Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 4 Chapter 2 Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Mon, 10 Nov 97 15:38:21 -0800 In Message # 00001883 In alt.callahans Post # 00000096 Roland X said: >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: >> 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. *Naturally. It would seem that our collaboration will be mutually...beneficial.* >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." KnightMare looks away for a moment, then nods its approval. Also, On Wed, 5 Nov 1997 13:16:32 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001866 In alt.callahans Post # 00000079 Shadow said: >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. While the CAoL ponders this, a familiar form appears as a hologram in their midst. The Controller. "You fools have pestered me long enough," the signature metallic voice rasps. "I have your useless friend in another reality. Here are the transpatial coordinates." The mockery of a face makes an appropriate mockery of a smile. "That is, if any of you have the courage you claim." "He has to be kidding," Morgan cracks, "He _has_ to know us better than that by now." "If you don't, of course...symbiotes have _so_ many possibilities." The hologram looks at Morgan in rage, at Driscoll with naked hate, at Rhiannon with undisguised curiosity, and at Iron Man in- -confusion? The hologram vanishes. Nowhen... KnightMare smiles as its hologram generator reappears in its antiverse. /Excellent. Everything is proceeding on schedule. Now to ensure that the Controller is _truly_ working with me./ It turns and creates another X-Window. *So, 'Controller,' as you call yourself,* it hisses, *what do _you_ want?* =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Mon, 10 Nov 1997 18:31:39 -0600 In Message # 00001885 In alt.callahans Post # 00000098 Michael Jon Knight said: \>On Mon, 10 Nov 97 15:38:21 -0800 In Message # 00001883 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000096 Roland X said: > > The hologram looks at Morgan in rage, at Driscoll with naked hate, >at Rhiannon with undisguised curiosity, and at Iron Man in- > -confusion? > The hologram vanishes. Grep's "eyes", actually twin almond-shaped lenses similar to the CAoL's mind linking variety, flash through each color of the spectrum for a moment. "/Gateway calculations completed from transspacial coordinates. A gateway to that location may now be opened if pursuit is desired./" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Mon, 10 Nov 1997 19:17:49 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001886 In alt.callahans Post # 00000099 "P. Campbell" said: On Mon, 10 Nov 1997, Roland X wrote: > While the CAoL ponders this, a familiar form appears as a > hologram in their midst. > The Controller. Xzerrion glares over, but does not otherwise react, having more than enough experience with illusion to recognize it when he sees it. > "You fools have pestered me long enough," the signature metallic > voice rasps. "I have your useless friend in another reality. Here > are the transpatial coordinates." The mockery of a face makes an > appropriate mockery of a smile. "That is, if any of you have the > courage you claim." Xzerrion calmly suggests that the Controllor perform several entertaining, but anatomically impossible, sexual acts with itself, assuming it can locate the proper organs using its photoreceptors at maximum magnification. > "He has to be kidding," Morgan cracks, "He _has_ to know us better > than that by now." "Never underestimate the stupidity of your enemies, Lady Morgan." > "If you don't, of course...symbiotes have _so_ many > possibilities." > The hologram looks at Morgan in rage, at Driscoll with naked > hate, at Rhiannon with undisguised curiosity, and at Iron Man in- > -confusion? > The hologram vanishes. "Well," Xzerrion asks, "Now what?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Mon, 10 Nov 1997 20:18:18 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001887 In alt.callahans Post # 00000100 fuzzy said: > On Mon, 10 Nov 1997 18:31:39 -0600 In Message # 00001885 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000098 Michael Jon Knight said: > > Grep's "eyes", actually twin almond-shaped lenses similar to the > CAoL's mind linking variety, flash through each color of the > spectrum for a moment. > > "/Gateway calculations completed from transspacial coordinates. A > gateway to that location may now be opened if pursuit is desired./" \Grep, Can we coordinate gate structures so that the majority of the team arrives in astral space, while The StarDragon and a group of Nemisis splits disguised as the team arrives in normal space as a distraction. Sorry StarDragon nothing we have can do a reasonable immitation of you.\ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Mon, 10 Nov 1997 23:25:19 -0600 In Message # 00001888 In alt.callahans Post # 00000101 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Mon, 10 Nov 1997 20:18:18 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001887 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000100 fuzzy said: > >\Grep, Can we coordinate gate structures so that the majority of the >team arrives in astral space, while The StarDragon and a group of >Nemisis splits disguised as the team arrives in normal space as a >distraction. > Sorry StarDragon nothing we have can do a reasonable immitation of >you.\ /Affirmative, Fuzzy./ The spectrum passes across the eyes again. /Calculations complete. Alterante gateways to Controller's coordinates and same coordinates in Astral space ready for initiation./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 01:38:15 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001889 In alt.callahans Post # 00000102 Dane0R0A said: << "/Gateway calculations completed from transspacial coordinates. A gateway to that location may now be opened if pursuit is desired./" --Grep >> The Stardragon offers /It might be better for me to go there first. He lacks the power to harm me, much less kill me./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 01:46:18 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001890 In alt.callahans Post # 00000103 Dane0R0A said: << \Grep, Can we coordinate gate structures so that the majority of the team arrives in astral space, while The StarDragon and a group of Nemisis splits disguised as the team arrives in normal space as a distraction. Sorry StarDragon nothing we have can do a reasonable immitation of you.\ >> The Stardragon responds /That's alright. As I said (ooc: in another post on this subthread), the Controller lacks the power to harm me. I should be careful in astral space, were I you, he just might be expecting such a move, and have his traps there instead of physical space./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 00:20:52 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001891 In alt.callahans Post # 00000104 fuzzy said: > On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 01:46:18 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001890 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000103 Dane0R0A said: > > The Stardragon responds /That's alright. As I said (ooc: in another > post on this subthread), the Controller lacks the power to harm me. > I should be careful in astral space, were I you, he just might be > expecting such a move, and have his traps there instead of physical > space./ \There is also the minor point that only a nit-wit would not be aware of your presence..., especially if he is expecting you. You are correct we may have over used that gambit, instead, maybe we should use the elemental plane of Air. Anyone got an opinion? Grep, you are aware that we may be observed departing? We will need to make it appear that there is only one gate from this end. \ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 97 08:18:36 CST In Message # 00001894 In alt.callahans Post # 00000107 Mike Knight said: >On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 00:20:52 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001891 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000104 fuzzy said: > >Grep, you are aware that we may be observed departing? > We will need to make it appear that there is only one gate from this >end. >\ /The standard gateway would be unfeasible for such a purpose. Two options are reccomended. One is to choose a third location as a branch point to travel to before going to the Controller's coordinates. Two is to perform a fourth dimentional gateway, where the gates would be traced around the three dimentions the CAoL inhabit. The gates could then be moved through that fourth dimention, transporting the CAoL to the specified locations without forcing a detour to a third location./ /This latter method would have the drawback of leaving the Stardragon behind. A scan of the energies comprising the entity designated the stardragon would be required. I have been informed that such scans are not to be performed on said entity. However, I have also been informed said entity has a human form that might be able to be outlined, if said energies could be contained within the visible corporeal shell. Any energies left outside the shell would remain here when transport took place. An equivalent, projections indicate, to amputation of a limb./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 09:30:06 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001895 In alt.callahans Post # 00000108 fuzzy said: > On Tue, 11 Nov 97 08:18:36 CST In Message # 00001894 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000107 Mike Knight said: > > /This latter method would have the drawback of leaving the > Stardragon behind. A scan of the energies comprising the entity > designated the stardragon would be required. I have been informed > that such scans are not to be performed on said entity. However, I > have also been informed said entity has a human form that might be > able to be outlined, if said energies could be contained within the > visible corporeal shell. Any energies left outside the shell would > remain here when transport took place. An equivalent, projections > indicate, to amputation of a limb./ \The Instruction you were given about scanning The StarDragon is entirely accurate. Nemisis and I, have gate generation capabilities that are in part similar to yours, unfortunatly with less flexible interface manifestation. If one of us were to open a gate to the Controller's Trap location, could you use the second method you listed to route selected individuals to the Elemental Plane of Air at a co-incident location as they seem to enter the obvious gate?\ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 97 15:42:44 CST In Message # 00001897 In alt.callahans Post # 00000110 Mike Knight said: >On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 09:30:06 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001895 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000108 fuzzy said: > If one of us were to open a gate to the Controller's Trap location, >could you use the second method you listed to route selected >individuals to the Elemental Plane of Air at a co-incident location >as they seem to enter the obvious gate?\ /Affirmative. Astral-bound members should pause momentarily before entering the gate. Outlines will be created and as each member steps forward through the gate, they will actually be stepping through to the astral plane./ =========================== Subject: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 18:21:08 In Message # 00001899 In alt.callahans Post # 00000112 Morgan said: >On Tue, 11 Nov 97 15:42:44 CST In Message # 00001897 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000110 Mike Knight said: > >/Affirmative. Astral-bound members should pause momentarily before >entering the gate. Outlines will be created and as each member steps >forward through the gate, they will actually be stepping through to >the astral plane./ Morgan looks at Grep, at Fuzzy, and at the various members of the CAoL standing around looking at Grep and Fuzzy. "You know," she says to no one in particular, "Our problem used to be rushing into things without a plan. Now it seems like we talk every plan to death." An x-window opens to New York City. Well, _a_ NYC, since most of the common fictions don't have flying humans. "So who's with me?" the Greywolf calls over her shoulder as she walks out of Callahan's and onto a bustling street.... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 19:05:21 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001900 In alt.callahans Post # 00000113 The Lone One said: On Tue, 11 Nov 1997, Morgan wrote: > Morgan looks at Grep, at Fuzzy, and at the various members of the > CAoL standing around looking at Grep and Fuzzy. > > "You know," she says to no one in particular, "Our problem used to > be rushing into things without a plan. Now it seems like we talk > every plan to death." An x-window opens to New York City. Well, _a_ > NYC, since most of the common fictions don't have flying humans. > > "So who's with me?" the Greywolf calls over her shoulder as she > walks out of Callahan's and onto a bustling street.... "We are!" Raver melts back into Mandy with a faint sigh of regret, and pops through the X-window after Morgan. It is a chilly day in New York, and she mutters a soft curse. Rooting around in her pack produces a fleece parka as well as a pair of Fossil wire-frame mirror shades. "Right, then. What's next? Do we continue the facade that we are normal mortal humans so we don't get lynch mobs after us?" Just then, a flyer tacked to a nearby phone pole catches Mandy's attention. Wandering over to read it, she pales. "The PIT Crew?" Whirling to stare up at the skyline, she mutters, "Sweet gods below. Th..the Eyrie Tower." The members of the CAoL on this side of the X-Window stare up at the tallest building in New York - a tower with what looks uncannily like a castle perched atop it, barely visible through the mist. "Morgan, was this your idea...?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 19:10:57 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001901 In alt.callahans Post # 00000114 fuzzy said: > On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 18:21:08 In Message # 00001899 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000112 Morgan said: > > Morgan looks at Grep, at Fuzzy, and at the various members of the > CAoL standing around looking at Grep and Fuzzy. > > "You know," she says to no one in particular, "Our problem used to > be rushing into things without a plan. Now it seems like we talk > every plan to death." An x-window opens to New York City. Well, _a_ > NYC, since most of the common fictions don't have flying humans. > "So who's with me?" the Greywolf calls over her shoulder as she > walks out of Callahan's and onto a bustling street.... "#It appears that planning has been over-ruled by impulse yet again...#" \Nemisis, invert the described plan, send the Splits to the astral as we pass through this x-window, have them behave as if we were the distraction.\ \Confirmed, Task as described, plus Data Gathering, and Plan argumentation emulator loaded. Ready to implement.\ Fuzzy and Nemisis follow Moragn through the x-window =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Tue, 11 Nov 97 19:19:09 -0800 In Message # 00001902 In alt.callahans Post # 00000115 Roland X said: >On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 18:21:08 In Message # 00001899 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000112 Morgan said: > >Morgan looks at Grep, at Fuzzy, and at the various members of the >CAoL standing around looking at Grep and Fuzzy. > >"You know," she says to no one in particular, "Our problem used to be >rushing into things without a plan. Now it seems like we talk every >plan to death." An x-window opens to New York City. Well, _a_ NYC, >since most of the common fictions don't have flying humans. Roland chuckles, remembering all the times that Morgan has taken him to task for running off impulsively. >"So who's with me?" the Greywolf calls over her shoulder as she walks >out of Callahan's and onto a bustling street.... "GRIFE!" Roland exclaims, eyes wide. One flash of light later, he is by her side. *Running off alone is _my_ job, Morgan!* <*I'm _not_ alone,*> Morgan replies matter-of-factly, though a smile has long since formed on her face. <*I _knew_ you'd follow me.*> Roland lets out a patented long-suffering sigh. *Figures.* He then looks around appraisingly. *Hmm ..supers world, I think...* A man in an impressive outfit approaches. "Hey there, mister..." Several people move away, muttering 'Legislator' as they retreat. The Legislator looks down at a hand-held device. "You register on my scanner as possessing powers, but I don't have your pattern on file. I'm going to have to-" *"I'm not registering on your scanner,"* Roland says evenly to the Legislator. "You're not registering on my scanner," the Legislator says. *"We can go about our business,"* Roland adds, staring briefly at the scanner. Its memory is wiped. "You can go about your business." *"Move along."* "Move along," the Legislator says, waving them on and walking away. *Friendly dimension,* Roland sends sarcastically as he cloaks his resonance pattern... (OOC: It's your show from here, Driss! 8^) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 19:57:08 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001903 In alt.callahans Post # 00000116 Driscoll said: > On Mon, 10 Nov 97 15:38:21 -0800 In Message # 00001883 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000096 Roland X said: > > While the CAoL ponders this, a familiar form appears as a > hologram in their midst. > The Controller. > "You fools have pestered me long enough," the signature metallic > voice rasps. "I have your useless friend in another reality. Here > are the transpatial coordinates." The mockery of a face makes an > appropriate mockery of a smile. "That is, if any of you have the > courage you claim." > > "He has to be kidding," Morgan cracks, "He _has_ to know us better > than that by now." > > "If you don't, of course...symbiotes have _so_ many > possibilities." > The hologram looks at Morgan in rage, at Driscoll with naked > hate, at Rhiannon with undisguised curiosity, and at Iron Man in- > -confusion? > The hologram vanishes. Driss looks at where the hologram "stood" and rolls his eyes. "From what I've heard, I killed him, then he's killed me. I guess it's his turn again." He quickly tosses down the rest of his drink. Iron Man clears his throat uncomfortabely. "I know how The Controller thinks. He prefers teh shadows, being behind hte scenes. For him to appear and taunt us like this is very out of character. Unless of course he has a _big_ blowout ready to blast us the moment we step through. From what I know of your I can't see that stopping you all from going, but I should be in the point possition. I might be able to figure out the trap before the rest of you." #Are you going to be OK Justin?# #Yeh Jim. I'll be OK. It was just him mentioning me killing him. I seem to be able to slip into the role of Iron Man and stay there OK, but at heart I still am The Controller. And thus still guilty of his crimes. The death of Knytt, and of Driscoll. tortures of Morgan and Driscoll, imprisonment of them all... I'm glad I decided on an identity with a mask. if htey could see my face right now they'd know something was up.# > Nowhen... > KnightMare smilesas its hologram generator reappears in its > antiverse. /Excellent. Everything is proceeding on schedule. Now to > ensure that the Controller is _truly_ working with me./ It turns and > creates another X-Window. > *So, 'Controller,' as you call yourself,* it hisses, *what do > _you_ want?* Inside a moon on the outer rim of "the slice" (star Wars universe) A large hanger area is filled wiht activity as R2 droids, protocal droids and Controller drones rush about. Starfighters and a few tramp freighters are quickly disassembled and human slave wearing electronic wrist and neckbands tote the salvage out to where it's needed. The Controller stands in the middle of it directing the activity as a director would a symphony. "Shadow. What could *I* possibly want that would make me deal with you again. You failed me in Arcadia. You and your kind abandonded me to the Army of Light and because of it, they took my life and what little humanity I had left. In my eyes, if I still had them, you should be as accountable for my loss as they. I have been weakened, but I will _never_ be defeated. And that's because I know when discontinue a proven failed route. And you are such a route Shadow. Begone! My revenge shall be mine and mine alone. The equipment I recived from Jadis in exchange for traping that 'John' will allow me to track the army of Light Anywhere. They can not hide from me any longer. So you see. your 'help' is unneeded and unasked for." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 20:36:24 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001904 In alt.callahans Post # 00000117 Driscoll said: > On Tue, 11 Nov 97 15:42:44 CST In Message # 00001897 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000110 Mike Knight said: > > /Affirmative. Astral-bound members should pause momentarily before > entering the gate. Outlines will be created and as each member steps > forward through the gate, they will actually be stepping through to > the astral plane./ Iron Man looks at Grep. "I still want to be with the advance Team. That hologram looked confused to see me. obviously he didn't figure me into his plan, and I dare think I can safely say I have more experience dealign with The Controller than Nemesis's fantastic splits or the Stardragon. If it is his trap, I may be able to defuse it before any innocents get hurt by a battle between The Controller and The Stardragon and Nemesis. And if it _isn't_ him, then I may be able to deduce that as well before we get blindsided by someone else." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 20:24:13 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001905 In alt.callahans Post # 00000118 Driscoll said: OK this is attempt 2. ;-) > On Mon, 10 Nov 97 15:38:21 -0800 In Message # 00001883 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000096 Roland X said: > > "If you don't, of course...symbiotes have _so_ many > possibilities." > The hologram looks at Morgan in rage, at Driscoll with naked > hate, at Rhiannon with undisguised curiosity, and at Iron Man in- > -confusion? > The hologram vanishes. Driss tosses down the last on his drink. "From what Roscoe tells me, I killed him, now he's killed me I guess that means it's his turn again. Let's go. After getting incinerated inside a supernova, I'm itchin' for a rematch." Iron Man clears his throat uncomfotably. "I know The Controller's mind as well as I know my own. He prefers to be behind the scenes. In the shadows. To come out with a direct challenge like this is uncharacteristic for him. He COULD of course have such a _big_ boom he expects to incincerate everyone including the Stardragon upone entry. But this could be something even more devious all together. either way I think I should be in the Point possition." #Are you OK Justin? Your brainwaves are very irregular.# #Yeh Yeh I'm OK Jim. Really. it's just that when Driscoll brought up being killed by The Controller... I can slip into Iron Man and stay Iron Man easily enough but in my heart I always know I was The Controller, and I am responsable for his.. my crimes.# #You are The Controller are two different beings now. You did not kill Driscoll. The Controller did.# #It's still me. Just me from another reality. And I'm still personally guilty for torturing him and Morgan, kidnapping his brothers, stealing his power, killing Knytt, imprisoning the rest of the group... I'm just glad I chose an Identity that wore a mask. if they could see my face I'm sure they would have figured things out by now.# #When are you going to tell them?# #I don't know Jim. I just don't know. How do you tell a group of people you're their most hated enemy?# > KnightMare smiles as its hologram generator reappears in its > antiverse. /Excellent. Everything is proceeding on schedule. Now to > ensure that the Controller is _truly_ working with me./ It turns and > creates another X-Window. > *So, 'Controller,' as you call yourself,* it hisses, *what do > _you_ want?* From inside a moon in the outer rim: Protocal droids, R2units and Controller Drones scamble around the large hanger disassembling starfighters and tramp freighters while human slaves in electroic necka dn arm slave bands haul the salvage down cooridorsto where it is needed most. Amdist all teh confusion stands The Controller directing it as a conductor would direct a symphony. "Shadow! Why would I want anything from _you?_ You failed me once already adn that is one too many times for my tastes. You and yoru kind abandonded me in Arcadia. Left me to the mercies of the Army of Light and cost em my life and humanity. _You_ are as much to blame for how I am now as they are. begone from my sight!! I need nothing from you. The scanning equipment Jadis gave me for delivering John to him will give me the ability to track the Army of Light wherever they may be. No longer can they hide from me. My vengence shall be at hand, and _you_ shall not be a part of it. Go back to the black hole you crawled out of." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 22:55:56 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001906 In alt.callahans Post # 00000119 Dane0R0A said: In a message dated 97-11-11 09:53:47 EST, Mike Knight wrote: << /The standard gateway would be unfeasible for such a purpose. Two options are reccomended. One is to choose a third location as a branch point to travel to before going to the Controller's coordinates. Two is to perform a fourth dimentional gateway, where the gates would be traced around the three dimentions the CAoL inhabit. The gates could then be moved through that fourth dimention, transporting the CAoL to the specified locations without forcing a detour to a third location./ /This latter method would have the drawback of leaving the Stardragon behind. A scan of the energies comprising the entity designated the stardragon would be required. I have been informed that such scans are not to be performed on said entity. However, I have also been informed said entity has a human form that might be able to be outlined, if said energies could be contained within the visible corporeal shell. Any energies left outside the shell would remain here when transport took place. An equivalent, projections indicate, to amputation of a limb./ >> The Stardragon replies /Do not be concerned for me. I can pass into 4 space at will, and follow you to your destination. If you wish I can take the splits with me and go directly to the given coordinates. Uh, what kind of ambient temperatures can the splits survive? If I or they are attacked on entrance to 3 space my automatic defenses may make the surroundings VERY hot./ As it speaks it takes on its favored childlike form. /I don't mind being scanned by friends, as long as I know it's about to happen. I wouldn't surprise me by doing it without telling me first though. It's not HEALTHY to try that. My automatic defenses take scans as attacks and respond, VIOLENTLY, unless I know ahead of time to suppress them./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 20:21:12 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001907 In alt.callahans Post # 00000120 fuzzy said: > On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 22:55:56 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001906 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000119 Dane0R0A said: > > The Stardragon replies /Do not be concerned for me. I can pass into > 4 space at will, and follow you to your destination. If you wish I > can take the splits with me and go directly to the given > coordinates. Uh, what kind of ambient temperatures can the splits > survive? If I or they are attacked on entrance to 3 space my > automatic defenses may make the surroundings VERY hot./ As it speaks > it takes on its favored childlike form. /I don't mind being scanned > by friends, as long as I know it's about to happen. I wouldn't > surprise me by doing it without telling me first though. It's not > HEALTHY to try that. My automatic defenses take scans as attacks and > respond, VIOLENTLY, unless I know ahead of time to suppress them./ \At temperatures over 3000c they will immediatly be unmasked as what they are, when the outer layers nanites begin to fuse. Passive response to that temperature would eventually allow them to be destroyed, Parts may survive even Atomic weapons. Active response to that temperature is unpredictable as that depends on the intellegence and composite abilities of the Split as a whole.\ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 22:31:27 -0600 In Message # 00001908 In alt.callahans Post # 00000121 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 22:55:56 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001906 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000119 Dane0R0A said: >The Stardragon replies /Do not be concerned for me. I can pass into 4 >space at will, and follow you to your destination. If you wish I can >take the splits with me and go directly to the given coordinates. Uh, >what kind of ambient temperatures can the splits survive? If I or >they are attacked on entrance to 3 space my automatic defenses may >make the surroundings VERY hot./ As it speaks it takes on its favored >childlike form. /I don't mind being scanned by friends, as long as I >know it's about to happen. I wouldn't surprise me by doing it without >telling me first though. It's not HEALTHY to try that. My automatic >defenses take scans as attacks and respond, VIOLENTLY, unless I know >ahead of time to suppress them./ Grep nods. /Understood. It appears however,/ Grep says, watching Morgan and the others pass through the X-window, /the decision has already been made./ Grep walks through the X-Window into New York City. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 21:40:31 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001909 In alt.callahans Post # 00000122 The Lone One said: OOC: Doh! *pounds head* This is what I get for posting when my mind's somewhere else. Oh well. Just ignore the last part of my post. :) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 09:54:33 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001912 In alt.callahans Post # 00000125 fuzzy said: > On Tue, 11 Nov 1997 22:31:27 -0600 In Message # 00001908 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000121 Michael Jon Knight said: > Grep nods. /Understood. It appears however,/ Grep says, watching > Morgan and the others pass through the X-window, /the decision has > already been made./ Grep walks through the X-Window into New York > City. \Grep, How does this location compare with the coordinates you had calculated? If there is a differential, would you give me the relative positioning please.\ \Nemisis, I think we need a tech analysis, of one of those detectors the legislator was using, Specific attention to can we mask against it, and Can we detect it before entering its area of detection.\ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 10:40:25 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001913 In alt.callahans Post # 00000126 "P. Campbell" said: On Tue, 11 Nov 1997, Morgan wrote: > Morgan looks at Grep, at Fuzzy, and at the various members of the > CAoL standing around looking at Grep and Fuzzy. > > "You know," she says to no one in particular, "Our problem used to > be rushing into things without a plan. Now it seems like we talk > every plan to death." An x-window opens to New York City. Well, _a_ > NYC, since most of the common fictions don't have flying humans. > > "So who's with me?" the Greywolf calls over her shoulder as she > walks out of Callahan's and onto a bustling street.... <* Just a minute, *> Xzerrion sends. <* Some of us are damn conspicuous at the moment. *> Xzerrion calls minor illusions so that, for all practical purposes, he and Tezrantha appear to be normal, if slightly short and slender, humans. He looks at the horse. "Now what am I supposed to do with you?" The horse snorts, and nods impatiently towards the x-window. "Right, not a great deal of time," Xzerrion responds. After a subtle application of magic, the horse shimmers oddly. "Anything else, my lady," he asks Tezrantha. Tezrantha shakes her head, and turns to Morgan. "We're with you." She then sends over the broader link, grimacing slightly with the effort, <* I can communicate with you this way without it, but it would be a lot easier if someone brought me officially into your link somehow. *> - Xzerrion, Tezrantha, and the horse =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 13:45:24 -0600 In Message # 00001915 In alt.callahans Post # 00000128 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 10:40:25 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001913 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000126 "P. Campbell" said: > >Tezrantha shakes her head, and turns to Morgan. "We're with you." >She then sends over the broader link, grimacing slightly with the >effort, <* I can communicate with you this way without it, but it >would be a lot easier if someone brought me officially into your link >somehow. *> Just before stepping through the X-window, Grep turns and a small tendril of liquid gold wraps itself around a ringless finger on Tezrantha's hand. /Link has been established. This is a noninvasive link. The ring will come off. It is recomended that you not remove it as it might become lost. However, it is tight enough others will be unable to remove it./ he sends through the small, plain, gold ring. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 13:45:15 -0600 In Message # 00001916 In alt.callahans Post # 00000129 Michael Jon Knight said: \>On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 09:54:33 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001912 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000125 fuzzy said: > >\Grep, How does this location compare with the coordinates you had > calculated? If there is a differential, would you give me the > relative positioning please.\ /My coordinate conversion programs are in their most elementary stages, having only been installed for beta testing two weeks prior. All coordinates are calculated using the Callahan's Place on the other side of the X-window as a starting point. I am not privy to the coordinates of this dimention, as X-window conversion programs are still in design phase./ Grep looks around. /We appear to be in New York. However, super-powered humans are not in my database beyond present company./ Grep pauses momentarily. /I believe the proper phrase is, "Morgan, where the hell are we?"/ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 12:22:39 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001917 In alt.callahans Post # 00000130 Nemisis said: > On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 09:54:33 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001912 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000125 fuzzy said: > \Nemisis, I think we need a tech analysis, of one of those detectors > the legislator was using, Specific attention to can we mask against > it, and Can we detect it before entering its area of detection.\ \Confirmed Lord Fuzzy, I have already sent a Info-Gnat to gather the requested data. Detection Method, Pattern, and Sensitivity are high on my list of required data.\ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 13:12:39 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001918 In alt.callahans Post # 00000131 Nemisis said: > On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 13:45:15 -0600 In Message # 00001916 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000129 Michael Jon Knight said: > > /My coordinate conversion programs are in their most elementary > stages, having only been installed for beta testing two weeks prior. > All coordinates are calculated using the Callahan's Place on the > other side of the X-window as a starting point. I am not privy to > the coordinates of this dimention, as X-window conversion programs > are still in design phase./ \Here is a coordinate idenification program, {uuencoded} I admit it is of limited ability, but It does return the current coordinates, Data Format conversion to the Format your precursor Nav set used is included. Included data files are my current coordinate database and coordinate format definition.\ > Grep pauses momentarily. > > /I believe the proper phrase is, "Morgan, where the hell are we?"/ "I will second that question." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 97 15:21:34 -0800 In Message # 00001919 In alt.callahans Post # 00000132 Roland X said: >On Wed, 5 Nov 1997 12:45:33 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001865 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000078 Shadow said: > >Jadis's base, Wamphyri subwing: > >The Wamphyri, eyes burning like coals, reaches for his gauntlet at >this intrusion into his presence. > >"Very well, What do you want? Be quick, for my curiousity for two >cowards afraid to appear before me in the flesh is limited." KnightMare feels a brief flicker of annoyance, but suppresses the sudden urge to incinerate the insolent creature. Thorne swallows, sensing his master's short burst of anger, and steps aside. *I see no need to bother with physical transit when I can perform all necessary communications simultaneously. As for cowardice, you would be a minor annoyance at worst as an adversary. Still, you might prove useful. When you decide whether or not advancement in this existence means anything to you, use this.* A small, clamshell-shaped device falls at the Wamphyri's feet. Both vanish, Thorne surprised by the sudden exit. "KnightMare, why-" *Never destroy a gate you wish to pass through again, my pupil.* >Jadis's base, north tower: > >The blood mage turns at the feel of power in the air... > >"Power, and," he pauses, as if he doesn't even dare think this >thought, "freedom." Thorne nods. "Watch, then, and wait...and report to us when we return." The mage suddenly feels a new conduit open to him, one to the awesome might of faerie magic. But for the moment, the link is slight- They vanish. >Jadis base, viewing room: > >All the monitors turn off automatically as Jadis allows the sending >into his base, > >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. "That," Thorne says pointedly, "depends on the difference between your reach and your grasp, does it not?" *Soon, my grasp will be effectively limitless, Deathwalker,* KnightMare says, clearly meaning the last word as an honorific. *I have already directed your enemies away from your prize, though this quite frankly serves my purpose. *My scans indicate that you desire the child. Why, I care not. In exchange for your aid, I will have my agents aid you in retrieving her.* =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 97 15:39:30 -0800 In Message # 00001920 In alt.callahans Post # 00000133 Roland X said: >On Tue, 4 Nov 1997 17:24:56 -0600 In Message # 00001864 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000077 Michael Jon Knight said: > >On the mining planet, Androsia 4... > >----------------------------------------------------------- >In the palace bedchamber: > >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!" Thorne chuckled. "He's cute. May I kill him, master?" *No,* KnightMare replies in annoyance, and the pair vanishes. >----------------------------------------------------------- >In a nearby hallway: > >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." "Simple enough," Thorne replies. "I am an arch-mage of the Nephandi, Adrian Thorne by name. The information is meaningless to you, however, unless you know far more of reality than you seem. As for why it is so important-" Thorne smiles. "Well, I'm sure that someone like you is quite familiar with making bargains, yes? I think you'll find our terms to your liking, is you wish to listen..." >------------------------------------------------------------ >In the palace water garden: > >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. "Power," Thorne replies, smiling distantly. "Limitless power..." *Thorne, control yourself.* KnightMare shrugs. *Humans. Now then. I wish to delay some interfering fools. For this minor task, I am willing to return the...investment...handsomely. *I ask again, what do you want?* >------------------------------------------------------------ >In her suite: > >Anna looked back to her workbench. > >"Your absence, Shadow." KnightMare's eyes flash in anger. *Suit yourself, fool.* The two darklings fade out... >------------------------------------------------------------ >In the palace's catacombs: > >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?" "The usual things," Thorne replies. "Power over our realms, revenge on our enemies. All we desire from _you,_ however, is a simple delaying tactic. And my...employer...is willing to pay handsomely." *Over what do _you_ desire power, ambassador?* KnightMare adds... >------------------------------------------------------------ >In another palace hallway: > >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." KnightMare incinerates the fortune. (Thorne howls and sucks on his fingers.) *I hate time travel,* the Z'Ha'Dumian snarls as it returns its concentration to its antiverse. Its eyes flicker to its X-Window following Knytt and Flarn. *Change worlds, times, names, loves, in the end it will not matter.* Thorne backs away from the raw power of KnightMare's unthinking telepathy. *Sooner or later I _will_ unravel your secret, KnightShift. And it will win me more realities than any of your minds can fathom...* =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 18:47:54 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001922 In alt.callahans Post # 00000135 Driscoll said: > On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 13:12:39 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001918 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000131 Nemisis said: > >> /I believe the proper phrase is, "Morgan, where the hell are we?"/ > > "I will second that question." Driss looks at a newspaper in a rack on the sidewalk. "You know, I think I know exactly where we are. and if so I have some freinds who might be able to make searching for John a LOT easier." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 20:44:49 -0600 In Message # 00001923 In alt.callahans Post # 00000136 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 13:12:39 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001918 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000131 Nemisis said: > >\Here is a coordinate idenification program, {uuencoded} > I admit it is of limited ability, but It does return the current >coordinates, Data Format conversion to the Format your precursor Nav >set used is included. Included data files are my current coordinate >database and coordinate format definition.\ /Interesting. Initiating conversion program in spare cycles./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 20:50:45 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001924 In alt.callahans Post # 00000137 Dane0R0A said: In a message dated 97-11-12 03:53:37 EST, Michael Jon Knight wrote: << Grep nods. /Understood. It appears however,/ Grep says, watching Morgan and the others pass through the X-window, /the decision has already been made./ Grep walks through the X-Window into New York City. >> /So it does./ The Stardragon sighs and follows. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 20:59:49 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001925 In alt.callahans Post # 00000138 Dane0R0A said: In a message dated 97-11-12 14:42:51 EST, Michael Jon Knight wrote: << \Grep, How does this location compare with the coordinates you had calculated? If there is a differential, would you give me the relative positioning please.\ >> /You are aware that the hologram didn't originate at the coordinates that the Controller gave us aren't you?/ The Stardragon offers. /The Hologram and the equipment used to generate it came from a significantly differant Macro Cosmic location. Whoever or whatever sent it used energy to deliver it and to retrieve it. That made it possible for me to trace it's origin and destination points./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 19:23:28 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001926 In alt.callahans Post # 00000139 Driscoll said: > On Tue, 11 Nov 97 19:19:09 -0800 In Message # 00001902 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000115 Roland X said: > > Roland lets out a patented long-suffering sigh. *Figures.* He > then looks around appraisingly. *Hmm..supers world, I think...* > A man in an impressive outfit approaches. "Hey there, mister..." > Several people move away, muttering 'Legislator' as they retreat. > The Legislator looks down at a hand-held device. "You register on > my scanner as possessing powers, but I don't have your pattern on > file. I'm going to have to-" > *"I'm not registering on your scanner,"* Roland says evenly to > the Legislator. > "You're not registering on my scanner," the Legislator says. > *"We can go about our business,"* Roland adds, staring briefly at > the scanner. Its memory is wiped. > "You can go about your business." > *"Move along."* > "Move along," the Legislator says, waving them on and walking > away. > *Friendly dimension,* Roland sends sarcastically as he cloaks his > resonance pattern... The Legislator stops at Driss. "Identity found. Harlequin. You've changed your costume since last time you were seen. Change noted. You currently have no warrents for your arrest. Keep it that way." "And a Merry Christmas to you too!" quips Driss as he turns his back on the government drone and heads towards a nearby ATM. Withdrawing a large sum of cash he returns. "OK I know where we are alright and lets just say blending in is a REAL good idea. At least until I can get us to Los Angeles. I have some freinds there called the Legion of Heroes. They're pretty much the ONLY recognised superHEROES, at least in the public eye. Paranoia and xenophobia are stong here towards the power endowed. Anyone NOT wearing 20th century clothing that doesn't have a handy cloak of shadows to change in... it's tiem to go shopping." So saying Driss steps back into his cloak and vanishes. it settles to the ground only to jump up again as he reappears wearing a pair of blue jeans, a red t-shirt and a leather bomber jacket. Folding his cloak he tucks it in the jacket. "So what are we wating for? while you shop I'll book a plane." Edmund Moriarty is in the game room with Mr William Wassadoodle, toy mogul and legal nut. Willie sips his cup of tea to calm his nerves as Moriarty feels a piece of paper under his hand. THEY HAVE ARRIVED -QUANTAM Crumpling it up he smiles warmly at Willie. I think I may have a breaktrough in your therapy to console the enotions that tear you apart mentally and rid you of Lunitic forever." "Oh that would be a godsend Edmund. You can't realize the terror I feel every day wondering if he's going to break loose. I barely sleep anymore..." "I warn you though to deal wiht him I will have to bring him out to talk to him, but rest assured that I will not let him do anything. You/he will be wearing these special manacles at all times." Moriarty pulls out a belt with two heavily armored cubes attached to it with thick cables. Willie looks at it aprehensively. "I-I trust you Dr. Moriarty. if it is the only way I'll do it." Moriarty pushes a button and two exoskeletal bodyguards show up and place the manacles on Willie. Then they step back to the doorway and take sentry possitions next to it. Moriarty pulls out a shimmering disk on a logn silvery cord and begins ot spin it. Willie watches fascinated until he slips into a hypnotic trace. "Lunitic. Lunitic. I'm calling you out to play." Willie's features change to become more childlike, his clothes change and become a pink suit with yellow polkadots and a green plaid tie. The room itself seems to bend and shape itself, turning into a child's bedroom filled with toys. "PLAYTIME!!!!!!!" Shouts Lunitic as he springs up form teh chair, which has become a beanbag chair, and does a few handsprings across the room. His amancles are nowhere to eb seen. "Yes Lunitic. PLaytime. But there are those out there who want you to go to bed. Bad people. They don't want you to play." Calmly remarks Moriarty as he rises from his rockinghorse. He pulls a small device from his pocket adn a hologram of the CAoL's appearence in New York appears. "These are the people Lunitic. You must stop them. Must kill them. Or they will make you go away again. They will be in California soon. You must be ready for them." Lunitic looks at the holograma nd smiels broadly. "Oh they won't like _my_ surprise party, but as long as I'm the one having fun, who cares??? HEHEHEHAHHAHAHEHHEHEHEHAHAHAHEHEHHEHE" Lunitic grabs a nearby pogostick and goes bounding off through a window and into the night taking a mile or so with each leap. The room quickly returns to normal. Two flabbergasted bodyguards try to sort out what happened, while Moriarty moves to a instrument console on the wall, kicking the manacles he sees laying on the floor as he goes. "Please alert the police that Lunitic has effected his escape. In the process two guards were killed and I was wounded." Touching another button the two exoskeletons short circut, sending 200,000 volts through their wearers. Removign a small blaster pistol from a desk drawer, Moriarty trains the gun on himself and pulls the trigger... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 20:19:43 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001928 In alt.callahans Post # 00000141 fuzzy said: > On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 20:59:49 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001925 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000138 Dane0R0A said: > > /You are aware that the hologram didn't originate at the coordinates > that the Controller gave us aren't you?/ The Stardragon offers. /The > Hologram and the equipment used to generate it came from a > significantly differant Macro Cosmic location. Whoever or whatever > sent it used energy to deliver it and to retrieve it. That made it > possible for me to trace it's origin and destination points./ \No I had not been aware of that, but I had assumed it. Even The Controller is not insane enough to give away his real location quite that easily. If the Equipment itself was also transported to give a misleading track...\ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 00:04:02 -0600 In Message # 00001929 In alt.callahans Post # 00000142 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Wed, 12 Nov 1997 19:23:28 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001926 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000139 Driscoll said: > So saying Driss steps back into his cloak and vanishes. it settles >to the ground only to jump up again as he reappears wearing a pair of >blue jeans, a red t-shirt and a leather bomber jacket. Folding his >cloak he tucks it in the jacket. "So what are we wating for? while >you shop I'll book a plane." Grep steps toward Driss. As it does so, its body changes. By the completion of its first step, Grep's body has reformed. /Melissa form complete./ "Melissa" is a 5'5" (5'8" in the three-inch gold heels "she" is wearing) light-skinned lithe woman approximately in her mid-twenties. Platinum-blonde chin-length bangs frame her angular, chiseled features and continue, to neet in the back of her head. A faint widow's peak bisects her face. A hint of glittery silver eyeshadow above long dark eyelashes, dark, clear crystal blue eyes and dark red lipstick that glitters slightly complete the new face.. She wears a black, shiny plastic-like jacket and matching slacks. Under the jacket is a form-fitting gold corset-ish affair, which, with the shoes, are the only remnants of its natural form. The jacket sleeves are rolled up halfway, revealing slender forearms and hands. Her fingernails are gleaming silver. /Total reconfiguration time, one-half second./ As "Melissa" Grep continues forward, observers not in the know get the distinct appearance that she is cold and all-business. "I wish to accompany you on your objective," she says in a surprisingly out-of-place Marilyn Monroe voice. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 01:05:03 -0600 In Message # 00001930 In alt.callahans Post # 00000143 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Wed, 12 Nov 97 15:39:30 -0800 In Message # 00001920 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000133 Roland X said: > >>On Tue, 4 Nov 1997 17:24:56 -0600 In Message # 00001864 >> In alt.callahans Post # 00000077 >> Michael Jon Knight said: >> > "Simple enough," Thorne replies. "I am an arch-mage of the >Nephandi, Adrian Thorne by name. The information is meaningless to >you, however, unless you know far more of reality than you seem. As >for why it is so important-" Thorne smiles. "Well, I'm sure that >someone like you is quite familiar with making bargains, yes? I think >you'll find our terms to your liking, is you wish to listen..." "I do not. I do not deal with devils the likes of you." Masterson hurries quickly away, a bit too quickly for someone merely repulsed. Several moments later, he turns a corner and leans against it, shivering to himself. "I _hate_ magic." But, his body language says hate is not the correct term... >>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. > > "Power," Thorne replies, smiling distantly. "Limitless power..." "Goooood luck. You'll need a lahhht of it." > *Thorne, control yourself.* KnightMare shrugs. >*Humans. Now then. I wish to delay some inter- >fering fools. For this minor task, I am willing >to return the...investment...handsomely. > *I ask again, what do you want?* "Whaaaat is yoooour pet's reward, magical one? And why dooo I expect I will be as unlikely toooo get mine as he is his?" > KnightMare's eyes flash in anger. > *Suit yourself, fool.* > The two darklings fade out... Anna directs an obsene gesture at the general area the pair inhabited a moment before. >>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?" > > "The usual things," Thorne replies. "Power over our realms, >revenge on our enemies. All we desire from _you,_ however, is a >simple delaying tactic. And my...employer...is willing to pay >handsomely." > *Over what do _you_ desire power, ambassador?* KnightMare adds... "I desire nothing. It is not the way of the Skix'tasis. All life is inferior to us. We have no desire to rule inferiors. It is beneath us." > *I hate time travel,* the Z'Ha'Dumian snarls as it returns its >concentration to its antiverse. Its eyes flicker to its X-Window >following Knytt and Flarn. *Change worlds, times, names, loves, in >the end it will not matter.* Thorne backs away from the raw power of >KnightMare's unthinking telepathy. *Sooner or later I _will_ unravel >your secret, KnightShift. And it will win me more realities than any >of your minds can fathom...* Knightmare will note the window shows very little of interest. Nothing more than an average charming elderly couple on vacation. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 21:15:29 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001931 In alt.callahans Post # 00000144 Dane0R0A said: In a message dated 97-11-13 00:39:11 EST, you write: << Driscoll said: So saying Driss steps back into his cloak and vanishes. it settles to the ground only to jump up again as he reappears wearing a pair of blue jeans, a red t-shirt and a leather bomber jacket. Folding his cloak he tucks it in the jacket. "So what are we wating for? while you shop I'll book a plane." >> The Stardragon replies /Who needs a plane? I am familliar with Earth./ With that it extends a hand, the entire group of CAoLers are surrounded in a translucent field of some kind. There is a small short sensation of being jerked sideways and the field vanishes, revealing the rubble of the (luckily abandoned) warehouse, that happened to be at the location The Stardragon chose as a destination. Chagrined it mutters /OOPS. Oh well this will compensate the owner/. It then picks up a steel girder, rams it into the floor so that it remains upright and transforms it to gold. It then etches the words 'Sorry, for the inconvienance' in the surface of the golden girder, with a finger. Beyond the rubble the outskirts of a major city can be seen. The Stardragon says /welcome to LA./ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 18:40:39 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001932 In alt.callahans Post # 00000145 "P. Campbell" said: On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 Dane0R0A wrote: > Beyond the rubble the outskirts of a major city can be seen. The > Stardragon says /welcome to LA./ Tezrantha gasps. Xzerrion just sighs and shakes his head. "Is he always like this," Tezrantha asks. Xzerrion responds, "Yes, dear, always. Don't worry, he means well, and does manage to clean up any inadvertant mistakes." "Why am I not reassured?" Tezrantha mutters under her breath. The horse snorts his agreement. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 22:12:07 In Message # 00001933 In alt.callahans Post # 00000146 Morgan said: >On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 21:15:29 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001931 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000144 Dane0R0A said: > > >Beyond the rubble the outskirts of a major city can be seen. The >Stardragon says /welcome to LA./ Morgan looks at Roland with a feigned pout. "Does this mean I don't get to shop?" Roland laughs. "You haven't been to Los Angeles yet, have you?" His smile widens, imagining the...possibilities...of shopping in an LA where supers exist. Morgan switches to a voice familiar to those who were in on the beginning of the CAoL's foray into Quaren. "Like, I'm _so_ sure. Toootally." A giggle is putting up a creditable fight, but Morgan valiantly holds it at bay. Roland cringes. "Oh no...it's the return of Buffy Blondewolf..." The giggle triumphs. =========================== On Thu, 13 Nov 97 23:59:55 CST In Message # 00001935 In alt.callahans Post # 00000148 Mike Knight said: >On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 21:15:29 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001931 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000144 Dane0R0A said: > >Beyond the rubble the outskirts of a major city can be seen. The >Stardragon says /welcome to LA./ "Melissa" Grep leans in to Driss, whose arm she had taken after observing several male/female couples (and one male/male couple) walking arm in arm and assumed it normal human behavior worth emulation,and asks him, "Stardragon's actions, are they what is meant by 'blending in'?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Fri, 14 Nov 97 12:12:24 CST In Message # 00001936 In alt.callahans Post # 00000149 Mike Knight said: >On Thu, 13 Nov 1997 22:12:07 In Message # 00001933 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000146 Morgan said: > Roland laughs. "You haven't been to Los Angeles yet, have you?" >His smile widens, imagining the...possibilities...of shopping in an >LA where supers exist. "Shopping: The purchasing of goods and/or services from retailers. Is ... shopping ... considered a pleasurable experience among humans?" "Melissa" asks. >Morgan switches to a voice familiar to those who were in on the >beginning of the CAoL's foray into Quaren. "Like, I'm _so_ sure. >Toootally." A giggle is putting up a creditable fight, but Morgan >valiantly holds it at bay. > > Roland cringes. "Oh no...it's the return of Buffy Blondewolf..." > >The giggle triumphs. "Toootally." Melissa mimics. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 12:58:43 In Message # 00001937 In alt.callahans Post # 00000150 Morgan said: >On Fri, 14 Nov 97 12:12:24 CST In Message # 00001936 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000149 Mike Knight said: > >"Shopping: The purchasing of goods and/or services from retailers. Is >... shopping ... considered a pleasurable experience among humans?" >"Melissa" asks. Morgan smiles. "Yes, and it's one of the oldest pastimes as well." At the several quizzical looks she receives, she replies, "Foraging? Hunter-gathering? You get the idea." >> Roland cringes. "Oh no...it's the return of Buffy Blondewolf..." >> >>The giggle triumphs. > >"Toootally." Melissa mimics. Morgan's giggle fades slightly, and she and Roland stare at each other for a moment, then the same film reference occurs to both of them simultaniously.... "Run awaaay! Run awaaaaaaay!" Sensing another possible misunderstanding, they immediately send over the link that the reference is _not_ to be taken literally. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 13:47:54 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001938 In alt.callahans Post # 00000151 The Lone One said: On Fri, 14 Nov 1997, Morgan wrote: >>"Shopping: The purchasing of goods and/or services from retailers. >>Is ... shopping ... considered a pleasurable experience among >>humans?" "Melissa" asks. > > Morgan smiles. "Yes, and it's one of the oldest pastimes as well." > At the several quizzical looks she receives, she replies, "Foraging? > Hunter-gathering? You get the idea." "Yes, we get the idea," Mandy says, a feral grin creeping over her face. "Dibs on the bookstore!" > Morgan's giggle fades slightly, and she and Roland stare at each > other for a moment, then the same film reference occurs to both of > them simultaniously.... > > "Run awaaay! Run awaaaaaaay!" > > Sensing another possible misunderstanding, they immediately send > over the link that the reference is _not_ to be taken literally. Mandy sighs, and rolls her eyes heavenward. "What are we going to do with you?" She grins, taking the sting out of her words, and settles the mirrored sunglasses more firmly on her nose. "Anyone up for raiding the bookstores? We have a platinum credit card." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 19:28:00 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001940 In alt.callahans Post # 00000153 Driscoll said: On Fri, 14 Nov 1997, The Lone One wrote: > Mandy sighs, and rolls her eyes heavenward. "What are we going to > do with you?" She grins, taking the sting out of her words, and > settles the mirrored sunglasses more firmly on her nose. "Anyone up > for raiding the bookstores? We have a platinum credit card." "First let's get ourselves based someplace safe until we figure out the who what where when adn how much's." smirks Driss. Reaching into his jacket, he pulls out a set of keys with what looks liek a car alarm remote on it. Pushing the button he then pulls out his cloak and changes his clothes back. "The Legion will know me better as Harlequin so I may as well be dressed for the role." A few minutes later a driverless military jeep comes screeching to a halt in front of the warehouse. "It's not flashy, but it was the only vehicle I _knew_ would be in the bay. After Commando died nearly no one ever drives this baby. Oh and mind the heavy laser cannon in the rear. I dunno if htey ever got around to disarming it." Slipping behidn the wheel of the jeep, the inside is an anachronism with complex computer controls set into the dash. Complete with a police style computer between the seats. On the screen of which is written WELCOME BACK HARLEQUIN -SB After everyone climbs in Driss takes off. Taking a few moments to get his bearings, Driss begins racing towards Hollywood. Getting into the hills the famous sign is visible when Driss veers off the road towards a stone wall... And into a good-sized vehicle bay. Slipping the jeep into its empty space, Driss hops out. A camera seems to lock on him, and a doorway slides open. Driss turns to look at it when "Great balls of Fire" starts playing from seemingly everywhere. then it begins localizing itself and taking on the visible form of a man. Finally it quiets down until it can barely be heard int eh background. "'Arls!! Where the 'ell you been mate? Been nearly two years now ain't it?" "Yeh it has been. I brought a few friends with me. Everyone, this is Sonic Boom leader of the Legion of Heroes. SB, this is the Army of Light." Sonic booms features blank out and his face remolds itself to appear facing the CAoL. "G'day! Actually thought I ain't been leader for a bit now. Bobby is now. but you can catch up on that above." "Route 66" starts becoming noticable and Sonic Boom fades away until he is completesly gone form sight. Soon the music is gone too. "Don't mind him. His body is composed completely of soundwaves." says Driss, "Hold it what am I doing explaining anyone to _this_ groups?" Smirking he looks back. "Coming?" Through the doorway and up an elevator, it opens to show a large common room. A big screen TV is on one wall, a four armed vietnamese man is playing pool with a nude man engulfed in flames wiht large gold angel wings. A voluptuous woman reclines under a sun lamp. And a teenage boy sits on a couhc reading a comic book. He sees everyone enter, looks at the book, looks at everyone again looks at the book... "I KNOW THEM!!!" He yells, jumps up turning into a large beachball and bounces over to the group. becoming humanoid again, he stretches out a hand to everyone, and still has two left to hold his comic. "Oh wow this is like SUCH an honor like ohmygosohmygodohmygod I have all your issues. I'm just finishing the new Annual issue with teh wedding in it and oh my god can I have your autographs?" He thrusts out his CAoL Comic Book in Roland's face. The woman gets up and switiches the sun lamp off. "Well we have celeberties here? I guess i should get dressed." she says in a vocie that tickles like a bell. She waves her hand over herself and is suddenly wearing a skin tight evening gown with a very plunging neckline and slit up the right side almost to her armpit. TBC =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 21:18:34 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001941 In alt.callahans Post # 00000154 Shadow said: > On Wed, 12 Nov 97 15:21:34 -0800 In Message # 00001919 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000132 Roland X said: > > Both vanish, Thorne surprised by the sudden exit. > "KnightMare, why-" > *Never destroy a gate you wish to pass through again, my pupil.* The Wamphyri picks up the device, looks it over, then tosses it into a corner, "Bah." > Thorne nods. "Watch, then, and wait...and report to us when we > return." The mage suddenly feels a new conduit open to him, one to > the awesome might of faerie magic. But for the moment, the link is > slight- > They vanish. The mage stares at the empty space where Knightmare just vanished from, a note of desperation in his voice, "Now how do I keep this from Lord Jadis." >>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. > > "That," Thorne says pointedly, "depends on the difference between > your reach and your grasp, does it not?" "My reach is quite long, and my grasp is sufficient." > *Soon, my grasp will be effectively limitless, Deathwalker,* > KnightMare says, clearly meaning the last word as an honorific. *I > have already directed your enemies away from your prize, though this > quite frankly serves my purpose. > *My scans indicate that you desire the child. Why, I care not. In > exchange for your aid, I will have my agents aid you in retrieving > her.* "Already I have captured my counterpart, who was the more dangerous of the two. The girl would merely be icing on the cake. She has served her purpose. _I_ have no need of the girl. Maybe in a few millenia she will be of interest to me. If you wish to aid me, then find me a way to neutralize the Stardragon. Of them all, he is the only one who worries me, as indeed he should worry you. Already I weave my plans around and including him, but he is a nuisance to have to account for. That is my desire, or is such a thing beyond you? =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 21:25:49 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00001942 In alt.callahans Post # 00000155 Shadow said: > On Thu, 13 Nov 97 23:59:55 CST In Message # 00001935 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000148 Mike Knight said: > > "Melissa" Grep leans in to Driss, whose arm she had taken after > observing several male/female couples (and one male/male couple) > walking arm in arm and assumed it normal human behavior worth > emulation,and asks him, "Stardragon's actions, are they what is > meant by 'blending in'?" Rhiannon, covered by an illusion of 20th century garb, laughs when she overhears that remark, "My uncle war.. told me about the Stardragon. He doesn't blend in very well." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 20:39:09 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001943 In alt.callahans Post # 00000156 Driscoll said: On Thu, 13 Nov 1997, Mike Knight wrote: > "Melissa" Grep leans in to Driss, whose arm she had taken after > observing several male/female couples (and one male/male couple) > walking arm in arm and assumed it normal human behavior worth > emulation,and asks him, "Stardragon's actions, are they what is > meant by 'blending in'?" Driss gives her arm a slight squeeze where it's locked around him, always glad to haev a beautiful lady on his arm and flashes her a smiles, "No, not quite. And I really have to wonder why I keep asking _this_ group to try to blend in anywhere. It hasn't worked once yet." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 20:15:58 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001944 In alt.callahans Post # 00000157 fuzzy said: > On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 19:28:00 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001940 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000153 Driscoll said: > "Don't mind him. His body is composed completely of soundwaves." > says Driss, "Hold it what am I doing explaining anyone to _this_ > groups?" Smirking he looks back. "Coming?" "Explaining is fine, not much point in trying to excuse anyone though..." > "I KNOW THEM!!!" He yells, jumps up turning into a large beachball > and bounces over to the group. becoming humanoid again, he stretches > out a hand to everyone, and still has two left to hold his comic. > "Oh wow this is like SUCH an honor like ohmygosohmygodohmygod I have > all your issues. I'm just finishing the new Annual issue with the > wedding in it and oh my god can I have your autographs?" He thrusts > out his CAoL Comic Book in Roland's face. "Now this we should have been warned about... ;)" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 20:19:20 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001945 In alt.callahans Post # 00000158 fuzzy said: > On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 20:39:09 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001943 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000156 Driscoll said: > > Driss gives her arm a slight squeeze where it's locked around him, > always glad to haev a beautiful lady on his arm and flashes her a > smiles, "No, not quite. And I really have to wonder why I keep > asking _this_ group to try to blend in anywhere. It hasn't worked > once yet." "We do keep hopeing... In vain it sometimes seems. ;) Still we would not be half as effective if we always behaved in a sensible (ie Predictable) manner. =========================== Subject: OOC: Nemisis form... On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 20:23:05 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001946 In alt.callahans Post # 00000159 fuzzy said: It has not been said yet, But Nemisis, or at least as much of her is in normal space with us, Has been in "Dorn" shape, Without the scar, since arrival. The Shape change happened as She was passing through Morgan's X-Window. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: We're off to see.... On Sat, 15 Nov 1997 01:30:06 -0600 In Message # 00001949 In alt.callahans Post # 00000162 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 12:58:43 In Message # 00001937 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000150 Morgan said: >Morgan's giggle fades slightly, and she and Roland stare at each >other for a moment, then the same film reference occurs to both of >them simultaniously.... > >"Run awaaay! Run awaaaaaaay!" > >Sensing another possible misunderstanding, they immediately send over >the link that the reference is _not_ to be taken literally. /Threat location protocols halted./ Grep sends. "Humour. Interesting." she says aloud. Then... >On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 13:47:54 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001938 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000151 The Lone One said: > Mandy sighs, and rolls her eyes heavenward. "What are we going to >do with you?" She grins, taking the sting out of her words, and >settles the mirrored sunglasses more firmly on her nose. "Anyone up >for raiding the bookstores? We have a platinum credit card." Melissa looks to Mandy. "I was informed credit cards were plastic with a small magnetic strip for encoded data." Finally... >On Fri, 14 Nov 1997 19:28:00 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001940 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000153 Driscoll said: > "I KNOW THEM!!!" He yells, jumps up turning into a large beachball >and bounces over to the group. becoming humanoid again, he stretches >out a hand to everyone, and still has two left to hold his comic. "Oh >wow this is like SUCH an honor like ohmygosohmygodohmygod I have all >your issues. I'm just finishing the new Annual issue with teh wedding >in it and oh my god can I have your autographs?" He thrusts out his >CAoL Comic Book in Roland's face. > The woman gets up and switiches the sun lamp off. "Well we have >celeberties here? I guess i should get dressed." she says in a vocie >that tickles like a bell. She waves her hand over herself and is >suddenly wearing a skin tight evening gown with a very plunging >neckline and slit up the right side almost to her armpit. Melissa squeezes Driss's arm lightly. "I think blending in will no longer be an issue." =========================== Subject: AAE: Introductions all around On Sat, 15 Nov 1997 21:01:44 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001950 In alt.callahans Post # 00000163 Driscoll said: The beautiful owman glides acorss the floor gracefully to Driss. "Hello Little Brother." her voice tinkles. She runs her hand over Driss's cheek and pulls him in close for a passionate kiss. when they release, Driss gives her a wink and readdresses the group. "Before you get too shocked, she's not really my sister. She just dubbed me that because of the similarities we have. Everyone meet Siren." Siren smiles sweetly and shakes any hand offered with an amazing grip. "PLeased to meet you." Shealso gently kisses any men on the cheek. Driss continues witht he introductions. "That kid in front of you Roland is Morph. He's an alien. The hot head in Phoenix, as far as I know no one including himself knows much of his Origin, Sonic Boom you met. And the big Ugly guy with the four arms isn't even a member of the Legion. What are you doing here anyways Armstrong? Shouldn't you be with the Rest of the Hunters in Germany?" Armstrong bows tot he group, then takes a shot which sinks his 3 remaining balls and the 8 ball to win the game. "Actually since the Legion is short handed right now I snuck into the country to give them a hand. And just what are you doing here? last I saw you you were running through that wormhole after Quantum." "Yeh well I didn't come out the right place I guess, couldn't get back and by the time I could other things had come back." Driss shrugged. Siren turned from her close inspection of Knytt's features, "Isn't that just _always_ the way?" A stong wind sprung up from nowhere and all of a sudden there was a shortish man dressed in a leather doublet and Hose. A rapier in his hand flashed in the light. "Zo! You have returned again I Zee. Draw your blade and cross it wit mine _if_ you tink you can Harlequin." Driss rolled his eyes upwards, excused himself from Mellisa and flipped back to a set of swords on the wall. "If you really insist on my beating you again Rapier, lay on." Rapier disappeared into a blur of superspeed, but a moment later is was proven that he was indeed no match for Driss's skill matched wiht the guantlets of speed and seven league boots as Driss held both swords and Rapier just Looked chagrinned. "I keep telling you, you need to stop relying on your speed for your defense. If anything matches that speed you're screwed Frenchie." Driss commented as he tossed Rapier's sword back and returned his own borrowed blade to the wall. "I tat dat I had practiced enough to give you the surprise this time, but once again you prove me wrong. But being in Tijuana when the call came that you were here, I had to race up to see my old sparring partner." Rapier pulls Driss to him in a hug. The TV screen at the end of hte room lights up. "I'm ever so sorry to break up this love-fest, but World War Three is about to break out and I was afraid you might all miss it." Sonic Boom appeared in front of the screen. "OK now, what the bloody 'ell are you jawin' about MERLIN? What's up?" The screen shows a live TV news report with the sound turned off. Several tanks are pouring on the fire against a giant robot who doesn't seem to be phased as it keeps walkign ahead smashign anythign in its path with piledriver fists, explosive charges and a laser. "Wrecker appeared in Israel a few hours ago. No one knows how he got there. Israeli armed forces are trying to stop him, but he just seems to be continuing on. Unfortunately he's continuing on towards the Palestinian Border. He has about 20 miles to go yet. Palestine is saying that Isreal is herding Wrecker there, has ammassed their armies on the border and threaten war if he gets within 5 miles." "Blimey, I'm on me way rest of you catch up right soon ehh?" Tones of "Welcome to the Jungle" increase in volume and then are gone, and Sonic Boom with them. Siren is already flying past the group and out the door, Phoenix right after her. Mimic turns into a little plane and follows next. Armstrong and Rapier look at the exiting Legion and at Driss. "We'd better lend them a hand too. Hold the fort can you?" And without waiting for a response he pulls out a communicator and speaks into it. "Shadow, we need a gate back. We've got trouble brewing." A nearby shadow darkens slightly and Armstrong and Rapier dash through it disappearing. Driss sighs. "They're always in such a hurry. Pool anyone?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE: Introductions all around On Sat, 15 Nov 1997 22:02:20 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001951 In alt.callahans Post # 00000164 "P. Campbell" said: > On Sat, 15 Nov 1997 21:01:44 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001950 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000163 Driscoll said: > > The beautiful owman glides acorss the floor gracefully to Driss. > "Hello Little Brother." her voice tinkles. She runs her hand over > Driss's cheek and pulls him in close for a passionate kiss. when > they release, Driss gives her a wink and readdresses the group. > "Before you get too shocked, she's not really my sister. She just > dubbed me that because of the similarities we have. Everyone meet > Siren." Xzerrion and Tezrantha exchange glances, but maintain expressions that would appear completely blank to anyone without experience with elves. > Siren smiles sweetly and shakes any hand offered with an amazing > grip. "PLeased to meet you." She also gently kisses any men on the > cheek. Xzerrion's ebon skin prevents him from blushing as he bows and kisses the lady's hand. > The TV screen at the end of hte room lights up. "I'm ever so sorry > to break up this love-fest, but World War Three is about to break > out and I was afraid you might all miss it." The two drow glance over. "A talking crystal ball?" Tezrantha asks. "Close enough. Took me a while to learn about these people's magic myself. They call it `technology,'" Xzerrion responds. > Sonic Boom appeared in front of the screen. "OK now, what the > bloody 'ell are you jawin' about MERLIN? What's up?" > The screen shows a live TV news report with the sound turned off. > Several tanks are pouring on the fire against a giant robot who > doesn't seem to be phased as it keeps walkign ahead smashign > anythign in its path with piledriver fists, explosive charges and a > laser. Xzerrion looks at the screen, his eyes widening. "Leira, Mask, and Tymora ..." he breaths softly. > Siren is already flying past the group and out the door, Phoenix > right after her. Mimic turns into a little plane and follows next. > Armstrong and Rapier look at the exiting Legion and at Driss. "We'd > better lend them a hand too. Hold the fort can you?" And without > waiting for a response he pulls out a communicator and speaks into > it. "Shadow, we need a gate back. We've got trouble brewing." > A nearby shadow darkens slightly and Armstrong and Rapier dash > through it disappearing. > Driss sighs. "They're always in such a hurry. Pool anyone?" Xzerrion turns away from the screen and back to the CAoL. "If we're getting involved in this, I think I know how to stop that metal thing. It doesn't look all that different from that critter I shot off Stranger's back in Quaren. A few shots of high powered magnetism ought to shut it down no matter how tough it is, unless this dimension has figured out how to work antimagic. My only question is, is this our fight, or is somebody trying to use this to get us to show ourselves?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE: Introductions all around On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 00:20:04 -0600 In Message # 00001952 In alt.callahans Post # 00000165 Michael Jon Knight said: >On Sat, 15 Nov 1997 21:01:44 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001950 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000163 Driscoll said: > > Siren smiles sweetly and shakes any hand offered with an amazing > grip. Upon reaching Melissa, the grip returned is matched precisely in firmness. >"PLeased to meet you." "Why?" > Siren turned from her close inspection of Knytt's features, "Isn't >that just _always_ the way?" Melissa seems confused by the inspection and regards the heroine with interest in return. > A stong wind sprung up from nowhere and all of a sudden there was a >shortish man dressed in a leather doublet and Hose. A rapier in his >hand flashed in the light. "Zo! You have returned again I Zee. Draw >your blade and cross it wit mine _if_ you tink you can Harlequin." Melissa quickly steps in front of Driss, in a classic martial artist's pose. Left foot shoulder width apart and nearly the same forward of the right, her center of gravity comfortably between, her left forearm held flat, palm flat in a vertical plane before her as if she were wielding a shield, her right hand poised flat horizontally near her ear. "Priority one violation. Do not move." > The TV screen at the end of hte room lights up. "I'm ever so sorry >to break up this love-fest, but World War Three is about to break out >and I was afraid you might all miss it." A relaxed Melissa (I assume someone will explain things.) turns to the screen and watchs with her usual curiousity. > Driss sighs. "They're always in such a hurry. Pool anyone?" Melissa walks about the room, looking at everything. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE: Introductions all around On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 07:55:39 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001953 In alt.callahans Post # 00000166 Driscoll said: > On Sat, 15 Nov 1997 22:02:20 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001951 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000164 "P. Campbell" said: > > Xzerrion turns away from the screen and back to the CAoL. "If we're > getting involved in this, I think I know how to stop that metal > thing. It doesn't look all that different from that critter I shot > off Stranger's back in Quaren. A few shots of high powered magnetism > ought to shut it down no matter how tough it is, unless this > dimension has figured out how to work antimagic. My only question > is, is this our fight, or is somebody trying to use this to get us > to show ourselves?" MERLIN lights up again. "If someone's trying to get you out in the open I think they're looking for you in Downtown LA from what I'm picking up on the Police cameras." The picture shows a street sceen shot from high above. most likely the top of a building. A Semi Truck is stopped in the middle of the street, a ramp extended from teh rear of the trailer, down which dozens of 1/10 scale tanks are rolling, and a bunch of similar scale apache helecopters are hovering around. All teh vehicles seem to have christmas lights stung all over them. People, needless to say are gathering around and gawking, gossiping and pointing. One of the tank's turrents moves towards teh crowd, and a flash of light fires from it into the mass of people. Chaos errupts as the other tanks also start firing their laser cannnons into the crowds and the helecopters begin launching tiny missiles. "Oooooooook, We'll play pool LATER then." says Driss softly as he looks at the slaughter. [Good idea.] adds Roscoe Iron Man doesn't bother to wait to answer, but is already flying back the way the group came. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE: Introductions all around On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 08:05:28 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001954 In alt.callahans Post # 00000167 Driscoll said: > On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 00:20:04 -0600 In Message # 00001952 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000165 Michael Jon Knight said: > >>On Sat, 15 Nov 1997 21:01:44 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001950 >> In alt.callahans Post # 00000163 Driscoll said: >> >> Siren turned from her close inspection of Knytt's features, "Isn't >> that just _always_ the way?" > > the CAoL for some time.> (Doh forgot that and wanted to have her inspecting some seemingly unattached man, meaning, by appearances sake right now at least, you or Stranger, and I thought I remebered Stranger disappearing on a sidetrip. heheheh) > Melissa seems confused by the inspection and regards the heroine > with interest in return. > > what would Melissa observe? ;) > Well judging by the actual muscle use compared to the amount of pressure Siren's giving, she could probably benchpress about 100 tons easily. Her body gives off an energy field that stimulates the pleasure centers of a male brain, and the tonal qualities of her voice mixed with that field should give her mind control ability over men when she wants to. And those are NOT implants. ;-) > Melissa walks about the room, looking at everything. Well, Morph left a pile of CAoL comics and a couple cans of Jolt laying by the couch, someone forgot to do the dishes from breakfast this morning umm.... ;-) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE: Introductions all around On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 07:42:41 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001955 In alt.callahans Post # 00000168 Nemisis said: > On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 07:55:39 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001953 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000166 Driscoll said: > > "Oooooooook, We'll play pool LATER then." says Driss softly as he > looks at the slaughter. > [Good idea.] adds Roscoe > Iron Man doesn't bother to wait to answer, but is already flying > back the way the group came. Dorn Settles down to read CAoL Comics. The Dorn In Astral Space heads for the Publishers offices to find out how much detail about us has been printed in this universe. "It seems probable that this co-incident activity level by hostiles is intended to keep us from aiding or being aided by the local Heros, as well as find out where we are." \The Replica's of each of us that responds to one or the other of these events will respond to the other event.\ =========================== Subject: OOC: Re: AAE: Introductions all around On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 07:47:52 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001956 In alt.callahans Post # 00000169 Nemisis said: > On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 08:05:28 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001954 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000167> Driscoll said: > > (Doh forgot that and wanted to have her inspecting some seemingly > unattached man, meaning, by appearances sake right now at least, you > or Stranger, and I thought I remebered Stranger disappearing on a > sidetrip. heheheh) It seems you have forgotten Fuzzy, Dorn, and Ironman... all three of those appear to be male and do not have a female companion close by... =========================== Subject: Re: OOC: Re: AAE: Introductions all around On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 11:48:32 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001957 In alt.callahans Post # 00000170 Driscoll said: > On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 07:47:52 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001956 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000169 Nemisis said: > > It seems you have forgotten Fuzzy, Dorn, and Ironman... all three of > those appear to be male and do not have a female companion close > by... OK Ok I admit it I'm braindead lately. For some reason I was thinking Nemesis was still in female form and hanging out next to Fuzzy. I forgot your post the other day abotu Nemesis being in Dorn form minus the scar. And Ironman's locked up in his suit so he wouldn't be much fun for her to study. ;-) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE: Introductions all around On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 12:00:25 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00001958 In alt.callahans Post # 00000171 Driscoll said: > On Sun, 16 Nov 1997 07:42:41 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00001955 > In alt.callahans Post # 00000168 Nemisis said: > > Dorn Settles down to read CAoL Comics. > > The Dorn In Astral Space heads for the Publishers offices to find > out how much detail about us has been printed in this universe. > > would but data in the info-gnat's mouth, or at least Dorn's...> Morph seems to have all of them, the newest being the one on the wedding. All in all they aren't that accurate. At least to those who lived through it all. Fuzzy is drawn looking like a cat in humanoid form, Knytt never becomes female. all the men are drawn highly muscled and the women very well endowed with hourglass figures. Roscoe never seems to change out of wolf form and Cutter and Leetah are missing most of the time. Nemesis is portreyed as a floating glowing silvery ball that can transform things by toucing them... > "It seems probable that this co-incident activity level by hostiles > is intended to keep us from aiding or being aided by the local > Heros, as well as find out where we are." [I wouldn't doubt it in the least,] replies Roscoe [But it isn't te first tiem we've gone waltzing into what we knew was a trap and we can't just sit here and let those toys turn downtown LA into _more_ of a warzone can we?] =========================== Subject: Re: AAE IV: The Face of the Enemy On Sun, 16 Nov 97 13:37:40 -0800 In Message # 00001959 In alt.callahans Post # 00000172 Roland X said: > Protocal droids, R2units and Controller Drones scamble around the >large hanger disassembling starfighters and tramp freighters while >human slaves in electroic necka dn arm slave bands haul the salvage >down cooridorsto where it is needed most. Amdist all teh confusion >stands The Controller directing it as a conductor would direct a >symphony. > "Shadow! Why would I want anything from _you?_ You failed me once >already adn that is one too many times for my tastes. You and yoru >kind abandonded me in Arcadia. Left me to the mercies of the Army of >Light and cost em my life and humanity. _You_ are as much to blame >for how I am now as they are. begone from my sight!! I need nothing >from you. The scanning equipment Jadis gave me for delivering John to >him will give me the ability to track the Army of Light wherever they >may be. No longer can they hide from me. My vengence shall be at >hand, and _you_ shall not be a part of it. Go back to the black hole >you crawled out of." For a moment vast multidimensional energies seethe around KnightMare. *You-* KnightMare lapses into physical speech for a moment. "YOU DARE!" The energies fade. KnightMare settles back onto its legs, regarding the Controller coolly. *No. You are not worth my time. The precious humanity you long for was gone long before the so-called 'heroes' did anything to you. And as for what _you_ did to _my_ plans...I would make you suffer for decades before allowing you to die. Instead, I simply leave you with this: your plans are dust, the Army of Light will destroy you, and your legacy will be known only by he who seeks to undo it. Farewell, 'Controller.'* KnightMare vanishes. ===========================