This combat gang has formed around the remnants of the Metal Warriors, a gang virtually wiped out in one night by the Inquisitors. It has since drafted members of the Red Chrome Legion and Iron sights who have violent personal grudges against the Inquisitors (although other targets are randomly savaged as well). Members dress in the traditional black leather and chrome, sport visible cyberwear and simply look dirty, primitive and dangerous. Maelstrom’s leader, Hammer, was originally thrown out of the Metal Warriors for breaking their combat code-now anything goes. About 30% of the gang are registered cyber psychos, and another 35% are hovering near the edge. If you’re being chased by Inquisitors you might be glad to see these guys, but that’s the only time.

Recently Maelstrom has taken over the deserted building that used to be Barley’s, on the west side of town near the docks. They have made this area their turf, but the situation is volatile at best because of the large number of businesses in this area serving the covert needs of corps and solos. The gang is bright enough to realize this, and choose the targetsof their “business security charge” visits quite carefully (observers still can’t understand why Maelstrom has never put the squeeze on the three elderly ladies who run R, D & F Floral Creations). Other than night time sweeps for Inquisitors, the gang is into small-time crimes, but a need for new cyberware and combat drugs threatens to drive them to hit larger targets (like Cuevarra’s, the Mexican restaurant where weapons are dealt out the backdoor). If this happens, expect a blood bath as the professionals are pitted against the cyber psychos for the best two of three.