To: RPA| Commanders | From: Com. Pimakhova

[Jayenbee]

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Source: "Maguire" Comms-Net
Applying decryption algorithm...

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From: Darian Wynne, RPA
To: Commissar K. Pimakhova
Subject: A mutual friend

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Not yet we don't.

Either we're working more closely on this one, or I'm changing the deal.

Now just how do you intend to go into this interrogation 'Commissar', what's your angle? The secrecy, I can understand, especially in my line of work. But when you ask us to kidnap a man, keeping mention of the Coalition way out of it, it makes no sense for you to go in all badge-blazing Commissar. The way you had this mission penned, he's to be released? Not from his mortal coil I presume, so why aren't we more involved?

Not trying to recruit him, are you Pimakhova?
This 'bacterium' as you call it, that's the plague that dissolves you from the inside out? I can certainly see the potential, though our enemies don't always overlap now do they? And a weapon like this doesn't care for those nuances. I am particularly glad that such a dangerous man found himself put securely away, under Molly protection.

He's an even higher value target than I thought, our ransom isn't nearly high enough.

Tell me what the Doc's fate is supposed to be and what tangible result I'll get out of this, then maybe I'll consider honouring your request, Miss Pimakhova.

Your intel is safe.
For now.

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When contending with a monster, you'd be wise to give the devil his due.

[Com. K. Pimakhova]

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--> Incoming Transmission

Subject: A mutual friend
Recipient: Darian Wynne, RPA
Sender: Commissar K.Pimakhova

Auth-code: TEK395IO
Location: [NULL]


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I respect your shrewdness, Wynne, and your consideration for making sure you are not being played. However, let's not let the paranoia typical of those found in marginalised states such as ours to be our own undoing in this endeavour. You've the wit to hear what is unsaid. A trait I admire. Yet to demand the unsaid be spoken invites risk and complication. I shall share the unspoken, for you've put me in a difficult situation. Know, though, that I do not appreciate this strain on our working relationship. A strain that will ease, I'm sure, when you understand your suspicion is not warranted.

Indulge me for a moment, Wynne, and set your mind to imagining a scene. A corporate executive from, lets say BMM, is departing Carlisle after a tiresome business trip. They've been workshopping with the managers of a manafactory on how to process a greater volume of raw inputs. To relieve the sweat from their brow after pushing those pencils about, they open the air flow valve above their flight seat for some cold, refreshing breeze.

The executive and their BMM employed pilot are found to have perished. Contamination of Carlisle's most dangerous microbes somehow find a way aboard the shuttle. Perhaps this tragedy occurs more than once. Without the knowledge that we currently share, think upon the following questions.

How could such an awful incident occur?
If this could happen now, could it happen again?
Is Carlisle as safe as the 'experts' would have us believe?
Is it safe for those who are immigrating there?
Does Carlisle remain a sound investment for those Libertonian corporations invested in it's development?
What might happen to the Crown and it's apparatus if Carlisle were to fail?
If foul play was detected, who would be the natural suspects?

Targetted strikes on the most culpable capitalists for maximal economic impact with blame diverted is what I'm offering, Wynne. Your enemy, the Crown and their capitalists, are showing weakness. They teeter on the brink of ruin. Let us have a hand in pushing them over the edge.

For that, I shall recruit Dr. Moore, acquire their knowledge, and have them act as a sleeper for when the time is right to begin the work in earnest.

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Your decision, Wynne?

Z Povagou - Commissar Pimakhova

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[Jayenbee]

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> Incoming transmission <

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Source: "Maguire" Comms-Net
Applying decryption algorithm...

...complete.
Establishing video uplink.

From: Darian Wynne, RPA
To: Commissar K. Pimakhova
Subject: A mutual friend

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You win this time.

The Assembly is otherwise inclined to grant you access and I'm not keen on bringing their attention to this right now. But understand Miss, if you're getting hands on with some biological warfare within Bretonia, I want in on it. Upstart BMM Execs or not, they're our misguided Bretonian kin, and I won't have some far-flung autarchy dictate that alone.

I respect the approach, your perceived goals and you could say I'm a little more motivated for whatever else you've got on your desk.

You'll see your Doc, alone, as requested.

Just keep me apprised.

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> End of Transmission <

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When contending with a monster, you'd be wise to give the devil his due.