Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 4 Chapter 1 Subject: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (1 of 3) On Sat, 25 Oct 97 23:20:13 -0700 In Message # 00001817 In alt.callahans Post # 00000030 Roland X said: Roland looked out from one of the many enormous viewports of the SDF-1. Behind him, Macross City began to dim, slowing down for the evening. He smiled at the sight; a slight adjustment to the records of the RDF's database would ensure that instead of an enormous cannon, the UN would build a defense screen. This time, Earth would not be devastated by the Zentraedi fleet. A nice finish to a long, wonderful... Morgan's arms slowly wrapped themselves around Roland's chest. "It's beautiful, isn't it?" Roland sighed. "Space travel on my homeworld has been interfered with by petty factions of paranormals. It's one of the primary reasons I started worldwalking; I've wanted to travel space since I can remember." He smiled. "You're right; it _is_ beautiful." He turned in her arms and looked into her eyes. "But not half as beautiful as you." "As soon as I said that, I _knew_ you would it into a compliment." Morgan's eyes sparkled in the starlight. "We don't have to leave yet, if you don't want to." Roland chuckled. "You've been wonderful about tolerating Macross, my love. I know that tin cans aren't your favorite places. Shall we?" Morgan pulled Roland close. "My love, whereever you are is my favorite place..." "...but you're right. It's time to go." "Are there any other stops you'd like to make, my heart?" Roland asks, reluctantly withdrawing from Morgan's arms and assembling the Treadmill at superspeed beside her. "Well, we should stop in Arcadia for Cutter, Leetah and Sil before we leave for your fiction," Morgan replies reasonably. "The last time I saw Sil, she was...otherwise occupied." Roland chuckled. "But I imagine that picking up the wolves would be a good idea." With that, Roland holds out his hand. Morgan accepts the offered hand, and Roland levitates her to his side, keeping her floating just off the treadmill as he begins to build speed. "You'd think Barry would put a _chair_ on this thing for Iris," Roland notes amiably. "He probably enjoys having the excuse to carry her," Morgan replies with a smile. Roland laughs as they vanish. The astral plane... Silver Phoenix, spirit of Order and Eternity, laughed as she conjured another drink from the dreanstuff that makes up astral 'reality.' "So, my...colorful friend," she said to the living rainbow sitting across from her, "you have yet to tell me your name." "You'll laugh," the sky dragon replied. "Nonsense," Sil said. "I promise, I won't laugh at you." She smiled. "And believe me, I have lots of practice stifling laughter with all the time I spend around Roland." The dragon blinked...then smiled back at her. "What the hell. My name is Zenn-La." Sil did not laugh. She very carefully did not laugh. But the effort was obvious. "It's a good thing I don't surf, then." Zenn laughed. "I'm glad things have improved so much between the forces of Order and Chaos of late. This-" he waved at the French cafe' they sat in, with its view of Minas Tirith, "-would have been impossible less than an eon ago." Sil nodded. "The Corrupt One has had a number of setbacks across reality of late. It is most refreshing." She smiled. "Hopefully, the happy couple will have some time to enjoy wedded bliss before the next crisis." "Yes, the druid is a most benevolent spirit, and the scion of Phoenix seems nice enough." Zenn sipped his Irish coffee. "They should enjoy much happiness over the years." "Assuming some other villain doesn't decide to spoil the-" Sil stopped, shivering. Zenn looked at her, concerned. "Silver?" "I'm all right. As the flesh-folk say, I feel like someone 'walked on my grave.' Nothing, I'm sure," she replied, not believing a word. Somewhere, KnightMare smiled... =========================== Subject: AAE4: The Face of The Enemy (2 of 3) On Sat, 25 Oct 1997 23:15:44 In Message # 00001819 In alt.callahans Post # 00000032 Morgan said: Morgan had discovered an interesting feature that Psyche had built into the Arcadian "snowglobe". If she concentrated, she could get an image of a particular inhabitant of the fairy lands. Thus, the immortals had no trouble finding Morgan's lupine companions. It also meant that they weren't surprised by the litter of pups they found nuzzled next to Leetah. "I didn't realize we'd been gone that long," Morgan commented as she inspected the little balls of fur. *You weren't,* Cutter replied. *Things happen in their own time in Arcadia. And besides, I think we had a head start. We had some time to play here when we came with Roscoe, remember?* "Well, congratulations, anyway," Roland smiled. "I take it this means you'll want to stay put for a while?" /Yes, we've had enough adventuring for the time being. We have more important things to tend to for now./ Leetah sent Morgan a brief mental question, and Morgan smiled broadly. "Someday, I'm sure. Probably not soon, though. Plenty of time for that later." Roland, picking up the gist of the conversation, exhibited his trademark blush. Morgan tapped into Roland's mind and sent an image of his homeworld to the wolves. "You know where to find us if you want us. Not that you need an image of a particular location to find _me_." *And you likewise. I'm sure we could find someone here to mind the kids if you need our help.* "We'll keep that in mind," Roland replied. There was a tacit acknowledgment among the four that good-byes were not necessary. "And now, my heart," grinned the Freelance Immortal, "Shall we go home?" Morgan returned his smile warmly. "Home. I like the sound of that." She wrapped her arms around Roland, who swept her up in his arms and leapt onto the treadmill. His legs became a blur, and in moments they faded from sight. =========================== Subject: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Sat, 25 Oct 97 23:23:05 -0700 In Message # 00001820 In alt.callahans Post # 00000033 Roland X said: The Antiverse... *Begin, sorceror,* KnightMare sent calmly. Bearing the uniform and ring of Sinestro and wielding the Shadow Brand in his off-hand, Dr. Adrian Thorne took a long, deep breath and traced a circle in the nothing with the power of the two unholy weapons. They began chanting words that must not be written, in a language best allowed to die out, and the circle began to glow with a sickly, mottled light. KnightMare, at the end of the chant, screamed its desire and its power, and the spirit world screamed back in pain. The Silver Phoenix and Zenn-La appeared in the circle, complete with cafe table. The dragon whirled on their captor, indignant, but Sil just stared wide-eyed at the two Fallen wizards. "Grrrr...who dares force their will upon a Celestial Dragon?" The colors swirled brightly and furiously around the dragon. *I am KnightMare, last of the Shadows,* it explained. *And I have need of forces of Order and Chaos.* *Leave the dragon out of this,* Sil broke in. *He is a chaos entity, as you are.* "Hey!" Zen said, indignant. *I no longer serve Chaos, though I bear that ancient power no enmity. I simply intend to take advantage of my newfould knowledge to find my rightful place in the continuum.* *You mean conquer countless realities!* Sil raged at KnightMare. "How is there a difference?" Thorne asked with a cruel smile. "Roland and Morgan will search infinity for you fruitlessly, while the Lord of Shadows conquers all. You, of Order, and the dragon, of Chaos, will provide the compass with which to find the balance point. What was it the psion Archimedes said? 'Give me a lever and a place to stand, and I can move the world.' We will begin building our lever soon. You will allow us to find the place to stand." /That's what you think,/ Sil thought, doing her best to look afraid. It wasn't a difficult task... Interlude The HIT-Mark V, Unit 929, stood silent, awaiting the return of its spirit. The cyborg reviewed its instructions; the alarm cycle had not finished. A file appeared for downloading. >Enter passcode,< the cyborg's program demanded. A complex series of formulae appeared in its main memory. >Passcode accepted. Begin download.< *This is Silver Phoenix. Take the following message to Roland Phoenix and Morgan Greywolf...* Earth-9 "Mmm..." Morgan rolled over and kissed her husband. "Good morning, my love." "Mornin', beloved," Roland murmured, returning the kiss. He smiled at her, the memory of their arrival still fresh, despite the time they'd already had together... ["BLOODY NASS! MY APARTMENT!" Roland looked at the wreckage in dismay. His apartment was gone. His things were piled neatly in the crater-his defenses, at least, had saved that much-but he couldn't _use_ most of it with no outlets...and his books would need some kind of shelter. In front of the force-shielded pile, a single thorn had carefully been placed. "Thorne," Roland whispered. "That sprocking bastich. I'm going to-" Morgan tapped him on the shoulder. Roland turned, confused...and saw his true love smiling at him, dangling the cottage on its chain inches from his nose. "I love you," he said with a chuckle...] Roland managed to roll out of bed (Morgan had long since gotten up, dressed, and begun work on the revised proposal to begin talks between the psions and the magi of Earth-9) and staggered to the window. "Hey Morgan," he croaked, "we have a visitor. Sil's at the door." <*Well, you _could_ let her in,*> she sent with a chuckle. Roland winced. "Pain in the butt," he muttered under his breath. Morgan laughed. "Grouch." /I never should have let her near B-5,/ he thought, but the grin on his face would have to be surgically removed. If he would really want to _do_ something so stupid. He opened the door. "You are Roland Phoenix?" Shades of 'Terminator' flashing through his head, remembering the origin of this body, and most importantly, receiving _no_ trace of Sil's thoughts, Roland is immediately on his guard. Behind him, Morgan is armed to the teeth and to Roland's right rear flank. "Who's asking?" "I am Hyper Intelligence Technologies unit 929, subsumed by the Silver Phoenix astral program. I have been sent with a message. Do you receive?" Roland knew the HIT Mark meant him no harm, yet he was more nervous than ever now. A threat to him was one thing; threat to family was quite another. He and Morgan locked eyes for a moment. "Play it." The HIT Mark's eyes flickered and shone, and a hologram appeared in front of the Freelance Immortals. Sil smiled at them from her true form. "Hello, dear ones. I wish I could be here in the flesh-if you'll pardon a hideous pun-but I am sad to report that the situation is far more grave than that. KnightMare has begun whatever campaign it intends, and knowing this monstrosity, it must be an unpleasant one. It has begun by kidnapping both myself and my...companion." Roland tightens as Sil's gaze becomes more intense. "Roland, you must _not_ launch a rescue attempt. If it is not a trap, then it is a diversion." She smiles sadly. "I know how much you...feel...for me, and how difficult this will be for you. But if you truly want to aid me, SHUT THIS MONSTER DOWN. You'll probably come across me in the process anyway." She chuckles. "Morgan, if he doesn't listen, feel free to knock him over the head and sit on him or something. "I know you won't let KnightMare succeed. I have faith in you, brother and sister both. May the Light grant that we meet again. I love you." Sil smiled, then faded from sight. "Instructions?" The HIT Mark asked evenly. Roland trembled, caught neatly between fury and grief. Morgan just held him. Finally, Roland found his voice. "Remain with us. Obey-Morgan's orders." At Morgan's quizzical look, he adds, "You know how I feel about killing. You will give the HIT Mark the most-efficient- orders." Roland shivered, slight nausea coming and passing quickly. Morgan begins to speak, then grows silent with a sigh. The Treadmill long since returned, Roland concentrates instead. An X-Window opens to Callahan's. Roland taps the yin-yang on his belt, and his trenchcoat and streetclothes appear around him. Morgan tightens her fist, and Aramegil shrinks down to dagger-size. Both immortals walk out of the house. Roland sighs one more time, and Morgan says, "Homestead." The three-story brownstone disappears, and the silver cottage appears around Morgan's neck. Both turn and walk through the X-Window. "Folx," both say in perfect high-fidelity stereo, "we have a problem..." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Sun, 26 Oct 1997 17:22:49 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001821 In alt.callahans Post # 00000034 Dane0R0A said: In a message dated 97-10-26 01:25:03 EST, Roland and Morgan wrote: << Both turn and walk through the X-Window. "Folx," both say in perfect high-fidelity stereo, "we have a problem..." >> A tiny spark appears up in the rafters of The Place, and The Stardragon's tiny mental voice is heard /What is the nature of the problem, friends. How can I help./ =========================== Subject: Stranger in the Night On Sun, 26 Oct 1997 21:43:39 -0800 In Message # 00001823 In alt.callahans Post # 00000036 Gareth L Owen said: The party was over and Stranger and Kitty made their way quietly out of Arcadia, through a pool in a glade that no one would ever be able to find again. They walked silently for a while, through a forest. Every so often they would pass a pool of the deepest blue. "This is the Wood Between The Worlds then?" "Yes, it's not that easy to get to, we were lucky I noticed the gateway in Arcadia." "You don't just notice things like that, Stranger." "Maybe not, but you shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth." They carried on in silence for a while, Stranger had reverted to his usual dark long coat and broad brimmed hat. At his waist hung his swords. "Here's my stop." said Kitty finally, as they approached a pool indistinguishable from the others. "You sure about this?" "Yeah. For some reason I manifest as a cat, maybe the answer lies here." Stranger reached over and hugged Kitty. "Take care, friend." "You too. I'll see you again." No more words were needed, so Kitty dived into the pool and was gone. Stranger stared into the pool for a second and carried on. ++++ Miyoko watched the newcomer, he was a talented fighter, alright. He had turned up at his dojo asking for a teacher. Miyoko watched as he 'walked the line', taking on every current member of the dojo in turn, starting at the white belts and working up to the black. He was good. He'd beaten the white and red belts easily and was now on the browns. It wouldn't be a problem, this man would beat even the black belts without a problem. At last the newcomer came to the end of the line, the last black belt had lasted almost aminute. Miyoko was impressed that he'd lasted that long. Miyoko walked up to the newcomer and looked into his eyes. The stranger did not look away and Miyoko did not like what he saw. "No." Said Miyoko. "What? Why not?" "Too much anger. I can teach you nothing and you would disturb the harmony of the dojo." "But.." "No buts. You agreed to abide by my word, I have decided." The old mans eyes softened. "If it helps I am truly sorry, I cannot help you." The Stranger walked away. ++++ The Stranger looked out over a pass high in the mountains in Spain. He'd been there before, in a half remembered dream. Below him lay a castle. He knew it to be the Grail Castle. today, it was a monastry, but a very special monastry. He descended the side of the pass, he had thrown his swords into a lake a days walk away, and he was unarmed. He approached the gates and banged on them. A monk answered and silently beckoned him to follow. The Stranger followed him through the hallways to a small spartan room where the father Abbot awaited. The abbot looked at him. "What can I do for you my son?" "I, I want somewhere quiet to, well, to be. A bed, a little food and water, that's all I want. I'm strong, I can weave and sew and cook and fetch water in exchange." The abbot looked into his eyes, he shuddered slightly at what he saw, but a voice deep inside told him that this man had helped him somehow, long ago. All he wanted was a quiet place to stay. "OK, Brother Castillo, show this man to one of the empty cells and see he has food and water and work provided for him." Twenty four hours later, the Stranger, now wearign a cassock of a grail monk, sat silently weaving and searching for some sort of inner peace. =========================== Subject: Aae: Finding Driss, Squee adn Roscoe. On Sun, 26 Oct 1997 21:01:21 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001824 In alt.callahans Post # 00000037 Driscoll said: Roscoe and Driss slip away from the wedding sometime around the middle of the revelling and after Forg Zanta and his crew have blasted off again back to the Star Wars universe. Roscoe seems much calmer than he has been as of late, almost as if having Driss nearby were a sort of security blanket for him. Driss is wavering heavily as he tries to walk, having drank enough to kill a normal man of alchohol poisoning, not to mention the packets fo green powder he was dumping in the bottle from time to time. [I'm sure everyone;s going to be busy revelling for a while Driss so we can catch up on what's been going on in my village. Ummm But I have to warn you... this isn;t my real form. the other's aren;t wolves.] Driss trips on a stone and falls, naturally moving his body into a roll and rolling back up to his feet, then wavering there a moment to make sure he's going to be able to stay. "I know that already. You're a little hairy goblin." Roscoe stopped in his tracks. [WHAT? you KNEW? Why didn't you say anything before???] Driss shakes his head trying to clear the vision of pixies flying around his head from his vision, but finally gives up deciding the pixies actually are real and bats at them instead. "I've known since Quaren. When I saw you chasing yourself while I was recruiting the CAoL, I figured he was probably one of your race, so I poked around in his mind, found out it was you. Found out what you really looked like. Found out a lot of things. A lot more than I really wanted to know." Roscoe just stands there silently and lets the words and the meanings behind them sink in. He thought he had closed off his mind. Blocked those things away from any prying. But Driss had been a God, and a mischievious one at that. what could he have expected? But what implications does it have on the future? Driss broke the silence and Roscoe's train of thought. "So where is it anyways?" [Huh? Where is what?] "My tomb. I always thought it would be kidna cool to see your own grave, and what better time then now when I'm stinking drunk already? hehehehe" [Ummmm it's a long way off. really. And it's getting late now. I'll show it to you later I promise. So, where DID you disappear off to before?] Driss had managed to catch one of hte pixies flying around his head and was studdying it carefully, finally deciding it was imaginary afterall. Releasing it it faded out of sight. "Ugg remind me never to take Utopia here again it's too hard to figure out what's a hallucination adn what isn't." He moved over to a stump and sitting down began his tale. After I saw them, Morgan adn Roland I mean, it tore me up inside. Rage grief, the works. but I needed something to release them. And thos release formed in hate. A blinding bloodlust for the one who caused everything. The one who came to Quaren to torment me for no understandable reason. Who caused me to see Morgan for the first time and lose my heart. And who was the reason I came back to that point in time and had my heart crushed. The Controller. The Army of Light was searching for him and Matt adn Miles, but I had an ace I could now play that I couldn't as a God. Gregorian Glemson, the Incarnation of Magi. Magi's magic would be able to find The Controller easily and Gregorian would be able to send me right to him. So I went to find him. And when I did it took less convincing than I thought it would. That same day he gave me a wand that would open a portal to The Controller. Well, as we know now, at the time there were _two_ Controllers. The spell locked onto one of them sitting cloaked in orbit in a TARDIS. I appeared in a docking bay with a bunch of vehicles from various fictions. I knew I wasn't in Quaren so the spell had to have worked, so I began tracking my prey. I found him in the control room working at a console observing what was going on in Quaren. I drew my Rapier and he turned to face me. I know I wasn't thinking too clearly at the time, but still when I think back I could swear that damn robot face was grinning at me as I went into a verbal tirade. I rudhed him, but he blasted me with a beam from his hand and knocked me back. Then he said he was going to finish me off once and for all. I smelled burning wiring and saw smoke rising from my D-hopper, the circutry fried and the spell gone with it. Then the controls moved on their own and locked up and the TARDIS shifted. He opened up an x-window and escaped through it. I was trapped there as the shields dropped and the TARDIS and myself were incinerated in teh heart of a star as it exploded into a super nova. My artifacts got blown into my cloak of shadows by the blasht, and so the cloak floated through the void of space until it snagged ont he cockpit viewport of Forg's ship. They brought it inside and were surprised to find me wrapped up inside it, regenerated just enough to be recognisable as humanoid and alive. they treated me in sick bay adn I was back on my feet in no time and tried ot track down Morgan and Roladn to explain my failure, and foudn the wedding. And realized that my rampage didn't really change anything inside me afterall. Roscoe listened to the tale and when Driss had finished stood up and began walking down the path some more. [Well coem on, we still have a bit of a walk to go.] They finished their walk in silence, and by the time they reached the village Driss's regenerative abilities had kicked in again and he was stone cold sober. Squee came running down the road towards them as the approached, and Roscoe shifted into his natural form to sweep up the child and give him a big hug. "Hiya Unca Roscoe iya Unca Driss you wanna see what I been doin'? Cumhere Cumhere Cumhere" Squee wiggled out of Roscoe's hug, siezed a hand and began trying to drag Roscoe as fast as possible. Driss chuckled to himself. "Unca Driss. I think I could get used to that." They stayed in the village until one morning they went into the kitchen to find two drinks poured in mugs etched with Callahan's, and a Callahan's matchbook with a time written inside the cover. Driss and Roscoe looked at it silently. Finally Driss spoke up. "You know we _could_ just decide not to show up." Roscoe sighed, "Yeh but you know _He_ would find a way to get us there anyways. I'll go see if Selia can watch Squee, at least until we find otu what's going on." "OK, I'll get our stuff and meet you by the Gateways." Driss repied with a sigh. Roscoe came running up obviously distressed. [We haven't been able to find Squee anywhere. Selia, Ambrose, Senan, Milo, and Caffar are looking for him. I don;t like leaving without sayign goodbye but time's getting short. It looks like we'll have to. maybe we can stop back here to check on him after we find out what's going on at Callahan's.] They stepped through the portal to Callahan's and arrived just in time for Morgan and Roland's announcement of "We've got a problem." Driss leaned against a column, "Don't we _always_?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Mon, 27 Oct 1997 09:58:25 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001825 In alt.callahans Post # 00000038 "P. Campbell" said: On Sat, 25 Oct 1997, Roland X wrote: > "Folx," both say in perfect high-fidelity stereo, "we have a > problem..." Xzerrion's eyes flash red with and anger he hadn't thought he could still feel after the destruction of his original house sigil. "Excuse me a moment." He walks away and proceeds to deliver several curses in his native drow tongue for the next few minutes. "I'll help in any way I can, of course. I just thought I might have a chance to rest for a while, and become used to the new limitations of my powers ... as well as adjust to the final ending of my existance as part of house Rilynt'tar." He shakes his head. "No rest for those who would be heroes." The air shimmers next to Xzerrion momentarily, resolving into a portal. A female drow rides through it on a horse completely black other than a silver star on its forehead. Xzerrion looks up in shock and joy. "Tezrantha," he murmurs. "Yes, Xzerrion, it's me. And a fine time I've had tracking you down too, though it sounds like I got here just in time. I'll help you through this, and assist your friends." Tezrantha slides off her horse, slips an arm around Xzerrion and kisses his forehead. Xzerrion swallows a couple times, then finds his voice again. "Folks this is Tezrantha, Ak'hasta's daughter and my dearest beloved. You may trust her as you would myself." The horse whickers, sounding suspiciously like a chuckle, then shoves Xzerrion closer to Tezrantha with its nose. - Xzerrion and Tezrantha =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Mon, 27 Oct 1997 10:31:55 -0800 In Message # 00001826 In alt.callahans Post # 00000039 fuzzy said: On 26 Oct 1997, Roland X wrote: > On Sat, 25 Oct 97 23:23:05 -0700 In Message # 00001820 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000033 Roland X said: [snip] > The three-story brownstone disappears, and the > silver cottage appears around Morgan's neck. > Both turn and walk through the X-Window. > "Folx," both say in perfect high-fidelity > stereo, "we have a problem..." Fuzzy turns from where he was trying to get the team building The Barbecue Pit to include water cannon mounts on the rim... "If we have a problem, we had best see what can be done about it before it grows up..." Nemisis the Living Metal Demoness leaves her discusion with IMO, where she was trying to understand the nature of Opinion... "What size is this problem at present?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Mon, 27 Oct 1997 15:13:15 -0800 In Message # 00001827 In alt.callahans Post # 00000040 The Lone One said: On 27 Oct 1997, P. Campbell wrote: > On Sat, 25 Oct 1997, Roland X wrote: >> Both turn and walk through the X-Window. >> "Folx," both say in perfect high-fidelity >> stereo, "we have a problem..." > > The horse whickers, sounding suspiciously like a chuckle, then > shoves Xzerrion closer to Tezrantha with its nose. Mandy looks up from where she's been savoring a bar of chocolate, and blinks. "A problem? Anyone care to clarify for us?" A nearby patron explains Roland and his SO's origins and the fact that when they say there's a problem, there's a problem. An annoyed expression crosses her face, and she draws herself up to her full 5'3" height. Suddenly, she seems to turn into mist before coalescing as Raver. This is not the half-friendly demon that Callahanites know -- this is a stranger with the expression of someone who'd be quite delighted to roast unlucky enemies over a slow fire and crack jokes while doing it. Raver is clad in a strange combination of silver plate and chain mail, a halberd and a pack slung over her shoulders. "Would a demon be welcome on your quest, human?" Us. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE4: The Face of The Enemy (2 of 3) On Tue, 28 Oct 1997 19:39:14 GMT In Message # 00001828 In alt.callahans Post # 00000041 eleri (CJB) said: Morgan was rumored to have said: :->nuzzled next to Leetah. "I didn't realize we'd been gone that :->long," Morgan commented as she inspected the little balls of fur. :-> :->*You weren't,* Cutter replied. *Things happen in their own time in :->Arcadia. Eleri looks a bit puzzeld at finding Cutter and Leetah in the Place, but only for a moment. If a Wolfrider needed a drink, here'd be the place to get it! Dreamberry Wine anybuggy? Too bad Richard has no time, he'd like it in here. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Tue, 28 Oct 1997 16:58:19 -0600 In Message # 00001829 In alt.callahans Post # 00000042 Michael Jon Knight said: THE RING HOTEL, HIGH SATURN ORBIT, 0000 HOURS, JANUARY 1, 2264 EARTH STANDARD TIME. As confetti flew and the crowds cheered, Knytt and Flarn glided across the dance floor of the Ring Hotel. The view out the windows was specatular. The rings of Saturn stretching out into the distance all around them. The couple danced in a special area of the hotel, designed like a solarium, roof and three walls were clear glass and the floor was glass as well, only lightly frosted, like dancing on a thin sheet of ice. The hotel was one of the first commercial constructions using the new gravity fields, and this room itself hailed across the galaxy as one of the most practical, yet artistic, uses of the new technology to date. A dozen holo-shows had used it as a location in their stories, it was the site of several diplomatic functions, and there were several hotels who were planning on duplicating the idea. "Happy New Year, love," Knytt said as the cheering died down and people returned to general partying. "Happy New Year to you, too." Flarn replied as Knytt guided her in a spin, the dark green velvet skirt of her dress swirling around her, "The view here is incredible. I had always heard about the rings of Saturn, but it doesn't prepare one for actually seeing it." As he drew her back into his arms, Knytt replied, "It is quite a cosmic dance, isn't it? Millions of tiny snowballs orbitting beneath our feet, all caught just right by that gas giant," Knytt drew his lady into an orbit around him as he said, "so they make an orbit, instead of," he stepped back as she did the same, saying, "flying away or," drawing her in a spin into him, "crashing into the planet." Flarn's eyes twinkled with a light that was as much her own as the stars outside. "Showoff." Knytt replied by kissing her. After a long moment, Flarn noticed a vibration against her stomach. She slipped out of the kiss, and smirked as she queried, "Is that a pager in your pocket or are you just glad to see me?" Knytt looked Pluto-ward, "Ack! Why now?" Removing the small pager from his belt, he glanced at the small display. His face turned devastatingly serious. Flarn didn't have to ask what it was about. "I'll get my bag," she said. --------------------------- By the time the bill for the evening was settled, coats and handbag were gathered, and the couple had made their way to the hotel docking bay, a flight plan had been filed and they were cleared for launch. Knytt and Flarn made a quick path to the two-man space ship which looked remarkably like a miniature silver Whitestar with a domed cockpit similar to an F-16 except wide enough to sit two people side by side. Clamboring into the cockpit, Knytt helped Flarn in, more out of chivalry than need, and they strapped in as the cockpit sealed itself and the cabin pressurized. "Ring Command and Control, _Silverstar_ ready for launch," Flarn said into a small speaker built into the dash before her. "Confirmed, _Silverstar_. Safe journey and thank you for visiting the Ring Hotel," came a female reply, similar to Majel Barrett-Roddenbury. As the _Silverstar_ left the docking bay and followed the orbit of the rings briefly around the dark side of saturn before forming a jumppoint, Flarn remarked. "I can't believe you can't hear that. That woman sounds just like Lwaxana Troi. A distinctive voice like that, I am surprised you don't pick up on it." "I'm sorry, I just don't hear it. Maybe in person, but those speakers distort sound too much." The _Silverstar_ passed through the jumpoint, bound for Earth. After a few minutes, Flarn asked, "So, what did the messge say?" "Mike paged me that Roland and Morgan came through an X-window and announced that there was a problem. He didn't give any more details than that. Except the usual date and time." "I wonder what it is?" "I wish I knew. I'd know what to pack. Coming out of hyperspace." The _Silverstar_ passed through the exit jumppoint over southern Australia. Aussie Control immediately came on the speaker. "Welcome home, _Silverstar_. Your flight plan has been confirmed and you are cleared by North Atlantic Control for approach. Calling it an early night, eh Flarn? Or has that mate of yours called it quits already?" "Aussie Control, you know how it is with these Americans, you just can't take them anywhere," Knytt scowled as Flarn added, "I should have fallen for a Canadian. More well-mannered." "But less interesting," Knytt added. "Well," Aussie Control chuckled, "G'day, you two, er G'night, rather." "Night," Flarn said. ---------------------- The rest of the flight was uneventful. The _Silverstar_ came to rest in the field outside Knytt's home. As the cockpit opened, the winds whipped across the hilltop from the north Atlantic. The pair ran across the snowfield and burst into the warmth of the house. Hanging their parkas on the hall tree in the entryhall, they walked into the living room. Pyewackett lay asleep on the rug in front of the fireplace. He looked up as the couple entered. "You're home early," the feline observed. "Yes, there's some problem. The CAoL is gathering at Callahan's." Pyewackett yawned, "Call me if you need me." Knytt smirked, "I expected that." "I'll be here as well," Flarn said, "Pyewackett can find me if there is a problem." Knytt smiled. "I was expecting that as well, actually. Just in case, I made you something." He went to a drawer on the coffee table, retrieving a small box. He opened it, revealing a small gold chain bracelet, with milky white stones that had a faintly blue tinge alternately set with green gemstones. Flarn looked at it as Knytt slipped it over her wrist. "It's beautiful. What does it do?" Knytt chuckled, "You know me so well. If we need to contact each other, this will make a telepathic link between us. It is just like Pyewackett's collar. The only difference is, instead of making your thoughts audible, it will send your thoughts to me. And vice versa." "You be careful," Flarn said, "I will be quite ... crotchety ... if some harm should befall you," she added in her best Delenn voice. "I'll be careful. I'll leave the _Silverstar_ here, should you need it. I'll take the _Goldstar_. If there is trouble, it is made more for that sort of thing." Knytt turned for the door when Flarn stopped him. "Aren't you forgetting something?" Knytt looked around, saw the _Silverstar_ with a light dusting of snow on it and with a few mental commands, sent it to the barn where he stored the twin ships. He warmed up the _Goldstar's_ engine and had the autopilot bring it out where the _Silverstar_ was parked originally. "There, ship is warmed up and ready." Flarn grinned at him, "No, that's not it." Knytt grinned, took Flarn in his arms and kissed her. Stifling a giggle, she pulled away and said, "Pleasant as that was, that's not it either." "Then what?" Knytt said, looking perplexed. "Go get changed. I won't have you running off to fight evil in your Christmas presents." Knytt realized he was wearing the burgundy velvet long tuxedo coat Flarn had given him. Running off to the bedroom, he returned a second later. Flarn looked him over. He wore a brown field coat, jeans, his all-weather boots, and a red flannel shirt. "That was a quick change. Much better. Don't forget your compass and canteen. They're hanging by the door." Knytt kissed her again. "I'd forget my head without you. You sure you're okay with this running off." "I'm fine. You wouldn't be you if you quit rushing off to help your friends." "I'll be back soon as I can." "I know. Get going. Your friends need you." Knytt ran out the door to the _Goldstar_. No need to file a flight plan this time. Time travel was nice that way. The _Goldstar_ rose off the ground about a hundred feet, as a hole in reality opened in front of it. The _Goldstar_ flew through full throttle. A faint rumble on Flarn's side of the Gate made her chuckle. "That'll make quite an entrance for the folks feeling the sonic boom on the other side." She watched the gate close behind him. "Be careful, Mike." -------------------- Behind the bar, Mike Callahan had just finished typing the message to Knytt's pager when a low rumble shook the Place. He added the time and date for arrival and hit 'send'. "Right on time," he grinned. A minute later, Knytt stood in the open doorway. Behind him, a gold miniature of the Whitestar sat in the center of the parking lot. "Where's the fire?" he asked with his trademark manic grin. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Tue, 28 Oct 1997 16:50:01 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001831 In alt.callahans Post # 00000044 Driscoll said: > On Mon, 27 Oct 1997 15:13:15 -0800 In Message # 00001827 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000040 The Lone One said: > > Raver is clad in a strange combination of silver plate and chain > mail, a halberd and a pack slung over her shoulders. "Would a demon > be welcome on your quest, human?" Driscoll looks her over with his normal cocky smirk on his face. "trust me, if they'll accept help from _me_ again you're more than welcome." OOC: BTW this also remindined me I haven't described driss's soutfit of hte chapter yet. heheheh. He's dressed in a shimmering red and yellow doublet and hose done in the harlequin style. His rapier si of course at his size, and he's wearing his 7 league boots and gauntlets of speed. Four medallions hang around his neck. One of which the group knows QUITE well The others seem to be holy symbols of various dieties and radiate magic. He is also wearing a widebrimmed leather hat with serveral large red and yellow feathers tucked behind the righthand brim, which is raised and pinned to the hat in the cavalier style. The pins in the hat are three, a large lion's head of gold encrusted with small gemstones is in the center, and it is flanked by two smaller pins, one of a silver jeweled axe, the other of a silver jewel encrusted dueling pistol. All three of these pins also radiate magic. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Wed, 29 Oct 97 00:02:05 PST In Message # 00001832 In alt.callahans Post # 00000045 Martin Gerster said: On Sat, Oct 25th Roland X/Roland Phoenix wrote: > Both turn and walk through the X-Window. > "Folx," both say in perfect high-fidelity > stereo, "we have a problem..." Just as the pair say this, another X-window opens a few feet away from them, on the same wall. Out of this pour Dhyrclhanc, in his 21 ft tall Ruby Fire Dragon form, a twenty-something Rhiannon, a badly banged-up Sythea and a somewhat badly damaged Nimrod. Turning his head towards Roland and Morgan, Dhyrclhanc smiles, weakly, and says, "Yes, but I'll bet that our problem can beat your problem." At this, Nimrod sends an irrate glance at the Ruby Fire Lendragon, Sythea colapses in a chair, and Rhianon agrees, "Yes, the Controller's captured John." =========================== Subject: Dhyrclhanc's Return -- Looking for a Lair and Has Hatchling Up for Adoption On Wed, 29 Oct 1997 00:50:23 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001833 In alt.callahans Post # 00000046 Dhyrclhanc (Martin Gerster) said: Appearing first as a smear of bright color in one of the more happening corners of the Domiance/Wang-Doodle of Alfandra. Dhyrclahnc reappears, bearing a sleeping, baby red dragon in a transparent cylander. "Hi everybody -- I'm back, if only very temporarily. I gotta few tasks I gotta acomplish while I'm here: 1.) unload the tike (No, he doesn't have a name yet) 2.) Catch-up on any serious happenings in the wang-doodle I might've missed (and) 3.) Secure a Lair here in the Domiance. To paraphrase my foster-sib, Morgan, everybody's gotta have somewheres to store their stuff, at least this gives somewhere to put it while they go out and get more stuff! Plus, even a D-bee like myself'd like to have a perminent roof over my head." Laying the transparent tube down on the ground, Dhyrclhanc pulls a large cookie tin from his metal-weave, dragon-sized, duffle-bag. He pops the lid off and the sensous and erotic smell of chocolate wafts through the air. "I suspect you accept silver here as currency, but to sweeten the deal (quite literaly) I've brought along these -- roughly 3-dozen, chocolate, chocolate chip cookies (the *big ones*). I baked them myself. Plus, I know how things are around here." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Wed, 29 Oct 1997 09:44:09 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001835 In alt.callahans Post # 00000048 "P. Campbell" said: On Tue, 28 Oct 1997, Martin Gerster wrote: > > Turning his head towards Roland and Morgan, Dhyrclhanc smiles, > weakly, and says, "Yes, but I'll bet that our problem can beat > your problem." Xzerrion blinks. He and Tezrantha exchange glances. Anything that can hurt that group ... > At this, Nimrod sends an irrate glance at the Ruby Fire Lendragon, > Sythea colapses in a chair, and Rhianon agrees, "Yes, the > Controller's captured John." Xzerrion smiles grimly. "Once again, enter the CAoL. Rescue missions and antiterror a specialty. Anybody have a location for this one yet?" Despite his tone, the more perceptive members of the group note that he seems a bit nervous. Tezrantha pats him on the shoulder. "We'll do all right. You broke me out against worse odds, remember?" Xzerrion raises an eyebrow. "Yes, but this time we might not be able to count on your deity to send over two dragons to ...," he pauses, and looks at Dhyrclanc and the Stardragon, "... um, never mind." The horse chuckles again. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 29 Oct 97 14:10:18 -0800 In Message # 00001836 In alt.callahans Post # 00000049 Roland X said: >On Wed, 29 Oct 97 00:02:05 PST In Message # 00001832 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000045 > Martin Gerster said: > >At this, Nimrod sends an irrate glance at the Ruby Fire Lendragon, >Sythea colapses in a chair, and Rhianon agrees, "Yes, the >Controller's captured John." *Bloody nass,* Roland sends. *As if we didn't have enough problems. Even _our_ luck isn't that bad. The Controller and KnightMare at the same time? *...no. It's worse.* Roland, horrified, telepathically plays Sil's message to the CAoL. Moments later... *I have a very bad feeling about this...* The Antiverse "All is ready, Fell One," Thorne said humbly. *Excellent.* Its strange, inhuman 'face' literally glowed as it remembered the 'timesharing telepathy' of the second Beast on Oa. What it was about to do was considerably more complex, but well within its present abilities. *Soon,* KnightMare sent, *Limitations will be a thing of the past for me...* Several villainous lairs throught infinity... A shimmering appears near the heart of activity in many otherwise-impregnable fortresses. A human takes form first, then if that projection is not dispelled, a cross between a Shadow and a Love- craftian Old One follows. (For those unfamiliar with B-5 or a certain unnameable mythos, imagine a drider made from a Mind Flayer. Or a midnight black, 6' tall Beast with tentacles for arms. A picture of a standard B-5 Shadow has been posted in the AAE IV section of the CAoL webpage.) "Who are you?!" KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. "The proper question is, 'What do you want?' So, what do _you_ want?" =========================== Subject: Re: Dhyrclhanc's Return -- Looking for a Lair and Has Hatchling Up for Adoption On Wed, 29 Oct 97 20:05:48 PST In Message # 00001839 In alt.callahans Post # 00000052 Martin Gerster said: *****BEGINNING OF ORIGINAL MESSAGE****** If you wish I would addopt the hatchling. I have two cubs of my own so a hatchiling could not be much more trouble then those twins of mine :) and I would like to help in any way I could. I will admit I am not true dragon but I can shift to dragon and teach the hatchiling about his race, but also in my travels I have learned much more and hopefully I can school the youngester on those things also. if you would be willing Iwill of course adopt him and care for him as he was my own. Jade ****END OF ORIGINAL MESSAGE***** Dhyrclhanc's Lens flares as brightly as the heart of a captured, minature, star. Looking around and seeing no one he says, "I'll admit that speaking to a 21' tall Ruby Fire 'Lensdragon' can be intimidating but I'd appriciate it if you'd show yourself. With whom am I speaking?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Thu, 30 Oct 1997 02:18:17 -0600 In Message # 00001841 In alt.callahans Post # 00000054 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Wed, 29 Oct 97 14:10:18 -0800 In Message # 00001836 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000049 Roland X said: > > *Bloody nass,* Roland sends. *As if we didn't have enough >problems. Even _our_ luck isn't that bad. The Controller and >KnightMare at the same time? > *...no. It's worse.* > Roland, horrified, telepathically plays Sil's message to the CAoL. > Moments later... > *I have a very bad feeling about this...* Knytt makes his way to the bar, brow furrowed. As he sits in one of the ample chairs, he mutters "Mike, bless me." Holding the freshly-made God's Blessing under his nose, his eyes focus on the middle distance as he takes small sips from the mug. "Roland, first take some advise from the Megadodo Publishing company and 'Don't Panic'," somehow managing to enunciate large friendly letters. "I know how I would feel if it were Pyewackett, so that's especially why I say it." Knytt ran through the message in his mind. "Not clue one in the message that I can see. Where would Sil and her friend have been kidnapped from? That would be the best place to start looking for KnightMare..." "On to John," Knytt continued, taking a long gulp from the mug. "What happened?" Knytt smiled as he amended, "Besides that the Controller has him." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Thu, 30 Oct 1997 20:09:36 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001842 In alt.callahans Post # 00000055 Driscoll said: > On Thu, 30 Oct 1997 02:18:17 -0600 In Message # 00001841 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000054 Michael Jon Knight said: > > "On to John," Knytt continued, taking a long gulp from the mug. > "What happened?" Knytt smiled as he amended, "Besides that the > Controller has him." "Hmm first my brothers, then Xzerrion, then Morgan, now John ya know if I didn't know better I'd think The Controller was just lonely." Driss quips, accepting a bottle of Mongo Mead from Mike. (OOC: damn good stuff I just wish Mongo wasnt; so stingy with it hehehehehe) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Thu, 30 Oct 1997 23:14:35 -0600 In Message # 00001843 In alt.callahans Post # 00000056 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Thu, 30 Oct 1997 20:09:36 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001842 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000055 Driscoll said: > > "Hmm first my brothers, then Xzerrion, then Morgan, now John ya know >if I didn't know better I'd think The Controller was just lonely." >Driss quips, accepting a bottle of Mongo Mead from Mike. (OOC: damn >good stuff I just wish Mongo wasnt; so stingy with it hehehehehe) "Maybe we should all chip in and get him a GigaPet." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Fri, 31 Oct 97 01:12:37 PST In Message # 00001845 In alt.callahans Post # 00000058 Martin Gerster said: *****BEGINNING OF ORIGINAL MESSAGE****** On Thu, 30 Oct 1997 23:14:35 -0600 In Message # 00001843 In alt.callahans Post # 00000056 Michael Jon Knight said: "Maybe we should all chip in and get him a GigaPet." ****END OF ORIGINAL MESSAGE***** "Just between me and you, Knytt," quips the draconian Lensman, "He'd probably end up killing it." "But seriously, John gave Roland a note, which my brother was kind enough to pass along to me. It said that John and I ought to meet in a given fiction, an arabian fantasy fiction. Here, John had found a sword which he wanted Rhiannon, here, to have." Rhiannon smiles weakly and produces a heavy hand-and-a-half, broad-bladed sword, constructed of an undefinable snow-white metal and sheathed in an ornate, seemingly leather, sheath. "Obviously we got the sword, but just as we were leaving," continues the super-annuated Ruby Fire hatchling, "All of these Controllers, litteraly came pouring out of the woodwork. We essentialy had a choice; either have the four of us escape or get all five of us taken captured. The next thing we knew, John had somehow been captured and we got our... ahem... tails outta there as fast as posible." Seeing the glowering look that, a slowly self-repairing, Nimrod is still giving him, Dhyrchlanc concludes, "Nimrod wanted to fight our way back to John, and *then* fight our way out the hard way. Against his protests, I persuaded him that, in this case at least, descretion was the better part of valor. That's the story, What we do next is up to the rest of you people." Dhyrclhanc slowly moves his way up to the bar and says to Callahan, "Three Lord's Blessing's please, Mike." The burly barkeep hands him the drinks. Dhyrclhanc takes one for himself and distributes the other two to Rhiannon and Sythea. Rhiannon puts the sword back away and accepts hers graciously. Sythea happily accepts hers, takes a sip and begins to look better. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 18:21:32 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001846 In alt.callahans Post # 00000059 Dane0R0A said: In a message dated 97-10-31 08:04:02 EST, Xzerrion wrote: << Tezrantha pats him on the shoulder. "We'll do all right. You broke me out against worse odds, remember?" Xzerrion raises an eyebrow. "Yes, but this time we might not be able to count on your deity to send over two dragons to ...," he pauses, and looks at Dhyrclanc and the Stardragon, "... um, never mind." The horse chuckles again. >> /Then again, any being that believes itself to be up to taking on this group is either COMPLETELY megalomaniacly insane or wouldn't think twice about conquering one or more universes./ says The Stardragon. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 17:12:29 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001847 In alt.callahans Post # 00000060 Driscoll said: > On Fri, 31 Oct 97 01:12:37 PST In Message # 00001845 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000058 Martin Gerster said: > > Seeing the glowering look that, a slowly self-repairing, Nimrod is > still giving him, Dhyrchlanc concludes, "Nimrod wanted to fight our > way back to John, and *then* fight our way out the hard way. > Against his protests, I persuaded him that, in this case at least, > descretion was the better part of valor. That's the story, What we > do next is up to the rest of you people." > > Dhyrclhanc slowly moves his way up to the bar and says to Callahan, > "Three Lord's Blessing's please, Mike." > > The burly barkeep hands him the drinks. Dhyrclhanc takes one for > himself and distributes the other two to Rhiannon and Sythea. > Rhiannon puts the sword back away and accepts hers graciously. > Sythea happily accepts hers, takes a sip and begins to look better. "If The Controller is invovled I want to be as well." Booms an amplified voice from the other side of the room. Bootjets flare to life and a ren and silver metalic form flies across the room, shedding his overcoat and hat and landing in front of Roland. "The Controlelr and I have a long history, longer than you'd believe. I've been hanging out around here hoping for some word of him when he came out from under his rock. Allow me to interoduce myself. I'm called Iron Man." meanwhile a private conversating inside this armored man: #I still think you should have come up with an original name Justin.# #I'm hoping using this name and form will keep them from askign too many questions about who I really am. If I just made up a brand new identity I'd still have to prove myself to them before they're trust me.# #I guess. How do you even know that Roland know anything abotu this.. Marvel Fiction.# #I don't. but I have to chance it I couldn;t fina any suitable heroes from the same fiction as his Flash abilities. Iron Man is perfect for our needs.# OOC: I'll leave it up to Fuzzy whether Nemesis 1) even recognises this body as a creation of her design (kinda) and 2) If she can communicate with Jim, Justin's nanite colony. =========================== Subject: AAE Stranger in the Night On Sat, 01 Nov 1997 00:51:59 -0800 In Message # 00001849 In alt.callahans Post # 00000062 Gareth L Owen said: Elsewhere... In his cell Stranger slept and dreamed unquiet dreams. "Help us." The voices were calm but insistant "NO! ENOUGH!" "Help us. We need you." "NO! I'VE FOUGHT TOO LONG." "We need you." "CHOOSE ANOTHER! NOT ME! WHY ME?" "Help us." Suddenly he was falling, falling through the void. Suddenly on his feet, he was running down a long dimly lit tunnel. A chase, a pursuit. There was a spider, a very large spider. He gasped, almost crying out as he sat bolt upright in bed, sheets soaking wet, with a freight train running through the middle of his head. The veins stood out on his temples as he struggled to compose himself, gulping in great lungfuls of cold Spanish air. He swung his legs over the edge and stood up, walking over to a small bowl of water. He splashed some onto his face and rubbed it in. 'please. some peace. that's all i want.' He went back to bed and lay awake for a long time, trying to remember if he had been chasing the spider, or if it was the other way around. The Stranger =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 17:28:52 -0800 In Message # 00001850 In alt.callahans Post # 00000063 The Lone One said: On 28 Oct 1997 gamer wrote: > Driscoll looks her over with his normal cocky smirk on his face. > "trust me, if they'll accept help from _me_ again you're more than > welcome." "Hrm. And who might you be?" Raver lifts an eyebrow inquiringly, having not read the previous histories. "Since I happen to be a demon sharing this corporeal state with a semi-insane college student." *I resemble that remark.* *You must admit the truth of it.* *Grr...fine, but do you _have_ to advertise it?* *Heh.* In the background, various conversations are occurring, all of which Raver chooses to ignore in favor of hearing Driscoll's explanation. Almost as an aside, she adds to the group in general, "When do we get to have some excitement?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 20:52:33 -0600 In Message # 00001851 In alt.callahans Post # 00000064 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 17:12:29 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001847 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000060 > Driscoll said: > "If The Controller is invovled I want to be as well." Booms an >amplified voice from the other side of the room. Bootjets flare to >life and a ren and silver metalic form flies across the room, >shedding his overcoat and hat and landing in front of Roland. "The >Controlelr and I have a long history, longer than you'd believe. I've >been hanging out around here hoping for some word of him when he came >out from under his rock. Allow me to interoduce myself. I'm called >Iron Man." Knytt mumbles to no one in particular, "I thought Iron Man was red and gold. Or at least red and yellow." No one in particualr replies, "Maybe it's a new paint job." Knytt returns to sipping his Blessing. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Fri, 31 Oct 97 23:47:16 PST In Message # 00001852 In alt.callahans Post # 00000065 Martin Gerster said: *****BEGINNING OF ORIGINAL MESSAGE****** On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 20:52:33 -0600 In Message # 00001851 In alt.callahans Post # 00000064 Michael Jon Knight said: Knytt mumbles to no one in particular, "I thought Iron Man was red and gold. Or at least red and yellow." No one in particualr replies, "Maybe it's a new paint job." Knytt returns to sipping his Blessing. ****END OF ORIGINAL MESSAGE***** /#He is#/ interjects Dhyrclhanc and Nimrod, in telepathic stereo, to Knytt. (OOC: Nimrod is from a varient of the standard Marvel Universe and thus immediatly recognized that this is *not* Tony Stark for various reasons. Likewise, Dhyrclhanc's repeatedly visited the Marvel Universe and. while he never encountered the shellhead personally, just by manerisms and design of Justin's IM armor alone, he can tell that Justin isn't the "genuine article". While Nimrod has no compulsion to not share his knowlege, for now at least, Dhyrclhanc won't be sharing his knowlege unless he feels he realy needs to.) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Sat, 1 Nov 1997 13:57:01 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001853 In alt.callahans Post # 00000066 Driscoll said: > On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 17:28:52 -0800 In Message # 00001850 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000063 The Lone One wrote: > > "Hrm. And who might you be?" Raver lifts an eyebrow inquiringly, > having not read the previous histories. "Since I happen to be a > demon sharing this corporeal state with a semi-insane college > student." > *I resemble that remark.* > *You must admit the truth of it.* > *Grr...fine, but do you _have_ to advertise it?* > *Heh.* Driss removes his hat and bows deeply and with great flourish, "Since I'm sure anyone here would correct any... embellishments I might create, I am Driscoll of Braxton. Rogue, Varlet, Theif, Con Man, Duelist, Wanderer, Immortal, former Harlequin God of Quaran and current plaything of the embodiment of Chaos." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Sat, 1 Nov 1997 14:02:26 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001854 In alt.callahans Post # 00000067 Driscoll said: > On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 20:52:33 -0600 In Message # 00001851 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000064 Michael Jon Knight said: > > Knytt mumbles to no one in particular, "I thought Iron Man was red > and gold. Or at least red and yellow." > > No one in particualr replies, "Maybe it's a new paint job." > > Knytt returns to sipping his Blessing. #I knew we should have taken the up to date version Justin!# #I thought it looked ugly. I like this one.# "Iron Man has had many differnt styles in the past as well as many men behind the mask. But the heart and integrity of those men has always been of the highest quality. This particular suit is from the days of the West Coast Avengers, recently brought back into action." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Sat, 1 Nov 1997 03:50:10 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001856 In alt.callahans Post # 00000069 Dane0R0A said: In a message dated 97-10-31 23:48:13 EST, Knytt wrote: << Knytt mumbles to no one in particular, "I thought Iron Man was red and gold. Or at least red and yellow." No one in particualr replies, "Maybe it's a new paint job." Knytt returns to sipping his Blessing. >> /Iron Man has been - Grey; Red and Yellow; Red and Gold; and Yellow - to my recollection./ The Stardragon offers /With Tony Stark being replaced he could easily have chosen to redo the armor./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Sat, 1 Nov 1997 21:00:51 -0600 In Message # 00001857 In alt.callahans Post # 00000070 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Sat, 1 Nov 1997 14:02:26 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001854 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000067 Driscoll said: > "Iron Man has had many differnt styles in the past as well as many >men behind the mask. But the heart and integrity of those men has >always been of the highest quality. This particular suit is from the >days of the West Coast Avengers, recently brought back into action." Knytt smiles, releasing the mug of Irish coffee, which obediantly hovers steadily in place before him, as he spreads his hands in a gesture of acceptance. "No offense intended. I apparently am only acquainted with one varient on the Iron Man theme." Knytt reaches into his inner breast pocket, withdraws a five-dollar bill and slaps it into the palm of no one in particular. /The name Iron Man doesn't impress me any more than any other. That is not a good thing or a bad thing. If he wants to help, I'll welcome him in as I would anyone else. Unless someone has a reason not to?/ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Sat, 1 Nov 97 19:07:24 -0800 In Message # 00001858 In alt.callahans Post # 00000071 Roland X said: >On Fri, 31 Oct 1997 17:12:29 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001847 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000060 Driscoll said: > > "If The Controller is invovled I want to be as well." Booms an >amplified voice from the other side of the room. Bootjets flare to >life and a ren and silver metalic form flies across the room, >shedding his overcoat and hat and landing in front of Roland. "The >Controlelr and I have a long history, longer than you'd believe. I've >been hanging out around here hoping for some word of him when he came >out from under his rock. Allow me to interoduce myself. I'm called >Iron Man." Roland laughs. "Of course. Something made it inevitable. I'm Roland, and this is the jokingly named Army of Light. We're Callahanians; we do pretty much _everything_ jokingly. If this were any other place, I'd wonder how you found it, but this is the Place. "By the way, give Mr. Stark my regards." *Relax, folx, IM is one of the good guys, no matter _what_ Marvel tries to tell you. I couldn't be happier if Hal had just shown up. I'll leave it to shell-head whether or not he wants to reveal his secret ID; it's humorous, but not a big deal to us really.* Knytt also said: > Knytt mumbles to no one in particular, "I thought Iron Man was red > and gold. Or at least red and yellow." Martin added: >/#He is#/ interjects Dhyrclhanc and Nimrod, in telepathic stereo, >to Knytt. gamer replied: > #I knew we should have taken the up to date version Justin!# > #I thought it looked ugly. I like this one.# > "Iron Man has had many differnt styles in the past as well as many >men behind the mask. But the heart and integrity of those men has >always been of the highest quality. This particular suit is from the >days of the West Coast Avengers, recently brought back into action." "I can vouch for the former, if not the latter. Iron Man _did_ have a red-and-silver style for a time. Stark Enterprises was having some...trouble at the time." Then, >On Mon, 27 Oct 1997 15:13:15 -0800 In Message # 00001827 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000040 The Lone One said: > > Mandy looks up from where she's been savoring a bar of chocolate, >and blinks. "A problem? Anyone care to clarify for us?" > A nearby patron explains Roland and his SO's origins and the fact >that when they say there's a problem, there's a problem. An annoyed >expression crosses her face, and she draws herself up to her full >5'3" height. Suddenly, she seems to turn into mist before coalescing >as Raver. This is not the half-friendly demon that Callahanites know >-- this is a stranger with the expression of someone who'd be quite >delighted to roast unlucky enemies over a slow fire and crack jokes >while doing it. > Raver is clad in a strange combination of silver plate and chain >mail, a halberd and a pack slung over her shoulders. "Would a demon >be welcome on your quest, human?" Roland chuckles. "If you're welcome in the Place, then you're welcome with us, no matter what you are. We've had all manner of beings among our number, and we even allow punning in our ranks. Compared to that, a demon is almost ..anticlimactic." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Sun, 02 Nov 97 11:14:39 PST In Message # 00001859 In alt.callahans Post # 00000072 Martin Gerster said: : On Sat, 1 Nov 1997 14:02:26 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001854 : In alt.callahans Post # 00000067 Driscoll said: : "Iron Man has had many differnt styles in the past as well as : many men behind the mask. But the heart and integrity of those : men has always been of the highest quality. This particular suit : is from the days of the : West Coast Avengers, recently brought : back into action." To which Dhyrclhanc interjects, "Ah, that's the 'Silver Sphinx' armor,then? Personaly, I always liked that suit. This is the suit previously worn in the eras between your, or perhaps one of your predcesors', duel with the Iron Monger and the duel with Firepower. Is this corect?" =========================== Subject: Re: Dhyrclhanc's Return, etc. (Long!) On Sun, 02 Nov 97 14:44:45 PST In Message # 00001860 In alt.callahans Post # 00000073 Martin Gerster said: In Callahan's an X-window opens showing the following exchange taking place: > On Weds, Oct. 29th, Martin Gerster wrote > Dhyrclhanc's Lens flares as brightly as the heart of a captured, > minature, star. Looking around and seeing no one he says, "I'll > admit that speaking to a 21' tall Ruby Fire 'Lensdragon' can be > intimidating but I'd appriciate it if you'd show yourself. With whom > am I speaking?" >> On Sat, Nov 1st, Jade wrote >> The wolf padds forth slowly and raises her chin...then deciding >> that this form is not as effective she shifts to furry (part human >> part wolf) and steps forward a bit more.."It is I that speaks >> thus.. I am Lady Jade Spirtwolf..Jade you may call me. I am a >> resident wolf here in the dominace for some time. I would like to >> adopt this hatchling if possiple for even though I am not truly >> dragon and shift to that form I believe I could care for it and >> that is part of my nature to help those in need, and I have 2 cubs >> as I said...if you would consider it :::bows to him formally::: Dhyrclhanc politly waits until the she-wolf finishes introducing herself. Then, he returns the bow to her (ever see a 21' tall dragon bow formally? Trust me, it's impresive) };8) As he straightens up, he says, "Milady Jade, my remark was not indended to insult. If it was so then, if it please you, I consider myself thoroughly and humbly rebuked. I have duties which keep me away from the Dominance for a long time and I obviously missed you arrivial. This was, to be sure, my loss." Realizing the foolishness of the juxaposition of their resective sizes, Dhyrclhanc pauses and his size, shape and clothes change. At his full height of 21' tall, he is a semi-humaniod, european dragon wearing a black and grey long coat with a silver-colored B-5-style "Ranger's" broach pin, and a green long-vest with wide, black trim. Along with this is a dragon-sized leather baldric and belt with a giant red-purple, crystal sword sheathed in it. Now he is an 8' tall, humaniod pteradactyl the color of the rising sun but still retains his dragon's wings. He is still wearing the coat, vest and baldrick but now he's also wearing an 18th century, purple, swordman's shirt; a second, smaller, leather belt; black knee breaches; black leather gauntlets; black, cloth, berret; and the sword is now sheathed at his waist. "In this form, I'm called the 'Lens-T'Skrang'," he jokes, as he kneels down and kisses her hand. Picking up the tube, with the sleeping hatchling still in it, he offers it to her, "The child has somewhat of a long and confusing history. Although I'm somewhat loathe to tell it, I'll share it with you if you like. However, on something of an unreleated note, you wouldn't know where there would be a Lair open for occupency, would you?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Sun, 2 Nov 1997 19:47:18 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001861 In alt.callahans Post # 00000074 The Lone One said: On Sat, 1 Nov 1997, Roland X wrote: > Roland chuckles. "If you're welcome in the Place, then you're > welcome with us, no matter what you are. We've had all manner of > beings among our number, and we even allow punning in > our ranks. Compared to that, a demon is almost..anticlimactic." "Ah. Very well, then." Raver inclined her head briefly. *Anticlimactic? Me? Humans.* *Watch that ego, chica. You know what they say about Pride being one of the Seven Deadly Sins.* *As if I need to with you keeping watch on me.* *Of course. Remember, technically, this is my body, and I want it in one piece for a long time, thanks.* *We have been over this before. I repeat, I will not damage it, and I could not, even if I wanted to. How many times must I repeat myself?* Instead of replying verbally, Mandy sent a burst of amused concession before retreating behind the border that divided their minds. The next instant, she was back. *Did you hear what Roland said?* *He said that it was anti-* *No, before that! He said, and I quote, "By the way, give Mr. Stark my regards."* *So?* *Don't you get what it means? That means him and Iron Man are from Marvel fictions, or at least are familiar with 'em!* *Ah.* Raver filed that tidbit away for future reference. She knew that Mandy would fill in any gaps as they came up, and turned to see what the other members of the group were doing. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 4 Nov 1997 17:24:56 -0600 In Message # 00001864 In alt.callahans Post # 00000077 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Wed, 29 Oct 97 14:10:18 -0800 In Message # 00001836 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000049 Roland X said: > Several villainous lairs throught infinity... > A shimmering appears near the heart of activity >in many otherwise-impregnable fortresses. A human >takes form first, then if that projection is not >dispelled, a cross between a Shadow and a Love- >craftian Old One follows. On the mining planet, Androsia 4... ----------------------------------------------------------- In the palace bedchamber: > "Who are you?!" > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. > "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. >"The proper question is, 'What do you want?' So, what do _you_ want?" The thirteen year-old boy stared at the Spidery abomination and its human associate. "I am King Alistar the First, I have want of nothing. Leave here before I summon the guards!" ----------------------------------------------------------- In a nearby hallway: > "Who are you?!" > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. > "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. >"The proper question is, 'What do you want?' So, what do _you_ want?" Masterson looked the human over carefully. "That would depend entirely on who is doing the asking, young man. I demand to know to whom I am speaking before giving such an answer. And why it would be so important to a complete stranger." ------------------------------------------------------------ In the palace water garden: > "Who are you?!" > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. > "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. >"The proper question is, 'What do you want?' So, what do _you_ want?" Arnaska, the Roofasan ambassador, flicked his long tongue in annoyance, before croaking a curt reply. "Whaaaat is it to you, huuuuman?" the amphibian shot back. ------------------------------------------------------------ In her suite: > "Who are you?!" > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. > "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. >"The proper question is, 'What do you want?' So, what do _you_ want?" Anna looked back to her workbench. "Your absence, Shadow." ------------------------------------------------------------ In the palace's catacombs: > "Who are you?!" > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. > "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. >"The proper question is, 'What do you want?' So, what do _you_ want?" The Skix'tasis ambassador stopped its scuttling through the hall and flexed its mandibles. Its antenae twitched. "Who are _you_?" it repeated, "What do _you_ want?" ------------------------------------------------------------ In another palace hallway: "Who--?! Oh. We've been expecting you." KnightMare looks shocked. "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. "The proper question is,...WHAT DID YOU SAY!?!" The elderly Earth Ambassador and his wife looked at the Shadow, at Thorne, and, with a knowing smile, at each other. With a blinding flash of white light, the couple vanished, leaving Thorne and Knightmare alone. Thorne stepped to where the eldery couple were last standing, stopping as something crunched beneath his feet. A small scrap of paper amid a large pile of crumbs lay on the ground before Thorne. He picked it up. The fortune read: "Crab Rangoon." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 5 Nov 1997 12:45:33 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001865 In alt.callahans Post # 00000078 Shadow said: > On Wed, 29 Oct 97 14:10:18 -0800 In Message # 00001836 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000049 Roland X said: Jadis's base, Wamphyri subwing: The Wamphyri, eyes burning like coals, reaches for his gauntlet at this intrusion into his presence. > "Who are you?!" > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. > "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. "The proper > question is, 'What do you want?' "Very well, What do you want? Be quick, for my curiousity for two cowards afraid to appear before me in the flesh is limited." Jadis's base, north tower: The blood mage turns at the feel of power in the air... > "Who are you?!" > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. > "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. "The proper > question is, 'What do you want?' "Power, and," he pauses, as if he doesn't even dare think this thought, "freedom." Jadis base, viewing room: All the monitors turn off automatically as Jadis allows the sending into his base, > "Who are you?!" > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. > "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. "The proper > question is, 'What do you want?' Jadis pours himself a glass of bourbon at the bar, "What can you offer me that I cannot provide for myself?" He tosses it off and waits for the reply. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy (3 of 3) On Wed, 5 Nov 1997 13:16:32 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001866 In alt.callahans Post # 00000079 Shadow said: > On Wed, 29 Oct 1997 09:44:09 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001835 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000048 "P. Campbell" said: > > Xzerrion smiles grimly. "Once again, enter the CAoL. Rescue missions > and antiterror a specialty. Anybody have a location for this one > yet?" Despite his tone, the more perceptive members of the group > note that he seems a bit nervous. > > Tezrantha pats him on the shoulder. "We'll do all right. You broke > me out against worse odds, remember?" > > Xzerrion raises an eyebrow. "Yes, but this time we might not be able > to count on your deity to send over two dragons to ...," he pauses, > and looks at Dhyrclanc and the Stardragon, "... um, never mind." > > The horse chuckles again. As Xzerrion asks for a location, something seems to occur to Rhiannon, she mulls the idea for a few seconds, then decides to try it. Her blue eyes, if anything, turn even colder. "My bond with my uncle is strong, we've had it ever since I can remember. If he were dead, I would know, time and space would not matter. Also, in some way I don't really understand, he and this sword are linked. If someone would erect a mindsheild against the effect of the sword?... Thank you." So saying she pulls loose the sword, which begins to darken in color in anticipation. As it clears the sheath a wave of despair rolls out from it, a slightly mad babble seems to whisper, only to hit the sheild and be stopped. In the center of this Rhiannon stands, sword held point down before her. Grounding the point in the floor, she reaches for John, willing the sword to bolster her and reach as well. Slowly an image forms, not of John's familiar ghostly visage, but of a box. Wavering and indistinct, it floats in mid-air, and from it John's surprised /voice/ comes. /Rhia, did you make it?/ /Yes, uncle, I'm with the CAoL, where are you?/ /Then it was worth it. I cannot tell where I'm at. I was trapped, captured, the whole thing was aimed to get me and you. Stay away child, for now it is more important for them to get you than Aaaauuughhhhh.../ /UNCLE!/ With that the connection is broken, and the box fades from view with blue lightning playing over it's surface. Glowing into view, but also fading as well, the last sight is not the box but a ring. Rhiannon hands slowly relax their deathgrip on the sword, which is now black as night in response to it's owners emotions. As she masters herself, she also masters the sword, and it's projection and _voice_ fade down to nothing. She resheathes it, and the mindsheild falls. OOC: Ok, I"M ready to get going now. Roland, I believe you are starting us off here? =========================== From: gamer Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 14:20:44 -0700 (MST) Subject: Re: OOC: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy > >On Wed, 29 Oct 97 14:10:18 -0800 In Message # 00001836 > > In alt.callahans Post # 00000049 Roland X said: Edmund Moriarty sits at his 150 year old mahogany desk, slowly editing his latest collection of supervillian case files. The smell of old paper and leather from the various tomes that line the study's walls, and the peaceful silence always put him in the proper mood for such tedious tasks. Then suddenly KNightMare and Dr. Thorne appear before him. "Who are you?!" He asks, trying to keep his voice calm and level while his foot slips over a pressure swtich on the floor that activates a forcefield around hte desk and sends a silent alarm to his guards. KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. "No, no, no," Thorne says patiently, smiling. "The proper question is, 'What do you want?' So, what do _you_ want?" Four guards burst into the room. Two wear exoskeletal battlesuits, one appears to be covered in ice, adn the fourth wears a trenchcoat and fedora hat andf stands there, hands and eyes glowing brightly. Moriarty puts up a hand to pause their attack. "To come here like this without power enough to back yourselves up would be truly an idiotic thing to do. Therefore I shall assume the best. You come asking me what I want. but what I want is what all men want. Power. My question is, how can you add to my power? And what do you want in exchange?" =========================== Subject: Re: OOC: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy Date: Wed, 5 Nov 97 20:31:30 -0800 From: Roland X Driscoll said: > KnightMare looks vaguely annoyed. "No, no, no," Thorne says >patiently, smiling. "The proper question is, 'What do you want?' So, >what do _you_ want?" > Four guards burst into the room. Two wear exoskeletal battlesuits, >one appears to be covered in ice, adn the fourth wears a trenchcoat >and fedora hat andf stands there, hands and eyes glowing brightly. >Moriarty puts up a hand to pause their attack. "To come here like >this without power enough to back yourselves up would be truly an >idiotic thing to do. Therefore I shall assume the best. You come >asking me what I want. but what I want is what all men want. Power. >My question is, how can you add to my power? And what do you want in >exchange?" Thorne smiles as KnightMare fades out with...amusement? Satisfaction? Gratification? "That depends on you, sir," Thorne replies. "What is the..._extent_ of your vision? I would imagine-" KnightMare holds up its-claw? tentacle? and Thorne grows silent. *Power. A simple enough request. I would expect that, given your activities in this reality, that it is dominion over others that you desire. Given your intellect, I calculate that you could govern this galaxy, if such is your desire. The entire universe would stretch your resources, though I suspect that it would not overwhelm them. *Physical power, of course, would be simple. You obviously have the capacity to provide yourself with such, however. *I propose a simple business arangement. You will delay some...irritants that it has been my displeasure to encounter, and I will arrange for the downfall of all of your adversaries in this reality. *I will not delude you. These 'irritants' are a collection of interdimensional meddlers much like the 'heroes' of your world. They have somehow amassed enough power to defeat most ancient forces and great powers. But they lack finesse. You will keep them occupied for as long as your forces are capable, and I will return to remove your enemies upon success. *As a token of...good faith,* KnightMare finishes, with a chuckle like broken glass on metal, *I will remove one such irritant from your reality.* KnightMare fades. "Just pick a target," Thorne says finally, and leans back to wait... =========================== From: gamer Date: Thu, 6 Nov 1997 16:35:27 -0700 (MST) Subject: Re: OOC: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 5 Nov 1997, Roland X wrote: > KnightMare fades. > "Just pick a target," Thorne says finally, and leans back to > wait... Moriarty is silent for an uncomforatbly long time after they duo finish. Staring with penetrating eyes all the while. Thinking processes all but visible in the air before him. Finally he waves the guards out. "There is infact only one _true_ kind of power. Physical power is an oxymoron. Superhuman power is an illusion. The sword my be unbreakable. The Arm may be powerfully strong, but without the brain to direct it, it is nothing. I want to be that brain, directing everything before me. I control much in secret now yes, but there are still obsticles in my way. Targets I can not remove without damning myself or open warfare. if your power could do this it would indeed be an asset I would bargain for. "But these "irritants" you name. You wish me to delay a force of unknown ability for an indeterminate amount of time to complete my end of the transaction. I have someone in mind who has been a force to be reconed with against even the most powerful heroes of this world. I will send him against your irritants as a trial. But if their conflict shows me little hope of success on my part. I reserve the right to cancel the deal, as well as retain your token for my loss. "And of that token you spoke, simple elimination of a target would take time to verify. any visions or transportations you could do to prove it to me could easily be faked. But there _is_ a target which would impress me greatly. A man-made monstrosity of an Automaton by the name of Wrecker. Nearly completely mindless and seemingly invulverable to any physical force or energy. He has often interfered with one of my plans, appearing when least desired. Cause him to appear here. Completely docile and under my control. Do this, and we have a bargain." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Thu, 6 Nov 97 21:10:06 -0800 In Message # 00001867 In alt.callahans Post # 00000080 Roland X said: > "But these "irritants" you name. You wish me to delay a force of >unknown ability for an indeterminate amount of time to complete my >end of the transaction. I have someone in mind who has been a force >to be reconed with against even the most powerful heroes of this >world. I will send him against your irritants as a trial. But if >their conflict shows me little hope of success on my part. I reserve >the right to cancel the deal, as well as retain your token for my >loss. Thorne frowns. "KnightMare...agrees," he says grudgingly. "It says that a minimum of one day is required to fulfill your end of the bargain...and that one universe will be ceded to you to rule for each day of success." > "And of that token you spoke, simple elimination of a target would >take time to verify. any visions or transportations you could do to >prove it to me could easily be faked. But there _is_ a target which >would impress me greatly. A man-made monstrosity of an Automaton by >the name of Wrecker. Nearly completely mindless and seemingly >invulverable to any physical force or energy. He has often interfered >with one of my plans, appearing when least desired. Cause him to >appear here. Completely docile and under my control. Do this, and we >have a bargain." Thorne's frown vanishes. "Mindless, you say. I presume that mentalists are rare on your world...one moment." Thorne concentrates. *I was concerned that his request might be more difficult,* KnightMare sends to its servant, and reaches out a tentacled pincer. A vial of viscous, oily fluid writhes within. A few words that the most obscene of Unseelie would tremble at, and the liquid begins to glow. The Marianas Trench... An unstoppable robotic force rages at any creatures unfortunate enough to cross its path. It looks up at a strange spectrum of energies that appears in front of it. A gesture from KnightMare and the cyborg's thoughts calm; the Shadow's eyes glow and its pain fades. The vial opens, and the fluid flows into the machine through its joints. It straightens, then bows. KnightMare and Wrecker appear in the chamber of Moriarty, and the android falls to one knee before the criminal mastermind. *You requested this...creature? I was under the impression that mere force was unimpressive to you. Keep it. Should you choose to serve me, far more impressive constructs will be at your disposal. In the meantime, I await your response. *Incidentally, I will increase your mental processing powers to the extent that you will be able to administer your multiversal demense with ease on success. True intellect cannot be tampered with so easily...however, it seems that such will not be an issue with you. Unless you wish to risk permanent synapse pattern alteration.* Thorne laughs, and both entities fade out, leaving only a jet black clamshell-shaped object that is (to Moriarty) obviously a communication device of some sort... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Fri, 7 Nov 1997 16:45:54 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001868 In alt.callahans Post # 00000081 Driscoll said: > On Thu, 6 Nov 97 21:10:06 -0800 In Message # 00001867 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000080 Roland X said: > > Thorne frowns. "KnightMare...agrees," he says grudgingly. "It > says that a minimum of one day is required to fulfill your end of > the bargain...and that one universe will be ceded to you to rule > for each day of success." Moritarty nods, his facedevoid of expression. "Those terms are acceptable to me." > KnightMare and Wrecker appear in the chamber of Moriarty, and the > android falls to one knee before the criminal mastermind. > *You requested this...creature? I was under the impression that > mere force was unimpressive to you. Keep it. Should you choose to > serve me, far more impressive constructs will be at your disposal. > In the meantime, I await your response. A crack of a smile comes to Moriraty's lips. "Physical power as a reward or a threat does not impress me in the least. But as a tool it is always welcome. And Wrecker is a very fine tool indeed. Heroes have an uncanny way of finding each other. Your enemies teamed with mine could be very disasterous indeed to this project. But Wrecker will keep my enemies more than busy trying to avoid an international incident and war in the Middle East while my operative, Lunitic. takes on your irritants." >*Incidentally, I will increase your mental processing powers to the > extent that you will be able to administer your multiversal demense > with ease on success. True intellect cannot be tampered with so > easily...however, it seems that such will not be an issue with you. > Unless you wish to risk permanent synapse pattern alteration.* > Thorne laughs, and both entities fade out, leaving only a jet > black clamshell-shaped object that is (to Moriarty) obviously a > communication device of some sort... Moriarty slips it into his suit pocket and lifts the reciever on his telephone. Pushing a button for the internal line he wishes, "Carmen. Attend me now." One of the exoframed bodyguards re-enters the office and shinks back at the sight of Wrecker. Seeing that the 9 foot tall robot isn't moving, he regains his composure and moves quickly to stand before the desk. Moriarty shoots him a digusted look. "I hope you can handle that fear of Wrecker. The two of you are to load yourselves aboard one of my specially equipped cargo planes and smuggle yourselves into Israel. Wrecker! Obey Carmen's commands as if they were my own until I order otherwise." The robot moves its head towards Carmen, scraping off some barnacles from his neck in so doing. Carmen winces for a moment and then notices the giant robot is awaiting his orders. "Ummm yeh, uh come along Amigo. We have a plane to catch." The two leave the office. Moriarty picks up the phone again. Dialing long distance he waits only a moment before it is answered. "Willie? Hello you old toyman you. I've been going over your case file some more and was wondering if you could come out for say a week or two for me to take a few more tests. We'll end your presky multiple personalities yet! I'll never give up faith in you. You can? Good." He hangs up the phone and smiles broadly. "Good." =========================== Subject: AAE IV: Grep the New Guy... On Sat, 8 Nov 1997 07:22:08 -0600 In Message # 00001873 In alt.callahans Post # 00000086 Michael Jon Knight said: As Knytt and the rest of the CAoL discuss their options, Knytt notices his pager beeping as well as vibrating. "Must be serious," he mutters as he pulls the small device off his belt. "Great Scott!" he exclaims, leaping out of his chair, his coffee weaving through the air to rest on the bar, "After ten years, I've got a new lead!" Knytt bolts through the outside door then back in. "Guys, make your plans, I'll catch up quick as I can! No, wait, better still, I'll leave a replacement in my stead until I can return." Knytt turns and holds open the door as he stares at the _Goldstar_ in the parking lot. The Gateway Band's lenses flare as Knytt says, "Download Gateway Revised Expert Program...Assume Default Form: Zero." The _Goldstar_ seems to melt and reform. A muscular male humanoid form, 6 feet tall, clad in a shiny gold skintight costume that covers from head to toe. The costume has a faint circuitry design etched into the material. Where the eyes would be on the mask, two almond-shaped lenses glow faintly with a shimmering similar to a CD in the sun. Their composition appears to be the same as the Lenses on the Gateway Bands Knytt wears. As the ?human? enters the bar, over the Psi-link a gentle sound similar to the chimes from Windows 3.1 rings. Vocally as well as through the link, Grep says, "/Contact confirmed. Gateway/Nanoalloy Colony Version 15.3 Running Gateway Revised Expert Program Version 12.01. All systems operating within specified tolerances. Ready./" "Uh, gang, meet GREP, Grep activate user profiles CAoL. Standard autonomous operation in effect. It's what's left of the original Expert system I got when I got the Gateway Bands. He can tell you more if you want. You're all on the friendly novice list. Grep knows you won't know how to use it and will seek out ways it can be of service on it's own. If you need me, yell or ask Grep to contact me. I'll check in when I get a chance. If this lead pans out...well, 'wow' will pretty well sum it up. Life, the Universe, EVERYthing...wow!" Before anyone can get a chance to get a word in, Knytt has vanished through one of his 'holes in reality.' Grep looks around. "/Standby mode. Awaiting activity./" ===========================