Kapitel 136: Chapter 135
Future chapters at patreon.com/FFAddict.
Additionally, I have many new works readers may be interested in. Go look, if you wish!
Late at night, an obscure street in Kabukicho. Under the street lamps, a scattering of dancers stood, either hugging themselves and kicking their heels, or sizing up passersby while smoking, waiting for business. Parties of young people, laughing and chatting, would pass them by, engrossed in discussions about the latest "braindance" films, amazed by the feats of "Lizzy's" girls, paying no attention to the gazes of street dancers.
The advent of braindance technology, the invention of cyber technologies, had nearly revolutionized the traditional entertainment industry experience. As the most popular form of entertainment in Night City, it was sought after by all social strata. Even high-ranking corporate executives often indulged in braindance, for a high-quality film allowed users to fully experience a scenario, a story, or an extreme peak—a hyperrealistic moment otherwise unattainable in reality.
Braindance had many labels such as "cerebral geyser," "mindf*ck," and "fantasy time," alluding to how it bypassed all the messy steps to directly stimulate the brain's synapses, providing an unprecedented sensory thrill. Despite its potential harm to brain health with excessive use, people relentlessly pursued newer, more intense braindance experiences.
Groups of people would arrive at Lizzy's bar, recognizable from its neon sign, turn at the wrought iron gate into a small square, and enter the establishment. Lizzy's time was now.
"Not a bad look, welcome to Lizzy's gals," teased the Moxie receptionist slightly when she saw a new face.
Tang Yu approached the reception, browsed through the directory with familiarity––all old films he had seen already, leaving him with little interest. These mainstream braindance films were no match for the ones Judy had custom-made for him. Having tasted the best, even the thought of filling the gaps with these lesser experiences seemed insufficient.
However, Lizzy's bar's braindance offerings were interesting because they came in packages; the same film could vary greatly in price depending on the service and client. The most basic braindance package was a first-person perspective, allowing one to experience the film's full sequence according to its progression, with no control over it.
Many who watched this type of braindance would skip straight to the most precious seconds nearing the end, repeating that peak to the point of monotony until today's craving had been satisfied. These experiences often led to a lengthy "sage time," and in times of poor economy, they provided a perfect escape.
The cheapest package in Lizzy's bar cost more than a typical street dancer's one-time service. One would damage their kidney outside, brain inside Lizzy's. The bar's premium braindance packages offered much more novel experiences.
For the premium packages, one could pick and choose among the Lizzy's girls that caught their eye and under their guidance, enter a private room with a set of braindance headsets, and step into a beautiful shared fantasy world. For extra cost, one could even customize the appearance of Lizzy's girl, picking from various looks whether "big sister," "loli," or someone familiar...
Such scenario-based braindance required fine-tuning of the environmental settings to achieve the most realistic effect. Moreover, precise neurological parameter calibration was needed to match the built-in requirements of the braindance. Lack of compatibility could result in catastrophic neural damage.
To ensure safety, scenario-based braindances were confined to a limited environment, easing cognitive load while enhancing visual, auditory, olfactory experiences for the ultimate sensation with minimal cost.
Observing the hesitation of Tang Yu as he browsed the catalogue, the receptionist casually suggested, "If you like something grand, the newly released 'Emerald City' is quite good." "For something subtler, there's the enduring classic, 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.'"
Tang Yu glanced over the service list and asked, "Is the 'Nightmare House' still available?" The receptionist was momentarily taken aback; the film was an old classic but had poor sales due to its extreme content. It seemed rare for anyone to choose such a braindance, particularly with zombie themes.
"Surprisingly, you're aware of that braindance. It hasn't been removed, but since few choose it, it's not listed on the menu," the receptionist shared. "Are you sure you want that one? The premium package comes with a hefty price tag."
Tang Yu hoped that this braindance could help Jackie regain focus on his life, cherishing Misty rather than constantly seeking refuge in Lizzy's. "Two 'Nightmare Houses'," he said. "Just say it's a special recommendation when you send it over." He ordered a single-person perspective for Jackie, preferring it over the premium package which could feel akin to a "mental affair."
The Moxie receptionist found this unusual but arranged it as Tang Yu instructed. After Tang Yu secured the package, he headed into the bar.
Passing through the bead curtain and a gate, he was greeted by the dimly-lit ambiance and the pulsating electronic music. People of all shapes and sizes swayed on the dance floor, while a row of patrons with shiny headsets sat on the circular bench, lost in the world of braindance.
Jackie was sitting with his back to the bar, and upon seeing Tang Yu enter, he waved eagerly and called out, "Hey, here, buddy, come on over." Jackie seemed impatient with excitement.
Sitting beside Jackie at the bar area, Tang Yu asked him jokingly, "What's the matter, didn't you start with a couple of warm-up drinks?"
Jackie, clad in a stand-up collar jacket that accentuated his robust physique, grinned ceaselessly. "I was waiting for you, amigo, you've got 'tired' written all over your face," he said with a chuckle. "We're here at Lizzy's to chill, forget the corporate buzz for a while."
"If I had to choose, I'd rather watch films here and be content," Jackie continued, trying to recall a phrase, "How does Lizzy's famous saying go again?"
As Jackie struggled to remember, the bartender stepped in and finished the quote, "Wanna live, gotta zip."
"That's it, that's the one," Jackie exclaimed, impressed. "A classic quote," he thanked the bartender.
"You're welcome. What can I get you two?" asked the bartender.
Tang Yu indicated for Jackie to choose, with no particular preference. Jackie ordered two signature tequila shots with pomegranate juice, as he enjoyed the kick of spirit mixed with flavor. The bartender served them their drinks, and Jackie eagerly took his glass. He then inquired about the origin of the slogan he had heard of: an audacious tale of how Lizzy had taken down three Tyger Claws singlehandedly with an axe.
The bartender, recognizing Jackie's interest, shared the background of the quote, detailing how Lizzy, then Elizabeth Borden, single-handedly dealt with her assailants, leading to the establishment of Lizzy's bar and the eventual change in management to the Moxes.
Jackie listened somberly and remarked, "By the Almighty, those guys really were evil doers. Thankfully, those scums turned over Lizzy's bar to the Moxes."
Tang Yu, familiar with the history, remained silent. Nine years ago, prior to the Moxes' rise, Kabukicho was under the dominion of the Tyger Claws who preyed unchecked upon the district. It was the 'Lizzy incident' that catalyzed the formation of the Moxes, a sisterhood united against a common foe, ultimately leading to a significant shift in power and the establishment of Lizzy's bar as a bulwark against the Tyger Claws' tyranny.
The friction between the two gangs kept increasing, but as things stand, it was still within the range the Moxes gang could tolerate.
After all, the Lizzie's Bar business was booming, and the gang's self-defense strength had also visibly grown stronger.
However, Lizzie, with no background support, was more like duckweed in water, susceptible to the next big storm.
Jackie raised his glass toward Tang Yu and said in a deep voice, "Come on, brother, let's drink up. We can't let the girls' kindness go to waste, especially leaving this great place Lizzie's, right?"
Tang Yu also raised his glass, indeed agreeing with what Jackie had said; Lizzie's was indeed a good place.
Clink!
Their glasses touched.
"To Lizzie's!"
The two downed half their glasses of tequila in one gulp.
Jackie excitedly rubbed his hands together, his face full of anticipation.
"Tang, did you know, there's this new movie out, Emerald Horizon. Sounds pretty good, wanna give it a shot?"
Tang Yu thought to himself that indeed, the best way for a boy to grow up was probably to get married.
He believed Nightmare House could heal.
Both men got up and walked over to a booth in the corner.
Just as Jackie was about to check the Braindance catalog, a waitress in high heels came over.
She was holding a box containing two black Braindance headsets.
She set the box on the table, then took out the Braindance headset, leaning in to help Jackie put it on.
Jackie, a bit puzzled, asked, "What's happening? I haven't even placed an order and the Braindance is already being served?"
The waitress professionally responded, "This is a special Braindance recommendation just for you, Nightmare House; I believe you'll enjoy it."
Nightmare House?
Jackie was somewhat baffled by the name of the Braindance; it sounded a bit frightening.
He had intended to watch The White Marsh, not some horror Braindance.
"Wasn't Emerald Horizon recommended just now? Why is it Nightmare House all of a sudden?"
The waitress's role was to equip Jackie with the Braindance headset, not to explain its content.
Tang Yu then explained to him, "Emerald Horizon is just mainstream fodder. Give Nightmare House a try first, and we can switch if it doesn't work for you."
Jackie, not yet aware of the seriousness, albeit with some bad premonitions, remembered Lizzie's Bar was known for romance experiences, so they wouldn't play tricks on him.
With the waitress's help, Jackie was soon ready to dive into the Braindance world, to experience Nightmare House specifically recommended for him.
While wearing the black Braindance headset, Jackie looked at Tang Yu and asked, "Aren't you going to try it?"
Seeing Jackie's face, innocent and fearless, Tang Yu held back a laugh and said, "It's okay, you go ahead, I need to take a call."
At that, Jackie didn't press further, thanked the waitress, and followed the process to enter the Braindance, his eyes fixed on the flashing lights, immersing himself in the world of Nightmare House.
After helping Jackie begin his Braindance experience, the waitress prepared to fit Tang Yu with the headset, but he rejected her instantly.
He was well aware of the content of Nightmare House, where the story unfolded with a man trapped in an old mansion under siege by zombies.
Luckily, these zombies lacked teeth, their mouths decayed and mushy like mud.
Unluckily, all these zombies were women on the verge of overwhelming him, as if thirsty to bite him on the spot.
Fortunately, these female zombies were quite attractive, and if one didn't mind, there were unexpected surprises in store.
Absolutely healing.
In the booth, Jackie was experiencing Nightmare House alone, while Tang Yu was sitting aside, calmly observing the inner hall of Lizzie's Bar.
Suddenly, a familiar figure slowly approached the booth.
Tang Yu recognized her at a glance, an old acquaintance.
Evelyn Parker.
She was wearing an elegant mink shawl, purple-red stockings, with a handbag draped over her shoulder, gracefully walking through.
Her intent was clear.
Tang Yu remained seated, waiting for Evelyn Parker to approach.
Although unsure of her intentions, it was clear she recognized him.
A top executive at Arasaka.
Given her life experience, Evelyn Parker could be considered a daring character.
Not from the best background, she worked at Lizzie's for a while, then moved on to Clouds.
Unsatisfied with what Clouds could offer, she quit and started working independently.
With superior skills and a bold gaze, she successfully connected with some of Night City's elite and even managed to ingratiate herself with Arasaka's top brass, gaining access to a luxurious suite at the very top of the Konpeki Plaza.
Even if it was just business, it was better than earning a middleman's margin.
This woman, navigating between the Moxes and the Tyger Claws, was on the fringes of Lizzie's and Clouds – that definitely took some skill.
Evelyn Parker approached Tang Yu's table with a smile, softly asking, "Mr. Tang, may I have a word?"
Tang Yu gestured for her to proceed.
He wasn't surprised that Evelyn could recognize him.
In her social circles, it wasn't hard to meet some higher-ups at Arasaka and learn the company's movements.
Back in the day, Evelyn got close to Ryo Arasaka using her unique opportunities, obtaining information on the relic biochip's whereabouts.
Sitting on the couch, Evelyn snapped her fingers nonchalantly, and soon a waitress from Lizzie's approached with a tray containing two glasses of water.
The waitress placed the two glasses of water on the table and then left.
Evelyn pushed one of the warm glasses toward Tang Yu, smiling lightly, "Boiled water, warm."
Obviously, Evelyn had done her homework on Tang Yu, even knowing his habit of drinking warm water; her preparation was indeed intriguing.
She could do business on her own without a middleman's margin, which in itself was quite a challenge.
After all, businesses in that district either belonged to Lizzie's under the Moxes or Clouds under the Tyger Claws.
Breaking away from these powers to do things on one's own would at least require their tacit approval.
Tang Yu picked up the glass, the water at a just-right temperature, and replied serenely, "Seems you've done some research."
Evelyn confidently smiled, "I like to understand the interests and needs of others before dealing with them. Only then can I provide better personalized services when doing business."
She knew the man before her was Tang Yu, a high-ranking Arasaka executive with high expectations.
Seeing him at Lizzie's Bar was akin to a fish swimming into a trap, she wouldn't let the opportunity slip by.
Evelyn was confident that no normal man could resist her charms.
Tang Yu then solemnly spoke, "Then let's hear it. How do you plan to provide personalized services based on my needs?"
"I can be quite selective, and you might be disappointed if I'm not satisfied."
"Miss Evelyn Parker."
Evelyn was slightly taken aback; she hadn't expected Tang Yu to know her name.
But then again, if she could find out Tang Yu's identity, it was only natural that he, as a high-level executive at Arasaka, would have heard of hers.
Evelyn's smile grew richer, her tone suggestive, "You jest."
"The trivial offerings at the bar surely won't catch your discerning eye."
"Lizzie's boasts the best Braindance technicians in all of Night City, I'm sure you'll be singing praises after the experience."
"A true high-quality Braindance experience, one about the Crystal Palace, is unmatched anywhere else. Interested in giving it a try?"
Crystal Palace?
Tang Yu knew that the Crystal Palace was a space entertainment complex built by Arasaka, intended for the ultra-elites, offering Braindance experiences, a space casino, leisure traveling, and more.
However, its deeper purpose was obscured by Arasaka's ambitions, something inaccessible to Tang Yu at his current position.
Constructed with an isolated subnet, the Crystal Palace's network operated in a closed loop, impenetrable even by the best hackers on the surface, unless one could personally reach the Crystal Palace.
But this Arasaka space fortress, impregnable and tightly secured, was nearly impossible to infiltrate.
Arasaka had long sought control of the space orbit but faced constraints due to the space airline companies, preventing the construction of military-significant space stations.
They settled for the space station Crystal Palace, branded for entertainment.
Arasaka was ready to clash with the orbital airline corporations to gain a voice on the moon base Nahama, leading to the Frankfurt Airport incident where employees died.
To settle the matter, Arthur Jenkins forcibly assassinated multiple high-ranking officers from the space corporations, eventually being scapegoated by Susan Abernathy and dismissed.
And Tang Yu suffered as well, got kicked out of Arasaka, and turned into a street-level cyberpunk.
Now that Evelyn Parker brought up Crystal Palace, this piqued Tang Yu's interest; she really had audacious ambitions.
Even without the relic chip, with Evelyn's daring maneuvers, it would be only a matter of time before she found herself in trouble.
Tang Yu nodded slightly, his voice tinged with amusement, "Sounds quite appealing, don't disappoint me."
Evelyn stood up with a light smile, "You'll see, let's go downstairs; I'm sure you won't be disappointed."
Tang Yu glanced at Jackie, immersed in the Braindance of Nightmare House, his eyebrows twitching slightly as if he was experiencing the most thrilling part.
The two left the booth, rose from their seats, and disappeared through the back door of Lizzie's Bar into the bustling main hall.
Wöchentlicher Energiestatus
-- Power-
Rangliste 
-- Power-
Stein