>>4485956
3.>Wave down waitress for a beer

>>4485956
>Bring up local disaster from 3 years ago

>>4485956
>2.>Bring up local disaster from 3 years ago

>>4485956
>2.>Bring up local disaster from 3 years ago

File: 02.gif (81 KB, 624x512)

81 KB GIF

>>4485972
>>4485997
>>4486002

Tsuda checks his watch happily and leans on the table. He exhales his smoke away from you, because he remembers you quit.

"I been on this beat going on a decade, Bast. You know exactly how many SNATCHERS have been confirmed in Neo-Wakayama?"

This again.

"Exactly one."

"E-X-A-C-T-L-Y one."

Tonight's the night, you decide.

" One was all it took though, huh?"

Tsuda's expression sours as he turns to you.

You fold your arms, shrug and meet his stare

"What? By ALL accounts, he was a piece of shit that nobody liked. I looked him up on JORDAN. Dude took bribes, blackmailed sex workers, got drunk in public and was a dick to his family. I know for a fact that you personally disliked him."

Tsuda crushes out his cigarette in a brimming ashtray.

"Couldn't fucking stand him. But while he may have been a bad JUNKER and a worse human being, Ueminami was still a human being. And the very worst human being on this planet is higher in my books than the very best SNATCHER. It's not something to be flippant about."

You suppose.

"Ueminami wasn't the only victim of that attack anyway."

"Takako's arm, right?"

Tsuda nods. He almost looks regretful. For him.

You back to your food. You're feeling bold tonight. You shake your head admonishingly.

"And yet you still don't want a real SNATCHER detector at headquarters..."

Tsuda doesn't quite bang the table.

"Look here, you..."
His watch beeps 9:00pm and he gets a broad smile.

"Alrighty. Time for our shift to start."

Tsuda produces an antique coin from his pocket. It has '500' stamped on it, so it must be worth a fortune.

"Call it, aibo."


1.>Heads
2.>Tails
3.>Tsuda, let's just do our job properly
4.>Whoa, sorry. Brain sneeze. What are we doing here?

>>4486384
1.>Heads

>>4486384
>Heads

File: 03.gif (81 KB, 624x512)

81 KB GIF

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4486403
>>4486828

You finally give up on your disappointing beef curry udon. Your night might just be about to get a whole lot better!

You weren't sure about Tsuda's Friday Night Special at first but as the months went on it started to make a whole lot of sense.

As SNATCHERS are almost completely nocturnal it makes sense that those that hunt them, JUNKERS, are as well. This generally means you miss out on all fun things to do at night because you're too busy doing your jobs.

Now, this is Wakayama; so ,most days of the week the nightlife is non existent. But on Fridays places are open late, there's lock-ins at the arcade, the beer is half price, the soap lands put out the best babes and the town actually comes alive. For Wakayama, at least.

This is why you and Tsuda do the friday night special.

Whoever wins the coin toss gets to basically have the night off and do whatever they like. The loser has to do the other persons patrol route as well as their own or at least stick to JUNKER related activities. So they can go to HQ and study, or patrol the streets but no games, no drinking no real fun.

Doing the patrol data of two people is actually pretty easy, so every other day of the week at least your job is chill, but its not quite as good as cruising around town doing whatever you want and still making bank for it.

So, put simply, you are on board with this coin toss deal.

You smile at Tsuda and he smiles back.

"I'm going heads today, Noritaka."

"Alrighty then. Tails it is."

Tsuda pings his antique coin way up.

"Come on!"

"Gods of luck, smile on the local boy, huh?"

File: 04.gif (81 KB, 624x512)

81 KB GIF

The coin clatters to the table.

Tails.

You groan and loudly facepalm as Tsuda pumps his fist and laughs.

"Finally! Oh man I don't even know what I'm gonna do first! Beat your high score at the arcade? Get a nap in? Ah! I know!"

Tsuda waves down a waitress and immediately holds up 3 fingers. She curtseys and yells for three tall, frosty draught beers. Tsuda is being insufferable about this but if you're honest, this is pretty much how you acted last time. And the time before. You live by the coin, you die by the coin.

You sigh and press the NAVIGATOR button on your watch.

"Hey, KING BROTHER. Bring the turbocycle around."

There is a mechanical sigh from the other end of your watch-comm.

"Aa~aah...I wanted to hit up the crane games."

"Next week, partner. Duty calls,"

Tsuda is already half way through his first draught beer.

"Good luck out there, Bast. Keep our streets safe, you hear?"

You stand up and straighten your coat.

"Don't get too too loaded, buddy. If I encounter any SNATCHERS out there I'm gonna need you as backup."

Tsuda exhales with satisfaction as he finishes his drink.

"Ah, SNATCHERS aren't what they used to be ever since their home base in Moscow got totalled. Any SNATCHERS you see staggering around these days can probably be taken out by a sawn-off."

You pat the blaster in your shoulder holster.
"I don't use a sawn-off"

Tsuda laughs to himself
'I wasn't talking about your weapon, booster seat."

You purse your lips as your fist clenches. You had hoped that living in Japan would mean you got less jokes about your height. No such luck. You walk toward the door with a shred of dignity still intact.

"See you tomorrow, Tsuda-san."

"Sure thing. By the way, I noticed you're still calling it a 'turbocycle'. In this country we call it a 'tri-cycle'"

"Well, congratulations. You're wrong."

The automatic doors open and you step into the cool night air.

File: 05.gif (106 KB, 624x512)

106 KB GIF

You're not waiting outside for long before hear the sound that sounds a little like a labouring jet turbine.

Your company assigned TURBOCYCLE descends through the late night sky, it's three wheels folding back into their road-ready position. It engines hiss and shudder as it pulls to a complete stop.

You shake your head. Your branch is so cheap they managed to make a flying car seem NOT cool.

The drivers side door pops open and you briefly concede that gull wing doors are always cool.

Your robot navigator and ,sad as it is to admit, best friend KING BROTHER disengages himself from the flight computer and steps out onto the road to greet you. They waddle and beep, taking in data as usual.

"Good grief. I guess we had a good run. What was that? six weeks in a row?"

"Seven."

KING sighs.

"Well, our good luck couldn't last forever. Let's hope that losing a coin toss is the worst thing that happens tonight."
"I have a feeling it will be pal. Let's get out there."

KING BROTHER nods.

"Shall I drive?"

1.>Nah, I want you to doing background scans. Besides, driving a flying car is fun.
2.> Would you? I have some things I gotta do.

>>4487027
>Nah, I want you to doing background scans. Besides, driving a flying car is fun.

>>4487027
>1.>Nah, I want you to doing background scans. Besides, driving a flying car is fun.

File: 06.gif (86 KB, 624x512)

86 KB GIF

>>4487033
>>4487060
You pat KING BROTHER as you slide into the driver's seat of your turbocycle and thumb a few overhead controls. You insert your JUNKER ID into the central console and it welcomes you back via a cheesy LCD display.

"I've got this, King. The nights are getting longer and want you on full sensor duty. unusual electromagnetic discharges, foreign radio signals and especially the presence of SNOW-9 artificial pollen. Even if it doesn't mean SNATCHERS it means someone's trying to block scanners and has SOMETHING to hide."

You hit a few more buttons and the turbocycle rumbles to life.

"It's the day we don't do everything we can that they strike."

The passenger side door opens and KING BROTHER hops onto the seat next to you.

"Honestly, Bubastis. As much as your vigilance can seem excessive when correlated with existing patterns and past data, it is always nice to see someone who takes their job seriously."

"Thanks, partner. But come on, it's nearly been a year. 'Bast' is fine."

KING BROTHER relaxes into his seat like a nesting chicken.

"Bubastis, I am not programmed to be quite so informal with you."

"You seem chill about other things."

"It is a computer and text data to speech parser specific problem."

You shut your door and adjust the rear vision mirror as the engine fully warms up.

"Whatever you say, King."

================================================================

>POSSESSIONS

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
>Insert own options

>TURBOCYCLE
[DOWNTOWN]
[JUNKER HQ]
[MARKET]
[SHRINE]
[BAST APARTMENT]
[RED LIGHT DISTRICT]
[KOREA TOWN]
[DRIVE AROUND THE BLOCK]

>>4487114
>TURBOCYCLE
[DOWNTOWN]

>>4487114
>[DOWNTOWN]

>>4487114
>[DOWNTOWN]

>>4487114
>[DOWNTOWN]

File: 07.gif (106 KB, 624x512)

106 KB GIF

>>4487124
>>4487162
>>4487191
>>4487527

You pull the flight lever and the turbo cycle begins to slowly rise, you feel the shudder and clunk as the wheels fold back into the chassis.

"Let's hit up DOWNTOWN first."

"There's nothing to do downtown."

You tap your head and smile down at KING BROTHER

"That's just the mentality they're counting on. Come on, I'll treat you to something."

"I'll bank it."

KING BROTHER switches on the radio to some sassy jazz as the TURBOCYCLE takes off into the night sky and you have the satisfying sensation of having completed a cold open.

File: 08.gif (151 KB, 624x512)

151 KB GIF

You park the TURBOCYCLE in a well lit wide alley. Between this thing being a VTOL vehicle and your JUNKER CARD allowing you to park almost anywhere, if nothing else, this job makes it easy to get a space.

You check the ceramic chamber on your blaster one last time. Don't wanna wave a weapon like that around in public. All indicators green. No problem. You holster your weapon as you and KING BROTHER exit the alleyway.

You place your hands on your hips and smile at the sights and sounds of downtown Neo-Wakayama.

"Good evening, my city."

"Bubastis, my data indicates you're from Yarmouth, Nova Nova Scotia."

"Whatever. You know what I mean."

==============================================

>POSSESSIONS

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
>Insert own options

>MOVE
[LAWSON]
[PACHINKO PARLOUR]
[BUS SHELTER]
[DARK BACK ALLEY]
[ARCADE]
[DUNKEY OATEY]
[WELL LIT ALLEY]

>SMELL

>>4488327
>TALK
KING BROTHER
> Is it possible to fix that speech parser problem without completely reprogramming you?

>MOVE
DARK BACK ALLEY

>>4488327
>POSSESSIONS
Let's see what we're working with here.

File: 09.gif (152 KB, 624x512)

152 KB GIF

>>4488441
KING BROTHER extends his manipulator arms to close the passenger door and waddles up to your side.

"Bubastis, have you got everything? make sure you haven't left your JUNKER CARD in the car."

You nod and slightly begrudgingly take inventory.

"Let's see."


POSSESSIONS

BLASTER
The signature weapon of a JUNKER. Yours is an older model but it's still about advanced as handheld weaponry gets. Even the military rarely has access to something this portable but also so powerful. Made from ceramics and polycarbonate synthetic materials it is remarkably light and also heat resistant. It's just about the only thing that can damage a SNATCHER while also being so transportable. Such power is kept out of the hands of the common folk and the construction and maintenance of these weapons is a highly guarded secret of JUNKER INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS. Naturally, this one is coded to your finger, palm and DNA signature. Only you can fire it.

You give it a quick twirl and holster it.

"Tax dollars at work."

"There is a reason JUNKER doesn't discuss its budget with the media much..."

JUNKER BLOOD
You keep an injector of this. The syringe itself is quite small. Its a form of emergency artificial blood. Once injected, its replicates itself rapidly to compensate for lost blood while replicated blood of your type. If a JUNKER has been injured and is bleeding, a dose of this will by them a decent amount of extra time.

You groan at the sight of it.

"I didn't think you had ever needed it."

Never needed it, no but they made us get used to it in JUNKER training so we'd be ready for it in the field. I can't stand this stuff."

"it beats bleeding to death, Bubastis."

JUNKERS RUSH
A form of stick gum filled with with crystallised adrenaline. Increases reflexes, aim and provides almost superhuman strength for a short time. The list of side effects on the packet could make an evenings reading. The only one you're sure of is that is makes you feel constantly like your just about to die. Exactly one stick is missing. Gave you an amazing high score playing HEAD KICKER, but it wasn't worth it. Well, maybe...

"I've often wondered. What flavour is that stuff?"

"Grapefruit. Same as everything else in this country."

"You don't like grapefruit?"

"I had to learn to, didn't I?"

ARTIFICIAL SKIN SPRAY

"Had this since day one but it's never come up. Some sort of deodorant?"

"Quite the opposite. It is an aerosol based engineered protein that will make exposed skin stronger against blows, cuts and heat. Unfortunately, besides oxygen exchange, it seal the skin making it impossible to wash, sweat or even deodorise."

"Ugh..."

"Only use it every 24 hours, it could be bad for your health otherwise..."


"Don't worry, I'm not tempted."

File: 10.gif (151 KB, 624x512)

151 KB GIF

JUNKERS BELT
A very strong belt made from ceramics, polymers and flexible plastics. Also insulated, as it is capable of generating a powerful blast of electricity in a 360 shockwave around your body. It's activated either by code word of your choosing or by a specific flex of the abdominal walls. Useful in an emergency. It wont kill anyone, and a SNATCHER will barely notice. But if your arms and legs are immobile, it can send most humans packing. Might even knock them unconscious.

"Not bad for something that holds my pants up."

"Please only use this in an emergency, Bubastis - the shock could effect my internal memory."

"I wouldn't worry. I forgot the codeword."

"That's not good either!"

"I'm kidding..basically. I just didn't want it to be a word I would say by accident. it's my provincial bird or something."

"or something?"

JUNKER COAT
A multi pocketed armoured coat capable of withstanding temperatures of up to 800 Celsius and 50kg of force, despite its flexibility. It has extra armour over the wearers vital organs.

"It would be better protection if you zipped it closed/"

"Then it'd be hard to breathe."

"Bubastis..."

"If things look dangerous, okay? I just like that this model comes with a hood. Basically immune to energy weapons to the back of the head."

"A SNATCHER's mouth laser reaches temperature of 900 degrees..."

"Brilliant."

JUNKER CARD
Your ID. It authorises your activities in many civilised places. Not quite like a police badge, but it's far from worthless. It also ensure only you and your bonded navigator have access to your TURBOCYCLE, JUNKER HQ and the JORDAN computer system at the HQ.


CREDITS
Digital card based currency

CASH
Still widely used in parts of the city as it's untraceable unlike credits. Can be a JUNKERS best tool.

EMERGENCY CIGARETTE
One left in the tin. Not today.

WATCH
Basic timepiece. Button on the side comms you through to KING BROTHER. All other calls require a payphone or the VIDEOPHONE built into your navigator.

>>4488747
Go on OP...

>>4488747
This robot's fuckin' PISSED

If that's everything in the inventory, then seconding this >>4488343

>>4488892
GM: Ah, sorry. That's the complete inventory.

>>4488747

"A little less sass, you. If you want something from the crane games in the future, that is." Shrug and tap holster. That blaster might see some use for a change.

>MOVE
DARK BACK ALLEY

>>4488747
>DARK BACK ALLEY
And for the love of all that's holy please don't flake, this looks very promising.

File: 11.gif (103 KB, 624x512)

103 KB GIF

>>4488343
>>4488989
>>4489125
>>4489940

You tilt your head towards the darkest alleyway you can find downtown. KING BROTHER nods and makes a few beeping noises a few lights come on on their body. KING BROTHER is in scanning mode. You walk down the alleyway feeling good and talking to yourself. You speak out loud to the darkness.

"Sneaky."

"A little less sass, you. If you want something from the crane games later, that is."

KING BROTHER maintains a friendly tone, for a robot.

"First of all, Bubastis I play my own crane games. Second of all, each personal navigator is programmed with a personality and subroutines designed to compliment and balance their assigned JUNKER based on the JUNKER's psychological profile taken during their training."

"So it was scientifically determined that I needed to be followed around by a robot who is 1/3 drinking buddy, 2/3 nagging parent?"

"In order to do your job properly, yes. Put simply, I am programmed to 'sass' you."

"I didn't used to have an opinion on military spending, but it is definitely too much..."

You continue down the alleyway when something occurs to you.

"Wait a minute. SPEAKER BOX is just as shiftless and cynical as Tsuda is. Shouldn't TSUDA's navigator be constantly lecturing him and stirring him into action?"

"Noritaka Tsuda was a SCIENCE COP before he joined JUNKER. He would have been familiar with the robot partnering system and most likely gave intentionally misleading answers to ensure he got a navigator programmed to have a more relaxed personality."

"That lazy a ah Ahh AHHCHOO!"

"Bless you."

KING BROTHER beeps a few times

"Bubastis, I wasn't sure at first. But there are high amounts SNOW-9 pollen in this alleyway."

You sniff, and flick open your holster just in case.

"Noted, partner. Is there any way to get you to relax on my name, at least."

"You would have to talk to Moses, the JUNKER engineer."

You wave KING BROTHER down a little. At the end of the alley you see and hear three men. By their body language, they've noticed you but are going back to talking among themselves. Albeit cautiously.


>POSSESSIONS

>LOOK
[MEN]
[ALLEYWAY WALL]
[DUMPSTER]
[UP]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MEN]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>SNIFF


===========================================================================

>>4489940
>And for the love of all that's holy please don't flake, this looks very promising.

GM: Is this a message for me, the GM? cause don't worry. I am waaaay into this. And the comparatively slow pace of this quest will be easy for me to maintain. It's pretty text heavy. i can do that.

>>4489981
>LOOK
All the options. I don't see why we can't.

File: 12.gif (107 KB, 624x512)

107 KB GIF

>>4489989

>LOOK

[MEN]
All three of them are wearing what appear to be disposable coveralls and dust masks.

[ALLEYWAY WALL]
The whole thing is thick with posters of all sizes. barely any actual wall is visible. Posters old and new. Advertising live house rock shows and the latest deals from the red light district. Upcoming late night beer festivals. All things you're too busy doing your job to get to.

"Good grief. Maybe next week, huh?"

"Mind in the game, King!"

"Ah, yeah...sorry.."

[DUMPSTER]
It looks remarkably clean.

"That's gotta be the newest cleanest back alley dumpster I've ever seen."

"Hmm. According to my data there IS a local government reform on waste management being implemented throughout Neo-Wakayama. New workers and facilities. However, it was my understanding they were doing to start with the CBD. Downtown shouldn't have the changes in place yet."

[UP]
There is a camera in the back corner of the alleyway looking directly at the dumpster and the 3 men.

The amount of SNOW-9 around here is making my eyes itch. That camera is beyond useless."

"If it has an integrated mike, that'll be getting nothing but static as well..."

"Oh, so a MICROPHONE get's its name abbreviated..."

>LOOK
[MEN]
[DUMPSTER]

>INVESTIGATE
[DUMPSTER]
[POSTERS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MEN]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>USE KING BROTHER
[BODY SCAN MEN]
[HEAT SCAN DUMPSTER]

>>4490007
>USE KING BROTHER
>[BODY SCAN MEN]

>>4490007
>USE KING BROTHER
>[BODY SCAN MEN]
>[HEAT SCAN DUMPSTER]

File: 13.gif (111 KB, 624x512)

111 KB GIF

>>4490010
>USE KING BROTHER
>[BODY SCAN MEN]

You crouch next to KING BROTHER.

"How do they look, partner?"

"Hmm. Their heat signatures and perspiration are men who have been working in this temperature. However, SNATCHERS can replicate such things perfectly. All human bodily functions in fact. It's what makes them so dangerous."

"We can't scan them more thoroughly without a scanning permit can we?"

"I am afraid not, Bubastis. I can send through an application for a SCANNING WARRENT through to Takako our dispatcher for a full bio-scan but it's not going to get approved without any reasonable grounds for suspicion."

"That would be too easy, huh?"

"Civil rights are important."

File: 14.gif (106 KB, 624x512)

106 KB GIF

>>4490025
>USE KING BROTHER
>[HEAT SCAN DUMPSTER]

"See what you can get from that dumpster, King."

"Understood. Hmm."

"Hmm?"

"Well, assuming my sonic resonance sensor is accurate, that dumpster is not empty and yet, it has no heat coming off it whatsoever.

"Any form of rotting garbage gives off some heat. This dumpster is out the back of a restaurant - what's the chances its full but none of its contents are giving off heat?"

"The statistics are against it. It's either full of electronic waste.."

"Or it's not waste at all. Could it be SNATCHERS?"

"SNATCHERS, unless completely and utterly deactivated still have a heat signature, so it's unlikely. But...it IS very strange."

>>4490045
Is it time for us to vote?

>>4490054
GM: If you like. but there's not that many players.

You can pretty much just submit your action and see what gains traction and support.

I will work with whatever I've got next time I check in. Probably 18-20 hours from now.

If you decide to just draw your blaster and just fire warning shots everywhere (not recommended at all) and no one at all says "let's not" then that's what happens.

Your investigation is going well, though.

I hope this is fun if a little slow. It is very very gun for me

Thank you for playing.

As you were.

>>4490045
If we can do ti without alerting the men, INVESTIGATE dumpster by opening it up. It might be full of contraband. Otherwise, LISTEN to the men conversation.

>>4490070
>Supporting >>4490072

>>4490072
+1

>>4490070
Not having many players is not a reason to leave out vote prompts and make the situation ambiguous

>>4490045
Supporting >>4490072

File: 15.gif (104 KB, 624x512)

104 KB GIF

>>4490072
>>4490074
>>4490097

The DUMPSTER is beyond the men, so there's no way of investigating it without alerting them. As you take a few more steps forward, you can over here the conversation the men are having.

"So shall we do the thing?"
"What thing is that?"
"The thing where we talk?"
"The thing where we talk."
"The thing where we KEEP talking"
"About this and that."
"This and that and sandwiches"
"Because sudden silence is weird."
"I like meatball subs on whole wheat."
"Egg salad with the crusts cut off."
"man, oh man are we talking"

You roll your eyes

KING BROTHER shakes his head


>LOOK
[MEN]
[DUMPSTER]

>INVESTIGATE
[DUMPSTER]
[POSTERS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MEN]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]


==============================================================
Getting a quick one in.

I will now always post options. If I hit word limit, I will do a follow up post so it's not ambiguous. Good point, well made.

>>4490397
>TALK: MEN

Hello, citizens. Any happenings a round the neightbourhood?

>INVESTIGATE
dumpster

>>4490397
What's our SOP on finding suspected Snatchers? Should we contact Tsuda?

>>4490397
>LOOK
Men
Dumpster

>>4490413
Support

>>4490397
>INVESTIGATE
[DUMPSTER]
See what they do when we approach it.

File: 16.gif (98 KB, 624x512)

98 KB GIF

>>4490413
>>4490471
>>4490579
>>4490655

>LOOK
>[DUMPSTER]

"It has the standard 4 wheels, but ti doesn't have the regulation wheel brakes. Odd for a dumpster to be not built to code. Especially for one that's apparently brand new"

>LOOK
>[MEN]
They are standing in a triangle shape. The two closes to you almost look like they're trying to conceal the other guy slightly. Their disposable coveralls look pretty clean in this light.

>[TALK]
>MEN

"Hello, citizens. Any happenings a round the neighbourhood?"

They all turn toward you and wave.

"Not so as we've noticed. Nice quiet one. Just waiting for the truck to pick up this bad boy."

>INVESTIGATE
>[DUMPSTER]

You walk closer to the dumpster and one of the men make slightly discouraging sound and walks up to meet you.

"Oh hey there whoa now hey now. Is there any thing wrong here..."

The mans eyes dart around you lingering a little and then glancing down at KING BROTHER.

"...ooo...ffi..cer?"

The dumpster has a padlock on it. The other two men stay where they are. One looks around an checks his watch.

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[MEN]
[DUMPSTER]

>INVESTIGATE
[DUMPSTER]
[PADLOCK]
[POSTERS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MEN]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>USE KING BROTHER
[ATMOSPHERE]

============================================================================

>>4490468
Because of their considerable accoutrements, it is generally expected for a JUNKER to be autonomous. However, if they are almost sure they have a SNATCHER and it's a situation they are convinced they cannot handle alone, then they can call in other RUNNERS as backup. It's probably wise to be sure before you call Tsuda.

If you are truly in danger, your WATCH actually contains a hidden button beneath its face, if pushed it will send out an ALL PERSONNEL BROADCAST (called a 'GIBSON' in the JUNKER business) that will summon every member of the local JUNKER division to your co-ordinates at the time the signal is sent. Not just the other RUNNER (Tsuda) but the ENGINEER (Moses) the OPERATOR (Takako) and the CHIEF (WInterfall). Be very careful how you use a GIBSON signal. If at all.

>>4491109
What ARE actually the signs of a Snatcher? What are we looking for?
>TALK
"I've actually passed a broken down garbage truck. Are you waiting for <fictional license plate number>?"
Just to see how they try to get out of this.

>>4491109
>>4491119 works for me
But also
>INVESTIGATE padlock

>>4491109
>USE KING BROTHER
>[ATMOSPHERE]

If this will check on the SNOW-9 levels in the area. Is the pollen concentrated around the dumpster or any of the men?

>>4491109
>>4491119
support.

>>4491119
>What ARE actually the signs of a Snatcher? What are we looking for?

As a bioroid, a SNATCHER is much faster and stronger than a normal human being. However, once they have their artificial skin, muscle, hair and organs they look identical. Capable of mimicking every human bodily function. They steal a persons identity down to their voice and their superficial DNA.

However, we now know there are key things to look for.

1. A SNATCHERS artificial skin is defective and will erupt into skin melanoma like skin cancer if exposed to sunlight. Even reflected sunlight from the moon. Without their artificial skin, the bioroid endoskeleton is even more sensitive, As such, SNATCHERS, disguised or otherwise are largely nocturnal, or try to be.

2.SNATCHERS generally try to steal the identity of people of political or social influence to better assist in pushing an agenda that will help more of their kind. Occasionally, someone of what seems to be less importance will be snatched because their job gives them access to information or some sort of security clearance.

3. Because some people the SNATCHERS steal the identity of are prominent, they cannot completely avoid the sun. What we would consider an irritating sunburn could be fatal to a SNATCHER. Analysing the health of a suspects skin, as well as the foul odour produced by the cancer like growths is a large factor in SNATCHER investigations.

4.Dogs can not stand SNATCHERS and visa-versa.

5. While SNATCHERS generally leave the domicile of the person they've snatched unchanged to protect their cover, they often have a nostalgic connection to Russia, as this was the country where the project was first developed -even if it was later sold to and modified by other parties, SNATCHERS have an almost instinctive connection with the country where the first of their kind was built. Often a picture or a smell or a song. Has the suspect recently started collecting Russian memorabilia.

6. The presence of SNOW-9 artificial pollen. As it is an effective signal blocking agent, people beside SNATCHERS have been known to use it. SNATCHERS almost seem to generate it. SNOW-9 doesn't definitely mean SNATCHERS, but SNATCHERS definitely mean SNOW-9. SNATCHERs seem to be immune to its irritating effects, and will not sneeze.

7. To protect their skin year round and even at night, a SNATCHER's house will always contain large amounts of high powered sun screen. They may even have it on them.

8.WHile their artificial skin is similar to ours it heals much, much slower. A SNATCHER will have to either find a medical facility run by other SNATCHERS to get it repaired or simply have to clumsily hide any injury.
I think that's it.

>>4491571
Then I think we can mention how beautiful is the moon tonight and see if they flinch.

>>4491623
support

>>4491109
>TALK
[MEN]
Ask them what's inside, maybe remark that it looks pretty clean for a dumpster. Might as well see if they're as bad at lying as they are at cover talk.

Although with that in mind, if they're just doing regular illegal shit it's not our problem. So far the only signs that they might be SNATCHERS is the SNOW-9 and the coveralls, which might be to protect their skin from UV.

I have a hunch that these guys might be regular humans moving stolen SNATCHER remains, but I don't really have any good evidence for that so far. Worth considering though.

File: 1602633140659s.jpg (2 KB, 93x125)

2 KB JPG

>>4491571
Is picrelated your handiwork, QM?

File: 17.gif (108 KB, 624x512)

108 KB GIF

>>4491164
>USE KING BROTHER
>[ATMOSPHERE]

King brother beeps a few times.

"There are higher levels of SNOW-9 the deeper we get into the alleyway. I am getting trace elements of other substances, but it is hard to pin down. It seems to to have been releases higher up. Not at this level."

>TALK
"I've actually passed a broken down garbage truck. Are you waiting for BH 7500?"

The man closest to you scratches his head.

"Whew, nope. That's not us. Must be a different route. Bummer."

>INVESTIGATE
>padlock

You jingle the heavy brass padlock.

"An old fashioned 4 digit combination lock. Unlike an electronic lock, I will not be able to disengage this via signal polarity, however, given enough time I believe I could open this."

The first man trots over to you

"Ah Uh. No need for that. I'll show you what's in it, eh?"

The man hastily undoes the padlock.

KING BROTHER looks up and you and whispers:

("Bubastis, the code was 3893")

The man opens the lid in front of you.

Its dark, but it looks to be a bunch of restaurant waste.

You can hear flies buzzing.

You peer into the dumpster.

"Full moon tonight. I don't always notice stuff like that any more but it really is quite beautiful."

The man holding the dumpster lid looks puzzled but gives a small laugh, glad that you're making small talk, I guess.

"Oh, yeah. It is nice. Perks of a night job I guess."


>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[MAN]
[GARBAGE]
[OTHER MEN]

>INVESTIGATE
[DUMPSTER]
[POSTERS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MEN]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>SNIFF

>LISTEN

>USE KING BROTHER
[WRITE IN]

>>4492697
>USE KING BROTHER
Let him investigate the dumpster. We need to kep an eye on the men.

File: 18.gif (108 KB, 624x512)

108 KB GIF

>>4492706
>USE KING BROTHER
Let him investigate the dumpster. We need to keep an eye on the men.

"See what you, think partner."

"Roger that."

KING BROTHER extends his stubby manipulator arms way up to reach the edge of the dumpster then , with some effort hoists themselves up to peer inside.

He activates his flashlight.

"Fascinating. It appears to be a collection of greasy pizza boxes and old vegetables."

The first man gestures obligingly.

"Of course. That's what I've been trying to tell you."

KING BROTHER beeps a few times.

"Bubastis. Though it is faint I detect traces of levomethamphetamine and dextromethamphetamine on the wall of this dumpster."

The first man looks around.

"Huh. Weird. Musta been at the hospital earlier."

A second man stops keeping watch on his friend and walks over.

"Alright, lady. What's going on here? Either show us a badge or mind your own business, hah?"

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[MAN 1]
[MAN 2]
[MAN 3]
[GARBAGE]
[OTHER MEN]

>INVESTIGATE
[GARBAGE]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN 1]
[MAN 2]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>SNIFF

>LISTEN

>USE KING BROTHER
[WRITE IN]

>>4492729
>Move away from dumpster
>Talk
"I didn't find what I was looking for in that dumpster. You're in the clear, gentlemen"
>Look up at the possible source of SNOW 9

>>4492729
>USE KING BROTHER
Can he scan the upper levels of the buildings that make up the alleyway for the source of the SNOW-9?

>>4492729
>POSSESSIONS
>SHOW
[JUNKER CARD]
Apologise for the inconvenience and wish them a good evening. Then head out of the way and do >>4493513

File: 19.gif (105 KB, 624x512)

105 KB GIF

>>4493513
>USE KING BROTHER
Can he scan the upper levels of the buildings that make up the alleyway for the source of the SNOW-9?

KING BROTHER beeps a few times

"I detect trace levels of cordite in the air also. Most likely the SNOW-9 shot from ground level and exploded in mid air."

The second man speaks up.

"What can I say? I hate all these cameras.

The first man is still eyeing you slightly nervously.

You help KING BROTHER down from the edge of the dumpster and turn back to the first man.

"I didn't find what I was looking for in that dumpster. You're in the clear, gentlemen"

The first man looks around but seems to be relieved.

"Oh. Huh. Ahhh...cool!"

The second man walks up. not spoiling for a fight, but tense

"What's going on here anyw.."

>>4493943

You hold up your JUNKER CARD and he looks a little surprised.

"Standard patrol."

The second man reads the card

"Jun..ker?"

Hearing the word said out loud, the third man steps forward but then stops again.

The first and second men turn toward him. The second inclines his head toward you a few times.

"Go on."


The third man taps his fingers together nervously and approaches you.

"If..if I tell you what I think I saw..you ..you ain't gonna make fun of me, right?"


>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[MAN 1]
[MAN 2]
[MAN 3]


>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN 1]
[MAN 2]
[MAN 3]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>USE KING BROTHER
[WRITE IN]

>>4494157
Damn, I thought Junkers were a secret for some reason. Should've shown our ID long ago.

>ANSWER
"We don't make fun of witnesses"

>>4494157
>Not to your face at least and if it due to something illegal well not my jurisdiction

File: 20.gif (109 KB, 624x512)

109 KB GIF

>>4494161
You glance down at KING BROTHER then give a reassuring look to the third man as you fold your arms.

"We don't make fun of witnesses"

KING BROTHER chirps

The third man steps up to you, the second man puts a hand on his shoulder.

"Last night..like...I was far away, right? But I know what I saw.....but ..."

He shakes

"I saw these two guys arguing, right? In Koreatown out the back of the Lotteria. One guy was following the other, just at walking pace. They started shoving each other and then...this guy just...he grabbed the guy by the wrist and just smashed him into the ground five or six times. Threw him into a lampost so hard that he bent it, then picked him up and threw him into the street...he looked around and then... I SWEAR...he jumped...JUMPED onto w all and climbed up it and ran off along the roof tops..."

He lowers his head.

"Cops and medics reckon he was hit by a car...but it was a man that did it...or one of those things...right? Like was in the news that time? I wasn't sure where to go. Honestly, I thought you guys...JUNKERS...were an urban legend or at least only in the big cities."

You nod

"We do not advertise our presence much. Historically when JUNKERS are brought to the public eye, the general public gets SNATCHER obsessed. In the past that's lead to widespread paranoia and a lot of innocent people getting killed because suddenly everybody thinks everybody else is a SNATCHER."

The second man chimes in, inappropriately upbeat.

"SNATCHERS! I knew there was a word for it. I remember all that.."

The first man slaps him on the back of the head.

The third man continues

"I wasn't that close so I didn't see either the guy who got all messed up or the guy that did it to him. But I KNOW there was another guy who saw it all up close. The freak didn't see him cause the guy was crouching in the bushes but he was definitely close enough to see his face."

>>4494188

GM: Sorry, witness is are now done talking unless questioned further, forgot to add options to post.
============================

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>ASK
[ARGUEMENT]
[SNEEZING]
[VICTIM]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN 1]
[MAN 2]
[MAN 3]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>USE KING BROTHER
[WRITE IN]

>>4494194
>ASK
[ARGUMENT]
[SNEEZING]
[VICTIM]
[ATTACKER]

Have some very relevant music for this thread:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5T7B9nw7ht4&t=10830s

>>4494200
Agreed.

Also didn't earlier it get said that any rotting food would create heat, so it was weird that no heat was detected from the dumpster? But now it turns out there is rotting food in there. Could the dumpster somehow be thermally shielded? I suppose it's not our business but I wanted to bring it up since it seems like this has been overlooked thus far.

File: 21.gif (103 KB, 624x512)

103 KB GIF

>>4494200

"Do you know what the argument was about?"

"Not the specifics. But I know for sure money was being yelled about."

"isn't it always."

===

"Did you find yourself sneezing much during the encounter.?"

"Eh? No..not at....AH! But you know it's funny you should ask. The guy who was closer. The guy hiding in the bushes. He was clearly really holding in a sneeze. really pinching his nose and muffling himself. When the commotion was over, he sneezed once or twice as he ran off into the night."

===

"Did you recognise the victim at all, or do you have any idea where they might be?"

"I did look at what was left for him before I called the cops and ambulance and I'd be amazed if his own mother recognised him at that point. Dude looked like a truck had hit him. Probably took him to the closest hospital. He'd be in the morgue there."

KING BROTHER makes some calculating beeps.

"The closest hospital to the Korea Town LOTTERIA is Shichikokoyama Hospital."

"Ah. That rings a bell."

===

"Can you give me any details at all about the attacker?"

"Man, not really. He was wearing a long winter coat - maybe like yours? and I feel like he might have had kinda shaggier hair? But I'm really nor sure. It could have been one of those Russian hats for all I know."


>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>ASK
[ID]
[ATTACK]
[WITNESS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN 1]
[MAN 2]
[MAN 3]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>USE KING BROTHER
[WRITE IN]

>>4494218
>Ask
[ID]
[Attack]
[Witness]

>Talk
[King Brother] About the discrepancy between a lack of heat signature from the dumpster and its heat-generating contents.

>>4494218
>MOVE
Away and towards the nearest payphone.
We should contact the police and try to find out what they know. Even if it was registered as an accident, maybe they managed to ID the victim.
Also we need to contact Tsuda with this new development.

File: 22.gif (107 KB, 624x512)

107 KB GIF

>>4494223

[ID]

"Didn't the victim have any kind of ID on him?"

"Apparently not. I think the guy who attacked him rolled him of everything he had on him. I think some of his stuff might have gotten scattered during the fight, though. I dunno."

===

[Attack]

"Is there anything else you can tell us about the attack?"

"It seemed vicious. Like he wasn't just attacking him - he hated him. I wasn't gonna say anything cause I thought it sounded weird but..well, I've come this far. After the guy threw the victim onto the street he stood over him and I swear..he punched him right through his chest. Into the heart, like he wasn't taking any chances."

===
[Witness]

"What did the other victim look like?"

"I'm not really sure, either. I wasn't much closer to him than I was to the attack. looked like he might be in some sorta uniform though. A darker one."

>Talk
>[King Brother] About the discrepancy between a lack of heat signature from the dumpster and its heat-generating contents.

He responds quietly

"Hmm. It is possible that it is false garbage. made of plastic or metal and painted to look convincing. Possibly a façade to conceal what I suspect to be narcotics being shipped en masse to be distributed lately. I can send our positioning data to narcotics to handle it if you like. Though, illegal it's not really our department. It's no bad thing for the normal cops to owe you one, but it's up to you. These gentlemen will have no way of knowing it was you."

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>ASK


>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN 1]
[MAN 2]
[MAN 3]

>MOVE
[TOWARDS]
[AWAY]

>USE KING BROTHER
[WRITE IN]

>>4494235
GM: Very sorry. I should clear things up.

1. KING BROTHER actually works as a video phone, as well as a sensor, partner and evidence storage. They are capable of analysing DNA and sometimes facial reconstruction. I am sorry for not listing more features. I keep on running this with a lot of assumed knowledge.

2. The cops are considering them a John Doe who got hit by a large vehicle and aren't giving it much thought. As with the original SNATCHER it is chiefly about going to places and seeing what you can find and learn rather than asking other professionals for what they have learned already. It's your case. Little odd, but I hoped more involved.
3. Tsuda is not accepting calls at this exact moment, but his navigator robot SPEAKER BOX acknowledges your message and will pass it along at his nearest convenience.

>>4494251
Then move out of the alleyway and call. We can at least find out the precise place and time of the incident from the police. Also maybe they got that witness in the bushes.
Let's also inform the police about suspected drug trafficking, but tomorrow. If there's a raid immediately, these guys might suspect us after all.

File: 23.gif (148 KB, 624x512)

148 KB GIF

>>4494259
You thank the 3 drug traffickers for their time and information and step back into DOWNTOWN.

You crouch down next to KING BROTHER

"Gotta make a call, partner."

"Understood."

KING BROTHER's circular 'wings' click out from their body and swivel toward you. One has a numpad, one has a screen.

You put through a call to the Neo-Wakayama police. At first they want to know why you want to know but then you show your JUNKER CARD. They put the time of the incident at roughly 11:30pm last night out the back of the LOTTERIA in Koreatown. There were blood stains and impact marks all around the parking lot the worst being near the vidphone booths.

They know nothing about a second witness. But will ensure that you are not impeded in your investigation, either at the crime scene or if you go to the hospital.

You tip them off about what is likely a sudden huge shipment of drugs going across town in a disguised garbage truck or flat bed. They assure you the will calculate the most likely route and set up a 'random' traffic check point. The pushers should never know it was you. You are thanked for your co-operation.

"We have a lot of waves we can ride at this time, Bubastis."

>POSSESSIONS

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
>Insert own options

>MOVE
[LAWSON]
[PACHINKO PARLOUR]
[BUS SHELTER]
[DARK BACK ALLEY]
[ARCADE]
[DUNKEY OATEY]
[WELL LIT ALLEY]

>SMELL

>USE KING BROTHER

>>4494287
>Move
Site of the incident.
The body is safely stored, while the site is being disturbed more with each passing moment.

>>4494287
>MOVE
[LOTTERIA]

>>4494311
I'm inclined to go with this. I think the place was Lotteria?

Also because I see no downside to it...
>SMELL

>>4494287

>SMELL

Has the SNOW-9 scent still followed us on the street?

By the way, my memory of the original game is a bit vague but don't humans also snort traces of SNOW-9 as a narcotic, or is it just scattered by ne'er-do-wells for signal blocking purposes?

>>4494513
>don't humans also snort traces of SNOW-9 as a narcotic?

I don't remember that being a thing, at least not in the SegaCD version. It's just a thing that SNATCHER's use to block signals and help with their operations. I could see people adopting it for the same reason but I don't think anyone's snorting it.

>>4494528

SNOW-9 is also supposed to be lethal to humans in very high concentrations as well, thinking back on it.

File: 24.gif (225 KB, 624x512)

225 KB GIF

>>4494513
>>4494400

>SMELL

As you walk back to the turbocycle you take a deep, satisfied breath. Karaage black is in season.

"Man, that hotbox at the LAWSON is calling to me"

"Bubastis... didn't you just have dinner?"

"If that was dinner then licking my teeth is a three course meal. I barely touched it. Ah, but maybe we can address that later."

"It's important you maintain your strength, certainly."

You tap your JUNKER CARD against your watch. The security on the turbocycle deactivates and both of the gull-wings pop open with a hiss.

You slide in and power it up. Still warm. Nice. That took no time at all.

"Straight to LOTTERIA parking lot, yeah? If they were treating as a hit and run, they definitely missed things."

"You know it, partner. It's good to have a definite destination, but make sure , if you're ever unsure to consult the location hubs both in each location like at >>4488327 and in the turbocycle like at >>4487114 . Seeing your other options can be useful."

The turbo cycle lifts off

"Is it me, or are you being fussier than usual?"

"I apologise, Bubastis. I guess it seems like we have an actual case. I don't want us to miss anything."

" We won't, King. Now come on! Next stop Koreatown > Lotteria >Parking Lot, right?"

"Right! Hit it!"

>>4494781

Chuckling at the prime sakuga there ;)

File: 25.gif (79 KB, 624x512)

79 KB GIF

You fly over KOREATOWN and find a good spot to land/park. You do the thing where you let the car spin down slowly as it lands, which looks cool.

"We have arrived."

You step out to the [PARKING LOT]. No people or cars around, really. Guess on a friday, folks have other places to be. You smirk to yourself. MOST other folks.

"Let's see what we have here..."

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[ASPHALT]
[BUSHES]
[WALL]
[LAMP POST]
>TALK
[KING BROTHER]


>MOVE
[TURBOCYCLE]
[KOREA TOWN]

>SNIFF

>LISTEN

>USE KING BROTHER
[WRITE IN]

>>4494781
Quick question, what are LAWSON and DUNKEY OATEY- I just said it out load, it's Don Quixote's isn't it? Okay but what's Lawson?

>>4494822
>LOOK
[All Available]
>SNIFF
>LISTEN
>USE KING BROTHER
[Do a scan of any remaining blood stains as well as an atmospheric scan for any possible remaining traces of SNOW 9. Also check the bushes where our informant mentioned seeing another witness, see if there's any evidence of tracks.]

Sorry if this is too much, I haven't been in a Quest thread since before there was a /qst/ I don't know if this is acceptable or not.

>>4494839
Yup, this about covers it, supporting

File: 26.gif (78 KB, 624x512)

78 KB GIF

>>4494839

>SNIFF
You smell the LOTTERIA and...huh.. the distant smell of smoke. Not the cooking sort.

>LISTEN
Distant sirens and ambient street sounds.

>LOOK
[ASPHALT]
There are one or two places where it's actually slightly cracked with a a few drops of spattered blood.

"I guess here is where out John Doe got picked up and slammed like a rag doll a few times"

>LOOK
[LAMP POST]
It's still working, but its bent so hard that it looks like it giving you a polite bow.

"He got thrown here. Yeesh.. that might have shattered his spine he hit it so hard"

>USE KING BROTHER
[SCAN BLOOD STAINS]

" Though rain damaged, the blood spatter and pooling from where the victim was thrown into the street before allegedly having his chest caved in is sufficient for further analysis."

KING BROTHER makes some thinking and loading sounds.

"Male. Blood type O. Non secretor. Blood pooling and droplet analysis indicates that the attacker was moving at great speed with the victims blood on their hands toward this wall."

>LOOK
[WALL]
Sure enough, there's blood smears and droplets leading up the wall. In a few places up the wall all the way to the roof there are 5 divot marks marks always arranged in a similar pattern.


>LOOK
[BUSHES]
They look like they've been crushed or trampled. That makes sense.

"That suggests that's where the other witness was. Assuming relative distance, and similar lighting conditions last night. He would have been quite well hidden but able to see the attackers face quite clearly."

"In other words, we find them, we might find our potential SNATCHER."

"We will certainly be closer. If we can get them to describe the attackers face, we will be able to enter a composite into the JORDAN computer back at HQ, giving us a shorter list of suspects to track down."

"I just hope they're talkative when I find them."

"I am very glad to hear you say 'when', Bubastis."

>USE KING BROTHER
[ATMOSPHERE]

"There is no current presence of SNOW-9"

======

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[ASPHALT]
[BUSHES]
[WALL]
[LAMP POST]

>INVESTIGATE
[CRACKS]
[DIVOTS]
[BUSHES]
[WALL]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]


>MOVE
[TURBOCYCLE]
[KOREA TOWN]

>SNIFF

>LISTEN

>USE KING BROTHER
[WRITE IN]

==================
>Quick question, what are LAWSON and DUNKEY OATEY- I just said it out load, it's Don Quixote's isn't it? Okay but what's Lawson?

DUNKEY OATEY is indeed DON QUIJOTE, basically a store that sells everything (legal)

LAWSON is a convenience store. Sells the basics, booze, hot food, some groceries, comics.

>>4494839
>Sorry if this is too much, I haven't been in a Quest thread since before there was a /qst/ I don't know if this is acceptable or not.

No no, this is good. You seem to be into it which is really nice. I apologise for the illogical level of how much you're having to do this investigation by yourself, but that's kinda SNATCHER for you.

>>4494882
>I apologise for the illogical level of how much you're having to do this investigation by yourself, but that's kinda SNATCHER for you.
JUNKER was already underfunded and understaffed in the game and I imagine that after what could only have seemed to the public like the total defeat of the BIOROID MENACE (god I love the terminology of the game!) that people have pushed for even more pulled funding, since it's seemingly not needed. So it makes sense to me!

>TALK
[KING BROTHER] - Wouldn't someone striking hard enough to leave impacts on the asphalt also abrade and damage their own hands, and leave blood? Would the lack of any other blood indicate a SNATCHER? Can we detect any other blood?

>LOOK and INVESTIGATE
[ALL]

>USE KING BROTHER
Attempt to scan for any footprints, see if we can get a solid print to compare to shoe type later on if needed. Or maybe if we're lucky, find a trail we can follow.

File: 27.gif (75 KB, 624x512)

75 KB GIF

>>4494905

You crouch down next to KING BROTHER as they scan the various blood splatters.

"Wouldn't someone striking hard enough to leave impacts on the asphalt also abrade and damage their own hands, and leave blood? Would the lack of any other blood indicate a SNATCHER? Can we detect any other blood?"

"It seems our attacker, was chiefly using the victims own size against them. Holding them by the wrist and dashing them against the ground like someone cleaning their laundry on a rock."

"That's quite a picture.."

"I am getting traces of another type of blood near the victims final resting place. It is possible that either from punching through the victims body and hitting the road, or scratching themselves on the victims fractured ribs, the attacker injured themselves. I would need a larger sample to determine anything. SNATCHERS, once they have their skin suit, do indeed sweat, bleed and everything else. They do not have DNA as we understand it, but a sample would let me know the race, blood type and gender of the suspect at least, further limiting our search."

>LOOK
[ASPHALT]
"There's a few coins scattered along it between the victims final spot and the wall. Looks like the attacker was hastily trying to get away with whatever the victim had in his pockets."

"Do SNATCHERS rob people?"

"If they're trying to blend in with society, I guess they need money."

[BUSHES]

"Man, they are really messed up. We're looking for someone bigger than me, at least...

"Oh, THAT limits it down..."

[WALL]
Say what you will about Neo-Wakayama, we don't have much graffiti. I guess, who would see it?"

[LAMP POST]
"Even the inanimate objects here are polite."

"Bubastis.."

>INVESTIGATE
[CRACKS]

You find a wrapped piece of gum.

"Did that fall out of the victims pockets when they smacked into the ground?"

"Not impossible, I guess."

[DIVOTS]

You splay your fingers out near the divots. Finger holes. SNATCHERS don't have spiderman powers, he was literally sinking his fingers into the wall to climb it.

[BUSHES]

There's an appointment card tangled in the shrubs. It's for a SOAPLAND call "iyaaa~aan Soap: Gold Medal Massage." You feel like there's a forced and unimportant bilingual joke there.

[WALL]
At the base of the wall there is a note that says "Not us but them'.

"Spatters of the victims blood. The smearing aand low velocity of the droplets means this might have been held in the attackers hand. Possibly another item he was hastily stealing from the victim."

"So was he robbing him..or just trying to hide some sort of important evidence."

"Unknown at this time."

"Hmmm..."[//b]

"I will store all these items as potential evidence"


====

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>INVESTIGATE
[APPOINTMENT CARD]
[NOTE]
[GUM]

>MOVE
[TURBOCYCLE]
[KOREA TOWN]

>USE KING BROTHER

>>4494971
>"Oh, THAT limits it down..."
...hey. Nagging is one thing, but actual insults are another entirely.

>INVESTIGATE
[APPOINTMENT CARD]
[NOTE]
[GUM]

>>4494971
>INVESTIGATE
[NOTE]
Looking at it closely, the spacing of the 'the' and the 'm' in 'them' suggests that the note might used to have read not 'them' but 'the m...' with the rest of the word starting with 'm' being cut off. Same might be true for the 'US'. Dunno what to make of that right now but it's worth keeping in mind.

File: 28.gif (78 KB, 624x512)

78 KB GIF

>>4495013
"..hey. Nagging is one thing, but actual insults are another entirely.

"I have been attempting do adjust my behaviour based on how I see people who care for each other interact, Bubastis. There seems to be a measure of banter between them. I will try to refrain from this. Sorry."

>INVESTIGATE
[APPOINTMENT CARD]

"Hmm. 10:15pm 10/13/55"


"Bubastis, that's tonight. This handwriting doesn't match the one on the earlier note."

[NOTE]
"This seems kinda vague"

"He might have had his reasons, or it might be an incomplete note."

[GUM]

"hey, this is quaruple bubble. i didn't think they made this in Japan."

"They don't. perhaps it's from an import store. The victim might be from America, same as you."

"Canada."

"Still technically part of America.."

>>4495038
That's what I was thinking too. Probably another half of this note somewhere...

>>4495051
...and with this I think it might have meant USA instead of "us".Maybe something's going on with the SNATCHERS planning or planting the seeds of an operation there? Too little to really form any solid speculation.

>>4494971
>USE KING BROTHER
See if we can get any DNA samples from abraded skin from the divots the SNATCHER left while climbing. (Yeah probably not but it doesn't hurt to be thorough.)

>>4495051
What time is it now?

>>4495051
>"I have been attempting do adjust my behaviour based on how I see people who care for each other interact, Bubastis. There seems to be a measure of banter between them. I will try to refrain from this. Sorry."
I may have overreacted. Sorry, I'm... sensitive about my height.

>>4495061
For some reason my brain is stuck on it saying "not USN but the marines"

>>4495075
Hmm, assuming that the US still has its strong military presence in and around Japan you could be onto something if the SNATCHERS are trying to infiltrate one of the US military's branches in the area. Though why they'd only try to infiltrate one instead of both, I don't know.

Probably getting ahead of ourselves though.

>>4495051
>MOVE
Turbocycle > the address on the appointment card.

File: 1445620891-a56645593191f2(...).jpg (105 KB, 600x365)

105 KB JPG

>>4494839

How can you be a member of this Tajikistani shadow puppetry forum and yet have never heard of Lawson?

>>4495075

>>For some reason my brain is stuck on it saying "not USN but the marines"

Eh, nah. I see the logic but I doubt anyone would ever use "USN" in anything but a technical reference. If USN instead of Navy why not USMC instead of Marines? I agree that it's not "them" but I think the message is something different.

File: 29.gif (118 KB, 624x512)

118 KB GIF

>>4495061
>USE KING BROTHER
See if we can get any DNA samples from abraded skin from the divots the SNATCHER left while climbing.

KING BROTHER scans the divots.

"I am sorry, Bubastis. If there were any skin samples, they were so faint as to be washed away by the rain."

You shrug. It was a long shot but you wanted to try. You check your watch.

"It's 9:47pm now. By turbo cycle we can make that appointment with a little bit of wiggle room."

"Sounds good to me. There's an address on the card. makes sense that it's in the [RED LIGHT DISTRICT]. Apparently they've got room 5 booked."

You both head back to the turbocycle. You speak up.

"Look..King...about earlier...I may have overreacted. Sorry, I'm... sensitive about my height."

"I understand, Bubastis. I guess it didn't occur to me. Even though you're slight for a human, I will always look up to you and not just physically."

You hop into the TURBO CYCLE and take a comparatively quick flight to the
[RED LIGHT DISTRICT]

You park by some alcohol vending machines in a dark alleyway. Not ideal, but around here even you're a little stuck for a park.

You pull your collar up as you walk into the main street. Thick with decadence and desperation.

"It's not an investigation without a trip to a strip joint."

"Soapland."

You and king exchange a glance and shrug.

"Brothel."

You ignore the other locations and make your way hastily to the place called 'Iyaa~aan Soap: Gold Medal.'. Fistful of minutes to spare. You stroke your chin, thoughtfully.

>SOAPLAND
[ENTER THROUGH FRONT]
[SNEAK THROUGH ALLEY TO BACK EXIT]
[CLIMB NEARBY FIRE ESCAPE TO GET ON ROOF]

>>4495234
>[CLIMB NEARBY FIRE ESCAPE TO GET ON ROOF]

>>4495235

I disagree. Knocking shops will have security, sneaking in will only complicate things and could cause trouble. We have an appointment - let's go in as though we ought to be there, not act shifty and start scaring people off.

>>4495235
>>4495237
GM: Don't worry, I can wait for more opinions. It's not a fast quest.

>>4495234
>[ENTER THROUGH FRONT]

File: 30.gif (94 KB, 624x512)

94 KB GIF

>>4495237
>>4495274
You casually walk in through the front door. There is a front desk with a polite, middle aged woman dressed as a swimming coach behind the desk.

"Ah! Welcome! Welcome! Relaxation awaits!"

She maintains her polite smile when she sees you but her cogs are obviously turning. Not really the normal clientele. She looks you up and down.

"Did you just start? I'm not great with faces."

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[DESK]
[DECORE]
[RECEPTIONIST]


>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[RECEPTIONIST]


>MOVE
[FORWARD]
[OUTSIDE]

>>4495301
>LOOK
Everything

>POSSESSIONS
Show ID

>TALK
I need to know who has the appointment in room 5 at 10:15pm today

>>4495304

Don't say that! That screams "cop". She thinks we're a working girl, play along a d say we're meeting a client in room5, where is it/what's the key/is there an alarm button to call the bouncers if the John gets violent?

>>4495301
>LOOK
[RECEPTIONIST]
[DESK]

>TALK
[RECEPTIONIST]

>>4495307
Do you think she doesn't know who works in room 5?

>>4495314

Clearly she doesn't know everyone. It may be the girls don't work set rooms, or are outside contractors so to speak. In any way, it's stupid to waltz into a grey market joint and say "hello I am police or near enough"

>>4495316
We've just flashed our badge to literal drug smugglers and everything was okay.

>>4495317

They didn't want to disturb their drug drop. This is different.

>>4495316
Nah, I feel like we may as well be upfront. I get the feeling people know enough that a) they're willing to cooperate when Snatchers are involved and b) they trust Junkers more than the average cop. Only issue I can see is that they might not tell us for reasons of discretion, and we don't have any kind of a warrant.

>>4495322
Not really. JUNKERS aren't police, they have no concern for something like a brothel. Also I have no idea if prostitution is legal or illegal in the cyberpunk future of Japan so it might just not be an issue.

Now I still think that there's reasons we might want to avoid telling the receptionist who we are. We don't know if she knows who is coming to Room 5 for the appointment or if she might warn them that something's up if we make it clear to her who we are. And indeed, if I was witness to a SNATCHER attack and then got tipped off that some lady I'd never seen or heard of before got here before me and was waiting for me, I'd spook and leave. Especially since a JUNKER was previously snatched, so there's precedent for JUNKERS not being guaranteed safe.

So for the sake of not chancing our lead slipping away I'm against flashing the badge. If the guy were already here and we wanted to quickly reach him with as little hassle as possible it'd be different, but that's not the case here.

File: 31.gif (93 KB, 624x512)

93 KB GIF

>>4495304
>>4495311

>LOOK
[DESK]
On closer inspection it's made from the wall of an Olympic pool or something.

[DECORE]
Looks pretty fancy. Vaguely swimming themed. Whatever the dumb joke is, they're committed to it.

"It's really peaceful here. I thought I'd hear something indecent."

"Ah. They probably soundproofed the rooms pretty well."

[RECEPTIONIST]
She's maintaining a polite smile, but she looks quite nervous. I guess only some people travel with robots after all...

You crouch next to KING BROTHER

"Is my JUNKER CARD gonna do any good here?"

"Coin flip. About a decade ago, JUNKER was still known to be a branch of the police before it was controlled directly by the Government Information Bureau. Some people either can't tell the difference because they figure wherever there's JUNKERS, there must be SNATCHERS..."

"Those last guys were okay with it."

"That's true! I guess in their case they were relieved. Maybe it'll all work out.."

The receptionist leans over the desk to look at you both. She smiles but her eyes are worried. She is glancing around.

"Ah. Are you okay? Are you lost..?"


===============

GM: seems like it could go either way

GM: OOPS SORRY.

================
>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]
[JUNKER ID]
[APPOINTMENT CARD]

>LOOK
[DESK]
[DECORE]
[RECEPTIONIST]


>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[RECEPTIONIST]


>MOVE
[FORWARD]
[OUTSIDE]


========

You check your watch. 10:11pm.


GM: If cautious, consider the order you do things in. People will likely be less nervous if you explain yourself. If you're going the honesty path.

>>4495337
>GM: If cautious, consider the order you do things in. People will likely be less nervous if you explain yourself. If you're going the honesty path.
Eeeeeeehh alright twist my arm why don'tcha. I changed my mind, let's try being straight here. The receptionist already seems a bit leery as it is.

>POSSESSIONS
[JUNKER ID]

>TALK
[RECEPTIONIST]

>POSSESSIONS
[APPOINTMENT CARD]

>LOOK
[ALL]

File: 32.gif (94 KB, 624x512)

94 KB GIF

>>4495339
>POSSESSIONS
[JUNKER ID]
While she is leaning over the desk to check on you, you show the receptionist your JUNKER ID. She almost reflexively recoils at the sight of a person in drawing something from their coat pocket. She almost falls back behind the desk and back into her chair.

"what a w..wh..what seems to be the problem, officer. Just massage here."

>TALK
[RECEPTIONIST]
You hold up your free hand placatingly and continue to hold out your JUNKER CARD.

"Look closely, please. Not a cop. I'm a JUNKER."

"I'm not a robot!"

"I don't think you, any of your staff or any of your clients ARE. Please just listen to me. I need one of your client's help tracking down one of these ah...robots. To keep honest people like you safe."

The receptionist nods.

>POSSESSIONS
[APPOINTMENT CARD]
"I gotta talk, privately with whoever's this is. He's not in any trouble but you all could be if I don't get to speak with him."

The receptionist nervously works on her computer.

"Lucas Tucker...he'll always be slightly late..."

She steeples her fingers

"If you make this worth my while, I can take Misty off duty and let you wait in room 5 for him. I can then close the room up so you can ask him all you need. Help me out though, yes? This will make him not come back here as a client."

The receptionist rubs her fingers together.

>LOOK
[DESK]
There are a series of large emergency-looking buttons next to her computer. Not labelled. Guess she knows what each does.

[DECORE]
There's imitation gold medals around here. Not for real events, either. You're pretty sure paizuri isn't an event anyways. You're more about the winter olympics.


[RECEPTIONIST]
She looks nervous but ready to do business. I guess she's survived this long...

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]
[CASH]

>LOOK
[DESK]
[DECORE]
[RECEPTIONIST]


>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[RECEPTIONIST]


>MOVE
[FORWARD]
[OUTSIDE]

>>4495337
Seems sound, might as well lay it out then. I say we tell the receptionist that we found the appointment card at the scene of a possible Snatcher attack and we need to know who was going to be there.

>>4495354
Oops, that's what I get for not refreshing.

>>4495353
Hmm, dunno about that strategy. If he's not likely to hoof it as soon as we start asking questions, it might be easier (and cheaper) just to collar him either before or after his appointment. Saves them losing a customer, too.

Speaking of, do we have a limited amount of cash or is it just assumed we have as much as we need in any given situation a la the game?

>>4495355
If it's like the game, which everything until now seems to be, our cash is specifically for greasing the wheel in situations just like this. Paying off informants or enhancing people's ability to remember things, typical stuff. So I'd say yeah, help a working girl out. We should have [enough] money.

>POSSESSIONS
[CASH]

>>4495355
>>4495374
GM: It is just so. For the purposes of completing your JUNKER duties, particularly greasing people, your cash is kind of nebulous and never really runs out. Don't abuse this.

>>4495353
>Grease the wheels

>>4495353
Go ahead and pay her, but also when talking to the guy let's see if we can talk him out of holding this against them. No need to ruin a good thing, eh? And really, all this is to protect him from that guy he saw, he should be grateful.

>>4495353
>You're pretty sure paizuri isn't an event anyways.
...but maybe it SHOULD be

>>4495353

Ask the receptionist if this guy is a frequent customer. When did he start coming, how often does he come, does he always or mostly use the same girl? If there is one he prefers then that girl could actually be an underworld contact of some kind, passing info discreetly under the cover of a soundproofed massage parlour.

File: 33.gif (94 KB, 624x512)

94 KB GIF

>>4495374
>>4495378
>>4495609
>>4495839

>>4495378
>>4495609
>>4495374

You hand over a non specific wad of bills with a small sigh.

The receptionist happily counts it, doing little bows as she does.

"A~aah thank you! Thank you! Very generous."

She leans over to microphone on her desk and presses a button.

"Hey Misty? Don't worry about your 10:15. I'm gonna keep you on standby for walk-ins. Don't worry, you'll still get a small retainer."

"Okay, sounds good!"

You put back your wad of bills.

"He prefers Misty?"

"Ah, no. Mister Tucker never requests a specific girl. He is good with all sizes. He just always books a longer session. Maybe 3 times a week. Genuinely helps him relax, he says. Almost like its therapy to him."

The receptionist, gestures down the corridor.

"This way, please. Room 5 just in the middle."

===

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]
[CASH]

>LOOK
[DESK]
[DECORE]
[RECEPTIONIST]


>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[RECEPTIONIST]


>MOVE
[ROOM FIVE]
[OUTSIDE]

>>4496069
Quick question, we already LOOKed at the three options available. Does their continued placement in the action list indicate that LOOKing at them again will give further information?

>>4496116
GM: It's basically keeping with the game aesthetic. There will almost always be something else to LOOK or INVESTIGATE, Whether it continues to be relevant to the investigation (or whether it ever was) is known only to me.

It's basically there as an option, but I want players to go on what they think they should do, as an investigator.

I concede, it's a niche. My reasoning is that anyone playing this is at least partially onboard with SNATCHER to begin with.

>>4496152
Fair.
>LOOK
[Receptionist]
See if we can ~surreptitiously~ gauge how she's doing. Like, she seem like she's going along with this or is there still agitation?

>MOVE
[Room 5]

File: 34.gif (122 KB, 624x512)

122 KB GIF

>>4496171

>LOOK
[Receptionist]

She looks beyond content with this situation. She is relaxedly going back to taking online bookings and taking phone calls at her desk.

>MOVE
[Room 5]

You slip into room 5, it has a heavy, sliding door.

It has dim, moody lighting and smells incredibly clean.

"This is room five."

"Don't start, King.."

===

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]


>LOOK
[SHELF]
[TUB]
[INFLATABLE BED]
[OUTFITS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>>4496233
>LISTEN
>SNIFF
>LOOK
[ALL]

File: 35.gif (107 KB, 624x512)

107 KB GIF

>>4496275

>LISTEN
>SNIFF
>LOOK
[ALL]

>>4496275

>LISTEN
You hear foot steps coming up the hall towards you.

>SNIFF
It smells pleasant in here. Clean. Like chlorine and warm water.

>LOOK

[SHELF]
It's filled with all sorts of lotions, creams and gels. Sticky, shiny, scented and even medicinal.

"Classy joint."

"The classiest."

[TUB]

"This thing is huge."

"Well, it is designed for two people."

[INFLATABLE BED]

"Doesn't look that comfortable to me"

[OUTFITS]
There is a selection swimsuits ranging from ones that look competition standard to others that are woefully fetishistic and impractical.

"Probably best you didn't pretend to be an employee.

"I would have just waited in the room like I'm doing now. I wouldn't have had to change into one of these."

"Ah. Point. That's good."

"Not that I don't think I couldn't pull some of these off. But the pocket space and protection would be terrible."

"Non existent."

The door slides open and a man with his head down slumps in.

"Aaah, man, do I need this. You would not believe the week I've had."

You turn to him, with a small neutral smile

"You know, I actually might."

The man's eyes widen, he doesn't seem scared so much as confused. The door makes a clunk noise behind him but he doesn't seem to notice.

He nervously asks

"You..ah..you new at this?"

He looks at KING BROTHER and tilts his head.

=========

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]


>LOOK
[SHELF]
[TUB]
[INFLATABLE BED]
[OUTFITS]
[MAN]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>>4496346
>LOOK
[MAN]

>POSSESSIONS
[JUNKER ID]

>TALK
[MAN]

File: 36.gif (111 KB, 624x512)

111 KB GIF

>>4496371
>LOOK
[MAN]
Six foot or just shy. Medium build. Caucasian. Pale complexion. Long features. he is dressed in winter weight civilian clothing.

>POSSESSIONS
[JUNKER ID]
You show your JUNKER ID. Cogs turn in his head and he does a slow nod.

>TALK
[MAN]

"Lucas Tucker."

"Yeah. yeah that's me."

"You know who I am?"

"Ah. Sort of. You're like the men in black for alien body snatcher or something?"

You shrug.

"Something like that, I guess."

He rubs his upper arm

"I gotta admit I was hoping you worked here..heh.."

Not really appropriate, but he's clearly nervous still.

===
>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]


>LOOK
[SHELF]
[TUB]
[INFLATABLE BED]
[OUTFITS]
[MAN]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN]

>ASK
[JOB]
[VICTIM]
[ATTACKER]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>>4496453
>ASK
[All]

>LISTEN

>>4496453
>Calm him down. Say he's not in any danger. Invite him to sit on the bed (for the lack of any other accommodation)
>Ask: all
>Use King Brother: record the conversation.

>>4496478

I don't think we can ask him to identify the victim yet. He's a John Doe and if our only pictures are those of a mangled body it's a bit stark for an opening gambit. Save it for later.

>>4496478
GM: regarding recording. KING BROTHER is kind of always recording. Every so often they send data back to the operator at JUNKER HQ

File: 37.gif (111 KB, 624x512)

111 KB GIF

>>4496470
>>4496478

You offer him to sit on the inflatable bed, he thanks you but declines. Opting to lean on a towel rail.

"You're not in any kind of trouble, Mister Tucker."

He swallows hard

"Naw, I mean... you guys are the good guys right? Keeping us safe from things we don't understand and all that. Body snatchers."

You nod.

"SNATCHERs is generally what they go by. Or bioroids to some. They look like people but they are much, much stronger and faster. They are incredibly dangerous."
"Yeah, it used to be in the news more. I remember."

He lowers his head

"You think that's what I saw? That green eyed monster?"
"That's what we're trying to figure out. If you tell me what you can, we might be able to stop it."
"If it knows you're onto it, it may come after both of us....I don't know that it didn't see me.."
"The sooner I know anything the sooner I can junk it. You're safe. trust me."

Lucas nods.

[JOB]
"Real quick, what do you do for a living, Lucas?"
"What does that...?"
"It'll let us know where to find you. You don't want us meeting you here each time."
"That's true. I work night security at Ultra Box."
"The box factory?"
"The same."

You fold your arms. Meat and potatoes time.
>ASK
[ATTACKER]

"Could you try your best to describe your attacker. If you could describe his facial structure, eyes, nose, mouth - possibly his hair, we could limit down our suspects. Track them down before they strike again."

Lucas rests his hands in his lap and tries to think.

"He has kind of a sunken bony face. Hard cheek bones and a square jaw like me, but that's where out similarities end. He had kinda weary, almond shaped eyes with a hard look. His nose was thin and slightly upturned. His mouth was big, with a slightly full bottom lip. Looked frowny, even when he wasn't frowning."

"His hair?"
"I'm not certain, cause he was wearing a winter hat, like with the flaps? But Some of his hair was sticking out the front. It looked dark and a little shaggy."

"Any idea about his race?
"He might have been spanish or asian a bit like you, actually. What's your deal?"
"My town and towns like it became huge convergence points for refugees after the 91 catastrophe. Real melting pots. So, I mean...there's a lot going on there. Don't worry, you're not gonna offend me or anything."
"Can't tell if you should be coming out of an igloo or a pyramid..."
("Okay, I was wrong before...")

>LISTEN
Pleasant tranquil music is being piped through the speakers. Lucas is quietly chewing.

=====

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]


>LOOK
[SHELF]
[TUB]
[INFLATABLE BED]
[OUTFITS]
[MAN]

>INSPECT
[MAN]
[SHELF]
[OUTFITS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN]

>ASK
[GREEN EYES]
[VICTIM]
[ATTACKER]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>>4496628
>INSPECT
[MAN]

>ASK
[GREEN EYES]
[VICTIM]

>>4496628
>INSPECT
[MAN]
[OUTFITS]

>ASK
[GREEN EYES]
[VICTIM]

File: 38.gif (125 KB, 624x512)

125 KB GIF

>>4496640
>INSPECT
[MAN]

You pat around Lucas, unzipping his jacket and checking his pockets.

"WHoa! Is this some kind of service?!"

"Just making sure you're not carrying anything weird or suspicious. Like a weapon."

"I leave my weapon at work. I'm here for my break."

>ASK
[GREEN EYES]
You mentioned green eyes. Were they a glowing green, would you say?"

"I dunno. It might have just been how the light caught them, but they seemed to briefly light up. Like a cats or something..."

[VICTIM]
"I know it's a long shot, but is there any descriptors you can give me of the victim?

"Before he got beat to Salisbury steak you mean? Hmm. Honestly, pound for pound he looked like he coulda taken the guy who beat him to death. Had a thick neck and a pretty strong build. His face was too messed up to see clearly but he had kinda wild blonde hair. Whiter blonde, not like mine. Something about his clothes and build and hair seemed familiar. Like I'd seen him around before. Like at work or around work."

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]


>LOOK
[SHELF]
[TUB]
[INFLATABLE BED]
[OUTFITS]
[MAN]

>INSPECT
[MAN]
[SHELF]
[OUTFITS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN]

>ASK
[WRITE IN]
[CHEWING]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>MOVE
[OUTSIDE]

>>4496657
>[CHEWING]
>[ARGUMENT]
>[WHY HIDE?]

>>4496657
>LISTEN

>SNIFF

File: 39.gif (111 KB, 624x512)

111 KB GIF

>>4496684
>[CHEWING]
"What're you chewing there?"

"Oh. Nicotine gum. Damn near have to chew this stuff in my sleep. Even with everything, I'm determined to quit this year. I tell you, things have made it tricky."

"Keep at it. I'm right there with you."

"I sometimes it feels like youre one bad day away from your next packet of luckys."
"Sobranies."

Lucas whistles.

"That'd set you back!"
"One of the reasons I quit."

>[ARGUMENT]
"You were close. What were they arguing about?"

"Good question. Blondie was trying to shake down green eyes, I think. He was saying he knew he could afford to pay him and it was that or lose everything. Green eyes said he was warning him. Blondie mentioned green eyes girl friend and at that point green eyes snapped. God, the sound he made..."

>[WHY HIDE?]
"Why hide in the bushes just because two guys were arguing?"

"Hey, I was unarmed and older than these two guys. I was just going for a burger during my break and I heard shouting between two punks. I wasn't gonna make my presence known - maybe they'd turn on me!"

>LISTEN
The music has switched to grocery store quality ambient jazz.

>SNIFF
You smell mint gum and a selection of fruity lotions.

=====
>LOOK
[SHELF]
[TUB]
[INFLATABLE BED]
[OUTFITS]
[MAN]

>INSPECT
[MAN]
[SHELF]
[OUTFITS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN]

>ASK
[WRITE IN]
[SOUND]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>MOVE
[OUTSIDE]

>>4496705
>>TALK
>[MAN]
"What happened after the attack?"

>>4496705
>ASK
[SOUND]

This whole thing seems a bit weird though. A SNATCHER shouldn't really care about any girlfriend that's a part of its cover. Why would it be being blackmailed? If it knew that anyone had found out it would just eliminate the person.

Unless perhaps a SNATCHER actually developed emotions and stuff and is trying to live a normal life? That could be an interesting take on things. Gotta file that away for later.

>>4496772
It's possible, I guess, but seems pretty unlikely. If I had to guess I'd figure the SNATCHER thought this guy was too deep in his business and was at risk of finding out, so he decided to take him out before it got to that point. I agree that it does seem pretty suspicious. I guess next step is to run the description through JORDAN and pay him a visit.

>>4496705
>ASK
[VICTIM]
He said he sounded familiar, ask if he has any more specifics about when or where he might have seen him - was he a client or something? If so we might be able to work from any records at the factory to find out his identity. Pretty long shot, though.

>>4497408
That's a very good point, I just assumed that the blackmail must have been the guy having found out he was a SNATCHER, but there's plenty of reasons someone could be blackmailing someone else. Really let my imagination run away with me.

File: 40.gif (115 KB, 624x512)

115 KB GIF

>>4496741
>>TALK
>[MAN]
"What happened after the attack?"
"Green eyes rummaged through the guy, ran off with his wallet and all of his stuff then high tailed it out of there - it's gonna sound crazy but he climbed up a wall as he left, I'm sure of it. I was so freaked I just kept running in the opposite direction. I eventually regrouped at a 7-11, but I was still late back for work. "

>ASK
[SOUND]
"You say green eyes made some kind of sound?"
"It was freaky! Somewhere between a wolf howl and a strain whistle but like someone was doing it into a fan - you know how your voice goes when you do that?"

>ASK
[VICTIM]
"Think hard. Is there anything else you can tell me about the victim? Doesn't matter if it seems silly."

"I could have been imagining it but I feel like the guy had one of those weird accents. Like, some famous guys had it so people always imitate it? Like how me and you would say 'bar' and 'chowder' this guy would be all "KAA" and "CHOWDAH" - whatever that accent is. I know most cities have more ethnic diversity than they used to since the catastrophe, but it was still unusual to hear."

Lucas clicks his fingers

"That's the thing. I wasn't seeing him AT work but just sort of around. You know like when you a town is small enough you just sorta keep seeing someone around? He'd be at the Lotteria, the Lawson - I think I saw him here. Just around you know. I almost though he was following me. But I mean, it's just a small town."

Lucas thinks again

"I remember, one time bit back now I accidently got off the wrong tube stop and ended up in district 4 and he was there, too. I don't even know what there is there besides apartments and some crummy small businesses. I guess the guy got about."

KING BROTHER looks at you.

"Bubastis, that's where JUNKER HQ is."

"Jeez, this guy was really getting around..."

>LOOK
[SHELF]
[TUB]
[INFLATABLE BED]
[OUTFITS]
[MAN]

>INSPECT
[MAN]
[SHELF]
[OUTFITS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN]

>ASK
[WRITE IN]
[SOUND]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>MOVE
[OUTSIDE]

>>4497573
>[KING BROTHER]
If we can get exact day when Mr. Tucker saw our guy at Disctrict 4 tube stop can we get camera feed from that day from said stop?

>>4497580
>SNIFF
Make sure we're *constantly* sniffing so we don't miss the scent of SNOW 9. Never not be sniffing.

>TALK
[KING BROTHER] Do you recognize what accent he's talking about?


I realize this is getting a bit ahead of things right now but I wanted to get this idea out before I forget: Since dogs can recognize SNATCHERS, would it be worthwhile to maybe go to a pet shop or animal shelter and buy/adopt a small dog to take with us?

>>4497627
>Make sure we're *constantly*
You're gonna make Bast hyperventilate.

>maybe go to a pet shop or animal shelter and buy/adopt a small dog to take with us?
There is a dog at HQ, but I don't think we can just take the good boy with us.

File: 41.gif (125 KB, 624x512)

125 KB GIF

>>4497622
>[KING BROTHER]
"If we can get exact day when Mr. Tucker saw our guy at Disctrict 4 tube stop can we get camera feed from that day from said stop?"

"It's possible, Bubastis. But the transport authority only holds onto its footage for about a month."

"Oh this was over a month ago."

"Damnit!"

"I guess everyone's trying to save money..."

>SNIFF
You smell mint, scented lotions - mostly coconut and a trace of cologne.

"Do I smell or somethin'? I try to freshen up before I come here. Least I can do for getting these girls to touch me. That and paying them, I guess."

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
"Do you recognize what accent he's talking about?"

"Processing...on current information it is most likely Australian or Bostonian."

"Bostonian would make his love of American bubblegum make sense..."

======
GM: regarding getting a dog, I won't stop you but there are three things to consider.
1. You will have to wrangle it
2. You'll be putting it in danger
3. Canonically, dogs aren't fond of navigators either. They don't react as badly as they do to SNATCHERS but they do pester them.

=====

>LOOK
[SHELF]
[TUB]
[INFLATABLE BED]
[OUTFITS]
[MAN]

>INSPECT
[MAN]
[SHELF]
[OUTFITS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]
[MAN]

>ASK
[WRITE IN]


>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>MOVE
[OUTSIDE]

>>4497681
I feel like we've got a good few leads to follow up, so if no other anons have further questions I say we thank Mr Tucker for his time and

>MOVE
[OUTSIDE]

>>4497681
>MOVE
[OUTSIDE] then [HOSPITAL]

File: 42.gif (97 KB, 624x512)

97 KB GIF

>>4497817
>>4498013
You turn to KING BROTHER.
"You got all of that?"
"Indeed. Beginning hourly transmission to JUNKER HQ for back up and analysis."

You turn to Lucas Tucker.
"Thank you for your time, Mr Tucker. Please don't let this slightly odd experience put you off this place."

He tilts his head.

"Yeah, no it won't. Why would it? You've been as helpful as you are pretty as a picture. Besides I can probably reschedule."

You and KING BROTHER leave through the front entrance.

The receptionist smiles at you as she speaks into her microphone.

You and KING BROTHER walk back to the turbocycle.

You flick the over head flight switches as the engine powers up.

"Next stop, Shichikokoyama Hospital."

KING BROTHER beeps in agreement.

As you begin to speed across the night sky listening to century old music on the radio, KING BROTHERS vidphone rings.

"Incoming call from JUNKER HQ. Operator Takako Bong is on the other line. Putting you through."

"Ahoy-hoy Bass! You're keeping busy tonight I see! Just letting you know that the Neo-Wakayama police have been talking with the good folks at Shichikokoyama Hospital. You've got clearance to use a roof landing spot. Walk in with your JUNKER ID, and they'll take you right to where our JOHN DOE is. Should keep things smooth. And hey, since you're in KOREATOWN, bring me back some buchimgae, huh? Bye-bee!"

*click*

You give a small sigh as you streak towards a large hospital and apply the air brakes. You can see on the roof, directing you.

"Man, this place is huge. I'm glad we won't have to nose around ourselves."

"No argument."

File: 43.gif (97 KB, 624x512)

97 KB GIF

You spin down to the roof and pop the gull wings on the TURBO CYCLE you and KING BROTHER are greeted by a staff member.

"Right this way, JUNKER. We've been expecting you!"

They yell over the winds and HOVER-AMBULANCES at this height.

You are greeted in turn by orderly's and nurses taking you to lifts and corridors directly to one of the morgues. Specifically for yet to be identified people.

"Nothing from his DNA or fingerprints?"
you ask as the final nurse wheels out the wrapped body.

"Cops tried that, but he doesn't have a criminal record so I guess he's not on file. And we can't retinal scan him like we can with Neo-Wakayama citizens because.."

They unzip the body back revealing a shredded, meaty face that seems to still be screaming. It's eyes are pulped.

"Our boy barely has a face..."

You nod.

"I'll be outside, lemme know when you're done"

KING BROTHER beeps, extending their visual module to scan around the body.

"Bubastis, we might be able to work with this..."


>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[FACE]
[HANDS]
[CHEST]
[LEG]
[ABDOMEN]
[PERSONAL EFFECTS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>>4498153
>LOOK
[ALL]
>SNIFF
>LISTEN
>ASK
"What about dental records?"

File: 44.gif (88 KB, 624x512)

88 KB GIF

>>4498154
>LOOK
[FACE]
A bloodied mangled mess. Almost skinless with wet, crushed eyes. Half the teeth are missing, with those that remain knocked crooked and bent inward.
"Wow, I lost my appetite."
"Whoa! Really?"
"No, I could demolish some bulgoggi right now. This IS gross, though."
"I guess dental records are out, though..."
"He might not have had any here."

[HANDS]
Dislocated at the wrist, elbows and shoulder. Huge amounts of internal bleeding.
"King. Any hair or skin under the nails?"
"Hmm. No, I'm afraid not. I don't think he ever got a chance to fight back...
"Worth a shot.."

[CHEST]
Caved in, with the heart smashed flat. All the ribs are busted and jagged, some are bending outwards instead of inwards.

[LEGS]
Muscular like the rest of him. Both kneecaps shattered, both legs dislocated at the hip socket. Severe internal bleeding.

[ABDOMEN]
Most organs ruptured and pulped. Stomach burst with signs of a partially digested meal.

[PERSONAL EFFECTS]
A tailored suit, sweater and a single earing.

>LISTEN
Dead silence save for KING BROTHERS quiet server-like chirps and the nurse outside humming.

>SNIFF
Smells kinda dead and meaty.

=====

>POSSESSIONS
[ANY]

>LOOK
[FACE]
[HANDS]
[CHEST]
[LEG]
[ABDOMEN]
[PERSONAL EFFECTS]

>TALK
[KING BROTHER]

>LISTEN

>SNIFF

>USE KING BROTHER

>>4498159
>SEARCH
[SUIT POCKETS]

>OTHER
Are those locks of hair under Bast's eyes, or is she just really emaciated?

>>4498159
>[CHEST]
If what we learned at at the parking lot is true, the perp could have injured themselves on the ribs as he punched through victims chest. Check the ribs for clues

>>4498159
>LOOK
[ABDOMEN]
[PERSONAL EFFECTS]

>>4498159
>TALK
[KING BROTHER] Can we get an analysis on that partially digested meal? Maybe give us an idea of where the victim was eating prior to the attack.

What could have caused some of his ribs to be bending outwards instead of in like from a normal impact?