Advertising Supplement/Restaurants/Hoffman's Delicatessen

Hoffman's Delicatessen

While Mort Central and Uptown boast an almost countless selection of dining choices, Suburbia is home to one of the successful independent eateries on Mort: Hoffman's Delicatessen. The décor is strictly utilitarian with plastic tables and chairs and white tiles floors and walls. Pictures and news clippings of celebrities and Operatives are scattered on the walls. Hoffman's, however, does not lack atmosphere. Abe Hoffman and his staff fill the shop with lively chatter about sports, politics and life on Mort in general. Like The Pit, Hoffman's maintains a strict “no weapons or heavy armor” policy. Facilities are not even provided for their temporary storage.

“Why do I do it? I run a deli, not a farkakt shooting gallery! Leave that drek in your car or at home. And these armor suits, OY! You'd think they were going to Cannibal Sector One and not for a nosh. You don't need five hundred pounds of ceramic to eat my Reuben. The worst that could happen to you here is a bit of gas. And that's just because the sauerkraut is so fresh! We use only fresh ingredients here.”

• Abe Hoffman, age 67

Hoffman's claims of freshness appear to be accurate. The constant lines at the counter indicate his food is as good as he claims. His suppliers are a closely guarded secret. The Shivers and Operatives refuse to look into it for fear they might find some illegal activity that will shut down the deli.

“Who knows where he gets his stuff from? It could be Randolph Logistics. Hell, it could be Thresher making nightly deliveries via powersuit drop. I don't know and don't intend to find out. I'm not doing anything to risk my daily knish.”

• Shiver Sergeant (name withheld by request)

In the end, Hoffman keeps his nose clean and his food fresh and delicious. Hoffman's serves traditional deli fare. Comfort foods are the order of the day with a fine selection of meats and cheeses, bagels and bialies, and assorted breads, soups and sandwiches. For over forty years Hoffman has faithfully served the people of Mort, gladly joining the Racial Equality Program.

“And why not? Stormers and Shaktars? Absolutely. It warms the heart to watch the big boys eat. Such appetites! And so polite. Wraiths? A dream customer. Rare brisket, what could be easier? The Frothers can be a bit meshuge, but what can you do? You don't complain about people who buy macaroons by the gross. Ebons? A bit tightly wound but such sheyn ponems! Brain Wasters? They can be schmucks sometimes but can't we all? They behave if they want to eat. I bet even Carrien would play nice here. You can't be mad at anyone when you have a bagel and schmear with a nice piece of lox.”

• Abe Hoffman, age 67

Hoffman's Deli is located in Suburbia; Maxwell Sector; Laughann's Walk 4213. Open 5am-Midnight daily.

Advertising Supplement/Fine Fashion/Designers/Catherine Deneuve

Catherine Deneuve

With its unceasing rain, umbrellas are always a consideration among the people of Mort. While cheap, utilitarian umbrellas can be had from almost any shop in the city, those looking to stand out will travel to Mort Central to shop at Catherine Deneuve's

Catherine Deneuve was born on New Paris, the only child of Lorraine and Charles Deneuve. Her parents are the owners of LCD Textiles, an extremely lucrative company dealing in exotic fabrics. Catherine grew up in wealth and style, always exposed to the family business that, it was assumed, she would eventually take over. However, a business trip to Mort with her parents changed everything.

“I remember walking out of the spaceport and into the rain of the city. It made me so sad. People either hid beneath drab black umbrellas or simply hunched over and walked through the rain unprotected. I thought what a shame it was that no thought had gone into the aesthetics of an accessory that most people on this world, by necessity, must own.”

- Catherine Deneuve, at age 15, on her first trip to Mort

Thus began Catherine Deneuve's fascination with umbrellas. With her parents blessings, she enrolled at the Baroque School of Aesthetics at New Paris majoring in Aesthetics and Design. Three years later she returned to Mort to study Business at Meny. At the age of twenty, she graduated with honors and threw herself into the fashion world of Mort.

Working from her small Uptown flat, Deneuve began sketching ideas for umbrellas. She would not be content with the ubiquitous round, black nylon design. No shape, material or concept would be off-limits. It was one of her first designs that gave Deneuve her big break. The “Porcine” design would have a canopy of cured sewer pig skin. The shaft and handle would be carved from a single piece of tusk. The hardware would be brushed aluminum. She had cajoled her parents into letting her show her designs to one of their regular clients. On seeing the “Porcine” design, Siobhan Lambert was sold.

“ The 'Porcine' design? Sheer genius. To combine two of the most detestable, yet iconic facets of life on Mort [rain and sewer pigs] and synergize them? To call 'Porcine' an umbrella is a gross injustice. It is a testimony to the indomitable nature of humanity to reign in and master primal forces. It is a celebration of Progress. I offered her a contract and an order of 15,000 units on the spot.”

- Siobhan Lambert 900SD

With that order, Deneuve's future was secured. The “Porcine” design would feature largely in Lambert's Fall 901 line and still sells well to this day. In fact, the design did so well that Deneuve would eventually work with Department of Streets and Sanitation and finance a series of Blue BPNs to procure a steady supply of pigs for raw materials.

Today, Deneuve has flagship boutiques in Mort Central and on New Paris. Her lines are carried in most upscale retailers across the World of Progress. Deneuve has also started working with Karma on a line of biogenetic umbrellas. Look for umbrellas that repair themselves, emit custom fragrances and emit bio-luminescence in upcoming lines.

Intelligence Report/Citizens of Interest/Madame Valeria's House of Wonders

Madame Valeria's House of Wonder

In a reasonably quiet corner of Morley Sector, on Crandon's Walk in Level 8 of Lower Downtown sits the tiny storefront of Madame Valeria. People expecting to see a wizened old woman running the store are sorely mistaken. Madame Valeria is twelve years old. Her store is full of interesting and potentially illegal items. Doc Jug trades with her for some of her more unusual pieces. The services she provides are myriad. Curios, charms and talismans are available. Potions can be brewed. Information can be located, be it in the past, present, or future. Even hexes, curses and assorted whammies are available for the right price.

Valeria works for cash or trade, but don't consider cheating this little girl. The Johannas hold her in the highest regard and revere her as a wise-woman and healer; she enjoys their unquestioning protection. Most people treat her with respect and fear. If the protection of the Johannas is not enough deterrent from harming her, the sawed-off Bully Boy she keeps under her desk works just as well. What really keeps everyone in line is the fact that her concoctions, talismans and spells all seem to work. They work so well that some have suggested that she is able to tap the Ebb.

Nobody seems to know the history of this enigmatic girl or her shop.. She speaks little, and of herself, nothing. In Downtown, some stories claim that Valeria does not age; she has been twelve for as long as anyone can remember. As far as anyone can tell, she is as ageless as Mr. Slayer and possibly as mysterious. Ebons who have attempted to read her are unable to get concrete information and are always shaken by the attempt.

“When I attempted to touch her mind it was like stepping into the cosmos. There was at once a sense of terrible limitless emptiness. Then you felt the power lying underneath. The power to either bend this universe to her will or simply rend it asunder. I truly fear this child more than Mr. Slayer or any of the nightmares of his World of Progress.”

-Othin, Ebon SCL 6B.4 (Not for reprint)

While there is concern over the power she allegedly wields and the dubious legality of the items in her shop, SLA Industries officially treats her as a persona non grata. Her shop brings genuine comfort to the people of Downtown. She never engages in any business that is needlessly detrimental to the citizens. When her services are requested for anything of a dubious nature, she makes it perfectly clear that fate does not smile upon people who would use her powers for ill purpose.

“I can do what you ask. I can bring your desires to light. Be warned though, my child. If you would bend my will to bring woe to those who do not deserve it, I will know. I will return that ire unto you amplified a thousandfold. Misuse my gifts and I will destroy you. This is as sure as the rain.”

-Madame Valeria

In the end, the Shivers either avoid her entirely or are regular clients, Monarch knows better than to be anything but reverent and the Dark Finders are unable to find out the slightest bit of useful information about her. SLA simply just ignores her at this point. After all, what harm can one little girl do?

Advertising Supplement/Weaponry/Firearms/Stearman Ballistic Labs

Type: Precision firearms manufacturer

Location: Mort Central

Description: Stearman Ballistic Labs (SBL) is a new firearms design company with an emphasis on high-end precision weaponry. SBL was created by Colin Stearman, a five year veteran of Dante serving as a scout/sniper. During his time on Dante, Stearman logged 614 kills. His time in the field taught him that a gun should be more than a device to put lead on target, it should be a natural extension of the shooter. He created SBL to fill a notable gap in the selections available to sharpshooters. SBL understands the pain of the Bullet Tax and strives to deliver weapons accurate and deadly enough to preclude the need for multiple shots. SBL is so confident in the performance of its weapons, no SBL product is offered with a burst or full-automatic capability.

SBL has become increasingly popular with the Wraith Raider community. Wraiths feel that SBL understands the understated elegance and efficiency of single-shot weapons. SBL has responded by hiring prominent Wraith Operatives and Contract Killers as consultants on weapon design and refinement. Among the scout/sniper elite, an SBL sponsorship is highly prestigious.

Even at the “low end” of the price range, SBL weapons are extremely pricey and at the “high end” can be prohibitively expensive. Much like the famed BLA Blitzer, all SBL weapons are hand made with an exacting eye to detail and quality. Stock weapons are available as well as dozens of customization options at the point of sale. For those with the reputation and disposable income, SBL accepts special orders for one-off personal weapons. Whatever the customer wants, the customer gets. From utilitarian polymers to exotic works of art with natural hardwoods and precious metals, SBL will build it perfectly. Rumor has it that Top Notch is working with SBL on a rifle for her inevitable grudge match with Delia the Destroyer. An exact price hasn't been announced but is estimated in the 100,000-250,000c range

.

Entertainment/Sports/Contract Circuit/Profiles/The Enforcer

Name: Rob Trebow
Alias: The Enforcer
Location: Downtown Circuit, limited Uptown events
Specialty: Melee
Signature Move: "The One Timer"
Height: 1.85m
Weight: 112kg
Record: 48-5-1
Rep:5

Profile: Before joining the Contract Circuit, Rob Trebow played defense for the Maxwell Sector Ice Clowns professional hockey team. In Trebow's first three seasons he amassed nine goals, twenty-one assists and 9,118 penalty minutes. His temper on the ice was the stuff of legend.

During a playoff game against the Lowell Sector Sewer Rats one of Rats winger Mike Dougall laid a cheap cross-check on the Ice Clowns' center, sending him sprawling. As the Ice Clowns' enforcer, Trebow threw down the gloves against the Dougall. By the time the officials were able to pull Trebow off, Dougall was dead. In a panic, Trebow fled the arena, ultimately taking refuge in the Tynes Complex under the protection of their Amnesty.

There he would stay, fighting under the moniker of “The Enforcer.” Specializing in hand-to-hand and his reinforced hockey stick, The Enforcer pummels opponents, looking to finish them off with "The One Timer." This signature move is a fan favorite. Trebow will stun an opponent with the butt of his stick, then whirl it around like a flick-scythe, smashing the opponent in the temple, usually for a quick knock-out. He does a variation when unarmed which starts with a jab and leads into a vicious whirling back-fist. The Enforcer is a ruthlessly fearsome fighter. However, he still feels a great deal of remorse for killing Dougall and prefers to only fight to submission or knockout.

Trebow was eventually cleared of a murder charge in the fight with Dougall, but is reluctant to return to the MHL. The Contract Circuit pays better and there's no penalty for fighting.

Advertising Supplement/Sports/Mort Hockey League

Mort Hockey League

Type: Professional Hockey Organization

Location: Stadiums in Central, Uptown, Upper and Lower Downtown

Description: The Mort Hockey League (MHL) maintains four divisions of three teams each. The Divisions break down as follows:

Mort Central Division

Camden Sector Sanguines

Pegram Sector Rainfall

Carver Sector Fusion

Uptown Division

Runyon Sector Legionnaires

Striplin Sector Ennui

Rascette Sector Infernos

Suburbia Division

Maxwell Sector Ice Clowns

Freedman Sector Reapers

Macklin Sector Highlanders

Downtown Division

Lowell Sector Sewer Rats

Lower Hambelton Pest Control

Upper Hambelton Smoking Octopi

Each team has its own arena which is used for other events (concerts, conventions, other sports and Contract Circuit events) when the team is at an away game and during the off-season. It comes as a surprise to many people that the Downtown arenas are kept in very good repair and have their own Shiver Station attached.

Shivers have a special connection to the MHL, as the Lower Hambelton Pest Control began its life as an all Shiver hockey club. It is a matter of pride that the Shivers have had at least one of their ranks playing for each team in the MHL since the inception of the league. Each Shiver department in a league sector works hard to get a player on the local team. Shivers who go pro are excused from active duty during their time in the league, though they can be called to active duty in times of emergency. Shivers playing in the MHL are permitted to draw their regular Shiver salaries on top of league pay. Pay in the MHL is based on time and talent. Rookies can expect to make around 2,000c per season while veteran stars command 20,000c and up. Production and post season bonuses add to the pay and endorsement money can also sweeten the deal. Ennui star Jacques Forlaine brings in upwards of 50,000c per season with endorsements and bonuses. Not bad for a Shiver Sergeant.

The MHL is co-ed, with most teams having one or two women on the roster. On interesting side-note, over 65% of the women in the MHL play goalie. The MHL is exempt from the Racial Equality Program; Shaktars and Stormers are not permitted to play (even if they wanted to). Ebons and Brain Wasters, while not strictly prohibited, show no interest in playing the sport, let alone watching it. Wraith Raiders have become huge MHL fans, likely due to the ice and cold of the venues. Wraiths are permitted in the MHL; their speed and grace make them natural players, and several Wraiths have found fame in the ranks of the MHL. Frothers are permitted to play; the Macklin Highlanders is actually an all Frother team. The incredibly strict anti-drug policies tend to keep more Frothers out of the MHL, regardless of how much they enjoy the fighting and hitting people with sticks.

Drug screening in the MHL is regular and stringent, and no biogenetic enhancements are permitted. There is a zero tolerance policy for both, with a lifetime ban for the first offense. No explanations or excuses are accepted. There is no appeals process. Since the league began in 826SD, only eight players have been ejected for violating the drug and biogenetic policies. Players know better and respect the MHL far too much to risk it.

The MHL has worked to keep game tickets affordable, considering that a quarter of the teams in the league operate in low-income sectors. Ticket prices start at 5u for a standing room only pass to 125u for a seat on the glass at center ice at a marquee game. Each stadium can hold around 20,000 fans, so there are plenty of tickets in all price ranges. All games are televised, so fans who can't afford to get tickets can still follow their favorite teams.

Dining choices at games vary from stadium to stadium, with companies annually bidding on vending rights. Expect to see choices like BacBurger or Paramour Pizza in Suburbia/Downtown arenas, while Uptown/Central arenas offer selections from establishments such as Chez Bummin' or Hey! Fondue! Private boxes are often catered by fine restaurants like Martindale's.

An MHL season is 82 games, half played at home and half on the road. The playoffs is an elimination tournament consisting of four rounds of best-of-seven series. The first three rounds determine which team from each conference will advance to the final round. The grand prize in the MHL is the Progress Cup, a large platinum trophy etched with the champion roster for each year. Despite using small print, the Cup has grown to over five feet tall; when space runs out on the cup, another level is added.

Dept. Employment Record #3211/2a

OPERATIVE STATUS CHANGE:
Name: Craig Ferguson
Race: Human
Training Package: Strike Squad
SCL: 9B.5CK
Status:
- Dropped from Squad "Team Spartan"
- Entered as Contract Killer on Contract Circuit
Effective: 9.03.03
Agent/Handler: Carter Burke
CK Callsign: Apathy

Dept. of Psychology & Psychoses/Employment Record #3211/2a/Operative Status

Date: 8.18.903
From: Dr. Kirstin Randolph, Department of Psychology and Psychoses
To: Department of Employment
Re: Operative Craig Ferguson, Strike Squad, Team Spartan (Record #3211/2a), SCL: 9B.5

UPDATE OF CONDITION:
Ferguson continues to be a problem with the staff. He seems to revel in his situation now. On request of his Financier, Carter Burke, Ferguson will be issued a Medical Exemption Certificate and allowed to enter the Contract Circuit. It is hoped that SLA Industries can get some use of this Employee before his mental situation completely degrades.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
Operative Ferguson will receive his Psychological Examination and Evaluation Exemption Certificate as requested.

TREATMENT:
Operative Ferguson will continue to receive a full spectrum of antidepressants when released to the Contract Circuit. At this time, this Dr. and department absolve themselves of any responsibility for the care and actions of the subject in question

BPN Resolution: DEPARTMENT OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS: GREY

Issuing Department: Internal Affairs
Color Code:GREY
BPN #: IA/111623/SN
Surveillance: Station Analysis
Squad/Operative Undertaking: Team Spartan
Date Issued/Date Completed: 8/14/903, 8/15/903

Summary:

• Squad dispatched to [D-NOTICE] to neutralize [D-NOTICE]

• Operatives Fiddich and Obsession infiltrated facility covertly.

• Target successfully neutralized.

• All witnesses neutralized.

• Target facility destroyed.

• Operatives escaped facility without detection.

Collateral Damage to SLA Property:HEAVY Nature of BPN mitigates all damage caused to SLA property.

Squad Fatalities:None.

Conclusion:BPN satisfactorily completed. Squad payout: 500c/Operative. SCL +0.5/Operative.

ADDENDUM: Given Operative Fiddich's willingness to complete a BPN of this nature, this Operative and Squad should be considered for further BPNs of "sensitive" nature.

Advertising Supplement/Gentlemen's Clubs/Slatterns

Type: Exclusive gentlemen's club

Location: Mort Central

Description: Located in the heart of Mort Central, Slatterns is one of, if not the most exclusive gentleman’s clubs on Mort. One does not simply walk into Slatterns. Once must be invited. Invitees are carefully screened before a formal invitation is made. Only those with a surplus of money, power or fame are called on for membership. Invitations are always elaborate and intended as a major spectacle. Traditionally, invitations are delivered by an impossibly beautiful woman flanked by two impossibly huge men. They will arrive in an impossibly huge Augustus limousine. The invitee will be brought into the limo where they will be wined and dined on the finest food and drink before the offer is made. No expense is spared on the presentation. The terms of the membership are financially dear and utterly non-negotiable. The initial membership fee is 5,000c payable immediately, with monthly dues of 1,500c. These fees cover all food and drink at club. Only gratuity and “other expenses” need to be covered.

Despite its name, Slatterns is an extremely opulent and upscale establishment. Members are expected to dress appropriately. While coat and tie or formal gown is not strictly required, showing up in tatty dungarees could eventually get your membership revoked. The building and décor are classic Head Office. Glass, steel, marble and leather are the mainstays. Subtle colored neon tubing trims the interior, suffusing the club with a warm, exotic glow. Seating can be found at the bars, tables, semi-private booths, or one of the many raised platforms on which the famed women of Slatterns perform.

The women of Slatterns are legendary throughout the World of Progress. While the regular bartenders and waitresses are all stunningly attractive, the dancers’ grace and beauty almost defies description. Twenty-four hours a day the finest women in the Known Universe are on display. Though the club invites members of all races (though admittedly few Shaktars and Wraiths accept), Slatterns only employs female humans as wait-staff and female humans and ebons as dancers.

The dancers are all available for personal and private performances as well as a cornucopia of carnal delights. A patron need only ask a waitress for “The Menu.” Requesting “a menu” will produce an actual listing of the drinks and foods available. Requesting “The Menu” will produce a leather-bound, gold-leafed folio with bios and photos of all available dancers on that shift. Along with the photos and bios is a detailed listing of all the “activities” available. These range from as traditional as a lap dance to as exotic as a full-blown (pardon the pun) orgy. The dancers are highly skilled in almost any carnal activity one could dream of. No prices are listed on The Menu; if you have to ask, you probably can’t afford it, and those who can’t afford it would never have been invited in the first place. Accounts are simply discreetly billed for any “activities.”

Whereas most Operatives and Contract Killers would scoff at the idea of paying for sex, there is no such stigma attached to paying for pleasure at Slatterns. Members feel they are paying for quality and public image. They feel paying for the delights of a Slatterns dancer is no different than spending 50,000 on a top of the line Highjoule Masari instead of taking the bus. Both get you where you need to go, but one looks and feels so much nicer and nobody ever looked with envious eyes at some schmuck riding the bus.

Many of the members of Slatterns are there only for social and business reasons. Anyone who is anyone is a member of Slatterns. Being seen going in or out of the club is an automatic boost to the reputation. Business deals are often made inside. Business executives, financiers, and agents do everything in their power to obtain a membership to Slatterns. The large cost of membership often pays for itself after a couple of well planned deals. In an average night, hundreds of thousands, if not millions of credits could change hands under the neon glow.

Slatterns also has the distinction of being one of the few places Intruder frequents of his own volition. He always comes alone and has a private room in the back. Nobody, including management, knows what goes on in there; the less they know the better. Two Dark Finders guard the door to prevent snoopers. Intruder is quite sociable on his way to or from his room, stopping to talk with just about anyone who asks. He is very polite and seems genuinely regretful when he says he must be going.

While Slatterns is not a gambling establishment, accommodations can be made for guests, with the house taking 10% of every pot. Generally a room can be set aside and a dancer provided to run the game. Possibly as a bad intended pun, the only game permitted in Slatterns is poker.

BPN Resolution: THIRD EYE NEWS: RED

Issuing Department: Third Eye News
Color Code:RED.
BPN #: TEt4892544/CS
Surveillance: Third Eye News
Squad/Operative Undertaking: Team Spartan
Date Issued/Date Completed: 3/10/903, 3/10/903

Summary:

• Squad dispatched to Cannibal Sector 5 to diffuse a hostage situation.

• Dante Veteran K'thrr shot down Third Eye News helicopter and captured reporter Rita Hurley, a camera operator, control operator, pilot and co-pilot.
• K'thrr demanded return to her squad on Dante in trade for lives of hostages.
  
• Operatives airlifted to area of situation along with Third Eye Reporter Jackie Turnbull.
• Operative K'dgh attempted to engage K'thrr in negotiations while Operatives Obsession and Tawna flanked the structure. Operative Fiddich was directed to hold his position until situation became hostile.
• During negotiations, Co-pilot was executed by K'thrr to prove resolve.
  
• Reaching a position where she could see the situation clearly, Operative Obsession Reality Folded in behind K'thrr and executed the assailant with a single 12.7mm HEAP pistol round to the back of the head.
  
• Remaining hostages rescued with no further casualties.
• Squad and hostages safely airlifted back to CS5 Wall.

Collateral Damage to SLA Property:MINIMAL. Hostage killed during the rescue operation. Mitigated by employee expendability and safe return of popular media personality

Squad Fatalities:None.

Conclusion: BPN satisfactorily completed. Squad payout+recovery bonus: 3000c/Operative. SCL +0.3/Operative.

BPN Resolution: DEPARTMENT OF RESEARCH: JADE

Issuing Department: Research
Color Code:JADE
BPN #: CD/41163288/DL
Surveillance: Station Analysis
Squad/Operative Undertaking: Team Spartan
Date Issued/Date Completed:3/9/903, 3/10/903
Summary:

• Squad dispatched to Cannibal Sector 1 to investigate an Ebb-sensitive artifact of indeterminate origin. If possible, Squad was to retrieve item; video footage acceptable if artifact unable to be transported back to Sector Wall.
  

• Squad rendezvoused with Sector Ranger base on the river and assisted in repelling a Cannibal assault.

• Squad continued on past river to approximate location of Ebb source.
  

• Squad located source of Ebb inside cave.

• [D-NOTICE]

• [D-NOTICE]

Collateral Damage to SLA Property:NONE. Operation took place in Cannibal Sector 1.

Squad Fatalities:None.

Conclusion:BPN satisfactorily completed. Squad payout+Retrieval Bonuses: 7000c. SCL +0.5/Operative.

Advertising Supplement/Convenience Stores/Honest Akhbar's

Honest Akhbar's

Type: Convenience Store

Locations: Suburbia, Upper Downtown, Lower Downtown

Description: Honest Akhbar's is a chain of dubious convenience stores located predominantly in Suburbia and Upper Downtown. The occasional franchise can be found on the first few levels of Lower Downtown. Honest Akhbar's does not maintain franchises in Uptown or Mort Central.

Honest Akhbar's stocks most mundane and sundry items and has a limited grocery section. Alcohol, tobacco, low end civilian drugs and a rather shockingly large selection of pornographic magazines are available, but kept behind a barrier of bullet proof glass along with the clerk. Akhbar's also features a menu of surprisingly good hot and cold foods for a quick meal. The average meal of a sandwich, chips and drink run about 2-3u.

Some may question how theft is controlled if the clerks are sealed up. The answer is quite simple. Honest Akhbar's has a posted policy that Operatives, Shivers and Monarchs never pay for a meal. While this does not extend to the rest of the store's inventory, the lure of free meals is enough to ensure that at almost any time of day or night, there will be some form of armed SLA employee or law enforcement agent on the premises at any given store. Wise people also know that Akhbar's clerks are a great source of information on what's going down in the streets; it pays to stay on the good side of the clerks. As a last stand against thieves, Honest Akhbar franchises are universally equipped with a unique security system. At the push of a button, metal grates drop from the ceiling to cover every door and window in the store. Once activated, these grates can not be raised by anything short of industrial equipment unless the clerk deactivates the system. With the thieves caged in, the clerk need only wait in his bullet proof kiosk until help arrives.

Advertising Supplement/Fine Apparel/Feingold's

Feingold's Fine Tailoring

Type: Fine custom apparel

Locations: Mort Central

Description: Tucked away among the myriad shops of Mort Central is a small, unobtrusive storefront. There is no gaudy marquee announcing the shop. Simple gold scripts on the window advertises “Feingold's Fine Tailoring.” This unassuming shop produces some of the finest clothing on the planet. Apprentices at Feingold's have gone on to work for Arducci and some of the most prestigious designers on New Paris.

Anyone working at Feingold's is trained under the careful and exacting eye of Martin Feingold. He required all his apprentices to work with him one on one for no less than six months before he will even consider letting them work unsupervised. Even once they are past the apprentice stage, employees will never directly make a garment; employees are only permitted to do measurements and simple alterations. Feingold creates all the garments himself. All employees know the old man's strange job terms. When an apprentice feels they can make a garment to Feingold's standards, they are free to do so at their own expense. Feingold will then inspect the garment carefully. If it meets his strict requirements for quality and aesthetics, the apprentice is fired on the spot. This may seem strange, but it is the highest compliment Feingold can give. He has nothing more to teach at that point. Many fashion designers would kill to be able to say they were fired by Feingold on their resumes.

So how can a shop that only has one master tailor stay in business in Mort Central? Uncompromising quality. Customers know that when they walk into Feingold's, they will not be purchasing anything off the rack. The entire outfit will be custom made from the finest materials the World of Progress has to offer. Even accessories like ties and socks will be made to order. Feingold even keeps a jeweler on retainer to one-off cufflinks, tie pins and other accessories as needed. A shoemaker is also available if needed.

Feingold's operates on an appointment only basis. On entering the shop, the door will be locked and the curtains drawn. The customer will be offered a selection of imported coffees and teas to enjoy while they are measured. The customer then explains what it is they are looking for. Feingold then provides a quick sketch to verify the vision. Materials are discussed, but generally people let Feingold decide the details. Price is never discussed. If you have to inquire about price, you certainly can not afford to wear a Feingold garment. Depending on the garment and the customer, the order can take anywhere from a day to a month. On the average, a man's suit will take about a week. Elaborate ball dresses can take much longer. For those who really need to know prices, a man's ensemble (suit, shirt, tie, pocket square, socks) will cost in the area of 3500-5000 credits. An elaborate formal dress can run easily over 10,000c depending on the materials.

While the idea of a suit of clothing that costs more than a suit of Dogeybone is a little off-putting, one needs to keep certain things in mind. First, the item will be one of a kind and made by hand from the finest materials the World of Progress has to offer. Second, Feingold clothing is guaranteed forever. Once purchased, the customer may return for unlimited alterations. In the impossible event that an item is defective or wears out, Feingold will provide a replacement free of charge. Third, he's been doing this for 213 years. Being Mr. Slayer's personal tailor has its advantages.

Intelligence Report/Soft Company/Randolph Logistics

Name: Randolph Logistics

Type: Independent Soft Company

Products/Services: Smuggling/Illegal Shipping

Company Line: We get it there, no questions asked.

Public Information: Randolph Logistics started innocently enough in 901SD as a small freight handling company run by a pair of brothers, Jim and Ray Randolph. They established themselves as a quick, clean and reliable shipping and moving company. Their big break occurred when transporting some crates to the new home of a rich corporate. While loading the crates on their truck, one fell off and broke open. Inside was a cache of DarkNight weapons. The corporate, who was observing the procedure, offered the brothers a staggering 20,000u if they would just seal up the box and forget they saw anything. The Randolph brothers took the cash. The corporate let them know that if they were willing to continue to ship with no questions asked he could send a lot of work their way. Within six months Randolph Logistics ballooned to 150 employees and were operating an ion-drive cargo ship. Monthly income went from 10-20,000u per month to 125,000u per month; some jobs commanded at least that amount on their own.

What's the secret to Randolph Logistics' success? They truly ask no questions about what they are shipping. They only want to know if any special precautions need to be taken in storing or moving the containers and an honest assessment of the relative risk of the trip. They warn up front that if these critical pieces of information are inaccurate, misrepresented or withheld, the cargo will be unceremoniously dumped, at a Shiver Station if at all possible.

SLA Intelligence: Obviously, Randolph Logistics is a godsend for DarkNight, gangs and any other illegal or subversive group or individual. SLA has been almost helpless in curbing Randolph Logistics' shipping. Cloak Division strongly suspects (correctly) that Randolph Logistics must have SLA Industries employees on their payroll, as shipments are getting through the perimeter walls far more frequently than could be attributed to smuggling via the sewers or other means. On the rare occasion SLA has managed to intercept a Randolph Logistics shipment, the results have been consistent. The Randolph employees simply ditch the vehicle and flee on foot. The escapes are ensured by the fact that employees wear Keshangs, which suggest possible cooperation with Conway Motorsports, Tek Trex and Kustom Killa Chassis. As a rule, no Randolph employee will ever attempt to engage their pursuers in combat. On inspection of abandoned Randolph vehicles, all that will be found are the shipping containers. There will be no bills of lading or paperwork identifying contents, point of origin or destination. The method by which Randolph Logistics keeps track of everything remains a complete mystery.

SLA is stepping up their efforts to curtail Randolph Logistics' shipping. It is estimated that SLA's best efforts are only preventing about 7% of all Randolph traffic from reaching its destination. The threat of a shipping organization that asks no questions is obvious; SLA's promotion of Randolph Logistics to Soft Company status was inevitable.

Employees: Estimated at 150

Facilities: Unknown. The use of an ion-drive ship would necessitate the operation of a shuttle and spaceport of some description. Facilities would also have to be expansive to accommodate the large amount of business Randolph Logistics does. Satellite imaging have yet to locate any Randolph facilities.

Dept. of Psychology & Psychoses/Employment Record #3211/2a/Operative Status

Date: 3.9.903
From: Dr. Kirstin Randolph, Department of Psychology and Psychoses
To: Department of Employment
Re: Operative Craig Ferguson, Strike Squad, Team Spartan (Record #3211/2a), SCL: 9B.5

UPDATE OF CONDITION:
Ferguson appears to be making very little progress in returning to normal Operative life (work, improving his personal situation). He does very little other than talk about his plans to move past his crippling self-doubt and start recovery. He is very convincing when making these claims. When Ferguson tells you for the twentieth time how he is going to "get well, get back to work and find a nice place to live," you want so much to believe him even though the previous nineteen times he did nothing more than talk about it. Each time nothing comes to fruition, he returns to the same bitterness and self-pity he had on checking in.
This cyclical self-destructive extreme optimist/pessimist behavior, if unchecked, is likely to lead to further psychological issues. Bipolar disorder, paralyzing vacillation, egrophobia are all possible if a treatment is not found.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
Operative Ferguson will remain on "medical leave" until further notice.

TREATMENT:
Operative Ferguson will receive a full spectrum of antidepressants in addition to continued counseling. If course of treatment is not successful, more extreme methods will be suggested for consideration.


Attending Physician,
Dr. Kirstin Randolph, SCL 4B.1


NOTES [NOT FOR REPRINT]
So maybe my initial assessment was off. This guy is fucked up like Hogan's Goat. I haven't seen quite such a spectacular meltdown in a while. This guy is throwing a pity part for the ages and I'm not sure what to do to snap him out of it. I may have to drag out "Old Sparky" for a little EST. Exploratory surgery may not be out of the question.

Dept. of Internal Affairs: Discipline Report #43211041/Craig Ferguson

CC: Dept of Requisitions
Re: Vehicle requisition and weapon possession of Operative Craig Ferguson SCL 9B.7
Date: 3/9/903

Due to Mr. Ferguson's extended stay in Bethlehem Asylum, his vehicle (Lancer Motors 03337 Third Eye News Van) had been tagged for return to the company motor pool to fill vehicle distribution shortages. The vehicle was found in unacceptable condition. The following damage was noted on impound:

EXTERIOR
- Extensive non-spec paint/graffiti on majority of the body
- Extensive front end damage consistent with a head-on collision with a pole and/or static barrier
- Fire damage to the rear of the vehicle
- Extensive damage from small-arms fire

INTERIOR
- The interior of the vehicle was converted into a permanent living space in clear violation of the Operative's Handbook (Section 14B Paragraph 3).
-Upholstery and interior saturated with a pungent odor that can be best described as "taco-based."

An inventory of personal effects in the vehicle turned up a FEN204 that was reported missing during a BPN worked by Ferguson (BPN #: HS/48761/SU) It can be safely assumed that he stole the weapon during the BPN.

In response to the damaged vehicle, Mr. Ferguson will be banned from requisition and use of company vehicles for a period of no less than twelve (12) months. Mr. Ferguson will also be charged the cost of repairing/refurbishing the vehicle (1250c).

In response to the weapon, Mr. Ferguson will be charged with Intentional Misappropriation of Company Resources and Possession of a Weapon Without Proper Documentation. He will be tried in absentia. Penalty will be a 0.2 deduction of SCL and a fine of 250c.

BPN Resolution: SHIVER UNIT ORGANIZATION: WHITE

Issuing Department: Shiver Unit Organization
Color Code:WHITE
BPN #: SHS/9758076/DT
Surveillance: Station Analysis
Squad/Operative Undertaking: Team Spartan
Date Issued/Date Completed: 2/6903, 2/7/903

Summary:

• Squad dispatched to Lower Downtown Level 25, Wentmore Sector to ascertain whereabouts of missing Shiver Sleeper Unit.

• After checking Shiver communication logs for APC, Squad investigated site of factory bombing. Interview with on-site Shiver Forensic team resulted in no useful information.

• Began search for gang “Killer Headaches,” suspected of attacking APC in retaliation for previous altercation with Shiver Sleeper squad.

• During search, squad ambushed by unidentified gang. Gang member captured and interrogated. Interrogation revealed possible black market supplier for “Killer Headaches.”

• Squad radioed for Shiver Fire team dispatch to location of ambush to suppress blaze caused by gang members. Fire contained with minimal property damage.

• Squad traveled to location of suspected black market supplier*. Interview revealed “Killer Headaches” attempted to purchase heavy weapons. No transactions were made. Interview also revealed names and locations of two other possible suppliers.

• Squad traveled to first supplier*. Interview showed further proof that “Killer Headaches” intended to purchase heavy weapons to use in APC attack. Gang apparently lacked resources to make purchase, instead opting for small arms. Interview also revealed location of local gang hang out.

• Squad traveled to “Combat Chef” restaurant where employees informed squad of overheard discussion of a planned attack on a Shiver APC on the Hutchinson block.

• Squad traveled to Hutchinson block and began canvassing the area for the Shiver Sleeper Squad.

• Squad discovered group of Scavs stripping Shiver Sleeper APC.

• Squad subsequently came under heavy fire but was able to drive off Scavs. NOTE: Scav weapon was recovered and turned over to Stearman Ballistic Labs for analysis.

Collateral Damage to SLA Property:MINIMAL. Fire started in civilian area. Firearms discharged in a civilian area. Any damage mitigated by prompt dispatch of Shiver Fire Unit and extenuating circumstances.

Squad Fatalities:None. Operative Tawna required medivac services due to loss of limbs in firefight.

Conclusion:Search of the area revealed bodies of several gang members and nine of the ten Sleeper Shivers. The Shiver Sergeant for the unit is still missing and presumed dead. Forensic analysis of the scene shows that “Killer Headaches” were outfitted with DarkNight heavy weapons. It can be safely assumed that the gang was subverted into joining DarkNight. The gang disabled the APC with heavy weapons and was in the process of engaging the Shiver Sleeper Unit when Scavs ambushed and finished off both sides. Team Spartan, responding to the sounds of the firefight, was able to drive off the Scavs before they could successfully strip any equipment from the field.

BPN satisfactorily completed. Individual payout+recovery bonus: 930c/Operative. SCL +0.5/Operative.

ADDENDUM: *Identities of black market suppliers withheld. Value as contacts/informants outweighs benefits of incarceration of these individuals.

Entertainment/Television/Programming Update/Pound of Flesh with Lumpy Jaw

Pound of Flesh with Lumpy Jaw

Pound of Flesh is rapidly becoming one of the more popular television shows on Mort, featuring two of the populace’s favorites: violence and fabulous prizes. The premise is simple; when two people can’t resolve their differences peacefully, one of them contacts the production staff at Pound of Flesh and states their beef. If the producers feel the beef is genuinely interesting (no petty gang squabbles!) they’ll call the other person and see if they are interested in resolving the issue in the ring. If all parties agree, they are booked and eventually brought to Lumpy Jaw CCS for training.

This is really the hook of the show. For one week, each contestant receives intense, one-on-one training with and established Contract Killer. The killer will also act as ringside manager during the fight. At the end of the week the contestants duke it out. Fights are three rounds of five minutes each and are fought to knock-out, submission or, in the event the fight goes the full time, decision. No weapons, armor or drugs are permitted in the fights.

Prizes for winners can be as simple as cash (usually in the area of 1000u) to ringside tickets to upcoming Contract Killer events. Sometimes special prizes are awarded for specific deeds. A Calaharvey motorcycle is the standing prize for anyone who knocks out their opponent in a single blow in the first five seconds of a match. Killers also like to sweeten the pot by offering additional prizes for their fighters if they win. Ridiculous cash prizes (10,000-20,000u), custom replicas of signature melee weapons, even use of the Killer’s home for a weekend catered party have been offered. Regardless of who wins, both contestants receive a selection of Lumpy Jaw clothing and selected memorabilia autographed by their trainers.

The CK trainers take these fights quite seriously, as they’re seen as a reflection on the abilities of the Killer. Smack talk flies from trainers and contestants alike, and trainer grudge matches are common, taking place immediately after the contestants finish their match.

The format of the show is virtually the same from week to week. The first half of each episode covers the training of the two contestants. This is often hilarious, as the trainers attempt to teach complicated signature moves to total novices. The second half features the actual match, any trainer grudge matches, interviews and awarding of prizes.

Pound of Flesh airs Tuesdays at 7pm on SIC Channel 4.

Advertising Supplement/Restaurants/ChünderHaüs/Special Events

ChünderHaüs is pleased to announce that Shaktar Operative K'Dgh (SCL9B.0) of Team Spartan will be visiting all of the Uptown ChünderHaüs locations during from 12/23/902-12/31/902! He will be available for autographs, photos and special activities! Bring the kids and meet a real life Sector Ranger! Watch as he powers down plate after plate of awesome ChünderHaüs food! Just don't touch his Orange Chicken, he's killed for less!

BPN Resolution: CLOAK DIVISION: GREY

Issuing Department: Cloak Division
Color Code:GREY
BPN #: CD/111111/AS
Surveillance: Station Analysis
Squad/Operative Undertaking: Team Spartan
Date Issued/Date Completed: 12/28/902, 12/28/902

Summary:
- Subversive [D-NOTICE] determined to be behind recent rash of bombings in Suburbia
- Information gathered via Operative Obsession's interrogation determined [D-NOTICE] likely had a base of operations outside Mort City in [D-NOTICE]
- Squad dispatched via Stingray dropship to [D-NOTICE]
-Squad located facility and performed a dynamic entry, eliminating guards while minimizing collateral damage
-Squad prevented [D-NOTICE] from escaping. Suspect was captured alive and remanded to Shivers for Cloak Division pickup.

Collateral Damage to SLA Property:MINOR. Firearms discharged in a [D-NOTICE]. Moderate damage to company shuttle and trike. Any damage mitigated by capture of suspect alive and minimal damage to facility.

Squad Fatalities:None.

Conclusion:BPN satisfactorily completed. Individual payout+Retrieval Bonuses: 3060c/Operative. SCL +0.5/Operative.

BPN Resolution: INVESTIGATION: WHITE

Issuing Department: Investigation
Color Code:WHITE
BPN #: IN/12252009/XM
Surveillance: Station Analysis
Squad/Operative Undertaking: Team Spartan
Date Issued/Date Completed: 12/26/902, 12/27/902

Summary:
- Squad dispatched to several Suburbia locales to investigate series of bombings
- Squad staked out several locations in Suburbia, eventually locating a targeted home
- Squad located bomber leaving area, pursued and captured suspect
-Shiver demolitions team dispatched to dispose of explosive; explosive successfully neutralized
-Squad leader Obsession interrogated suspect, revealing identity and location of individual ordering the bombings. Suspect turned over to Shivers.

Collateral Damage to SLA Property:MINIMAL. Firearms discharged in a civilian area. Any damage mitigated by safe disposal of explosive and prevention of future incidents.

Squad Fatalities:None.

Conclusion:BPN satisfactorily completed. Individual payout: 350c/Operative. SCL +0.5/Operative.

ADDENDUM: Squad recommended follow up Grey BPN to eliminate subversive responsible for organizing the bombings.