Ronny's suitcase and some other stuff lying around.
"Errr, did you arrange for your gear to get delivered at bob's? I have some toolcases left at my place if you need some. Maybe Raf can pick them up on his way here, I'll text him the doorcode"

"Nice place you have Abby, can I trouble you for a glass of water?"

Just after a brief moment when Lio have sent a message to Rafael, he is writing back:
Inbound. In 20 seconds. Look through the window;)

If Lio or other is doing that, he would see quite calm and almost ordinary street. Nothing really happens. But THEN... after exactly 20 secounds one could hear loud engine roar from a car probably devoid of a muffler. What wouldn't be possible in the capital city as such car would be caught by the police in matter of seconds. So that could only mean one thing: someone has custom made car with... mechanically detachable muffler at ones will. And doing it now only for the effect.

And that someone is: Bob. His van suddenly appears around the corner, taking the curve with a drift as like he would be in some kind of race. Driving towards Abbys building with no sign of slowing down. Parking the vehicle with a well measured slide, just between two other cars calmly standing in front of the building:
In a haze of tire smoke Rafael and Bobs get out of the car. Bob as the driver of course. Raf waves with his hand if someone was watching and goes to the back of the car with Bob. They take out some boxes and goes upstairs to Abby's place.

"Hi Abby. Hi Rest. Long time no see. This is Bob if someone don't know him yet. The best pilot for small craft and driver you can get in this town." - Raf is visibly driven by recent events and current rush of them.

Without any discretion towards Abby, Raf says to Ronny: "It's good that you anticipated that, Ronny. Here are the Lio's boxes. Let's pack it and go. Streets are getting more nervous with each second. I can feel it. And somehow I like it..." - there was a mix of being happy that finally they are doing something - not only waiting - and something resembling of satisfaction about the things that are happening on this planet - that Raf were sure will happen sooner than later - on Rafaels face.

"Then we can go get others staff. Ronny? And Bob will leave us at the meeting place and take the cargo to his ship. Waiting there for our arrival at star port, with hot engines. Yes, Bob?" - not waiting for his answer, expecting just a nod, Raf continues: "Or we need something else, that any of you were afraid to tell us before? It's the last time you can get your courage up...".

Leaving them few moments to collect their mind after their energetic entrance, Raf's focus on the thing moving in the cage placed on the table near the window.
"And what's this? You leaving him there? I hope you found someone to take care of him when we leave?!? Ronny always was telling me that you have a good heart - in the end of the day?!? So?" - and Raf gave Abby this specific look...

Ronny is busy helping Abby with her stuff when he hears the loud roar coming from the street below. "What kind of maniac is driving down there?!?" He asks Lio and Cat in case one of them is near a window. "Someone should shoot their tires out."
Of course Ronny didn't mean that literally, he just couldn't stand loud noises for very long.

When Rafael and Bob show up, he gives them a look at first and takes Raf to one side to talk privately. "Could you not find a more inconspicuous ride, Raf? I mean I'm glad we've got something to move our gear, but that thing stands out like a snake at a worm convention." He shakes his head, but then calms down a bit again. "Sorry, I'm a bit on edge. I know you're doing what you can."

"Yeah, I guess we should pack it all in and get going." He looks around the room and asks genuinely "Any objections or comments?"

"Oh... Ronny, Ronny... it's always a good thing to have such a 'voice of reason' like you in ones team." - Raf tapped Ronny with apparent genuine appreciation.

"Bob can make his car silent as a bike with one press of a button. Right Bob?" - Raf this time was visibly waiting for the confirmation...

"The guy was workin on this... completely useless muffler system..." - he stoped to make mockery and innocent smile towards Bob - "for at least half a year now. Didn't had heart to not allow him to use it to make a proper introduction of himself. Before the action. Trust me you don't want to work with him when he is... sad... or angry... Besides we wanted to celebrate the fact that we are finally moving for the thing we were planing for so long... Even Bob was bored doing nothing... for so long... and to bore the guy - it's not an easy task. Right, Bob? " - another gaze towards Bob with laughing eyes of Raf.

Raf seat himself comfortable at the nearby armchair and with the last struggle of will resist to put his legs on Abby's table.

Listening to what Abby said about the animal:
"What!? You want to bring an animal to my... I mean our ship?!? Ronny, you knew about this?"

Lio doesn't know what to think of Bob, why would he and Raf draw all that attention to them? He wasn't going to repeat Ronny's thoughts on "the introduction", instead he looked out of the window, searching the street for people attracted by all the ruckus. Was that a curtain stirring?
"Ronny is right, we should get moving" He says without turning his head.
" Abby, tell us what you want to take with you, we will pack it."
Lio takes one of the crates and opens the lid, looking at Abby and waiting for her to start pointing.

"Alright, but let's try to keep a low profile from now on. We want to avoid trouble best we can." Ronny says, having come to terms with what's going on. You can't control everything, Ronny. Just stay focused.
"Happy to have you on board, Bob. And thanks for the ride. We really needed one."

In the foyer, it suddenly dawns on Ronny just how much stuff Abby is taking with her. When he sees the chance, he talks privately to Catherine. "Uhm, Cat. Could you maybe convince Abby that she needs to leave some of these things here? I don't think she wants to be hearing this from any guy, especially not her ex-boyfriend." He takes a look at all the bags again. "I'm not even sure it would fit."

Cat approaches Abby and quietly says, "Abby, we're looking to travel light and fast. Is there anything here that you don't need? Ooh, wait! What's this? This is so cool!"

Rafael - who had already cooled down a bit after the wild ride with Bob - on the borders of his consciousness, had some reproaches with himself about the fact that he really should have limited the amount of attention they attracted when approaching Abby's block. However, it was not a good time to repent or even officially admit such thoughts. They had a job to do. Now. Besides... he knew full well that he could vent his frustration in many other... much worse ways...

Hearing Lio's question about what to pack, he looked around the room. Then he understood why Ronny had been looking at so many bags quite meaningfully and whispering then sending Cat to Abby.
"As practical as ever, Ronny. And that's what I like about you." - he thought.

"Abby... I appreciate that you took our task very seriously. And you want to be ready for anything. Have an answer for anything thing that may happen to us. And anticipate all the creations you might need...

Like any excellent security specialist should. I admire it. But.. you know we're going to Wilsons to build a medical module? You don't think that the amount of stuff you've prepared here might arouse some suspicion? Besides, when we get there, we'll have to unload our equipment very quickly. To get to the work right away. I don't think you would be happy if we would have to leave something from those wonderful things there ?" He looked at her carefully and then straight in the eyes before finishing his argument.

"Maybe I don't know too much about it, but isn't it like in your hacker's world that the best security is the one you can't see? And with all that stuff... someone's bound to see our moves.

Do you think you could implement some kind of filter on your baggage list? Something like: 'clothes for three days + the most important equipment for the job'? You know the drill: one-line query and the results ar perfectly tailored? Leave the rest here. If we can... we'll come back for that... but you know how it is...?

Besides, we need to leave as soon as possible. As you heard from the comments of my - much more reasonable colleagues - we don't want Bob to show us how fast he can drive... again."

Lio is considering chiming in. But also a little afraid to break the fragile team-bond early on in the mission.
He decides to keep his mouth shut, for now. Raf made some excellent points and hopefully she'll see reason. All this is just too much.
It also feels a bit unfair to make everyone travel light and cut stuff, and let Abby bring her entire wardrobe.

Hehe WARdrobe, maybe it will come in handy.

Lio checks the room, luckily everybody is too preoccupied with Abby's luggage to see him smile. That could have sent the wrong message.

"What you say Abby?" - Raf asked being honestly curious how will his speech get to Abby.

Cat is taken aback by Abby's sudden aggressiveness, but recovers quickly. "Hey!" she protests, "We're all on the same side, here! It was only a suggestion."

Cat's brow furrows, but she lets the matter drop. Better not to make waves before this venture even gets off the ground.

Lio feels the room getting colder.
'' I'll start loading the van. Cat, care to lend me a hand?''
He doesn't wait for an answer and takes the first full box and carries it downstairs.

Raf smiles with very wide smile, showing his white teeth.
"Thanks Abby. I know it is hard and new to you. But I knew we would come the the agreement." - then starts to help Lio with Abby's bags. Stoping in exit door he noticed that Bob is still waiting for an answer to his proposition, he throws at him:

"Bob. Bags. Use your muscles. Not imagination. Being fast with cars and crafts is usually a good thing. With women... not always. Let the lady get to know your wonderful personality first." - saying that he leaves after Lio downstairs to the car.

Ronny looks at the giant piece of metal that Abby calls 'her computer' and sighs. "If we can pick up the Cryogen XX4300 portable, which you've subtly brought up the last 4 times we've talked..., on the way, can this one stay here?"

The question didn't really need an answer. "Fine, I think I know a place. But you really owe me, Abby!"

He also gets to loading the van. Although, that's mostly because he's not keen to get in between whatever is going on with Abby and Cat. He can do without that drama right now.

Cat follows Lio out to the car. "Yeah, I know. It's just... I tried to be polite and nice."

"Well... I don't have my hands on it just yet, but I know where one is. With what's about to happen on this planet, I'm sure nobody will be missing it." Ronny replies, still leaving out just where and how they'd get one.

He checks his watch. "We've got to hurry up and get to our dealer or we'll be too late." He says to everyone and nobody in particular.

"Let's park the car like 2 streets from the meeting place, so Bob could drive there in 3 seconds with a heavy support - if there will be such need. I will stay even closer, hiding behind nearby shop. Keep your comms on the whole time..." - Raf hesitated, searching for the right word - "...team."

"Or you want me by your side there, Ronny? Or someone else? I don't know the guy, but too much people can make some folks... shy... for the lack of better word." - Raf smiled to himself imagining a shady, but shy dealer.

'' I'm gonna stay in the car, no need to spook the contact, as Raf said ''
This isn't a place he would normally visit...

"I wouldn't mind having some muscle as backup." He looks around at the people involved in this heist. "... On second thought, anyone with a gun will do. Raf, how about you? Or maybe one of the girls is up for distracting this dude?"

"If anyone from better looking part of our team will not want to go - I go. But maybe not show them our full power from the beginning. Either way I will be nearby to cover your back Ronny. Like in our previous lives you did for me." - Raf smiled, remembering some of the better smuggling actions they did with Ronny. And get serious remembering those that didn't go so well...

"The police? In this neighborhood? I'm pretty sure they've forgotten that it exists long ago." He smirks at his own remark. "That being said, if a cop does show up here. Chances are it's not the kind that does things 'by the book'."

"Ronny is right. You can always say that, you need the AC for your health conditions Bob... or something like that. Not that you look unhealthy or so, but they may get scared just by your looks..." - Raf just felt that he couldn't leave the car without at least one more proper mockery of Bob... being curious what he will answer to him this time. Somehow keeping Bob in their reserve, ready with a car - brought better thoughts about what is going to happen to Raf.

He got out of the car onto the walkway. Standing in front of the open car's door, still holding his hand on the door's handle he adds:
"Cat are you going with them? You showed us at the bar, how distracting you can be..." - Raf smiled to her, and changed subject with serious face this time: "I'm going first - to look around and take the position behind one of these concrete buildings. At its corner made of back wall and way leading to the parking lot."

Without any other word he close the doors and does what he said.

Ronny gives Rafael a jab of his elbow when he's about to mention Cat's distraction tactics. "Alright, sounds good. Let's stay in contact as much as possible."

Lio sits in the car, waiting the others to come back. "So, Bob, tell me something about yourself. where did you learn how to dri...
He stops mid-sentence because there is some talk over the coms.

Best if I leave the chitchat for another time...

Cat loosens the top few buttons of her blouse, exposing a bit more of her cleavage. She isn't overly well-endowed, but neither is she a small girl. "Ready with the distraction," she says.

Ronny definitely averts his eyes. Abby's face is looking angry enough already. No need to make things worse. Then he gets out of the van. "It's that building over there, isn't it?"

Leaving the nice and cool interior of Bob's van that was really well taken care of - the thing that Raf would never say in Bob's presence - reminded Rafael that they are still on this dry and hot planet. Still not on their way to Rafael's most dearest dream. A dream he's been dreaming for so long. A dream of freedom. A dream of his own spaceship, shared with those only few people that he really trust... A dream of spaceship capable of interstellar travel. Travel between the stars that would never AGAIN bind him to only one planet and another corrupted government... ! A travel, that will bring them a journey. Journey that ought to take them somewhere else. Somewhere when they will be able to construct their own world, based on their rules and values.

Better world.

Hopefully.

As small as this one ship.

Or as big and powerful as those worlds that he lived on all this years - governed by the people, that should never be allowed to have any authority entrusted to them...

Finally a world... an organization as big and powerful that it could bring Rafael's home world - Ignomia - back to known maps... Also a dream... or nightmare... that Rafael refused to ever forget...

"But first things, firsts. Raf. No hacking software, no ship. Focus. From small things to big ones." - he almost ordered his thoughts to refocus on the current task.

---

After passing few streets, Rafael approached the road leading into the parking lot where the meeting is ought to take place. His initial plan was to just pass the street and hide behind one of the building that surrounded the parking lot. He never was a stealthy type. More often than not, he could be called as a loud one. He knew his strengths and weaknesses.
"There is no point to play ninja if you are the mastermind, that happen to know a lot of useful people." - he smiled at his own joke in thoughts.

Staying close, providing the backup, not bringing attention... letting Ronny work.

But... what is this? A shop? And another one? Open?
"Eh... screw it... what better place for me to hide than in plain sight?" - and with this thought Raf take a turn and goes straight into the parking lot area, towards the nearest, open shop, preferably the one with the front window having a good view on the whole area. A music shop? Here? Do they really still sell those disks?

Cat lurks near the abandoned-looking vehicles first, knowing full well that appearances can be deceiving. She is fully on alert for trouble, expecting such.

Cat looks around, trying to remain inconspicuous.

Lio lost sight of the others when they walked towards the parking lot. Did he make the right decision staying in the car?
In his mind he counts the seconds it will take to get to the parking, if things go south he will try and get there as fast as he can, gun first of course. His hand touches the grip of his gun.
Something stirs in the corner of his eye... Or did it?
'' Bob, keep your eyes open, I thought I saw something over there by the bins, it could be nothing, but...''

Raf message through the comms/smartphone to Lio:
Lio, I have found a shop with back door most likely leading to the parking lot the meeting is taking place. Going in. You can come too. Good position to be closer to action or... helping friends in need. Not bringing too much attention too early. Shop at the north wall of north building: 'Carl's Broker Record'. Actually... when you think about it... it is quite strange that there is music shop in such neighborhood... But, hey! Maybe they have this retro-disk that you were looking for, for so long... how was it called? Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode ? Or something like this?

Ronny walks into the parking lot along with Cat and Abby. "Don't worry." He says to Abby. "I've done this a million times. We talk a bit, exchange goods and we each go our separate ways." He assures her. "It's easy, really." Though, in his mind he knows how these things can go wrong at the drop of a hat. Let's hope that doesn't happen. Besides, we have backup in place too.
He lets Abby hold onto his arm, if that helps her. But does mention. "Try to look confident. That always comes across better."

As they get closer gives the area a quick scan, hoping to spot anything 'out of place'. "If there's anything wrong here, I'm sure Raf would have noticed by now. Where is he anyway? Guess he found a good hiding spot."

"Bob, Raf is asking for back-up, I'm going to take a closer look"

Lio casually opens de door and walks towards the building Raf indicated. As we walks past the bins he gives them another good look.
I would've sworn I saw something moving, maybe it was a cat,.. or a rat... I hate rats

A gust of wind blows him in the face as he rounds the corner, Lio puts up his collar. There is the sign he is looking for...

Cat climbs into the car, deliberately crawling over the Boss and exposing an ample view of her cleavage as she does so.

"Hi Carl. Nice to meet you. I guess I can call you that way? I'm Rafael Barnes by the way." - says Raf trying to look and talk casual. He looks around the shop with genuine curiosity... hesitates(or acts as such) for a brief second, but finally says:

"You know what... Carl? I'll be honest. I have a meeting set up with my friend in this area... to make some... arrangements. And I have chosen your shop to meet with him." - Raf looks now carefully at Carl's reaction - "He should come here anytime now. I planed to buy some music records as it's rude not to buy anything when you're using someone else's place." - Raf boldly says, with a particular nod of his had that was supposed to acknowledge Carl that he know what are the rules of doing businesses in "particular circles".

"But... it looks like you may be brokering other types of goods too? Pardon if my guts are misleading me... but if that wouldn't be true: I'm looking for something from terran era: Chuck Berry maybe? Any singles on retro-disc that you might be offering?"

Ronny waits to squeeze into the car last, then eyes the dealer while he's still looking at the girls. "Nice car." He says to break the ice. "I'll get straight to business if you don't mind. Do you have the software?"

"100?!?" Ronny puts on his best 'I'm offended' face. "I thought you were a businessman, not a bandit." With a bit of a difficult maneuver in this car, he pulls a small square box from the inside of his jacket. "Look, I got 80 on this card right here. Ready to go. Now I could go all the way to my car, load another 10 onto it, walk all the way back. But I think we both want to get this done quickly." He says this with the needed sarcasm and annoyed tone, deliberately making it sum up to 90.

"So, let's not waste each other's time here, huh?"

Of course, knowing full well how dangerous it can be to flaunt money during a shady deal, the box that Ronny is holding does not contain said cash. That box is 'safely' in the hands of Catherine."Abby, would you be a dear and check the software?" Ronny says very matter-of-factly. Making Abby seem more like an employee than a friend.

What...
Lio turns his head to where the sound came from. He gives a warning to Raf en Bob.

'' Raf, I just heard a car crash nearby, I'm going to have a look, there might be a problem with our friends.

Bob, do you see something?''

Lio does a 180 and walks hastly in the general direction of the sound.

Ronny lets Abby do her thing and tries to throw in some chit-chat while that's happening. "Did you hear that traffic bulletin on the radio while driving here? Apparently some maniac thinks driving is a video game. Unbelievable!"

After Abby finishes and Cat takes care of the payment, with Abby's signature, Ronny shakes the man's hand. "Yes, I'm always happy when a deal goes smoothly. The benefit of working with reputable traders, I suppose." As he opens the car door to get out, he adds. "Yes, I can definitely get in contact if need be. Take care out there." He waits just outside the car door for Abby and Cat to get out, keeping an eye on them before closing the door and letting 'the boss' drive off.

Cat tries the door on her side, finding it locked. Distastefully, she crawls back across the Boss to exit on Ronny's side. If the Boss tries to cop a feel, she slaps his hand hard enough to let him know that it is not okay.

Rafael glanced at the shop's door, to check if Lio is coming.
"He really should be here already." - he thought with very slight worry. Erasing any bad thoughts by the force of his will he turned to Carl again:

"You really have access to such oldie... and on vinyl?! Strange that I haven't found your shop earlier. Very strange. But better late then never... as the say. " - Raf added with a smile.

"Excuse me for a moment, I have a call." - Raf instinctively get further away from Carl to talk with Lio.

"Roger that Lio. Waiting for info. If those are ours I'll be on my way. Staying at the shop for next minute or so or... until some info from you or Ronny. Don't want to be further away from them if those are not them."
Message to Ronny:
"Everything OK, Ronny?"

Trying to look casual again, but being visibly stiff this time, trying to continue where they left:
"Better than never... but this time I may be in need on interplanetary shipping... any chances for that? And if yes: what else you could propose me to add to the package so I will not overpay the shipping alone? Do you recommend anything?" - Raf made another attempt to "open" this "broker" for some additional services or equipment that Raf was certain Carl is providing... besides the music. He once again glanced at his comm to check if there are any answers. Trying to hide him starting to be nervous.

When they're a safe distance from the dealer's car, Ronny checks his phone. "Ah, a message from Raf. I'll let him know we're out."

All good, Raf. We just got out with the merchandise. Heading back to Bob.

Lio picks up the pace. Bob said he saw a car passing but couldn't confirm who was in it.
chances are slim it's Ronny, but you never know...
He hastily walks past 2 blocks when he sees smoke coming from a street on his left side. His phone buzzes, it's Raf
Deal is done, everything is OKA sigh escapes Lio's lips as he comes to a halt. He is wondering what to do... He should go back to the car, but what if these people need help...? Of course he will go and have a look at the wreckage, what was he thinking, it's not like him to walk away from someone in need of medical attention.
He sends his location to Raf.
Please pick me up at my location

As he comes closer Lio sees that the car has hit a lantern right in front of the crossing, it's in really bad shape, the post sticking out in the middle of the hood is bend and dangerously looming over the roof. nothing is moving in the smoking car. There is no fire, at least not yet. The thick smoke makes it hard to get close.
This can't be good.

A sudden gust of wind blows the smoke in another direction, Lio sees only one person, a woman, she is sitting in the passenger's seat, her head in a strange angle. He opens the door and dislodges the seatbelt, fragments of glass from the broken windshield fall of her clothes. The constant wind keeps the smoke away, but Lio knows the side effect, the extra oxygen might set the car on...

WHOOOFFF

Flames sprout from the hole where the hood is curved round the lantern post. Lio pulls the woman from the car in the direction it was driving. Walking backwards towards a safe distance he stumbles over a body lying in the street. The driver is in even worse condition than the woman.
He must have gone straight through the windshield, poor guy, he was probably dead before he even hit the ground.

There's nothing Lio can do for the man, working on autopilote he checks the woman's pulse and breathing... nothing.
Lio is performing CPR as he hears a van driving into the street.

"Yes. Leaving. Quite soon... special kind of vacation." - Raf adds with forced smile. And feels the comms vibration in his jacket packet. Takes out the comm slightly too fast for his own taste and the story that he is trying to sell, but seeing the massage from Ronny visibly relaxes him.

"Just one more moment, please, this is very important. It looks that my meeting is postponed." - and sends the mentioned message to Lio.

Getting back to being his usual Raf and finally being able to put his full attention on Carl: "A courier you say?" - with this Raf eyes visibly lights up, as he feels an opportunity in his guts. But then remembers that they have more important mission on on their hands... much more important.

"You know what Carl? I don't know why " - or was it expensive but not flashy watch on Carl's wrist? - "but I feel you are this kind of person I could make long term business relationships or even, maybe friendship one day... not many people know who Chuck Berry was nowadays." - he was looking straight into Carl's eyes.

"But unfortunately I'm on tight schedule right now. And I don't make promises I can't keep. So no taking your vinyls off the planet... today... But if you could arrange this for yourself and get them to Wilsons in 3 days... I will gladly take them off the system... and deliver them to the place they are intended. Assuming that the destination and payment will be reasonable. But you look like a man with a class, that knows how to star a good friendship... So I wouldn't expect anything less than reasonable from you. So? I must be going now - unfortunately - do you want to tell me how to find your contact at the Wilsons?"On it Lio! Collecting the team and on the way to you. Everything ok? Or you felt a sudden urge for ice cream after the deal? ;)"

Lio keeps performing CPR as his friends turn up. He's getting tired, and the adrenaline is wearing off. His brain is taking over from instincts and he does some basic checks.

The woman's head is still angled in a weird way, he checks her neck. it's clearly broken.
Idiot, what a waste of energy
But right after that thought he knows in is heart that you always have to try. He stands up and looks at the scene.

Ronny opens the van's side door and gets in before helping the ladies in as well. "I'm glad that went smoothly" He says while sitting down. Then he asks Bob where Raf and Lio are.

"Yes, Carl. I promise." Raf confirms this sentence with slight nod of his head, while looking Carl in the eyes.

"We only have met, but I can see that we share at least few things: the respect for good music, old vinyls and weight of our word." - conspiratorial tone of Raf leaves not much doubt that he is now sure that there is "something more" with those vinyls.

"We will be heading towards Regnum Anima system, have some business to attend there that will influence our next destination from there. Any good music lovers in there, Carl?"

---

The true is that only "business" that Raf was planing in Regnum Anima(we had gems, so maybe royal animals now? ;) ) so far is... to do some refueling before jumping to the next system - in order to be at least 2 jumps from Gem. Plus I think our group knows exactly what their next destination - after Regnum Anima - will be - but this is information Raf don't want to share with Carl... as they have just met. So a little lie: that they don't know were they will be heading from there yet:)

When everyone is in the van. Ronny checks in with Abby again. "So, the software is good? Do we still need that new portable PC?" He's hoping the answer to that is 'no', but knows better.

"Cat, was that a slap you gave him at the end there? I struggled to keep a straight face there!"

"Let's see if we can pick up the others, Bob. I suppose you have their location?"

"20 minutes, but no more? ok Carl? I'm really on the run today. And if you can really bake them on the spot... could you make for me X album of Y? I will use it as present for someone." - Raf somehow hoped he would done fastest deal in quite a while... so now he is little disappointed that it will take 20 minutes AND... all this conspiracy - he started to imagine in his head - is just about making "fake old" vinyls and selling them off planet. But yet again, apparently the money is much better than one would thoght. So he decides not to bother about it too much."Excuse me. I will call my friends." - and Raf is again taking few steps from Carl between shops shelfs.

Calling Ronny:
"Ronny, I assume you are already at the car with the girls? I think I managed to kill two birds with one stone. Had good position to support you _and_ now I'm securing us some initial job on our way at Regnum Anima. Things are _fast_ today. But I will need 20 more minutes to wait for our package. Can this *big toy* for your g... ex-girlfriend wait so long? Maybe you will pick Lio first in the meantime? I don't know why he took neighborhood tour, but he sent me this location. Will you check on him? "
Raf sends Lio's location.

"If you would be so kind. I would love to have one of your works too." - says Rafael being visible interested and appreciating Carls craftsmanship.

As much as he would like to get to the ship as soon as possible, he definitely doesn't want to deal with a disgruntled Abby when they're locked up in space together. "You're right, I did promise. If those other two were here, we'd be able to head that way already." He continues this thought in his head only. Seriously, they were supposed to keep an eye out during the deal, not get distracted instantly. What if we needed help? That's when Ronny's phone rings.

He picks up. " Raf. Where the hell are you? ... Package? What package? ... I don't know what you're talking about... Fine, we'll go get Lio first then. But try to hurry up, will you?" Ronny does seem somewhat annoyed with Rafael's sudden business opportunity. He ends the call with a frown on his face.

"Looks like Raf is 'otherwise engaged' for a bit, so we should pick up Lio first." He leans over to show Bob the location that Raf gave him. "He's just about 2 streets away, apparently. Care to roll us over there, bud?"

"We'd better make a decision pretty damned quick! That crash is going to attract some unwanted attention."

Lio is quiet, not his usual self, this always happens after he loses someone... it is not a thing you can get used to.
"There was nothing I could do" he says to no one in particular.
He takes a seat in the van and waits for the numbness to pass.

Ronny's brain doesn't work on sentiment right now. He's in 'mission' mode and looking for practical solutions to yet another obstacle. "There's a Greg's Gas Station, not too far from here. Let's go there and get Lio cleaned up. Then we can come back for Raf after." He notices Lio's blank stare. "Can somebody try and get through to him?"

Lio snaps out of it when the bright lights of the gas station hurt his eyes.
"Good thinking Ronny, I'll be right back, I'll get everybody some drinks too."
Lio looks at his clothes, they are not bloodied, just his sleeves. Before he steps out of the car, he rolls up his sleeves, the blood already dried on his hands. He tucks his hand deep in his pockets and casually walks into the gas station. A quick look around makes him spot a security camera pointed towards the counter.

should try to avoid that one...

The toilet sign hums above his head.
The place is filthy, the toilet smells but luckily there is some soap left in de dispenser. He dries his hands on his clothing and walks over to the counter. He tries to keep his back to the camera, hoping there is only one.

"A sixpack of cooled diamond dew please, and some of those hot sausage rolls" Then he remembers the toilet.
"I'm sorry, give me a box of wilson's waffles instead."

The man grunts something, probably "pay", points to the registers and makes the money-sign with his thumb and index finger.

A witty remark is on the tip of his tongue but Lio is smart enough not to draw any attention.
He turns around in the right direction and walks back to the car. When de automatic slide door opens the man says "Thank you, come again"
Good thing he didn't see Lio roll his eyes...

Rafael carefully takes packages and checks the address. If there is nothing surprising or uncertain about it, he nods and puts the records under his arm.
"I presume it will be payment on delivery? Any contact there or just address?""No Carl. Thank you. That would be all. The guy I'm getting this for isn't too much into decorations... let's say. As you said: time is of essence - for me too. So I will be going now. It was nice to meet you. Hope it won't be the last time we do business together." - Raf shakes Carl's hand and without further ado leaves Carl's shop.

Raf heads towards the location that Lio sent him before. If the van is in front of the shop, he just get in.

Raf joins the team at the station and sees Lio leaving the station shop.. Not being aware what have happened to Lio just a few moment ago:
"You indeed went for some candy, Lio? Don't you? I appreciate your calmness. But actually, we were after the deal at that time, after all. So you are right... a little treat to celebrate - will not hurt. Got anything for me too?" - Raf smiled with anticipation, realizing that he indeed started to feel a little hungry.

"But let's eat it in the car, as probably we should already be on our way for this toy that Ronny have for Abby." - he concluded introducing some urgency in his tone.

After getting into the car and checking if everyone is there and ok:
"Went not so bad I can see. But it is good that we were prepared for other scenarios." - Raf smiles with satisfaction.

Then he adds casually:
"I used the time waiting at my position to secure us our first delivery job. Nothing big - I think - but additional funds will not hurt. We will have to get into it after we will end our work at Wilsons and around it..." - he ends with a flash in his eyes, but intentionally still not mentioning that they will have the ship to do the job... at least according to plan.

"So Ronny: where to, now?" - Raf ask with genuine curiosity.

"Ooh, I'll grab a waffle." Ronny gladly accepts the snack that Lio brought. "Yup, we got the software pretty smoothly thanks to the ladies here." He tells Raf after helping him inside. "A delivery job, huh? Good thinking. I was wondering what took you so long. It's not something that'll get us in trouble, right?"


When Rafael asks about the next destination, Ronny slips a hand into his jacket pocket and pulls out a small note. He hands it to Raf. "Tell Bob to head to this address. If I'm not mistaken it's a down town apartment building."

The short stop at the fuel station revitalized Lio. He eats and drinks.
''Nice Raf. Both the credits and the contact will come in handy.''

Cat accepts whatever is given to her without comment, eating in silence.

Bob stops the car in what seems to be a residential street. They're definitely not in the bad part of town anymore, but it's just a suburb like any other. "This should be the place." He says as he presses a button and the sound of the engine stops.

Ronny looks out of the window. "I guess it is. Says number 107 on the building there. That'll be it." He stop talking for a moment, trying to find his next words. "Look, I have to admit, I don't know what the price will be for this prototype yet. I got this address from an old ... acquaintance. Don't ask me who. But they're reliable."

"Raf, I might need your help in there. If anyone else wants to join, feel free. Maybe showing up in force will be an advantage. Maybe not." He opens the van's sliding door and steps out, heading toward the front door. Once there, Ronny raises his hand to ring the bell, but notices the door is already open. Instinctively, his right hand reaches inside his jacket for his gun. Witht he other, he carefully pushes the door to the side, revealing the entrance with a set of stairs leading up. "Hello? It's Ronny. HoneyDrop sent me." HoneyDrop was the online handle of his contact.

Lio is familiar with this part of town.
"I have some friends and an ex-girlfriend living in the neighbourhood, I think it will be best if I stay in the van. If you call me before you go in, and keep the line open, we can follow the conversation and provide backup if necessary"

"I'll go in with you," Cat offers. Following behind Ronny, she is surprised to find the place a mess. It looks as though it has been tossed by someone trying to find something. "Uh, someone got here first," Cat says, rummaging through the scattered contents of an emptied drawer.

Ronny pulls his gun out of his jacket pocket. He's glad that Cat came with him now that he's seeing the state of this place. "I'm gonna check the back. Keep an eye out." He tells her before heading off down the hallway. It doesn't take long for him to notice the sound of rumbling coming from one of the rooms. From down the hall he makes a sign to Cat, pointing at his ear and then at the door.

Still at the car:
" 'Course Ronny. I will be right after you."

But seeing that Cat is willing to go too, he let her leave the van first and gives the records to Bob in the meantime:
"Keep an eye on those, will you, Buddy? Secure them in place... just in case you will have to drive fast again. I wouldn't want them be tossed around the car in such situation."

Rafael goes just after Cat. Seeing how does the place look and hearing that Ronny is going back, he nodes to him and says:
"I will check nearby area in case that we caught someone red handed and he or she is leaving the place. I'll inform Lio to keep their eyes open at the front of the building."

Saying that, Raf leaves the completely messed up living room for the balcony just outside it. He leans over the guard-rail with his back and checks the roof and other visible windows to scan anything particular, calling Lio in the same time:
"Lio, keep your eyes open for any suspicious movements. Our contact had uninvited guests and they were looking for something in here. Tell Bob... wait... what's that?" - Raf thought he saw something through one of the windows. Or was it only a false impression?

Ronny opens the back door in one fast movement, keeping his gun ready for any surprises. He sees the green-jacketed individual half-running some 30 meters away. "Hey, wait! HoneyDrop sent me!" He calls out, hoping that would do anything at all. Either this is the thief and they'd probably have no clue who HoneyDrop is, or it's the person we're looking for. He thinks. Then he realizes he's holding a gun, which would definitely not put the person at ease. He decides to hide it behind his back for now.

Cat appears behind Ronny in the entranceway, just in time to see the figure fleeing. "Shit. That's probably not good," she takes off at a dead run, following the figure along the ground.

Lio puts down his phone. "That was Ronny, we need to go around the block, step on it Bob" The second Lio says 'step on it' he regrets it. But Bob's tyres are all ready burning rubber before he can rephrase.
"But discrete Bob, discrete!"
Bob remembers now: "Don't draw too much attention, yeah sorry, I forgot". He lowers his speed and starts cruising.

"Keep your eyes open for a person with a green jacket, we need to intercept him... or her" Damnit, Ronny didn't specify if they are looking for a man or a woman.
coming around the corner Abby shouts out: "THERE! Over by that boarded up restaurant"
" Go Bob, let's try and cut them off, I'll force them into the van at gun point"

Ronny stares at the green-jacketed individual for a long second before they turn and start to run. He could run after them... but the chances of catching up are probably not good. Just as he's thinking that, Cat pushes him aside and sprints down the alley. He grabs his phone and presses the button to call Lio. "Lio, It's Ronny..."

After the call, he calls out to Raf inside the house. "Raf, did you find anything useful?"

Bob speeds towards the person, Lio is ready in the back, his hand already on the doorhandle of the sliding door.
The guy in the green jacket slows down for just a moment to turn his face and stare at the headlights coming his way. It is a guy, Lio can clearly see his face in de beams.
We got you now, mister
Bob gives a tug on the steering wheel, at the last moment he takes a hard left and stops the van centimeters from the a building.
Lio opens the door with one hand, holding his gun with the other.

There are stars before his eyes, and a sharp pain around his nose. Lio feels a warm fluid flowing over his lips, the metallic taste blood on his tongue.
"GOD DAMN SON OF A... he hit me Bob, he hit me! "
Bob saw what has happend and is already reversing the van.

Lio jumps out of the car and runs after him.
I'll will teach him, he'll regret punching ME in the face
Lio is getting closer, but the guy had quite the head start. Luckily Lio is in good shape.

Cat continues her pursuit of the fleeing figure, falling in behind Lio.

Ronny runs after Cat, who already has a good head start on him. He tries his best to stay on her heels, but is not in the best shape. As long as I can see which streets she turns into, I'll be okay.

Raf seeing the figure in green jacket, descends from the balcony taking care not to hurt himself in the process and also starts to run after the guy who may be the one they were looking for. It takes him longer than he would wish for and hears Ronny shouting, and then sees Ronny and Cat running before him after the guy. Seeing that it could be a longer chase then he initially thought, he makes his body to assume an even pace of running(ability that he have learned form his longer jogging sessions) and hearing Bob's van starting abruptly he makes a call to Bob.
"Tell me where... he is heading, Bob!" - he shouts through his earpiece microphone while getting some speed.

"We are near Einstein's Park, but I think Lio hav...." - Bob answers, but is disconnected and fallowed by static noise.

"Damn comms. Never work, when needed. I checked map before we got here, this 'not so big park' is indeed to the north. I will try to enter it from the east site." - Raf thinks before taking a slight turn to the right in the next available street, recalling the remembered map quite precisely.

Ronny spots the figure near the park as they are standing there with the new person who just came from the shadows. He's not close enough to hear what is being said, but the distance gives him the chance to assess the situation and surroundings. Besides, Cat is the furthest ahead. With her focussing on Green-jacket, Ronny tries to secure an advantage by having an overview.

Cat is hot on the tail of the fleeing figure, legs pumping.

Lio is very focussed on his assailant and is not paying a lot of attention to his suroundings.

Cat slows her pace to allow the others to catch up, then informs them what she saw.

Ronny catches up to Cat, quite out of breath. He tried to survey the area, but he was too focused on his breathing to really pay attention. "I'm not a good runner. I really should work out more."

Luckily, Cat did keep an eye on things. "Another person? Crap. We've got to get to him before he disappears. But I'd rather not risk a gunfight, though."

"Well, well... looks like I'm not the only one who came to the park for a little hunting!? What's positive about this: now I'm pretty sure I'm in a right place." - Raf smiles and thinks to him self while drawing his laser pistol from holster hidden under his brown coat and crouching to be less visible.

"His looking in the direction of the park's center square. I'm sure he will have nothing against my assistance with the gun aimed at his spine..." - his smile was a little nastier than one before.

With this thought Raf started to move slowly, crouching towards the man hiding himself in the bushes. Trying to be directly behind his back.

"Damn... should have asked him for the directions..." - Rafael thinks. With his gun pointing directly at the guy, Raf intentions are completely obvious now and he knows that he have to act fast.

Cat tenses and readies herself for combat.

Ronny looks over to where a surprised shout can be heard. Is that Raf? "So much for no gun fight, I guess." He says to cat as he reaches for his own gun again, trying to keep it at least a little concealed.

Lio sees the woman draw her gun and does the same. He's not really sure who is the enemy here. The green jacket DID hit him in the face, but that's not something worth dying for.

"Let him go!" Cat calls out to the green-jacketed individual. "This doesn't have to end in bloodshed!"

Cat does not have a ranged weapon (and couldn't use it proficiently if she did). She spreads her arms wide and takes a step toward the woman and her victim. "I'm not armed," she says (though her rapier is clearly visible), "I just want to talk."

Cat is going to delay, to allow her allies to get in an action.

Ronny aims his gun at the person holding GJ. Not aiming down the sights, but more of a hip shot thing. "I'd listen to her if I were you." He shouts loud enough that the 'bad guys' can hear. "We've got you surrounded, out numbered, and out gunned. We've got snipers on the roof too." He uses his other hand to point at some rooftops nearby without taking his eyes off the enemy.

"Consider this. Is the thing you're after worth the risk? We could all just walk away uninjured."

Lio puts his arms in the air. Still holding his gun in a non threatening way pointed at the sky.
'' Let's all calm down for a moment and assess the situation. And please, don't make any sudden moves, we don't want ANYbody to get hurt.''
He slowly walks towards g-j. But directs his voice to the assailant.
'' Is there a possibility we can talk this over? Do we even want the same thing? If you put down your gun I'll order the snipers to stand down. And we will also put down ours. Let just talk for a moment ''
He nods at Ronny and cat, but skips Raf.

Seeing that guys was quite fast and now is also aiming his gun on him, Raf hisses:
"Not a slightest chance... PAL. As you can see I already had gun aimed at you. Could fire it like 3 times now. So either we both end with holes in our bellies or you help me and my friends reason with your boss babe out there." - Raf intentionally underscore claim that the woman could be his boss, counting on the chance that it would put him in his place - not to decide by himself - or enrage him a little if the girl is not his boss at all.

Hopefully seeing some confusion on thug face, Raf waste no time and says out loud:
"Hay Lady! My friends are right. I also keep your big pet in check right here. You both are really not in a good position to negotiate. Not at all."
- while standing up very, very slowly not taking his gaze from the thug even for a second.

Hopefully seeing some confusion on thug face, Raf waste no time and says out loud:
"Hay Lady! My friends are right. I also keep your big pet in check right here. You both are really not in a good position to negotiate. Not at all."
- while standing up very, very slowly not taking his gaze from the thug even for a second.

"Alright," Cat calls, addressing the pair. "We've got you covered and you've got us covered. Why not calm down and let's negotiate? If not, we all start shooting and no one wins."

Raf is keeping his trained shooting position(standing) with both hands on the gun, keeping Craig's chest in the center of his crosshair and says to him in calm and silent enough voice so the girl boss wouldn't be able to hear - what he is about to say:
"So your name is Craig... right? It's sometimes funny in what circumstances people do meet..." - saying that, Raf starts to walk very slowly and calmly to one of his sides, around Craig(circling around him) - with intentions to make Craig's back finally being turned towards GJ and rest of the party.

"I tell you... I really like this coat of mine... I'm really NOT looking forward for some blood stains on it... And what about you...? Do they pay you enough... so having a hole in your chest would be worth it?

Raf looks carefully at Craigs reactions and adds a little faster as he would like to preempt Craig's answer:
"Maybe turn off your comm. We don't need others to hear our... potential... deal."

Lio starts looking around for movement, trying to see if Craig, Rudolf or Nigel are revealing themselves. Someone looking for a sniper could be an easy target. Lio hates using his gun, but if the situation askes for it, he is not the one to surpass on an opportunity. He is a former soldier after all.

When the woman starts to back away slowly, holding the hostage, Ronny grabs his phone. He positions himself behind a solid looking tree but keeps an eye on the situation. "I'm gonna call Bob." He tells Cat. "Then I'll be right there."

Seconds later, Ronny is calling. "Bob, it looks like they're heading to the other alley. I think we need some kind of distraction. What kind of honk-sound does that van have? You think it's loud enough to turn heads? That may just give us enough of an opening."

Gun in hand he moves to a safer spot, he walks carefully towards a small brick wall with stairs on one side. This must be the entrance to some sort of basement.
His eyes go from one spot to another.

where are you...

Cat wishes that she had a gun. At least she could bluff with it, even if she couldn't hit anything. Keep her talking, dummy! "Uh... who are your working for?" she calls out.

Lio adresses the team via coms: "Don't look, but there is someone on the rooftop across the street, I'm gonna try to take him out. Don't let him know we've seen him!"
Carefully Lio starts moving closer to the man on the roof, he tries to keep his eyes on G-J but glances now and than to see if he is still there. He tries to find some kind of bush to hide behind and take aim without being spotted as easily as on the open street.

"Scratch the honk sound. I have a feeling nobody would care." Ronny tells Bob, still concealing himself behind a tree and peaking out every now and then to see what's going on. "Looks like they're starting to back away. Say, Bob. That thing on top of your van. Any chance that's one of those speakers to play songs on? Like an ice cream van?" Ronny remembers seeing something sticking out on top of Bob's van, but he's not quite sure what it was.

"If you can, turn it up to full volume and blast some of that Swedish-latin-reggae music out of it. That's sure to turn some heads!" Swedish-latin-reggae music was some of the worst music Ronny had ever heard. But it was 'hip with the kids' as they say.

Let's hope this works. "Let 'er rip, Bob!"

A low bamboo-like patch of weed catches his eye. Slowly he moves towards the bush, doing his best to keep hidden from the eye in the sky.
Lio kneels between the plants holding his gun stable with 2 hands.
''I think I have a shot,... No wait, damn...
The guy disappears behind an air vent.
c'mon... Show yourself...

"Damn I should have start training ju-jitsu the last time I was thinking about it." - Raf thinks seeing how useful could be such skill now, he could try lunch at Craig an try to disarm him. But know Craig is back looking at Raf with gun still pointing at him.

"Well... I guess... if you are not good with your fist, you have to be good with your mind." - Raf thinks before smiling broadly and yelling over the noise to Craig:
"You see. You can trust me. Now lower your gun. And tell me: are you guys after the man or the briefcase? Maybe we can share?""Damn... my only chance... and I have to take it... to break this draw." - Raf thinks before aiming at Craigs gun to try to disarm him.

Cat scrambles to her feet and breaks for the bushes, baring her blade as she goes.

"Great job, Bob!" Ronny tells him on the phone. "Let's hope that gives someone an opening. Let it run for half a minute, then turn it off. We don't want too much attention."

He checks the situation from behind the tree again. That one holding GJ is heading to that exit. He looks left and right and spots a possible alternative route of a path running behind a hedge. He decides to take it in hopes of cutting off the hostage taker.

Loud music starts playing, coming from somewhere around the block. The guy on the rooftop hurries to the edge of the roof, bends over to see where the noise is coming from.
I got you now...
He steadies his gun with both his hands exhales and squeezes the trigger.

Cat analyzes the pattern of her movements, planning to come in at an angle to Ronny and catch GJ in between them.

The sound of the gun is camouflaged by the music coming from Bob's van.
The guy on top of the roof jerks back as the laser hits him.

'' I took down the guy on the roof, don't know for sure how bad he's hurt. I'm going to wait here for a minute of 2 to see if he shows himself again''

Lio keeps his eyes fixed on the roof. He is sure it was a good hit, but you never know... The guy might have been wearing some armour.

Cat stops to take another look around.

"Damn... my only chance... and I have to take it... to break this draw." - Raf thinks before aiming at Craigs gun and... firing his own... to try to disarm him.