Wakako Okada

Gig type: SOS: Merc Needed
Objective: Rescue Lauren Costigan from the Tyger Claws
Location: Building by Raymond St.
Details:

Old sins cast long shadows. And Bradley Costigan is guilty of many. As a result, he not only found himself in prison, but also invited trouble into the life of his wife, Lauren Costigan. It's your task to help her.

When Bradley landed a spot behind bars, he was contacted by old acquaintances in the Tyger Claws. Shiv some snitches, they said. He said no.

Tygers don't like that word. They kidnapped his wife and sent stills as proof. No great surprise, Bradley began to cooperate. But he also remembered me. He's promised payment and I believe he's desperate enough to be good for it.

My people have already tracked where the stills were taken. Once you have the coordinates, set to work immediately.

Lauren is secure – I am informing Bradley now. Thank you for your help. Contract closed.

Gig type: SOS: Merc Needed
Objective: Locate netrunner Chang-Hoon Nam, 67 years old, regular associate
Location: Restaurant on Crescent St.
Details:

For years, I worked to get jobs done comfortably, with a crew I hand-picked myself. I chose Chang-Hoon Nam years ago, and he hasn't let me down once. I don't know what happened to him, but you must get him back. Check the basement in that Chinese place. He keeps his gear there, sometimes takes a side gig or two. I think he's still alive – if he weren't, he's the type who'd come back as a ghost and apologize, just like in those tales from the old country that make me want to puke. He's sentimental like that.

I was informed of how you handled yourself. Good work – I expected nothing less from you. I am closing the contract.

Gig type: Agent Saboteur
Objective: Place a wiretap in a Tyger Claw-controlled shrine
Location: Shinto shrine at Milagro Terrace
Details:

The person should not stray from the road and the tiger should not leave his mountain steppes. Or misfortune will find them both.

Tyger Claw boss Taki Kazo thinks he's smart. He thinks I won't find out about his agreement at the shinto shrine on Milagro Terrace. He thinks I don't know he's using the shrine's honden for secret meetings. He thinks he can rule Japantown without my influence. He will be wrong.

I'll give you a wiretap to place right at the shintai in the most sacred of shinto spaces. Don't make a noise. And don't disappoint me.

One more thing – you performed the task with flying colors and surpassed my expectations. You will find my additional reward at the drop point.

You were to do this quietly. It was anything but. The whole city heard what happened in the shrine. Your payment will reflect your carelessness. I am closing the contract.

You entered and left like a ghost, V. Nobody at the shrine even knew of your presence. Excellent work. Closing the contract and making the transfer.

Gig type: Search and Recovery
Objective: Retrieve Leah Gladen's lockbreaker device
Location: Building on the corner of Holly and Floyd St, door code 2137
Details:

A great treasure can turn out to be a great curse. Remember that, V.

One of the fences in my territory, Leah Gladen, came into possession of some highly valuable equipment – a lockbreak device capable of jailbreaking corp cyberware (some call it a CorpCracker). This tech opens doors for suits who want out but don't want to lose function of corp-issued chrome or are looking to make an extra eddie by selling secondhand.

Leah wasn't born yesterday. She knows what the tech is worth. She and I went back and forth, long price negotiations. We were close to reaching a deal when all contact was lost.

Your job is to find out what happened to Leah – but more importantly to get that skeleton key for me. Don't bother reporting back until you have it. Don't waste time.

I see you were able to find the lockbreaker. Splendid work – keep it up. Closing the contract.

Gig type: Thievery
Objective: Steal Vortex's credchip
Location: Tyger Claws' casino on Longshore South
Details:

The vulture is the wisest bird. While others lose strength in the pursuit of prey, the vulture waits patiently – it only spreads its wings when it smells blood on the air.

You will be my vulture, V. I heard a Tyger Claws casino has been robbed by one of their own – a dealer. The girl had an alias, Vortex, and she managed the casino's machines. She programmed them to skim a small percentage so a drop from each win landed in her bucket. It took years for the Tygers to realize how they were being cheated. You can imagine they were not pleased. But their ferocity extended too far. Vortex died during the interrogation before revealing where she stored the stolen money. A vulture is wiser than a Tyger, V. You will find it.

I will send you the Vortex's last known location. Don't let me down.

I have received information that Vortex's shard is on its way. You did not disappoint, V. That deserves compensation. I am closing the contract and transferring your fee.

Have you ever been to a zoo, V? Do you know what happens if you provoke a tiger before opening its cage? No? This will be your chance to find out firsthand. The Tygers have your scent. Will you hide? Or will you fight?

Gig type: Special Delivery
Objective: Meet with Sergei Karasinsky and deliver his gift to the designated address
Location: Garage on Redwood St.
Details:

Sergei Karasinsky called. He's a solo who, like my husband, acts before he thinks. It's a personal characteristic that always leads to the same thing sooner or later – trouble. Fortunately for us, Sergei is not only a man who acts without thinking but a panicked one at that. This means the pay is good and almost literally flying out of his account into ours.

Sergei is waiting for you at Silk Road. You will meet him there and pick up the peace offering he would like delivered to the Tyger Claws. He can't do this himself because he's recently been added to their blacklist.

The boy believes this small token will help the Tygers find forgiveness in their hearts for his terrible mistake.

I see you do not ask unnecessary questions, V. You simply do what is asked of you. I admire such an approach, and I know how to compensate it. Contract closed.

You would be the last person to get bought by a corpo stuffed in a trunk. Or so I thought. You never fail to surprise, V. Though I do suppose he who offers most shall get his way. Oh, I do not mean Sergei. No, sadly he was outbid by another interested party. Who knows what will become of him now... Quid pro quo, V. Quid pro quo. Contract closed.

My dear V, you have disappointed me. What use is there in that? Next time, think before you act – otherwise you gamble with my temper. It is a losing game. Talk soon, V.

Gig type: SOS: Merc Needed
Objective: Protect Walter Ozark
Location: Japantown
Details:

V, urgent job for you. A client just called about a problem with his head. Someone is in it.

Client's name is Walter Ozark, a corpo – didn't say where but it's an urgent request with good pay so I didn't ask. Like any mid-level manager, he was issued a memory backup implant. But Walter believes he has reason to suspect that it was laced with malware. In other words – he has someone listening in on his thoughts. Probably a rival colleague but – again – who cares.

Walter plans to reboot his implant but says as soon as tampering begins, the person responsible will receive a signal. If so, they could send someone to intervene. Walter's decided the safest strategy is to carry out the operation in a moving car to buy more time. I already have a runner willing to burn out the malware, but I need you behind the wheel. And remember – there's a reason why I hired you for this rather than a normal chauffeur. I'll send you the coordinates.

Gig type: SOS: Merc Needed
Objective: Rescue netrunner from Tyger Claws
Target info: 8ug8ear, real name unknown, 24 years old
Location: Salinas St.
Details:

Used to be 8ug8ear and the Tygers got along. They were supposed to work a Kiroshi warehouse job together, but she left them out to dry – remotely drove out a van packed with high-end gear and abandoned them inside. Certain death. But those Tygers are a tough crew, you know how stubborn they can be. The next day they pull up to her apartment wanting to know where she stashed the tech. 8ug8ear was desperate, escaped to the Net, shrouded herself in soft that'd flatline her if they tried to disconnect her. Of course now they just have to watch the clock tick. Eventually, 8ug8ear will have to come out or risk frying her own synapses. And the Tygers are patient, especially in matters of revenge. Personally, I think they like it more this way.

Get 8ug8ear out of there and give word – I'll send transport. But remember to disconnect her safely. She's useless to me dead.

Your transport is waiting outside.

Well done, my dear. I am pleased. As they say, we will be in touch. Contract closed.

You let the target die, V. Indeed, accidents happen – nothing will change that now. But do you know where the true problem lies? You let me down, V. You were reckless, just as all of my husbands once were. Now they are dead. So long, V.

I have the BD with the Death's Head moth. It's their newest release. I hope it's what you're looking for.

Attached the coordinates for the collect. It's in one of the alleyways off Jig-Jig Street.

When you get there, open the hatch in the wall. The package will be inside. Just try to collect it discreetly. I don't want to compromise a good drop point.

I will be in touch when new work comes in. You will have more chances to show your gratitude.

Gig type: Thievery
Objective: Steal the shard with Emilio Gutierrez's depository receipts
Location: Apartment on Palm St.
Details:

Would you like to hear about my fourth husband? He was very lazy, gullible, and filthy rich. I divorced him as quickly as I could and never made so much money in such a short time. With that said, can I really blame Mrs. Gutierrez for stripping Mr. Gutierrez down to the last enny? Of course not. In fact, I'd like to meet her lawyers.

But enough about Mrs. Gutierrez. Our client happens to be the injured party, Mr. Gutierrez. He lost his car and luxury penthouse, now the poor fool has barely anything to live in because he left his depository receipts in their old apartment (the locks are already changed). You'll have to retrieve them, because our new divorcee isn't going to give them back out of the kindness of her heart.

The penthouse is on the last floor of the building. Don't worry, I'm providing you with elevator access.

For obvious reasons, Mr. Gutierrez is counting on your utmost discretion. If things go quietly, he'll toss in extra.

Perhaps you are not aware, but raising the alarm and discretion are not the same thing. Keep that in mind for the future. I am closing the contract.

Discreet and with finesse – something I cannot say about Mr. Gutierrez's divorce. Marvellous work, V. Closing the contract.

Do not think I haven't noticed your efforts, V. I think the best way to value hard work is to give more work. Who knows, maybe soon you will even receive the most coveted contracts...

V, my dear. The hard work you have invested with me has multiplied your returns. People utter your name with respect. This is an honor, but also a responsibility. Remember that well - I have new contracts from highly-placed clients that do not tolerate forgetfulness.

Well done, my dear, I see that you treat your work seriously. Not only have you earned my respect, but those of more serious clients. I leave the best contracts in your capable hands. Treat them with respect.

I am not happy. That does not bode well... for you.

I do not accept failure. You would be wise to remember that.

My dear, you are becoming more popular by the minute. Your actions have turned even ordinary people's heads. I suppose vendors may treat you differently from now on... do not be surprised to see discounts.

Becoming more well-known, aren't we, V? This is good. More discounts, more products - such is the price of being popular in Night City...

I am starting to grow tired of being asked about you, V. It seems you have become an unlikely star of the district. Vendors will surely offer more products and at lower prices. As they say, do not spend it all in one place.

Excellent, that was the last contract in Westbrook. For the moment I do not foresee any new assignments for you. Treat this window of free time as an opportunity to think about your future. Correct me if I am wrong, but perhaps you do not want to run around the city toting a gun for your entire life. Bear in mind that you are not getting any younger. Time to grow up, hm?

Your transport is already arranged.

Driver is waiting.

I never took you for a coward, V. Go back and finish what you started. I trust you would not wish to disappoint me...?

The requested transport is in position.

Do not continue down this path, my child. I doubt you want to be known in this city as someone who cannot be trusted with the simplest of tasks? It will be better for everyone if you go back and finish everyone off.

V – you already started shooting, I see no reason to stop now. These are bad people, they deserve to die. If you spare them, they will be better prepared for you next time. Do not make this mistake, V. Finish them.

Remember, V - it's unwise to engage in idle time. I am sometimes known to be rather impatient.

I am pleased you are making an effort. People say many things about me, but they cannot say I am ungenerous. You have more jobs waiting for you – good ones. Keep up the good work and I might soon save the best ones for you.

I see you take your work very seriously. I would offer idle words of appreciation, but I have something much better – contracts of the highest quality, reserved specially for you.

My child, things were going so well until you ruined everything. Such mistakes only dampen your credibility. At the very least, I hope you learned a lesson.

You have learned all of Westbrook's secrets and completed all of my contracts, dear. You've made a name for yourself around here. I'd like to honor you by giving you a special weapon. You will find it in your stash. Good work, V.

I rarely admit to my mistakes, but this time I will make an exception. I underestimated your determination – yours and Takemura's. All I ask is that you keep my name entirely out of this affair. Of course, I will return the favor.

The client is dead. Need I add that this contract has suffered the same fate?

Interested in more work, V? Got a client who needs help getting rid of someone. His name is Bill Jablonsky and he will be waiting for you by a car at the corner of Sixth and Brandon.

The money should already be in your account, but I have something else for you too: a personal link. You can pick it up from Cassius Ryder, a ripperdoc who runs a clinic out of Watson.

The personal link also doubles as a tattoo. My treat.

V. In your line of work, one must be quick and punctual. Since you seem to struggle with both, I figured you could use a motorcycle. If you can have only one, let it be the best – the Yaiba Kusanagi. I happen to have one for sale. Buy it and you will not regret it.

Yo, got a Quadra 66 up for sale. Previous owner was a SoCal and 6th Street-4eva type who liked to slam the gas racing the streets at night... till he slammed right into a corpo. Yeeaaah, can't say that ended well for him. But don't worry, the fender and windshield are brand new and the ride's in preem shape - all it needs is a new owner ;)

Hello, V. I have an Arch Nazaré's that is looking for a new owner – practically new. It onced belonged to a corpo who wanted to impress his minions... except he did not have the first clue about handling it. He braked a little too hard and launched himself into the air – skull smacked the pavement so forcefully that not even TT Platinum could save him. Thank God for idiots. So, are you ready to buy?

Yo yo, V. Got some eddies to burn? Maybe, I dunno, you'd consider buying a Caliburn? You heard right – A FUCKING CALIBURN! Beautiful machine, a downright work of art. If I could, I'd make love to this thing. Used to belong to Cytech's CEO, but the gonk sold it cuz apparently, and I quote, "Only poor people drive two-year old cars." Shit, I wish everyone could be poor by that definition. I just hope this Caliburn gets a loving owner, cuz she deserves it. If you're interested, lemme know.

Listen, V. I have a Cortes for sale. It once belonged to some trust-fund kid who got it for his birthday, except instead of driving it around he preferred to stay hooked up to porn BDs all day. Eventually the family disowned him, sold his car, and now here we are. So, you interested? Take a look and give me your answer soon.

"As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared." I have a theory that cars would please the Lord if He returned to our world – in particular, the tuned up Chevillon Thrax 388 Jefferson I have for sale. A car so mighty and majestic it almost makes you want to bow down to it. A great car destined for a great person. The question is, my dear V, are you worthy of it? Do some soul searching, check your balance and get back to me.

I have a Quadra Turbo for sale, parked at the attached coordinates. I suspect it will not stay available for long, since it is a good machine and there is no shortage of buyers. If life has taught me anything, it is to seize an opportunity as soon as it appears, for it might only appear once. You can think about that while you gather the money to pay.

Transfer well received. Note that I do not take refunds.

A new addition. Finally. May it serve you well.

Hello, V. I have a Makigai MaiMai for sale. Aside from sounding like a fruity cocktail, it is a little small – but you, your guns and your groceries will fit right in. What more do you need?

V! I have a great deal for you – a Rayfield Aerondight "Guinevere"! It belonged to the ambassador of Argentina... that is, until the country returned to martial law and the only thing waiting for him there was a noose, so he sold everything he could and fled the city. He didn't try to bargain with me – the sign of a smart man. I too would be smart if I were you and get your cash ready, because this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The world ain't exactly teeming with these beauties. Everyone wants to be unique, stand out, be noticed – I know you do too. The Aerondight can make that happen.

Interested in more work, V? Got a client who needs help getting rid of someone. His name is Bill Jablonsky and he will be waiting for you by a car at the corner of Sixth and Brandon.

I've lost contact with Chang-Hoon. He's not responding to my messages, can't be found anywhere. My intuition says you may have something to do with it. Since you're avoiding any discussion of the matter, that gut feeling must be right...

AV, my dear, an A-list merc who goes by King is in need of help for a particularly risky job. I, of course, thought of you. No contract on my end this time, I’m only the messenger. That being said, I trust you'll honor my reputation. Are you interested?

ANothing in Night City is ever truly free. You know this, V.

AIn rare cases, exceptional individuals might benefit from my favor. This isn't charity. It's an investment.

AIt’s a one-time deal, done solely out of respect for the people involved and what they stand to lose without help. Besides, I expect success here will open more doors for me down the road.

AReserve your questions for King. The less I know about this job the better. Plausible deniability and such.

AThe terrace of BuryGer, a diner outside Night City Prison, that's where you’ll meet with King. Only if you’re interested, of course. I’ll have one of my minions leave a shard about King's crew should you need more convincing.

AWhatever happens next, you will keep my name out of this affair entirely. Am I making myself clear?

AGood.

V, I hear your visit to Night City Prison went well, and that you left an impressive mark. A mark in the form of a smoldering, gaping hole in its walls, to be precise. Bold of you.

"The largest massacre of prison inmates in NUS history." You never do anything in half measures, do you? From what I hear about this job, that also includes your fuck-ups.

Also, rumor has it a twitchy convict named West snapped and slaughtered scores of inmates and guards before being become a flatline themselves. That place sure sounds like the picture of chaos.

ABSomeone always pays the ultimate price, V. Always. Though it's better that it not be the one holding the job's purse strings.

DRather eat bullets and choke on fire than let them shatter my identity

BI imagine only a crew like King's could have survived

DHmm... Yes, that might have been it. Remove their chains, and you are quickly reminded why these people are kept behind bars

DIndeed, there is no better place to slowly be swallowed into obscurity.

So tell me, how did it feel to run with legends?

Well, enjoy the feeling while it lasts. Legends have a habit of dying young.

Good V. Good. That’s promising.

Then you're in the right city. Keep delivering, and the challenges will come.

True, but with these advantages come tradeoffs. More bodies to help also means more bodies to lose. Or to betray.

I'm pleased to see you delivered a strong result and preserved my immaculate reputation. Relationships in business are everything, and you just strengthened mine. Excellent work.

Despite the collateral damage, the job was a success, and my business dealings stand to gain from it.

You don’t want to be the merc who casts shade on my reputation. Fortunately for you, you still remain on my sunny side.

AKing tells me you failed in your task. Is that how you treat your peers, V? Still, I hear King found another to take your place and their jailbreak was a success, though your replacement didn't survive. I see why he requested only those at the top of their game. How disappointing.

AV, King filled me in. What sort of merc leaves a gig half-way through? Didn't expect you to get cold feet. They had to find a solo to break out King's crewmate.

AThat being said, apparently your replacement didn't survive the escape. Perhaps you were wise to trust your intuition.

AIn any case, for the next gigs I toss your way, I expect follow-through. I so dislike disappointment.

AI expect more follow-through on any future gigs I toss your way. Until next time, V.

V, King told me you turned down the job. Seems someone got cold feet.

V, King filled me in. You messed up big-time. Surprisingly unprofessional of you.

That said, apparently your replacement didn't survive the escape. Perhaps dumb luck was on your side.

In case you've forgotten, I don't work with amateurs. Keep that mind for any future gigs I toss your way. Step up your game.