River Ward

Couldn't wait around any longer for you, V. Take care...

Meet me in the evening on the corner of Pacifica Blvd and Market St.

V, where are you? I'm waiting...

Hey, where are you? We don't have time – come back quick, please!

Don't have time to wait for you, V. Randy's out there and he needs our help. Looks like I'm doing this alone...

V, where are you? I'm waiting in the car...

Couldn't wait around any longer for you, V. Take care...

I don't know where you are, but I can't keep waiting. Thanks for your help till now, but I need to hurry up and find Randy...

V, where are you? Heading back to the car. Get over here and help me, please!

V, where are you? We have to save Randy, I need your help!

Strange of you to leave at this particular time. I just hope Randy'll make it out alive...

I'm heading back to that barn. Where are you?!?

I don't know where you went, but I can't keep waiting. Randy needs help!

You could've called quits at any other moment, V, but you chose that one? Well, guess what. Randy's dead. You and I are finished.

You could've called quits at any other moment, V, but you chose that one? Thankfully, Randy's alive. Thought you might wanna know.

Quick, get in the car! We need to go!!!

V, where are you? We're losing time. Get back here, quick! I'm counting on you.

Don't have time to wait for you, V. Randy's out there and he needs our help. Looks like I'm doing this alone...

I can't believe you just left me like that – not a word, nothing. Doesn't change the fact that someone's still gotta save Randy, so I guess I'll do it without you. You truly know how to disappoint, V. I'd rather you stayed out of my life from now on. Goodbye.

Hey, V. It's River. Question – would you be willing to testify against Holt and Han?

Thanks. Might not be necessary – asking just in case.

Too bad. But it's fine, I get it...

I hate to say it, but... You were right all along

Won't be needing your testimony after all!

Nothing much to tell. Testifying is a snooze-fest anyway.

Don't doubt it – first time I saw you, I knew you had that kinda vibe...

Hey, V, I'm gonna go visit Randy in the hospital and wanna buy him a present. Got any tips?

Good thinking. How about you? How're ya holding up?

Still haven't decompressed after everything, but at least I'm not worried sick. Randy's alive and that's all that matters.

Still haven't gotten around to that, but I promise I'll drink one for you ;)

Well... how could I say no to that ;)

Docs say she's in critical condition, but she'll pull through ;)

Now there's an idea! I'll keep it in mind ;)

Hehe, well I think the real River and the real V would get along perfectly... I'll be in touch soon;)

Course I will. Take care of yourself, V!

Can you pick up?

Just pick up. I don't like to play games

Where the hell are you? I'm turning NC upside down trying to find you...

PICK UP THE HOLO

Please I'm begging you

Johnny...? Just one call, you owe me that much

Lost track of you somewhere, but I found Christine Markov. Waiting for you.

Hey, V. I'm at the market in Japantown. Come by when you're free.

I'm at the address the CI gave us. Dump looks sketch. I'll wait for you.

Waiting in front of the CI's store. It'd go a lot smoother if you were here... come over, alright?

Hmmm OK, guess you're busy...

Hey V… I was tidying up the bedroom when I realized there's way more space here than I need all to myself. If you ever want to leave a few things at my place, feel free. Something cozy to slip into... or maybe just a box of grenades. You know, the usual ;)

Hey V, hope everything's alright with you...

Thanks for dropping by. I had a really good time :)

I'm really glad you dropped by. Missing you already ;)

That's good

Well my family thinks I've got an awesome friend ;)

Joss says hi. You have no idea how nice it is to see her smile again...

Thanks for everything, V. You should come over again soon :)

Oh, I'm all for a round two – I've already got some new ideas that'll drive you crazy ;) You'll be begging...

Begging for more... But seriously – I've got a good feeling about this. And well... I'm just happy, like, dumb happy, you know? You're really amazing, V.

OK, maybe this isn't the best time... Lemme know when you wanna meet.

Hey listen, about the thing with Johnny. I can imagine it must be pretty hard on you. If you ever need to talk, I'm here.

Just remember you can always count on me. For anything

Hang in there, V

Harris is a corpse, V. I killed him and covered my tracks. Even if I don't fully understand why I did. This is goodbye.

V, I just wanted to say... I'm really grateful for your help, even if we fucked it all up. I just... I have to forgive Harris, forget about what he did to Randy, put everything and everyone behind me. That includes you. I'm sorry

Harris is a corpse. I killed him and covered my tracks. It's finally over... Goodbye, V.

I know you couldn't care less, but Harris is a corpse. I iced him and covered my tracks. The nightmare's finally over... and this is goodbye.

Hey, V. There's this thing I really could use your help with. Heavy stuff. Please come to the Glen in the evening. Sending you the location now.

Hey V. Feel like swinging by Joss's for dinner?

Great! See you then!

Gotcha. Well, just gimme a call if you change your mind, k?

I missed you, you know.

See ya soon then.

Alright, another time then.

Randy says hi!

Yeah, he gets stronger every day. You have no idea how grateful we are.

Loved it, actually. I mentioned it was your idea.

BWell... He sure tried to look like he enjoyed it. Gotta sharpen up my uncling skills pronto.

Anything, you say? I'll keep that in mind :)

24/7? Don't think I won't pick you up on that!

By the way – I was at the hospital and met the parents of those two boys we'd saved at the farm. They wanted me to thank you.

ASince we're exchanging niceties – I met the parents of those two boys we'd saved at the farm. They wanted me to thank you.

DYou shouldn't think like that. We did what we could.

Oh, and I also met with Yawen. You know, the one from the lab.

CAncient history.

DExactly.

EYawen Packard. She helped us with the Peter Pan case. My ex, remember?

CYou couldn't be more wrong. Someone else is on my mind these days.

DDon't know about that. I feel like too much is happening right now to even consider it.

EI thanked her for helping us with Harris. She risked her job back then. Sends her regards.

Oh my, V! Did I just smell a hint of jealousy there?

Haha! You have nothing to worry about, really. Promise. Hope to see you soon, V.

BNot for me, for Yawen! She's a great catch – intelligent, stable job, doesn't leave dirty dishes in the sink... She's all yours for the taking! Seriously though, hope to see you soon. Take care, V.

So... Have a good one, V!

Time will tell. Keep your fingers crossed, anyway. I'll see you around.

You were in my dreams today, you know?

Think you can handle it? ;)

...in a way. Wanna hear it?

Well, I woulda told you anyway. You were riding a motorcycle, jacked into it via smart link. Your every thought, every reaction were immediately picked up by the machine. Before a turn, the bike leaned to the side before you even thought about it. When you pushed on the throttle, it roared forward, eager to please and thrill you. Your thighs were clutching its metal body, your muscles pulsating with excitement as you dashed down the highway... You probably figured by now I was the bike in the dream. And then... then I woke up.

Shame... Thought you'd like that.

What do you think? Who haunted whom?

It's as good as the rider :D

That bad, huh? Well, you win some, you confuse some :) Time to park the bike in the garage. FOREVER.

Hey, V. I could use your help with a tricky matter.

Don't worry, the only thing needs saving this time is my dignity. Remember when I told you I considered becoming a PI?

Well now the private dick is blushing!

I'm gonna go for it. Feels like the right move for me. Combining the familiar with something new. And you played a part in it too, you know?

And not a small one at that! Which is why I'd like for you to pick a name for my new enterprise. Whaddya say?

CBut?

I was actually counting on that. Got anything good?

Oh, wow. Don't know what to choose now...

Hmm...

I do. A lot, actually. Just need to sleep on it now.

BI got some options, now I have to sleep on them.

CWas thinking the same thing ;) We're in touch!

DI will. Unless I decide I don't like your suggestions, in which case I'll start actively avoiding you :P

Ugh. I'll bet your sweet ass I'm even worse at this!

Come on. I've seen how creative you can get. Help me out on this one. Please?

Phew. That's a load off my shoulders. I'll be waiting, then!

Damnit. Fine. I'll think about it.

Still thinking.

Especially about your goods.

BLaugh all you want. Thinking isn't exactly in the NCPD job description.

Okay, two ideas right off the bat: "River Ward Patrol" or "Detective Hunch Private Investigations." Thoughts?

Hmm... Why?

Right. Makes sense. Thank you, V, you helped me a lot!

Already mentioned that you deserve a lot of credit for all of this. But I'll understand if you don't want to have anything to do with it.

Fine. I still like you, though.

More "big" than "dummy," I hope! I'll keep in touch about this.

Hey! I talked to my neighbors today and I got really inspired. I think I got it. Ready? Here goes... "Your Super-Detective Companion." I'll get a big, old-fashioned signboard and everything. What do you think? It's great, right?

...you're messing with me now, aren't you?

BNow that's a good answer if I ever saw one! You deserve a special kiss for that :*

Damn, do I like you, girl :)

Guess what, V… Today, I founded my very own company! It's official!

Night City Crime Ward

BWarning Shot P.I.

CEdgewood Findings P.I.

DMy Justice P.I.

ERiver Ward Patrol

FDetective Hunch P.I.

GYour Super-Detective Companion

Has a nice ring to it, don't ya think?

You - a merc. Me - a P.I. Quite the pair and not all that unalike. We help the client find what they can't find themselves.

AExactly. And I'd rather not dwell on those details… Or the old cop in me is gonna get antsy

BSee? We complement each other. That's good business ;)

AWell, not even the lucky ones get to work with complete info… Still, see what you mean. But if I'm looking for a missing person, it'd be good to know if they don't wanna be found. Like a woman fleeing her abusive husband.

BNot sure you have any idea just how many enemies I made in my service with the NCPD. I know a thing or two about replacing old problems with new ones :)

ASo you're on call 24/7? Hey, if you like it… :D

BRight! Thanks for the reminder. Knew I forgot something...

Btw, cross your fingers for me. Think I might have my first contract. Client has til the end of today to decide and give me the scoop. It's re: a disappearance, which is perfect. That's where I see myself focusing my effort.

Hmmm… Now what could that mean… Wait, don't telll me, I'm a detective after all ;)

BNah, c'mon. Don't worry about little old me. Athough it is cute :)

AOooh… well if you do get lost, I'll be there to find you. ;) Unfortunately gotta put down my phone for a bit, but we'll talk soon. Givin you kisses up down and all around.

BYou're always at the top of my to-do list! Unfortunately truth is I do actually gotta go right now. Hang in there, V. Love ya lots!

Sat for a spell on the water tower yesterday, you know the one. Couldn't stop thinking about last time. Us up there, that view… Never thought I was the puppy love type, but here we are…

I'm glad you feel the same. I've been buried in this city for so long now it feels like, with you, I've finally dug my out, filled my lungs with fresh air for the first time. Does that make sense? It's such a strange, new, wonderful feeling I can't even describe it.

Haha! I may be falling for you, but not off that tower. Not now that I have someone in my life who can make me laugh again… And make me feel like I'm always soaring 50 feet above the earth :)

Say, you ever think about your roots? Where you come from, where you're going, and all that? Just thinkin how my parents didn't and now I know so little about my ancestors. I've tried to connect with other people of the Pomo tribe here in NC but they're either all gone or they're like me and Joss - lost and detached. Heard there's strong community in NorCal but idk... maybe someday.

Maybe you're right. It's about where you choose to put down your own roots and who to build a life around.

Yeah, why dwell on what's not yours anymore or never was. It's about where you choose to put down your own roots and who to build a life around.

God dammit, V, I love you. Still can't believe the lucky bastard I am to have you

ARight. First we gotta get that squatter out of your head.

BRight. All anyone can do is seize the day. One day at a time.

Course, what's the issue?

That's why I need 4 power generators

Whoa whoa you need what? Generators…??

Hold on, need to think a sec.

There's an evidence locker with some generators on file

But you do remember I got kicked off the force, right? Surely you're not asking me to steal NCPD property or grease anyone's palms…

Ahhh fuck it… ok. I've kept in contact with a couple friendly faces who still owe me a favor. I'll figure something out

I'll get you those generators. I'll even toss in the fixer's delivery fee. They'll drop them in the dumpsters by the Coronado Bay movie theater.

I know I know… :)

What can I say - just like to help

Straight to biz. Gotta admit it stings a little that I only get a sign of life when there's trouble. As much as I admire your directness, we really gotta work on our foreplay :) So tell me what's goin on

I always excpected we'd throw some fun surprises at each other. This... I did not expect. BUT that doesn't mean I'm any less willing to help!

I like you, V. A fact you know how to use to your advantage. But dammit if that's not part of your charm ;)

Oh I know… Just don't tell anyone. No one's gonna hire a big softie for their hard-line detective :)

<3 xo

I think I got just the thing…

Sorry, can't take a holo right now, a little tied up. But hit me - what's up?

V, feelin thirsty? Beer's on me. Wanted to bounce a thought off ya.

and of course enjoy the company of the preemest woman in the city ;)

Or… maybe you're working a big gig right now?

V, everything ok?

I'm trying to call, can you please answer?

17 missed calls from River Ward

hey, how goes it? still think about me from time to time?

AI respect that. Staying focused is staying safe.

BIf you wanna talk about, I'm here. Who knows, maybe I could even help…

CWell now you HAVE to give me details…!

BANot an appropriate subject for the holo, hm? I get it.

CASeeing as our ideas for a date match up, maybe we should set things in motion?

CBWell excuuuuse me…

CCAll good, understood. You've got your secrets, I've got one or two of my own ;)

CBInstead of saying sorry, I could make it up to you by helping you reenact that scene in real life…?

Just remember that no matter what the job is or who it's for - your safety's most important

CCBI just hope all's good between us. Next time just give me a sign, anything, that you're still alive…

CABI get it. Do what you have to do.

In my experience, sacrificing too much on someone's behalf rarely pays off. People's gratitude is usually shortlived and the money doesn't last forever.

ACourse, I'll let you get back to it. We'll catch up later. Maybe over dinner, who knows ;)

B!OBSOLETE

CCourse, I never doubted you. I just hope we'll meet up soon to chat…

Whatever happens, look after yourself :)

Outta town? Without me?

I know, just kiddin around. But you'll be home quick, yeah?

Then why go? What's this about?

Do my best

Tell ya once I'm back. :) For now, gotta delta

V!

How've you been?

Ha, good, good. But could always be better…

All's well, thanks. Although I'd love to hear you ask me that in person…

Wow, good read. You ever thought about becoming a detective? :P

You probably already guessed what this is all about… want to meet up? Catch up?

Perfect! Be there in a flash!

Great idea! Should I bring chips…?

Sounds great! I'll head out soon!

I'll clean myself up and be right over!

It's settled then :)

Haven't you heard what they do to the cops behind that wall? Do me a favor and keep us within NCPD jurisdiction :P

Ouch! Heartless! :P I'm sure we'll have better luck next time!

So, yeah… Ok! Can't wait!

Hey, V! Work is pretty light right now. Can I come by your place? :)

A lot of somethings on my plate right now, actually. :( But I'll let you know when I'm free!

Hey, sweetie… Can I call you that? Sweetie? hmm...

Hey, how's your day been? Mine's been full of thoughts of you :)

Do you know how much I like you? T H I S M U C H

Maybe… you'd like to get together again? If you're not opposed…

Any chance you'd like to enjoy my humble company?

I'd like to do something for you. Like… maybe visit?

If you're looking to improve your day… maybe I can help? :)

I… would prefer Night City, if I'm being honest :)

Ouch! Heartless! :P I'm sure we'll have better luck next time!

Good thing I can't get speeding tickets ;)

Sit back. I'll be there soon <3

Getting ready now. Me and the butterflies in my stomach :P

Hey there, beautiful :)

You know, think it probably goes without saying at this point but… you bring light to my life, V. If you feel the same, just remember - one word and I'm at your doorstep <3

You have my number. I mean... obviously, haha.

Already counting the hours and seconds :)

Ha, I'll need a signature knock then. Don't want you confusing me with a Buck-A-Slice delivery :D

Well… talk later!

Haha, thanks for the gift, V. This thing is 100x better than my old police cruiser!

V, what a romantic! Do these flowers smell like you too? Or is that just my wishful thinking? ;)

As for sharing memories, I'd love to tell you more about myself. But… by "dry" did you mean "sober"?

Say, just how much have you had to drink today, hm?? :P

Haha, well I know other places too, you know :)

I love you, babe <3

Hey V! Got a job for you if you’re interested. A car was stolen from the NCPD. The twist: it's NOT a police cruiser. It’s a blazing red Yaiba Semimaru - only one of its kind in NC. Hard to miss, harder to catch. You got time to chase it down?

BHey hey! Just got wind of a job for the city's most beautiful merc, if you’re interested. A car was stolen from the NCPD. The twist: it's NOT a police cruiser. It’s a blazing red Yaiba Semimaru - only one of its kind in NC. Hard to miss, harder to catch. You got time to chase it down?

AOf course you do

BHonestly, I'm a little surprised they beat you to the punch ;)

Wouldn't mind if you could pinch hit for us on this one, V

Honestly... with what happened to Randy, what almost happened, I'm gonna lay low on this one - direct my focus and attention where it matters right now

BAnd I'll always be your biggest fan no matter what, buuuut I'm gonna need you to pinch hit for us on this one, V ;)

BAfter what happened with Randy, what almost happened, connecting with you… I'm gonna lay low on this one - direct my focus and attention where it matters right now, be there when he needs me

One thing that’s been bothering me… some people at the NCPD have been interested in that car, unusually so. Gut tells me they’re hiding something. Got a bad feeling

Need you on this one, V. Whaddaya say?

AHope I’m wrong but for peace of mind when you get your hands on that car, need you to jack in and search for anything of note

BWouldn’t ask if I didn’t think you were the best fit. Whaddaya say?

AI appreciate it, really

BMmm… I'll have to keep that in mind ;)

AGreat!

BPerfect :)

AI understand, just know there's no one else with skills like yours. No one I trust. Let me know when you’ve got some bandwidth to take this on

BI understand, I know you have plenty on your plate. I just think something's really off and you’re the only one I can truly trust with this. Give me a buzz when you’ve some bandwidth to take this on

The Semimaru was last reported driving at dangerous speeds on the main highway. Headed towards Watson. Sending you the location.

AGive me a buzz once you have an update. And good luck out there

BGive me a buzz once you have an update. You got this :)

Knew you were perfect for the job! Find anything shady?

I'm off the force, remember? I'm a free agent, I can bat for whoever I please. So long as I have you for a teammate ;)

Nice work - you find anything?

Fuck… we’re supposed to be better than this. We have to be. Always someone who thinks they're above the rules...

BHmm. Well, thanks for checking. Still, can’t shake the feeling something's off – there’s no reason the NCPD should care so much about an off-the-books car. Only plausible reasons I can think of are shady as hell. Dammit…

AI know what justice looks like - sometimes you gotta find it outside the established system

AI'm off the force, remember? I'm a free agent, I can bat for whoever I please

BGuess shedding the badge loosened me up a bit. :) Lucky for you, I don’t mind getting a little dirt under my fingernails now and again

BI know what justice means. When the corrupt write the rulebook, it makes you want to stop playing their game, doesn't it?

BThanks for the assist

BSometimes things are too fucked to play by the book. Badge or no badge.

BThanks for having my back. Hope you know I’ve got yours too. Talk later <3

ACan’t fix the NCPD in one day, but I can make sure no one uses this car for their shady bullshit anymore.

AThe Semimaru's yours. It belongs with someone who has at least an ounce of integrity. I’ll fudge a report to make sure it stays off the NCPD's radar

BTell you what, the Semimaru’s yours. I’ll fudge the report so patrols won’t hassle you if they catch you riding around town in it

AIf the rulebook's written by the corrupt, what's the point in following it? Anyway… blessed to have you in my life, V.

BGlad I can count on you, V. We make a good team.

Slippery fuckers... Well, I don't expect a flashy car like to stay hidden for long - I'll ping ya when I get a fresh report. Be in touch

BDon't sweat it! Flashy car like that won't stay hidden for long - I'll ping ya when I get a fresh report. Be in touch :)

AAgain? Damn. Talk about escape artists. I'll check in with my source – maybe we’ll get lucky. I’ll be in touch.

BDon’t sweat it! We’re not outta this game yet. I’ll get back to you when it pops up again.

ADamn. Gotta step it up, V. Still got my ear to the ground tho. We’ll find them.

BHey, don’t beat yourself up! Catching a car like that is no small task. We’ll get another shot at it.

V, received word that the Semimaru just got pinged on the highway. Sending you the location. Happy hunting.

BBabe! The Semimaru's reared it red head on the highway again! Sending you last known coords. You got this!

ASource of mine caught wind of our speedy red menace on the highway again. Game’s back on.

BFate smiles on us again! ;) Semimaru's been spotted on the highway again.

ASemimaru's resurfaced on the highway. Up for another crack at it?

BKnew we’d get another chance! Can’t shake us that easy. Last seen on the highway. Go get 'em, V!

V, feelin thirsty? Beer's on me. Wanted to bounce a thought off ya.

and of course enjoy the company of the preemest woman in the city ;)

Or… maybe you're working a big gig right now?

V, everything ok?

I'm trying to call, can you please answer?

17 missed calls from River Ward

Hey, checking in. It's been a few weeks…

Hey again, starting to get real worried now. You said just a few weeks and that was half a YEAR ago

Make that a full year… what the hell?