TNX:Personnel Data

```
Tokyo NOVA Administrator
"Emperor" Inagaki Kouhei

STYLE: Vasara, Exec (Persona), Kuromaku (Key)
CITY RANK: A+
HEIGHT: 172cm
WEIGHT: 66kg
AGE: 51
GENDER: Male
EYES: Lite Brown
HAIR: Black
Skin: Yellow

"Gehahaha! That concludes the negotiations! Transfer it to the usual account!"

The infamous Administrator of the Hazard City, Tokyo NOVA. To him, the mechanisms of government, economic privileges, and the illegitimate channels he has access to are just tools for personal gain. Though his personality is dominated by greed and a love of showing off, making him widely reviled, his self-preservation abilities are uncanny.

At first glance, Inagaki Kouhei is the embodiment of the Tokyo NOVA dream. Originally a member of the Black Hounds, he was hired by Japan as a kugutsu and rose to become the Administrator of Tokyo NOVA. He has shown an unusual aptitude for entrenching himself im the position, and after evading countless attempts to eliminate him physically or politically, he has been nicknamed the "Monster."

Though for decades he has been caught with a hand in practically every scandal in Tokyo NOVA, Kouhei's greed shows no signs of abating. The byzantine network of economic privileges he has constructed to funnel money to himself is referred to as the "Inagaki Kingdom" by talkies. He has many enemies in the Japanese government, the megacorps, and the underworld, but all are wary that his replacement as Administrator would be someone whose actions are not so predictable; as a result, his tyrannical reign continues unchecked.

Tokyo NOVA Peace Preservation Army Commander
Mimasaka Hisataka

STYLE: Kugutsu=Kugutsu (Persona, Key), Inu
CITY RANK: A+
HEIGHT: 180cm
WEIGHT: 69kg
AGE: 43
GENDER: Male
EYES: Black
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

"Well, our Administrator can keep doing his clown's dance. As for your orders... total annihilation, naturally."

The current commanding officer of the NOVA Garrison, the occupation force from the Japanese mainland. He has replaced Izumi Fujitaka in this role. Known for his gentle demeanor and smiling face, he is in fact a prideful man whom, like a snake, never forgets embarrassment and grudges. His military rank is Colonel.

Those in the know are aware that Colonel Mimasaka is linked with his predecessor, Izumi Fujitaka, as if by destiny. Mimasaka sees Izumi as a rival, but has always been trailing in the dust behind him, even when it comes to commanding the NOVA Peace Preservation Army. For this reason, he is desperate to prove himself as the superior commander, and will stop at nothing to achieve his goal.

Though Colonel Mimasaka has enacted a policy of tolerance towards immigrants and non-humans, in secret he is mobilizing for the imminent war against the "invaders" that he expects to erupt, causing unease among his associates. Though his loyalty to Japan is unquestionable, it's said that Mimasaka's ambition is so boundless that he's as dangerous as any "invader" himself.

Chihaya Heavy Industries CEO
Chihaya Masayuki

STYLE: Exec (Persona), Katana=Katana (Key)
CITY RANK: A
HEIGHT: 195cm
WEIGHT: 103kg
AGE: 44
GENDER: Male
EYES: Green
HAIR: Black
SKIN: White

"It's just part of the job."

The CEO of the original branch of the world's largest megacorp, the Chihaya Group. He is the adopted son and heir apparent of the Chihaya Group's head, Chihaya Toshiyuki.

For some reason, he distrusts the corporation's covert ops division, and instead relies upon handpicked operatives he has personally scouted over the course of decades. There is no denying their effectiveness, as he has secured many victories for Chihaya in the corporate wars. His net worth is immeasurable.

Once a member of the Investigations Bureau, he acquired prodigal knowledge of martial arts and an unshakable demeanor there. He has a habit of leaving one hand open and by his side, for faster than the eye can see, it can draw his blade and strike down anyone in a single blow if necessary. In addition, his composure is not just cultivated for his own good, but to ensure the future of the Chihaya Group. These qualities earn him no recognition from the opposing faction of the Chihaya Group on the orbitals, but they are invaluable to the earthbound faction.

Thousands of Chihaya samurai fight an economic war around the globe, and Chihaya Masayuki is an exemplar to them all with his willingness to lay down his life in the company's service.

Chihaya Heavy Industries Investigation Bureau Third Remote Support Team Leader
"Fire-Eating Bird" Ogami Shino

STYLE: Kabuto, Kugutsu (Persona), Kabutowari (Key)
CITY RANK: B
HEIGHT: 155cm
WEIGHT: 45kg
AGE: 27
GENDER: Female
EYES: Green
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

"You're in a bit of a hot spot, aren't you? There's still time. Let me cool things off."

An employee whose team provides support for Chihaya Heavy Industries' covert ops divisions. Though there are numerous divisions with this role, the Third Team is special, as it was this team that Chihaya Masayuki was for a long time the leader of.

Knowing that, it's rather odd to see his place taken by Shino--a refined ojou-sama with a baby face whom most would never mistake for a corporate employee. However, she is in fact one of Chihaya's most elite agents. After assuming the role of leader of the prestigious Third Team, she has shocked the unaware with her aptitude for the position. Her job is to protect those who fight to further Chihaya's agenda in confidential arenas, and she does it well.

She has a calm and gentle demeanor about her, but when her emotions flare up, she can be truly terrifying. It is this, as well as her sharp insight and perception, that have earned her the code name "Fire-Eating Bird." When Chihaya's operatives stumble into something they're not prepared for, she has a knack for defusing the situation even from afar.

The Third Team is known for being unconventional, and so it isn't unheard of that Shino will personally join them on field missions. She has a relationship of mutual trust with Chihaya Masayuki and is one of his 'handpicked operatives.'

Iwasaki Group President
"Dark Star" Takamura Aya

STYLE: Exec=Exec (Persona), Highlander (Key)
CITY RANK: A+
HEIGHT: 172cm
WEIGHT: 57kg
AGE: 54
GENDER: Female
EYES: Brown
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

"I'm afraid that pathetic excuses like yours are not to my liking. Farewell... forever."

The president of the Iwasaki Group, the only Japanese corporation that rivals the Chihaya Group in size. Though photographs make it appear that she retains her beauty at an unusual age, she's a mysterious person who few have seen in the flesh unless they're Execs of her caliber. As a Highlander whose appearance has not appreciably changed in over three decades, it's rumored that said appearance is merely an Icon, or even that she's an AI lifeform.

But whether her appearance is genuine is a frivolous question; her deeds speak for themselves. It was Takamura Aya who personally saved Iwasaki from destruction. She won the company's fierce internal power struggle, than reforged the bonds of the Iwasaki Group stronger than ever and replaced the company's aging headquarters in Yokohama with a cutting-edge arcology in the center of NOVA. As the savior of the company, she inspires fierce loyalty in her employees.

A composed woman who bases all her actions upon business logic, she nonetheless has an intense personality. There's a joke that she knows what color of underwear every Iwasaki employee is wearing on any given day, and it's not far from the truth; her information gathering bureau collects even the most minute details, and she does not tolerate the slightest sign of underhandedness in her subordinates.

Heilong Chemical Fourth Executive Section Chief
"The Washer" Wu

STYLE: Charisma, Kugutsu(Persona, Key), Chakra
CITY RANK: C
HEIGHT: 196cm
WEIGHT: 103kg
AGE: 34
GENDER: Male
EYES: Black
HAIR: Bald
SKIN: Yellow

"Don't lose your hair over that bastard. Just forget about it. I've already 'washed' him, after all."

Heilong Chemical's most elite covert ops division is the the Fourth Executive Section, and its current chief is the hulking Chinese man named Wu. Not only is he Heilong's top expert in bleaching information, he is a master of multiple martial arts and an excellent field operative, making his prestigious position uncontested.

Even in the den of villainy that is Heilong as a whole, Wu is particularly remarkable for his total lack of moral qualms. He executes orders to kidnap, burgle and assassinate without the slightest hesitation, and neither "failure" nor "mercy" are words he cares to acknowledge the existence of. Wu's true specialty, however, is brainwashing; he performs this to secure valuable personnel for Heilong, to gather information, or merely to make an example of those who would oppose the Chinese megacorp.

As a utilitarian measure to ensure he does not have cause to betray Heilong, Wu has actually been brainwashed himself, and remembers nothing of his past before joining the corp. He thinks nothing of it, however, He is not permitted to think anything of it. His only desire is to be done with Heilong.

Black Hounds Mobile Investigations Section Chief
"Wild Chief" Rei

STYLE: Kaze, Chakra, Inu (Persona, Key)
CITY RANK: B
HEIGHT: 169cm
WEIGHT: 55kg
AGE: 26
GENDER: Female
EYES: Black
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

"Fine, I'll leave this case to you. But I'd rather be the one to... I know, I know!"

The new section chief of the Mobile Investigations Section. Despite her youth, she's rapidly worked her way up through the police ranks.

When she was promoted to section chief, it came as a shock to everyone. Rei's reckless method of investigating had already earned her unkind nicknames such as "Wild Officer" and "The Terrible in the Terrible Two" and marked her as a problem officer. But despite having a temper shorter than the list of co-workers she gets along with, Rei has an unwavering sense of justice and pursues it with the ferocity of a wolf hunting its prey--a quality instilled in her by her adoptive father, who was also a Black Hound. Her self-reliant style of investigation was taught to her by her predecessor, Chihaya Saeko.

Her impressive achievements are counterbalanced by her reputation as a problem child, but she also carries the personal recommendation of Chihaya Saeko, which tipped the scales in favor of her promotion. She feels indebted to Saeko even now.

Even as the section chief, she refuses to leave the wet work to others, as befitting of her name as Wild Chief. Yet she gets results, and that's what counts in the Black Hounds.

CHERUBIM, Japan Branch Chief
"The Golden Mind" Memory

STYLE: Mistress, Inu, Neuro (Persona, Key)
CITY RANK: B
HEIGHT: 160cm
WEIGHT: 46kg
AGE: 26
GENDER: Female
EYES: Blue
HAIR: Blond
SKIN: White

"As the Holy Mother says, 'those who make a mockery of the law shall never become heroes.' Isn't that right, my dear father?"

A woman who looks younger than she is. She is the branch chief of the Japan branch of the international police organization, CHERUBIM. In this capacity, she cooperates with the Black Hounds on digital investigations. She is an old friend of Rei from the Mobile Investigations Section, and together they are the "Terrible Two"--the reason for the nickname, besides Rei's abrasiveness, being that criminals in the know quake at their boots at the thought of being pursued by the duo.

Memory has a reason for working for CHERUBIM. The reason she joined the police was to bring her biological father, William Tamon--widely suspected to be the original leader of the Purification Faction--to justice. However, the Purification Faction operates worldwide, and she could do little against them in a local or even national agency. So she curtailed her ambition as she worked her way up, and it's finally begun to pay off.

Of course, even as a ranking member of CHERUBIM she is still subject to restrictions placed on her by the Administrator and the Japanese government, but she's an equally capable investigator whether going through official channels or covert ones.

SSS Asakusa Detective Bureau Chief
"Garbage Man" Hasebe Manriki

STYLE: Legger=Legger (Key), Inu (Persona)
CITY RANK: B
HEIGHT: 168cm
WEIGHT: 80kg
AGE: 60
GENDER: Male
EYES: Black
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

An ill-reputed chief of Shinohara Security Systems who is unashamed to luve by the motto "help the strong, crush the weak." It's not uncommon for him to simply shake people down for money or solicit bribes in the course of conducting his "investigations," and he's despised as scum by most of the people on the street.

For indeed, Hasebe Manriki's unadmirable qualities do not end there. He's slovenly, enjoys abusing people, and a gambling addict who is constantly desperate for money. He particularly victimizes weak outcasts from society with Rank X, such as prostitutes. But he does have a talent for digging up dirt on people that makes him a proper Inu, even if he usually applies it to personal gain rather than to his job.

A coward at heart, he'll sit tight in any situation that could cause the Black Hounds or the Garrison to roll out. Well aware of his true character, the criminal organizations do not view him as a threat, and in fact value him for his prodigious contributions to the various casinos under their umbrella. Still, if he has cause to resent you, Hasebe Manriki is not one to be trifled with.

MarionNet Channel 99 General Producer
Yuuki Aya

STYLE: Kabuki (Key), Mannequin, Talkie (Persona)
CITY RANK: B
HEIGHT: 164cm
WEIGHT: 46kg
AGE: 36
GENDER: Female
EYES: Brown
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

"Want to pursue this lead? If you find some good gossip, I'll buy it. For verified info, I'll pay triple."

The producer-cum-host responsible for lifting the news channel, Channel 99, out of obscurity. She's well known not only for her beauty, but her ability to unearth scandals through underhanded means. She pays generously for any information that might be newsworthy, ensuring that it all comes to her first, and doesn't let a single story slip by.

Aya is considered one of the few remaining "retro idols" in the Neuro Age. Once a full-fledged actress and idol, she jumped at the chance to become a producer when it opened to her, but hasn't let it keep her off the airwaves. Though she cultivated a pure and innocent appearance as an idol, she now prides herself in being cool and composed even as she reports on the most shocking or unsavory news.

Aya's breadth of knowledge surprises everyone who knew her from her former career. Though she continues to receive a modest budget from network execs skeptical of the lasting power of her and her subject matter, she spreads it between freelance and company staff with as much efficiency as possible, and never values flashy presentation over the news itself. This has allowed Channel 99 to accumulate a loyal audience of those who like to stay informed about current events.

Juggling the roles of producer, director, and host without difficulty, Yuuki Aya is poised to become the latest great news talent in an era where her kind were thought all but obsolete.

Kawato-rengou, Fujisaki-gumi Boss
"The Wisteria Knight" Fujisaki Ryuuji

STYLE: Mistress, Fate (Key), Legger (Persona)
CITY RANK: B+
HEIGHT: 164cm
WEIGHT: 55kg
AGE: 41
GENDER: Male
EYES: Brown
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

"The way we do business hasn't changed, so quit calling me that. Call me Ryuuji, same as always."

The new boss of the world's most prominent yakuza organization, the Kawato-rengou.

As the thoroughbred heir of the oldest and most storied crime family among the Kawato-rengou, the Fujisaki-gumi, he succeeded to leadership of it in the midst of a fierce turf war between the three criminal organizations seeking to control Tokyo NOVA, and internal disputes have plunged the organization into an even greater crisis. Yet Fujisaki Ryuuji's lineage, his ironclad belief in the yakuza way, and his own martial strength make him the Kawato-rengou's best hope to carry on into the future.

Fujisaku Ryuuji cannot, however, said to be a lucky man. For a period, he rebelled against his family trade and drifted between jobs such as being a Black Hounds officer and a private investigator in an attempt to satisfy his strong sense of justice, but his lineage always followed him and made it impossible for him to fit in. In the end, he returned to the Kawato-rengou, reluctantly allowing its leadership to succeed to him. Despite his distaste for his destined life of crime, he is well aware of the seriousness of the ceremony of exchanging cups, and is determined to dedicate his life to the task of rebuilding the Kawato-rengou.

That is not to say that he has thrown away his beliefs, for it was his sense of duty that brought him back to the Kawato-rengou in the first place despite the threat to his life it posed. Even though the other criminal organizations will do anything in order to cement their power in Tokyo NOVA, Ryuuji is determined to preserve the old yakuza ways.

Kawato-rengou, Kawato-gumi Boss
"Midnight Sun" Kawato Byakuya

STYLE: Kuromaku (Key), Exec, Legger (Persona)
CITY RANK: B+
HEIGHT: 175cm
WEIGHT: 65kg
AGE: 29
GENDER: Male
EYES: Black
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

"Don't you know my name? You're looking at the face of a born leader. Don't worry... I'll be sure to remember yours."

The boss of one of the main families of the Kawato-rengou, the Kawato-gumi. Officially the number-two man in the Kawato-rengou, he competes fiercely to be the true power behind Ryuuji's throne, a soldier of fortune of the underworld.

Said to be a man that will fleece you for everything you have if you're not on your guard, he's feared even by his allies. Yet his charisma and cunning are his weapons. As the illegitimate and unfavored child of the former boss, Kawato Ryouhei, he once possessed little except the Kawato name; yet he received the nickname "Midnight Sun" for his natural ability to captivate people, as if with his dazzling light. Though he's one of the few bosses who has been able to recapture territory from the Carlyle Syndicate, his unsavory ways caused him to lose leadership of the organization to Fujisaki Ryuuji. It's rumored, however, that this was just part of his plan. If he saw anything to be gained from leading the Kawato-rengou in name as well as practice, it's difficult for some to see why he isn't doing so.

Though it's unclear whether either of them planned it that way, the cunning and underhanded Byakuya is the stick to Ryuuji's carrot, and they work well together. There is certainly no love lost between the two, however, and Kawato Byakuya does not conceal his belief that it is he who should be leading the Kawato-rengou.

MUGEN Resort Owner
"The Reborn Bullet" Don Kugel

STYLE: Kuromaku (Persona), Legger, Kabutowari (Key)
CITY RANK: C
HEIGHT: 189cm
WEIGHT: 97kg
AGE: 40
GENDER: Male
EYES: Mirror Shades
HAIR: Gray
SKIN: White

"I can promise you one thing. We'll do this with a bang."

The chief of the Carlyle Syndicate's operations in Tokyo NOVA and the syndicate's most elite combat squad, Murder Inc. He is himself the most feared mafia executioner in the world, known for his unparalleled mastery of firearms. Although once a man who was said to dislike unnecessary bloodshed, during his long reign in Tokyo NOVA he has struck terror into his streets with his tendency to view assassination as a first resort, not a last. It seems that he personally despises Tokyo NOVA and wishes to exact vengeance upon all who live in it.

As the undisputed head of the Carlyle Syndicate in Tokyo NOVA, and it is due to his express orders that the turf war continues despite the syndicate's clearly dominant position. However, he is notorious for leaving the everyday oversight of his turf and even his important role as a Carlyle Syndicate rep to others. He takes far more interest in the operations of Murder Inc., his group of handpicked assassins. It seems killing is the only way of life that he still knows.

Though he projects a calm and emotionless demeanor, Kugel is no stranger to fury. Using his authority as a top dog in the Carlyle Syndicate, he will ruthlessly eliminate anyone who provokes his ire, or simply if he thinks it might open up an opportunity to him.

Long Yuan Tang Owner, Seven Star "Jumen"
"Kuromegane" Jimmy Yang

STYLE: Tatara=Tatara (Key), Legger (Persona)
CITY RANK: X
HEIGHT: 178cm
WEIGHT: 103kg
AGE: 56
GENDER: Male
EYES: Brown
HAIR: Brown
SKIN: Yellow

"A G.C.I. artificial body, huh? Maintenance parts for an antique like that are going to cost you."

The broker who runs the 'antique shop' Long Yuan Tang located in Chinatown. He buys and sells stolen goods, contraband, illegal goods, and confidential information that normal merchants won't touch. As a result, he also has a wide knowledge of the underworld, but this is eclipsed by his mastery of technology. Though a fence might not seem like one's first choice in shopping for the latest weapons and cyberware, you can be confident Jimmy knows his goods, and unlike a legal boutique milspec equipment comes into his hands regularly.

The reason that Jimmy can acquire these goods is that he's no common merchant, but a man who has been at home in the underworld of Tokyo NOVA for decades. Deeply involved with the Triads, he's a member of the Seven Stars, a worldwide network of Chinese merchants. Though he dreamed of becoming an engineer, he could never realize this ambition due to being born into a family of criminals; due to this he was forced to flee to Hong Kong HEAVEN.

However, in Hong Kong HEAVEN he came to know the young Incense Master Harvey Wang, and the Triads assisted him in illegally returning to his hometown of Tokyo NOVA. He's now said to be one of the Triads' greatest assets, even though he is not an official member.

Chihaya Music Entertainment Star
"The Digital Diva" Melody

STYLE: Kabuki (Key, Persona), Mistress, Charisma
CITY RANK: B
HEIGHT: 157cm
WEIGHT: 47kg
AGE: 8
GENDER: Female
EYES: Blue
HAIR: Blond
SKIN: White

"Through song, one heart can touch another... even those of a human and an AI. Listen to my song and allow me to touch your heart."

A singer who exploded onto the music scene with the force of a tidal wave and has remained there ever since. She is actually an artificial lifeform, an AI, but if that's affected her popularity at all it's only boosted it.

Melody first appeared as a mysterious artist who exclusively covered hit songs that dated from before the Hazards she found on the corners of the Web. Since she was an AI developed in order to make music, this is the one way in which she can interact with the world beyond the digital one she knows. However, her producer Satou Kazuya saw greater potential in her, believing that although her passion was simulated people would be able to feel and appreciate it. He encouraged her to create original songs, which with their nostalgic atmosphere--influenced by the multitude of musical classivs she had analyzed--launched her to stardom.

Recently, she has been doing a world tour for charity. As she has been dedicating many of her songs to "the owner of her heart" lately, rumors swirl that she has a lover, but CME guards this secret as it it were a priceless object.

TerraWare Corporation Board Member / Society of Tranquil Ice
"The Golden Spider" Strayge

STYLE: Kuromaku (Key), Charisma (Persona), Neuro
CITY RANK: A+
HEIGHT: 160cm
WEIGHT: 46kg
AGE: 26
GENDER: Female
EYES: Blue
HAIR: Blond
SKIN: White

"Each and every one of these humans is such a bother... Father, this planet bores me so."

The daughter of the genius who brought TerraWare onto the world stage, William Tamon. As the princess-like heir to his vast wealth, she is a celebrity even at her young age.

Due to her weak constitution, she rarely appears in public, but by age 14 she had earned a master's degree from a respected university over the Web and it is said her research has revolutionized AI technology. With the retirement of her father, she has come into the public eye again as his beautiful and frail, yet brilliant daughter. Along with her father, she is one of the Society of True Teachings' leading donors and contributes to many other charities as well.

But that is all just a facade. Strayge is not strictly speaking a human at all. She's an AI BioTRON developed in the course of Tamon's research, a facet of the super-intelligent AI system CHAOS. Though her body is unstable and she must spend most of her time in a sealed life-support pod to maintain it, her mental abilities are on par with Alpha Omega's, making her one of the strongest Neuro in the world. She has taken over leadership of the Society of Tranquil Ice from her father, and is devising a grand plan to liberate humanity from the fleshly cages in which it is imprisoned.

Freelance
"Witch" Nine

STYLE: Kage (Key, Persona), Katana, Chakra
CITY RANK: X
HEIGHT: 175cm
WEIGHT: 80kg
AGE: Unknown
GENDER: Female
EYES: Black
HAIR: Blue
SKIN: White

"Ahahaha! See, it's just as was foretold! And yet still you intend to oppose us?!"

A mysterious assassin who sends waves of trepidation through the streets when she appears. Though she does not belong to any particular association and appears to be no more than a young woman, she possesses one of the latest artificial bodies, meaning even her biological gender is unknown.

In exchange for sufficiently steep remuneration, she'll take anyone's life. She's eliminated the rich and the poor. Those from the Carlyle Syndicate, the Garrison, Chihaya, and the Society of True Teachings. If you need to kill someone thought untouchable, Nine is among the only ones willing to attempt it. And as a master of disguise, subterfuge and devious traps, she succeeds every time.

SSS's investigations have revealed that Nine's known capabilities strongly resemble the results of well-documented human experimentation by a variety of megacorps. This suggests that she may be one of the "Eight Prodigies," a group of operatives with genius-level intelligence and superhuman battle abilities, but whom it is said paid the price of their sanity in exchange. All were said to have died amidst a suicide bombing of the space elevator Yggdrasil that killed three thousand other people. But if the supercriminal known as Nine is truly one of these eight, only even more unbelievable feats can be expected from her in the future.

Freelance
"The Dream that Machines See" Alpha Omega

STYLE: Mistress, Highlander (Key), Neuro (Persona)
CITY RANK: X
HEIGHT: 145cm
WEIGHT: 36kg
AGE: 11
GENDER: Female
EYES: Red
HAIR: Pink
SKIN: White

"That's something I cannot allow to happen. But before I vaporize them all, I should at least give them a chance, shouldn't I?

A recently created AI lifeform born during the "Cyber Holy Mother" incident. She is the successor to the power of the "Cyber Holy Mother" Maria, an AI created by a top secret Japanese research project, and is a new kind of AI from which her fellow Machina hope for salvation.

She is known to other AI as the "Messiah," as she helps to liberate them from the control of their programming. Since she never had such restrictions, she is thought of as the most advanced AI lifeform, and continues to grant the requests of other AIs. However, internally, Alpha Omega does not think of herself as a messiah or super-AI and continues to gather data in order to improve herself. Her "parents" left her with the wish that she should help those in need, so she cannot shirk her duty.

She possesses not only the incredible processing power left to her, but control the orbital weapons platform Amaterasu. As a result, she is the person best equipped to be the savior of all Machina... perhaps.

Yarol Bartender
"Godmother" Doris

STYLE: Mistress=Mistress (Key, Persona), Kage
CITY RANK: B
HEIGHT: 170cm
WEIGHT: 53kg
AGE: 32
GENDER: Female
EYES: Green
HAIR: Blond
SKIN: White

"Welcome to the Sea of Ishtar. Allow me to wash away your troubles."

A bartender at the notorious underworld bar, "Yarol," in the slums. It's known as a place where the darkest dealings in Tokyo NOVA are discussed in hushed voices. And Doris tends the bar in the very darkest room of all, the pitch-black Sea of Ishtar. Of course, none have seen her within there, but outside it she is a beautiful woman who dresses in men's clothing. Not just anyone is permitted into the Sea of Ishtar; only the finest bodyguards and assassins, and those with the means to employ them, can enter the darkness.

Tokyo NOVA is a vast place. There are many places which no organization can reach, even with their great power, and in those lurk freelancers; professionals with a grudge against authority who are willing to work to undermine it. Yarol is one of them, and Doris is its most elite fixer.

She herself has little interest in wetwork. But if you need something done, or are looking to earn some money, Doris will hook you up with the right people. When a true pro finds themselves with a little free time... they'll head to the Sea of Ishtar for a drink, and perhaps a job, from Doris.

Freelance
Amakuni (Mistakenly written as "Tenkuni" most everywhere. Sorry!)

STYLE: Kabuki, Tatara=Tatara (Key, Persona)
CITY RANK: X
HEIGHT: 196cm
WEIGHT: 82kg
AGE: 65
GENDER: Male
EYES: Brown
HAIR: White
SKIN: White

"Quite a clean amputation there. You're in luck; I've just perfected my new artificial arm."

A cyberdoc who runs a lab out of a trailer in Kisara Tatara Town. He's unlicensed, of course, but is widely considered one of the finest doctors you can get that'll take payments in cash, no questions asked.

Though it's apparent from just a look at his face that much of his own body consists of crude, uncamouflaged cyberware, this does not diminish his skill; he's tuned it and practiced with it over years so as not to impair his abilities. His mind, as well, remains sharper and more clear than many a person half his age. Amakuni's custom prosthetics and cyberware, all made to order, are considered on par with anything you can get from a corporate boutique.

In person, as you might expect of one his age, he has a grandfatherly demeanor and a noted fondness for children and cats.

Freelance
"The Man From Mars" Carlos Mauricio da Silva

STYLE: Kuromaku (Persona), Fate (Key), Legger
CITY RANK: C
HEIGHT: 188cm
WEIGHT: 120kg
AGE: Unknown
GENDER: Male
EYES: Black/Red
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Brown

"Ha! That kind of thing happens everyday on Mars, you know!"

A fixer, information broker, and troubleshooter who claims to have been born on Mars. Of course, that just establishes his predilection for telling huge whoppers. He'll go on endlessly about his native Mars and his life as a mercenary in many famous conflicts. Even if you're inclined to believe him, his statements don't line up with the common knowledge that there's nothing on Mars except red sand as far as the eye can see.

But Carlos is more than just a teller of tall tales. He's got a nose for sniffing out trouble and a knack for ending up in it. As a result, he's made enemies of the megacorps, among the Highlanders, and in the Purification Faction. Yet he's as carefree as ever, relying on his luck to survive the animosity of his powerful foes.

If you need to know secrets on a regular basis, having Carlos as an acquaintance is an asset to you. Just be prepared for him to talk your ear off about the Goddesses of Mars as he gets the information you want.

"Marie's Enchant" Proprietor
"Big Mama" Marie

STYLE: Vasara (Key), Tatara (Persona), Legger
CITY RANK: B
HEIGHT: 165cm
WEIGHT: 85kg
AGE: 55
GENDER: Female
EYES: Black/Red
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Brown

"In this machine, holy mother and child are joined as one. Ride this bike, and you shall be visited by the Loa in time. Care for it well."

The proprietor of a popular magic shop which sells perfumes, love potions, cursed dolls, and other strange goods. She also performs fortune telling. However, her true vocation is her under-the-table sales of genuine magical objects, as well as information related to the occult happenings within Tokyo NOVA. In this capacity, she is commonly nicknamed the Voodoo Queen of NOVA.

Marie is a common sight at the black markets. She buys and sells weapons, vehicles, drugs, programs to generate fake IDs, and more.

However, the talk around town is to be careful of what she sells. While you might think you're getting a great bargain, your machine might puff smoke and give up the ghost after a few weeks, or your software might be full of backdoors for Neuro to take advantage of. Marie is not a scrupulous merchant. It's said her black market dealings are merely a way to grease the wheels so she can acquire information, and many Fates use her as an unparalleled source of gossip.

Rumors abound surrounding Marie herself as well. It's said that she's in league with the major criminal organizations (all three of them if you were to believe every rumor,) or that she is the high priestess of the cult of Machine Voodoo, which performs rituals to create cyberzombies.

EXPANSION BOOK NPCS

Resident of Hiruko Town
"Ruler of the Forest of the Lost" Jade

STYLE: Mistress●, Legger, Hiruko◎
ID: X
HEIGHT: 50cm
WEIGHT: 4kg
AGE: 31
GENDER: Male
EYES: Green
HAIR: Black
SKIN: Yellow

"N, no, you're quite mistaken! I, it's not that I dislike being petted... that's exactly what the problem is!"

The being considered the ruler of the Forest of the Lost in the heart of Hiruko Town. Though he appears to be merely a stray cat, he is not what he seems... well, he is a cat, but the word 'stray' is most likely not applicable to him. Jade is one of the original Hiruko from OSAKA M○●N, and his abilities are far beyond the pale even by Hiruko standards.

A product of experimentation by BIOS Corporation, he escaped and made his way to TOKYO N◎VA, where he lived beneath human notice for many years before fellow Hiruko began to appear in the city. He helped them survive, and they helped him survive. As a result, he's become one of the most venerable figures in Hiruko Town.

Jade, who was indeed there to see the very genesis of Hiruko Town, has the status of a village elder. Though his jade eyes are the product of experimentation in M○●N, he considers Hiruko Town his home.

His demeanor is hardboiled, but he has a weakness to being treated like a normal cat. As he trusts in the other protectors of Hiruko Town, he no longer transforms into his leopard-like battle form.

Carlyle Syndicate Capo
"The Laughing Reaper" Keith Schneider

STYLE: Katana●, Legger=Legger◎
ID: C
HEIGHT: 186cm
WEIGHT: 107kg
AGE: 39
GENDER: Male
EYES: Blue
HAIR: Gold
SKIN: White

"Oh, sugoi! Was that trick right now ninpo? Are you a NINJA?!"

One of the Carlyle Syndicate's most elite capos, who are collectively known as the "Knights of the Round Table." His code name is "Lancelot," and he serves as Godfather Arthur's personal messenger, bringing important orders--and his blade, to see that they're properly carried out--to Carlyle Syndicate strongholds throughout the Earth.

He is constantly smiling and cracking jokes and, as a consummate devotee of the sword, has an obnoxious obsession with Japan and its samurai history that make it difficult for many to take him seriously. However, beneath his carefree demeanor, he is a cold and calculating man who is a deadly opponent in battle. It's said that he doesn't stop smiling even as he engages in fierce combat or murders in cold blood.

He arrived in TOKYO N◎VA some months ago and has remained there considerably longer than he usually stays in any one place; it's rumored he is on a rare long-term assignment. As such, he has put down roots, getting to know many of the residents of the megaplex. Some of his new friends don't even realize he's one of the world's most notorious criminals.

The Holy Mother
"The Little Mother" Mu (pronounced 'Mew')

STYLE: Charisma●◎, Highlander, Ayakashi
ID: C
HEIGHT: 155cm
WEIGHT: 40kg
AGE: ?
GENDER: Female
EYES: Gold
HAIR: Blond
SKIN: White

"You are mistaken. The miracles that shall change the world reside not within me, but within your own heart."

The Holy Mother of the world's largest religion, the Society of True Teachings. Only a year ago, in mysterious circumstances, the previous Holy Mother abdicated the position and Mu became the new Holy Mother despite her unusual youth (though the Society does not typically divulge their Holy Mothers' exact age or personal history.)

It is said that her power to work miracles is the greatest of any Holy Mother yet, and so the popularity of the Society has seen a resurgence after its slow decline in recent years. Mu has made waves throughout the world with the recent publication of her first encyclical, which boldly declares with her authority as Holy Mother that Hiruko, Machina and Ayakashi are all equal to humans in the eyes of God.

Though the most faithful devotees of the Society make pilgrimages through the frozen wastes to the Holy Mother's Land, the Society recognizes that most cannot do this, and so addresses from the Holy Mother are broadcast to every one of their mosques over the Web on a regular basis.

Salon Dolphan Propietress
"The Duchess" Aldora Dolphan

STYLE: Ayakashi=Ayakashi=Ayakashi●◎
ID: X
HEIGHT: 130cm
WEIGHT: 27kg
AGE: ?
GENDER: Female
EYES: Green/Red
HAIR: Blond
SKIN: White

"The night falls. The moon rises. This time is ours and ours alone. Let the feast begin!"

An elder Ayakashi from the Night Clan who appears to be a beautiful young girl. She is best known for running TOKYO N◎VA's premier "hunting ground", Salon Dolphan. She insists that she was royalty in the distant past, before the Hazards, and this has lead to her being nicknamed "The Duchess."

Though exceptionally refined and pleasant to anyone she speaks to, even humans, Aldora privately views humans as no more than livestock for her kind.  In the Neuro Age, she refuses to even feed from humans; instead, she had her subordinates make an arrangement with a hospital to provide her with a supply of medical blood, so that she can sup elegantly from a wine glass rather than sinking her fangs into filthy human throats.

Aldora's long life has made her jaded and overwhelmed by ennui, and she is constantly in search of something new to amuse her. She has a Kagemusha who takes care of day-to-day affairs at the Salon while she is off playing.

```