Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 6 Part 1 - Chapter 11 Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 17:15:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Meanwhile, back at the Place... On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 13:27:16 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007645 >On Mon, 11 Oct 1999 20:20:05 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007611 > > "But," Tink concludes, "Seeing as they now would appear to be a >different group, I think Grumpa would be very happy to know we had >helped them get back to Earth. So, I'm wanting to tell that to the >Army of Light, but I can't send that far on the mini-lens. Could you >please pass the word on for me?" "Certainly. An in the meantime, I seem to recall that you said you think you can beat me at . Let's find out." ^Dhryclanc? Tink has some important info about the Robinsons {insert story}. Please pass it on to the rest of the group.^ ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 17:15:46 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: House Phoenix/Greywolf On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 13:33:26 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007646 >>On Sat, 09 Oct '99 Morgan and/or Roland Said >> >>>Nemo Said >>> >>>> SkyeFire Said >>>> >>>>"I'm afraid we're already *in* Paradox Alley, Uncle Nemo," Roger >>>>replies, one corner of his mouth twitching oddly. "I'm not a >>>>twin." >>> >>>"It has yet to be established whether or not you have or had >>>younger siblings. And don't even *think* about telling us." Oops! Make that *older* siblings. As in "born before he was". >>>sister? I was figuring that it was possible that the twins were born *first*. ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 17:15:55 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 13:43:45 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007647 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 01:37:45 -0400 >Zia Said As CAoL Message # 00007619 > >"Nemo, I think you wanted to pool efforts on the Second Group's >objective, correct? I believe I can accomplish what you had in mind, >although I'll need a way to computer-fast change Trump cards..." "Yes. Do you need to create the cards, or can you 'energize' cards drawn by someone else?" "If the former, the only solutions I can see are combo of direct neural interface and speeding up time around you. If the latter, I can 'draw' virtually instantaneously." ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 17:16:00 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Communications Glitches On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 13:51:05 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007648 >On Mon, 11 Oct 1999 23:55:29 -0700 >Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00007623 > >Harlock sighs. "While I believe your analogy to be flawed at some >level, I tire of arguing the case. Instead, I shall point out that >most people will not abandon a system they know to be reliable just >because a new system has come along. The novelty-seekers will, of >course--but to get the _masses_ to abandon the Ansible, we need not >only provide a replacement, but also prove the replacement is better. >An the Ansible remain reliable, I do not see how we could prove our >point." "Consider that due to the cost of a 'link' from the guild, conventional, *tappable & *traceable* technology has to be used between most consumers and the links. And they pay for use of bothe the conventional network, and the use of the links between the conventional networks." "With the new technology, anyone can link directly to anyone else using it. The only cost is the initial cost of the unit, and the occasional battery." "This makes cost and privacy prime selling points of the new tech." ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 17:57:18 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On 10-12-1999 at 17:54:57 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007649 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 16:16:53 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007641 > > William is about to ask Nemisis a question when he gets a good >look in some of the rooms of the castle and is stopped in his tracks. >Agape at the multitude of technologies before him, he is swept along >with the crowd until he finds himself ... > Will nods slowly, his eyes starting to glaze over from >information overload, or the potential information he could so easily >acquire. > "I'd ask," he says in a daze, "But I wouldn't know where to >begin." > future-tech, is all based on 1960-something earth's. This is the >first time he's even encountered a GUI, let alone an entire room >designed to be a giant touchscreen. The world's he's visited before >were 60's TV SF or earlier in technology. Arnaska, the frog character >who had met Will before he turned villian in some of the side stories >I've told, had 30's style SF tech for the most part.> "There is no hurry, As you figure the questions out, I will see to the Answers, If I have them or can get them." > "I see why you wanted help with all this." John says quietly, >"You come in here to see how we got here and if they can help us get >back home with some sort of directions on technology, and realize >it's all here if you just knew what to ask for." > Will nodded, then called out, "Uhm, Nemisis, can you explain how >we got here while we look around and see if maybe we can help you in >trade for some... well, I'm not sure what to ask for, but we're >looking for a way back to our earth and had hoped, rather more >strongly now, you or your friends might know a way to get us there." "Help is always welcome, But You need not Trade for ours, That is yours for the Asking." "I do not know any good way of saying this, So I will just have to Tell it, We are not in the universe where we first met, That Universe was Destroyed completely, Some Fifteen Years after our encounter. By a conflict between powers that we could not prevent, Please understand it was not our doing, And we would have prevented it if we could. It was an effect similar to an Imbalanced gateway, To An Antimatter Universe. Due to your association with us, Certain precaution we had taken, were able to identify you in the wave front of the destruction, and Pull you Clear... But because it was unexpected, We did not know you were here, You were held in a time stasis for several years, Until our arrival shut it down." "I do not now if that was your Native Universe." Nemisis goes on to tell of Lord Fuzzy's Final Battle, FailSafe's Revelations, and The Current Situation... "My observations to date, Indicate that either or both of two situations are possible, Even likely..." "Your situation may have caused your world to be recreated, during the Reset, This will definitely be so if that was not your native universe, A percentage possibly a majority of the population of your world, May have been transferred to a Planet within the Matrix Cosm." ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 18:00:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:15:23 -0700 Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007650 >On Mon, 11 Oct 1999 18:42:08 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007614 > >>On 10-11-1999 at 12:52:15 >>Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007606 >> >>Group Three: >> Artifact: The Cosmic Engineer >> Direction and Timing: Unknown >> Scouting Team: Nemisis, >> Unknown > > "I'll join that last group," Eric says, his voice more >businesslike than dry. "I don't think that I'll be able to help much >in the scheming against the Ansible Guild, and while the Paradox >mages have to deal with doesn't concern me, I suspect a plain old >temporal paradox could wipe me out as quickly as the next mortal. >This Cosmic Engineer device, however, sounds like it requires a >certain amount of combat savvy and flexibility." He smiles. It's not >a pleasant smile. "That sounds like my department." Stranger enters from the other side of the room, his newly produced changeling net in an army poncho roll on a strap over his shoulder. "Count me in too, the others seem to be covered and I've already been on the Blue Horizon. /Anyone know if the gateway I came through still open?/" He regards Hunter for a second or two before extending his hand. "I'm Stranger." "I guess we'll be needing vacc suits, if we're going onto a spaceship looking for this thing. The armoury should be able to sort that out, I would think." "I'm going to go and, ah, freshen up" he adds, rubbing the growth on his chin. ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 18:00:51 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: FuzzyHome and Questions On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:27:26 -0700 Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007651 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 10:13:43 EDT >SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007627 > >>In a message dated 10/9/99 5:36:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >>oss writes: > >Roger went all legalistic, and Stranger replied: >>"On the other hand, the artifacts, as I understand them, in a sense >>_are_ Fuzzy, rather than simply belonging to him. In which case >>they're claim to ownership is legally closer to slavery." > >Roger nods. "In point of fact, yes. But can we have a *reasonable* >expectation that the current holders would know that? Or figure it >out on their own? If they are unaware, an accusation of slavery would >be....on shaky ground, ethically speaking." "Well, they'll know it once we tell them!" Stranger grinned. >>"Hmmm. Should we openly approach the 'artifact holders' initially? >>Explain the situation and offer an honest trade?" > >Roger sighs. "That's the rub. I would *prefer* that approach, >ethically speaking, but the strategist in me says that that is the >more risky path. A great deal depends on how they are likely to >react. It's just that--" he pauses, looking embarrassed. "Well, >sprock it all, I just don't like explaining to someone after the >fact: 'Well, I was sneaking around behind your back because I didn't >think you'd be reasonable if I approached you openly.' The response, >in my experience, is almost invariably: "Well, you didn't TRY, did >you?!?' I find it unpleasant enough to try to avoid it, whenver >pragmatically possible." His face is showing a definite tinge of >pink, something short of a full blown blush. "I'd agree with that, wholeheartedly. I also think that as a group we are 'diverse' enough to go and ask them without warning them as to the nature of any snatch team should they say 'no'." ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 18:00:58 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:44:45 -0400 Zia Said As CAoL Message # 00007652 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 13:43:45 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007647 > >>On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 01:37:45 -0400 >>Zia Said As CAoL Message # 00007619 >> >>"Nemo, I think you wanted to pool efforts on the Second Group's >>objective, correct? I believe I can accomplish what you had in mind, >>although I'll need a way to computer-fast change Trump cards..." > >"Yes. Do you need to create the cards, or can you 'energize' cards >drawn by someone else?" > >"If the former, the only solutions I can see are combo of direct >neural interface and speeding up time around you. If the latter, I >can 'draw' virtually instantaneously." "The cards have to be drawn by a Symbolized entity, but I have ones for almost everyone except Roger, Rio, and Eric. I will not draw one of any Starspawn, for obvious reasons. Yours is set for the part of you that was Nemo on my home earth - I can draw new ones, but it generally requires at least two days effort to ... make them start working." "I meant the neural interface part. I can 'hold' a Trump open. I can hold more than one Trump open at the same time. But the number I can hold is finite, based on how long I must continue the activity - it's strenuous. If you intend on using the methodology I believe you do, I'll need you to 'organize' the quantity of the ones currently 'cold' in my head, as well as present to my individual attention the Trump required at that instant of time. Of course, there will be a dreadful lag on your end; I have a Lensman grade mind, but it's not a computer. Hopefully, that those two limitations won't invalidate your plan?" "As for time effects on my person, I couldn't advise it without dreadful need. I'm a fifth-dimensional being. When the passage of linear time is .... altered, about me, rather than about the Shadow I'm in, there is an effect much akin to the diffraction of light through a prism, only in lineal time. This can create disturbing events, and actually does become extremely hazardous in a short period durational." She pauses, then admits, "The last time I tried a haste spell, I set myself on fire, from friction against the air just walking. The air had been drastically 'slowed' by the side effects, which worsen exponentially. So, if that becomes needful, we'll have to simply find a faster Shadow, and move our operational theater there, instead of near-loci effects to me." ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:04:47 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Hunter and The Actress On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:39:16 -0400 Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00007655 >On Wed, 06 Oct '99 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said: > >The Bard's grin returns, as roguish as ever. "Besides, it's been too >long since I've played with this thing anyway." With that, he aims >the pistol at the largest remaining fragment of rock left from Rob's >stunt and pulls the trigger. A fist-sized hole appears in the rock. >"'Tis not the sort of thing I would wish to reveal to the people of >my native plane." Harlock glances at something on the grip, then >unfolds some black panels from the side of the pistol, angling them >to face the sun. Dhyrclhanc looks carefully at Harlock's pistol, via the (presumably) still active, "Nemisis Portal". /Excuse me, friend Bard, but is that a Mark V Blaster?/ ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:04:53 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:51:22 -0400 Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00007656 >On Tue, 12 Oct '99 Tech Tonic Said > >"I'm Traveling under my own power of course! Can't stand those >mechanical devices, I'm a merchant not an engineer...." He grumbles >to himself. One wonders what his reaction is going to be when he sees the "Xavier". ;^) ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:04:58 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Communications Glitches On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 22:12:46 -0400 Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00007657 >On 10-12-99 Nemisis Said > >"If that is the Goal, > There is No Difference." > >"Perhaps one day you will explain, > Why that is the goal." #/It appears, Grandmother, that someday either Lord Fuzzy, or I, are going to have to a chat on ethics with you. It is sometimes hard for an organism to learn that the Ends do not *always* justify the Means. However, at present, I believe that this is a lesson the present "Dr. Essex" had learned the value of./# #/Perhaps a conversation on the subject with that Doctor might not be a bad idea./# Dhyrclhanc sends from the Place, via his cyberpsi link to Nemisis. ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:05:02 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: Newcomer On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:24:31 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007658 The golden labrador wagged his tail brightly as the man approached, whining slightly, looking estactic. The man knelt to pet the dog vigorously there in the back yard, soft hands scratching just the right spot behind the ears. "Hello boy, I need a favor from you, okay?" He brushed long blonde bangs out from before his pale blue eyes and whispered in the canine's ear. The dog whined, very agitated by something, looking toward the pet flap set in the kitchen door. His tail quit thumping the ground. The man let him go and the dog bolted through the door into the house, barking all the way. The man stood, brushing a bit of dirt off undyed denim jeans, as there came a Whompf! from the second story back window. He watched calmly as the fire began to leap outside the window, eyes half closed, almost as if half-asleep. Inside, he heard shouts of alarm from the dog's owners and running up the flight of stairs. A baby cried as it was rudely awoken by his mother, while father ushered his young wife and child out the front door, the family pet barking behind them to hurry them out. Father called the Long Island fire department, who came quickly to douse the electrical fire that had started in the sewing room, saving the rest of the house. Later the papers would report 'Dog Saves Family and Home From Fire.' The blonde man walked along the residencial street as fire trucks passed returning to the station. He stopped as a familiar sensation washed over him. A marvelously hopeful feeling. He looked in the direction of its source, further out on the Island. Something good was being planned. Rolling his white shirt sleeves up, he started walking toward the epicenter of the wave. In Callahan's Place, Tink had finished her story to Nemo when the blonde man entered. He didn't draw any attention to himself as he walked over to the bar. He was good looking, sort of a Warren Worthington type to the X-men fans in the place, minus wings and blue skin. Tom Hauptmann walked down to the man to get his order, noting to himself the air of quiet serenity about the newcomer. "What'll you have?" Tom asked, adding "Every drink's a dollar, we only accept singles, and you get fifty cents back if you don't exercise the option to make a toast on the chalk line and toss your empty into the fireplace there. There's a gas station across the street if you don't have any singles." The man nodded and dug in a pocket, producing a gold coin. "I only have a sheckel, will this be acceptable? I don't think they'll make change across the street." Tom Hauptmann blinked, and looked closely at the coin. Tom breathed, "That'll cover the whole bar and then some." The blonde man meanwhile looked down the bar at the Free Lunch. He smiled. "If you wouldn't mind, would you be willing to consider the rest a donation? Thus we shall refute TANSTAAFL." Tom nodded with a smile, "Works for me. So, what can I get you?" "A glass of wine, and if you don't mind, to partake of the current Free Lunch." Tom nodded and got the wine. The blonde man moved down toward the plate, and looked around, chewing on a corned beef sandwich as the barkeep came back with the glass. "Thank you, Tom." "You're welcome," Tom replied, then went to help another customer. As he was pouring a beer, he realized he hadn't given the man his name. The blonde sat in silence until he finished his food and drink, picked up a matchbook, then rose with his empty glass and walked to the chalk line. "To hope," he said simply, and tossed his glass into the fireplace. Then he turned and walked through the X-window leading to the Dyson Sphere, calling over his shoulder, "Alaha minokhoon." Tom was about to warn the man away, but stopped and blinked, recognizing the Aramaic, then he replied in English, "God be with you, as well." He looked at the coin, suddenly wondering if maybe He wasn't already... -- Seth Hope ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:11:23 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Quantum magic? On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 19:56:27 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007659 >On Mon, 11 Oct 1999 23:55:11 -0700 >Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00007621 > >Harlock grins. "Remind me to tell you some time what happened to the >Gnomes of Gellar's Creek. So this quantum magic of yours is reliable? >Have you heard of my proposal to glitch the Ansible system? I know a >spell that would work, but it would need to be adapted to modern >technology, and it sounds like you could help me with the >adaptation." "I might be able to help, but I'd need both ends of an ansible for at least thirty minutes. That way, I can scan them to see if they're aligned similarly to the way that the 'split photon' theory works. If not, there are a few other spells I know of that may be useful." "Actually, if I can get that before we leave, I may work with the group going after the Cosmic Engineer. I have a vacc suit of my own, just in case the castle can't supply enough of them." ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:05:01 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 23:21:31 EDT Dane0R0A Said As CAoL Message # 00007662 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007641 > Will nodded, then called out, "Uhm, Nemisis, can you explain how >we got here while we look around and see if maybe we can help you in >trade for some... well, I'm not sure what to ask for, but we're >looking for a way back to our earth and had hoped, rather more >strongly now, you or your friends might know a way to get us there." *"Getting you home, will not be a problem. The problem will be identifying which universe you came from in the first place. If Nemisis can't help you there, I'll see if Oracle will."* Aurora offers. ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:05:11 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: House Phoenix/Greywolf On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:19:24 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007663 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 10:13:47 EDT >SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007628 > >>In a message dated 10/9/99 11:08:06 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >>kal-el writes: >> >>"When this is all over, I may introduce you to Cas and Pol Stone. >>Along with Laz and Lor Smith. The fireworks should be most >>entertaining." > >Roger grins. "Been there, done that, got the T-shirt. In fact, I even >took Uncle Rob with me." He blinks at Rob. "Oops, sorry, wrong Rob. I >meant Uncle Rob 'Heinlein,' not Nishikawa..." (OOC: Assuming this is in the Place...) Roland practically turns green with envy. "You met Heinlein?! Nass, he died before I Erupted." His eyes narrow. "How...I don't think I want to know." ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 22:05:27 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Decisions, Decisions On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:36:33 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007664 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 10:14:00 EDT >SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007631 > >>In a message dated 10/10/99 9:40:22 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >>caprice writes: >> >>Legion sighs, "I feel like I'm kicking a puppy... but we cannot >>afford letting -that- little one tag along with us. I believe I can >>send him gently on his way, after all this is -not- his side of >>reality. Unless you would rather handle him yourself, Roger." > >"Huh? Handle who--?" Roger looks totally at sea, then manages to >"follow" Legion's line of glare and takes a closer look into himself. >"What the-! Well, I'll be...never even noticed him. C'mon, Ticker, >fish yourself out of there...no, dammit, you big sissy, I'm NOT going >to to hurt you! Sorry, sorry, didn't mean to yell. C'mon, that's a >good boy...." It's clear that Roger shares Legion's visualization of >Tick-Tock...the "image" he gives to the CS now sitting metphorically >on his hand looks just like a young puppy who looks rather afraid. >Roger raises an automatic hand to stroke its head, and the 'puppy' >cringes away visibly. >"What!? That's...Ticker, I'd never do anything to you -- huh. Legion, >maybe you'd better take him...he seems to be *afraid* of me, but I >haven't got a clue why." Tiktok GLARES at Roger, the mental image shifting briefly from dog to cat; sort of a 'I am not EITHER scared!' reaction, giving an impression of almost hissing, but not quite. >>Legion, for a reason she really doesn't understand, actually feels >>sorry for the little thing. But these dimensions are no where NEAR >>the WoD-verse(s), and it doesn't belong here. It's kinda like a lost >>puppy..one about to start chewing on Roger's ankles, but a lost >>puppy still. Tiktok looks at Legion, the impression it gives back to being a confused-but-loyal dog. Given that it's been busted, now, and how easily Roger pulled it out, it sort of skulks off, giving Roger a 'you'd better behave, or I'll chew your ankles down to the bone' look, and returns to wherever Paradox spirits go. Something else seems to glare for a moment, but then it's gone; too quick for anything more than an impression. ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 22:05:33 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 23:50:42 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007665 >On 10-12-1999 at 17:54:57 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007649 > >>On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 16:16:53 -0500 (CDT) >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007641 >> >> >future-tech, is all based on 1960-something earth's. This is the >>first time he's even encountered a GUI, let alone an entire room >>designed to be a giant touchscreen. The world's he's visited before >>were 60's TV SF or earlier in technology. Arnaska, the frog >>character who had met Will before he turned villian in some of the >>side stories I've told, had 30's style SF tech for the most part.> > > His Entire world could not supplied the Computer processing, > To run this room, we haven't activated any of the HoloDisplays.> > >"There is no hurry, > As you figure the questions out, > I will see to the Answers, > If I have them or can get them." Will nods his thinks, still marveling at the scene around him. He traced a square on the wall idly, then watched it change into a display prompting for user imput. "I'd like a map of this place," he said finally, having thought of a safe, general request that was likely to get results he could test against fact easily, then stifled a slight chuckle as one came up. "Incredible." >"Help is always welcome, But > You need not Trade for ours, > That is yours for the Asking." Will nodded, "Thank you again." >"I do not know any good way of saying this, > So I will just have to Tell it, > We are not in the universe where we first met, > That Universe was Destroyed completely, > Some Fifteen Years after our encounter. > By a conflict between powers that we could not prevent, > Please understand it was not our doing, > And we would have prevented it if we could. > It was an effect similar to an Imbalanced gateway, > To An Antimatter Universe. Will, at least, looked as if Enlightened. "That explains much we encountered before we left." >"Your situation may have caused your world to be recreated, > during the Reset, > This will definitely be so if that was not your native universe, > A percentage possibly a majority of the population of your world, > May have been transferred to a Planet within the Matrix Cosm." Major Don West ran a hand through his hair. "Well, I don't know about the rest of them, but if all that's the case, I'd say we owe you our lives. You've got my help in whatever way I can provide it." The rest of the Robinson family agreed, even Doctor Smith, who added, "Indeed Major, for once we are in agreement. And we'd owe you even more were you to help us get home." "Smith, you ungrateful-!" West began to protest. John Robinson cut him off, "Alright, that's enough. Look, we owe these people our lives, let's not act like we weren't worth saving. Nemisis, from the sound of things, we might be able to help you with your third artifact, the Blue Horizon. Don here is a good military man. And Will has a knack with technology, always has. The rest of us can-" The major interrupted, "Stay put. John, if I'm right, I don't want to drag all of us through that ship. While Will and I go, I want the rest of you to see about getting us home and maybe incorporating some of this place's.... whatever it is... into the ship if we're going to need it." "Don-" John started to protest. Major West frowned, his head tilted to look John in the eyes from from an angle as he shifted feet and gestured with a placating hand as his other rested on John's shoulder. Judy Robinson smiled slightly. It seemed to be the same stance Don always took when he tried to reason with her father, who tilted his head to match Don's as he put his hands on his hips, the traditional pose for him. "Look," Don said, "There are six artifacts to uncover after these three. I don't know what they are, but I'd be willing to wager there are going to be some that will require someone else's skills besides Will's and mine. Risking our resources like that's a bad idea. We only want to deploy what we expect to need and hold the rest back. I think Will and I can cover whatever we encounter, along with the people already going." John started to protest, but stopped. "Sometimes I hate it when you're right. Alright, Will, you okay with all this?" William nodded, "I'll love to go, actually." He looked thoughtful for a moment. "Nemisis," Will said finally, "We've been to ... four universes thus far. Ours, one where earth was several hundred years more 'advanced' than ours and there was no record of our expedition at all. The technology everywhere there looked like one of those old Flash Gordon matinees in the 30's, though. Even the alien technology, which surprised me. Then there was Quarren. Now, here. "So, it looks like our home world is still out there somewhere, assuming we can find a way back to it." ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 22:05:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:48:00 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007666 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 16:16:53 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007641 > > Will nodded, then called out, "Uhm, Nemisis, can you explain how >we got here while we look around and see if maybe we can help you in >trade for some... well, I'm not sure what to ask for, but we're >looking for a way back to our earth and had hoped, rather more >strongly now, you or your friends might know a way to get us there." Roland looks puzzled for a moment, though it doesn't seem to be directed at Will. His form shifts briefly to his Defender armor, then back to Blaze. /"We'd be happy to help you folks out, 'no charge,' so to speak. We're trying to help a friend of our own, presumed dead, recover from whatever state he's in now, if possible. If you'd like to help out, you're certainly welcome. But if you'd like, I could examine you and your ship, 'feel' the reality you belong in, and transport you there. I'm not sure if I could 'port the whole ship by myself, but with the tech here increasing my volume limits shouldn't be too much of an issue."/ Roland looks over at Aurora questioningly. Then he looks into the distance. /No, Quantum, I don't think Destroyer's behind these latest thefts. Sounds more like Viper, or - Light forbid - Mechanon,/ bleeds through the link. Whatever the Champions are doing at the moment, it's distracting him mightily... ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 22:05:51 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:56:42 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007667 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:44:45 -0400 >Zia Said As CAoL Message # 00007652 > >"I meant the neural interface part. I can 'hold' a Trump open. I can >hold more than one Trump open at the same time. But the number I can >hold is finite, based on how long I must continue the activity - it's >strenuous. If you intend on using the methodology I believe you do, >I'll need you to 'organize' the quantity of the ones currently 'cold' >in my head, as well as present to my individual attention the Trump >required at that instant of time. Of course, there will be a dreadful >lag on your end; I have a Lensman grade mind, but it's not a >computer. Hopefully, that those two limitations won't invalidate your >plan?" The neural-interface comment draws Roland back briefly from whatever is holding so much of his attention on Earth-9. /"Neural interface? I don't know about your Amber's version of Random's son Martin - or even if he has one - but I still have that favor in the Amber I know. The Martin I know has this...well...it's a Cybernetic Trump deck. I know it's impossible; he did it anyway. You probably wouldn't want a plug in the side of your neck, but I'm sure less invasive equipment can be designed to do the same thing. And he's 'Symboled,' assuming their Pattern is compatible with yours."/ ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 23:02:34 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 00:34:45 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007668 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 23:21:31 EDT >Dane0R0A Said As CAoL Message # 00007662 > >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007641 >> Will nodded, then called out, "Uhm, Nemisis, can you explain >>how we got here while we look around and see if maybe we can help >>you in trade for some... well, I'm not sure what to ask for, but >>we're looking for a way back to our earth and had hoped, rather more >>strongly now, you or your friends might know a way to get us there." > >*"Getting you home, will not be a problem. The problem will be >identifying which universe you came from in the first place. If >Nemisis can't help you there, I'll see if Oracle will."* Aurora >offers. Will nods, looking puzzled, but not as much as he might. Roland then speaks up and Will turns his attention to him... ================================= Date: Tue, 12 Oct 1999 23:02:38 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 00:37:40 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007669 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:48:00 -0700 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007666 > > Roland looks puzzled for a moment, though it doesn't seem to be >directed at Will. His form shifts briefly to his Defender armor, then >back to Blaze. /"We'd be happy to help you folks out, 'no charge,' so >to speak. We're trying to help a friend of our own, presumed dead, >recover from whatever state he's in now, if possible. If you'd like >to help out, you're certainly welcome. But if you'd like, I could >examine you and your ship, 'feel' the reality you belong in, and >transport you there. I'm not sure if I could 'port the whole ship by >myself, but with the tech here increasing my volume limits shouldn't >be too much of an issue."/ Roland looks over at Aurora questioningly. > Then he looks into the distance. /No, Quantum, I don't think >Destroyer's behind these latest thefts. Sounds more like Viper, or - >Light forbid - Mechanon,/ bleeds through the link. Whatever the >Champions are doing at the moment, it's distracting him mightily... Will nods, looking a bit distant himself. [Bringing someone back from the dead... not sure how we could help with that...] Nemisis starts explaining how they came to be here and Will's attention is back to her.... ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 00:28:33 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 00:19:04 -0700 (PDT) The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007670 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:15:23 -0700 >Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007650 > >>On Mon, 11 Oct 1999 18:42:08 -0700 >>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007614 >> >> "I'll join that last group," Eric says, his voice more >>businesslike than dry. "I don't think that I'll be able to help much >>in the scheming against the Ansible Guild, and while the Paradox >>mages have to deal with doesn't concern me, I suspect a plain old >>temporal paradox could wipe me out as quickly as the next mortal. >>This Cosmic Engineer device, however, sounds like it requires a >>certain amount of combat savvy and flexibility." He smiles. It's not >>a pleasant smile. "That sounds like my department." > >Stranger enters from the other side of the room, his newly produced >changeling net in an army poncho roll on a strap over his shoulder. > >"Count me in too, the others seem to be covered and I've already been >on the Blue Horizon. /Anyone know if the gateway I came through still >open?/" He regards Hunter for a second or two before extending his >hand. "I'm Stranger." The Two wandered in just behind Stranger, pausing to study the holodisplays. [What do you think?] Mandy looked over at Raver. [The Gauge or the Cosmic Engineer?] [Perhaps.] Raver looked thoughfully at the displays. [I think... Yes.] She nodded at the mental burst of agreement from Mandy. "We think we shall join your mission, also. Unless there is a good reason for us to aid in the reclamation of the Gauge." >"I guess we'll be needing vacc suits, if we're going onto a spaceship >looking for this thing. The armoury should be able to sort that out, >I would think." "The armory?" Mandy queried. "Cool! Someone point me that way? I'd like to stock up on some ammo...." She trailed off as Raver read the map for them, and waved at Stranger and Eric. They could just hear her muttering to herself as she left, "...let's see...full metal jacket...teflon? More gun oil..." Raver's head came up a few moments later, a wry expression passing across her face. [Ah. Plasma arms. No, I have no need of anything. I still have that laser rifle I picked up back in AAE4, if anything happens.] "Yes. I suspect Mandy will need a set of battle armor, as well. I have no need of a vaccuum suit, myself." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:02:49 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:17:50 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007671 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:44:45 -0400 >Zia Said As CAoL Message # 00007652 > >"I meant the neural interface part. I can 'hold' a Trump open. I can >hold more than one Trump open at the same time. But the number I can >hold is finite, based on how long I must continue the activity - it's >strenuous. If you intend on using the methodology I believe you do, >I'll need you to 'organize' the quantity of the ones currently 'cold' >in my head, as well as present to my individual attention the Trump >required at that instant of time. Of course, there will be a dreadful >lag on your end; I have a Lensman grade mind, but it's not a >computer. Hopefully, that those two limitations won't invalidate >your plan?" "I think we have different operational modes in mind here..." "What I had in mind was a sort of Shadow Walk, hopefully nowhere near 'Hell-Ride', where I'd pick out what 'worldline', or 'probability' they were aiming for an have you 'aim' in the other direction." >"As for time effects on my person, I couldn't advise it without >dreadful need. I'm a fifth-dimensional being. When the passage of >linear time is .... altered, about me, rather than about the Shadow >I'm in, there is an effect much akin to the diffraction of light >through a prism, only in lineal time. This can create disturbing >events, and actually does become extremely hazardous in a short >period durational." She pauses, then admits, "The last time I tried a >haste spell, I set myself on fire, from friction against the air just >walking. The air had been drastically 'slowed' by the side effects, >which worsen exponentially. So, if that becomes needful, we'll have >to simply find a faster Shadow, and move our operational theater >there, instead of near-loci effects to me." "Noted." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 02:44:31 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Communications Glitches On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:48:57 -0700 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00007672 Leonard Erickson wrote: >"Consider that due to the cost of a 'link' from the guild, >conventional, *tappable & *traceable* technology has to be used >between most consumers and the links. And they pay for use of bothe >the conventional network, and the use of the links between the >conventional networks." > >"With the new technology, anyone can link directly to anyone else >using it. The only cost is the initial cost of the unit, and the >occasional battery." > >"This makes cost and privacy prime selling points of the new tech." The Bard shrugs. "Aye, but unless we prove it to be as reliable as the Ansible--which will take a couple of millenia, by all accounts--the average person will stick to what he knows will work. Thus, my plan to glitch the Ansible while (or preferably a bit before) we introduce the new tech. With the Ansible no longer 100% reliable, people are going to start looking for alternatives, and it will seem quite natural that they find one." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 02:44:36 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Hunter and The Actress On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:49:05 -0700 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00007673 Gerster wrote: >>something on the grip, then unfolds some black panels from the side >>of the pistol, angling them to face the sun. > >Dhyrclhanc looks carefully at Harlock's pistol, via the (presumably) >still active, "Nemisis Portal". > >/Excuse me, friend Bard, but is that a Mark V Blaster?/ "Ah, no, I don't believe so," says Harlock, turning the pistol over in his hands. "Ah. Here we are. Golan Arms series 3 Lasgun, model number BFG-47." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 02:44:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Quantum magic? On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:49:11 -0700 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00007674 Peter Eng wrote: >>heard of my proposal to glitch the Ansible system? I know a spell >>that would work, but it would need to be adapted to modern >>technology, and it sounds like you could help me with the >>adaptation." > >"I might be able to help, but I'd need both ends of an ansible for at >least thirty minutes. That way, I can scan them to see if they're >aligned similarly to the way that the 'split photon' theory works. If >not, there are a few other spells I know of that may be useful." "What need have you for the ends? The plan calls for glitching the switching stations, which presumably can be done within the chip that's doing the switching." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 02:44:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Communications Glitches On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:49:19 -0700 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00007675 Nemisis wrote: >>"Unless the dysfunction is systemic, the Ansible will not be truly >>discredited. As such, what matters whether we introduce it at a >>government station or the Guild station?" > >"If that is the Goal, > There is No Difference." > >"Perhaps one day you will explain, > Why that is the goal." Harlock considers for a moment, then speaks. "In the history of Terra, as I looked it up in the TSM databanks, there was a period where they were just starting to discover the damage their technology was doing to the planet. Despite the fact that solar collectors, windmills, and tidal power plants (among others) were all feasible, if still somewhat inefficient, methods of generating electricity, the people still relied on fossil fuels. This despite the fact that people were constantly being told about the damage being done to the atmosphere." "It wasn't until the fossil fuels became rare to the point of prohibitive cost that the alternatives were truly explored. For the better part of a century, most of the planet was living at a bare subsistence level while the new power sources were integrated into the infrastructure." "The sad truth of the matter is that people do not readily abandon one system for another, particularly a system that has served well for more than a few decades, let alone the millenia the Ansible's been running. If we want the new ansible to be popularly accepted, rather than being just a shiny new toy for the idle tech-types, the Ansible must be somehow discredited." "While I sincerely regret the need to cause widespread havoc of such a nature, I don't see any other way to achieve our stated goal in fewer than about two centuries. Even discontent with taxes can only stretch so far. I can just see it: 'The government is taxing us into the poorhouse just so they can keep the Guild happy, and what has the Guild ever done for us?' 'Kept the comm lines open for a couple millenia, for starters...' I'm sorry, Nemisis, but I need more grist for the mill. If you're worried about lasting effects, any decent mage should be able to sense the glitch spell and try to remove it. I rather suspect Aurora could remove the spell without even lifting a finger." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 06:15:51 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Decisions, Decisions On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 08:02:31 -0400 Caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00007676 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:36:33 -0700 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007664 > >>On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 10:14:00 EDT >>SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007631 >> >>In a message dated 10/10/99 9:40:22 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >>caprice writes: >> >>"Huh? Handle who--?" Roger looks totally at sea, then manages to >>"follow" Legion's line of glare and takes a closer look into >>himself. "What the-! Well, I'll be...never even noticed him. C'mon, >>Ticker, fish yourself out of there...no, dammit, you big sissy, I'm >>NOT going to to hurt you! Sorry, sorry, didn't mean to yell. C'mon, >>that's a good boy...." It's clear that Roger shares Legion's >>visualization of Tick-Tock...the "image" he gives to the CS now >>sitting metphorically on his hand looks just like a young puppy who >>looks rather afraid. Roger raises an automatic hand to stroke its >>head, and the 'puppy' cringes away visibly. >>"What!? That's...Ticker, I'd never do anything to you -- huh. >>Legion, maybe you'd better take him...he seems to be *afraid* of me, >>but I haven't got a clue why." Legion sighs, "You're a walking temporal anomaly.... why do you think?" > Tiktok looks at Legion, the impression it gives back to being a >confused-but-loyal dog. Given that it's been busted, now, and how >easily Roger pulled it out, it sort of skulks off, giving Roger a >'you'd better behave, or I'll chew your ankles down to the bone' >look, and returns to wherever Paradox spirits go. Legion's eyes go distant, and she murmurs, "Good, it got home safely. It really does not belong out this far from its home cluster... Much less playing reality police here." > Something else seems to glare for a moment, but then it's gone; >too quick for anything more than an impression. Legion looks up and comments, "And that goes for you too!" ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 08:04:33 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 09:48:37 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007677 The blonde man picked his way across the rocky plain, new lichen making the way a bit slippery in places, especially in brown oxford shoes. Yet he never fell and managed to still make good progress across the plain. The Army of Light was in the castle now, as was the crew of the Jupiter Two. He continued his walk, finding a few difficult ways through the stones, as everyone got settled inside into working, planning, or other matters. Anyone who wished to watch the outside of the castle could spot him easily, he wasn't hiding his presence, in fact he whistled as he walked, a light warbling tune worthy of a Disney movie. Eventually, he reached the castle and found a convenient place to knock, adding in a pleasant voice, "A friend, coming from Callahans, calling for the Army of Light." He flipped the matchbook from the Place around in between his fingers as he waited. If no one meets him and nothing bars him entry, he'll make his way inside slowly, shoes clacking across the floor, calling out on occasion as he makes his way gradually toward the planning room. "Hello," the blonde man says, holding the matchbood casually, but allowing the cover to show, as if it were a letter of introduction that he wasn't sure he'd need, "My name's Seth. I'd like to help you on your quest, if I may be allowed." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 08:34:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Quantum magic? On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 08:16:10 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007678 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:49:11 -0700 >Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00007674 > >>Peter Eng wrote: >>"I might be able to help, but I'd need both ends of an ansible for >>at least thirty minutes. That way, I can scan them to see if they're >>aligned similarly to the way that the 'split photon' theory works. >>If not, there are a few other spells I know of that may be useful." > >"What need have you for the ends? The plan calls for glitching the >switching stations, which presumably can be done within the chip >that's doing the switching." "Mmm," Rob muses, before pulling out a pad and pencil. Scribbling briefly, he sets up a long series of equations. A few minutes of calculation later, he puts all this back in his pocket, and begins "writing" on the air. "I think that incorporating a {} into your spell is the second-best option. It's designed to scan a microchip and select the best possible scrambling method, based on the chip's design. It's up to you to generate the encryption, though." [OOC] What options these microchips might have. Electrons, photons, or something beyond my ability to imagine...Rob might know a few that I don't, but he doesn't know all the possibilities either. - Peter E. [/OOC] "Best option is having me come along to get a look at the microchips used in their switching stations." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 13:13:11 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:31:20 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007680 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 00:19:04 -0700 (PDT) >The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007670 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:15:23 -0700 >>Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007650 >> >>>On Mon, 11 Oct 1999 18:42:08 -0700 >>>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007614 >>Stranger enters from the other side of the room, his newly produced >>changeling net in an army poncho roll on a strap over his shoulder. >> >>"Count me in too, the others seem to be covered and I've already >>been on the Blue Horizon. /Anyone know if the gateway I came through >>still open?/" He regards Hunter for a second or two before extending >>his hand. "I'm Stranger." Eric looks Stranger over, not rudely, just calmly, from behind the shades, then nods and takes his hand. "Eric Lancer." He grins ruefully. "A Stranger and an Actress. Maybe I _should_ just call myself 'Hunter.'" > She nodded at the mental burst of agreement from Mandy. "We >think we shall join your mission, also. Unless there is a good reason >for us to aid in the reclamation of the Gauge." Eric looks at Raver...and his grin broadens, becoming even more wry if possible. He doesn't seem to mind at all - just the opposite - but it looks like he can't think of a polite way to say it. >>"I guess we'll be needing vacc suits, if we're going onto a >>spaceship looking for this thing. The armoury should be able to sort >>that out, I would think." "Hrm." Eric's expression turns sour, and he straightens. (Note: At this point, perceptive observers will realize he's been in...not a slouch, but not exactly straight-backed...'coiled' comes to mind...) "Should've thought of that." > "The armory?" Mandy queried. "Cool! Someone point me that way? Eric's eyes light up again, a dark amused gaze, at the excuse to go back into the armory and pick up more equipment. He looks at Mandy briefly, not exactly crazy about her coming along... >I'd like to stock up on some ammo...." She trailed off as Raver read >the map for them, and waved at Stranger and Eric. They could just >hear her muttering to herself as she left, "...let's see...full metal >jacket...teflon? More gun oil..." ...then he cocks his head at her as she leaves, nodding. "Hrm. Full of surprises..." > "Yes. I suspect Mandy will need a set of battle armor, as well. >I have no need of a vaccuum suit, myself." "That must come in handy." [Note to self - examine armory inventory.] ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 13:13:24 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:19:38 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007681 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 23:50:42 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007665 > >>On 10-12-1999 at 17:54:57 >>Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007649 >> >>"Your situation may have caused your world to be recreated, >> during the Reset, >> This will definitely be so if that was not your native universe, >> A percentage possibly a majority of the population of your world, >> May have been transferred to a Planet within the Matrix Cosm." > > Major Don West ran a hand through his hair. "Well, I don't know >about the rest of them, but if all that's the case, I'd say we owe >you our lives. You've got my help in whatever way I can provide it." > The rest of the Robinson family agreed, even Doctor Smith, who >added, "Indeed Major, for once we are in agreement. And we'd owe you >even more were you to help us get home." > "Smith, you ungrateful-!" West began to protest. Eric grins. It's wry, but not unpleasant. He gives the Major a weighing look in the process...then grunts some sort of approval. > John started to protest, but stopped. "Sometimes I hate it when >you're right. Alright, Will, you okay with all this?" > William nodded, "I'll love to go, actually." He looked >thoughtful for a moment. Eric turns to Major West. "If I may ask..." he nods in the direction of the Robinsons, centered most closely on John. "...how did you do that?" His eyes flicker to Rio. ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 13:13:29 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:46:55 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007682 >On 10-11-1999 at 20:07:19 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007616 >"As we have no idea what may be waiting for us there, > Would you like the Direction Spot? > That way there would no disruption of the chain of command, > Should we find ourselves faced by, > Hostile Personnel or Automation." "Absolutely not," Eric almost growls. "I can follow orders if necessary, but I don't give them. The one time that chain of command led to me, I said 'everyone get out.' It worked, but that's not exactly tactical genius." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 13:13:34 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: House Phoenix/Greywolf On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 13:06:57 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007683 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 20:19:24 -0700 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007663 > >>On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 10:13:47 EDT >>SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007628 >> >>>In a message dated 10/9/99 11:08:06 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >>>kal-el writes: >>> >>>"When this is all over, I may introduce you to Cas and Pol Stone. >>>Along with Laz and Lor Smith. The fireworks should be most >>>entertaining." >> >>Roger grins. "Been there, done that, got the T-shirt. In fact, I >>even took Uncle Rob with me." >>He blinks at Rob. "Oops, sorry, wrong Rob. I meant Uncle Rob >>'Heinlein,' not Nishikawa..." > > (OOC: Assuming this is in the Place...) > Roland practically turns green with envy. "You met Heinlein?! >Nass, he died before I Erupted." His eyes narrow. "How...I don't >think I want to know." Nemo speaks gently to him. "Roland, I think you and Morgan have been spending too much time with only *one* of the Callahan's. You *really* need to drop by Lady Sally's. Bob and Ginny drop by fairly often." Roland will (no dooubt have this "but he's *dead*" look on his face. "Remember the way Lazarus pulled a fast switch when Maureen 'died'? Do you *really* think that Heinlein's fans thru the ages couldn't pull off something similar?" ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 14:11:01 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 16:08:06 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007684 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:19:38 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007681 > >>On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 23:50:42 -0500 (CDT) >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007665 >> >> John started to protest, but stopped. "Sometimes I hate it when >>you're right. Alright, Will, you okay with all this?" >> William nodded, "I'll love to go, actually." He looked >>thoughtful for a moment. > > Eric turns to Major West. "If I may ask..." he nods in the >direction of the Robinsons, centered most closely on John. "...how >did you do that?" His eyes flicker to Rio. West grins, "Well first, you have to be right." John adds with a smirk, "And that your opponent respects your expertise, intelligence and acknowledges that you have the same interests at heart." Don smirks, "True, that never hurts. Then it's just a matter of using all that." "It doesn't hurt that your arguments are ones that your opponent can't find fault with. And that you can show your way is more likely to protect your opponent's interests than his." Don nodded to John, folding his arms over his chest, then bringing a thumb up to his lips as he rocks a bit in thought. "And if that doesn't work, you punch him in the mouth." ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 17:35:21 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 01:07:35 -0700 Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007685 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:31:20 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007680 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 00:19:04 -0700 (PDT) >>The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007670 >> >>> On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 01:15:23 -0700 >>> Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007650 >>> > Eric looks Stranger over, not rudely, just calmly, from behind the >shades, He will certainly note Stranger's long dark coat and braod brimmed hat. Beneath can be seen black combat boots and trousers and a dark green shirt. Tucked into the front of Stranger's belt is a Colt Python and it's obvious that Stranger has a pair of swords on his belt from the hang of the coat. A man as observant as Hunter will certainly notice the bulges in Stranger's armpits, and he may even notice the ankle holsters, although they are much better concealed and impossible to get to in a hurry under the combats. >then nods and takes his hand. "Eric Lancer." He grins ruefully. "A >Stranger and an Actress. Maybe I _should_ just call myself 'Hunter.'" Stranger's handshake is firm, but not overly so. He smiles back. "We're starting to sound like a Gladiators team." >>I'd like to stock up on some ammo...." She trailed off as Raver read >>the map for them, and waved at Stranger and Eric. They could just >>hear her muttering to herself as she left, "...let's see...full >>metal jacket...teflon? More gun oil..." > > ...then he cocks his head at her as she leaves, nodding. "Hrm. >Full of surprises..." "No one here is exactly what they seem." Adds Stranger, almost to himself. >> "Yes. I suspect Mandy will need a set of battle armor, as well. I >>have no need of a vaccuum suit, myself." > > "That must come in handy." [Note to self - examine armory >inventory.] Stranger headed out to the armoury, looking for a GURPS style TL12 biosuit. ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 17:35:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 13:15:56 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007686 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:56:42 -0700 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007667 > > The neural-interface comment draws Roland back briefly from >whatever is holding so much of his attention on Earth-9. /"Neural >interface? I don't know about your Amber's version of Random's son >Martin - or even if he has one - but I still have that favor in the >Amber I know. The Martin I know has this...well...it's a Cybernetic >Trump deck. I know it's impossible; he did it anyway. You probably >wouldn't want a plug in the side of your neck, but I'm sure less >invasive equipment can be designed to do the same thing. And he's >'Symboled,' assuming their Pattern is compatible with yours."/ Nemo looks slightly uncomfortable. "Wouldn't that mean involving GhostWheel, at least peripherally[1]?" [1], yes, I know it makes a bad pun. But it's also the appropriate word. Deal with it. ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 19:04:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 18:54:59 -0700 (PDT) The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007687 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:31:20 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007680 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 00:19:04 -0700 (PDT) >>The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007670 >> >> She nodded at the mental burst of agreement from Mandy. "We >>think we shall join your mission, also. Unless there is a good >>reason for us to aid in the reclamation of the Gauge." > > Eric looks at Raver...and his grin broadens, becoming even more >wry if possible. He doesn't seem to mind at all - just the opposite - >but it looks like he can't think of a polite way to say it. The demon returned a small, slightly feral grin, recognizing that Eric thought there was a good likelihood of battle ahead. > Eric's eyes light up again, a dark amused gaze, at the excuse to >go back into the armory and pick up more equipment. He looks at Mandy >briefly, not exactly crazy about her coming along... Raver raised a white eyebrow at Eric's body language, which was telegraphing doubt clearly enough for a demon to read... OOC: Eric's wearing sunglasses, isn't he? >>I'd like to stock up on some ammo...." She trailed off as Raver read >>the map for them, and waved at Stranger and Eric. They could just >>hear her muttering to herself as she left, "...let's see...full >>metal jacket...teflon? More gun oil..." > > ...then he cocks his head at her as she leaves, nodding. "Hrm. >Full of surprises..." Raver settled for a brief amused smile. "Yes. She spent a year or so training with Wanderer. A striking example of a Warrior, for one of your species." The capital emphasis is clear in her voice, as is the respect. "Even if he relies more on guns than I would prefer." >> "Yes. I suspect Mandy will need a set of battle armor, as well. >>I have no need of a vaccuum suit, myself." > > "That must come in handy." [Note to self - examine armory >inventory.] "Yes. It does." (If anything is unclear, it's because I've started thinking in ASL after an hour of tutoring in English. *fwheep*) ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 22:05:57 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: Expecting the Unexpected (1 of 3) On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 21:51:05 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007688 Zia watches the CAoL talk, plan, form teams, etc, without much to say. Eventually, she seems to decide nothing is going to happen immediately, so she walks back out the way they came in. Along the hall of 'rooms', she turns a key and looks in one, curious. "Gads. You could keep a tribe of Martian dragons in this place." "Yeah, I know...living room...dining room...arsenal. Rather surreal, don't you think?" Zia tries not to let the 'didn't understand that at all' show too much. "Surreal... well, I suppose it could be taken that way." Eric walks out of the aforementioned arsenal, not visibly more weighed down than before...but Zia can probably pick up the bullet-generating 'clips' in his guns now, and he hasn't quite figured out where to hang that lightsaber... "I always liked a forearm sheath for something that short." Note the past tense? And likely not a light saber, either. Eric raises an eyebrow. "Hrm. It doesn't quite...seem to...fit, anywhere." He moves it farther back along the belt; it's an exact match for Qui-Gon's, except for _almost_ being completely black. A bit of silverish trim remains. The petite Amberite leans on the door into the 'vast' chambers that they call 'rooms' here, and gives him a cocked nod of her head. "I think some things require time to get used to carrying, at that." She shakes her head at the room again, then 'pockets' the key into the side of her dress. "This whole group takes time to get used to. I imagine some of these houses that pass for rooms would actually be a little small for some of that lot. The dragon, for instance." He shakes his head, apparently still thrown by Dhyrclhanc. "And he's just kibbitzing. I don't usually 'hang out' with Celestines." "DC? Oh, he's a teddy bear, once you get to know him. Although a few of the others have their.. hrmm, bad days." Eric smiles thinly. "A teddy bear he may be, but he's still a teddy bear with tank armor and razor claws. And some of the others...well, let's just say I hope they're not cranky." "Heh. Not notably, at least not like I can be at times. Although the Starspawn do rather tread on my toes, now and then." Eric looks like he swallowed a lemon. "Hrm. Gods, by any other name. I try to avoid conflicts with gods. They tend not to go well." "I tend to simply try and avoid conflict. But when a virtual stranger systematically threatens to wipe you out of existence, it does require at least a trivial amount of notice. At least, I thought it was an ideal educational opportunity for Grep.... " Eric blinks. "Grep? Is that some sort of acronym?" "Er, yes. But it was also the name of a once-member of the CAoL. She was around when I first, er, encountered the Wildtag Team." He shrugs and nods. "You...aren't exactly a member yourself, are you?" "No. It isn't possible; I have oaths of fealty to distinctly... shall we say, demanding? groups of a totally different locale." Eric grunts an assent, or understanding. "Not possible. Well, probably wise at any rate. This lot seems about as organized as a bagload of berserk cats." "Ah. Well, a militia style of command would never work. But they are rather like the Chinese Army I recall from the past. Rather like a big wave that can't be stopped. Of course, not everyone swamps over the 'right' target, but..." She shrugs, "They seem to do rather well with that technique." Eric snorts a chuckle. "Sound just like Phoenix's style. He always _did_ like the 'seat of his pants' approach. Of course, he's got the raw power to pull it off." Zia starts to giggle, but manages to stop. "Ah. Well, perhaps there is 'seat of your pants' of varying degrees, yes." He cocks his head, seeming to see Zia again for the first time. "Roland doesn't call someone 'friend' lightly. That's one of the few things we have in common; we've both been burned rather badly in that regard. You two make an odd pair. But he seems rather fond of you." Her eyes go falsely wide. "Gads, don't even. Like so NOT my style. Besides, I like Morgan, too." Note, she didn't deny, she only side-stepped as quickly as possible. "Morgan, you know better than I do. She seems to have been good for him, though." "Morgan is the sort of lady that a man could throw a cloak in a mud puddle for, and honestly be thankful she gave him the opportunity to do so." "Hrm." He looks distant. "I know...how a woman can be like that." He grins suddenly, and if it's not pleasant, it's not _un_ pleasant either. "I wasn't implying anything like that between you and Roland. I suspect that you'd kill each other in a month." Zia sniffs, and looks superior. "I don't think that either of us would be that silly." He nods. "Since continuing that line of thought would definitely be 'prying,' at least as I understand the rules of Callahan's Place..." he chuckles. "Hrm. I guess _anything_ I would ask at this point would be." Zia smirks. "Not that even ROLAND stuck to that for more than three minutes after meeting me. Of course, I didn't get outright attacked, so it went better than I had feared, at that. Those rules only hold up in the Place, and the Place isn't one of my favorite places to hang out. Although I tend to strongly discourage questions, since there are many I'm... limited in my willingness to answer." Eric snorts. "Roland's a big, loud, almost-housetrained dog. He'll only bite if his 'home' is threatened, but he'll make the most unbelievable racket at the drop of a hat." "You don't know Roland very well." Eric raises an eyebrow. "We're...not exactly friends." "Hrrmmmph." "As for the 'Place,' I'm still making up my mind about it." He looks at her levelly. "For someone who's working very hard not to look too chummy with the boy, you sure leap to his defense quickly enough." She shrugs. "I never said I wasn't trying to look 'chummy' with the 'boy'... who is older than I am by a substantial margin, anyway... I just don't like the word getting around just who I might consider a friend. Roland makes enough enemies for himself; he doesn't need extras for my tagalongs." Eric blinks...and nods, understanding completely. "Yes. I see. Friends come and go, but enemies accumulate, eh?" "Not mine, but then, I outnumber 'em generally speaking. Even when alone." She smirks. "So, now where are you going to try it?" Referring to the now thumping the back of a thigh light saber. Eric smiles sourly. "Beats me. This place is insane. I figure when I find one of those Danger Rooms, I'll load up the local equivalent of Quake, or whatever has the highest AI, and run through a few levels with the safeties set at minimum. I'm not going to get myself killed by a game, but I want an incentive to stay on my toes." "Egads. I always felt dangerous practice numbed you to the real thing, but one man's meat is another lady's poison." She looks around a second. "The nearest one is that way, as the crow flies. Want me to show you where?" He bows. "Thank you." He looks down the corridor. "Not necessary...I think...but if you'd like to whet your steel's appetite, I don't need to keep the safety levels low." He frowns. "And I don't think I _could_ go numb to violence. No matter how large an advantage it would be." Zia lets the door shut, and walks down the hall a half-step or less ahead, despite the fact she hasn't been here before, apparently knowing the route. "I don't carry live steel any longer." "Ah. My apologies. Martial purist?" "No. Got over it." She grins. "It's too lazy an approach, for me. Call me a perfectionist, if you like. "Hrm. If you don't mind me risking another nosy question..._are_ you a True Mage? You seem to have considerable levels of Prime and Correspondence, but I-" "As for True Mage or no... first you'd have to explain which definition of "True Mage" you use. It seems different about every Shadow I enter..." "Hrm. As I understand it, a 'True Mage' is one who does 'magick' or science or what have you by altering reality itself. Of course, with that kind of power, you get a lot of argument over what is really 'magick' and so on, but among those who call it magic, that seems to be the agreed-upon definition." He looks at her oddly. "At least on my world." Zia frowns thoughtfully. "Here, we're already entering murky assumptions. You see, I don't believe in 'reality' as a concept. It's way too unlikely. Although, if you postulate what is normally meant, I suppose I'd have to be defined in such a way." She actually manages to get a genuine chuckle out of him. "I've heard many such 'Mages' argue the very same thing. The whole apparent principle of the Akashic Brotherhood is that everything we perceive is in fact an illusion. I could've gotten that from Descartes." He shrugs. "That's why I went to the Shih, instead." "Everything we perceive IS illusion, not because what exists is not real, Eric, but because of consciousness. We cannot perceive without ourselves effecting what is perceived in some manner, no matter how small. Thus, the Uncertainty Principle doth make True Mages of us all." "I won't tell you what I think of that argument; let's just say I told the Akashics where to stick their 'one true martial art.' But given the postulate, your conclusion is logical. Many of the Traditions argue that very thing, and that 'Awakening' is merely realizing that the 'illusion' can be affected through force of will. Me, I try to prevent suffering, illusory or otherwise." She grins at the taller gent next to her. "If I disbelieve your bullets, will that upset your World View?" He smiles back at her. "I've had that done to me. Rather unsettling. Funny thing, though...the fellow couldn't disbelieve my fist." "Cognitive reality meet pugilism." She snickers. His smile fades. "He tried to argue with me that only the 'reality' I was infusing my fist with through application of chi allowed me to strike him. My response was along the lines of, 'as long as it works,' and kept swinging." "The one true martial art. Whatever works, is martial art." Eric finally _does_ laugh. "It appears we have an actual point of agreement, 'Ziactrice.' Will wonders never cease." It's weird, hearing him really laugh...as if he's not sure he knows how. "Nope. Seven impossible things before breakfast is the closest I ever got to normal. Your laugh sounds rusty; need some oil?" She teases, almost straight-faced. Eric's amusement vanishes as if disintegrated. "Hrm. Haven't had much to laugh about." "gee... can you teach me how to 'slam my face closed' like that? It'd be a neat expression to pop on the casting director next audition." Zia opens a door, the one even on the near side. It's unmarked, but leads into the antechamber adjoining the Danger Room, where the controls are. She came here but the shortest, most direct path, too. Eric nods. "This does appear to be the place." "Could I ask you a sort of strange question, Eric? I usually do, of warrior sorts, and you seem to be along that general line." "I've already asked you several; go ahead." He seems to be puzzling out the controls. She puts a foot up on one of the benches, watching him work. "Why do warriors practice combat more than winning?" Eric blinks. "I'm not sure I understand the question." "Well. I go by 'The Art of War' as my foundation for resolving differences." Eric nods immediately. "And Sun Tzu writes that the ultimate victory is to win without fighting. To get what you want to accomplish without the open battle, fight, conflict, what have you." "I see. The Shih do act as mediators first. But generally, combat is the most difficult - and hazardous - portion of our duty. The creatures that I...deal with...are used to being in control. The Shih, or demon hunters, are not controlled by anything save their own consciences. This disturbs them. I have certain advantages thereby. "But most of these creatures can crush a human with little effort. Unless the human is very, very good in a fight." "So can a falling piano, Eric. Doesn't make me take up smashing the ivories. It just seems silly. One doesn't practice marksmanship by aiming CLOSE to the bullseyes. Why practice being a warrior by practicing what is NEARLY best, instead of dead on the nailhead?" "Falling pianos rarely have malice of forethought." Eric frowns. "There is also the matter of 'practicing' negotiation. I have, as I said, some experience at such matters. But there's usually only one way to go about that...try to keep the fools from starting a war as best you can. Failing that, end it as quickly as possible." His eyes narrow. "And I will admit...when a shen is particularly intractable...there is a certain satisfaction in showing such a creature that it is not the mightiest being in creation." "Hrrrm. Yes, I suppose there might be something of that, although I've never really enjoyed that sort of victory myself." Eric looks at Zia with...is it envy? No. impossible. And yet... "You have never truly _hated,_ have you, Ziactrice?" "Only once. But that was under extremely odd circumstances." "Another thing, it seems, we have in common. But that hatred scars me to this day. You know how foul the aftertaste of it is, I presume." "Somehow, Eric, I highly doubt that the circumstances are at all similar." "Oh, of that I'm quite certain. But that they are...extremely odd...is. Oddness, by its nature, is unique in each circumstance." He seems to blink, as if realizing where the conversation is going, and turns back to his work. "Rather intuitive..." Zia was evidently WAITING for him to realize, and paused until he could himself. "Any scenario in particular you would like? Or will you pass, after all?" Eric asks. She shrugs. "It's not sentient, so it doesn't really matter. What did you have in mind?" "Something to prepare me for the possible dangers of chasing this 'Combat Engineer.' A large part of my success is how carefully I study my opponents before conflict begins. I have no idea what I will be facing." "Hah. The best way to trap a combat engineer is come up with a bright shiny wartoy he has to come look at. Chasing one would be pointless, and annoying to the chaser. Ahm. Excuse me, I am getting sidetracked into tactics again. Certainly, set us up." Eric smiles wryly. "'Don't try to teach a pig to sing; it wastes your time and annoys the pig,' eh? If the 'Engineer' is a being, then I'm inclined to agree, but we don't even know if it's a who or a what." "To engineer is human. To really muck it up, add a machine." "Are you _sure_ you don't like Callahan's Place?" He asks wryly. "Quite. I find probability nexi a real pain in the posterior." "Whatever gets you to the...end...of the day." He finishes tapping away. "Probably not my best work, but it sould provide us with a bit of the 'flavor' of what we'll face. How do you feel about Borg?" "At least THIS _pun_ ishment I'll be expecting." Zia comments dryly. "Rather limited in mental imagination, but collectively cooperative for survival better than any other humans I've met." He nods. "I suspect that we will face something like that, if we are opposed by human-scale opponents. I've never met a machine I could reason with, and I doubt I could stop a battleship with legs." "Anything is better than nano-scale. Very icky." He smiles wickedly. "Oh, I've given that serious thought. I think the 'Thousand Swords' Qiao should handle any such infection nicely." "If I get upset, I'll just let loose Roger's Noisy Cricket at 'em. They'll deserve it. And I hardly ever do something THAT severe on a first acquaintance." She grins. It's impossible to tell if she is joking or serious. He chuckles again, almost sincere. "Not on the first date, eh? Well. Here goes." Ziactrice & Eric Lancer: The Hunter ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 22:06:08 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: Expecting the Unexpected (2 of 3) On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 21:52:06 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007689 He chuckles again, almost sincere. "Not on the first date, eh? Well. Here goes." The door to the Danger Room opens, and the distinctive look of a Borg cube greets them. All Eric's humor vanishes, and he's a fluid battle machine in an instant. "Hrm. I wanted a little randomness, but I don't think an entire Borg cube...well. Nothing for it, but to see what _is_ possible." He walks in, and his chi boils away as he hums slightly. Zia politely let's Eric go first. She 'tags along', just PROJECTING harmlessness. He let out a 'kiai!' and his right arm seems to light up with a dim red-gold fire up to the elbow. It soon fades, barely visible below his duster. She hops up on one of the narrow, round rails at the edge of the infinite 'drop' and pads along it with the unknowing grace of someone who has perfect balance. "Impressive." Eric plasters himself against a wall, as two Borg walk past. There is a 'lightning flash' effect, and then a smell like .. burnt plastic? She gives the hole now smoking over her Lens a pat. "I hate energy weapons..." Apparently one of them tried to bolt her, and they both caught a wide angled reflection that slightly cooked 'em. He smiles. "Nice effect. Interesting variation of the Mountain Stance. Though I suspect you call it something else." "Total Accident comes to mind." He almost chuckles again, when two _more_ Borg come out of the wall. "Resistance is futile. You will-SQUAIERK!" Eric puts his fist through one and snaps the neck of the other. "Huh. huh. huh. Give me Kindred any day." "You know, touching them might not be exactly wise, given your choice of random elements..." Zia observes, looking around for the next wave. "From what I've seen, their vaunted defenses never seem to cover standard pummeling." He walks into a wall of force. "Then again..." "Resistance is futile," more approaching Borg intone. "They adapt very quickly." She finishes. "Hrm. Indeed." He focuses. "Perhaps...we can take advantage of that, in a sense." He puts his hand against the forcefield. Four Borg approach. Unseen, below in the gray-green depths,a flush of silver is beginning to tinge. She gives it a glance, somewhat satisfied, but distracted by the approaching enemy - and Eric's attempt. "They 'adapt' to anything they encounter. There must be some sort of...database, or computer system, that handles the adaptation. But their bodies are still human in there somewhere. That means chi. If I can confuse them...on both levels..." He concentrates. [If this doesn't work, this is going to be a very short fight.] Zia is evidently letting Eric do his thing; after all, it was his exercise. "Not enough time." He turns. "KIAI!" He fires a bolt at the four approaching Borg, then another. Another. The first two go down twitching; the third has a shield. "Hrm. Interesting..." Zia does a 'gun-hand' and says to it, not loudly, "Bang!" She 'fires' with the thumb and it drops. Eric blinks. "Eh?" She tosses Eric a grin. "I don't have to make sense; I don't believe in reality. Especially virtual reality. Although I DO tend to give the computer a headache when I do that. So it'll start getting nastier. Better get busy." He grins at her. "How about that last one-wait a second." He leaps forward, then back, in a flash, returning to the forcefield. The final Borg takes a few steps...then falls over, a strange (chi) fire burning its wires away. "Now, let's see..." "Hrrrm. Icky." Elaborate silver tracery, forming fractals like some condensing frost on a window pane, finally reaches 'their' level, and grows RAPIDLY upwards past them. Zia fingers one of the whirls near her, and smirks. "It seems to have trouble defending against that. My theory seems to be holding...virtually speaking, anyway." He presses the fiery hand against the forcefield. "A simple Dragon Fire Storm blast, it can counter. But combined with..." He looks up calmly. "Was that you?" She cranes upward, looking to the topwards of the ship now. "Was which me?" He looks at the fractals. "That living Mandelbrot set." "Yes, that's me. If you can't beat 'em, assimilate them seems to be the rule these folks like. So... I can play the game." Eric nods, then concentrates. He burns yet more chi, and says hoarsely, "Celestial Barrier." The entire 'cube' shakes; as circuits shudder, the walls of a cavern are visible. "I think that between us, we've given the Borg a rather impressive stomach ache. "Celestial Barrier blocks the ability of a being to 'steal' chi; the Borg collective seems to require something similar between its units, even if it isn't exactly 'stealing.'" The Borg-tech seems to be almost indignant. She nods, and gives the whorls now snaking up her own fingers a nod before following along in the 'wake' of Eric's blast. "Ulcerous humor, Eric, indeed." He groans. "I can see where the peanut-throwing tradition came from." She gives him the innocent look #32. "I think something rather... fancifully Munchausen is appropriate." "Oh? I was thinking now would be a good time to run like the Ten Thousand Hells were after us." "Why?" The theme of Jupiter, from Holst's, 'The Planets" begins to play from somewhere.. or everywhere, it's hard to pin down. Eric whistles. At the same time, an arched set of silver and ebon 'wings' done in circuitry looms up from her shoulders, and the whirls swim up around her face and eyes. "The hard thing is, this takes so much time. And it is terribly hard to maintain control in a lucid dream state." "Have you considered it for stage purposes?" "Why do you think I'm called Ziactrice??" He smiles. "I thought as much." One of the Borg nearby is beginning to 'morph to match'. Four more Borg begin to approach, 'armored' in the circuits that normally cover the walls. "You will be assimilated." They are moving wtih considerably more speed than the average Borg. "Resistance is futile." "Not to mention, NOT nearly as much fun as beating you at your own game." Whips of cables snake out, but only catch two. Those two get splatted against the wall, and speed-Silvered to winged form to Zia's apparent design. It certainly is more aesthetically pleasing... Eric whips out a long chain (gusari) and leaps at one other. He grabs its 'weapon' arm and cracks its head open with the weighted end. Then he does it _again,_ to the last one, and when it moves to parry the blow to the head, he rips out its chest plate with his free hand and uses the Borg's own armored plate as a weapon. The Borg goes down, hard and fast. "I like your method better. More elegant." He looks around. "Takes a bit of time, but not as much as I'd expect." There are tears streaking down her face, despite the calm look that remains. "Yes, but there are still disadvantages. I'm glad this is only a simulation, I wouldn't do it in... to a real sentient race." She half-grins, "I just taught them how to love, accidentally. It's like that, sometimes..." Eric frowns. "Time to end this, then. Looks like this is getting out of hand." More Borg are beginning to decant, this time streamlined, less armored and more mobile. "Simulations?" He blinks. "Not sure." He shrugs. "Let's see..." He leaps back, and begins dodging wildly. The Borg have never been notorious for their speed, individually...more like cybernetic Boris Karloff-style Frankenstein's monsters. Slow, lumbering, and (theoretically) implacable. She looks up, as a squadron of winged-Silver remakes stoops on the balcony, and makes grabs at individuals. Carrying some off. "Hmmm, T-cell analogs, or really individualized caring? Can a cell care if another dies? Although the scale here is different." As much faster as the new Borg are, they're practically standing still next to Eric. "Are they still sentient, the individuals? I haven't watched all the episodes with Borg in them; not enough time for television usually." "Define sentience, if you please." She grins, sort of sickly, but leaps to the railing, this time looking ready to leap into space if need be. As they lunge, she gives them an 'assist' over the edge. "Self-aware and capable of decision-making, barring external interference." He grins back. "If you take one out of the collective, can a Borg ask, 'what's in it for me?' Nice throw, by the way." He looks up; the decanting Borg are looking rather drunken, or as if they've gone days without sleep. "No, but if you add one, and it's the right one, SHE can." He smiles 'that scary smile of his' (with apologies to Frank Miller 8^) and his eyes unfocus...and a barrage of fiery blasts shoot out from his arm. Zia sighs, surrounds herself with her "Silver Guard" of subdued or transformed un-Borgs, and concentrates on taking over more quickly, or else Eric is going to be toast when his chi does run low. "Eric, can you hold off a moment, please?" He flies back, stopping his attacks, and climbs into the wirework of the 'ceiling.' "If you have a plan, Zia, I hope it's a good one." "Oh, it's excellent. If you can't go round, go through. Want to see things from the inside, Tough Guy?" She offers. He frowns. "I like my 'organic' body just fine, thank you." He sighs. "This is part of your plan, isn't it?" "Oh, come on. Live a little. How often do you get this kind of offer, from a dark mysterious lady? Too bad I'm not tall, or I could be a cliche." "I doubt you could be a cliche on your worst day." He smiles, almost a relieved smile. "Eh. Who wants to live forever anyway? KIAI!" He leaps into the Borg, crashing into half a dozen of them, and looks like he might actually take them out, except he misses one needle jab into his leg... Zia's basically set up a nano-tech web 'insulator' between her individualized Nonborgs and the 'collective winged' as they're calling it. There is a sense of individuality, but also of everyone ELSE in the collective. Rather like a broadband telepathic 'humm' except more on the level of drumming heartbeat. "Hhh...the collective..." The razor sharp edges of the wings split poor Eric's trenchcoat as they arc out behind him, showing more ebon than silver, rather than Zia's own more silver than black. "GAH!" He stares at the ceiling, fists clenched, wings spreading out behind him like twin blades, quivering with a need to be used... *See? Now, if that works, you can gain expansion without limitation to the common denominator, which without assimilation constantly, inevitably sinks lower. This way, you have unlimited scope, without dependence on constant assimilation. Less weakness.* She seems to be 'reasoning' with the entire collective, using some sort of 'bet' that she could TALK Eric into this as the opening and telling wedge. The Collective 'looks' at Zia, through the Borg 'Web.' It weighs Zia's offer for an instant in human time, but a very long moment for a computer, then responds with one word... #Efficient.# Zia thinks in an elegant mathematics that is ALMOST machine like... but far too inspired to really have the necessary 'coldness'. The Borg begin adopting Zia's methodology (and fractals) almost instantly. It begins to spread like wildfire. She tries to 'follow' it, knowing the discovery rate will become exponential. They do leave her comprehension in the dust mere seconds later... "Rrrr... damn." Eric's eyes are glazed, and he seems to be trying to almost 'shake' the nano-collective off like a wet dog. "Rrrr....OFF!" "Oh, stop... Wait one damn minute, you. I'm NOT doing all this, and not even trying them out before we go back. YOU can if you like." She shakes her shoulders, making the wings chime-rustle, and vaults over the balcony drop. There is a momentary long suspicious sound, much like a shriek in Zia's voice, before she manages to get the hang of how to glide instead of plummet. "thousand swords," Eric whispers. Then there is a triumphant WHOOOP as she zings straight up, blasting along. #Heavier than feathers... heh.# His body becomes like steel, and the collective just _stops_ inside him. His jacket, and most of his shirt, are torn to shreds by the wings and other, smaller protrusions. Zia laughs, and swoops a couple of falling Immelman's before bringing herself in for a half-landing, half-rolling crash on the balcony again near him. "Oooo... ouch." He looks at her coolly. "Enjoying yourself?" "Hey, it's a talent." She says, unbothered. Ziactrice & Eric Lancer: The Hunter ================================= Date: Wed, 13 Oct 1999 22:06:19 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: Expecting the Unexpected (3 of 3) On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 21:56:03 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007690 His body becomes like steel, and the collective just _stops_ inside him. His jacket, and most of his shirt, are torn to shreds by the wings and other, smaller protrusions. Zia laughs, and swoops a couple of falling Immelman's before bringing herself in for a half-landing, half-rolling crash on the balcony again near him. "Oooo... ouch." He looks at her coolly. "Enjoying yourself?" "Hey, it's a talent." She says, unbothered. His eyes narrow, and his entire body clenches. The collective seems to 'shatter' off of him, collapsing to the ground. He takes a deep breath. "Better." "What a waste. Although the beefcake isn't bad, either." His body is scarred almost over every inch of him below the neck. (It's NOT as a result of the collective; it seems to have healed some of the damage, in fact.) Except for a dragon-like pattern in the center of his chest, there seems to be more scarred tissue than 'clean.' He picks up the remains of his trenchcoat gingerly. "Hrm. That was a good duster. Gonna need a replacement." The clinking of steel can be heard within it. Zia laughs again, and holds out a hand still silver-whorled for the garment. After picking herself up from the ground landing, that is. He looks at her hand dubiously, but gives it to her by the collar. "Finicky." She notes, and then seems to go 'internal a long second. The coat 're-grows' to normal. "Job requirement." He looks the coat over. It even has the same 'worn' and broken in spots as before. "Huh. Not bad. Thanks." She puts one hand to the side of her mouth, and considers him carefully. Apparently taking advantage of the lack of clothing. He slides the duster back on, apparently unaware (or unconcerned) of her...appreciation. The lack of a shirt doesn't seem to bother him either. The dragon seems to...pulse...with each breath. (Face in the center, the rest of the body coiled in a circle around it, BTW. Rather like the Mortal Kombat dragon, except a whole body rather than just a snout.) Zia doesn't mind being ignored... well, any more than any other woman might. She runs a finger down his chest, dragon mark, scars, muscle, everything. THAT gets his attention. He looks down at the finger, and where it traces. "Yes?" "You're the first one I've met with more scars than me." He snorts. "Really." She raises an eyebrow. "You're the martial artist. Can't you discern truth from shadow? It's a prerequisite for most of your skill." He blinks at her. "Why would you hide them? I hide the dragon primarily because it's known, and the price for that patch of skin goes up weekly. But at least among the Shih, scars are like..." he smiles wryly... "well, rings on a tree. How long you've survived at what we do." "Hrmph. Silly. Someone old with no scars would deserve it more. As to why I hide them, it's because I don't enjoy the reactions they create, of course." He shrugs. "That I understand, to a point. I've seen too many sympathetic winces. But I ignore them." "True, but no one would mistake mine for combat scars. Though to me, they were." His eyes flicker. "Ah. I see...I think. I won't 'look,' then." She snickers. "You should have already seen, but it doesn't bother me. I'd just clobber you." She grins, as if knowing that IS a joke. "I can sense when someone is more than the seem, supernaturally speaking. More requires..effort." Considering how much chi he's already bled, she can guess what 'effort' means. And he got the joke; he's just ignoring it. 8^) "I'm too well-balanced for that sort of perception to function properly." She notes, agreeing. The silver FLOWS away, leaving her in the 15 year old guise from the Place, complete with the ravages of later-stage bubonic plague, albeit healed scars. He doesn't react visibly. But it's clear that it took even him an effort. "I thought you were older. Or is that inaccurate?" "Define me, and define older." She relents. "Parts of me are, but not this one. Uhm, gad, I hate how that comes out sounding. Math is so much more elegant a descriptor." "And Shaolin is so much simpler a philosophy than dealing with mundanes. But the world is as it is. Until we change it." "If you really need to know, I'm ... relative to myself, 34 years old, now. Although I haven't had anyone care since I was 12, actually gave Roland a turn ... in addition to the other six dozen, I suppose." Eric blinks. "You are a very confusing woman, Ziactrice. But I think I'm beginning to see what Roland sees in you." She snickers. "Someone to toss peanuts at, more than likely. Shall we leave?" "Someone...who is more than she appears, but never less than she claims to be." He bows, a real bow of respect. She looks confounded a split-instant, then just blushes VERY slightly, and bows back. "I suspect we should go back. They will wonder where we are, and I should find a shirt first. Kiri - Rio - will be in quite a state if she sees what my...occupation...has done over the years." "So ... I shouldn't tell her I ripped your clothes off in practice?" She says, as innocently as she can manage. Not even Zia could bring tHAT one off. He smiles coolly. "Oh, by all means, go right ahead. I imagine her estimation of you will increase exponentially." "Nah... I don't like being estimated anywhere near correctly. It's so... predictable." "Heh. Want to know something else?" She motions for him to lean down a little. She IS only 5'4" tall... And he's 6'5", minimum. (I haven't made an exact decision yet. 8^) "We're alone." He indulges her all the same... She just kisses him. No hands, nor the slightest motion to warn him. She is good at that. She manages to SHOCK him. He expected anything from being tackled (in a good way) to a knife in the ribs, but a straight kiss? He looks poleaxed. "It...has been a long time...since anything like that has happened to me." He looks at her carefully as he straightens. "Gee, must have been." She agrees, with a glitter in her eyes. "You didn't even manage to kiss back. Shame on you, being taken by surprise so easily." She IS teasing, but makes an exit off the balcony stage air so quickly he doesn't have a chance to reply in kind. He seems to know it, but doesn't take it that way; the 'window' closes, and his eyes glitter like steel. "Have a care, Actress. The only _other_ woman who ever managed that...is ten years dead." He says it in a calm whisper to the casual observer, but closer attention can hear his words bleeding pain. ^And the person I hated, Eric, was myself. So, what? As I said, learn to live a little.^ She is walking out of the 'holodoor' now. He is surprised, but doesn't react outwardly. Fumbling with the mini-lens, he tries to reply in kind. ^I'm a dead man who just hasn't fallen down yet.^ ^Aren't we all? Well. Except us ladies, of course.^ Rueful on the correction, as if it wasn't fully intentional. THAT gets his trademark wry grin. ^I suppose so.^ He drops the link, and leaves soon after her. Her appearance 'wavers' back to normal as she leaves the Danger Room, and the tiredness hits of all that shadow and self-shifting. "You know, Zia, a nap is not necessarily un-heroic.. and you're not a hero, in this gig." She yawns, and makes her way back towards her room. "You're more a hero than I." She almost flinches at Eric's words. "Would you MIND like... making an iota of noise, just for me not to freak, please?" He grins. "I have to concentrate to make sound when I move now. Kindred have _very_ sensitive hearing." She snorts. "I'm an empath, I can USUALLY hear more than sonics, but you can quiet even your emotions to the background, and it's unsettling." His grin vanishes. "I have to be able to do that too. I have hunted those who hear thoughts, as well. And I meant what I said. I kill. You redeem. You are more a hero than any Hunter. I just do what I can to carry that mountain until the day Death finally takes pity on me." Zia just shakes her head at him. "Blacker than the blackest night, eh? Unremitting, but your choice, of course." He nods. "Duty. It is hard, but not cruel. We all make our choices, and live with them." "It's not a one-time choice, life. It's a continual one. Even that one." He nods again. "True. But to choose otherwise...I would be someone else, then. Even dead men can know duty." "You know, one of my husbands is dead, too. Well. Undead. In a matter of speaking." Thoughtfully. He _smirks._ "I have far too much knowledge of the undead. And I was speaking metaphorically. I breathe; my heart beats; I must eat and drink. I am mortal. The alternative...is unpleasant." Zia starts _giggling_. "Gee, did you really think you had to tell me?" "I wasn't sure, for a moment there." His smirk becomes self-deprecating. "I have been mistaken for Kindred in the past." He wavers; his knees begin to weaken. She slides an arm around him, although she isn't plain tall enough to go higher than slightly above waist. "It did finally catch up, eh? I thought you were made of iron..." "Not just...chi...the Thousand Swords. I _am_ made of iron, for as long as that lasts. With that, and the Lightning Leap, I can fight an army...but when the Thousand Swords wears off..." his knees look like they're in serious danger of buckling. "I could not fight a white belt." _That's_ hardly true; his training is phenomenal. He could beat Amberites, when he's at full strength. But he _is_ really weak. Zia does something decidedly rare for her. She goes 'out of character' enough to use her Amberite level strength, and has plenty of knowledge of how to assist. Although if he falls anyway, she'll even go so far as to carry. He doesn't fall. But he obvously is willing his body to rest. "Shouldn't...have used that...for training. Don't like...things...in my body...or head. Thank you." Zia sighs, "You know, it's MUCH easier when I can..." She picks him all the way up, and just carries. "Just don't tell. I like to be underestimated strength-wise." He smiles gently. "I would not betray the confidences of...a fellow student of Sun Tzu, shall we say, rather than 'warrior.'" She snickers, "Warrior does not fit well, I agree." "I disagree...but you are clearly true to your philosophy." He straightens, as if testing his legs. She leans against the wall next to his door, then lowers so as not to lose her balance - she is far heavier than she should be, but careful. "I fight for Civilization. I just do it my way." He nods. "Civilization...I heard you capitalize that." He opens the door, and even as weak as he is he seems to glide in. He nods to her as she goes. The burned hole with a full Lens is still there, on her upper left arm. With a sigh, she slowly walks back to her room, notably NOT gliding atall. She keys it open, and wanders in. She lands on the bed, thinks about taking off her boots, but is out before she gets to it. He flops onto the bed. "Close." The door closes. He meditates; the chi returns to him quickly, in this place, but the Thousand Swords ravages the body as well. That will take time to recover from, even here. She left her key in the door - although it's still cracked open, so that hardly matters. As he lets his body relax, he mutters to the room, "The Army?" "In the meeting room." "I need to recover quickly." "Working." He nods; this place can probably have him ready by the time they make a decision. He lets himself drift, and says one more thing before he lets exhaustion claim him... "What a woman." Ziactrice & Eric Lancer: The Hunter =================================