Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 4
                              Chapter 15

Date: Wed, 18 Feb 1998 17:34:05 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Thu, 19 Feb 1998 01:29:31 -0800 In Message # 00002858
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001071 Gareth L Owen said:

> 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?"

<OOC Errata: The Blues and Royals no longer exist <doh>, better make
that the Light Dragoons instead. Ok, ok, but I like to get these
things right.>

> 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."

"Very well," says Col. Roberts "it seems you are willing to fight
alongside us, and your abilities are obvious. A man passed this way
several months ago, wouldn't give his name, said he was a passing
stranger. We knew him as the man in black, or Mr Black. He put us in
touch with several other groups, seems that he's singlehandedly trying
to reform Earth's forces." he shrugs "I don't know about that, but he
did tell us that he thought that the Devices the greys use to pollute
the planet were the only things that could restore it. He said some
people with 'strange powers' would turn up and that we should trust
them, you, er, seem to match the descriptions he gave."
===========================

Date: Wed, 18 Feb 1998 18:32:59 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Wed, 18 Feb 1998 18:09:08 In Message # 00002859
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001072 Morgan said:

> In alt.callahans Post # 00001071 Gareth L Owen said:
>
>"Very well," says Col. Roberts "it seems you are willing to fight
>alongside us, and your abilities are obvious. A man passed this way
>several months ago, wouldn't give his name, said he was a passing
>stranger.

Morgan and Roland exchange meaningful looks. <*A passing 'stranger'?*>

>We knew him as the man in black, or Mr Black. He put us in
>touch with several other groups, seems that he's singlehandedly
>trying to reform Earth's forces." he shrugs "I don't know about that,
>but he did tell us that he thought that the Devices the greys use to
>pollute the planet were the only things that could restore it. He
>said some people with 'strange powers' would turn up and that we
>should trust them, you, er, seem to match the descriptions he gave."

   Roland nods. "I'm inclined to agree." He grabs the smile fighting
to surface and brutally strangles it; this is no time to make light of
their Earth's troubles.

"Can you describe this 'passing stranger', Colonel?" Morgan asks.

<assume the Colonel describes the Stranger we know and love :-)>

She smiles. "Yep, sounds like an old friend of ours we haven't seen
for a while. If you can remember anything else he told you, even
little things that may not have made sense at the time, it might help
us plan how to handle these Greys."
===========================

Date: Wed, 18 Feb 1998 23:33:31 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE IV: Phoenix Rising

On Wed, 18 Feb 98 23:18:55 -0800 In Message # 00002862
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001075 Roland X said:

Once upon a time, I said:
> Roland smiles again at what seems to be a private joke. *It's time
> to decide who we are and what we want.*

Then the Two said:
>    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.

..and Caprice said:
>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.>

   <OOC: Seosaidh's Rule of Combat #1: Friendly fire isn't.>

>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.>

..and Nemisis said:
>\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.\

Then Knytt said:
>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.

Then Xzerrion put my jaw on the floor with:
>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.*

Then Rhiannon said:
>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./

And Nemo said:
>"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."

Finally, Hydra 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."

   Roland can only stare. He isn't even blushing. His shock in the
faith shown in him is clearly apparent. He opens his mouth twice, to
begin speaking, then closes it-at a loss for words-before he even
remembers that the primary form of communication among the CAoL is
telepathy.

Morgan smiles at her beloved. <*Being understandably biased, I didn't
want to say anything until everyone else had a chance to voice their
opinion. It should come as no surprise to anyone,*> she stares into
Roland's eyes, <*That I will follow this man through fire, through
darkness, through pain, and through death.*>

   Sil just smiles and beams. *That's my boy!*
   Roland clears his throat. *Um.*
   The two ladies on either side of him say as one, <*Are you _always_
this articulate?*>
   Roland blinks, then gathers his wits for a moment. *Okay. Some
important ground to cover. Caprice, Nemo, quite frankly I wouldn't
have it any other way-I don't _want_ to be some kind of military
commander. Grife, I don't want to be _any_ kind of commander, but if
I'm going to have the responsibility then by the Light I _am_ going to
have some of the authority. But I want every- one to listen to their
conscience _before_ they listen to me.
   *Knytt, I hope I've allayed your fears on the idea of me being some
kind of general. We may call ourselves an army, but that's more a
poetic shorthand than anything else.*

<*It's a heck of a lot more poetic than 'travelling disaster area',*>
Morgan notes.

   Roland sighs, though his smile is apparent through the link. *All I
want is veto power and combat leadership. Our teamwork in large-scale
firefights has been close to nil since Oa, and I've been a warrior
long enough to know that that sort of thing will get one of us ki-*
Roland's thoughts stop as he chokes on them. John and Discie appear in
his mind. *I'm responsible for you rummies, for grife's sake, and I
will _not_ lose anyone else. Not on MY watch.*
   He looks over the assembled Callahanians. *I've never been the
leader of much of anything. The faith you've shown in me means a lot,
and while I might mess up now and then, I won't let you down.*

<*If anyone's still worried, know that Roland and I share the opinion
that leadership is far less a position of power than it is a position
of responsibility,*> Morgan adds, knowing how individualistic her
comrades are.

   Roland straightens, and seems to age five years (if that has any
meaning for an immortal) as he turns to face the Colonel.
   But before he can begin...

Knytt says:
>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?/

   *WANT? Grife no! Stuck with? Yea, more or less.*

>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.'/

   Roland blinks at the book, and, as Morgan places her hand on his
shoulder, he sends, *I do.*

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

   *I'm gonna tell G'Kar that you're stepping on his lines if you keep
this up,* Roland grouses good-naturedly.
   <OOC: Morgan's post takes place _after_ all of this. Response to
the Resistance and Morgan's wisenass 'Sheridan' comments to follow.>
===========================

Date: Thu, 19 Feb 1998 00:02:05 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE IV: Phoenix Rising

On Wed, 18 Feb 1998 23:57:06 +0800 In Message # 00002863
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001076 fuzzy said:

> On Wed, 18 Feb 98 23:18:55 -0800 In Message # 00002862
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001075 Roland X said:
>
>    <OOC: Seosaidh's Rule of Combat #1: Friendly fire isn't.>

<OOC: Amen>

>>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.>

<OOC: Actually this was Fuzzy,
 Nemisis did not feel it was her place to speak-up... :)
   When she decides she is an Adult she will be far more the Hero
    than Fuzzy ever could be.
  I am working on an off line mail reader matched to the list server
   and forgot to reset the domain name.>

> ...and Nemisis said:
>>\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.\

"Good Luck Chum, You are going to need it ;)"
===========================

Date: Thu, 19 Feb 1998 09:32:29 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Phoenix Rising

On Thu, 19 Feb 1998 07:57:16 PST In Message # 00002865
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001078 Nemo said:

In mail you write:
>    Roland sighs, though his smile is apparent through the link. *All
> I want is veto power and combat leadership. Our teamwork in large-
> scale firefights has been close to nil since Oa, and I've been a
> warrior long enough to know that that sort of thing will get one of
> us ki-* Roland's thoughts stop as he chokes on them. John and Discie
> appear in his mind. *I'm responsible for you rummies, for grife's
> sake, and I will _not_ lose anyone else. Not on MY watch.*

Roland finds his mind momentarily in the presence of a mind vaster
than worlds:

/You need not be afraid of any harm coming to the one you know as
Nemo. As my/our <untranslateable> he/it/they is/are expected to be
destroyed from time to time. I/we will replace him/it shortly after
such an occurence. He/it/they have the option of remembering as much
or as little of a demise as is consistent with his/their function./

/Since this particular aspect/manifestation has joined your group and
you are now leader_of/responsible_for the group, I/we shall grant you
and the aspect/manifestation the ability/power to decide if and in
what way the remote's 'form' disperses after 'death'./

Roland is returned to the moment, with this "lump" of menory/
experience to examine when he has a breather.

<OOC: in other words, NEMO has decided that the "self-destruct"/
"booby-trap" on this *particular* Nemo might be a problem, so both
Nemo and you have the ability top decide how fast Nemo's form converts
to energy if he gets offed.>

<And yes, while Nemo does have a sense of self preservation, etc, he's
also pretty blase about getting killed. It's something to avoid, like
a bad case of the flu. And for similar reasons. It's unpleasant,
inconvenient, and generally gets in the way of what you are doing.>
===========================

Date: Thu, 19 Feb 1998 11:34:31 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Holy Ground

On Thu, 19 Feb 1998 13:16:41 -0600 In Message # 00002867
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001080 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Wed, 18 Feb 1998 18:09:08 In Message # 00002859
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001072 Morgan said:
>
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00001071 Gareth L Owen said:
>>
>>We knew him as the man in black, or Mr Black. He put us in
>>touch with several other groups, seems that he's singlehandedly
>>trying to reform Earth's forces." he shrugs "I don't know about
>>that, but he did tell us that he thought that the Devices the greys
>>use to pollute the planet were the only things that could restore
>>it. He said some people with 'strange powers' would turn up and that
>>we should trust them, you, er, seem to match the descriptions he
>>gave."
>
>   Roland nods. "I'm inclined to agree." He grabs the smile fighting
>to surface and brutally strangles it; this is no time to make light
>of their Earth's troubles.

/Strange? Definitely sounds like us./ Knytt sends.

>She smiles. "Yep, sounds like an old friend of ours we haven't seen
>for a while. If you can remember anything else he told you, even
>little things that may not have made sense at the time, it might help
>us plan how to handle these Greys."

"Did he ever describe how those things work, even if it didn't sound
plausible to you? Might be a good point to start from." Knytt asks.

/We're back, father./ the twins send over the link.

Knytt turns and forces himself not to laugh. Melissa and Grep are
decked out in identical black suits, white shirts, black dress shoes,
everything identical down to the black Ray-bans and the chrome
Hamilton Ventura wristwatches on their left wrists. With the exception
of carrying different, heavily-chromed guns, the twins can't be told
apart.

/Twins in Black: Protecting the Earth from the scum of the universe./
they send simultaniously.

/Oh great,/ Knytt sends. "Who's idea was this?" he adds aloud.

The twins point at each other as they reply, "Hers."

One twin looks at the triple-barreled gun in her hands, then to her
sister, "You know how to use these things?"

The other twin replies, "No idea whatsoever," as she chambers a round
on what appears to be something like a pump-action plasma gun.

The first twin snickers.

/I -knew- my mother put the Curse on me,/ Knytt sends, /Just never
expected it to carry over to them. But I guess "I hope someday you
have children that act just like you" works no matter how loosely the
term 'children' applies./
===========================

Date: Thu, 19 Feb 1998 11:34:43 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Phoenix Rising

On Thu, 19 Feb 1998 13:16:49 -0600 In Message # 00002868
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001081 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Wed, 18 Feb 98 23:18:55 -0800 In Message # 00002862
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001075 Roland X said:
<snip>
>   Roland can only stare. He isn't even blushing. His shock in the
>faith shown in him is clearly apparent. He opens his mouth twice, to
>begin speaking, then closes it-at a loss for words-before he even
>remembers that the primary form of communication among the CAoL is
>telepathy.

/Good fish impression, Roland./

>   *Knytt, I hope I've allayed your fears on the idea of me being
>some kind of general. We may call ourselves an army, but that's more
>a poetic shorthand than anything else.*

Knytt nods, /I would have been surprised to hear otherwise./

>   Roland sighs, though his smile is apparent through the link. *All
>I want is veto power and combat leadership. Our teamwork in large-
>scale firefights has been close to nil since Oa, and I've been a
>warrior long enough to know that that sort of thing will get one of
>us ki-* Roland's thoughts stop as he chokes on them. John and Discie
>appear in his mind. *I'm responsible for you rummies, for grife's
>sake, and I will _not_ lose anyone else. Not on MY watch.*

/In truth, I doubt there was anything you could have done to stop
those. John went by choice, to save our necks, and Discie, hell, we
didn't even know...A very wise woman once said, "There's enough guilt
in this world without grabbing for more."/

>   *I'm gonna tell G'Kar that you're stepping on his lines if you
>keep this up,* Roland grouses good-naturedly.

/Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Besides, I doubt he
would remember me./ Knytt says.

Meanwhile, the twins are perusing the rows of weapons Armageddon
created. Coasting around on their rollerblades, the girl AIs stop in
front of a rack of chrome guns, barely reminisient of rifles or
shotguns. Grep stops and gapes. Melissa rolls to a halt next to her.

"Pretty..." Melissa says.

"...Gnarly." Grep adds. She takes two guns from the rack. "You
thinking what I'm thinking, sis?"

"Of course I am, we have the same brain after all."

They both grinned.

Knytt sends to the twins, /Girls, Roland is officially leader. Hurry
back, we have to start planning our next move./

/Congrats, Uncle Roland,/ the girls send, /We'll try and behave. Dad,
we'll be back in a minute./

Knytt looks, well, not nervous, more like expectant. /They're up to
something, I can feel it./
===========================

Date: Fri, 20 Feb 1998 18:02:33 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Phoenix Rising

On Fri, 20 Feb 1998 20:36:13 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002869
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001082 Shadow <pookie> said:

On Wed, 18 Feb 1998, Roland X wrote:
>    Roland sighs, though his smile is apparent through the link. *All
> I want is veto power and combat leadership. Our teamwork in large-
> scale firefights has been close to nil since Oa, and I've been a
> warrior long enough to know that that sort of thing will get one of
> us ki-* Roland's thoughts stop as he chokes on them. John and Discie
> appear in his mind. *I'm responsible for you rummies, for grife's
> sake, and I will _not_ lose anyone else. Not on MY watch.*

Rhiannon quckly chimes in softly, /Johann Ulen Roslik walks his own
path, Roland. It's not your fault./
===========================

Date: Sat, 21 Feb 1998 07:32:32 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE: Interlude

On Sat, 21 Feb 1998 08:35:19 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002871
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001084 Driscoll said:

 Suddenly all time seems to pause for everyone except the CaoL and one
of the troops in the crowd. He turns towards them with a grin that
litterally stretches from ear to ear. "That's what I like about you
people. You always know the fun places to visit. I'm sure this will be
an even grander show than the last one. And perhaps this time no one
will have to disappear. heheheheheheh" He fades away and time resumes
again.

 (OOC: Graduation's friday so I'm kinda setting myself up to get back
into the swing of things. Of course the other character's can't come
back until Chaos gets convinced to remember where they are and release
them but I'm sure someone can help me out with that. hint hint. ;-)
Until then I'll just have to occupy myself with getting The Controller
set up again and Chaos's side comments and cameos. ;-) )
===========================

Date: Sat, 21 Feb 1998 20:12:32 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE: Interlude

On Sat, 21 Feb 1998 18:33:36 -0600 In Message # 00002872
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001085 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Sat, 21 Feb 1998 08:35:19 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002871
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001084 Driscoll said:
>
> Suddenly all time seems to pause for everyone except the CaoL and
>one of the troops in the crowd. He turns towards them with a grin
>that litterally stretches from ear to ear. "That's what I like about
>you people. You always know the fun places to visit. I'm sure this
>will be an even grander show than the last one. And perhaps this time
>no one will have to disappear. heheheheheheh" He fades away and time
>resumes again.

/Dad, who was that?/ Melissa sends.

/An old acquaintance of Driss's. Call's itself Chaos./ Knytt replies,
frowning.

/I take it he is not that popular with you./ Grep sends.

/He once repaired my TARDIS control console with duct tape and baling
wire./

Melissa giggles and Grep actually smiles.
===========================

Date: Sat, 21 Feb 1998 20:12:44 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE: Assimilation

On Sat, 21 Feb 1998 20:04:05 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002873
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001086 Driscoll said:

 The droids scurried about finishing the final touches on The
Controller's new base of operations while he supervised aprovingly.
When he had scouted the small planet, he chose it because no race had
seemed to have explored this sector of space yet so it was still
uncharted by the locals. And now that the planetary stealth shielding
was in place hopefully it would stay that way.
 Over three fourths of his organic work force had died in the
construction of this new base, making the sight of non-mechanical
workers a much rarer sight. Being the frugal sort of course those who
died simply went towards increasing the food stores to keep alive the
others. Now he had enough food to supply them for well over a year. Of
course once he was established, a few raids for slaves on outlying
systems would replenish his workers adn even out his supplies quickly.
 Mechanical parts were in good supply, but his production of drones
had to be halted at least temporarially to keep things that way.All in
all however the base was shaping up nicely. Jadis's computer systems
were set up and running once again, and it was only a matter of time
before he could track down the army of light once again. Weapon
systems were prepared just in case soem brave adventurer did have the
misfortune to fly near enough to make a visual on the planet. Force
shields around the base would protect from most types of orbital
bombardment if anyone managed to make it that far.
 The Controller's attention was drawn away from congratulating himself
on work well done by an alien vessel entering the system. Obviously
the stealth shield had not worked as well as expected, the strange
craft's heading was a beeline directly to the planet.
 The Controller scrambled droid piloted fighters for launch and
activated orbital defense lasers to begin bombarding the large cube.
Turbolasers and ion cannons lit up the darkness of space, while x
wings and tie fighters screeched towards their target. Shields around
the cube adapted quickly and after a bit of minor damage, the weapons
seemed to have no effect whatsoever. Phaser blasts from the cube began
mopping up the defenders almost at their own leasure.
 The Controller brought up the base's shields while he contemplated
his next move. Phasers lanced down towards the base but couldn't break
through the shields. They paused for a few moments, then began firing
on different spectrums. The Controller attempted to adjust the shields
but couldn't outthink the attackers as pinpoint strikes destroyed the
generators and left teh base defenseless.
 Energy hummed in the air and two dozen cyborgs appeared scanning the
room. The Controller let loose with a plasma blast that obliterated
one Borg instantly. Others fired at him btu their phasers disipated
against his personal force shielding. Still they moved against him
moving in to hand to hand. The first one to reach him was quickly
dismembered and his limbs pitched at another pair, but others moved to
grapple with him and incapacitate his arms. "Resistance is futile. You
are an inferior design and will be assimilated into the collective."
 The Controller broke his right arm free pitching the two borg that
had been restraining it across the room. "We'll just see who will be
assimilating who!" He raised his micro antenna and locked himself into
the control centers of one of the Borg. And quickly found himself
locking into the controls of the others. As quickly as the speed of
thought he moved his mind through the collective, altering and
reprogramming until finally all the Borg recognised one mind as the
mind directing the collective. His mind.
 "So, let's just see this new ship I've so suddenly aquired."
===========================

Date: Sun, 22 Feb 1998 10:06:08 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE: Interlude

On Sun, 22 Feb 1998 00:16:15 PST In Message # 00002874
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001087 Nemo said:

> On Sat, 21 Feb 1998 08:35:19 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002871
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001084 Driscoll said:
>
>  Suddenly all time seems to pause for everyone except the CaoL and
> one of the troops in the crowd. He turns towards them with a grin
> that litterally stretches from ear to ear. "That's what I like about
> you people. You always know the fun places to visit. I'm sure this
> will be an even grander show than the last one. And perhaps this
> time no one will have to disappear. heheheheheheh" He fades away and
> time resumes again.

<I can't recall if I told folks about what happened during the first
"timestop" or not. If I did, fine. If I didn't, assume I do a fill-in
over the link now.>
===========================

Date: Sun, 22 Feb 1998 12:39:08 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE: Interlude

On Sun, 22 Feb 1998 14:29:06 -0600 In Message # 00002875
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001088 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Sun, 22 Feb 1998 00:16:15 PST In Message # 00002874
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001087 Nemo said:
>
><I can't recall if I told folks about what happened during the first
> "timestop" or not. If I did, fine. If I didn't, assume I do a
> fill-in over the link now.>

Knytt's only reply is /That's it, from now on, I only visit -atheist-
universes./
===========================

Date: Sun, 22 Feb 1998 13:35:55 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE: OOC: Interlude

On Sun, 22 Feb 1998 16:13:26 EST In Message # 00002876
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001089 Dane0R0A said:

<< Nemo wrote:
 <I can't recall if I told folks about what happened during the first
"timestop" or not. If I did, fine. If I didn't, assume I do a fill-in
over the link now.>
>>
 You didn't, and neither Armagedon or Hydra would, unless asked for
the info.
===========================

Date: Sun, 22 Feb 1998 23:04:29 -0800 (PST)
Subject: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Sun, 22 Feb 98 22:50:05 -0800 In Message # 00002877
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001090 Roland X said:

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

   Roland rolls his eyes, and everyone can tell that he's thinking of
something wicked for Morgan's...benefit...when he shakes the thought
off and files it for later. "Colonel, my allies and I are at your
disposal, within reason. We all have the limits of our conscience,
which varies greatly-I choose not to kill if at all possible, while
this one-" Roland gestures to Armagedon- "-is designed for mass
destruction. If I may suggest, however...some of us are vastly
powerful, and suited for strikes of great force, while others, like
'Mr. Black,' are better suited to the shadows."

Morgan sends a slight mental wince at his choice of words.

   *Remind me to tell you about a friend of mine by the name of Lara
some day,* Roland replies, then continues verbally. "I suggest two
forces from our group. One will aid you in attacking the Greys
directly, and the other will infiltrate them and gather intelligence.

<*Infiltrate?*> Morgan asks.

   *Would you care to explain to him all of our powers of, ah,
misdirection?* Roland notes.
   "Is this acceptable to you?" he finishes.
   Through the link, Roland continues with the leadership issues.
*There are two things I'd like to address while we have a moment's
breather. With another manifestation of Chaos out there, MolloM-from
what Nemo tells us-will be _very_ unhappy _very_ soon. (OOC: This is
your hint, Driss. <g>) Anyway, one matter is our teamwork. Or rather,
our lack thereof. This will need more than a few minutes of work,
obviously, but a few code words will simplify matters immensely in a
firefight, especially against monstrosities like Jadis. I'm willing to
accept submissions for terms, but essentially 'everyone strike X,'
'fall back,' 'misdirection' and such are all good ideas to be able to
call on instantly.
   *The other idea involves the sigils. Although Xzerrion did not
design them to function the way that the old House sigils did, I don't
think that altering them to serve as an energy pool would be all too
difficult. That way, any one of us could draw on extra power at need,
and the sigils could filter it so that the less cosmic of us don't
incinerate ourselves.*
   (OOC: Just tryin' to get the plot moving along here...anyhoo,
suggestion one will allow us to get combat tactics in without having
to get everyone to post a 'yea, I do X' just to have a coordinated
strike. Cool bits o' flash can, of course, be posted after the fact.
<g>)
===========================

Date: Sun, 22 Feb 1998 23:34:49 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 02:23:29 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002878
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001091 Xzerrion said:

On Sun, 22 Feb 1998, Roland X wrote:
>    Roland rolls his eyes, and everyone can tell that he's thinking
> of something wicked for Morgan's...benefit...when he shakes the
> thought off and files it for later. "Colonel, my allies and I are at
> your disposal, within reason. We all have the limits of our
> conscience, which varies greatly-I choose not to kill if at all
> possible, while this one-" Roland gestures to Armagedon- "-is
> designed for mass destruction. If I may suggest, however...some of
> us are vastly powerful, and suited for strikes of great force, while
> others, like 'Mr. Black,' are better suited to the shadows."
>
> Morgan sends a slight mental wince at his choice of words.

Xzerrion sends, *I wouldn't say I'm suited for them, but I've fought
one. That wasn't pretty.*

>    *Remind me to tell you about a friend of mine by the name of Lara
> some day,* Roland replies, then continues verbally. "I suggest two
> forces from our group. One will aid you in attacking the Greys
> directly, and the other will infiltrate them and gather
> intelligence.
>
> <*Infiltrate?*> Morgan asks.

*Yes, infiltrate. If I wanted to, and we think it advisable, I could
*be* a grey for a while.*

<snip>
>    *The other idea involves the sigils. Although Xzerrion did not
> design them to function the way that the old House sigils did, I
> don't think that altering them to serve as an energy pool would be
> all too difficult. That way, any one of us could draw on extra power
> at need, and the sigils could filter it so that the less cosmic of
> us don't incinerate ourselves.*

*Interesting idea. Tezrantha and I should be able to get that working,
given a few hours. A few Houses I've heard of tried the same idea for
linking their mages before. Just the way I've seen it done, members
who have been linked in this way too long start thinking and acting
alike, a definite drawback to a race as individual-oriented as my
own.*
===========================

Date: Mon, 23 Feb 1998 00:02:10 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Sun, 22 Feb 1998 23:57:35 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002879
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001092 fuzzy said:

> On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 02:23:29 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002878
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001091 Xzerrion said:
>
> *Yes, infiltrate. If I wanted to, and we think it advisable, I could
> *be* a grey for a while.*

\I think that my talents will best be used indirectly dealing with
their power source.
 In this situation I am poorly prepaired to work at infiltration and
Direct attack does not suite my style.\

> *Interesting idea. Tezrantha and I should be able to get that
> working, given a few hours. A few Houses I've heard of tried the
> same idea for linking their mages before. Just the way I've seen it
> done, members who have been linked in this way too long start
> thinking and acting alike, a definite drawback to a race as
> individual-oriented as my own.*

\I thought you had realized when the Stardragon internalized the
{Nature} of the Sigil It was given...
 If you get the Filters and Limiters setup, I will ask the Stardragon
to attach a resevior of 5 Kilos each of Mana and Psi and a general
format Energy to Its linkage.
 This is the Spell format to use the Sigil as a communications link to
the Stardragon to request more energy for a specific purpose, be sure
to specify what type, amount, and format you need.
 And This is the Mental Twist that will do the same for our Espers
that can follow it.
 The reserve should act as a buffer for when we don't have time to
ask.\

<OOC: I checked this with Dane when it happened... :)>
===========================

Date: Mon, 23 Feb 1998 02:34:11 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 02:15:21 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002880
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001093 The Lone One said:

On Sun, 22 Feb 1998, Paul Campbell wrote:
> *Yes, infiltrate. If I wanted to, and we think it advisable, I could
> *be* a grey for a while.*

     Raver quietly offers, *We could be a Grey also. For us, illusions
are not necessary, as we can keep a Grey's shape for a significant
length of time if nothing disturbs our concentration.*

> *Interesting idea. Tezrantha and I should be able to get that
> working, given a few hours. A few Houses I've heard of tried the
> same idea for linking their mages before. Just the way I've seen it
> done, members who have been linked in this way too long start
> thinking and acting alike, a definite drawback to a race as
> individual-oriented as my own.*

     *That sounds good. However, we will not need a sigil, as I am
already restraining my power in order to accomodate Mandy's well-being
-- and that will increase the amount of power available to anyone who
should happen to need it. Not that increasing the amount of power we
can use would make a real difference in the outcome of the war,
anyway, as one of the side effects of our bond is that I cannot affect
anything outside ourselves.*
===========================

Date: Mon, 23 Feb 1998 10:06:09 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 11:51:16 -0600 In Message # 00002881
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001094 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Sun, 22 Feb 98 22:50:05 -0800 In Message # 00002877
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001090 Roland X said:
<snip>
>   *Remind me to tell you about a friend of mine by the name of Lara
>some day,* Roland replies, then continues verbally. "I suggest two
>forces from our group. One will aid you in attacking the Greys
>directly, and the other will infiltrate them and gather intelligence.
<tiny snip>
>   "Is this acceptable to you?" he finishes.

^Where should we go, Melissa?^ Knytt sends privately via cyberpsi. ^I
know Grep is going with the infiltration group.^

^Actually, I have rethought that,^ Grep sends, ^I would be better
suited to a direct attack. Intelligence gathering is more Melissa's
field.^

^Sounds reasonable,^ Knytt sends, ^Still unsure where I should go.^

^We have been wondering about that book. You have noticed it does not
require you to write in it to function? It just seems to organize your
thoughts.^

^Yes, I have noticed that.^

^Since it only seems to require physical contact, we think you might
find it more functional as a form of wrist computer. That would leave
both hands free.^

^Interesting idea.^

The book seemed to agree, because it bent to form a cylinder around
Knytt's left wrist, the screen shrinking to a 6" by 3" flat monitor
and a small clip where a pen nestled snugly.

^As for where you should be, we would prefer you stay with Grep until
you learn what that 'book' is capable of. It strikes us as a powerful
object, but unpredictable at the moment. It would be safer to learn
about it somewhere where stealth is not required.^

^I bow to your logic.^ Without missing a beat, the twins' form of
cyberpsi being extremely quick, Knytt says through the general link,
/Sounds like a plan, Roland. Grep and I go for the direct assault,
Melissa for infiltration and investigation. That should match our
abilities well enough. I would go for infiltration myself, but the
girls feel it would be safer for everyone if I remained here until I
learn what this 'book' can do. No sense getting everyone killed
because I have a stray thought./

>   Through the link, Roland continues with the leadership issues.
>*There are two things I'd like to address while we have a moment's
>breather. With another manifestation of Chaos out there, MolloM-from
>what Nemo tells us-will be _very_ unhappy _very_ soon. (OOC: This is
>your hint, Driss. <g>) Anyway, one matter is our teamwork. Or rather,
>our lack thereof. This will need more than a few minutes of work,
>obviously, but a few code words will simplify matters immensely in a
>firefight, especially against monstrosities like Jadis. I'm willing
>to accept submissions for terms, but essentially 'everyone strike X,'
>'fall back,' 'misdirection' and such are all good ideas to be able to
>call on instantly.

/Those sound workable as is, Uncle./ Grep sends. /No need to get
fancy. It would only make things confusing. There is supposed to be a
test in the United States' Military branches that requires one to
write an order and if anyone misinterprets it, the writer fails./

Melissa smiles. /In other words, the KISS principle should apply
nicely here./

/I might suggest 'keep X busy' instead of 'misdirection',/ Grep adds,
/It would be faster to say or think. But, I don't think it will be an
issue. As long as the idea gets across./

/Besides,/ Melissa sends, /You'll be too busy fighting to compose any
command too terribly complex./
===========================

Date: Mon, 23 Feb 1998 11:05:40 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 13:57:59 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002882
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001095 Xzerrion said:

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998, Michael Jon Knight wrote:
> /Those sound workable as is, Uncle./ Grep sends. /No need to get
> fancy. It would only make things confusing. There is supposed to be
> a test in the United States' Military branches that requires one to
> write an order and if anyone misinterprets it, the writer fails./
>
> Melissa smiles. /In other words, the KISS principle should apply
> nicely here./

Xzerrion glances at Melissa speculatively, appraising her form.
Tezrantha drags his head around by a pointed ear. "Never mind," she
says firmly.

> /I might suggest 'keep X busy' instead of 'misdirection',/ Grep
> adds, /It would be faster to say or think. But, I don't think it
> will be an issue. As long as the idea gets across./

*I'd also suggest keeping battle commands solely in the link. That
way, they shouldn't be intercepted,* Xzerrion notes.
===========================

Date: Mon, 23 Feb 1998 14:06:02 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 13:47:36 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002883
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001096 fuzzy said:

> On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 13:57:59 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002882
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001095 Xzerrion said:
<snip>
>> /I might suggest 'keep X busy' instead of 'misdirection',/ Grep
>> adds, /It would be faster to say or think. But, I don't think it
>> will be an issue. As long as the idea gets across./
>
> *I'd also suggest keeping battle commands solely in the link. That
> way, they shouldn't be intercepted,* Xzerrion notes.

\Sounds good.\

\since no-one else has been very specific as to what the commands
should be and we are looking at keeping them telepathic anyway...
 My default concepts are:
Mouse {image}   ' Attack this one
Toy {image}     ' Distract or Play with this one
Hide {image}    ' Run-Away Meet here
Dinner {image}  ' Kill it Quick
 Just as a few basics, that probably only the feline members of the
party would reflexively understand... Ohh Well ;)\
===========================

Date: Mon, 23 Feb 1998 18:05:22 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 20:01:38 -0600 In Message # 00002884
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001097 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 13:57:59 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002882
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001095 Xzerrion said:
>
>On Mon, 23 Feb 1998, Michael Jon Knight wrote:
>
>> Melissa smiles. /In other words, the KISS principle should apply
>> nicely here./
>
>Xzerrion glances at Melissa speculatively, appraising her form.
>Tezrantha drags his head around by a pointed ear. "Never mind," she
>says firmly.

/Uncle Xzerrion!/ Melissa sends, shocked. She hides behind Knytt, who
just shakes his head.

Grep sends, /Kay-I-Ess-Ess. It stands for Keep It Simple, Stupid./
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 10:04:36 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 23:08:16 PST In Message # 00002885
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001098 Nemo said:

>    *That sounds good. However, we will not need a sigil, as I am
> already restraining my power in order to accomodate Mandy's well-
> being -- and that will increase the amount of power available to
> anyone who should happen to need it. Not that increasing the amount
> of power we can use would make a real difference in the outcome of
> the war, anyway, as one of the side effects of our bond is that I
> cannot affect anything outside= ourselves.*

Nemo sends privately to Raver and Mandy.

/Mandy? I cannot say whether it would prove useful or not, but I think
there is a *possibility* you may be able to use one of my power taps
as a sort of insulation from or refuge against the negative effects
that Raver's powers have upon your identity. I am certain that given a
century or two we could develop something that *would* preserve you.
But since we do not have that time to spare, all I can do is offer
this possibility. I do not think it can harm you if you approach it
with care. And it may be able to help. But I can promise nothing./

<OOC: I suspect that this *isn't* the direction you want to go with
your character. But Nemo would feel bound to *offer* the possibility.
Think of it as climbing into a sort of "bomb shelter" when things get
dicey.>

<if you do want to play with it, drop me a message and I'll give you
my idea of what it might look like to Mandy.>
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 10:04:52 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE: Interlude

On Tue, 24 Feb 1998 02:07:07 PST In Message # 00002886
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001099 Nemo said:

> Knytt's only reply is /That's it, from now on, I only visit
> -atheist- universes./

Nemo sends back

/Then you won't be traveling much. There are reasons to believe that a
Maker is *required* for a universe. And solipsism won't get you out of
the problem either. :-)/
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 10:05:05 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 23:34:26 PST In Message # 00002887
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001100 Nemo said:

> \since no-one else has been very specific as to what the commands
> should be and we are looking at keeping them telepathic anyway...
>  My default concepts are:
> Mouse {image}   ' Attack this one
> Toy {image}     ' Distract or Play with this one
> Hide {image}    ' Run-Away Meet here
> Dinner {image}  ' Kill it Quick
>  Just as a few basics, that probably only the feline members of the
> party would reflexively understand... Ohh Well ;)\

/Well, we'll have to drill until they *are* reflexes. Or program them
as reflexes, for those of use with that ability. I see one *major*
word missing./

/"Hold!". This signals that all actions except *passive* defense
should cease. It's for use when someone spots something like an
innocent you can't see in your line of fire, or notices that you are
about to trip a boobytrap. It should be followed *immediately* by an
explanation of *why* the hold has been called. But the "freeze" should
be automatic./

<OOC: any SCA typew will have no trouble with this one. Heck, it gets
used on SCA kids at home. :-)>

/Another simple word that I suspect this group will need is "Mine
{image}" indicating that the sender wants to deal with this threat
*personally*. Of course, our leader may wish to override it in some
circumstances./

/BTW, I suspect that "hide" is a poor choice. That should be reserved
for actual concealment requests. The concept seems to be a combination
of "Break" (break contact with the enemy) and "Rally {image}"
(re-group at indicated location)./

/And finally, while I hope we never need it, we should make provision
for the standard "sauve qui peut" (sove key poo) situation. "Sauve qui
peut" has a literal meaning of "save himself who can" and a
military/idiomatic meaning of "All is lost, get away anyway you can,
every man for himself". In short, it's military lingo for utter
disaster. (Like the first MI drop on Klendathau) It should not be
confused with Retreat which is an *orderly*, organized withdrawal./
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 10:05:17 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 22:31:36 PST In Message # 00002888
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001101 Nemo said:

> On Sun, 22 Feb 1998 23:57:35 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002879
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001092 fuzzy said:
>
> \I think that my talents will best be used indirectly dealing with
> their power source.
>  In this situation I am poorly prepaired to work at infiltration and
> Direct attack does not suite my style.\

/I'll join you on that. While I can be very good at direct attacks,
this situation is *not* suited for such. And I wouldn't do well at
inflitrating in this case./

>> On Sun, 22 Feb 1998, Roland X wrote:
>>
>>>    *The other idea involves the sigils. Although Xzerrion did not
>>> design them to function the way that the old House sigils did, I
>>> don't think that altering them to serve as an energy pool would be
>>> all too difficult. That way, any one of us could draw on extra
>>> power at need, and the sigils could filter it so that the less
>>> cosmic of us don't incinerate ourselves.*

/I can also supply "power". The opportunity to offer to do so had not
arisen before. I can supply you with any amount of energy or with any
of the forces. But controlling the energy ofr forces, once 'tapped' is
up to the weilder. While you *could* request matter, in various forms
over the link, I fear that most of you cannot specify the 'format'
well enough to make use of that aspect of energy. They do not supply
"manna" or other "magical" energies./

To those who indicate willingness to have such, Nemo offers what at
first glance appear to be grayish-white flat cylinders (think olympic
medal or other large "coin" type shape).

Upon closer examination, one can see that they are an incredibly
complex fractal, constantly changing shape and color, but with the
overall average color and shape averaging out to the grayish white
cylinder.

/They can be 'bonded' to whatever you wish. I suggested using a
portion of your body rather than an object that can be easily taken
from you. As you can see, the size is suitable for forehead, wrist,
palm, or chest "mounting" to name but a few possibilities. They will
disappear into whatever you choose to bond them to. though they'll be
somewhat visible when being heavily used, or if searched for with the
right sort of sensors./

/As a safeguard they are set to only respond to clear commands, using
a "code prefix" thought. This is to prevent problems such as the
inhabitants of Altair IV[1] had with equivalent technology.". And they
require precidse instructions, so as to avoid calling forth more than
you can handle./

<OOC: yes, you *could* call forth enough power to destroy anything
with these. As can Nemo. But the "safeguard" is that you have to be
able to *conceive* of the effect you are calling forth. So unless you
are already used to manipulating that sort of power, you'll get back
the equivalent of "Command unclear, please rephrase". And again, the
*complexity* of the energy/force/matter structure you specify is
limited by your own limits in "visualizing" it. So the Twins will have
an easy time with coplexity, but perhaps a bit of trouble with high
power. Roland ought to do well with high power, but only so so with
complex projections. That's because *unlike* a Green Lantern Power
Ring, these *don't* "fill in the gaps" in your request. Others will
likely get the best use out of simple uses like calling forth "blasts"
of energy or force, or supplying simple things like heat and light in
modest amounts. Or to "recharge"/power various weaponry and devices.>

/These are hooked into the same minor power source I use. And they may
facilitate gating for those of you with that ability./

<OOC: they also will act as a sensor feed for NEMO, unless your
thoughts make it clear that you are doing something "private".>

[1] Remember "Forbidden Planet" and the "Monsters from the ID"? :-)
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 16:06:11 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE: Interlude

On Tue, 24 Feb 1998 17:48:04 -0600 In Message # 00002889
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001102 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Tue, 24 Feb 1998 02:07:07 PST In Message # 00002886
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001099 Nemo said:
>
>/Then you won't be traveling much. There are reasons to believe that
> a Maker is *required* for a universe. And solipsism won't get you
> out of the problem either. :-)/

Knytt smirks, /Solipsism always struck me as selfish anyway./
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 21:05:26 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Tue, 24 Feb 98 21:07:34 -0800 In Message # 00002890
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001103 Roland X said:

>On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 11:51:16 -0600 In Message # 00002881
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001094 Michael Jon Knight said:
>
>>On Sun, 22 Feb 98 22:50:05 -0800 In Message # 00002877
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00001090 Roland X said:
<snip>
>^I bow to your logic.^ Without missing a beat, the twins' form of
>cyberpsi being extremely quick, Knytt says through the general link,
>/Sounds like a plan, Roland. Grep and I go for the direct assault,
>Melissa for infiltration and investigation. That should match our
>abilities well enough. I would go for infiltration myself, but the
>girls feel it would be safer for everyone if I remained here until I
>learn what this 'book' can do. No sense getting everyone killed
>because I have a stray thought./

   Roland frowns. *Um, Knytt, you _might_ want to leave the book _as_
a book, so that you have to actually _write_ in it; I'd hate to have
the universe drop out from under us because you subvocalize a stray
thought.*

<*How about if he has to type on the wrist computer?*> Morgan adds.
<*It would be easier than carrying the book around.*>

   *Better,* Roland admits, impressed.

>>   Through the link, Roland continues with the leadership issues.
>>*There are two things I'd like to address while we have a moment's
>>breather. With another manifestation of Chaos out there, MolloM-from
>>what Nemo tells us-will be _very_ unhappy _very_ soon. (OOC: This is
>>your hint, Driss. <g>) Anyway, one matter is our teamwork. Or
>>rather, our lack thereof. This will need more than a few minutes of
>>work, obviously, but a few code words will simplify matters
>>immensely in a firefight, especially against monstrosities like
>>Jadis. I'm willing to accept submissions for terms, but essentially
>>'everyone strike X,' 'fall back,' 'misdirection' and such are all
>>good ideas to be able to call on instantly.
>
>/Those sound workable as is, Uncle./ Grep sends. /No need to get
>fancy. It would only make things confusing. There is supposed to be a
>test in the United States' Military branches that requires one to
>write an order and if anyone misinterprets it, the writer fails./

   *A one-word code is by definition confusing...for anyone who
doesn't understand it. <g> That's the other reason for the code
words,* Roland explains.

>Melissa smiles. /In other words, the KISS principle should apply
>nicely here./
>
>/I might suggest 'keep X busy' instead of 'misdirection',/ Grep adds,
>/It would be faster to say or think. But, I don't think it will be an
>issue. As long as the idea gets across./
>
>/Besides,/ Melissa sends, /You'll be too busy fighting to compose any
>command too terribly complex./

   Roland blinks. *Um, Melissa, that's the _point_ of code words. A
long, complex command can be reduced to 'fastball' or the like. The
Klingons and the X-Men have been using such codes to great effect for
some time, as have several terrestrial military forces. The trick is
training with them so that they become automatic in a firefight.* He
shrugs. *Anyway, it's an idea. Something I picked up with the Justice
League. I just wish I could remember their codes...*

<*We have an advantage over their codes, though. We can send an image
as easily as a word, and with the link we can send comands reasonably
securely so we don't need to use obscure words,*> Morgan sends.

   *It's secure...until it's not,* Roland comments dryly. *As for
images, that works too, though I'm fairly sure we're all verbalizing
sentients. As for advantages, both J'Onn and Diana are telepathic. I
think they actually prefer speaking, though they don't have the link
that we do.*

<*Just remember, the link increases our options,*> Morgan notes.
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 21:35:21 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Tue, 24 Feb 1998 22:31:38 EST In Message # 00002891
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001104 Dane0R0A said:

<< fuzzy said:
 \I thought you had realized when the Stardragon internalized the
{Nature} of the Sigil It was given...
  If you get the Filters and Limiters setup, I will ask the Stardragon
to attach a resevior of 5 Kilos each of Mana and Psi and a general
format Energy to Its linkage.
  This is the Spell format to use the Sigil as a communications link
to the Stardragon to request more energy for a specific purpose, be
sure to specify what type, amount, and format you need.
  And This is the Mental Twist that will do the same for our Espers
that can follow it.
  The reserve should act as a buffer for when we don't have time to
ask.\

 <OOC: I checked this with Dane when it happened... :)>
  >>
<OOC: Yep>

Armagedon says "The Stardragon has already made the power available. I
can sense its power there, with the sigils, like a glowing
fingerprint. Each person having a sigil, could draw enough power to
incinerate a planet. Though for the less hardy amoung you, I wouldn't
advise doing that, since I detect NO safeties on the power links, and
those who don't know how to direct that much energy would be just as
likely to incinerate themselves in the process." Those with the
senses, or sensors, to detect it (now that it is brought to their
attention) can sense a "sea" of energy somewhere "behind" the sigils.

<OOC: the energy is available in whatever form the "user" wants it:
healing magics, combat magics, physical (eg. technical), psionic)>
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 22:35:35 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Wed, 25 Feb 1998 00:17:27 -0600 In Message # 00002892
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001105 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Tue, 24 Feb 98 21:07:34 -0800 In Message # 00002890
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001103 Roland X said:
>
>>On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 11:51:16 -0600 In Message # 00002881
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00001094 Michael Jon Knight said:
>>
<snip>
>   Roland frowns. *Um, Knytt, you _might_ want to leave the book _as_
>a book, so that you have to actually _write_ in it; I'd hate to have
>the universe drop out from under us because you subvocalize a stray
>thought.*
>
><*How about if he has to type on the wrist computer?*> Morgan adds.
><*It would be easier than carrying the book around.*>
>
>   *Better,* Roland admits, impressed.

/Well, let's face it, the real problem is in not subvocalizing stray
thoughts, not in what shape the device is currently in. Aha! I think I
know./ Knytt takes the wrist computer off and hands it to Melissa, He
concentrates for a moment but nothing happens.

/Good, with no contact, it doesn't work./ Taking the pen from its clip
on the computer, he writes: A white towel drops in Knytt's left hand.
As expected, one does. He wraps it firmly around his left forearm, and
Melissa helps him get the wristcomputer back on over the towel. With
it back in place, Knytt concentrates again. Nothing happens.

/Ok,/ Knytt grins, /One 'stray thought' barrier. Feels like I am
wearing a cast, but at least it works./

<snip>
>   *It's secure...until it's not,* Roland comments
>dryly. *As for images, that works too, though I'm
>fairly sure we're all verbalizing sentients. As for
>advantages, both J'Onn and Diana are telepathic. I
>think they actually prefer speaking, though they
>don't have the link that we do.*
>
><*Just remember, the link increases our options,*> Morgan notes.

Grep shrugs, /We are operating under the presumption, based upon past
data, that we will not have the luxury of time to memorize a series of
codes. If it were simply a matter of programming each of us, we would
agree that obscure would equal secure. However since humans do not
program as easily as machines, we had to adjust our calculations
accordingly./
===========================

Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 23:57:58 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Tue, 24 Feb 1998 23:52:46 -0800 (PST) In Message # 00002893
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001106 fuzzy said:

> On Tue, 24 Feb 1998 22:31:38 EST In Message # 00002891
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001104 Dane0R0A said:
<snip>
> Armagedon says "The Stardragon has already made the power available.
> I can sense its power there, with the sigils, like a glowing
> fingerprint. Each person having a sigil, could draw enough power to
> incinerate a planet. Though for the less hardy amoung you, I
> wouldn't advise doing that, since I detect NO safeties on the power
> links, and those who don't know how to direct that much energy would
> be just as likely to incinerate themselves in the process." Those
> with the senses, or sensors, to detect it (now that it is brought to
> their attention) can sense a "sea" of energy somewhere "behind" the
> sigils.
>
> <OOC: the energy is available in whatever form the "user" wants it:
> healing magics, combat magics, physical (eg. technical), psionic)>

As worry is just begining to show in Fuzzy's thoughts
 Nemisis speaks up \I will be installing limiting filters in the
Chain/Setting I handed out
  I will also be adding that to the Sigil's of anyone who did not take
one then, Sorry...
 Address the Setting in Thought as to Max Sustained Flow and Peak Draw
Rates for each energy type you expect to be drawing to what you
consider to be safe for you.
 You can reset this at will or bypass it by drawing on the Sigil
Directly at any time.
 I will be starting with Xzerrion's Sigil and working down the Hazard
Curve from there.
 Installation and Upgrade will commence in .5 Second.\

Fuzzy Speaks
\Thank You Nemisis... I was just realizing the need for such an
Emergency Operation.\

Nemisis
\#Your Welcome Lord Fuzzy.\
\Nemo I believe I would Like one of those energy links, at least
temporarily...
 I have less knowledge than I would like about stabalized energy
projections and Fields of Force.\

Fuzzy
\I will take one as well, {Never reject a possible edge}\
===========================

Date: Wed, 25 Feb 1998 07:35:01 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Wed, 25 Feb 1998 07:08:52 In Message # 00002894
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001107 Morgan said:

>On Wed, 25 Feb 1998 00:17:27 -0600 In Message # 00002892
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001105 Michael Jon Knight said:
>
>/Good, with no contact, it doesn't work./ Taking the pen from its
>clip on the computer, he writes: A white towel drops in Knytt's left
>hand. As expected, one does. He wraps it firmly around his left
>forearm, and Melissa helps him get the wristcomputer back on over the
>towel. With it back in place, Knytt concentrates again. Nothing
>happens.
>
>/Ok,/ Knytt grins, /One 'stray thought' barrier. Feels like I am
>wearing a cast, but at least it works./

Morgan grins. <*Well, at least now he'll always know where his towel
is.*>

<OOC: g, d & r ;-)>
===========================

Date: Wed, 25 Feb 1998 11:34:16 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Wed, 25 Feb 1998 09:54:11 PST In Message # 00002895
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001108 Nemo said:

> Nemisis
> \#Your Welcome Lord Fuzzy.\
> \Nemo I believe I would Like one of those energy links, at least
> temporarily...
>  I have less knowledge than I would like about stabalized energy
> projections and Fields of Force.\
>
> Fuzzy
> \I will take one as well, {Never reject a possible edge}\

/Just be certain you know the edge from the grip./

<OOC: It occurs to me that I may not have been entirely clear about
*how* they are limited. I'm going to try explaining it OOC, in hope I
can do better:

If you ask for a "left-handed frammis" you not only need to know what
a frammis is, but what shape it is to the degree that "shape" affects
function. Likewise you'd need to know what a frammis is made of, and
any relevant details of internal structure.

So asking for a "10 cm cube of iron" will work. Of course, with those
parameters, you'll get a jo-block finish, and a *perfect* crystal
structure (ie tap it wrong and it shatters)

Asking for something based on microcircuitry or some other incredibly
detailed item isn't going to work unless you are Nemo or one of the
twins. :-)

Water and oxygen are pretty safe.

Likewise energy is *fairly* simple, You just have to have a "feel" for
how much energy is needed for your pupose. Nemo has deliberately set
the so that you *can't* just ask for "5 petawatts of coherent X-rays
in a 1 cm diameter beam aimed in that direction". It'll balk at the "5
petawatts" unless you actually have some idea how *much* energy that
is (hint, it's better than supernova level:-). So instead you have to
do the equivalent of picture the amount of havoc desired. Which keeps
the power down to levels not too much greater than what you've
seen/sensed/experienced.

Forces (gravity, electromagnetic, weak nuclear, strong nuclear,
Alderson, etc) are the really messy ones. You have to be able to
"describe" or "picture" how much of what sort of force(s) and what the
"field" should have as a "shape". Again, it makes them a pain to use
ast first except for really simple things. It also prevents you from
creating black holes with you inside the event horizon.:-)

Suggested "force" uses are generasting "simple" magnetic fields (for
walking up metallic walls), simple eletical fields for zapping people,
and possibly neutralizing some gravity after starting an involuntary
high dive. It wouldnt slow you down, but at least you'd quit speeding
up. That give you time to try tweaking things enough for a soft
landing. Of course, that makes you a sitting duck target...

In short, if it isn't something ypu "kinda" know how to do already,
you'll need practice and a firefight is not the place to be
practicing.

"Be careful what ou ask for. You may get it."

If we ever have a "slow" period between adventures, I hope to see some
"interesting" posts about practice sessions.

End OOC>
===========================

Date: Fri, 27 Feb 1998 19:35:01 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: Voices of Authority

On Fri, 27 Feb 1998 22:28:44 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002899
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001112 Shadow <pookie> said:

> On Mon, 23 Feb 1998 22:31:36 PST In Message # 00002888
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001101 Nemo said:
> /I can also supply "power". The opportunity to offer to do so had
> not arisen before. I can supply you with any amount of energy or
> with any of the forces. But controlling the energy ofr forces, once
> 'tapped' is up to the weilder. While you *could* request matter, in
> various forms over the link, I fear that most of you cannot specify
> the 'format' well enough to make use of that aspect of energy. They
> do not supply "manna" or other "magical" energies./
>
> To those who indicate willingness to have such, Nemo offers what at
> first glance appear to be grayish-white flat cylinders (think
> olympic medal or other large "coin" type shape).

Rhiannon asks Nemo for a cylinder, thanking him afterwards. She stares
at it for several minutes, also examining the sigil around her neck.
Then she takes the cylinder and places it on the crosspiece of her
sword. It sinks into it and vanishes from sight. As soon as the
cylinder touches it the sword begins to change. Metal along the blade
starts to writhe as runes begin to emerge along it. The guard and hilt
elongate slightly; the guard curving up at the ends with ornate
etchings working down to the hilt which now ends in a claw clutching
an orb. The entire sword is now smaller, and almost seems smug.
===========================

Date: Sat, 28 Feb 1998 07:04:17 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Aae:It's too quiet

On Sat, 28 Feb 1998 08:03:26 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002902
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001115 Driscoll said:

 (ooc: Well as you know it's been quiet as of late as everyone await's
The Stranger's next post but I'm back, I'm bored and I can't even
participate in the link conversations right now so I think I'll take
up The Stranger's earlier offer of people being able to throw in
wandering nasties. Muahahahaha)

 The Controller had finished installing the computer system into the
Borg Cube over 12 hours ago but he was having trouble calibrating the
equipment acurately. For a moment he was tempted to call on Jadis to
help since it was his technology but that passed quickly. Jadis could
be a good tool but he could also seemed like the sort who could become
irritating very quickly if you owed anything to him.
 Finally The Controller locked on the CaoL enough to lock onto their
dimention and general placement, but either the equipment or something
about the dimention seemed to be interfeering with an exact lock on
them. The Controller left the control panel contented non-the-less.
This would be a good time to test his new servents. With their
cybernetic upgrades a few squads of them might not be able to destroy
the CaoL, but they should be able to pinpoint the do-gooders without
The Controller revealing his presense.
 The Borg's mental network passed along the orders and complete
descriptions of the Army of Light flawlessly. The Controller then
opened gates to three areas of London, sending off a dozen Borg to
each with the first priority of locating the CaoL, and the second to
attempt to capture locals for assimilation to help swell the Borg
ranks.

 (OOC: OK, I left it open this way so if people are interested the
Borg can find the group, or if they're not or this is going to Mess
with Gareth's plans too much there's just three dozen of them
sightseeing. ;-) )
===========================

Date: Sat, 28 Feb 1998 12:04:58 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:It's too quiet

On Sat, 28 Feb 1998 11:37:32 PST In Message # 00002903
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001116 Nemo said:

> On Sat, 28 Feb 1998 08:03:26 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002902
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001115 Driscoll said:
>
>  The Borg's mental network passed along the orders and complete
> descriptions of the Army of Light flawlessly. The Controller then
> opened gates to three areas of London, sending off a dozen Borg to
> each with the first priority of locating the CaoL, and the second to
> attempt to capture locals for assimilation to help swell the Borg
> ranks.
>
>  (OOC: OK, I left it open this way so if people are interested the
> Borg can find the group, or if they're not or this is going to Mess
> with Gareth's plans too much there's just three dozen of them
> sightseeing. ;-) )

<OOC: assuming that it doesn't mess with Gareth's plans...>

Nemo:

/Roland, 3 groups of cybernetic humanoids have gated into the city.
Are you familar with 'Borg'?/

<if not, a quick summary of the species is sent>

/I'd suggest that due to our natures, I and the twins are best suited
for dealing with them. We have the best chance of 'converting' them
without needing to destroy them./

<OOC: Nemo's species could have gone the way of the Borg, or even
worse. And he knows it. He'd rather not kill them, partly because they
don't have "free will" and partly because there's chance of heading
them back onto the path to transendence whether it be the route his
species took, Spider's "The Mind" or any of the myriad other
possibilities>
===========================

Date: Sat, 28 Feb 1998 23:51:36 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: It's too quiet

On Sat, 28 Feb 1998 23:42:24 In Message # 00002904
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001117 Morgan said:

>On Sat, 28 Feb 1998 11:37:32 PST In Message # 00002903
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001116 Nemo said:
>
>/Roland, 3 groups of cybernetic humanoids have gated into the city.
> Are you familar with 'Borg'?/

   *Yes. A race of Omega-class Sentinels,* Roland replies dryly.
*Fortunately, while I've never faced them personally, I have monitored
them in the past, and hacking their systems shouldn't be much
different from scrambling Sentinel master systems.*

>/I'd suggest that due to our natures, I and the twins are best suited
> for dealing with them. We have the best chance of 'converting' them
> without needing to destroy them./

   *Well, as I said, I've dealt with a like force before, but
otherwise I agree with you. I have no intention of picking up 'Kirk'
syndrome and insisting on going along on every mission.* Roland
frowns.

^Among other symptoms,^ Morgan adds with a mischeivious grin.

   ^I do...NOT act like...Captain...Kirk,^ Roland replies in his best
(worst) William Shatner voice. ^Don't worry, love, I don't intend to
have a lady in every 'port.' I've got the only one I want or need.^ He
adds a mental grin. ^Not that they've been exactly beating down my
door.^

^Doesn't bother _me_ any,^ Morgan replies, and Roland feels a nibble
at his ear...

   *Not that it's likely, but let me know if you need backup,* Roland
sends, composing himself quickly. *By the way, you might actually want
some of the sorcery types going along. The Borg probably won't be able
to adapt to them.* Roland smiles. *The best way _I've_ found to mess
with a communal 'adaptoid' race is to cut off their connection with
the mother brain and start feeding them false data. The Ultimate
Anti-Rutabaga Gun Field doesn't help much against lightning bolts.
   *Meanwhile, the rest of the 'big guns' will look for other targets,
while the insertion team consults with the locals. Unless something
else comes up.* Roland sends a 8^) through the link. *Then again,
doesn't it always?*

><OOC: Nemo's species could have gone the way of the Borg, or even
> worse. And he knows it. He'd rather not kill them, partly because
> they don't have "free will" and partly because there's chance of
> heading them back onto the path to transendence whether it be the
> route his species took, Spider's "The Mind" or any of the myriad
> other possibilities.

(OOC: Roland prefers _never_ to kill sentients. Individual Borg
sentience is dependent on the original species, but better safe than
sorry.)
===========================

Date: Sun, 1 Mar 1998 01:04:42 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: It's too quiet

On Sun, 1 Mar 1998 03:59:30 EST In Message # 00002905
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001118 Dane0R0A said:

<<Roland wrote:
   *Meanwhile, the rest of the 'big guns' will look for other targets,
while the insertion team consults with the locals. Unless something
else comes up.* Roland sends a 8^) through the link. *Then again,
doesn't it always?*
  >>
Armagedon says "Complying. Fire!" The tops of the missile silos snap
open, and the missiles launch a micro second later. The missiles rise
at over 100 gravities acceleration (no, no flamming rockets). They are
barely 100 meters in the air when they "jump" through hyperspace. The
Earth shudders slightly (3.1 on the Richter scale) to the five
hyperspace jumps from deep in its gravity well. One tic of the cosmic
clock later the five missiles return to normal space, less than 100
meters in front of, respectively, five grey ships, inbound toward
Earth. The missiles each detonate, in a directed fashion, creating 5
beams of energy, 5 feet across, hotter than the hottest part of a
blue-white giant star, directly at the center (of each) grey ship.
===========================

Date: Sun, 1 Mar 1998 09:36:39 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: It's too quiet

On Sun, 01 Mar 1998 09:33:12 In Message # 00002906
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001119 Morgan said:

>On Sun, 1 Mar 1998 03:59:30 EST In Message # 00002905
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001118 Dane0R0A said:
>
>Armagedon says "Complying. Fire!" The tops of the missile silos snap
>open, and the missiles launch a micro second later. The missiles rise
>at over 100 gravities acceleration (no, no flamming rockets). They
>are barely 100 meters in the air when they "jump" through hyperspace.
>The Earth shudders slightly (3.1 on the Richter scale) to the five
>hyperspace jumps from deep in its gravity well. One tic of the cosmic
>clock later the five missiles return to normal space, less than 100
>meters in front of, respectively, five grey ships, inbound toward
>Earth. The missiles each detonate, in a directed fashion, creating 5
>beams of energy, 5 feet across, hotter than the hottest part of a
>blue-white giant star, directly at the center (of each) grey ship.

   Roland sighs. *Your dedication is... commendable...Armagedon, but
looking for targets and _shooting_ at them are two different things.
If the Greys didn't have a lock on us before, they do now.* He shrugs.
*Which, I suppose, was inevitable. We now need an overhead defensive
field to match the perimiter. If they're going to know we're here, we
might as well make as public a presence as possible.*
===========================

Date: Sun, 1 Mar 1998 11:05:44 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: It's too quiet

On Sun, 1 Mar 1998 06:39:21 PST In Message # 00002907
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001120 Nemo said:

>    *Not that it's likely, but let me know if you need backup,*
> Roland sends, composing himself quickly. *By the way, you might
> actually want some of the sorcery types going along. The Borg
> probably won't be able to adapt to them.*

/That is a thought. Precautions never hurt./

> Roland smiles. *The best way _I've_ found to mess with a communal
> 'adaptoid' race is to cut off their connection with the mother brain
> and start feeding them false data. The Ultimate Anti-Rutabaga Gun
> Field doesn't help much against lightning bolts.

/My preferred method of dealing with Borg is to let them assimilate
me. Then when they discover that they've bitten off more than they can
chew, I explain their options./

The above is acompanied by an image of a small dog that having *chased
a deisel ocomotive, has now *caught* it. The dog's expression os a
definite "*Now* what do I do?" look.

/They are unusualy receptive in such situations./

Nemo grins.

/Melissa, Grep? Any suggestions or questions? Here are the locations
of the Borg groups.../

Nemo sends a "map" of the city with the locations clearly marked.
===========================

Date: Sun, 1 Mar 1998 21:35:28 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: It's too quiet

On Sun, 1 Mar 1998 23:24:29 -0600 In Message # 00002908
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001121 Michael Jon Knight said:

<OOC: Sorry folks, been down with a bad sore throat. Replys may be a
bit slow for a bit.>

>On Sun, 1 Mar 1998 06:39:21 PST In Message # 00002907
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001120 Nemo said:
>
>Nemo grins.
>
>/Melissa, Grep? Any suggestions or questions? Here are the locations
> of the Borg groups.../
>
>Nemo sends a "map" of the city with the locations clearly marked.

Knytt starts to send a reply when Melissa and Grep take the words out
of his mind, so to speak.

/We have several suggestions in fact,/ they send, /Grandmother may
prove useful in converting or at least disabling the Borg. Borg
nanoprobes are about the same size as our nanites. Grandmother's, on
the other hand, are far smaller and may be useful in overwhelming the
nanoprobes. Second, some of our telepathic members would be useful in
disconnecting the Borg from their Collective. Those who can block out
the "voice" of the Queen in particular. Third, as effective as magic
might be, simple projectile weapons and other forms of physical
weapons, swords and such, are quite effective against the Borg. Energy
weapons are not effective due to forcefields, but a bullet can easily
pass through. Assuming other methods are not effective. Just be
certain that the Borg is quite dead before you stop shooting, as the
Collective can heal quite a bit of damage on its own./

Knytt smiles, /The Borg are a pet project of mine. I try and keep
up-to-date on all the information in the Starfleet databases. And a
few sources that won't make it back to the Federation's space for some
time. The twins have obviously been reading my notes./

/Morbid curiousity./ the girl AI's send. /Also, these Borg -gated- in?
That is not a Borg technology. We imagine these are not quite the same
Borg we know about...Be prepared for surprises./
===========================

Date: Sun, 1 Mar 1998 22:06:41 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: It's too quiet

On Mon, 2 Mar 1998 00:38:52 EST In Message # 00002909
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001122 Dane0R0A said:

<< Roland Wrote:
    Roland sighs. *Your dedication is...commendable...Armagedon, but
looking for targets and _shooting_ at them are two different things.
If the Greys didn't have a lock on us before, they do now.* He shrugs.
*Which, I suppose, was inevitable. We now need an overhead defensive
field to match the perimiter. If they're going to know we're here, we
might as well make as public a presence as possible.*
  >>
"The shields do cover above. There is a hemisphere of protective
shielding which will extend downward, if the enemy tries to dig under.
Weapons fired from inside can pass it, any member of the CAoL can pass
it, any being in the presense of a CAoL member can pass it. Anything
else will be opposed both by the weaponry, and the shielding. The
shielding is tied into the weaponry sensors, and will generate
adequate, temporary, openings for those I mentioned. Walls are useless
against an opponent that flies." Armagedon replies. "Targets are to be
destroyed" he continues.
===========================

Date: Mon, 2 Mar 1998 19:07:05 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Aae:First contact

On Mon, 2 Mar 1998 20:22:32 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002910
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001123 Driscoll said:

 (Don't have my map fo London handy so I'm not getting specific with
placement of any of this I'll let Gareth put it where he likes)

 The Borg squad surveys the street around them through enhanced sensor
systems. The street appears deserted but the heat traces and other
signs of humans betray their presense nearby. The Borg process the
information they take in but do not find the traces of the Army of
Light htey are looking for, so their second directive kicks in.
 The group splits. Six Borg head towards a building where they detect
a small group of humans hiding, while the other six continue down the
street searchign as they go for their prey.
 "Resistance is Futile. We are Borg, prepare to be assimilated into
the collective." challenges one of the first six. One of hte humans
pops up from his hiding spot and begins hosing the Borg with bullets
from a sub machinegun. Two borg fall and another is wounded, but then
the fields about the Borg change and the bullets flatten and sizzle
against an invisible barrier.
 The Rebel changes magazines and tries again while another prepares a
grenade and a third tries to call in their find and get help. The
remaining four Borg approach oblivious to the weapons fired at them,
but raising their own. The grenade is thrown but a ball of tumbling
lightning fired from one of the Borg intercepts it in mid air over the
rebels exploding it and showering them in shrapnel.
 The rebels try to run for it but as they rise into view, another Borg
fires rapidly. Seeming balls for light expand rapidly as they close in
on the fleeing humans until the charged stun nets entangle them and
bring them all to the ground.
 From another possition a lone Rebel aims his rocketlauncher and
fires. The WP rocket launches and races at the Borg exploding and
spreading its caustic payload all over the remaining four leaving them
to burn and smoulder.
 The remaining six turn and in unison air their weapons at the
building where the rebel is hiding. Plasma bursts, lasers, and phasers
lance into the building with great ferocity cuasing the entire
building to collapse in on itself wiht the poor man inside still.
 Then the six go to collect the captured humans and an x-window opens
up for them and a fresh dozen comes out.
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 13:39:47 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:First contact

On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 15:01:25 -0600 In Message # 00002911
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001124 Michael Jon Knight said:

Melissa sends, /I am going to do some recon near one of these borg
groups. I'll be right back./ She vanishes quietly, simply fading out
of sight.

>On Mon, 2 Mar 1998 20:22:32 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002910
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001123 Driscoll said:
<snip>
> "Resistance is Futile. We are Borg, prepare to be assimilated into
>the collective." challenges one of the first six. One of hte humans
>pops up from his hiding spot and begins hosing the Borg with bullets
>from a sub machinegun. Two borg fall and another is wounded, but then
>the fields about the Borg change and the bullets flatten and sizzle
>against an invisible barrier.

Melissa fades in inside a building near where the humans are hiding,
though out of their sight. Her presense is cloaked even from Borg
sensors. She notices a lone human with a rocket launcher in her
building and stays out of sight.

> The Rebel changes magazines and tries again while another prepares a
>grenade and a third tries to call in their find and get help. The
>remaining four Borg approach oblivious to the weapons fired at them,
>but raising their own. The grenade is thrown but a ball of tumbling
>lightning fired from one of the Borg intercepts it in mid air over
>the rebels exploding it and showering them in shrapnel.

/The Borg have adapted to bullets. And they have some weapons I do not
recognize./ Melissa sends what she is seeing through the link.

> From another possition a lone Rebel aims his rocketlauncher and
>fires. The WP rocket launches and races at the Borg exploding and
>spreading its caustic payload all over the remaining four leaving
>them to burn and smoulder.

/Rocket launchers still seem to work./

> The remaining six turn and in unison air their weapons at the
>building where the rebel is hiding. Plasma bursts, lasers, and
>phasers lance into the building with great ferocity cuasing the
>entire building to collapse in on itself wiht the poor man inside
>still.

/Uh oh./ Melissa sends as the building collapses in on her.

> Then the six go to collect the captured humans and an x-window opens
>up for them and a fresh dozen comes out.

A cloud of 250 yellow finches sped randomly out of the wreckage,
obviously disturbed from their roosts. They chirped furiously.

/Damn Borg,/ Melissa sends as her view of the Borg shifts between a
multitude of aerial images. /Oh, sis, catch. No sense letting them
assimilate this./

Grep holds out her free hand and Melissa's gun materializes in it. Not
long after, yellow finches start materializing nearby, converging on
one spot to form a mass of flapping yellow wings which shift into the
form of Melissa in her Men in Black suit.

/Anyone care to see if they can adapt to magic as well?/ Melissa sends
with a scowl.
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 15:41:06 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:First contact

On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 18:19:13 -0500 (EST) In Message # 00002912
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001125 Shadow <pookie> said:

> On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 15:01:25 -0600 In Message # 00002911
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001124 Michael Jon Knight said:
>
> /Damn Borg,/ Melissa sends as her view of the Borg shifts between a
> multitude of aerial images. /Oh, sis, catch. No sense letting them
> assimilate this./

Rhiannon scowls and mutters something under her breath.

> /Anyone care to see if they can adapt to magic as well?/ Melissa
> sends with a scowl.

/Sure. I'll go play target and see what they've got./ Rhiannon
replies. Rhiannon disappears in a whirlwind of fire, reappearing 200
yards away from the borg. She waits a moment to be sure she's got
their attention, then extends her sword straight out at the borg. "You
will leave this place or suffer the consequences." Lighting cracks
down from the sky around the borg. She also emits an energy spike into
the sky. /That should send some dials turning in the Grey's
watchposts. Let thy enemies fight each other, then attack./
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 16:09:15 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:First contact

On Tue, 03 Mar 1998 15:38:03 In Message # 00002913
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001126 Morgan said:

>On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 15:01:25 -0600 In Message # 00002911
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001124 Michael Jon Knight said:
>
>/Anyone care to see if they can adapt to magic as well?/ Melissa
>sends with a scowl.

<*I'll take a piece of that action,*> Morgan sends. She give Roland a
quick kiss on the check, sends, <*Be right back, love,*> and ports to
the vicinity of the third group of Borg. <OOC: Melissa got one,
Rhiannon got the second, right?>

She watches them from cover for a moment, considering her options.
<*Roland, as near as I can tell the only mind in these things is the
collective. Whatever was there originally has long since been
subsumed.*>

<*When I come from, groups of people working closely together were
known as 'groves'. That gives me an idea,*> she thinks 'aloud'. She
reaches out and locates what's left of the life within the cyberware,
and the remaining flesh becomes wood. Needless to say, the Borg come
to a stand-still.

<*Hmmm,*> she ponders, <*That still leaves them for the others to come
scavenge.*> With some quick TK, she knocks the group together into a
pile and, still from a safe distance, sets the wooden components on
fire. Wiring melts, coolants sizzle, and some of the metal components
melt out of shape as the blaze takes hold. Maintaining cover and
scanning the area on every 'frequency' she's able, Morgan watches to
make sure the conflagration doesn't get out of control.
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 17:35:41 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:First contact

On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 17:30:09 -0600 In Message # 00002916
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001129 Michael Jon Knight said:

>On Tue, 03 Mar 1998 15:38:03 In Message # 00002913
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001126 Morgan said:
>
>>On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 15:01:25 -0600 In Message # 00002911
>> In alt.callahans Post # 00001124 Michael Jon Knight said:
>>
>>/Anyone care to see if they can adapt to magic as well?/ Melissa
>>sends with a scowl.
>
><*I'll take a piece of that action,*> Morgan sends. She give Roland a
>quick kiss on the check, sends, <*Be right back, love,*> and ports to
>the vicinity of the third group of Borg. <OOC: Melissa got one,
>Rhiannon got the second, right?>

<OOC: Well, Melissa spied on a group now totaling 18 Borg, plus any
new 'recruits'.>

>She watches them from cover for a moment, considering her options.
><*Roland, as near as I can tell the only mind in these things is the
>collective. Whatever was there originally has long since been
>subsumed.*>

Melissa suddenly smiles. /Ooo! Idea! C'mon, sis. Gonna need some
backup if this doesn't work./ The twins teleport out, returning to the
first group of Borg, this time appearing in the middle of the street.

><*When I come from, groups of people working closely together were
>known as 'groves'. That gives me an idea,*> she thinks 'aloud'. She
>reaches out and locates what's left of the life within the cyberware,
>and the remaining flesh becomes wood. Needless to say, the Borg come
>to a stand-still.

Melissa giggles, /That's getting to the root of the problem./ The Borg
quickly notice them. Marching toward them, the Borg state "We are the
Borg..."

The twins just grin at each other. "Uh huh..."

><*Hmmm,*> she ponders, <*That still leaves them for the others to
>come scavenge.*> With some quick TK, she knocks the group together
>into a pile and, still from a safe distance, sets the wooden
>components on fire. Wiring melts, coolants sizzle, and some of the
>metal components melt out of shape as the blaze takes hold.
>Maintaining cover and scanning the area on every 'frequency' she's
>able, Morgan watches to make sure the conflagration doesn't get out
>of control.

"Resistance is fu-fu-fu-futile." The Borg stutter, the group's
movements becoming a bit more jerky. "You will
b-b-b-b-b-b-b-b-b-b-b-b-beeeee...."

Melissa folds her arms. "Go on, say it."

"Fashionable." The Borg lisps. As the twins giggle, the Borg turn on
each other. "Ohmigod! That ensemb is soooo, like, gag me! Basic black
is toootally timeless, sweetie, but you HAVE to accessorize!"

As 18 Borg start giving each other fashion tips, Melissa sends /Nemo,
if you want this bunch, they are yours. We can release them back to
the Collective if you would rather deal with that, but it isn't a Borg
Queen you'll be talking with, some hackerwannabe has totally trashed
what used to be some elegant code./

<OOC: I doubt that the Controller would leave a calling card, but if
the twins find anything leading back to him, let me know, Gamer.>
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 20:09:32 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: First Contact

On 4 Mar 98 02:31:02 GMT In Message # 00002917
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001130 "Dame Ziactrice Keenan" said:

Two black clothed individuals on a nearby London rooftop watch the
Borg meet CAoLers with predictably poor fortunes for the initial
groups of Borg. Well, one watches that. The other, female plainly by
the tightness of the Chinese spilt dress over pantaloons, is scanning
the other nearby buildings and ether very cautiously.

Either may be detected if someone looks closely that way, or
psionically probes (carefully) that particular rooftop. They have
shielded themselves, but not well enough to conceal themselves
completely from a determined and thorough master psionicist. (Which
would likely draw attention more than their simpler 'concealment'.)

During the fire fight, magical blaze, and lightning crashes, the man
comments softly to the woman who stands nearly back to back with him
on the buildings corner, "See anything yet? I see a lot of power being
thrown about, but not so much as to endanger this Shadow - despite
omens to the contrary."

The petite woman (5'4" tops) shrugs and keeps scanning, hesitating
several times, and scanning several points with absolute attention.
And seemingly absolute trust that the man watching her back is ample
guard against the incredible battle behind her back. She wears no
visible weapons, but the man does have a sleekly black ninja-to
strapped like a six-gun to a thigh and his waist.
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 20:41:42 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:First contact

On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 21:57:26 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002918
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001131 Driscoll said:

> On Tue, 03 Mar 1998 15:38:03 In Message # 00002913
>  In alt.callahans Post # 00001126 Morgan said:
>
> <*Hmmm,*> she ponders, <*That still leaves them for the others to
> come scavenge.*> With some quick TK, she knocks the group together
> into a pile and, still from a safe distance, sets the wooden
> components on fire. Wiring melts, coolants sizzle, and some of the
> metal components melt out of shape as the blaze takes hold.
> Maintaining cover and scanning the area on every 'frequency' she's
> able, Morgan watches to make sure the conflagration doesn't get out
> of control.

 The loss of the Borg activate a deadman directive The Controller
placed in his scouts. from one of them a small piece of aparent metal
falls off, sprouts legs and scuttles away into a crack. (OK he's
ripping for from Drisonel now I admit it. hehehehe) A quick EMF check
notes a strangely modulated subspace code. "12C2001-125559991920" (Yes
that DOES have an actual meaning in perverted DOC 10 code if anyone
wants to ask privately. heheheheh)
 A few minutes later (I dunno if Morgan sticks around this long) an
X-window opens up and at least 50 Borg exit it. One moves towards the
smouldering pile and the spidroid moves to it and attaches itself to
the Borg's cybernetics and transmits it's "black box" information. The
other Borg meanwhile take up a defensive perimeter, a couple dozen
standing guard in the street while the rest move into nearby buildings
clearing them room by room and shooting anything that lives.
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 21:14:43 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:First contact

On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 22:17:26 -0700 (MST) In Message # 00002920
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001133 Driscoll said:

On Tue, 3 Mar 1998, Shadow wrote:
> /Sure. I'll go play target and see what they've got./ Rhiannon
> replies. Rhiannon disappears in a whirlwind of fire, reappearing 200
> yards away from the borg. She waits a moment to be sure she's got
> their attention, then extends her sword straight out at the borg.
> "You will leave this place or suffer the consequences." Lighting
> cracks down from the sky around the borg. She also emits an energy
> spike into the sky. /That should send some dials turning in the
> Grey's watchposts. Let thy enemies fight each other, then attack./

 Half of the Borg are hit by the lightning and destroyed but the
others adapt their shielding to dispurse the lightning around them.
The remaining six then begin firing their energy weapons at Rhiannon
with dubious effectiveness against her. But while they are firing, one
also launches a tiny metal ball that hits the ground near Rhiannon's
feet. It then sprouts legs and skitters quickly towards her boot and
attaches itself there.
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 21:37:42 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:First contact

On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 23:25:41 -0600 In Message # 00002921
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001134 Michael Jon Knight said:

<OOC: Oops, just noticed an error on my part. It looks Like Rhiannon
was playing with the same Borg as Melissa was, so lets just have the
twins go for the second group, simce Morgan has called the third
already.>

>On Tue, 3 Mar 1998 17:30:09 -0600 In Message # 00002916
> In alt.callahans Post # 00001129 Michael Jon Knight said:
<snip>
>Melissa suddenly smiles. /Ooo! Idea! C'mon, sis. Gonna need some
>backup if this doesn't work./ The twins teleport out, returning to
>the first group
     ^^^^^
     third

>of Borg, this time appearing in the middle of the street.
<snip>
>
>As 18 Borg start giving each other fashion tips, Melissa sends /Nemo,
    ^^
    12 actually
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 22:42:14 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: AAE IV: First contact

On Wed, 4 Mar 1998 00:02:31 -0600 In Message # 00002922
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001135 "Ziactrice Keenan" said:

The unknown (and as yet, unnoticed) man (or ninja?) on the anonymous
London rooftop observes the Borg destruction and subsequent flood of
reinforcements. "You were right. They're running a pyramid scheme.
Either eventual destruction, or at worst, much intelligence.
Apparently, collateral damage to this place is not a consideration,
Ghost. Seems they're doing a bit of Snark Hunt now, though. We'll have
to move."

"Can't you shut down those damn portals or whatever they are in this
area?" The woman returns very softly, still scanning intently, "I
can't see any of the Black Hat observers, yet."

"No, and you know it. This Shadow is not receptive, to that. Let's see
if we can't balance things out a bit, without letting our cover get
blown wide open, even literally." He stops, concentrating a moment,
then walks off, the woman trailing him wordlessly, but she lets the
scope fall from her face to trot along. "I've found us a safe 'path'
out; I've decided it's not probable that the Borg will be searching
along our particular route as we pass."

"But the people?"
"When we get time to do something, we can try. Think of a good
probability that we can influence to kill the Borgs, doing such damage
as the rest can't profit from their intelligence gathering? It's got
to seem natural, though. Would rather use our telepathy. Are you SURE
they'd hear us?"
"Yes, Ja- ... Ninja, they would, I think, certainly the White side, if
not the Blacks. We're too close, and too powerful if we actually
thought at each other, we couldn't stay... lost in the noise, even of
THIS many people."

The young woman interrupts herself, as they've run out of the
immediate Borg 'drag-net' area, and the man keeps watch back and she
watches forwards. "I've got it. The Gunpowder Plot. Make it November
the Fifth, Ninja. Guy Fawkes day, concentrate with me. Then most
everyone will be out at the bonfires, or the churches, even this late.
And a downtown business district like these, well, it WOULD be
deserted. Holiday, and all. People going home to their families,
children. After all... we didn't KNOW what day it was.. it could
EASILY be that day. It WAS cold up there." She sounds extremely
reasonable, and extremely concentrated. Almost as if she expects
reality to conform to her opinion, should she believe in it with
enough conviction.

The man says, going along with her, also concentrating, "Yes, that
sounds very probable. But then we've still got the Borg." "We should
leave the Borg alone. If we act on them, we'll be taken as part of the
White's side." "So, you're going to save this place from the ravages
of their battling without either side knowing about you? Ambitious
scheming, even for you, Ghost."
The woman nods, and keeps watch for further developments, "Let's go to
the bells' tower on Big Ben. We can use long views, and the noise
might discourage a psi, slightly." "You just want to watch some more."
He obliges, however, and pulls forth a set of Tarot-sized cards. "Well
prepared for this Shadow, I see." "No, local artist liked my form. I
posed. He got sketches. I got drawings to make Trumps from."

The Ghost and the Ninja through London's misty night streets.
===========================

Date: Tue, 3 Mar 1998 22:42:25 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: Aae:First contact

On Wed, 4 Mar 1998 01:21:37 EST In Message # 00002923
 In alt.callahans Post # 00001136 Dane0R0A said:

<< Driscoll wrote:
  The loss of the Borg activate a deadman directive The Controller
placed in his scouts. from one of them a small piece of aparent metal
falls off, sprouts legs and scuttles away into a crack. (OK he's
ripping for from Drisonel now I admit it. hehehehe) A quick EMF check
notes a strangely modulated subspace code. "12C2001-125559991920" (Yes
that DOES have an actual meaning in perverted DOC 10 code if anyone
wants to ask privately. heheheheh)
  >>

Armagedon says, "I just detected a subspace transmition from <OOC:
where ever the heck the spider is>. Contents '12C2001-125559991920',
Nemo, can you decipher it? If you can't I will work to decode it."

<<  A few minutes later (I dunno if Morgan sticks around this long) an
X-window opens up and at least 50 Borg exit it. One moves towards the
smouldering pile and the spidroid moves to it and attaches itself to
the Borg's cybernetics and transmits it's "black box" information. The
other Borg meanwhile take up a defensive perimeter, a couple dozen
standing guard in the street while the rest move into nearby buildings
clearing them room by room and shooting anything that lives.
  >>
"Spacial anomaly detected at or near the same location. Incomming."
Armagedon warns.
===========================