Behold, The Starry Night Sky

This Scenario deals with a terrorist attack utilizing the nearly completed Tokyo N◎VA Sky Tree. The Scenario's main event occurs on the Sky Tree's opening ceremony. The Act begins a few days prior to this day, giving the Players time to respond and prepare.

Scenario Data
Players: 3~5 Players

Playtime: 4~5 Hours

Story
Black Widow, a terrorist from the Society of True Teaching's Purification Faction, has created a plot to mass slaughter the citizens of N◎VA by weaponizing a virus. For that purpose, she coerced and brainwashed a researcher by the name of Ninomiya Satoshi. Under her control, tucked away in a hidden laboratory, Satoshi created the virus "Wandering Spider". However, Satoshi briefly regained control of his senses, and used that moment to report the incident to the police. There he was caught in the crossfire of a shoot-out between the police and terrorists, dying in the process.

Afterwards, Black Widow manipulated a police officer named Blues Bradley into stealing Wandering Spider, after which he disappeared. The Cast, for their own various reasons, will get involved in the incident, and work to stop Black Widow's plan to spread her virus throughout the city from the Tokyo N◎VA Sky Tree. If Black Widow's plan is stopped, the Act ends.

Character Creation
Before creating Characters, be sure to distribute the Act Handout to the Players.

Quick Start
For this Scenario, the following Sample Characters are recommended.


 * [1)Fate]: Indomitable Detective
 * [2)Talkie]: Guerilla Reporter
 * [3)Inu]: Dog of Justice
 * [4)Neuro]: Neuro Kid
 * [5)Katana]: Modern Knight

Construction
For Character Construction, the following Styles are recommended as Personas.


 * [1)Fate]: Fate/Detective
 * [2)Talkie]: Talkie/Marionet Reporter
 * [3)Inu]: Inu/Blackhound Mobile Investigations Officer
 * [4)Neuro]: Neuro/Hacker
 * [5)Katana]: Katana, Kabutowari, etc./Fighter-for-Hire

[5)Katana] in particular is prone to isolation. It is suggested that a Player that will actively try to team up play them.

Cast Connections
Cast Members take a Connection with the Cast Member to their left in the following order. If there is no particular preference for suit than  is suggested.

[1)Fate] --> [2)Talkie] --> [3)Inu] --> [4)Neuro] --> [5)Katana] --> [1)Fate]

Recommended XP
This Scenario was designed with Cast Member that have 0~30 XP in mind.

Necessary Miracles
In order to avoid dying from this Scenario's Guest's Instant-Kill Miracles it is recommended that the Cast Members have 3 or more Defensive Miracles among them(Or 4 or more depending on a Scenario's progression).

If there are only 3 Cast Members, then the amount of Instant-Kill Miracles will be reduced to compensate. As such, the recommended number of Defensive Miracles is reduced to 2 or more(Or 4 or more depending on the Scenario's progression).

Act Handout
     

Opening 1: A Detective in a Bar
Scene Player: [1)Fate]

Appearance Rating: Impossible

Explanation
Depiction 1 is a flashback scene taking place one month prior where [1)Fate] makes a promise with Ninomiya Satoshi. Once that is done the scene shifts to Depiction 2 in the present day.

Depiction 1
On a night one month ago, you find yourself in a bar on Asakusa's Ammonia Avenue. You've only had a little to drink, and the old-fashioned bar is absent of any loud customers. Opposite you sits Ninomiya Satoshi. The two of you are in the middle of a game of Black Jack*

[Alright, This time for sure I'm winning back what you took from me, [1)Fate].]

Ninomiya is as confident as always, holding his usual drink, a Gin on the rocks.

[If you want to quit, now's the time.]

In your hand is an Ace and Jack of Spades. You've already won.


 * If the Player doesn't know the rules to Black Jack or would otherwise want to play a different game, than let them. They also are free to change up the location of the match as well.

Dialogue: Ninomiya Satoshi
[Hahaha! Look, 20!]

[Fucking Black Jack? Geez, I just can't win against you, [1)Fate].]

(Satoshi hands over 1 Gold*) [Here, take my money]

(One Gold is too expensive for a bet between friends) [I gave you too much? Eh, whatever. Keep the change. Actually, in exchange, mind doing me a favor?]

[I told you before I think but I got a daughter named Chris living with my divorced wife.]

[She's interested in stargazing and astronomy. I guess you can say while the dad's looking into a microscope his daughter's looking in a telescope. She doesn't resemble me in the slightest, but I guess my old wife's probably happy about that.]

[Anyway, next month is Chris's birthday. I got a present for her* but, well, I'm this kind of guy as you can see. I might get drunk and forget about it. Or just skip town when I rack up too much of a gambling debt.]

[If that happens, would you go ahead and deliver the present in my place, [1)Fate]? I'm counting on you.]


 * One Gold is equal to 5 Credits. Since [1)Fate] isn't financially rewarded during this Scenario this is meant to act in place of that.


 * If the Player asks where to get the present Satoshi will say he's keeping it in his room and give them a spare key.

Depiction 2
A month has passed since that night, and now in the present [1)Fate] sits in that same bar, Ninomiya having gone missing several days ago. The bar's DAK plays the news.

[....In Kisara Tatara Town today, the SSS Police Force engaged in a gun battle with a group of terrorists. By deploying their SWAT team, they were successful in eliminating the threat.]

Along with the report images of the deceased scroll by, among them is Ninomiya's face.

Dialogue: Bartender
(Passes over a glass of Gin) [Ninomiya-san's favorite Gin. Here.]

[I can't believe it. That that person could be...]

Conclusion
It seems its time to make good on your promise from a month ago. First you should go to his house and collect the present.

The small cracking sound of the tranquil ice in the glass of gin echoes in your head.

Opening 2: Betrayal
Scene Player: [3)Inu]

Appearance Rating: Impossible

Explanation
A Scene where [3)Inu] and Bradley go to the location of the shootout between SSS and a terrorist group. Once Depiction 1 and Depiction 2 are acted out the Scene is concluded with Bradley stealing the virus weapon.


 * The scene of the crime is riddled with traces of gun and laser fire, and at this point the dead bodies have already been moved to the morgue.

Depiction 1
[3)Inu] and their partner Bradley make their way to the outskirts of Tatara Town, where a closed off section of a multi-tenant building awaits them. A large [KEEP OUT] hologram* is displayed, carefully restricting entry. This seems to be the place the shootout between the SSS and the terrorist cell took place.


 * If a Talkie or bystander wishes to enter without being noticed they'll need to illegally patch the hologram to ignore them.

Dialogue: SSS Officers
(Politely) [Thank you for your assistance.]

Dialogue: Bradley
[According to the report from SSS, the patrol contracted to this district* received an anonymous tip that one of the rooms in this building was being used for an illegal experiment. Upon investigating they were shot at by the room's occupants.]

[The SSS Special Forces were called to the scene and it became a shootout. Luckily there were no casualties on the SSS side. And all 6 people within the room were killed.]

[From there they determined these guys were terrorists, and now they've called us. Anti-Terrorist activities are our territory, after all.

Depiction 2
The inside of the room has been remodeled into some kind of hospital or Biology lab.

Dialogue: SSS Forensics Officer
[Look at all this equipment here. Rather than a hideout this seems more like a terrorist lab.]

[Anyway, this is what I want you to see.] (He points to a metal, cylindrical tube on a desk)

[It appears to be some kind of biological weapon...judging from the equipment it's possibly a virus.]

Dialogue: Bradley
(Picks up the tube) [I see.]

(He pulls out his gun and shoots the forensic officer*) [Sorry about that, but I'm taking this.]

[Sorry, [3)Inu], but if you leave that guy alone he'll die.]

(When asked why he's doing this) [You're a good cop, partner. And I just couldn't be the same. That's all]


 * If the forensic officer doesn't receive immediate attention he'll die from his injuries. So if the Cast Member pursues Bradley here they will be letting him die.

Conclusion
Bradley jumps out the window*. Below is a trash-filled alleyway, and he immediately disappears from sight.


 * This can't be stopped with a Check. If the Cast wishes to use a Miracle to stop him, than a Guest can cancel out this with their own Miracle. You can also simply ban the usage of Miracles during the Opening Phase.

Opening 3: Within the Darkness
Scene Player: [5)Katana]

Appearance Rating: Impossible

Explanation
Within the "Sea" of the Yarol Bar, [5)Katana] accepts a request from Doris.

Depiction
Deep in the back of the Yarol Bar, in its "Sea", "Godmother" Doris lightly shakes a a drink shaker. After she finishes mixing the drink, she presents a cocktail glass along with a holo video, illuminating the dark room in its dim light. Through the noise and static* of the video, you can make out a woman in a black dress.


 * Some kind of ECM device was likely used by the target to try and prevent photos of her being taken.

Dialogue: Doris
[An XYZ*]

[The target goes by the name Black Widow]

[...It's not exactly the most reliable offer. The client is anonymous*, and the target's handle name and this picture is all the information given. But the reward is high. The advance payment is Platinum.]

[You up for it?*]


 * XYZ is a cocktail drink consisting of rum, white curacao, and lemon juice. It is also Neuro Slang for 'Farewell' or 'The End'. In Yarol, XYZ also signifies an assassination contract.


 * Doris herself also doesn't know the client's identity. The client is the Japanese Army.


 * If the Player tries to refuse the request, tell them to look at their Act Handout again and reconsider.

Conclusion
[Then cheers to good business]

Doris slides over 1 Platinum and the holo video is turned off, plunging the Yarol "Sea" once again into darkness.

Opening 4: One More Hero
Scene Player: [4)Neuro]

Appearance Rating: Impossible

Explanation
This is a scene where [4)Neuro] accepts a request from Carlos. Once the request is accepted it moves to its conclusion.

Depiction
Carlos's meeting place of choice is a loud night club. Among the dazzling strobe lights is the silhouettes of a large group of scantily clad men and women dancing away to the loud beat. In a seat in the back is Carlos Mauricio de Silva with a tequila in hand. He waves you over.

Dialogue: Carlos
[Hello, my friend! Are you doing well?]

[I got just a tiny request for you. It should be a simple task for you, friend.]

[I want you to stop the Purification Faction's terrorist operation.]

[See? Simple work, right?]

[Yesterday, in Tatara Town, you saw the SSS had a shoot-out on the news, right?]

[Their opponents were Purification Faction terrorists. But they failed to take out the ringleader in all that. Black Widow wasn't there.]

[How do I know that? Well, just heard a few rumors...Anyway, Black Widow is most likely still here in N◎VA, and she hasn't given up on her plan.]

[How do I know that? A Martian's intuition, of course!]

[I want you to to find this Black Widow and stop her plans. I'll make sure there's a reward. Gold. Let's just say the Client* is some Exec who wishes for peace in N◎VA.]

[The police aren't gonna make a move right away. I understand that an Inu took off with a virus weapon from the terrorist's lab and bolted, after all. They're busy dealing with that mess...at least from the rumors I heard!]

[Unfortunately, I don't have a holo of Black Widow*. She's an incredibly wary woman, and doesn't leave behind visual data of herself.]

[Even so, if it's you..well, you're pretty persistent.]

[It's pretty fun to become the city's hero from time to time. I said it, so it must be true.]

[Well, I'm counting on you, friend!]


 * Carlos is referring to himself as the client. He has an incredibly strong hatred for the Purification Faction, and has strong ties to the Church of True Teachings and various companies who also wish to see them destroyed. The reward amount isn't quite something an individual can come up with easily.


 * The holo image [3)Katana] received from Doris was received from the Japanese Army's intelligence network.

Conclusion
Carlos smiles cheerfully and stirs his tequila. The scene ends.

Opening 5: A Talkie's Job
Scene Player: [3)Talkie]

Appearance Rating: Impossible*


 * In this Scene, [3)Inu] can be specially allowed to enter with a  Check with a TN of 10.

Explanation
[2)Talkie]'s Introduction. Depiction 1 they are covering the N◎VA Sky Tree. In Depiction 2 they run into Chris at their work. After listening to her request the Scene ends.

Depiction 1
'[2)Talkie] has come to the nearly completed N◎VA Sky Tree to cover it. Standing before the large crowd of press people, Administrator Inagaki speaks with a prideful and triumphant air. During this time, [2)Talkie] receives a call from Yuuki Aya.

Dialogue: Inagaki Kouhei
[With the completion of this Sky Tree, Asakusa tourist revenue will increase by 120% according to the Inagaki Institute's calculations.]

[This too is all a result of my amazing planning. Gehahaha! This city can still grow!]

Dialogue: Surrounding Talkies
[He sure is hyping himself hard, huh?]

[I wonder just how much he lined his own pockets with all this]

Dialogue: Yuuki Aya
[...[2)Talkie], it seems there's some kind of commotion at the sight of yesterday's shoot-out in Tatara. Go check it out.]

[For the time being, I want you to focus on that story. I'm depositing some money to cover the investigation costs.] (received 2 Silver*)


 * This amounts to 2 Credits. If the Cast wishes for more funding, they may make a  or  Check against Yuuki Aya's Control Rating. On a success they gain 3 credits.

Depiction 2
In the outskirts of Tatara Town lies a suspicious multi-tenants building, walled off with a [KEEP OUT] Hologram and patrolled by a group of Blackhound officers*.

The officers are turning away rubberneckers and Talkies. In the middle of being turned away themselves, [2)Talkie] noticed a young girl.


 * As Yuuki Aya said, the officers seem oddly agitated. Something definitely happened. You won't get anything just asking the cops, but if you use a skill like  you can learn that [A Blackhound Officer has stolen a virus weapon and ran].

Dialogue: Ninomiya Chris
[Daddy wasn't a terrorist though...]

[Are you a reporter? I'm Ninomiya Satoshi's daughter Chris. My daddy definitely wasn't a terrorist! Please, prove to everyone my dad is innocent!]

Conclusion
After saying that, Chris bows her head and runs away.

Conditions for Reaching Climax Phase
Once the Cast has discovered Black Widow's objective and researched the circumstances of the incident, the event [Sky Tree Completion] will trigger. If the Cast makes their way to the Sky Tree the Climax begins.

Events
Each Event has a specific condition needed to activate, listed in its entry. It is suggested that a Room With No Owner and then Dog Race should be executed first, but after that the others may be done in whatever order they come up.

Event 1: A Room With No Owner
Condition: [1)Fate] goes to Ninomiya's home

Scene Player: [1)Fate]

Appearance Rating:  10

Explanation
This scene occurs when [1)Fate] goes to visit Ninomiya Satoshi's room. It's probably best to do it at the beginning of the Research Phase. The room is disarrayed mess. With a  or  Check of 12 the Cast can discover traces that Ninomiya had been forcefully taken from the room.

If they declare that they are looking for the present*, they can immediately find Chris's present. Afterwards, the Scene moves to Depiction 2.

The Scene ends when [1)Fate] acquires the telescope.


 * If the Player forgets to look for the present the RL should remind them.

Depiction 1
Ninomiya Satoshi's home is a room in a normal Yellow Area apartment building. If there was anything strange to take note of it would be that the electric lock isn't locked and that the inside of the room seems to have been completely turned over.

Depiction 2
You find a telescope that seemed to have been wrapped in a cute wrapping paper. You say seemed to because said wrapping paper has been torn up and the telescope left lying on a pile of clothes and documents.

Conclusion
Someone trashed Ninomiya's room...and then he was found dead amongst a group of terrorists. It seems there's more behind this incident then there seems.

Event 2: Dog Race
Condition: When [3)Inu] is the Scene Player

Scene Player: [3)Inu]

Appearance Rating:  10

Explanation
[3)Inu] receives a call from Rei, the Chief of the Mobile Investigations Unit. She informs them of how the Blackhounds will be responding to Bradley, and inform [3)Inu] of how they should be acting going forward. After she explains the situation and suggests they do a solo investigation, she will hand over 3 Credits to pay for expenses. Afterwards, the Player can continue Info Gathering as normal.

Depiction
You receive a call from Chief Rei.

Dialogue: Rei
[Hey, [3)Inu]. About Bradley, the higher ups* have decided to treat him like he was a terrorist all along.]

[Orders are to shoot on sight. We're all also under a gag order*. Once Bradley's dead we're supposed to cover up his involvement and weave a tale about how a surviving terrorist from the gunfight took off with the virus weapon.]

[Can you agree with that? I certainly can't. As Bradley's partner I'm sure you feel the same. I want you to go after him in your own way. Figure out what the hell he's thinking and knock some sense into him if you have to. I'll handle the higher ups.]

[Oh, and [3)Inu]. I'll deposit 3 Silver into your account to pay for the investigation.]


 * In other words, Blackhound's Chief Midou Akane, the true leader Inagaki Kouhei, and various politicians with their own clout.


 * Carlos managed to learn about Bradley through his own personal network and informed [4)Neuro], but there's no telling specifically how he got this information.

Conclusion
And thus the hound begins the hunt. The Cast Member receives 3 Silver and the scene ends.

Event 3: Sky Tree: Coming Soon
Condition: See Below

Scene Player: [2)Talkie]

Appearance Rating:  10

Explanation
The purpose of this Scene is to foreshadow the stage for the Climax Phase. You can activate this Scene when [2)Talkie] is the Scene Player, or when 3-4 Research Phase Scenes have occurred.

Depiction
[Gehahahaha!]

Administrator Inagaki Kouhei's laugh echoes loudly through the streets, his smug face proudly displayed on a large holo monitor, apparently in the middle of a press interview.

Dialogue: Inagaki Kouhei
[When this Sky Tree lights up Asakusa will sparkle even brighter than a mega corp Arcology!]

[We even have a surprise event prepared for its grand opening! Gehaha!]

Conclusion
Inagaki's laugh cuts off abruptly and like it hadn't happened at all the holo monitor proceeds to its next news reel.

Event 4: Traces
Condition: After obtaining the Info Piece [Wandering Spider] and heading toward the lab.

Scene Player: Refer

Appearance Rating: <Society: N◎VA, Street> 10

Explanation
This scene involves recovering and analyzing traces of data from a TRON at the terrorist lab in Kisara Tatara Town.

As the lab has been sealed off by Blackhound it will require for [3)Inu] to be present or for you to succeed on a <Society: Police> or <Negotiation> Check with a Target Number of 10 to enter.

To access the TRON's information you will need to use the Miracle <Deus Ex Machina>*.


 * If there is no Neuro player in the party than the telescope that [1)Fate] retrieved for Chris will emit a light on entering the lab and unlock the TRON as per Ninomiya's preparations.

Depiction 1
Despite being heavily damaged in the gunfight, deep in the TRON's memory is still some salvageable data. With this and the intel you've already collected things should become clearer.

What was made here in this lab was a new, evolved form of the Wandering Spider. In other words, current medicine and vaccines will have no effect on it.

Depiction 2
You were able to restore a few video files that seem relevant to the case. The video is fragmented, but you can make out the following:

1) Ninomiya is seen conversing with Black Widow. [There will be a lot of victims. Of course there will. But, if you can save that daughter of yours with the cure, you can be her hero. Correct?]

2) A conversation between Bradley and Black Widow [We're only going to be targeting the Slums and the unranked citizens, including the scum that killed your parents. None of your precious 'civilians' have to die. Alright?]

Both Ninomiya and Bradley appear to have been drugged in some way, a glazed look in their eyes.

3) A message from Ninomiya [There's no cure for this strain of Wandering Spider. I won't hand it over these people. In the first place, I don't even know why I lent an ear to this plan at all. It's always felt weird. It's always been wrong. I'm going to report what I can to the police. They'll likely kill me for this. Chris...]

Conclusion
The video closes on Ninomiya's anguished face. That is all the information you can obtain.

Event 5: Sky Tree Completion Event
Condition: Directly after [Event 4: Traces]

Scene Player: [2)Talkie]

Appearance Rating: <Society: N◎VA> 10

Explanation
This Scene presents the stage of the Climax to the players. After acting out the contents of the Depiction section and heading towards the Sky Tree the story draws to its conclusion.

Depiction
[Gehahahaha!]

Once again the city's holo monitors display Administrator Kouhei's smug, laughing face throughout the streets.

Dialogue: Inagaki Kouhei
[Tonight is finally the night that N◎VA Sky Tree opens to the public! The dream project all of N◎VA has been waiting for is complete!]

[In celebration of this event, our 360 degree observation floor, the Hanging Garden, will be open to select citizens chosen by raffle! Normally, this would cost an exorbitant...I mean appropriate...fee to enter so be grateful!]

[And the winner of this raffle are the students of the Ikaruga 2nd Elementary School*. It's amazing how such a coincidental raffle result led to such good press! Good for you, you little brats! Gehahaha!]


 * This is Ninomiya Chris's school, and she can be seen among the students in the broadcast.

Ikaruga 2nd Elementary Students
[Thank you, Administrator!]

Conclusion
Inagaki's obvious ploys aside, it looks like this would be a fun event for the kids.

However, an event with such sloppy planning and security, plus an incredibly high vantage point. There's no better place to spread a virus from.

You best hurry.

About Info Gathering
During Scenes that are not triggered events in the Research Phase the Scene Player(typically the Cast Member with the least amount of screen-time so far) will usually perform Info-Gathering Checks and then exchange information with the other Cast Members.

Info Pieces
The following Info Pieces are available at the beginning of the Research Phase:

Everyone: [SSS vs. Terrorist Shootout]

[1)Fate]: [Ninomiya Satoshi]

[2)Talkie]: [Ninomiya Satoshi], [Ninomiya Chris]

[3)Inu]: [Blues Bradley], [Anonymous Tip], [Terrorist Lab]

[4)Neuro]: [Black Widow], [The Purification Faction's Scheme]

[5)Katana]: [Black Widow]

At the beginning of the Scene the RL should ask the Scene Player what kind of Info Piece they wish to research and make the appropriate checks. If necessary, explain to them which Info Pieces are available to them.


 * Due to Ninomiya's drinking habits, he was often absent from work without permission. While his colleagues and employers found his absence annoying, they hadn't found it suspicious.


 * It's because of this that [2)Talkie] was able to meet and speak with her. After that, she returned to her regular life.


 * It's possible that the Cast, particularly [1)Fate], will wish to meet with Chris and go to her home. If they do so then Chris's mother Helen will inform them that Chris went out to see the Sky Tree.


 * Despite its name, the virus does not have any relation to actual spider venom.


 * Since [5)Katana] has already been paid for the job this won't affect their reward.

Explanation
This Climax Scene is the Cast's confrontation with Black Widow*. As the Cast makes their way to the N◎VA Sky Tree and begin to climb it, they notice something large and camouflaged making its way up the tower.


 * It should be noted that even if the N◎VA Military or the Blackhounds are making their way to the Sky Tree along with the Cast, they won't make it in time and won't be any use in the upcoming fight. The N◎VA Military had already once withdrew from the situation, and the Blackhounds were under the assumption the weapon was going to be used in the slums, and were stationed far away from the tower. As such, it's up to the Cast to resolve this matter.

Depiction
The middle of the night. At N◎VA Asakusa. Before the Sky Tree.

Unfortunately, even with the night sky growing cloudy the press and rubberneckers haven't vacated the perimeter of the Sky Tree. It seems that the students of Ikaruga 2nd and their guidance droid have already ascended to the top floor observation floor, the Hanging Garden.

The Cast slips past security and makes their way onto the elevator, heading for the top floor.

Conclusion
As the cast rides the elevator at top speed, the all-glass exterior allows for a magnificent view of the night skyline of N◎VA. Looking at the outer wall of the Sky Tree, a strange shape, like a mass of shimmering hot air, is ascending the tower at high speeds. That's thermal optic camouflage!

Explanation 1
Just as Black Widow's group arrives at the Hanging Garden and prepares to take it over, the Cast also arrives. If the Cast has 4 or more players, then Bradley will use <Coup De Grace> on the Cast*.


 * If the Cast is only at 3 members, he doesn't use it(though if your Cast has a large number of Defensive Miracles between them you may as well use it anyway). The target of his <Coup De Grace> should be [3)Inu].

Depiction 1
The Hanging Garden walls, floors, and ceiling have all been made with a special transparent material, giving visitors to the floor the impression they're floating in the sky.

Watching over the excited children exploring the floor are a group of teachers, a droid guide, and a small press team*.

Suddenly, the glass walls shatter, sending the frightened children screaming.

With its thermal optics now disabled, a multi-legged vehicle crashes into Hanging Garden along with a squadron of combatants that propel in on wires. Emerging from the Eclipse is a woman in a black dress, Black Widow. In her hands is cylinder case containing the Wandering Spider. Within the Eclipse sits its driver Redback and Bradley.

And finally, the elevator arrives at the top floor.


 * This isn't pertinent information, but the press team belongs to a foreign media company named Lumes Network. Likely they payed Inagaki a hefty sum to be here.

Dialogue: Black Widow
[Oh my, it seems some uninvited guests have arrived.]

[Just what kind of group are you supposed to be?]

[I'll give you credit for making it this far, but there's no stopping my plans now.]

[Now then, Bradley, I'll leave their disposal to you.]

Dialogue: Bradley
[[3)Inu]...why did you come here?]

[It's already too late for me to turn back now.] (Activates <Coup De Grace>)

Dialogue: Chris
(To the other students) [Everyone, please calm down!]

(To [2)Talkie]) [You came!?]

Explanation 2
The battle against Black Widow. Cut Progression begins. The enemies are Black Widow, Redback, Blues Bradley, and five 20 man Katana Troops. If there are only 4 Cast Members then only 3 Troops show up. If the Cast is only 3 member then only 1 Troop shows up.

There are two other events that need to be resolved during Cut Progression as well:

1. Evacuating the Children

If the children are not evacuated then Chris and her fellow students will be caught up in the fight. Since they are all Extras, all the enemy would need to do is target them with one [Target: Area] attack that does at least one damage to kill them all. They won't even be able to make a Reaction against it.

To avoid this fate, the Cast needs to take some sort of measure* to evacuate the children and other civilians.


 * Essentially they use a Miracle. For the purpose of this Scenario <Punish> can be used to evacuate the Extras from the Scene. Other options would be to make a shield with <Dues Ex Machina>, hide them with <Unseen>, or some other creative use. If the Cast wishes to not use a Miracle then the RL can say a successful check with a skill like <Cybertech>, <Negotiation>, or some such would also work. In this case, the TN would be 21 to pass.

2. Handling Bradley

If you tell Bradley that the terrorist attack will be targeting not just the slums but N◎VA in its entirety you can get him to retreat from the battle.

However, Black Widow has used a combination of drugs and hypnosis to brainwash Bradley(mechanically, she has used <Please!> to make him her ally). Normal methods of persuasion and negotiation will not work. You will need to use a Miracle. The Scenario expects <Truth> to be used on Black Widow for this purpose but other Miracles can work as well.

If he is persuaded to stand down, Bradley will not be able to participate in combat, the remnants of his brainwashing leaving him unable to act.

Once the battle is finished proceed to the Scene Conclusion.

Depiction 2
Machine guns protrude from the Half Eclipse and it reactivates its thermal optic camouflage. The children's screams echo reverberate through the Hanging Garden.

Dialogue: Black Widow
[...Quite the strange group you are. Fine. After I've disposed of you lot I can purify this tainted city with my poison.]

(If Ninomiya is mentioned) [Oh? Ninomiya Satoshi-san, hmm? He was quite the capable scientist. I tried poisoning him with the idea of putting on an act to become a hero to his own daughter but he was surprisingly resilient, even with all those drugs in his system.]

[Thanks to him, Wandering Spider has evolved. It'll easily kill the citizens of this city.]

(Used <Truth> on her) [Why yes, of course I'm not stopping with just the slums. I'll be purifying everyone. I need to completely tear the corruption out from the roots, after all. Not that telling you this matters, that man is already completely under my control.]

(Bradley regains his senses) [Unbelievable...I wasn't aware something as simple as friendship could serve as an antidote...]

[Whatever, once I kill you lot my plan will be back on track!] (Battle Begins)

Dialogue: Bradley
[No matter how many years pass I still see the same dream every night. A dream of the day my mom and dad were killed...I can't take it anymore. I can't stand this city any longer.]

(Used <Truth> on Black Widow) [...No. That can't be...that has to be a lie. [3)Inu]...I...]

[[3)Inu], If it's you, I know you can stop this...I don't have any right to be asking you this, but please!] (Uses <Fight!> on [3)Inu]*)


 * The RL is free to choose the Miracle that is refreshed, but they can also leave it up to the Player if they wish.

Dialogue: Redback
[...All members, prepare for battle.]

[This is perfect. It'd be too boring if it just ended so smoothly.}

(When defeated) [Kuu...unbelievable]

Dialogue: Chris
(When Ninomiya is talked about) [Daddy...how terrible]

[Please...avenge my dad]

(When retreating) [Thank you! Everyone, this way!]

Conclusion
Black Widow falters, and the metal cylinder containing her virus falls from her hands.

[My plan, my poison is...]

Murmuring those final words, Black Widow collapses.

Guest Data
Skills with a ★ are General Skills that have been leveled up. All other General Skills are at their default Skill Level. Bolded Miracles have(presumably) already been used before final Cut Progression.

Combat Plan
On Black Widow's first turn she will activate Deep Sleet with a Minor Action and not move. For her Major Action she will perform a Mental Attack Combo of <Psychology>, <Negotiation>, <Gestalt Destruction>, and <Speech>. This attack has Close~Long Range, a +6 to its Result, and 3+DoS damage. On her next turn, she will also Combo <Witch's Curse>, inflicting [BS: Pressure].

Redback will also not move on her first turn and activate S-Driver with a Minor Action. With her Major Action she will make a Physical Attack Combo of <Ranged> and <Gap in the Armor> using either her CG21 or Kenu depending on the range of her Target. With CG21 the attack is [X+11], and with Kenu it is [X+8]. She will use <Covering> to take any damage directed at Black Widow, and reduce it with <Vehicular Acrobatics>.

Bradley will make Physical Attack Combos with <Ranged> and <Killer Shot>. This does [P+5]+DoS damage.

Ending Phase
These Ending Scenes are merely examples. If your Cast Members have their own ideas for a more fitting Scene then by all means use those instead.

Ending 1: Starry Sky
Scene Player: [1)Fate]

Explanation
This Scene occurs directly after the climax battle. All Cast Members participate. Once the conversation with Chris is complete the Scene ends.

Depiction
The battle is over, and the danger has passed. They're a bit late, but it seems the security detail and police have noticed the ruckus and are making their way up to your location. With this, the case seems to be closed.

The children begin to slowly, cautiously peek out from their hiding places and Chris makes her way over to your group.

Dialogue: Chris
[Is it over...?]

(To [2)Talkie]) [My daddy wasn't a terrorist, right?]

(To [1)Fate]) [A friend of dad's? I think he did say he had a strange friend before. A detective who was too nice for their own good...ah, sorry! That's just what my dad said.]

(Chris receives her father's present) [...Th-thank you...so much...Daddy.]

Conclusion
That night, N◎VA's sky had a rare and surprising amount of stars shining in the sky*. Written on the card of Ninomiya's present to his daughter was this message: [Behold, the Starry Night Sky]


 * In order to show off the Sky Tree's debut light up Inagaki had the surrounding areas cut their lights. Then, with the Sky Tree's light up being cancelled from the attack, there was a lot more stars visible in N◎VA that night from the lack of light pollution.

Ending 2: Judgement
Scene Player: [3)Inu]

Explanation
[3)Inu]'s Ending. If still alive Bradley will use [Punish] on himself. The result is up to [3)Inu] to decide*.


 * Essentially, if [3)Inu] doesn't contest with their own [Punish] and set a result Bradley will inflict himself with [Erasure].

Depiction
While late to the arrival, the police begin helping restrain the surviving terrorist members. Among them is Blues Bradley.

Dialogue: Bradley
[I'm sorry. I let my own personal nightmares hurt everyone around me.]

[You're a good cop, [3)Inu]. I'll leave this city to you.]

Conclusion
The Dog of the Hazard City returns to the streets filled with crime and gun-smoke, resuming their daily life.

Ending 3: Scars
Scene Player: [4)Neuro]

Explanation
[4)Neuro]'s ending. The Cast Member and Carlos share a drink in a quiet bar.

Depiction
In a complete change of pace, the bar you meet Carlos at this time is peacefully quiet. The man in question hands you a drink.

Dialogue: Carlos
[Good work! Seems like it was a pretty tough job.]

[So, how does it feel getting to play the hero, huh?]

[...Ah, is that so? Good to hear.]

[You did great, man. Good enough that I'll tell all my celebrity Martian friends all about you!]

[So how about next time we meet up in a more lively place than this, eh?]

Conclusion
With that final joking retort Carlos raises his glass in a toast.

Ending 4: Dark Side
Scene Player: [5)Katana]

Explanation
[5)Katana]'s ending. As they relax at the Yarol they are approached by Mimasaka Hisataka.

Depiction
At the Yarol Bar you sit back at the counter to have a drink to celebrate another mission complete, when suddenly a rather nondescript man takes his seat next to you.

Dialogue: Mimasaka
[You certainly did a good job today.]

[You certainly had the rest of that group fooled. It must've been a real pain to go along with their heroic charade.]

[But thanks to you the threat has been eliminated. So I have a proposition, how about becoming one of our pawns...excuse me, one of our collaborators from now on?]

(Upon refusal) [...Well, I certainly won't be forgetting this incident, at least.]

Conclusion
As the man takes his leave Doris slides another drink your way. XYZ, a drink meant to signify endings.

Ending 5: Start the Party
Scene Player: [2)Talkie]

Explanation
[2)Talkie]'s ending. A discussion with Yuuki Aya. First, if they haven't done it already, play out [2)Talkie]'s use of <Exposure>. After you may begin the conversation with Yuuki Aya.

Depiction
[Good Work. You bagged a huge story for yourself.]

[We came under a lot of pressure from the Administrator for it, but we managed to side-step it. If this wasn't Channel 99 I doubt your report would've been published at all.]

[Poor Mita-san's* stomach has probably gotten worse from all of this though...Fufu]

[So tell me all about how your investigation went, hmm?]


 * Mita Shigeru is the the president of Marionet. Since his days as a chief editor he's had constant stomach problems from stress. After all the complaints filed by the N◎VA Administration following the report on the Sky Tree terrorist attack it's not hard to imagine that worsening his stomach problems.

Conclusion
[Until next time.]

Yuuki Aya smiles like a young girl and takes her leave.

Ending 6: Long Goodbye
Scene Player: [1)Fate]

Explanation
[1)Fate]'s ending. A flashback to several months ago.

Depiction
A night in the past in Asakusa, at a bar on Ammonia Avenue. It's an old-fashioned place without the largest selection, but because of that it doesn't get any noisy customers.

Across from you sits Ninomiya Satoshi, sharing a drink with you.

Dialogue: Ninomiya Satoshi
[Hey, have I ever mentioned I had a daughter before? Right now she's living with my ex-wife though.]

[She loves to stargaze. It's her hobby.]

Conclusion
Satoshi chuckles bashfully and downs the rest of his drink. As he holds the glass in his mouth he mutters something to himself, as if to say a prayer for his daughter's happiness.

[...Behold, the Starry Night Sky]

About This Scenario
The subject of this scenario is a terrorist attack on Tokyo N◎VA. It features a newly made symbol of the city, the N◎VA Sky Tree, as a symbolic landmark.

Old and New Fans
Both fans from older editions and people completely new to N◎VA participated in our playtest.

Characters that longtime fans of the series are familiar with such as Inagaki Kouhei and Carlos made an appearance, and they got a good feel for what had changed with them as time passed. For the new players, the RL showed them their Guest Profile and explained the basics to them, which helped to move the session along.

[5)Katana]
[5)Katana] is a hired assassin working alone, and is rather isolated from the rest of the Cast. When the RL was presenting the Act Handouts, they explained this to the Players, and left this Cast Member to a Player more experienced with TRPGS.

Usually the [5)Katana] Player would make an Appearance Check into Scenes with other Cast Members as a way to gather intel, and then would join the group using their <Contact> Skill with [1)Fate] as pretense.

There was an occasion where a completely new Player played the [5)Katana] and the RL helped them along by suggesting they appear in a Scene when the other Cast Members mentioned Black Widow. This allowed them to coolly approach the Cast and ask for them to elaborate on what they know.

Chris' Present
The Heroine of this Scenario, Chris, has a particularly strong connection to both [1)Fate] and [2)Talkie].

There was a case where [1)Fate] would want to immediately deliver the present to Chris upon receiving it from Ninomiya's room. Once they learned about Chris' mother through Research they went to visit her house to see Chris. The RL followed the advise of the Module and had the mother inform them Chris was at the Sky Tree with her class and the [1)Fate] Player returned to Info Gathering.

The Scenario is designed to progress without meeting Chris during the Research Phase. If Players are worried about not meeting her, inform them of this.

The [1)Fate] Player was, of course, able to safely deliver the present to Chris at the end.

Climax
Before Cut Progression Bradley uses <Coup De Grace> on the Cast. In our playtest, [3)Inu] was the target of this and it managed to catch their Player quite off guard.

We tested Sample Characters and the fight managed to deplete everyone of their combat-oriented Miracles. It was a good fight.

We also tried a fight with only 3 Cast Members and the opening <Coup De Grace> really lead to a tough fight. Though they still managed to pull through.