Dialogue: Run This Town

Mr. Hands

V, in our fair district, are you?

V

Hey, yeah.

Mr. Hands

We should talk. Face to face.

V

1ANova. Heavy Hearts, here I come.

Mr. Hands

1AAnd don't drag your feet. You won't be disappointed.

V

1BCould it be a gig comin' my way?

Mr. Hands

1BFar better. I see a blank page in Night City's chronicle. Your name is on it. The page and I await – at the Heavy Hearts.

V

My, my, aren't we confident today…

Mr. Hands

We should talk. Face to face.

V, time is short. I'll cut straight to the chase. I've a contract, highly lucrative. The client – yours truly.

The Michael Maldonado matter – settle it, then call me, don't delay. Consider it urgent.

Still present, V?

Hands

Ah, at last.

I lacked the time to brew tea. My apologies.

V

1A'S cool, not here for tea. What's so urgent?

Hands

1ANo ordinary job, to be sure. Dogtown's future hangs in the balance.

V

1BFace-to-face again? What's changed?

Hands

1BEverything. And that's what we'll discuss.

Kurt Hansen – a man of many hats. A criminal, dog of war…

To mine eye – an entrepreneur. And business suffocates in a vacuum.

Vultures circle the colonel's corpse already. The enterprise he built must choose a new leader.

We will make certain they choose correctly.

The shard, please, insert it.

V

2ALemme guess – got a successor all lined up, don'tcha.

Hands

2ALieutenant Colonel Bennett. One of Hansen's most loyal. Commands respect, is capable of rallying a strong base.

2AThe logical choice, this gentleman soldier. Alas, he has competition – a man named Jago.

2AHe's starting from a lower rung but has high aspirations. He's already begun seeking outside support – from the Voodoo Boys.

2AYou will meet with Jago. You will convince him to back down.

V

3AOK, I'll handle that.

Hands

3ANo, you won't. But Aguilar will.

V

3AUh, ya lost me.

Hands

3AHansen remained on top because he had the contacts to stay afloat. Most important among them was a Cuban cartel.

3AEnter Aguilar – a merc assassin from Havana. A living legend...

3AEvery time someone in Havana lights a cigar, Aguilar extinguishes a life somewhere around the globe.

3AI'm lucky to have her behavioral imprint on hand. You're lucky to have experience with the tech already.

3ANo, you won't. But Aguilar will.

V

3AUh, ya lost me.

Hands

3AHansen remained on top because he had the contacts to stay afloat. Most important among them was a Cuban cartel.

3AEnter Aguilar – a merc assassin from Havana. A living legend...

3AEvery time someone in Havana lights a cigar, Aguilar extinguishes a life somewhere around the globe.

3AI'm lucky to have his behavioral imprint on hand. You're lucky to have experience with the tech already.

V

3BSorry, Hands. Rather keep my mitts outta politics for a little.

Hands

3BAnd people complain when their ambivalence yields no progress... It seems you wasted a trip.

Hands

4AWait.

4AI'll double your usual rate. And provide support. Are you certain you want to leave?

V

6AYes, Hands. Open the goddamn door.

Hands

6AYour loss, not Dogtown's. I'll find someone else.

V

5ASharp, Hands. Got a keen eye for biz. I'm in. I'll handle it.

V

7AY'know… mm, sure. Changed my mind. I'll take on the gig.

V

8ALemme summarize. Need me to assume Aguilar's identity…

Hands

8AHave a chat with Jago, talk him out of any silly ideas he might have... Child's play.

V

10AMerc assassin, huh? Color me curious. Anything else I oughta know?

Hands

10AReal name – unknown. Body count – unknown. Conservative estimates put it in the dozens... per continent.

10ARumors, perhaps. But rumors often make for crowning arguments in negotiation.

V

12AWhat's Bennett's story?

Hands

12AEx-Marine, took part in Operation Midnight Storm. He never questioned orders, didn't serve for glory or medals. Loyal from start to finish.

V

13AJago not up to snuff? Why?

Hands

13AHe's an accountant, no soldier. Kept Hansen's books for him. V, you don't win hearts by counting numbers.

V

9AOK, all's crystal.

Hands

9AI've prepared a shard with helpful intelligence. Also a weapon – the same Aguilar uses. Help yourself to both.

V

14AMhm...

Hands

14ATime to kick the tires, V. Suit up and take the imprint for a whirl.

Hands

15ADo you feel the difference?

V

16AInteresting piece of iron.

Hands

16ACustom-made. A unique and highly persuasive tool.

V

17AGuessin' changes afoot for BARGHEST, huh? What with Hansen flatlined?

Npc1

17AHmm. Don't envy whoever's fillin' his boots. Man, it'll be a looong road to restorin' order, even in their own ranks.

Npc2

17ATellin' you, man, they gonna implode. And good fuckin' riddance, I say.

V

17BSo, Dogtown – what's the mood like now?

Npc1

17BOn edge. Who knows what'll happen next. Colonel had the 'hood's balls in his iron jaws, but, man, it all worked somehow. Now…?

Npc2

17BNow peeps gotta take care of themselves. 'Parently a problem, that. For some.

Npc1

2ADogtown without the colonel... Can't hardly imagine it…

Npc2

2AOh please, brother, he a common thug. Not even that – not no more. Worm food's worm food.

Npc1

2ATone it down, choomba! Wanna wind up like him?

V

2BUh-huh... And why's it "we" care?

Hands

2BI take the long view of Dogtown's well-being. You care for short-term profit. Should Dogtown drown in blood, neither is achievable.

V

18AMy time's precious, Hands. If this don't work, you'll need to find ten new digits or aim for a rebrand.

Hands

18AHm. Better than expected, V... or rather, Aguilar.

V

18AMy time's precious, Hands. If this don't work, you'll need to find ten new digits or aim for a rebrand.

Hands

18AHm. Better than expected, V... or rather, Aguilar.

V

18BSeriously, Hands? You make me your guinea pig for untested tech? Thought you valued your well-being more than that.

Hands

18BHm. Better than expected, V... or rather, Aguilar.

V

18BSeriously, Hands? Makin' me your guinea pig for untested tech? Thought you valued your well-being more than that.

Hands

18BHm. Better than expected, V... or rather, Aguilar.

You'll make a strong impression on Jago, too. A trusted source tells me he's to meet soon with a delegation of the Dogtown Voodoos. I'll forward the coordinates.

V

Whoah.

Hands

I care not at all for how you handle the gangoons. As you will. I have only one request – Jago withdraws his candidacy.

Once you've shown him reason, call me. And remember, my district's future is riding on this.

V

21ADon't worry, won't disappoint.

Hands

21AThat is the hope. Good luck.

V

21BDogtown's future and yours. Don't fuck me over, Hands.

Hands

21BHah, rehearsing, are you? Close, just a bit lacking. Good luck.

You'll make a strong impression on Jago, too. A trusted source tells me he's to meet soon with a delegation of the Dogtown Voodoos. I'll forward the coordinates.

I care not at all for how you handle the gangoons. As you will. I have only one request – Jago withdraws his candidacy.

Take the shard, V. It doesn't bite, I promise.

Well? How long shall you hold me in suspense?

V

Whoah.

Hands

I care not at all for how you handle the gangoons. As you will. I have only one request – Jago withdraws his candidacy.

V

Whoah.

Hands

You'll make a strong impression on Jago, too. A trusted source tells me he's to meet soon with a delegation of the Dogtown Voodoos. I'll forward the coordinates.

V

1AGotta wait for the man.

Johnny

1AOut in the open...? Ah, want a face-off, do ya? Aguilar, you saucy señorita.

Jago

1AAnd you are...?

V

2AI have a message for you.

Jago

2AWho from?

V

2AFrom my superiors in Havana. Do you remember them?

Jago

2AAguilar... It's you…

V

2AI have a message for you.

Jago

2AWho from?

V

2AFrom my superiors in Havana. Do you remember them?

Jago

2AAguilar... It's you…

V

2BI answer with my own question.

2BDo you know what happens when someone in Havana lights a cigar?

Jago

2BSomewhere in the world... Aguilar takes a life.

V

2BSo they say. Do you know what else they say?

2BThat you have angered the wrong people.

2BI answer with my own question.

2BDo you know what happens when someone in Havana lights a cigar?

Jago

2BSomewhere in the world... Aguilar takes a life.

V

2BSo they say. Do you know what else they say?

2BThat you have angered the wrong people.

1AWe know of your plan to oust Bennett. We know of your new allies.

1AThe Voodoo Boys? Poor choice. My superiors follow Christ, Jago.

Jago

1AI… I never intended any disrespect...

1AWhat happens now?

V

3AThe chain of command – it is a concept you know? If just one link fails, the chain breaks.

3AYou will lay your ambitions to rest. You will resume your place in the chain and hold firm.

3AThe chain of command – it is a concept you know? If just one link fails, the chain breaks.

3AYou will lay your ambitions to rest. You will resume your place in the chain and hold firm.

3BYou will follow in the footsteps of the Voodoo Boys. Disappear to where no one will find you.

3BYou will follow in the footsteps of the Voodoo Boys. Disappear to where no one will find you.

3CI spoke with the Voodoos. They understood their lives are worth more. Now I speak with you and wonder about the value of yours.

Jago

3CAguilar, please… It's not what you think. May I explain at least?

V

4AVery well. But be quick.

Jago

4ABennett is an Arasaka pawn. They courted him until he cracked. Then they waited, they needed the colonel to die.

4AI don't know what they promised him, but I do know what they want – control of Dogtown.

V

5AYou have proof of Bennett's deception, I trust.

Jago

5AKnow where to find it. He goes to the City Center often, Republic Way. The building's a front – occupied by a dummy corp owned by Arasaka.

5AAs to Bennett's biz there? Ask him, press him. You'll see I'm right.

V

5AYou have proof of Bennett's deception, I trust.

Jago

5AKnow where to find it. He goes to the City Center often, Republic Way. The building's a front – occupied by a dummy corp owned by Arasaka.

5AAs to Bennett's biz there? Ask him, press him. You'll see I'm right.

V

5BI see. Now fuck off, run along.

Jago

5BBut… what do--?

V

5BI said run. Before I change my mind.

5BI see. Now fuck off, run along.

Jago

5BBut… what do--?

V

5BI said run. Before I change my mind.

Jago

4APlease pass my gratitude along to your superiors.

4ALet's go.

V

4AVery well. But be quick.

Jago

4ABennett is an Arasaka pawn. They courted him until he cracked. Then they waited, they needed the colonel to die.

4AI don't know what they promised him, but I do know what they want – control of Dogtown.

V

3CI spoke with the Voodoos. They understood their lives are worth more. Now I speak with you and wonder about the value of yours.

3DWould you follow in your coconspirators' footsteps?

Jago

3DNo…! Of course not!

V

3DWould you follow in your coconspirators' footsteps?

Jago

3DNo…! Of course not!

V

3EMy best guess…? You die.

3EMy best guess…? You die.

Jago

1ACharlie!

Jago Bdgrd1

1AThink you're hot shit? Prove it.

V

6ATalk, talk, talk. Wasted time, wasted breath.

Jago

6ASuch a shame... Charlie!

V

6ATalk, talk, talk. Wasted time, wasted breath.

Jago

6ASuch a shame... Charlie!

6AYou... So the legends are true.

6APoint taken... I'll back down.

6ABut there's something you should know. Bennett is Arasaka's pawn. They aim to control Dogtown through him.

V

7AYou have proof of Bennett's deception, I trust.

Jago

7AKnow where to find it. He goes to the City Center often, Republic Way. The building's a front – occupied by a dummy corp owned by Arasaka.

7AAs to Bennett's biz there? Ask him, press him. You'll see I'm right.

V

7AYou have proof of Bennett's deception, I trust.

Jago

7AKnow where to find it. He goes to the City Center often, Republic Way. The building's a front – occupied by a dummy corp owned by Arasaka.

7AAs to Bennett's biz there? Ask him, press him. You'll see I'm right.

V

7BI see. Now fuck off, run along.

Jago

7BBut… what do--?

V

7BI said run. Before I change my mind.

7BI see. Now fuck off, run along.

Jago

7BBut… what do--?

V

7BI said run. Before I change my mind.

Johnny

6APlot thickens... Once they're gone, uncloak 'fore your face melts like scopchoco.

V

8AJust getting started, Johnny.

8B'M used to heat, literal and figurative. Worry about yourself, rockerboy.

Johnny

6AGuess you oughta keep Hands in the loop…

6AOr… we could see what his favorite son's cookin' up with fuckin' Arasaka. After all, Dogtown's future hangs in the balance.

Johnny

6AGuess you oughta keep Hands in the loop…

6AOr… we could see what his favorite son's cookin' up with fuckin' Arasaka. After all, Dogtown's future hangs in the balance.

Jago

6AYou... So the legends are true.

6AOh, shit! No, no, no!

V

1AWe know of your plan to oust Bennett. We know of your new allies.

1AThe Voodoo Boys? Poor choice. My superiors follow Christ, Jago.

Jago

1AI… I never intended any disrespect...

1AWhat happens now?

Jago Bdgrd1

1ASomethin' ain't right, boss.

Johnny

1AThere they are. Gonks got no clue what's comin'. Think I'm gonna shed a tear.

Jago

Hey! I asked you a question!

A-Aguilar…?

V

Gotta wait for the man.

Johnny

Out in the open...? Ah, want a face-off, do ya? Aguilar, you saucy señorita.

Well?

Jago

OK, Charlie. Let's get outta here.

Um, Aguilar…?

Um, Aguilar…?

A-Aguilar…?

V

Gotta wait for the man.

Johnny

Out in the open...? Ah, want a face-off, do ya? Aguilar, you saucy señorita.

V

1AI have good news. We will talk, I will not shed your blood. A very good deal.

V

2AIs it Jago you await? He's not coming. Havana has removed him from the picture.

2AHere, yes. But I have no quarrel with you. What happens next is your choice.

2AIs it Jago you await? He's not coming. Havana has removed him from the picture.

2AHere, yes. But I have no quarrel with you. What happens next is your choice.

1AI have good news. We will talk, I will not shed your blood. A very good deal.

Get the fuck away from here.

Get the fuck away from here.

Well, looks like we botched this one… Sorry, Aguilar.

Well, looks like we botched this one… Sorry, Aguilar.

Probably not a good time to take Aguilar for a walk...

Probably not a good time to take Aguilar for a walk...

Time to go Cuban.

V

Get the fuck away from here.

Get the fuck away from here.

Mr. Hands

V... Have you made progress? Has Jago... reconsidered?

V

Has indeed. Also, Voodoo Boys're outta the equation.

Mr. Hands

Splendid. Have you anything else to add?

V

1AActually, yeah. Jago claims Bennett 'n' Arasaka are fuckin'.

Mr. Hands

1AA man with his balls in a vice makes many interesting sounds.

1AA fixer, however, separates fact from the spewings of a panicked soul. My concern now, not yours. Still, I thank you for telling me.

V

1BYep. Met with Bennett, too. Man's a sock puppet, 'Saka's hand up his ass.

1BDon't worry, I pulled 'im off, ironed him out. For good, I hope.

Mr. Hands

1BAh. It's not something I asked you to do... but I do appreciate it. Bennett is still superior to Jago as a candidate.

V

1CBennett's outta the picture too. Made 'im rethink his deal with 'Saka. He'll back Jago now.

Mr. Hands

1CHe'll what?! I believe I made myself unequivocally clear. Bennett is to become BARGHEST's leader and Dogtown's ruler! Arasaka involvement is not your concern.

1CWhatever soul-searching you might've done, forget it and undo this mess. Elsewise, our contract is void.

V

1D'S all I got.

Mr. Hands

1DRight, then.

V

What now?

Mr. Hands

Time to pay tribute to the fallen. Aguilar will attend Hansen's funeral service and ensure a smooth transfer of power.

V

Uh-huh… Sounds like you expect trouble.

Mr. Hands

Such events can trigger geysers of raw emotion. No two people grieve alike, and rarely rationally.

Ceremony and wake – both at the Black Sapphire. Aguilar should enter without a hitch.

V

Got it.

Mr. Hands

Der König ist tot. Es lebe der König. Viel Glück, V.

Silence is rarely a good sign.

Johnny

Ain't our guy, that. Prolly his huscle. Take 'im out now just in case – save yourself the headache later.

Bennett

Agh…! Enough!

V

2ADo you want the throne? It is mine to give, but to a soldier, not a corporate puppet.

2AIf I see even one Arasaka shadow in Dogtown, I will return and find you. But without my... friendly demeanor. Is that clear?

2ADo you want the throne? It is mine to give, but to a soldier, not a corporate puppet.

2AIf I see even one Arasaka shadow in Dogtown, I will return and find you... but without my friendly demeanor. Is that clear?

2BYes, Bennett, enough... A fool then and a fool now. The only difference – your freshly soiled pants.

2BYou are out. Done. Jago will lead, and you will do nothing but nod, smile and support him. Is that clear?

2BYes, Bennett, enough... A fool then and a fool now. The only difference – your freshly soiled pants.

2BYou are out. Done. Jago will lead, and you will do nothing but nod, smile and support him. Is that clear?

Bennett

Yes, Aguilar… Understood…

V

3APreem work, Aguilar. Time for a breather, though.

3APreem work, Aguilar. Time for a breather, though.

Bennett

4AI need to wait for my people. You needn't wait with me.

Johnny

Tell you what Aguilar'd do. Dump the body stat, then wait for Bennett in the ride, get the jump on 'im.

Bennett

5AWait, who--?

5AOh fuck…! Aguilar?!

5ABut what a grind. Japanese suits have their necktie's tied so fuckin' tight.

5AGordon! Back to Dogtown, c'mon!

V

7AWas it good, your meeting? The one I was not supposed to know about?

7BSo you know now how the Japanese tie their neckties. Do you know the Colombian way?

7BThe Colombians cut open your neck, pull your tongue out through the hole. It sounds complicated, but I've had plenty of practice.

Bennett

5AAguilar, please listen to me. I know what this must look like. This fuckhead, Jago…

V

5AYour accountant.

Bennett

5AMh, he's tryin' to cut me out. Arasaka's promised to have my back.

5AAll they want in exchange is access to our smuggling routes.

V

5ANo, what they seek is control of your smuggling routes. Only a fool would think otherwise.

Bennett

5AI'm out to secure the future. For my organization, for your bosses.

V

8AYou will put Arasaka behind you, Bennett. Why? Because you are in a car with Havana, while Tokyo is somewhere out there.

Bennett

8AThis a geography lesson?! Fuckin' joke!

V

9AOh, Bennett... What little regard you have for your own life.

9AOh, Bennett... What little regard you have for your own life.

Bennett

8AYou won't let it go, is that it? Well, fine! Your legend ends here!

V

8AYou will put Arasaka behind you, Bennett. Why? Because you are in a car with Havana, while Tokyo is somewhere out there.

Bennett

8AThis a geography lesson?! Fuckin' joke!

V

8BAnd if Jago was not a problem? Perhaps I've spoken to him already. Perhaps he has realized the error of his ways.

Bennett

8BA slippery leech, that one…

V

8BI know a lie when I hear one. I know Jago did not lie. He will support you. As will I.

Bennett

8BHeh... Well, now that's a different story. One Cuban in my corner is worth more than ten Arasaka boardrooms.

8BAgreed, we have a deal. I'll forget about the Japanese.

8BOne last question... where the fuck is my driver?

V

10AYou should forget about him, too.

10AYou should forget about him, too.

8BAnd if Jago was not a problem? Perhaps I've spoken to him already. Perhaps he has realized the error of his ways.

Bennett

8BA slippery leech, that one…

V

8BI know a lie when I hear one. I know Jago did not lie. He will support you. As will I.

Bennett

8BHeh... Well, now that's a different story. One Cuban in my corner is worth more than ten Arasaka boardrooms.

V

11AWas it good, your meeting? The one I wasn't supposed to know about?

11BSo you know now how the Japanese tie their neckties. Do you know the Colombian way?

11BThe Colombians cut open your neck, pull your tongue out through the hole. It sounds complicated, but I've had plenty of practice.

Bennett

5AAguilar, please listen to me. I know what this must look like. This fuckhead, Jago…

V

5AYour accountant.

Bennett

5AMh, he's tryin' to cut me out. Arasaka's promised to have my back.

5AAll they want in exchange is access to our smuggling routes.

V

5ANo, what they seek is control of your smuggling routes. Only a fool would think otherwise.

Bennett

5AI'm out to secure the future. For my organization, for your bosses.

5AWait, who--?

5AOh fuck…! Aguilar?!

5AGordon, let's roll.

5AMhm, I think we're on the same page. They agreed to back me – two unmarked tactical units in Dogtown…

Johnny

Body can't up 'n' hide on its own, V.

Tell you what Aguilar'd do. Dump the body stat, then wait for Bennett in the ride, get the jump on 'im.

V

High time Aguilar had a word with Bennett…

Bennett

Gordon, let's roll.

But what a grind. Japanese suits have their necktie's tied so fuckin' tight.

Gordon! Back to Dogtown, c'mon!

Wait, who--?

Oh fuck…! Aguilar?!

A-Aguilar...?! Heh... What're you doing here?

A-Aguilar...?! Heh... What're you doing here?

V

Preem work, Aguilar. Time for a breather, though.

Preem work, Aguilar. Time for a breather, though.

Bennett

Mhm, I think we're on the same page. They agreed to back me – two unmarked tactical units in Dogtown…

But what a grind. Japanese suits have their necktie's tied so fuckin' tight.

Gordon! Back to Dogtown, c'mon!

Wait, who--?

Oh fuck…! Aguilar?!

Mhm, I think we're on the same page. They agreed to back me – two unmarked tactical units in Dogtown…

Gordon, let's roll.

Wait, who--?

Oh fuck…! Aguilar?!

Jago

Aguilar, an honor. For all of us.

V

1ATake me to Bennett.

Jago

1AHe came with extra security... Got a bad feeling.

Bennett

1AAguilar. What a... surprise.

Jago

1AI understand you've met…

V

2AThere is a matter we must discuss.

Bennett

2AYou're dismissed.

V

2AThere is a matter we must discuss.

2BHavana sends its condolences. The news of Colonel Hansen's death shook us all.

Bennett

2BI'm sure the colonel would appreciate your… good will.

2BYou're dismissed.

V

2BHavana sends its condolences. The news of Colonel Hansen's death shook us all.

1AThe lieutenant colonel and I had a pleasant chat. We agree Dogtown needs a leader with a good head on their shoulders. Someone who will keep trouble far from its borders.

1AThat someone is you, Jago. You have our full support.

Bennett

1AWant Dogtown, Jago? Take it. But Terra Cognita is mine. One hundred percent control.

Jago

1AExclusive rights to TC? Have you fucking lost it?

Bennett

1AI can run numbers too. I want what's due to me.

V

3AIt's a fair price. You will pay it.

Jago

3AHansen would say only the weak make concessions.

Bennett

3AKeep the colonel's name out of your mouth!

V

4AAccept his terms. Or will you make me miss my flight?

Jago

4AFine... For the good of Dogtown.

Bennett

4AThat'll be all, Jago.

Jago

4AWait-wait-wait, let's talk!

Bennett

4AWe've talked enough.

4ANo one moves a goddamn inch! Or you join Jago!

Jago Man2

4AYes, sir.

Wake Jago Guard

4ADogtown! Dogtown!

Bennett

4ASee? Proves I was right. Jago reached high but had feet of clay.

V

5AThe die is cast… Colonel.

5AThe die is cast… Colonel.

5AThe die is cast… Colonel.

5AThe die is cast… Colonel.

5BThe king is dead. Long live the king.

5BThe king is dead. Long live the king.

5BThe king is dead. Long live the king.

5BThe king is dead. Long live the king.

Jago

4ALet tempers cool, then take away Bennett's body. We can't have him lyin' there like that.

Bennett

4ALeave the scumbag's corpse there for now. It can serve as a warning.

4ALooks like I'm all you got left. Give Havana my regards.

V

4AControl yourself, Bennett.

Bennett

4AI am in control.

V

4AControl yourself, Bennett.

Bennett

4AI am in control.

V

4AYou bore me, Bennett.

Jago

4AEasy! It's just biz, people! Stand down, put your iron away!

Wake Jago Guard

4ADogtown...! Dogtown...!

Jago

4AAguilar, please relay my sincerest gratitude to Cuba, and accept this retainer towards our future cooperation.

V

6AThe die is cast… Colonel.

6AThe die is cast… Colonel.

6BThe king is dead. Long live the king.

6BThe king is dead. Long live the king.

4AYou bore me, Bennett.

4AAt a funeral, Bennett?

Bennett

4AWe'll need another coffin.

V

4AAt a funeral, Bennett?

Bennett

4AWe'll need another coffin.

V

4AAccept his terms. Or will you make me miss my flight?

Jago

4AFine... For the good of Dogtown.

V

4BYou snip at each other like two crazy chihuahuas. Is this what your colonel would want?

4BJudging from the heartbreak on his face, I expect the dead to rise from the grave and silence you both for good.

4BYou need a strong right hand, Jago. Bennett fits that description, but you can't leave him with nothing.

Jago

4BFine... For the good of Dogtown.

V

4BYou snip at each other like two crazy chihuahuas. Is this what your colonel would want?

4BJudging from the heartbreak on his face, I expect the dead to rise from the grave and silence you both for good.

4BYou need a strong right hand, Jago. Bennett fits that description, but you can't leave him with nothing.

4BYou snip at each other like two crazy chihuahuas. Is this what your colonel would want?

4BWere he still alive, his choice would be swift. Jago to keep his place and rank, the right hand to Lieutenant Colonel Bennett as leader. Am I wrong?

4BAlongside your colonel, in this very coffin, you will bury the hatchet. This is Dogtown's only path forward.

Bennett

4BMhh... That... could work.

V

4BYou snip at each other like two crazy chihuahuas. Is this what your colonel would want?

4BWere he still alive, his choice would be swift. Jago to keep his place and rank, the right hand to Lieutenant Colonel Bennett as leader. Am I wrong?

4BAlongside your colonel, in this very coffin, you will bury the hatchet. This is Dogtown's only path forward.

Jago

3AWe have a deal.

Bennett

3AHope I won't regret it.

V

8AAt last. You have a tendency to complicate the simplest things in Night City.

8AAt last. You have a tendency to complicate the simplest things in Night City.

8AAt last. You have a tendency to complicate the simplest things in Night City.

8AAt last. You have a tendency to complicate the simplest things in Night City.

8BHavana has eyes everywhere. Behave, both of you, all of you, or I'll be back.

8BHavana has eyes everywhere. Behave, both of you, all of you, or I'll be back.

8BHavana has eyes everywhere. Behave, both of you, all of you, or I'll be back.

8BHavana has eyes everywhere. Behave, both of you, all of you, or I'll be back.

V

9ATend to our garden here, Jago. A creative mind is the foundation for fruitful business.

Jago

9AI've got my work cut out for me, but I won't disappoint. Again, thank you.

V

9AHavana may be far, but she has eyes everywhere. Remember this. We'll be in touch.

9AHavana may be far, but she has eyes everywhere. Remember this. We'll be in touch.

9ATend to our garden here, Jago. A creative mind is the foundation for fruitful business.

V

10AMay I call my pilot now? To have the engines warmed and my rum chilled? I do hope I will not hear of any surprises once I am gone.

Bennett

10AGood fortune in biz favors the strong. You know that well, Aguilar.

V

10AIndeed. A philosophy that likewise applies to our arrangement. We'll be in touch.

10AIndeed. A philosophy that likewise applies to our arrangement. We'll be in touch.

10AMay I call my pilot now? To have the engines warmed and my rum chilled? I do hope I will not hear of any surprises once I am gone.

Jago

3AAguilar, please relay my sincerest gratitude to Cuba, and accept this retainer towards our future cooperation.

V

3AIt's a fair price. You will pay it.

Jago

3AHansen would say only the weak make concessions.

Bennett

3AKeep the colonel's name out of your mouth!

V

12ABig baby Bennett wants a new toy? Something to silence his tantrums? Too bad.

12AThe terms cannot change, Bennett.

Bennett

12AThen there is no deal!

V

12ABig baby Bennett wants a new toy? Something to silence his tantrums? Too bad.

12AThe terms cannot change, Bennett.

12BNo, Bennett. If you would unleash hell upon Dogtown, just know this pistol will be the first hound out of it.

Jago

12BI don't think that's necessary.

V

12BI would like us to lay our cards on the table. That is the wild card.

12BDividing the district into two warring factions is out of the question. The strength of Dogtown lies in its unity.

12BOnly my personal opinion, of course. Perhaps if you do not agree, I could… persuade you.

Bennett

12BFuckin'... fine.

V

12BNo, Bennett. If you would unleash hell upon Dogtown, just know this pistol will be the first hound out of it.

Jago

12BI don't think that's necessary.

V

12BI would like us to lay our cards on the table. That is the wild card.

12BDividing the district into two warring factions is out of the question. The strength of Dogtown lies in its unity.

12BOnly my personal opinion, of course. Perhaps if you do not agree, I could, ah… persuade you.

Bennett

12BFuckin'... fine.

V

13BNo, Bennett. If you would unleash hell upon Dogtown, just know this pistol will be the first hound out of it.

Jago

13BI don't think that's necessary.

V

13BI would like us to lay our cards on the table. That is the wild card.

13BI give a finger, you ask for the hand. Alas, I have only an itchy trigger finger left to offer. Our future prosperity depends on a show of your good will.

13BOnly my personal opinion, of course. Perhaps if you do not agree, I could… persuade you.

Bennett

13BFuckin'... fine.

V

13BNo, Bennett. If you would unleash hell upon Dogtown, just know this pistol will be the first hound out of it.

Jago

13BI don't think that's necessary.

V

13BI would like us to lay our cards on the table. That is the wild card.

13BI give a finger, you ask for the hand. Alas, I have only an itchy trigger finger left to offer. Our future prosperity depends on a show of your good will.

13BOnly my personal opinion, of course. Perhaps if you do not agree, I could, ah… persuade you.

Bennett

13BFuckin'... fine.

V

1AThe lieutenant colonel and I had... a pleasant chat. We agree Dogtown needs a leader with a good head on their shoulders. Someone who will keep trouble far from its borders.

1AThat someone is you, Jago. You have our full support.

Bennett

1AWant Dogtown, Jago? Take it. But Terra Cognita is mine. One hundred percent control.

Jago

1AExclusive rights to TC? Have you fucking lost it?

Bennett

1AI can run numbers too. I want what's due to me.

V

1AI met earlier with the lieutenant colonel. We had a lovely conversation, talking of this and that. In the end, we both agreed Dogtown needs a strong leader.

1AThat leader will be Bennett. The people here heed his words. As will you, Jago.

Bennett

1AOh? Until when? Until you leave town and he's free to stab me in the back?

1AI want names, contacts, connections. Your informants in the NCPD. Everyone on your payroll.

Jago

1ARidiculous...

Bennett

1AYou will prove your loyalty to me.

V

1AI met earlier with the lieutenant colonel. We had a lovely conversation, talking of this and that. In the end, we both agreed Dogtown needs a strong leader.

1AThat leader will be Bennett. The people here heed his words. As will you, Jago.

Bennett

1AOh? Until when? Until you leave town and he's free to stab me in the back?

1AI want names, contacts, connections. Your informants in the NCPD. Everyone on your payroll.

Jago

1ARidiculous...

Bennett

1AYou will prove your loyalty to me.

V

1AHavana's will has not wavered. Dogtown needs a strong leader. One who is capable of protecting our shared interests.

1AHavana's will has not wavered. Dogtown needs a strong leader. One who is capable of protecting our shared interests.

Jago

1AThis is Bennett-- ahem, Lieutenant Colonel Bennett.

V

1ATake me to Bennett.

Jago

1AHe came with extra security... Got a bad feeling.

V

1BThis is how you bid your leader farewell? Under the circumstance, I expected more... pomp.

Jago

1B"Pomp"? Well, eh… we did what we could. What felt right.

V

1BThis is how you bid your leader farewell? Under the circumstance, I expected more... pomp.

Jago

1B"Pomp"? Well, eh… we did what we could. What felt right.

Johnny

Dog-eat-dog world, I guess. What's that make Dogtown?

V

A warning to you, Silverhand. One you will heed.

Johnny

Dog-eat-dog world, I guess. What's that make Dogtown?

Wake Visitor

Cuban cartel – here…? Could get interesting…

Jago

Shall we…?

I don't think that's necessary.

V

I would like us to lay our cards on the table. That is the wild card.

Jago

I don't think that's necessary.

V

I would like us to lay our cards on the table. That is the wild card.

Bennett

That'll be all, Jago.

Johnny

The final act – Hansen's wake, enter Aguilar... Shit, V, got me on the edge of my seat.

V

1AGet this show on the road.

V

2AAdiós, Aguilar. It's been real.

2AAdiós, Aguilar. It's been real.

Johnny

Curtain call, take a bow, V. Had our fun, but it's time we sent Aguilar off with a heartfelt "adiós."

Guest

Oh shit… Time to go. Don't ask why.

Doorman

Aguilar, welcome to the Black Sapphire. Hope you, uh, had a pleasant flight.

Doorman

Thank you for coming.

Doorman

You're welcome here any time, Aguilar. We'll always have a table ready.

Guard

So, we know yet? Whose orders to follow, whose boots to shine?

Guard

We'll see. Whoever proves the stronger dog, I guess.

Mrhands

The word is Dogtown has a new alpha…

And that a certain merc went against the better judgment of her fixer... I know you met with Bennett.

V

1AYour Bennett's an apex predator. Gonna make a fine new Hansen.

Mrhands

1AWith a sensible partner at his side, he stands to achieve more than Hansen ever could.

1AMarvelous work, V. Worth every enny and more.

1AJago always belonged under Bennett. Just not necessarily six feet under him… Still, I'm pleased his contacts weren't buried with him.

1AAnd Jago will never challenge again. A shame all his contacts went to the grave with him. Regrettable as oversights go, V.

V

1BJago's got a good head on his shoulders – just the man you need.

Mrhands

1BSo you flatlined Bennett with your own hands. Perhaps you slightly overcommitted to your role?

1BI am not pleased, V.

1BAnd to Bennett Terra Cognita. Kind of you. The problem is, you sliced up a cake that wasn't yours to share.

That'll be all for now. I'll be in touch.

V

2AThings got a little outta hand. Did what I could, though.

Mrhands

2AI understand. In any case, consider the contract closed. You'll receive your fee in short order.

2ADid you, now? When I hire a pro, I expect professionalism. For anything less, I pay less. I trust that's clear.

V

2BWhat happened happened, Hands. Time to live with it.

Mrhands

2BDo you know what else happened, V? I just reduced your cut. I hope you can you live with that.