Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 4
                              Chapter 14

Date: Mon, 9 Feb 1998 21:06:16 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Mon, 09 Feb 1998 20:58:57 In Message # 00002786
 In alt.callahans Post # 00000999 Morgan said:

>On Mon, 9 Feb 1998 00:59:28 EST In Message # 00002774
> In alt.callahans Post # 00000987 Dane0R0A said:
>
<megasnip>
>"We will be needing a base of operations." Armegedon says, as he
>rises into the sky above the church. He points 1 finger at the river
>and a tiny spark shoots down into the water. In seconds the river is
>alive with what seems to be millions of sparks (because there are
>millions of them). Suddenly a cloud of sparks rise into the sky to
>settle on, what remains, of London, in a one mile wide circle
>centered around the church. Everything (that isn't an internationally
>well known landmark) vanishes beneath the cloud. Any humans that are
>inside this area and not already in the church are GENTLY carried to
>the church. The cloud coalesces in numerous spots, leaving behind
>flat bare gound. The places where the cloud coalesed take on shape,
>and then the sparks flash to the outstreached hand of Armegedon. What
>remains are banks of energy weapons of assorted kinds, and (to those
>that can recognize them) sheild generators.

   Roland chuckles. "Interesting. Are you familiar with a human work
of fiction called 'Forbidden Planet?' Nice force screen."

>In the center of this all the church, with 5 obvious missle silo's
>spaced about 100 feet from it on all sides. Armegedon surveys the
>construction, and comments, "My constructors did well. This should
>serve us for a beginning, and as soon as Hydra can get me the exact
>coordinates of the five Grey worlds he has already found, I can
>launch."

   Roland stops chuckling. "I trust that you are not truly implying
that you're doing what you seem to be doing. I was working under the
assumption that your posturing to the Greys about wiping them out was
just that." Any active telepaths hear him 'mutter' in his thoughts, /I
should know better than to assume./ "If we use the methods of the
Greys to fight them, how are we better than our enemies?"

   A .sig appears in mid air near Roland:
--
 Truth beyond Paradox.
 Roland X, Freelance Immortal
 "Do not become your enemy to defeat your enemy."
 -epitaph, Captain Marvel (Mar-Vell)
   (OOC: A blast from the past. <g>)

Later,
>On Mon, 09 Feb 1998 07:53:00 In Message # 00002780
> In alt.callahans Post # 00000993 Morgan said:
>
>>On Mon, 9 Feb 1998 01:35:40 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002775
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00000988 Xzerrion said:
>>
>>Xzerrion sighs. <* Sometime, just once, I wish we could try being
>>subtle, like maybe trying to make them *think* we gave up and left.
>>It could get easier if they aren't looking for us. *>
>
><*Us? Subtle?! Since when?*> Morgan replies wryly.

   Roland blushes (tm). *Okay, maybe we should discuss this once we
meet the Resistance...*

<snip II>
>>Xzerrion buries his head in his hands. He restrains comment, but
>>those with strong mental abilities catch a vivid image of a blinking
>>neon sign flashing, "We are here."
>
>Morgan can only chuckle agreement. <*Hopefully the resistance will
>still communicate with us after this rather ostentatious display,*>
>she mutters.

   *Ouch. Good point.* Roland sighs. *I wonder if this world has any
human psychics...*

<*Well, honey, what's your range? Can you check?*> Morgan asks.

   *Not without alerting the Greys,* Roland sends, head bowed. *I've
worked so long and so hard on my psychokinesis...I'm a good telepath.
I know my way around the astral plane. But I'm far from a psilord.*

Morgan's ears perk up at the word 'astral.' <*Can Sil check?*>

   Roland frowns. *Too dangerous-*
   *Like hell,* Sil laughs, and the body stiffens. The HIT Mark stares
blankly at our surroundings.
   "Bloody sprocking grife! SIL!" Roland slaps his head. Anyone
scanning can tell that Sil is not in the immediate area.
   (OOC: Stranger, if you don't want Sil to find anything, we've got
it covered.)

>>On Mon, 9 Feb 1998 02:31:17 -0600 In Message # 00002777
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00000990 Michael Jon Knight said:
>>
>>>On Sun, 8 Feb 1998 23:27:44 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002776
>>> In alt.callahans Post # 00000989 The Lone One said:
>>>
>>>  A sound emerges from Raver, who has been largely silent up until
>>>now. It sounds suspiciously like a laugh ruthlessly strangled to
>>>death,

   (OOC: Ever consider writing as a career? That line sent chills down
_my_ spine. -the English major w/Writing concentration [aka Roland])

><*Roland, do you think you could manage 'covert'? We definately fit
>the 'hard to kill' category, and I'd be just as happy being away from
>this invitation to make us Ground Zero for a while.*>

   *I need the practice anyway,* Roland sends with a shrug. One tap on
the belt and Roland's civvies appear.

><assuming the cosmic level members explain in detail why we're safe
>here regardless of what the bad guys throw at us>

   (OOC: Well _there_ was an easy prediction. <G> Anyway, this lets
the less cosmic characters have some 'fun' without having to include a
deus ex machina-literally-to balance the scales. This also lets the
cosmic boys have _their_ fun without having to worry about the lesser
beings underfoot. <g> The JLA writers did this every other month.)

><*Yeah, yeah, OK, but I still think it's better if the Immortals join
>the recon team.*>

   *At the very least, I make a good barricade.* Roland laughs softly.
*Also, something I've been wanting to try...* Roland concentrates, and
begins to turn transparent. *A Photokinetic stunt that I haven't used
in a while.*

<*And what is _that_ supposed to accomplish?*> Morgan asks her
translucent mate.

   Roland looks down and...well, you all know him well enough to know
he's blushing, even if you can't see it. <g> He concentrates harder,
and fades the rest of the way out of sight. *There. Better.* There's
the sound of a few steps taken, then a 'thump' and a table jostled. *I
think.* Morgan shakes her head and sighs. *Well, I _said_ I need
practice.*
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 01:05:41 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 01:02:53 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002787
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001000 The Lone One said:

On Mon, 9 Feb 1998, Morgan wrote:

>>>> A sound emerges from Raver, who has been largely silent up until
>>>>now. It sounds suspiciously like a laugh ruthlessly strangled to
>>>>death,
>
>    (OOC: Ever consider writing as a career? That line sent chills
> down _my_ spine. -the English major w/Writing concentration [aka
> Roland])

OOC: Yeah, but only as a sideline, unless I miraculously squeeze onto
the New York Bestsellers List. *grin!*

>><*Yeah, yeah, OK, but I still think it's better if the Immortals
>>join the recon team.*>

     Raver smiled softly and eagerly, shifting their weight to the
other foot. "Very well. So far, we have Tezrantha and Xzerrion, Grep,
Roland, Morgan, and us on the...recon team. Any suggestions as to what
we should hit, as long as it is hit hard?"

>    Roland looks down and...well, you all know him well enough to
> know he's blushing, even if you can't see it. <g> He concentrates
> harder, and fades the rest of the way out of sight. *There. Better.*
> There's the sound of a few steps taken, then a 'thump' and a table
> jostled. *I think.* Morgan shakes her head and sighs. *Well, I
> _said_ I need practice.*

OOC: Wait...a table? Does this mean that the CAoL is now sitting in
the Church of Offensiveness? *g, d & r*
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 04:35:24 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE: Enter Legion

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 07:04:58 -0500 In Message # 00002788
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001001 Caprice said:

From the pocket dimension she refers to simply as Home, Legion watched
the goings on of the CAoL with a sigh. Her attempts to find the
missing CAoL members had been mostly fruitless, and now this...

"You wouldn't see a subtle plan if it painted itself purple and danced
naked on top of a harpsichord singing 'Subtle plans are here
again'..." The mutter was barely vocalized, and drew a curious meow
from Mischief. "A line from Black Adder... Part of my deal with Essex
is that he records episodes for me when I'm off dimension." Legion
sighed. "This is -not- going to be a fun dimension... still, I should
have a few days and if I can find my double before then..."

Legion turned, and headed into a walk-in closet larger than most
bedrooms. When she emerged again, she was dressed in khaki pants that
were stained, but still sturdy, heavy boots, a faded plaid flannel
shirt, and a jacket of olive drab. Next she fetched a backpack, which
she took her time carefully packing. When she was done she hoisted the
backpack onto her back, and Mischief climbed aboard it, hiding under a
flap.

Her scan found her doppleganger in a rebel base hidden in the
mountains of New York State. However the resistance would be
paranoid... just showing up was out of the question. It took some
searching to find a possible positive first contact... a kid in his
teens exploring the sub-basements of a burnt out school in Westchester
County who appearently was unable to get out again.

Legion appeared some distance away, and made her way through the
ruined school as if scouting herself. When she reached the pit the kid
was in she cocked her head, listening. "Hey... Is someone down there?"

(OOC: If anyone wants to take over the kid, let me know... otherwise,
I'll post again tonight.)
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 05:35:32 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 04:23:55 PST In Message # 00002789
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001002 Nemo said:

> On Mon, 9 Feb 1998 01:35:40 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002775
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00000988 Xzerrion said:
>
> Xzerrion sighs. <* Sometime, just once, I wish we could try being
> subtle, like maybe trying to make them *think* we gave up and left.
> It could get easier if they aren't looking for us. *>

/You actually expect Armageddon to be subtle? Since I know that *he*
won't be, I might as well do a little of my own./

> Tezrantha's face goes a bit cold. <* I can't like that. You're
> calling a doomsday weapon here. Remember, this world is home to more
> than humans. *>

/Not for long, given what the Greys are doing. Very little above the
level of *primitive* bacteria would last long under these conditions.
And most of them are deep enough in the oceans or the crust that even
my bombardment wouldn't greatly affect them./

>>  "On the other hand, if the humans survive, but we can't eject the
>> Greys, then I can shift them to Venus as it becomes habitable. So
>> either way, we can get *something* out of this mess."
>
> Tezrantha asks, <*And if we win, do you plan on shifting the comets
> back? *>

/They are still bound for Venus. Given the small size of the required
shift, they'll only be shifted if we lose. Even if this manifestation
is destroyed NEMO will remember and make the required changes./

> Xzerrion buries his head in his hands. He restrains comment, but
> those with strong mental abilities catch a vivid image of a blinking
> neon sign flashing, "We are here."

Nemo comments dryly.

"Now that you've finished creating that lovely target, would you care
to accompany me to a nice unobtrusive base? We don't *need* obvious
weapons like those. Why waste time attacking thru real-space?"

<OOC: more on my idea of an unobtrusive base later, unless someone
beats me to it>
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 05:35:43 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 04:34:04 PST In Message # 00002790
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001003 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
>>Xzerrion replies, <* But I do see the point. We can't allow the
>>Greys to hold this place. *>
>
> Grep asks, /Why not? If we are not supposed to jump into a fight
> between an unarmed human and a small spaceship until we know all the
> facts, why are we doing it for a race of humans against a
> spacefaring race?/

Nemo's thoughts bear a considerable amount of amusement.

/Please use your brain for something other than keeping that lovely
head of yours from imploding, dear girl./

/I advised caution in the first case because we did not know the
situation or the players. Those conditions no longer apply. Since we
have exhausted negotiation for the nonce, we now operate under the
Third Canon of Metalaw. Or at least those of us who consider the
humans to be "our" race are so operating./
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 05:35:52 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 04:50:15 PST In Message # 00002791
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001004 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
>    Roland looks down and...well, you all know him well enough to
> know he's blushing, even if you can't see it. <g> He concentrates
> harder, and fades the rest of the way out of sight. *There. Better.*
> There's the sound of a few steps taken, then a 'thump' and a table
> jostled. *I think.* Morgan shakes her head and sighs. *Well, I
> _said_ I need practice.*

Nemo tosses a small object at a point near the "thump".

"Roland! Catch!"

There's a pop, and a human figure is outlined by some sort of dust or
powder. <OOC: it's just a fine, non-toxic, biodegradable powder>

"Now that I have your attention..... I have a few matters of some
import to bring up before you go scouting."

Glancing at Armageddon, he continues.

"I note that my colleague's description of the defenses here did *not*
include magic. This fits in well with one of my plans. And we have
just the person here to help us gain a base that is both undetectable,
*and* proof against most magic."

He fixes his gaze on Knytt.

"Would you be so kind as to confirm that what I have located is in
fact your your 'Crystal Cave'? I believe it is time for Merlin to
fulfill the legend and return Arthur in the hour of England's greatest
need."

<OOC: If Stranger doesn't *want* the cave to be available or to exist,
then I'll have found a good imitation, and we'll screen it and go with
"the Return of the King" as a scam. If it *is* the cave, well, I'll
leave to to Stranger and Knytt.>

To such members of the party as seem likely to know such things...

/We could also use a *lot* of unicorns, as their anti-magic, and
especially anti-*poison* effects would be most useful. Ditto various
nature spirits. I'm fairly certain that we have the Greys preparing
for a massive hyper-tech onslaught. So I anf Armageddon can give them
that. Meanwhile, you can blindside them with the forces of Gaea.>
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 08:35:48 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 08:16:28 In Message # 00002792
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001005 Morgan said:

>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 04:50:15 PST In Message # 00002791
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001004 Nemo said:
>
>Nemo tosses a small object at a point near the "thump".
>
>"Roland! Catch!"
>
>There's a pop, and a human figure is outlined by some sort of dust or
>powder. <OOC: it's just a fine, non-toxic, biodegradable powder>

   Actually, he doesn't. Photokinesis bends the light around an
object; sprinkling that object doesn't make it show up. OTOH, there's
a good chance that there's a Roland-sized hole in the dust cloud just
before it's blown into the pews.

<snip>
>/We could also use a *lot* of unicorns, as their anti-magic, and
> especially anti-*poison* effects would be most useful. Ditto various
> nature spirits. I'm fairly certain that we have the Greys preparing
> for a massive hyper-tech onslaught. So I anf Armageddon can give
> them that. Meanwhile, you can blindside them with the forces of
> Gaea.>

   *IMO, there have _never_ been a 'lot' of unicorns in any dimension
populated by humans.* Roland replies.

<*Aye, that's true as best I ken,*> Morgan confirms, slipping into her
brogue as the subject turns to things she knew long before she'd ever
heard of Callahans. <OOC recap for our newer readers: Morgan was born
in the Scottish Highlands in 1288, learned the 'ald ways' from her
grandfather, and fought with her Clan's warriors. She was already a
Druidess when she found her way through some sort of time portal to
the Place. She's adapted to the paradigm of being a dimension hopping
crusader for Light, but where/when she grew up still affects her
mindset. And she speaks a better brogue than I type ;-).>

<*An' I wounna count on the wee folk helping. E'en in _my_ time they'd
stopped fer the most part interferin' in the matters of men, and they
ha' their own safe places ta retreat to.*> She sighs, slowly shaking
her head. <*Ah ken search while we're on recon, but I dunna hold much
hope o' findin' anyone, let alone anyone willin' ta help. As fer
'Nature' herself, well,*> a small smile appears on the Highlander's
lips. <*_That_ Lady keeps Her own council. She _might_ respond to a
direct call for aid, but She'll do as _She_ wills and not necessarily
what _we_ would think best.*>
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 10:35:30 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 13:15:36 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002793
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001006 Xzerrion said:

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998, Leonard Erickson wrote:
> To such members of the party as seem likely to know such things...
>
> /We could also use a *lot* of unicorns, as their anti-magic, and
> especially anti-*poison* effects would be most useful. Ditto various
> nature spirits. I'm fairly certain that we have the Greys preparing
> for a massive hyper-tech onslaught. So I anf Armageddon can give
> them that. Meanwhile, you can blindside them with the forces of
> Gaea.>

A deep mental voice bespeaks the whole group. <* Ahem. I had not
wished to reveal my true nature to many of you, preferring to keep my
own council. However, if you wish to involve my kindred, I will speak
to such as dwell in this world. It would be appreciated, however, if
my true nature was not made general knowledge. *>

- Dantris
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 14:35:44 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 16:12:00 -0600 In Message # 00002794
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001007 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 04:34:04 PST In Message # 00002790
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001003 Nemo said:
>
>In mail you write:
>> Grep asks, /Why not? If we are not supposed to jump into a fight
>> between an unarmed human and a small spaceship until we know all
>> the facts, why are we doing it for a race of humans against a
>> spacefaring race?/
>
>Nemo's thoughts bear a considerable amount of amusement.
>
>/Please use your brain for something other than keeping that lovely
> head of yours from imploding, dear girl./

Knytt quickly takes Melissa's hand, stopping her from completeing the
gesture she had been forming.

>/I advised caution in the first case because we did not know the
> situation or the players. Those conditions no longer apply. Since we
> have exhausted negotiation for the nonce, we now operate under the
> Third Canon of Metalaw. Or at least those of us who consider the
> humans to be "our" race are so operating./

/But we haven't spoken to all the players. You forget, this isn't your
Earth, or anyone else's except for John's. He's gone to get the real
Earthers. So, before you start stockpiling, you might wish to ask the
people you want to protect what they want to do first. You may not be
able to ask them all, but you should at least ask SOME of them./
Melissa sends huffily.

Grep adds, /As for your Canons, Moses, you can stick them up-/

/One more word,/ Knytt sends forcefully, /and you two will be grounded
for the next decade. You've said your piece, it is a valid point,
don't make it personal./

/Before we get too involved, let's ask the inhabitants what they would
rather do. Though,/ Knytt adds, looking at the twins, /The likely
answer will be that they want their home back. But we should present
them with all the options./
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 14:35:54 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 16:12:04 -0600 In Message # 00002795
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001008 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 04:50:15 PST In Message # 00002791
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001004 Nemo said:
>
>>><*Yeah, yeah, OK, but I still think it's better if the Immortals
>>>join the recon team.*>

Knytt looks around for somewhere to sit and study his new book.

>>    *At the very least, I make a good barricade.* Roland laughs
>> softly. *Also, something I've been wanting to try...* Roland
>> concentrates, and begins to turn transparent. *A Photokinetic stunt
>> that I haven't used in a while.*
>>
>> <*And what is _that_ supposed to accomplish?*> Morgan asks her
>> translucent mate.

Not finding one, he decides to write one into existance. He sits down
at a small card table with three chairs. The twins join him.

>>    Roland looks down and...well, you all know him well enough to
>> know he's blushing, even if you can't see it. <g> He concentrates
>> harder, and fades the rest of the way out of sight. *There.
>> Better.* There's the sound of a few steps taken, then a 'thump' and
>> a table jostled. *I think.* Morgan shakes her head and sighs.
>> *Well, I _said_ I need practice.*

/Oops, sorry, Roland./

Knytt looks at the pen and inkwell. "What I wouldn't give for a
ballpoint pen." To his surprise, the pen seems to melt and reform into
a gold ballpoint pen. "Or a pen-based computer," he adds
experimentally. The book and pen shift forms and a thin cord grows
between them. A matte black 9" by 12" by 1" backlit LCD display sits
on the card table. The cord is black and connects to a small, plain
round black plastic pen. "Lose the cord." Knytt adds, and the cord
between pen and computer vanishes.

>"I note that my colleague's description of the defenses here did
> *not* include magic. This fits in well with one of my plans. And we
> have just the person here to help us gain a base that is both
> undetectable, *and* proof against most magic."
>
>He fixes his gaze on Knytt.

Knytt stops blowing dust off the screen of the computer and looks at
Nemo. "What?"

>/We could also use a *lot* of unicorns, as their anti-magic, and
> especially anti-*poison* effects would be most useful. Ditto various
> nature spirits. I'm fairly certain that we have the Greys preparing
> for a massive hyper-tech onslaught. So I anf Armageddon can give
> them that. Meanwhile, you can blindside them with the forces of
> Gaea.>

"My what?" Knytt looks at Nemo like he's off his rocker. The twins put
their feet up on the card table, with a wide grin on both their faces.

"Wrong dimension," they say in unison. Knytt knocks their feet off
with a muttered "Straighten up."

"Arthur is long dead, Nemo, and his entire life as King was witnessed
by these two." Knytt says.

"We never came here." the twins say.

"And I never made such a promise anyway. Besides, I don't know a thing
about magic. Everything we did was pure technology. Force field
generators, holography, a disruptor or two, and a heck of a lot of
knowledge of the future. I wouldn't have even touched that dimension
if I hadn't been witnessed there. Whatever you've found, it isn't
mine."
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 17:06:01 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 00:41:58 -0800 In Message # 00002797
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001010 Gareth L Owen said:

Dane0R0A wrote:
> Armegedon surveys the construction, and comments, "My constructors
> did well. This should serve us for a beginning, and as soon as Hydra
> can get me the exact coordinates of the five Grey worlds he has
> already found, I can launch."

There are about four or five hundred humans in the church, mostly they
seem to be bedraggled civilian survivors, but there are about fifty or
sixty who are obviously soldiers (camo gear, guns, that sort of
thing).

"What the hell is going on!" Shouts one of them, a tall, dark haired
man wearing combat fatigues (with the rank markings of a Lt Col for
those in the know) and a green beret and carrying an SA80 assualt
rifle.

Another men approaches, this one is younger, blonde with blue eyes and
slightly shorter. He also wears combat fatigues (with the rank
markings of a Major), although his beret is beige and he carries an
M16.

"Colonel Roberts, I don't know what's happening here, but could it be
the work of the people Mr Black told us about? It doesn't look like
the Grey's handiwork to me."

"Why not!?"

"Well, we're still alive, for a start."

<OOC: What happened to the wandering gengeneered monsters released by
the Greys, some of them have biochemistry closer to human norms than
grey norms?>
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 17:35:42 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE4: Silent Running

On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 01:13:36 -0800 In Message # 00002798
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001011 Gareth L Owen said:

Deep beneath the North Atlantic, four submarines slid slowly and
silently through the darkness.

A British Trafalgar Class SSn led the way, followed by a Russian Oskar
III SSGN. Off to the right of these two cruised the USS Pasadena, an
American Los Angeles Class SSN. Finally a Chinese Han Class SSN
followed as rearguard. It was an unusual convoy, in unusual times.

On the bridge of the Oskar, an unusual man kept watch. He didn't wear
the uniform of a sailor, but rather a black jumpsuit and cloak. His
belt was equiped with things that the crew had never seen before. They
knew him only as 'The Man In Black', he had refused to give a name to
anyone, so when they had to speak they addressed him simply as Mr
Black.

<OOC: This conversation takes place in Russian, of course>

"They're here."

"Sir?" The chief of the boat was puzzled, who was here?

"The people I told you of. Could you fetch the captain for me please?"

A rating was despatched to fetch the captain from his dayroom.

"Come right eighty five degrees."

"Come right, eight five degree, aye sir."

The Captain arrived.

"Sir," started Mr Black "The people I told you about are here, things
will start to swing in our favour now."

"How can you be sure?" The Captain was puzzled.

"I just know. Like the time I knew that alien patrol craft was waiting
for us. I just know things. Anyway, I need to get to them, so I'm
going to take the Pasadena and try and put to shore somewhere in
Scotland."

"Your sure about this?"

"Yes, I need to get to them, before they do anything rash. They may
not realise exactly what they're up against."

The submarine completed it's long slow turn, straightening out in the
inky darkness.

"I took the liberty of ordering a turn to check our baffles, before we
surface, if your prepared to surface to let me transfer."

"Of course! You still have the conn, take her up."

Mr Black picked up the intercom.

"Sonar, conn. Are our baffles clear?"

"Conn, sonar, no contacts at present."

"OK, Captian Petrovska, remember you have to deliver those warheads to
the fleet, I'll be in touch using the radio apparatus I gave you when
we are ready to fire, so the fleet has to get into position as soon as
possible. I'll leave you the  Trafalgar and Han, they should be enough
to see off any alien subs."

"Da! They are lousy sailors, there world must lack oceans, I don't see
why else they'd be so bad, and they use copies of our submarines."

Mr Black smiled "Who'd have thunk it?"

Captain Petrovska extended his hand and Mr Black shook it warmly.

"Take care of yourself, my friend, and watch out for the alien Los
Angeles we picked up three days ago, you'll be running straight past
it."

"It won't stop me. Stealth or firepower, one way or another."

The Captain laughed. "I will deliver your warheads, you can rely on
me."

Half an hour later the Oskar and USS Pasadena surfaced and Mr Black
quickly rowed from one to the other, before they slipped back beneath
the waves of the North Atlantic.

<OOC: Yes, yes, alright, calm down. We all know who Mr Black is :-)
but he is far too well shielded for any telepaths to pick him up at
the moment, he's grown somewhat since last time you met him>
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 19:05:46 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 21:36:44 EST In Message # 00002800
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001013 Dane0R0A said:

In a message dated 98-02-10 21:02:32 EST, you write:

<< The Stranger wrote:
 <OOC: What happened to the wandering gengeneered monsters released by
the Greys, some of them have biochemistry closer to human norms than
grey norms?>
  >>
<<OOC: ANYTHING that didn't scan as PURE human would have been
converted into energy, by as many of the constructor sparks as it took
to overcome the defenses of the not pure human. Armagedon plays a
rough game, with only three rules: you win, you live; you lose, you
die; Hydra added the third one, Armegedon can't destroy the Earth, as
long as there are CAoLers, or any Earth native (natural born as
opposed to bio-engineered) sentient beings left on it. Absent those
however and Earth is toast.>>
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 19:05:55 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 21:51:25 EST In Message # 00002801
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001014 Dane0R0A said:

<< Roland wrote:
 >In the center of this all the church, with 5 obvious missle silo's
 >spaced about 100 feet from it on all sides. Armegedon surveys the
 >construction, and comments, "My constructors did well. This should
 >serve us for a beginning, and as soon as Hydra can get me the exact
 >coordinates of the five Grey worlds he has already found, I can
 >launch."

    Roland stops chuckling. "I trust that you are not truly implying
that you're doing what you seem to be doing. I was working under the
assumption that your posturing to the Greys about wiping them out was
just that." Any active telepaths hear him 'mutter' in his thoughts, /I
should know better than to assume./ "If we use the methods of the
Greys to fight them, how are we better than our enemies?"

    A .sig appears in mid air near Roland:
 --
  Truth beyond Paradox.
  Roland X, Freelance Immortal
  "Do not become your enemy to defeat your enemy."
  -epitaph, Captain Marvel (Mar-Vell)
    (OOC: A blast from the past. <g>)
  >>
Armagedon shrugs and replies "I am a Hunter-Seeker, composed of 1000
Hunter-Seekers. It is my function to find my target and destroy it.
Hydra was not bluffing. If the Greys refuse to leave the Earth, I am
PROGRAMMED to exterminate them from this Universe. While I might be
considered an assasin I am not a skulker in shadows. I will apply as
much force as I have, consistant with my programming to destroy my
target. Hydra will not allow me to destroy this world to eliminate the
Greys on it, unless they are the only sentients (besides myself) on
it. He has given them until their ultimatum has run out to leave this
world. If they have not done so at that time, they will be
eradicated."
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 19:06:04 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 18:55:05 PST In Message # 00002802
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001015 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
>>Nemo's thoughts bear a considerable amount of amusement.
>>
>>/Please use your brain for something other than keeping that lovely
>> head of yours from imploding, dear girl./
>
> Knytt quickly takes Melissa's hand, stopping her from completeing
> the gesture she had been forming.

<OOC: Sorry, that came across a *lot* "snippier" than I intended. It
was meant more as a joke than an insult. <sigh>>
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 19:06:13 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 18:57:17 PST In Message # 00002803
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001016 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
>>"Would you be so kind as to confirm that what I have located is in
>> fact your your 'Crystal Cave'? I believe it is time for Merlin to
>> fulfill the legend and return Arthur in the hour of England's
>> greatest need."
<snip>
> "My what?" Knytt looks at Nemo like he's off his rocker. The twins
> put their feet up on the card table, with a wide grin on both their
> faces.
>
> "Wrong dimension," they say in unison. Knytt knocks their feet off
> with a muttered "Straighten up."
>
> "Arthur is long dead, Nemo, and his entire life as King was
> witnessed by these two." Knytt says.
>
> "We never came here." the twins say.
>
> "And I never made such a promise anyway. Besides, I don't know a
> thing about magic. Everything we did was pure technology. Force
> field generators, holography, a disruptor or two, and a heck of a
> lot of knowledge of the future. I wouldn't have even touched that
> dimension if I hadn't been witnessed there. Whatever you've found,
> it isn't mine."

"I am aware of that. But you are *entirely* too close an analog of
just about *any* Earth's Merlin for us to ignore the potentialities
involved."

Nemo grins.

"And as for it being 'pure technology', I assume that your recent
manipulations are also 'pure technology'?"
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 23:13:15 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Becoming Your Enemy

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 21:31:17 -0600 In Message # 00002807
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001020 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 18:57:17 PST In Message # 00002803
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001016 Nemo said:
>
>"I am aware of that. But you are *entirely* too close an analog of
> just about *any* Earth's Merlin for us to ignore the potentialities
> involved."

Knytt looks confused. "I am?"

>Nemo grins.
>
>"And as for it being 'pure technology', I assume that your recent
> manipulations are also 'pure technology'?"

Knytt frowns at that. "I don't know..."
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 23:13:24 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 19:48:21 In Message # 00002808
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001021 Morgan said:

>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 16:12:00 -0600 In Message # 00002794
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001007 Michael Jon Knight said:
>
>>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 04:34:04 PST In Message # 00002790
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00001003 Nemo said:
>>
Xzerrion wrote:
>>
>>>>Xzerrion replies, <* But I do see the point. We can't allow the
>>>>Greys to hold this place. *>
>>>
>>> Grep asks, /Why not? If we are not supposed to jump into a fight
>>> between an unarmed human and a small spaceship until we know all
>>> the facts, why are we doing it for a race of humans against a
>>> spacefaring race?/

   *Depends on what you mean by 'all' the facts. The Greys invaded and
slaughtered millions. The survivors are toast unless we do something.
IMO, those are all the facts we need-*

>>/Please use your brain for something other than keeping that lovely
>> head of yours from imploding, dear girl./
>
>Knytt quickly takes Melissa's hand, stopping her from completeing the
>gesture she had been forming.

   (OOC: Why? <g>)

Morgan calmly reaches into one of Roland's pockets, pulls out a square
of white cloth, and gently flicks Nemo with it.

   *What was that?* Roland asks. *And how did you choose what came out
of my XD pocket?*

<*The man required 'paffing' with the Politeness Hanky,*> Morgan
replies matter-of-factly, <*and it _is_ _our_ brain.*>

   Roland sighs, though he can't help but smile...

<snip>
>Grep adds, /As for your Canons, Moses, you can stick them up-/

Moragn sends quietly, <*You go, girl.*>

>/Before we get too involved, let's ask the inhabitants what they
>would rather do. Though,/ Knytt adds, looking at the twins, /The
>likely answer will be that they want their home back. But we should
>present them with all the options./

   *Well, that's all well and good, but IMO human is human. I'm human.
This makes it my fight too.* Roland looks around...

<*Ours,*> Morgan corrects.

...and Stranger said:
>"Colonel Roberts, I don't know what's happening here, but could it be
>the work of the people Mr Black told us about? It doesn't look like
>the Grey's handiwork to me."
>
>"Why not!?"
>
>"Well, we're still alive, for a start."

   *Well, _my_ perceptions have hit an all-time low,* Roland comments
ruefully. *That's the first time I've missed an entire town
population.*

<*You and all the rest of us, apparently,*> Morgan grins.

He turns to Colonel Roberts. "Sir, I am genetically human. You can
test me if you like." He holds out his hands to make the point-and
realizes that he's still invisible. He releases the visible band of
the EM spectrum and fades back into sight.

Morgan walks over to Roland quietly, taking his hand.

   "I am...unusual...but human all the same, and with you or on my
own, I intend to bloody the Greys' collective nose. (Assuming they
have one.) My lady is human as well. As for the others..." Roland
shrugs. "They have fought for people in need regardless of species in
the past. We're here to help."
   (OOC: Roland is, in fact, fully human from a genetic standpoint.
His immortality comes from the energies flowing into him and his
astral 'self' being attached to his body on a primal level.)
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 23:13:35 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 23:36:14 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002809
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001022 Shadow <pookie> said:

> On Mon, 9 Feb 1998 00:59:28 EST In Message # 00002774
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00000987 Dane0R0A said:
>
> Armegedon surveys the construction, and comments, "My constructors
> did well. This should serve us for a beginning, and as soon as Hydra
> can get me the exact coordinates of the five Grey worlds he has
> already found, I can launch."

Rhiannon watches all this work go on with a disbeleiving stare,
"Right, okay. How about you stay here and draw all their attention
while we go and actually do something about this? Covert Op anyone?"
===========================

Date: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 23:13:53 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 00:50:27 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002811
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001024 Shadow <pookie> said:

> On Mon, 09 Feb 1998 07:53:00 In Message # 00002780
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00000993 Morgan said:
>
>>On Mon, 9 Feb 1998 02:31:17 -0600 In Message # 00002777
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00000990 Michael Jon Knight said:
>>
>>>On Sun, 8 Feb 1998 23:27:44 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002776
>>> In alt.callahans Post # 00000989 The Lone One said:
>>>
>>>  A sound emerges from Raver, who has been largely silent up until
>>>now. It sounds suspiciously like a laugh ruthlessly strangled to
>>>death, and she sends to Xzerrion, *That boy would never make it as
>>>an assassin, no?*
>>>  Switching to a CAoL-wide wavelength, she continues, *Perhaps
>>>those of us with a talent for covert work could split off and go
>>>around the back while Nemo and Armagedon and the others keep the
>>>Greys busy? I suggest that this be reserved for those of us
>>>extremely hard to kill, as the Greys will undoubtedly do their best
>>>to stop us permanently.*

Rhiannon considers this, "I'm extremely hard to kill, but I've already
died once or twice already, so I know I'm not immortal. Of Course,
there were certain improvements made last time out of neccesity.." She
rolls up her left sleeve, and the 'skin' on her arm fades from pink to
a steely grey. Half of her face also fades into a grey color, on a
line running from the middle of her chin to the top of her ear, just
missing her nose. "Uncle would never forgive me if I died when he
wasn't here to bring me back." Rhiannon pauses a moment, then
continues in a lower tone, "And if you've ever heard of a
reprehensible race called the Koulore in the three galaxies, forget
about them." She looks at Armegeddon, "Genocide isn't pretty."
===========================

Date: Wed, 11 Feb 1998 00:05:59 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 23:30:44 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002812
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001025 The Lone One said:

On Tue, 10 Feb 1998, Morgan wrote:
>    "I am...unusual...but human all the same, and with you or on my
> own, I intend to bloody the Greys' collective nose. (Assuming they
> have one.) My lady is human as well. As for the others..." Roland
> shrugs. "They have fought for people in need regardless of species
> in the past. We're here to help."

     Resettling their cloaked wings over their shoulders, Raver looked
the Colonel over before nodding. Somehow, she managed to seem imposing
despite the flannel shirt and jeans they wore. "I am Raver, and
my...host...is named Mandy. She is human, while I am not. Despite
that, we are both here to give aid, as Morgan just said."

     -Host?- A burst of wry amusement colored the thought, and Raver
mentally rolled her eyes.
     -It was the easiest way to explain our situation.-
     -Mmm. True. It'd take you several hours to explain the entire
thing, otherwise. Anyway. Who's in charge of the covert op?-
     A mental shrug. -I have no idea...probably Roland, since he is
the leader of the CAoL, after all.-
===========================

Date: Wed, 11 Feb 1998 03:05:34 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 04:53:28 -0600 In Message # 00002813
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001026 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 19:48:21 In Message # 00002808
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001021 Morgan said:
>
>>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 16:12:00 -0600 In Message # 00002794
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00001007 Michael Jon Knight said:
>>
>>Knytt quickly takes Melissa's hand, stopping her from completeing
>>the gesture she had been forming.
>
>   (OOC: Why? <g>)

<OOC: Parental Reflex. <G>>

>>/Before we get too involved, let's ask the inhabitants what they
>>would rather do. Though,/ Knytt adds, looking at the twins, /The
>>likely answer will be that they want their home back. But we should
>>present them with all the options./
>
>   *Well, that's all well and good, but IMO human is human. I'm
>human. This makes it my fight too.* Roland looks around...
>
><*Ours,*> Morgan corrects.

/As far as I am concerned, genetics notwithstanding, I am human, too.
I just figure our hosts might want to know what we intend to do upon
their behalf and in their name. Some people take offense at a person
fighting in their name. Not -me-, but hey,/ here his mental voice
takes on a slight lisp as he sends an image of Phil Hartman, during
his Saturday Night Live days, dressed in a chef's hat and taking great
pains to neatly wrap and seal a piece of trash, the words "Anal
Retentive Chef" overlaying the image, /'Ours is not the only way...'/

>   *Well, _my_ perceptions have hit an all-time low,* Roland comments
>ruefully. *That's the first time I've missed an entire town
>population.*
>
><*You and all the rest of us, apparently,*> Morgan grins.

/At least it's a -small- towm population. If we had missed, say, all
of New York City's population, I would be worried./

>   He turns to Colonel Roberts. "Sir, I am genetically human. You can
>test me if you like." He holds out his hands to make the point-and
>realizes that he's still invisible. He releases the visible band of
>the EM spectrum and fades back into sight.
>
>Morgan walks over to Roland quietly, taking his hand.

Knytt stands, taking the pen-based computer under one arm, and steps
over to the freelance immortals.

>   "I am...unusual...but human all the same, and with you or on my
>own, I intend to bloody the Greys' collective nose. (Assuming they
>have one.) My lady is human as well. As for the others..." Roland
>shrugs. "They have fought for people in need regardless of species in
>the past. We're here to help."

Knytt adds, "How may we be of service?" as a Minbari headbone grows
out of the back of his skull. He stops, reaches up to feel it, a look
of surprise on his face, then it melts back beneath his hair. "Uh,
sorry, stray thought."
===========================

Date: Wed, 11 Feb 1998 04:36:03 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE: Enter Legion

On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 07:08:27 -0500 In Message # 00002814
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001027 Caprice said:

>On Tue, 10 Feb 1998 07:04:58 -0500 In Message # 00002788
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001001 Caprice said:
*snip*
>Legion appeared some distance away, and made her way through the
>ruined school as if scouting herself. When she reached the pit the
>kid was in she cocked her head, listening. "Hey... Is someone down
>there?"

Legion also reappears on the CAoL link... though she doesn't say
anything really... Just logs on, and acknowledges the presence of
those on it. She is clearly in 'Legion' mode, with the echoing group
of minds that those who know her recognize.

The kid nervously calls up, "Who are you?" Legion takes a coil of rope
out of her backpack, and ties it around a beam, checking to see that
it will take the strain. "Name's Caprice, kid... If I lower you a
rope, think you can climb up?"

The kid calls up, "YES! the support I had mine tied to broke."

Legion lowered the rope down, watching as the kid climbed up. There
was something odd about the way he was moving, and it was confirmed
when he scrambled up to the top, and struggled to stand while not
putting any weight on his right leg. "Easy..." Legion warned, helping
him find his balance against a section of wall. She turned to collect
her rope, not seeming to worry about the fact her back was to the kid.
"What's your name, kid?"

"Johnathon..."

Legion stowed her rope in her backpack, which disturbed Mischief. The
kitten popped it's head out to make some fussy mewing noises, before
climbing back in. "And that's Mischief," Legion explained. "Now... let
me have a look at that ankle of yours."

Legion removed her backpack, causing a whole new round of complaints
from Mischief. As she examined and wrapped Johnathon's ankle, he
begain questioning her... She kept her explainations simple, but
believable. She was a doctor, as well as a fighter against the greys.
She also taught people whatever she could. She had heard rumors there
were people living in this area, so she had wandered up this way to
see what she could do. By the time the conversation was over -he- had
asked -her- to help him get home safely, as it was normally a walk of
two or three days on a good pair of feet.

She agreed, of course, and the two headed towards the mountains and
the resistance base there.
===========================

Date: Wed, 11 Feb 1998 21:35:59 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Thu, 12 Feb 1998 00:06:45 EST In Message # 00002817
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001030 Dane0R0A said:

<< Shadow wrote:
 Rhiannon considers this, "I'm extremely hard to kill, but I've
already died once or twice already, so I know I'm not immortal. Of
Course, there were certain improvements made last time out of
neccesity.." She rolls up her left sleeve, and the 'skin' on her arm
fades from pink to a steely grey. Half of her face also fades into a
grey color, on a line running from the middle of her chin to the top
of her ear, just missing her nose. "Uncle would never forgive me if I
died when he wasn't here to bring me back." Rhiannon pauses a moment,
then continues in a lower tone, "And if you've ever heard of a
reprehensible race called the Koulore in the three galaxies, forget
about them." She looks at Armegeddon, "Genocide isn't pretty."
  >>
Armagedon replies "I wouln't know. It is my function. I am not
programmed for esthetics, just for killing. Whether it be an
individual, a group or a species is irrelavant to me. It is my
function."
===========================

Date: Thu, 12 Feb 1998 04:05:45 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 23:20:14 PST In Message # 00002818
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001031 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
> Armagedon replies "I wouln't know. It is my function. I am not
> programmed for esthetics, just for killing. Whether it be an
> individual, a group or a species is irrelavant to me. It is my
> function."

Nemo wryly comments to no one in particular.

"An excellent example of why I have so much independence."
===========================

Date: Thu, 12 Feb 1998 04:05:54 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 23:24:12 PST In Message # 00002819
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001032 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
>>> "These shields should be able to hold the Greys for a long time.
>>> They would hold against even Hydra for a few hours, even against
>>
>>  OOC These wouldn't be Dune type sheilds would they?
>
> OOC: No. More like a combination of E.E. Doc. Smith's lensman, and
> Skylark series, and Startrek. Extended into 4 space and Hyperspace.
> The energy weapons also span those three types (and yes that does
> include the GP Primaries). All of this uses total conversion power
> sources buried DEEP in the planet.

<OOC: just keep in mind that if the Grey have interdimensional access,
they can throw some *really* nasty stuff at us. *Starting with
"Primary sunbeams" and working *up*.>

<Back *in* character>

Nemo comments:

"The grey's confirmed that the power sources for their planet-forming
equipment are extradimensional. I think one of our primary goals
should be to detect these taps. We may be able to close the
connections. Failing that, if the dimension in question is
uninhabited, I can have my greater self place it at the top of the
list of such dimensions to be destroyed to generate power. That will
deprive them of power rather handily."

Nemo chuckles.

"In fact, the harder they fight us, the faster they'd run out of
power. And it won't be a violation of the 'rules' we are operating
under, as it won't be happening *here*."

<OOC: Why do I have a picture of Arioch laughing and MolloM looking
outfoxed?>
===========================

Date: Thu, 12 Feb 1998 04:06:03 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 23:07:54 PST In Message # 00002820
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001033 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
> Morgan walks over to Roland quietly, taking his hand.
>
>    "I am...unusual...but human all the same, and with you or on my
> own, I intend to bloody the Greys' collective nose. (Assuming they
> have one.) My lady is human as well. As for the others..." Roland
> shrugs. "They have fought for people in need regardless of species
> in the past. We're here to help."

Nemo's clothing shifts. It's now an insignia-less field uniform.

"This form is human. But it has beeen a *very* long time since I was
human as you understand the term. If your culture survives, and takes
one of the more common paths, your people will be like unto mine in
the future."

"This body is quite mortal. But 'I' am not limited to this body. It is
one of many I use to explore the universes."

"In any case, this is of little relevance. What I relevant, is that I
can aid you in fighting the greys, or in establishing your people safe
elsewhere."
===========================

Date: Thu, 12 Feb 1998 22:20:19 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Fri, 13 Feb 1998 00:04:50 -0600 In Message # 00002822
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001035 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Thu, 12 Feb 1998 00:06:45 EST In Message # 00002817
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001030 Dane0R0A said:
>
>Armagedon replies "I wouln't know. It is my function. I am not
>programmed for esthetics, just for killing. Whether it be an
>individual, a group or a species is irrelavant to me. It is my
>function."

Knytt sends a phrase, with full vorlon-translator sound effects,
through the link.

/The arrow does not choose the target./

He adds, /You and the Vorlons would have gotten on well together. As
long as -they- pulled the strings. I assume Hydra can stop your
program and/or the missles if it sees fit?/
===========================

Date: Thu, 12 Feb 1998 22:20:28 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Fri, 13 Feb 1998 00:04:54 -0600 In Message # 00002823
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001036 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 23:07:54 PST In Message # 00002820
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001033
> Nemo said:
>
>"In any case, this is of little relevance. What I relevant, is that I
> can aid you in fighting the greys, or in establishing your people
> safe elsewhere."

The twins send, /Thank you. Making that offer was important to us./
===========================

Date: Fri, 13 Feb 1998 23:31:48 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Fri, 13 Feb 1998 22:55:13 PST In Message # 00002824
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001037 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
> The twins send, /Thank you. Making that offer was important to us./

/I could do no less. It *is* their world. If they choose to leave, it
is their right./

/Have you given any thought to the *rest* of the 'higher' forms on the
planet? They too have a stake in this. The primates, the dolphins and
whales, the giant squid, and the other forms not even suspected by the
humans will *all* be wiped out if the Greys have their way./

With great sadness, Nemo continues.

/I *cannot* provide refuge for many of them. Not in the time
available. Their only hope is for the Greys to be defeated *soon*./
===========================

Date: Sat, 14 Feb 1998 04:01:39 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 06:56:29 EST In Message # 00002825
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001038 Dane0R0A said:

<< Knytt wrote:
 He adds, /You and the Vorlons would have gotten on well together. As
long as -they- pulled the strings. I assume Hydra can stop your
program and/or the missles if it sees fit?/
  >>
"Yes. But if the Greys go past their own deadline without conceeding,
the chances of Hydra changing his mind is less that the chances of The
Stardragon growing up. Hydra does not bluff, and what he promises he
will do, he does." Hydra answers.
===========================

Date: Sat, 14 Feb 1998 10:01:51 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 11:45:57 -0600 In Message # 00002826
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001039 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 06:56:29 EST In Message # 00002825
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001038 Dane0R0A said:
>
>"Yes. But if the Greys go past their own deadline without conceeding,
>the chances of Hydra changing his mind is less that the chances of
>The Stardragon growing up. Hydra does not bluff, and what he promises
>he will do, he does." Hydra answers.

Knytt sighs, /Well, at least there is the option./
===========================

Date: Sat, 14 Feb 1998 10:03:20 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 11:46:08 -0600 In Message # 00002827
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001040 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Fri, 13 Feb 1998 22:55:13 PST In Message # 00002824
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001037 Nemo said:
<snip>
>/Have you given any thought to the *rest* of the 'higher' forms on
> the planet? They too have a stake in this. The primates, the
> dolphins and whales, the giant squid, and the other forms not even
> suspected by the humans will *all* be wiped out if the Greys have
> their way./
>
>With great sadness, Nemo continues.
>
>/I *cannot* provide refuge for many of them. Not in the time
> available. Their only hope is for the Greys to be defeated *soon*./

The twins frown, /So much for the peaceful option./

Knytt replies, /Don't get depressed on us just yet, girls. We are
going to make every effort to give and take as few casualties as
possible. I think we all would rather they leave. Even Hydra. So,
we'll work to convince them this planet will be too costly to hold
onto./

Knytt looks to Nemo, /What sort of King Arthur scam were you cooking
up? Might be a good idea to get the generalities out of the way before
giving out our names. Like, who is going to be Arthur?/
===========================

Date: Sat, 14 Feb 1998 14:01:46 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 20:47:37 -0800 In Message # 00002828
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001041 Gareth L Owen said:

> On Wed, 11 Feb 1998 23:07:54 PST In Message # 00002820
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001033 Nemo said:
>
>> <*You and all the rest of us, apparently,*> Morgan grins.
>>
>> He turns to Colonel Roberts. "Sir, I am genetically human. You can
>> test me if you like." He holds out his hands to make the point-and
>> realizes that he's still invisible. He releases the visible band of
>> the EM spectrum and fades back into sight.

Col Roberts looks deeply unimpressed.

> Nemo's clothing shifts. It's now an insignia-less field uniform.
>
> "This form is human. But it has beeen a *very* long time since I was
> human as you understand the term. If your culture survives, and
> takes one of the more common paths, your people will be like unto
> mine in the future."
>
> "This body is quite mortal. But 'I' am not limited to this body. It
> is one of many I use to explore the universes."
>
> "In any case, this is of little relevance. What I relevant, is that
> I can aid you in fighting the greys, or in establishing your people
> safe elsewhere."

"Elsewhere? Where elsewhere?" asks a third man, also a Major, this one
with a green beret and SA80.

"Doesn't matter. I say we fight." Says beige beret "Remember what the
man in black said when he found us. We stop fighting those bastards
and we stop being human. He showed us how to fight them."

"Yes, but they're so far ahead of us in technology, we can't win!"

"He made a promise! If we don't give up we'll win, he said, and I for
one int..."

"Gentlemen." Col Roberts holds up his hand, silencing the men. "I
think we should let these people explain themselves, don't you?"

He turns to address the CAoLers present. "Gentlemen, and ah Ladies, I
am Lieutenant Colonel James Roberts of the Cheshires, my companions
are Major Sharpe, Royal Corps of Signals and Major Johnson, Blues and
Royals. What is it that you have in mind and do you really expect ot
be able to take on the Greys?"
===========================

Date: Sat, 14 Feb 1998 15:01:43 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 17:56:57 EST In Message # 00002829
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001042 Dane0R0A said:

In a message dated 98-02-14 17:02:53 EST, you write:
<< The Stranger Wrote:
 He turns to address the CAoLers present. "Gentlemen, and ah Ladies, I
am Lieutenant Colonel James Roberts of the Cheshires, my companions
are Major Sharpe, Royal Corps of Signals and Major Johnson, Blues and
Royals. What is it that you have in mind and do you really expect ot
be able to take on the Greys?"
  >>
"They may not fall like wheat before the scyth, but they will fall.
And when they do, this universe shall see its last of them." Armagedon
answers (from outside).
===========================

Date: Sat, 14 Feb 1998 19:32:06 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 17:22:26 PST In Message # 00002830
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001043 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
> He turns to address the CAoLers present. "Gentlemen, and ah Ladies,
> I am Lieutenant Colonel James Roberts of the Cheshires, my
> companions are Major Sharpe, Royal Corps of Signals and Major
> Johnson, Blues and Royals. What is it that you have in mind and do
> you really expect ot be able to take on the Greys?"

"I am called Nemo. We are known as the Callahanian Army of Light. We
are from various alternate universes, and the closest analogy to us
you would be familiar with would be various 'superhero' groups from
comic books."

"The 'elsewhere' I spoke of is Venus. Until I can finish terraforming
it, I can convert some asteroids into habitats. I'd rather not take
that route as there are other beings on this planet who deserve to
survive but that I can't provide adequate interim habitats for. The
creatures you know as 'qiant squid', for example."

"I would much rather force the Greys into habitats and give *them*
Venus. Assuming that they don't force us to eliminate them."

"I am quite capable of destroying this entire solar system if I
wished. So could several others of our group. Others are not
appreciably more powerful than the more skilled members of the SAS.
However brute force is not a practical solution to this problem. At
least not if you wish to have a livable planet when we are finished."

"At the moment, our plans are tenative, awaiting further data. One of
the more likely courses is attempting to cut off the power for the
machines the Greys are using to change your world. From comments they
made during our failed attempt to negotiate with them, it would appear
that it is extradimensional, and thus we are not as limited in
attacking that as we would be in attacking them directly."

Nemo thinks for a moment, and a pile of packs appears next to him.

"As gesture of good faith, here are some 'filter' masks such as we
have been using, and some equipment that can be used to perform the
same function for buildings, underground complexes, and anything else
that can be sealed and doesn't have airflow requirements much above
those of a medium sized office building. They'll also cut the
'signature' of your intake and outlet vents to almost nothing. I can
provide more later."

"We may be able to supply weapons later, but that requires more
knowledge of the Greys' weaknesses. But I'm sure that you must be
having trouble purifying air and water for both your men and for any
non-combatants you are protecting. These will at least help with*that*
problem. I imagine food is also a problem, but that involves more than
merely purifying things that already exist."

<OOC: the masks are the same sort that I supplied to the party
earlier. The other gear consists of "black boxes" that set up a field
with the same properties across an air "duct" or the like. The lowered
signature is because the temp and humidity of the outflow is
transfered to the inflow (molecular level quantum "teleportation").
Excess humidity can be piped off as pure water. And yes, though I
haven't told them, these *can* be set up for use as closed cycle air
systems. The units are self contained and have operating instructions
displayed on a screen in your choice of language (any common human
language).>

<If they decide to take one apart, they may well be able to figure out
the operating principles of the "filter" section, but not the
instruction "manual" or the power source. But it'll be years before
they can figure out enough to do more than "monkey copy" the filters.
Building ones for other substances gets *way* too messy. :-)>
===========================

Date: Sat, 14 Feb 1998 21:31:44 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 21:05:59 PST In Message # 00002831
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001044 Nemo said:

Nemo sends this "privately" to the CAoL members.

/An ugly suspicion has occurred to me. I have a feeling that the word
the Grey finally decided to translate as "principle" may translate as
"s'fik"./

<OOC: Since this is sent telepathically, most will get the *meaning*
of this kifish concept. The closest human analogue is the concept of
"face", but that really isn't that close. Face is more or less based
on personal "honor". S'fik is more based on personal "power", on
having other answer to you.>

<If you want a better idea than the above, you'll need to read C.J.
Cherryh's Chanur books. Especially the trilogy. By the time I finished
I could think somewhat like a Kif. Scary feeling. The Greys begin to
"feel" that way.>
===========================

Date: Sun, 15 Feb 1998 23:59:56 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Sun, 15 Feb 1998 23:34:05 In Message # 00002833
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001046 Morgan said:

>On Sat, 14 Feb 1998 06:56:29 EST In Message # 00002825
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001038 Dane0R0A said:
>
>>Armagedon replies "I wouln't know. It is my function. I am not
>>programmed for esthetics, just for killing. Whether it be an
>>individual, a group or a species is irrelavant to me. It is my
>>function."

   Roland notes this, his eyes becoming very cold. "Thank you for the
information. Hydra no doubt programmed you to recognize the CaoL, in
that case. As present field commander of this organization, I am
informing you that while your defensive screens are more than
adequate, the missiles are unnecessary at this time, and more than a
little obtrusive. I would also appreciate knowing," he adds darkly,
"whether or not you can contact Hydra."

"Aye, that is a point," Morgan adds. "Ye all know I'm not exactly slow
to kill an enemy if necessary, but I dinna like the idea of a machine
that kills indiscriminately. That 'only pure humans' thing was bad
enough, the Ikarra come to mind, but taking out an entire race...."

> Knytt sends a phrase, with full vorlon-translator sound effects,
> through the link.
>
> /The arrow does not choose the target./
>
> He adds, /You and the Vorlons would have gotten on well together. As
> long as -they- pulled the strings. I assume Hydra can stop your
> program and/or the missles if it sees fit?/
>  >>
>"Yes. But if the Greys go past their own deadline without conceeding,
>the chances of Hydra changing his mind is less that the chances of
>The Stardragon growing up. Hydra does not bluff, and what he promises
>he will do, he does." Hydra answers.

   Roland takes a long, deep sigh. /I hate this job sometimes. I
REALLY hate this job sometimes./ Morgan hugs him in response, knowing
his thoughts as well as he does, and Roland holds her for a moment.

^You do realize that, if you ask this and they agree, the position
will no longer be unofficial? Is that what you truly want?^ Morgan
asks.

   ^Hell no,^ Roland replies. ^But we're talking about the fate of an
entire species, as well as the soul of the CAoL. Either we fight for a
cause or we're just cosmic meddlers.^ Sil blinks at the lovers,
knowing that something is on Roland's mind...

^Do what you have to do, my love,^ Morgan says, and the embrace
becomes solely spiritual once more. Opening to the full link and
glancing at the resistance leaders, she adds, <*Let's try to keep this
amongst ourselves.*>

   Roland steps aside to face the entire collected CAoL. *Folx, for
some time I have been leading our little travelling disaster area. I
don't think of myself as a particularly skilled tactician, or much of
an inspiration. But my moral compass is passable, and I draw the line
at genocide. I don't like killing, but sometimes I understand the
need. However, the murder of an entire species is unacceptable.*
   The immortal straightens. *I am asking for the position of leader
in truth, not just as the guy who people happen to follow. I admit
freely that my first act as leader will be to command Hydra to
reprogram Armagedon.* Roland smiles thinly. *The Greys don't have to
know this, of course...regardless.* The smile vanishes.
   *I don't know if this is a vote of confidence or an election. I
don't care. It's time for us all to decide what we want this 'Army' to
be about. I know what I want us to stand for.* Roland smiles again at
what seems to be a private joke. *It's time to decide who we are and
what we want.*
   (OOC: Quite frankly, I'm almost as serious about this as my
character is. Fun is fun, but even in gaming I have to draw the line
somewhere. This is not aimed at anyone in particular; too many people
seem willing to allow our group to do what our 'enemies' are willing
to do. Now I understand that folx may be busy with RL, and that
'Armagedon' is just a program following its function, but this is an
ugly subject, plain and simple, and I want nothing to do with genocide
even in an RPG.
   I should note, however, that I do _not_ want the leadership job,
and if someone else wants it-and is willing to deal with this-they are
more than welcome to it.)
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 00:46:51 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 00:43:26 +0800 In Message # 00002834
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001047 Nemisis said:

> On Sun, 15 Feb 1998 23:34:05 In Message # 00002833
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001046 Morgan said:
>
>    Roland notes this, his eyes becoming very cold. "Thank you for
> the information. Hydra no doubt programmed you to recognize the
> CAoL, in that case. As present field commander of this organization,
> I am informing you that while your defensive screens are more than
> adequate, the missiles are unnecessary at this time, and more than a
> little obtrusive. I would also appreciate knowing," he adds darkly,
> "whether or not you can contact Hydra."

"The concepts of 'Holy Ground' and 'Sanctuary' are at odds with an
'Armed Compound'."

\Roland, If it becomes necessary, I am Sure, that I can contact Hydra\

> "Aye, that is a point," Morgan adds. "Ye all know I'm not exactly
> slow to kill an enemy if necessary, but I dinna like the idea of a
> machine that kills indiscriminately. That 'only pure humans' thing
> was bad enough, the Ikarra come to mind, but taking out an entire
> race...."

\As technicaly A Non-Human, You can imagine how much it bothered
Me...\

>    Roland takes a long, deep sigh. /I hate this job sometimes. I
> REALLY hate this job sometimes./ Morgan hugs him in response,
> knowing his thoughts as well as he does, and Roland holds her for a
> moment.
<snip>
>    Roland steps aside to face the entire collected CAoL. *Folx, for
> some time I have been leading our little travelling disaster area. I
> don't think of myself as a particularly skilled tactician, or much
> of an inspiration. But my moral compass is passable, and I draw the
> line at genocide. I don't like killing, but sometimes I understand
> the need. However, the murder of an entire species is unacceptable.*

\I concur, Very few species ever learned anything from Extinction.
  So that must be considered only as a last resort<sp> if then.\

>    *I don't know if this is a vote of confidence or an election. I
> don't care. It's time for us all to decide what we want this 'Army'
> to be about. I know what I want us to stand for.* Roland smiles
> again at what seems to be a private joke. *It's time to decide who
> we are and what we want.*

\Vote of Confidence, I make no pretence of Bias, Save to give the
greatest chance for continued Grouth to The Greatest Number of
Individuals. I will always do, what to my mind, aids that goal the
most.\

>    I should note, however, that I do _not_ want the leadership job,
> and if someone else wants it-and is willing to deal with this-they
> are more than welcome to it.)

<OOC: I think, Roland is about to be cast as 'Arthur'
  Morgan as a redeemed 'Gwenevier'
   Knytt as 'Merlin'
   The Twins as his assitance/students
 Fuzzy possibly as a Redeemed 'Modred'
  Nemisis as a Redeemed 'Morgana LeFey<sp>'
These Last two explain the 'techno' Magic and weirder abilities
 of the pair...
  Modred would have inherited a talant for Magic from his mother...

So Roland will probably have to be the acting leader for this segment
at least.>
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 02:02:14 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 01:41:33 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002835
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001048 The Lone One said:

On Sun, 15 Feb 1998, Morgan wrote:
>    Roland steps aside to face the entire collected CAoL. *Folx, for
> some time I have been leading our little travelling disaster area. I
> don't think of myself as a particularly skilled tactician, or much
> of an inspiration. But my moral compass is passable, and I draw the
> line at genocide. I don't like killing, but sometimes I understand
> the need. However, the murder of an entire species is unacceptable.*

     Raver stood quietly, her previous animation gone. Their eyes were
distant, and anyone looking at them would have recieved the impression
that the more approachable attitude was gone, to be replaced by
something -- dark, and infinitely old. It was painfully obvious that
Roland and Morgan's words had struck a chord. After a long moment, she
shook their head, and the impression was gone. *Something like
that...yes.*

>    *I don't know if this is a vote of confidence or an election. I
> don't care. It's time for us all to decide what we want this 'Army'
> to be about. I know what I want us to stand for.* Roland smiles
> again at what seems to be a private joke. *It's time to decide who
> we are and what we want.*

     One corner of Raver's mouth quirked in a small smile. *For what
it is worth, you get both our votes. We are hardly an ideal choice to
be leader, as we lack the proper social finesse.*
     *In other words, guys, we don't wanna ask y'all to vote a basket
case as leader.* Mandy's distinctive Texas twang echoed through the
link, and Raver's face went utterly slack with shock.
     -Mandy?!-
     -Sorry. Couldn't resist.-
     -You...are back?-
     Mandy smiled wryly inside their head, sending the impression of a
mental shrug. -Decided to postpone my mental breakdown for now.-
     -Mandy.-
     -Raver.- Mandy mimicked the demon's tone, knowing that all the
nascent protective instincts that'd been dragged to the surface,
kicking and screaming, were now fully engaged. -I can't ask these guys
to put their crap on hold for me. You. Need. Me. Especially after what
Roland and Morgan said -- the last thing we need is you losing it
completely and going on a one-demon reign of terror.-
     Smoky images that dripped bright copper flowed through their
minds before Raver shut them down. -Very well. I will try to avoid
using power as much as possible.-
     -It isn't easy for you, dealing with all this, is it?- The
understanding in the sudden question had Raver clenching their teeth,
but she made no response -- there wasn't really one possible, anyway.
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 03:32:27 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 06:22:37 -0500 In Message # 00002836
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001049 Caprice said:

>On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 00:43:26 +0800 In Message # 00002834
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001047 Nemisis said:
>
>> On Sun, 15 Feb 1998 23:34:05 In Message # 00002833
>>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001046 Morgan said:
>
>> "Aye, that is a point," Morgan adds. "Ye all know I'm not exactly
>> slow to kill an enemy if necessary, but I dinna like the idea of a
>> machine that kills indiscriminately. That 'only pure humans' thing
>> was bad enough, the Ikarra come to mind, but taking out an entire
>> race...."
>
>\As technicaly A Non-Human, You can imagine how much it bothered
> Me...\

Legion's voice(s) come clearly through the link <Why do you think I/we
did not appear in England? I/we would rather not die by so-called
friendly fire.>

>\Vote of Confidence, I make no pretence of Bias,
> Save to give the greatest chance for continued Grouth to
> The Greatest Number of Individuals.
> I will always do, what to my mind, aids that goal the most.\

Legion seems to debate it among herselves before answering over the
link <I/we will follow you, Roland... with the understanding that I/we
must follow our own concious first.>
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 10:32:36 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 13:25:42 -0600 In Message # 00002837
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001050 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Sun, 15 Feb 1998 23:34:05 In Message # 00002833
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001046 Morgan said:
<snip>
>   Roland steps aside to face the entire collected CAoL. *Folx, for
>some time I have been leading our little travelling disaster area. I
>don't think of myself as a particularly skilled tactician, or much of
>an inspiration. But my moral compass is passable, and I draw the line
>at genocide. I don't like killing, but sometimes I understand the
>need. However, the murder of an entire species is unacceptable.*

Knytt and the Twins nod in agreement, in fact in unison.

>   *I don't know if this is a vote of confidence or an election. I
>don't care. It's time for us all to decide what we want this 'Army'
>to be about. I know what I want us to stand for.* Roland smiles again
>at what seems to be a private joke. *It's time to decide who we are
>and what we want.*

/And why we are here. And what we have to live for.../ Knytt smiles.
/Couldn't resist. I *certainly* agree that genocide is the wrong way
to go. Kicking a few robot butts is one thing. After all, those are
like that old chip commercial, "Crunch all you want, we'll make more."
I guess I had assumed we would ask Hydra to stop Armageddon anyway.
Question is, how do we stop him if he says no?/

Knytt scratches his head in thought. /I'm not looking for a soldier's
leader. I'm not sure what that means regarding my vote. If you intend
to coordinate our efforts to make what we agree upon happen, I would
say you have been doing that already. If you intend to lead us like
this Earth's armies, I think I have been led in that manner long
enough. I do not wish that sort of leadership now.

/If the possibility of genocide is what is forcing the issue, assuming
we are mostly agreed, I will personally ask Hydra to remove that
portion of the program. I would even recommend he send an avatar that
he actually controlled, rather than an autonomous program.

/This is certainly not to insult your leadership abilities. Your
'moral compass' is *more* than adequate to the task, and you *are* an
inspiration, as you may recall on Quaren. This is simply my personal
stance on the subject of leaders. I prefer someone to point the way,
not lead me by the hand. I also freely admit, my friend, that I am
more touchy on this subject than most. I have developed an actual
distaste for authority figures./

Knytt smirks, /Funny that I always seem to try to play the role of
one./

The twins nod. /A small portion of why we turned down Oracle's offer
to join the Dragon Guard. We can't condone genocide and we refuse to
take orders. Unless we agree with them./

/Yeah,/ Knytt sends, /I suppose, if you can accept your orders being
thought of as requests up for debate, I could agree. But, I think I
would prefer the mantel of leader go unclaimed. I consider your
judgement sound enough that most any suggestion is probably the Good
and Right thing to do. And you merely have to voice your concerns for
them to be heard, and more often than not agreed with.

/And, considering just how long we have been acquainted, I think I can
say it would be in your worst interest to accept a leadership role. It
would mean no more one-on-one's with fellow immortals. No more
charging off to rescue damsels in distress. No more impulsive
devil-may-care attitudes. Admittedly, these are not things one often
looks forward to, but with their loss, as I think in becoming leader
they will have to be lost, the best of Roland would be lost./

Knytt looks down and the stack of soapboxes he had just noticed under
him vanish to leave his feet once again planted on the ground.

/Sorry,/ he sends a bit sheepishly.

>   (OOC: Quite frankly, I'm almost as serious about this as my
>character is. Fun is fun, but even in gaming I have to draw the line
>somewhere. This is not aimed at anyone in particular; too many people
>seem willing to allow our group to do what our 'enemies' are willing
>to do. Now I understand that folx may be busy with RL, and that
>'Armagedon' is just a program following its function, but this is an
>ugly subject, plain and simple, and I want nothing to do with
>genocide even in an RPG.

<OOC: Well, I think the majority of us (I don't say all becaise I
can't be 100% certain, though I am 99.99999999% certain all.) aren't
fans of it either, but yes, if you are unsure of that, mentioning it
certainly helps. I hadn't known it was an issue in debate. I figured
we all were against it and would push Hydra to halt Armageddon, and
<was/am> assuming Dane <would be/is> just as willing to agree as any
of us.>

>   I should note, however, that I do _not_ want the leadership job,
>and if someone else wants it-and is willing to deal with this-they
>are more than welcome to it.)

<OOC: Ihere are enough changes already orbiting around my portion of
the story. :) Besides, I have no leadership skills that would fit my
image of this group. Ask my video crews, it is my way or the highway.
;) I am also of the opinion that part of what makes this group
interesting is the lack of an official leader. *looks down to find
himself sitting on a soapbox* Sorry. :)>
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 16:02:14 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 18:55:20 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002838
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001051 Xzerrion said:

On Sat, 14 Feb 1998, Gareth L Owen wrote:
> He turns to address the CAoLers present. "Gentlemen, and ah Ladies,
> I am Lieutenant Colonel James Roberts of the Cheshires, my
> companions are Major Sharpe, Royal Corp of Signals and Major
> Johnson, Blues and Royals. What is it that you have in mind and do
> you really expect ot be able to take on the Greys?"

Tezrantha decides to field the question. "We intend to confront the
Greys and drive them from the world, whether it takes a year or fifty
generations. The main problem is their technology advantage, as you
say. However, the forces of Nature have their own opinions on that."

Dantris steps forward, and his star glows momentarily, projecting an
image of a translucent horn which fades quickly enough that Col.
Roberts might think he imagined it except for the obvious intelligence
in the horse's eyes.

Xzerrion joins her. "We can take on the Greys. I've fought and won
against far worse odds than we face here." He calls a palm-sized flame
into his hand. "We have our own tricks, and I'll be working on
protections for your people beyond the Grey's experience, and thus,
their ability to counteract. Roland, Nemo, Fuzzy, and Morgan may be
able to help with this, as they have different background in this."
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 16:32:29 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 19:11:20 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002839
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001052 Xzerrion said:

On Sun, 15 Feb 1998, Morgan wrote:
> "Aye, that is a point," Morgan adds. "Ye all know I'm not exactly
> slow to kill an enemy if necessary, but I dinna like the idea of a
> machine that kills indiscriminately. That 'only pure humans' thing
> was bad enough, the Ikarra come to mind, but taking out an entire
> race...."

Tezrantha agrees. "I thought the idea of racial purity was a concept
of some of the more twisted members of my people. If the defensive
screens could differentiate by intent, that would be a more
appropriate method of tagetting. After all, consider that these Greys
just *might* have human agents."

>    Roland steps aside to face the entire collected CAoL. *Folx, for
> some time I have been leading our little travelling disaster area. I
> don't think of myself as a particularly skilled tactician, or much
> of an inspiration. But my moral compass is passable, and I draw the
> line at genocide. I don't like killing, but sometimes I understand
> the need. However, the murder of an entire species is unacceptable.*

Xzerrion and Tezrantha nod. Dantris nuzzles quietly at Roland's
shoulder, offering support.

>    *I don't know if this is a vote of confidence or an election. I
> don't care. It's time for us all to decide what we want this 'Army'
> to be about. I know what I want us to stand for.* Roland smiles
> again at what seems to be a private joke. *It's time to decide who
> we are and what we want.*

Xzerrion meets Roland's eyes. * On my honor as one of elvenkind, I
will follow your direction as I would the Matron of my own House, were
she still alive. To this I swear my own honor and that of House
Rilynt'tar. * He smiles briefly. * As if those were not now one and
the same. *

Tezrantha sends, * So long as their is no conflict with the word of my
God, I will follow your direction. I swear this by Gwaeron Windstrom,
by Eillistraee, and by every other deity I respect. *

Dantris stares into Roland's eyes. * If this is what you want, I will
follow you as I would Tezrantha. You know my kind is such that cannot
lie.*

>    I should note, however, that I do _not_ want the leadership job,
> and if someone else wants it-and is willing to deal with this-they
> are more than welcome to it.)

<OOC : The leadership job isn't really in character for Xzerrion, and
in RL I don't have the time, even if the group would accept a new
member such as Tezrantha as a leader. Frankly, I think you or Caprice
would be the best choices here. >
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 16:38:53 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 16:35:11 +0800 In Message # 00002840
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001053 fuzzy said:

> On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 18:55:20 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002838
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001051 Xzerrion said:
>
> Tezrantha decides to field the question. "We intend to confront the
> Greys and drive them from the world, whether it takes a year or
> fifty generations. The main problem is their technology advantage,
> as you say. However, the forces of Nature have their own opinions on
> that."

Nemisis Speaks "It is worthwhile to note, The Technological Advantage
that they have, is at most temporary, Are you familiar with Clark's
Law?"

"Needed Equipment will be produced, as soon as I know what it is."

> Dantris steps forward, and his star glows momentarily, projecting an
> image of a translucent horn which fades quickly enough that Col.
> Roberts might think he imagined it except for the obvious
> intelligence in the horse's eyes.
>
> Xzerrion joins her. "We can take on the Greys. I've fought and won
> against far worse odds than we face here." He calls a palm-sized
> flame into his hand. "We have our own tricks, and I'll be working on
> protections for your people beyond the Grey's experience, and thus,
> their ability to counteract. Roland, Nemo, Fuzzy, and Morgan may be
> able to help with this, as they have different background in this."

Fuzzy speaks while mounting his HoverCyclone
"I think, I had best start by trying to find and limit the power taps
that drive their planet-forming equipment, The one who spoke to us
indicated that those would automaticaly ramp up until either our
protected zones collapse or they explode taking the planet with
them..."
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 18:02:43 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 20:51:08 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002841
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001054 Shadow <pookie> said:

> On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 13:25:42 -0600 In Message # 00002837
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001050 Michael Jon Knight said:
>
> /And, considering just how long we have been acquainted, I think I
> can say it would be in your worst interest to accept a leadership
> role. It would mean no more one-on-one's with fellow immortals. No
> more charging off to rescue damsels in distress. No more impulsive
> devil-may-care attitudes. Admittedly, these are not things one often
> looks forward to, but with their loss, as I think in becoming leader
> they will have to be lost, the best of Roland would be lost./
>
> Knytt looks down and the stack of soapboxes he had just noticed
> under him vanish to leave his feet once again planted on the ground.
>
> /Sorry,/ he sends a bit sheepishly.

Rhiannon waits as most give Roland a vote of confidence a leader, then
climbs up on Knytts soapboxes, / I didn't think I'd start all this
with my comment, but while I agree that I thought most of us would not
condone Armeggeddon's actions, neither could I hope that we would stop
him when he tries to fulfill his programming. Best to have it out now.
That aside, Roland, you _are_ our defacto leader. Always have been,
from as long as my Uncle has known you. However, in this band rugged
individualists, all that means is that we'll listen to you first
before doing whatever we damn well please. And from some of the
responses I've heard so far, that's not likely to change. You can
start an avalanche, but you can't really guide it, and I think that is
what trying to lead this group would be like. For what it's worth, you
have my vote. Your moral compass is better than mine, and much better
than my Uncle's. If you want to make the position official, go ahead,
but you're there now, in all but title; Insofar as I see the concept
of a leader for this group./

<Snip OOC disavowals of wanting the leadership job we've thrust onto
him, because in my view we do look to him more than anyone else for
that role, when that role is required.>
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 20:32:23 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 18:01:03 PST In Message # 00002843
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001056 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
>    *I don't know if this is a vote of confidence or an election. I
> don't care. It's time for us all to decide what we want this 'Army'
> to be about. I know what I want us to stand for.* Roland smiles
> again at what seems to be a private joke. *It's time to decide who
> we are and what we want.*

"Note that even my 'doomsday' option will not wipe out the Greys as a
species. But if they succeed in committing ecocide against this
planet, they will *not* be allowed to enjoy the 'fruits' of their
labor."

"I do not wish to be leader. And, as I suspect is true for the
majority of us, I will act as my conscience dictates regardless of any
orders. I will also accept the consequences of such actions if we do
appoint a leader."

"I do not envy the position of whoever becomes our leader. The phrase
that leaps to mind is 'herding cats'. Even so, I agree that a leader
would be useful."

"In keeping with this, I would like to know if anyone wishes to be our
leader."

Nemo pauses.

<If no one *wants* the job>

"Ah. We are indeed intelligent beings. We shall have to appoint an
individual suited to the task."

<If someone *does* indicate that they *want* the job>

"Thank you. No offense, but this is not a job suited for a being who
*wants* it. You've reduced our candidate list."

<OOC: No, Roland, this *doesn't* let you off the hook. You obviously
*don't* want the job. You are just (grudgingly) willing to accept it
if you get stuck with it. :-)>
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 22:02:40 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Tue, 17 Feb 1998 00:52:37 EST In Message # 00002845
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001058 Dane0R0A said:

<< Morgan and Roland said:
    Roland notes this, his eyes becoming very cold. "Thank you for the
information. Hydra no doubt programmed you to recognize the CAoL, in
that case. As present field commander of this organization, I am
informing you that while your defensive screens are more than
adequate, the missiles are unnecessary at this time, and more than a
little obtrusive. I would also appreciate knowing," he adds darkly,
"whether or not you can contact Hydra."
>>
"I can," Armagedon replies. "Hydra is currently in N-Space watching
and listening. What you say to me, he will hear, and if he wishes to
communicate with you, he can cause me to speak at his whim."

<<
    I should note, however, that I do _not_ want the leadership job,
and if someone else wants it-and is willing to deal with this-they are
more than welcome to it.)
  >>
Armagedon is quiet for a long time, waiting for the CAoL to make their
decisions. When the last CAoL member answers, Hydra speaks through
Armagedon, "I will abide by your decision, Armegedon is reprogrammed
accordingly. I will find other targets for the missiles."
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 22:32:58 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 22:24:10 +0800 In Message # 00002847
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001060 fuzzy said:

> On Tue, 17 Feb 1998 00:52:37 EST In Message # 00002845
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001058 Dane0R0A said:
>
> Armagedon is quiet for a long time, waiting for the CAoL to make
> their decisions. When the last CAoL member answers, Hydra speaks
> through Armagedon, "I will abide by your decision, Armegedon is
> reprogrammed accordingly. I will find other targets for the
> missiles."

\Thank You, Hydra.\
===========================

Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 23:32:25 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Tue, 17 Feb 1998 01:07:54 -0600 In Message # 00002849
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001062 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Tue, 17 Feb 1998 00:52:37 EST In Message # 00002845
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001058 Dane0R0A said:
<big snip>
>Armagedon is quiet for a long time, waiting for the CAoL to make
>their decisions. When the last CAoL member answers, Hydra speaks
>through Armagedon, "I will abide by your decision, Armegedon is
>reprogrammed accordingly. I will find other targets for the
>missiles."

/Thank you, Hydra, though are you certain they are needed at all?
Other than window dressing?/
===========================

Date: Tue, 17 Feb 1998 00:02:33 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Tue, 17 Feb 1998 02:45:12 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002850
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001063 Xzerrion said:

On Mon, 16 Feb 1998, Michael Jon Knight wrote:
> /Thank you, Hydra, though are you certain they are needed at all?
> Other than window dressing?/

Xzerrion notes, "They might make one hell of a deterrent, if nothing
else, though we don't intend to use them."
===========================

Date: Wed, 18 Feb 1998 02:01:38 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Wed, 18 Feb 1998 01:15:36 EST In Message # 00002853
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001066 Dane0R0A said:

<< Michael Jon Knight said:
 /Thank you, Hydra, though are you certain they are needed at all?
Other than window dressing?/
  >>
Armagedon replies, "Yes. There are some Grey vessels inbound around
the obit of Neptune. The missiles will be used to destroy them."
===========================

Date: Wed, 18 Feb 1998 10:33:58 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Wed, 18 Feb 1998 12:31:06 -0600 In Message # 00002854
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001067 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 18:01:03 PST In Message # 00002843
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001056 Nemo said:
>
>Nemo pauses.
>
><If no one *wants* the job>
>
>"Ah. We are indeed intelligent beings. We shall have to appoint an
> individual suited to the task."

More Vorlon Translaternoises come from Knytt's portion of the link.
/The avalanche has already started, it is too late for the pebbles to
vote./

/Roland, the burden appears to be yours. IF you are certain you still
want to take on the job of being leader?/

<If he's not, ignore the following:>

<Assuming he does...>

Knytt smirks as he holds out the computer-book he had been holding
under his arm. It shifts forms to appear as a large volume bound in
black leather with the CAoL sigil in silver on the center.

/Then put your hand on the book and say 'I do.'/

<Again, assuming he does...>

/Good, let's kick some Grey butt./
===========================

Date: Wed, 18 Feb 1998 15:41:04 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Wed, 18 Feb 1998 15:21:00 In Message # 00002855
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001068 Morgan said:

>On Wed, 18 Feb 1998 12:31:06 -0600 In Message # 00002854
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001067 Michael Jon Knight said:
>
>Knytt smirks as he holds out the computer-book he had been holding
>under his arm. It shifts forms to appear as a large volume bound in
>black leather with the CAoL sigil in silver on the center.
>
>/Then put your hand on the book and say 'I do.'/
>
><Again, assuming he does...>
>
>/Good, let's kick some Grey butt./

<OOC: ROFLMAO!!! IC....>

Morgan almost succeeds in suppressing a giggle. In her best impression
of a Narn, but with a smile playing on her lips, she says, "Fine.
Done. Let's eat."

She then looks at the resistance leaders, who must be wondering why we
keep looking at each other in silence. With a slight blush, she adds,
"Apologies, gentlemen. It... is a private joke. My mate and I can
sometimes read each others' thoughts, and, um," she shrugs, "it's a
long story."

*'Sometimes'?* Roland sends.

<*I know, but this is hardly the time to be playing "Freaking the
Mundanes." We've probably weirded them out enough already. So, how
does it feel to be Sheridan?*>

   *Don't _do_ that!* He sends a mental smile. *Pain in the butt.*

Morgan sends a smile through the link in return, and her mental accent
changes to Minbari. <*Grouch.*>

<OOC from Morgan: Roland plans on catching up when he gets home from
work. He's quite flattered, BTW, although I'll probably pay for
telling you folx that ;-).>

<Another OOC: Seosaidh, being my Clan Chief in the SCA and a dear
friend to both of us, performed our wedding Saturday. Us being the B5
fans we are, and as crazy as things got at the war that day, we
actually discussed the possibility that the ceremony would go:
   Seosaidh: Do you want to marry her?
   Roland: I do.
   Seosaidh: Do you want to marry him?
   Morgan: Yes.
   Seosaidh: Fine. Done. Let's eat.
Tempting as it was, we went with the ceremony we'd originally planned.
:-) >
===========================

Date: Wed, 18 Feb 1998 17:33:54 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Severed Dreams

On Thu, 19 Feb 1998 01:16:04 -0800 In Message # 00002857
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001070 Gareth L Owen said:

> On Mon, 16 Feb 1998 19:11:20 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002839
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001052 Xzerrion said:
>
> Tezrantha agrees. "I thought the idea of racial purity was a concept
> of some of the more twisted members of my people. If the defensive
> screens could differentiate by intent, that would be a more
> appropriate method of tagetting. After all, consider that these
> Greys just *might* have human agents."

"They do," responds Major Sharpe "The Traitors in the domes sometimes
emerge to infiltrate resistance units being particularly troublesome."
===========================