Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 6i The Eye of Heaven - Chapter 2 Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Moves Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001 14:21:42 -0800 (PST) On Wed, 31 Jan 2001 13:59:57 -0800 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009251 >On Wed, 31 Jan 2001 12:35:53 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009249 > >>On Tue, 30 Jan 2001 14:49:11 -0800 >>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009245 >> >> "Allow me." Eric reaches nonchalantly into his voluminous black >>duster...and pulls out a metal lotus blossom sculpture, "etched" >>with oriental symbols. (When read around, it's a Buddhist blessing >>something along the lines of Ivanova's Egyptian quote.) "You are >>most assuredly _not_ embarrassing yourself, my lady. And I would >>very much like a chance to apologize for my earlier...brusque >>reaction." > >"You were correct in saying you were late. Apparently, you did not >understand that you were too late, to do this," Zia adds, very >quietly. "I would not hurt you unmeaningfully, but I don't see what >else I could say, or do, right now, but what I have just." Eric's smile never wavered, only becoming...more gentle. "It appears that it is I who should apologize. I can only claim lack of experience, and only by way of explanation, not as an excuse. "Rest assured that I understand perfectly. Even in matters of the soul, honor is everything." Eric paused, then became introspective. "Perhaps especially, in matters of the soul." >She removes her hand, not really smiling, but looking unwontedly >serious and she might even be a tad uncomfortable. > >"Nemo, if you'll pardon me a few moments? I feel a need to freshen up >a bit, after my travel." [More like, I need a few moments to recover >my aplomb], she thinks to herself. She glances up at him, to see if >Nemo agrees. > >She plans to go back to her room a few moments, for a bit of >solitude, if he agrees first. She won't just off and leave this >conversation flatly, but she did not and does not take Eric's >offering. Eric's hand flickered, and the lotus was gone. (Well, just up the sleeve, really. But by mortal standards, it was one hell of a bit of sleight of hand.) "My deepest apologies to you both." He bowed, quite formally, to Zia and Nemo in turn. ^Mew, get me out of here.^ Eric and Mew vanish in a tiny "pop" of pink, fluid light. ^Great ancestors, Eric, I'm sorry.^ Eric smiled as they appeared in the hall outside the waiting room for the Eye of Heaven. "Don't be. I'm only sorry that I discomfited her." He flicked his wrist again, and the lotus appeared in his hand. He stared at it for a moment. "I had my chance. I blew it. One thing I never lose sleep over are tactical errors. Some days you nail the beast, some days the beast nails you." Mew blinked, staring at him for a moment. =Okay. So now what?= Eric shrugged. "Now? I wait until they need me to kill something else. Diplomacy isn't exactly my strong suit," he replied. He looked at the lotus for a moment longer, then it vanished once more. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2001 15:46:39 -0800 (PST) On Wed, 31 Jan 2001 18:32:27 -0500 "Caprice" Said As CAoL Message # 00009252 >On Wed, 31 Jan 2001 12:51:58 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00009250 > >Morgan, taking a moment to relax (she seemed to need those more these >days), noticed the energy shift. Someone coming on-line.... > >/Hello, Caprice,/ she said brightly. /I hope things have been well >for you while you were gone. We still haven't revived Fuzzy, but it >looks like all but the last artifact are either in our hands or soon >will be. Most of the folx who aren't finishing up missions are >waiting at the castle./ /Hi Morgan! I(we) just need a moment to.../ There is a pause while Legion/Caprice talks to Sinister, /... to insert foot and chew vigorously. You'd think I(we) would know better by now. I(we) spent most of the time floating in one of Essex's tubes recovering from a long illness. We're returning to the castle now./ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001 08:10:38 -0800 (PST) On Thu, 1 Feb 2001 08:10:57 -0800 (PST) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009254 >"Caprice" Said As CAoL Message # 00009248 > > Legion didn't even try to argue. She simply nodded, and the two >of them reappeared back in the castle. Elsewhere in the castle, Rob has managed to work his way up to twenty-nine of the ninety-seven steps shown earlier, and is starting again. One-Two-Three-"MRRROW!!" Rob trips, turns the fall into a neat tuck-and-roll, and ends up stretched out on the floor, staring at an unhappy kitten. *Mischief?! What are you doing here?* *Following mommy. You stepped on me!* Mischief replies, sounding indignant in a way that only cats manage. *I'm sorry. I didn't see you - wait. You're 'following mommy'?* *Yes. I'm hungry. You have fish.* *Yes, I do, but the kitchen has more fish. And you should learn to say 'please' and 'thank you' at the very least. Politeness, I've discovered, prevents more fights than any weapon.* *Please take me to the kitchen? I'm hungry. I want fish.* "I'm not cut out to be a parent," Rob sighs. "Computer. Has," he pauses, trying to remember a name, "Caprice arrived in the castle?" Legion and Nathaniel Essex Have both arrived as of two minutes ago. "Please deliver a message to Legion, that Mischief is in the castle, and she will be in the kitchen five minutes from now, eating a quarter of a can of tuna." *All.* *One quarter. No more unless your mother allows it.* "Computer, cancel program." Scooping up Mischief, he heads for the kitchen. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001 11:05:05 -0800 (PST) On Thu, 1 Feb 2001 13:00:01 -0500 "Caprice" Said As CAoL Message # 00009255 >On Thu, 1 Feb 2001 08:10:57 -0800 (PST) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009254 > >Scooping up Mischief, he heads for the kitchen. Mischief purrrs as she's carried. Mentally singing in her head, *Tunafish. Gonna have Tunafish.* She sniffs delicately. *Essex was meanie. Tried to make me eat driedfood* Once Rob sets her down in the kitchen, she starts prancing around, getting underfoot, eager to get her promised tuna. Legion arrives shortly thereafter, smiling at the sight of Mischief eating. "Thanks, Rob... hope she hasn't been too much trouble." Mischief protests at that. *Am NOT Trouble. I'm hungry. More tunafish? Radishes?" She mews, sitting up on her hindpaws, gossamer wings spread for balance, and paws at the air cutely. Essex just stands in the doorway, watching bemused. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001 23:12:47 -0800 (PST) On Thu, 1 Feb 2001 22:43:03 -0800 (PST) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009258 >"Caprice" Said As CAoL Message # 00009255 > >Mischief purrrs as she's carried. Mentally singing in her head, >*Tunafish. Gonna have Tunafish.* She sniffs delicately. *Essex was >meanie. Tried to make me eat driedfood* Rob skritches Mischief on the head, enjoying the feel of kitten. [I miss having a cat around.] >Once Rob sets her down in the kitchen, she starts prancing around, >getting underfoot, eager to get her promised tuna. In spite of this, a saucer of tuna is soon placed on the floor, and attacked by kitten teeth. The remainder of the can goes into a bowl, to be joined by mayonnaise and vegetables. >Legion arrives shortly thereafter, smiling at the sight of Mischief >eating. "Thanks, Rob... hope she hasn't been too much trouble." "Nothing beyond typical cat, thank goodness. It makes me wonder if...whatsisname...Maslow's hierarchy of needs can be used to define the potential disasters a person can get into. Mischief is hungry, therefore she is less troublesome." >Mischief protests at that. *Am NOT Trouble. I'm hungry. More >tunafish? Radishes?* She mews, sitting up on her hindpaws, gossamer >wings spread for balance, and paws at the air cutely. > >Essex just stands in the doorway, watching bemused. A radish-and-a-half of sliced radish "accidentally" drops to the floor, as Rob finishes putting together two open-face tuna salad sandwiches and deviled eggs. "I leave her to your expert care," he adds, as he arranges plates on the kitchen table, adding a glass of milk and a small pile of potato chips. "Mm. Food." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001 06:11:15 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 2 Feb 2001 05:39:10 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009259 >On Thu, 1 Feb 2001 13:00:01 -0500 >"Caprice" Said As CAoL Message # 00009255 > >Michief protests at that. *Am NOT Trouble. I'm hungry. More tunafish? >Radishes?" She mews, sitting up on her hindpaws, gossamer wings >spread for balance, and paws at the air cutely. A kitten. With wings. *Please* tell me she doesn't have opposable thumbs! ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001 09:17:54 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 02 Feb 2001 07:35:28 -0800 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00009261 >On Fri, 2 Feb 2001 05:39:10 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009259 > >A kitten. With wings. *Please* tell me she doesn't have opposable >thumbs! She can shape-shift. If she wants opposable thumbs, she can *have* opposable thumbs. ;-) ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001 14:44:47 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 2 Feb 2001 13:48:43 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009263 >On Fri, 02 Feb 2001 07:35:28 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00009261 > >She can shape-shift. If she wants opposable thumbs, she can *have* >opposable thumbs. ;-) The multiverse is doomed... ================================= Subject: AAE: Sumarizing in the Castle Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001 20:43:47 -0800 (PST) On 02-02-2001 at 20:39:01 FailSafe Said As CAoL Message # 00009265 >On Tue, 30 Jan 2001 13:47:22 -0000 >Tech Tonic Said As CAoL Message # 00009243 > >Spins his chair to another terminal. "So, if I'm any judge, this >mission is almost set....I think. Unlesss somethign horrid comes >along.....Waita minute, Why hasn't anyone thought of this?" He smacks >his forhead. "Computer, Failsafe was it? Do you know how we're >supposed to put fuzzy together from these artifacts?" FailSafe and the Computer do a Poor Job of Coordination... ;) {We have Developed several Theories, but We have no assurance of accuracy.} "Only theories, Unless Oracle or The StarDragon arrive to do the Honors, The Theories are, Simple Proximity, 'Not very likely' Proximity plus A 'Powerful' Summoning Spell, 'Odds are so-so' Toss the Lot of them into the Central Nexus, 'Maybe, Side-Effects?' Some kind of Spiritual Coalescence Spell, 'Not very likely' " ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001 23:44:12 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 2 Feb 2001 23:43:19 -0800 (PST) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009266 >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009263 > >>Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00009261 >> >>She can shape-shift. If she wants opposable thumbs, she can *have* >>opposable thumbs. ;-) > >The multiverse is doomed... I don't see the problem. (scritching Mischief behind the ears) Yes, Mischief is an intelligent, shape-shifting, magic-using kitten, but...*Here you go, Mischief. More radish.*...I don't see how that endangers the multiverse. She's still a cat. *Sure, you can have the last bite of my tuna fish sandwich. But I get all of the other one.* And cats are generally inclined to convince people to do things for them, rather than figure out a way to do something. Besides, there's nothing to be worried about...excuse me. Mischief wants a saucer of milk. *** Anyhow, there's nothing to be worried about until we find out that a) Mischief is not the only cat of her type b) Mischief's abilities will be transmitted to her children or c) Whoever created Mischief is willing and able to create similar cats. Heck, for all I know, Mischief is a four-year-old shapeshifting human who decided that kittens had it good, and wanted in on the fun. *Sardines? I don't know. I think you'd better ask your mommy, Mischief.* *Oh, why not. You are a growing kitten.* ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6 :Rejoining the group Date: Sat, 3 Feb 2001 11:42:05 -0800 (PST) On Sat, 3 Feb 2001 10:49:11 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009267 >On Fri, 2 Feb 2001 23:43:19 -0800 (PST) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009266 > >*Sardines? I don't know. I think you'd better ask your mommy, >Mischief.* > >*Oh, why not. You are a growing kitten.* "The persecution rests, Your Honor." ================================= Subject: Time for AAE6i Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001 15:52:16 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 9 Feb 2001 16:54:53 -0500 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009276 >On Mon, 5 Feb 2001 16:40:23 -0500 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009273 > Mike nods, tapping a few things into his wrist computer. "Okay, >we'll handle that. C'mon Tink, time to build ourselves a tabletop >dimension jumper." > There's a transporter effect and a small cart appears with what >looks like a pedestal replicator on it. Which it is. > Mike wheels it off, calling over his shoulder, "Should be done >in a day, call us if you need us." A day later, Tink put the finishing touchs on the dimensional jump engine, mounted atop the table in their quarters, which was welded to the floor. Energy pulsed through conduits, lights blinked on and off, and the entire device hummed low and steadily to itself. She closed the panel she was working in, and took a handkerchief and gave the edges of the panel a quick wipe. Mike handed her a cup of tea and a biscotti from the pedestal replicator and replicated the same for himself. "Excellent work, Tink, you get an A+," Mike said, dunking the long, thin, hard cookie into the tea and taking a bite. A datapad materialized on the desk, and Mike blinked at it, picking it up. "Ohhhhhhkay, looks like I will have already arranged to have John's artifact delivered to the castle." Tink blinked, "Really?" "Well, this is my writing, my code and my family seal." "We have a family seal?" "Yes, but I don't use it often, just when I need to coordinate my past and futures without my past being aware of it." "Ohhhhhhkay." "That's what _I_ said." Tink beamed and called Ironfounderson, {Captain, we're done here, whenever you're ready to jump dimensions, let us know. We added a new feature based on the coordinates you gave us, we can now jump from anywhere in the Matrix Cosm to anywhere else, so we can cut our travel time down to 'Whenever we're ready' and remain in stealth as long as we wish in the meantime.} /Okay, we're ready on this end, Aurora. Since John's artifact is in the castle, we should just arrange for delivery of the Game of If to this ship instead. We'll pop in with both artifacts, the last one'll pop out, and we'll assemble everything back at the castle and cross our fingers and get Fuzzy back./ /Then, we party,/ Tink added. ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2001 16:47:04 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 09 Feb 2001 16:53:12 -0800 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009277 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009276 > /Okay, we're ready on this end, Aurora. Since John's artifact is >in the castle, we should just arrange for delivery of the Game of If >to this ship instead. We'll pop in with both artifacts, the last >one'll pop out, and we'll assemble everything back at the castle and >cross our fingers and get Fuzzy back./ > /Then, we party,/ Tink added. ^"Senior Guardian we will need the Game of If delivered here {}. If you need or want assistance in that I will be happy to aid you."^ Aurora sends to the Senior Guardian of If. Then she contacts Nemo. /^"I have notified the Senior Guardian of If to deliver the artifact to the Sevens, at {} this location. When it is delivered I will notify you that it is time to shift the vault. When the vault is shifted, I will incapacitate the guards, and retrieve the artifact when it returns, sans vault."^/ /*"Mike, Tink, I have passed your instructions on to the Senior Guardian and to Nemo. I shall stand by for your signal."*/ She finishes. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Moves Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001 04:39:55 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 9 Feb 2001 23:32:09 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009278 >On Wed, 31 Jan 2001 13:59:57 -0800 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009251 > > Eric's hand flickered, and the lotus was gone. (Well, just up the >sleeve, really. But by mortal standards, it was one hell of a bit of >sleight of hand.) "My deepest apologies to you both." He bowed, quite >formally, to Zia and Nemo in turn. Nemo bows as to an equal and hold it just a hair longer out of respect. And before Eric leaves he looks him in the eye. Not a challenge, just a look. Is it sympathy? ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Moves Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001 04:39:59 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 9 Feb 2001 23:25:23 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009279 >On Wed, 31 Jan 2001 12:35:53 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009249 >>On Tue, 30 Jan 2001 144911 -0800 >>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009245 > >>>"Hello, Eric. When did you meet the Black Rabbit, anyway? You've >>>met Nemo, by now, yes?" >> >> Eric considers for a moment, then smiles Indiana Jones-style. "In >>order: Hello, Ziactrice; I guess, when I discovered that I was late >>for a very important date;" he continues, sunglasses twinkling for a >>moment, "and I believe we've met in passing, yes." He turns to Nemo >>and offers a slight bow. Nemo inclines his head politely. >To her credit, Zia does manage not to look at Nemo to implore for a >rescue. "Oh, dear." She does remark, a bit nonplussed. She gathers >herself after only that much pause, however. > >She lays her free hand, not taking her right from Nemo's arm, on >Eric's behind where he holds the metal Lotus. "I regret to do such a >thing, Eric, but it appears I have no choice, in this situation. I >cannot offer such an offense to Nemo as to accept your gesture, when >we've only just agreed between us to a mutual interest." She purses >her lips, struggling to explain enough... but not too much. The male >ego is a beautiful, but delicate thing, too often scorned, in her >opinion. Is there a faint sigh from Nemo's direction? >"Nemo, if you'll pardon me a few moments? I feel a need to freshen up >a bit, after my travel." [More like, I need a few moments to recover >my aplomb], she thinks to herself. She glances up at him, to see if >Nemo agrees. "Take as much time as you need, I'll know when you leave your rooms." Thus implying without stating that while he may keep an eye on the corridor, but not violate her privacy. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Rooms Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001 04:40:04 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 9 Feb 2001 23:12:54 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009280 >On Tue, 30 Jan 2001 07:27:12 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009244 > >Zia hums a bar or so of 'It's Rainin' Men' not QUITE under her >breath, but she has a distraction from even grousing about Eric's >choice of swearing terms, as they meet the vampire at the food >dispenser. And catches Nemo humming harmony... >>>"Ah... I wasn't exactly sleeping, but I might get to a bed fairly >>>soon, to catch up. I note that she doesn't say catch up on *what*. >>On Mon, 29 Jan 2001 22:39:05 PST >>Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009242 >> >>"They aren't the only ones who don't have to worry about that sort >>of thing." Nemo reminds Zia. > >"You had to remind me?" She sighs, most put-upon, but also most >obviously faking the ennui. "It's best to keep things in the open to avoid unwanted surprises." (Is there the slightest stress on "unwanted"?) >"You have a good physique, Nemo. Not quite like Benedicts or Gerard, >but then, who IS? You've been smart enough not to make it >intimidating by being too striking. Most un-bios I know usually make >that mistake. Although for all I know, you made that and many others >before settling. I shan't ask... I'll just enjoy the design as you >stand." Nemo gives a small "as you wish" type handwave. >"Of course, I could be embarrassing myself, and no doubt you as well, >Eric, to no purpose here, too. Nemo, did you have in mind aesthetic >appreciation of some true etching artwork, or something more >romantic?" She pauses, and then adds, "I think you meant what I >thought you meant, not what you actually said, but ... I could use >some help, here." "Shall we ajourn to somewhere more 'intimate' to discuss things?" ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Sumarizing in the Castle Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001 17:09:04 -0800 (PST) On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 00:59:14 -0000 Tech Tonic Said As CAoL Message # 00009281 >{We have Developed several Theories, but > We have no assurance of accuracy.} > >"Only theories, > Unless Oracle or The StarDragon arrive to do the Honors, > The Theories are, > Simple Proximity, 'Not very likely' > Proximity plus A 'Powerful' Summoning Spell, 'Odds are so-so' > Toss the Lot of them into the Central Nexus, 'Maybe, Side-Effects?' > Some kind of Spiritual Coalescence Spell, 'Not very likely' " Grumbles. "So in other words, you have no idea? Figgers." Grumbles somemore, then rummages though his pack beside him. "Hmmmm, lesse, drakes blood, eye of newt? No, need something slimier, ah! Eye of lawyer....." He pulls out a vial and a jar with something floating in it. "Hmmm, some dust from olympus, a pomegranite from hades..." Brings forth a dried fruit and a small pouch. "A little bit of nectar," He very gently places a slightly glowing and solidified drop of something sweet smelling with the rest of it. "And ah'd normally need something personal, but hey, we've got parts o da gent right? I can whip up a nicely powerful summoning spell....Ah thank." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Moves Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001 20:10:08 -0800 (PST) On Sat, 10 Feb 2001 20:04:47 -0800 (PST) Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009282 >On Fri, 9 Feb 2001 23:32:09 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009278 >>On Wed, 31 Jan 2001 13:59:57 -0800 >>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009251 >> >> Eric's smile never wavered, only becoming...more gentle. "It >>appears that it is I who should apologize. I can only claim lack of >>experience, and only by way of explanation, not as an excuse. >> "Rest assured that I understand perfectly. Even in matters of the >>soul, honor is everything." Eric paused, then became introspective. >>"Perhaps especially, in matters of the soul." Zia looks like someone who wants to say the apology wasn't necessary, but she is too concerned to say anything wrong to venture more words at the moment. >> Eric's hand flickered, and the lotus was gone. (Well, just up the >>sleeve, really. But by mortal standards, it was one hell of a bit of >>sleight of hand.) "My deepest apologies to you both." He bowed, >>quite formally, to Zia and Nemo in turn. Zia gives him an elegant, and fully Japanese, bow in return, perhaps just a shade deeper than Eric's own, that culture's way of showing respect. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Rooms Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2001 21:08:55 -0800 (PST) On Sat, 10 Feb 2001 20:44:47 -0800 (PST) Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009283 >On Fri, 9 Feb 2001 23:12:54 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009280 >>On Tue, 30 Jan 2001 07:27:12 -0800 (PST) >>Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009244 >> >>Zia hums a bar or so of 'It's Rainin' Men' not QUITE under her >>breath, but she has a distraction from even grousing about Eric's >>choice of swearing terms, as they meet the vampire at the food >>dispenser. > >And catches Nemo humming harmony... Zia notices, and she is careful not to hide her grin completely. >>>"Ah... I wasn't exactly sleeping, but I might get to a bed fairly >>>soon, to catch up. > > I note that she doesn't say catch up on *what*. That durn Truth Curse of hers _can_ cut 'both ways', can it not? ;-) >"It's best to keep things in the open to avoid unwanted surprises." >(Is there the slightest stress on "unwanted"?) "Oh, yes. Although knowing the 'wanted' from the 'unwanted' and still keeping the element of surprise authentic will be a bit tricky. I'll give it some thought; I'm sure you already have." >"Shall we ajourn to somewhere more 'intimate' to discuss things?" "A good idea. My room is just...." She walks a few doors down the hall, "here, so it seems the most convenient place." She opens the door, and lets him enter before following and closing said door again. "Lights to 3/4, please, increase red spectra 20%." She tells the room. As the lighting level dims, she smiles with some trace of apologetic air, "I find the lighting greatly effects my feelings intimacy, although I have little notion what might correspond for you. Is there anything I can do to make you more comfortable?" She asks sincerely. Zia absently removes her swordbelt (which only is visible to normal human spectra once unbuckled, but Nemo knew/could see it anyway, of course. Not 'formally removing and placing' it in the samurai manner, more just so she can sit more comfortably herself. She sits on the end of the bed to consider him, adding, "Is this intimate enough for us to discuss things? Or would you like to do so somewhere very Out Yonder-ish? I feel sure you could keep in contact with things here, if you'd like to be out of the Castle - I'm not sure privacy is feasible from the Stardragon's cronies any where." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Rooms Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2001 04:08:11 -0800 (PST) On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 02:50:06 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009284 >On Sat, 10 Feb 2001 20:44:47 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009283 >>On Fri, 9 Feb 2001 23:12:54 PST >>Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009280 > > That durn Truth Curse of hers _can_ cut 'both ways', can it >not? ;-) >"Oh, yes. Although knowing the 'wanted' from the 'unwanted' and still >keeping the element of surprise authentic will be a bit tricky. I'll >give it some thought; I'm sure you already have." "There are ways for one such as myself." >"Lights to 3/4, please, increase red spectra 20%." She tells the >room. As the lighting level dims, she smiles with some trace of >apologetic air, "I find the lighting greatly effects my feelings >intimacy, although I have little notion what might correspond for >you. Is there anything I can do to make you more comfortable?" She >asks sincerely. "Simply be your lovely self, my dear Zia." >Zia absently removes her swordbelt (which only is visible to normal >human spectra once unbuckled, but Nemo knew/could see it anyway, of >course. There are things that are seen but not "noticed". I believe that's the way the Japanese put it? >She sits on the end of the bed to consider him, adding, "Is this >intimate enough for us to discuss things? Or would you like to do so >somewhere very Out Yonder-ish? I feel sure you could keep in contact >with things here, if you'd like to be out of the Castle - I'm not >sure privacy is feasible from the Stardragon's cronies any where." "We are as private as you wish to be. That, I can assure you of. But the *appearance* of privacy is almost as important as the actuality, is it not?" "So if you find this", he gestures around the room, "suitable, I have no objections." He make a sweeping bow, and goes to one knee at Zia's feet. If she does not object, he will raise her hand to his lips and kiss it. "How may I be of service, Milady?" ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Rooms Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2001 08:09:39 -0800 (PST) On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 07:54:12 -0800 (PST) Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009285 >On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 02:50:06 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009284 > >>Zia absently removes her swordbelt (which only is visible to normal >>human spectra once unbuckled, but Nemo knew/could see it anyway, of >>course. > >There are things that are seen but not "noticed". I believe that's >the way the Japanese put it? Exactly. >"We are as private as you wish to be. That, I can assure you of. But >the *appearance* of privacy is almost as important as the actuality, >is it not?" Zia grins. "The actuality is fairly important, but yes, the appearance is also good." >He make a sweeping bow, and goes to one knee at Zia's feet. If she >does not object, he will raise her hand to his lips and kiss it. > >"How may I be of service, Milady?" Zia cocks her head slightly and gives him a half-smile at the gesture. "My, if I haven't even gotten THAT much across, I am surely slipping." She changes her hand's position until their fingers are intertwined. Then she leans forward, slowly, balancing with her other hand on the bed itself. She looks at him from about three inches distant, then turns her head slightly, closes her eyes, and gently starts kissing him. The pressure is gentle, but she does take some advantage of temporarily being a shade higher, since she is sitting on the bed, and he was kneeling. After all, if you're not tall, might as well enjoy those situations where height differences are changed by most agreeable circumstances. A few seconds later (not that Zia is 'counting time' at the moment), a surprised but pleased low sound of some species between a moan and a sigh comes from her, and her hand that was on the bed finds his shoulder to half-embrace him for better balance. She doesn't allow the shift to disrupt the kissing at all. ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2001 12:32:04 -0800 (PST) On 02-11-2001 at 12:28:03 FailSafe Said As CAoL Message # 00009286 >On Fri, 09 Feb 2001 16:53:12 -0800 >Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009277 > >^"Senior Guardian we will need the Game of If delivered here {}. If >you need or want assistance in that I will be happy to aid you."^ >Aurora sends to the Senior Guardian of If. ^ Very well, I will bring it Myself.^ >Then she contacts Nemo. /^"I have notified the Senior Guardian of If >to deliver the artifact to the Sevens, at {} this location. When it >is delivered I will notify you that it is time to shift the vault. >When the vault is shifted, I will incapacitate the guards, and >retrieve the artifact when it returns, sans vault."^/ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Rooms Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2001 12:47:06 -0800 (PST) On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 11:29:33 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009287 >On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 07:54:12 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009285 >>On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 02:50:06 PST >>Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009284 >> >>"We are as private as you wish to be. That, I can assure you of. But >>the *appearance* of privacy is almost as important as the actuality, >>is it not?" > >Zia grins. "The actuality is fairly important, but yes, the >appearance is also good." Actually, I was thinking more along the lines of "Even though Nemo *could* ensure privacy in the middle of a crowd, or a public square, unless Zia is a lot more of an exhibitionist than I think, she'd be more comfortable someplace that 'felt' private." I just couldn't figure out a good way to have Nemo say it. >The pressure is gentle, but she does take some advantage of >temporarily being a shade higher, since she is sitting on the bed, >and he was kneeling. After all, if you're not tall, might as well >enjoy those situations where height differences are changed by most >agreeable circumstances. Nemo responds to the kiss eagerly, perhaps even enthusiasticly. But at the same time, he's careful to "follow" Zia's lead. And he's very good at following. >A few seconds later (not that Zia is 'counting time' at the moment), >a surprised but pleased low sound of some species between a moan and >a sigh comes from her, and her hand that was on the bed finds his >shoulder to half-embrace him for better balance. She doesn't allow >the shift to disrupt the kissing at all. Nemo's arms enfold her in a gentle but firm hug, while continuing the kiss. His arms support Zia easily, but allow her to shift as she wishes. He exerts a small pressure (it barely qualifies as a "nudge") to the side and back towards the bed. If Zia goes along with it, they'll wind up stretches across the bed with Zia on top. And still the kiss continues. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE: Blue Tiled Rooms Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2001 15:40:41 -0800 (PST) On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 15:37:13 -0800 (PST) Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009289 >On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 11:29:33 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009287 >>On Sun, 11 Feb 2001 07:54:12 -0800 (PST) >>Ziactrice Roaming Said As CAoL Message # 00009285 >>Zia grins. "The actuality is fairly important, but yes, the >>appearance is also good." > > >Actually, I was thinking more along the lines of "Even though Nemo >*could* ensure privacy in the middle of a crowd, or a public square, >unless Zia is a lot more of an exhibitionist than I think, she'd be >more comfortable someplace that 'felt' private." > >I just couldn't figure out a good way to have Nemo say it. > Well, that wouldn't have been a bad way. I intrepreted that as something completely different. No biggie. :) As for Zia - well, that depends. If Nemo wanted 'her own' reactions, she would not be any trace of exhibitionistic. If she were 'performing' for some reason or other, however, she wouldn't mind. However, I don't think her 'acting' the part is what he wants, so this is preferable. >Nemo's arms enfold her in a gentle but firm hug, while continuing the >kiss. His arms support Zia easily, but allow her to shift as she >wishes. She brings her hand, since it's now free of his, up and returns the embrace in like kind, then. >He exerts a small pressure (it barely qualifies as a "nudge") to the >side and back towards the bed. If Zia goes along with it, they'll >wind up stretches across the bed with Zia on top. Well, she _is_ an actress; she can certainly take a cue. Particularly if it is such a good idea in her own opinion as well. Zia follows the gentle nudge around, and down as Nemo rises and moves himself between her and the bed, in a soft rustle of silk as her long split skirt slides over the under-leggings. >And still the kiss continues. I'll take this to Risque now; even though both are fully clothed still, there are folks who've indicated they'd rather not read too much detail. So, you can either 'let it fade to black', or follow the story on over to the Risque list where it'll belong. :) ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Mon, 12 Feb 2001 22:24:05 -0800 (PST) On Mon, 12 Feb 2001 22:05:03 -0800 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009293 >On Fri, 09 Feb 2001 16:53:12 -0800 >Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009277 > >Then she contacts Nemo. /^"I have notified the Senior Guardian of If >to deliver the artifact to the Sevens, at {} this location. When it >is delivered I will notify you that it is time to shift the vault. >When the vault is shifted, I will incapacitate the guards, and >retrieve the artifact when it returns, sans vault."^/ > >/*"Mike, Tink, I have passed your instructions on to the Senior >Guardian and to Nemo. I shall stand by for your signal."*/ She >finishes. /Ah, okay, so what do I do with _this_ thing?/ Eric sends, adding the image of him waving the plain box in the air in front of him. /And I do believe,/ a familiar voice sends, /that _that_ is my cue./ A Defender-split appears near Eric. /"Hi, Eric. I'm going to take you into a pocket realm, so we can reappear where needed."/ Defender smiles gently. /"Unless you'd rather go home now? You've more than repaid any debt you imagined you owe me."/ "You Wyrm-kissing con-man," Eric shoots back, but his tone indicates that he clearly doesn't mean it. "You knew this would happen." Defender blinks, genuinely lost. /"Mind trying that one again, in English this time?"/ "These 'Callahanians!' You _knew_ what would happen!" Eric grouses. Mew giggles. Roland blushes (tm), but chuckles at the same time. /"Well, I didn't _know_ what would happen. But I know the Place."/ "Meaning?" /"The Place has this tendency to 'heal' people."/ Roland thinks about this a moment. /"More to the point, people meet all of these empathic, caring folx who are good listeners, and it tends to let them open up. I think you can do the math from there."/ Eric grimaces. He has a hard time maintaining it, though. "You're a lot sneakier than you let on, immortal." Roland blinks as reality warps around them. /"Did you just give me a professional compliment?!?"/ Eric's grimace turns into a sly smile as they fade out. "Hey, _you're_ the one who introduced me to this bunch of lunatics." The last thing anyone in the castle hears from them is Roland's laughter. ================================= Subject: AAE6: Nemisis and Caprice Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001 16:46:20 -0800 (PST) On 02-14-2001 at 16:44:53 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009297 Either in the Kitchen, or When Caprice is departing from that location. Nemisis approaches Caprice " Lady Caprice, I have waited a long time to have a chance to ask you for Guidance, Whenever the subject came up before, The Situation would not allow a Discussion." " My creator unsurprisingly embedded his own Cultural Matrix, In my root programming. I have heard You espouse a different value set, Which I am unequipped to understand at this time." " Lord Fuzzy's basic Cultural Imprint could be called, 'The Wise Predator', I have noticed that many of its basic assumptions, Do not truely match my nature." " Could you aid me in learning what Other Standards there are, and The basic assumptions that they rest on?" ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6: Nemisis and Caprice Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001 17:39:06 -0800 (PST) On Wed, 14 Feb 2001 20:31:54 -0500 (EST) caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00009298 >On 02-14-2001 at 16:44:53 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009297 In the kitchen, Caprice has fixed herself a sandwich, and she and Essex are currently sitting and sipping tea while Mischief gleefully plays amongst the ankles of those in the room. >Nemisis approaches Caprice > >" Lady Caprice, > I have waited a long time to have a chance to ask you for Guidance, > Whenever the subject came up before, > The Situation would not allow a Discussion." > >" My creator unsurprisingly embedded his own Cultural Matrix, > In my root programming. > I have heard You espouse a different value set, > Which I am unequipped to understand at this time." > >" Lord Fuzzy's basic Cultural Imprint could be called, > 'The Wise Predator', > I have noticed that many of its basic assumptions, > Do not truely match my nature." > >" Could you aid me in learning what Other Standards there are, and > The basic assumptions that they rest on?" Essex just looks... horrified. Cornered perhaps. Caprice's face on the other hand lights up as she pulls out a chair for Nemisis to sit in. Caprice takes a sip of tea before beginning, "Cultures, values, ethics and morals... this discussion could go on for a while. Each culture has its own set of assumptions. From these assumptions the rest evolves. My... personas encompass hundreds of worlds. The assumptions of which are often contradictory. Therefore my own personal ethics and morals are a... synthesis based on what reconciliations my personas can reach." Caprice takes a sip of tea, "If you like, we can go through the cultures I have experience of, analyzing each in turn." At this Essex begins to look around the room, either searching for a way to flee, or looking for a wall to beat his head against. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6: Nemisis and Caprice Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001 19:38:52 -0800 (PST) On Wed, 14 Feb 2001 22:26:29 EST Scott Osborne Said As CAoL Message # 00009299 In a message dated 2/14/01 5:39:31 PM Pacific Standard Time, caprice writes: >Caprice takes a sip of tea, "If you like, we can go through the >cultures I have experience of, analyzing each in turn." > >At this Essex begins to look around the room, either searching for a >way to flee, or looking for a wall to beat his head against. From somewhere, a voice can be heard muttering, "If this isn't a perfect opportunity to acquire a worthy opponent, I don't know what is." Scott walks in, still reading "The Adventures of Ferris Bueller". He looks up at Essex. "Good day, Dr. Essex; could I interest you in a nice game of n-th dimensional checkers?" ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6: Nemisis and Caprice Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001 10:32:17 -0800 (PST) On 02-15-2001 at 10:30:39 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009300 >On Wed, 14 Feb 2001 20:31:54 -0500 (EST) >caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00009298 > >>On 02-14-2001 at 16:44:53 >>Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009297 > >>" Could you aid me in learning what Other Standards there are, and >> The basic assumptions that they rest on?" > >Essex just looks... horrified. Cornered perhaps. Caprice's face on >the other hand lights up as she pulls out a chair for Nemisis to sit >in. Nemisis Sits. >Caprice takes a sip of tea, "If you like, we can go through the >cultures I have experience of, analyzing each in turn." What ever you think Best, As I said I am Ignorant enough, To have no data from which to form a valid Opinion. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6: Nemisis and Caprice Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001 17:00:59 -0800 (PST) On Thu, 15 Feb 2001 07:51:25 -0500 Caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00009301 >On Wed, 14 Feb 2001 22:26:29 EST >Scott Osborne Said As CAoL Message # 00009299 > >Scott walks in, still reading "The Adventures of Ferris Bueller". He >looks up at Essex. "Good day, Dr. Essex; could I interest you in a >nice game of n-th dimensional checkers?" Essex looks like a drowning man who has just been thrown a life preserver. "Certainly. Shall we go looking for a set?" He rises to his feet, giving Nemisis and Caprice a deep bow, "Excuse me, Ladies..." And then leaves the room as quickly as he can while still being polite. Once far enough down the hallway as to be out of Caprice's earshot, Essex gives a sigh of relief. "Caprice can be a dear... but during my... redemptiion we had a very long... talk. Where she had me tear my world-view down to its basic assumptions, challange each assumption, and then build things back up again from what resulted. I would rather spend a couple of nice quiet hours on a rack being tortured with red-hot irons than go through /that/ again." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6: Nemisis and Caprice Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001 19:11:01 -0800 (PST) On Thu, 15 Feb 2001 21:41:38 EST Scott Osborne Said As CAoL Message # 00009302 >On Thu, 15 Feb 2001 07:51:25 -0500 >Caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00009301 > >Once far enough down the hallway as to be out of Caprice's earshot, >Essex gives a sigh of relief. "Caprice can be a dear... but during >my... redemptiion we had a very long... talk. Where she had me tear >my world-view down to its basic assumptions, challange each >assumption, and then build things back up again from what resulted. I >would rather spend a couple of nice quiet hours on a rack being >tortured with red-hot irons than go through /that/ again." "I know how you feel. I have to deal with somebody like that on a regular basis. Or at least, I used to. You really interested in a game of n-th dimensional checkers? I've got a tournament board I've been wanting to try out for quite some time now. I'm also willing to play most games, although I must warn you: for certain kinds of games, I'm the worst kind of player; I always win, barring perfect play on the part of my opponent." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6: Nemisis and Caprice Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001 08:38:52 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 16 Feb 2001 07:24:21 -0500 "Caprice" Said As CAoL Message # 00009303 >On 02-15-2001 at 10:30:39 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009300 > >>On Wed, 14 Feb 2001 20:31:54 -0500 (EST) >>caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00009298 *snip* >>Caprice takes a sip of tea, "If you like, we can go through the >>cultures I have experience of, analyzing each in turn." > >What ever you think Best, > As I said I am Ignorant enough, > To have no data from which to form a valid Opinion. Caprice fixes a pot of tea, and settles down for a long talk with Nemisis. [OOC: Sorry, but I just don't have the time to right up hundreds of cultures. ;) Especially since I'm running late on getting out of the house. Laters!] ================================= Subject: AAE6:Scott and Essex (was: Nemisis and Caprice) Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001 08:38:56 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 16 Feb 2001 07:21:21 -0500 "Caprice" Said As CAoL Message # 00009304 >On Thu, 15 Feb 2001 21:41:38 EST >Scott Osborne Said As CAoL Message # 00009302 > >"I know how you feel. I have to deal with somebody like that on a >regular basis. Or at least, I used to. You really interested in a >game of n-th dimensional checkers? I've got a tournament board I've >been wanting to try out for quite some time now. I'm also willing to >play most games, although I must warn you: for certain kinds of >games, I'm the worst kind of player; I always win, barring perfect >play on the part of my opponent." Essex chuckles, "I make no claims to perfection, but I'll be glad to help you break in the board... then perhaps we can look for something that puts us more on a level playing field." [Sorry for the brevity, be back on Monday] ================================= Subject: Re: AAE6:Scott and Essex (was: Nemisis and Caprice) Date: Fri, 16 Feb 2001 10:40:39 -0800 (PST) On Fri, 16 Feb 2001 12:21:36 EST Scott Osborne Said As CAoL Message # 00009305 In a message dated 2/16/01 8:39:20 AM Pacific Standard Time, caprice writes: >Essex chuckles, "I make no claims to perfection, but I'll be glad to >help you break in the board... then perhaps we can look for something >that puts us more on a level playing field." "Okay, this way." And with that Scott, leads Essex to the briefing room. Once they arrive, Scott points out his 'tournament board'. Imagine, if you will, a square holographic projector, with a large panel of controls at either end, attached to an object, that for all the world, looks like a pickle barrel. "Eh, what can I say? The people who built it had a weird sense of humor. Shall we begin?" And with that, let us leave these two, and hope that Fuzzy gets his act together in starting the finale. ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Mon, 26 Feb 2001 20:51:13 -0800 (PST) On Mon, 26 Feb 2001 23:40:06 -0500 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009324 OOC: Erk, okay, been wondering why nothing happened here. Went back to reread some posts and found my email program'd cut off stuff starting with a <, thinking it was HTML. >On 02-11-2001 at 12:28:03 >FailSafe Said As CAoL Message # 00009286 > >>On Fri, 09 Feb 2001 16:53:12 -0800 >>Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009277 >> >>Then she contacts Nemo. /^"I have notified the Senior Guardian of If >>to deliver the artifact to the Sevens, at {} this location. When it >>is delivered I will notify you that it is time to shift the vault. >>When the vault is shifted, I will incapacitate the guards, and >>retrieve the artifact when it returns, sans vault."^/ > > Will be moved right along with the Vault... > Of course Alarms will ring and they will start Chasing you, > As soon as they get back (a few MicroSeconds Later)... > With the Sevens already in place and braced, > Effectively the 'Eye of Heaven' can not arrive, and > will Rebound near instantly to the Center of its Home Cosm, > ie: where the Vault is now.> > >>/*"Mike, Tink, I have passed your instructions on to the Senior >>Guardian and to Nemo. I shall stand by for your signal."*/ She >>finishes. /Thank you, Aurora,/ Mike sent back. OOC: Ignore this if we don't want to wait this long. Mike and Tink settled in aboard ship, waiting for the Guardians of If, and while they're at it, waiting out the twenty days left on Roger's little predicament the High King warned them of. From Tink's perspective, this was an eternity. She spent her days aboard ship first getting ahead on her homework, then when there wasn't anymore homework, she started replicating parts from the pedestal replicator. Michael, who'd spent most of his time Writing, the capital W was because he wasn't just setting words to paper, but attempting to recreate a linking book of Voyd's from her memories, finally found out what Tinkerbell was doing with all the spare parts. She'd built a 1999 Volkswagon Beetle from anything in her room that hadn't been bolted down and could be reduced to energy. After an hour of admiring the ingenuity and quality of the work, Mike made her take it apart and return all the stuff to its original forms. He had run a tricorder over it to grab the full design, including a few impressive modifications, though, before he made her take it down. When she was sixteen, he figured it'd make a good present. Finally, just as the time was up, perhaps aware of the trouble Roger was in, the Guardians of If arrived with their artifact. OOC: Either way, continue here... Mike was naturally happy to have the Senior Guardian observe the final combination of artifacts. Warning everyone onboard ship, they jumped to their final point with a minor flash of light and harmless energy. /Okay,/ Michael sent, standing next to the Game of If with the Quantum Shield around his neck, /We're ready. Bring in the Vault./ ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001 00:43:59 -0800 (PST) On 02-27-2001 at 00:41:31 Inspector_Ironfounderson Said As CAoL Message # 00009326 >On Mon, 26 Feb 2001 23:40:06 -0500 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009324 > >OOC: Erk, okay, been wondering why nothing happened here. Went back >to reread some posts and found my email program'd cut off stuff >starting with a <, thinking it was HTML. programmer via HTML for providing no way to turn that "feature" off> OOC: Well these things happen, And here I thought it was just everyone being Quiet, So as not to disturb Zia and Nemo... ;) > /Thank you, Aurora,/ Mike sent back. > >OOC: Ignore this if we don't want to wait this long. > Mike and Tink settled in aboard ship, waiting for the Guardians >of If, and while they're at it, waiting out the twenty days left on >Roger's little predicament the High King warned them of. When Mike comments on this plan, Inspector Ironfounderson speaks up " If I understood My briefing on that Issue, You might want to make that 18 or 19 days, As After the Birthday Event is past you will want to prove that, The Keystone was reassembled Before the Birthday, Otherwise they will be Hunting him for the Next Thousand Years... It is best if the Reassembly is Done before 'Birthday', but That they do not know that it was until afterward." > Finally, just as the time was up, perhaps aware of the trouble >Roger was in, the Guardians of If arrived with their artifact. > >OOC: Either way, continue here... > Mike was naturally happy to have the Senior Guardian observe the >final combination of artifacts. Warning everyone onboard ship, they >jumped to their final point with a minor flash of light and harmless >energy. > /Okay,/ Michael sent, standing next to the Game of If with the >Quantum Shield around his neck, /We're ready. Bring in the Vault./ OOC: For those who know the reference, Figure this ship as Kin to the Ships of the Agents in The Book 'Agent of Vega'. OOC: If this won't bother Zia and Nemo, Fuzzy would feel it was appropriate at the symbolic Level, That someone was having fun during his reassembly. Inspector Ironfounderson of Imperial Oversight. ================================= Subject: What's Xander doing? Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001 09:08:59 -0800 (PST) On Tue, 27 Feb 2001 11:52:11 -0500 "Xander Opal" Said As CAoL Message # 00009328 After the delivery of a ghostly fellow and a Fuzzy piece, and the removed Lens is again in place, a page goes out for Xander to make haste to the Control Room. "This recording was just sent through the X-window from The Place," a tech tells hir, as he hits a playback button. "...Me...conians break...ugh. ...reinforcements... ...nyone hearing this, please help." "It repeats," the tech notes. "Universe co-ordinates are-" "I know where that is-- I get some of my maintenance done in that ficton!" sie interrupts before sprinting for the door, growling something about 'trigger-happy morons'. ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001 09:37:50 -0800 (PST) On Tue, 27 Feb 2001 08:13:25 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009329 >On 02-27-2001 at 00:41:31 >Inspector_Ironfounderson Said As CAoL Message # 00009326 > >>>>/*"Mike, Tink, I have passed your instructions on to the Senior >>>>Guardian and to Nemo. I shall stand by for your signal."*/ She >>>>finishes. Nemo's acknowledgement is noticeably stiffer (more mechanical?) than normal. As if his "humanity" was elsewhere. >> /Okay,/ Michael sent, standing next to the Game of If with the >>Quantum Shield around his neck, /We're ready. Bring in the Vault./ > >OOC: For those who know the reference, > Figure this ship as Kin to the Ships of the Agents in > The Book 'Agent of Vega'. I should, but it's been too long. >OOC: If this won't bother Zia and Nemo, > Fuzzy would feel it was appropriate at the symbolic Level, > That someone was having fun during his reassembly. Cute. Well, if Zia has no objections... Consider it done at an appropriately "climactic" point in that sidestory. :-) ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001 19:36:42 -0800 (PST) On Tue, 27 Feb 2001 19:36:13 -0800 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009333 Michael Seven wrote: >Mike was naturally happy to have the Senior Guardian observe the >final combination of artifacts. Warning everyone onboard ship, they >jumped to their final point with a minor flash of light and harmless >energy. > /Okay,/ Michael sent, standing next to the Game of If with the >Quantum Shield around his neck, /We're ready. Bring in the Vault./ /*"Nemo, it is time. Shift the vault now."*/ Aurora sends. ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001 03:06:04 -0800 (PST) On Tue, 27 Feb 2001 22:21:57 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009335 >On Tue, 27 Feb 2001 19:36:13 -0800 >Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009333 > >/*"Nemo, it is time. Shift the vault now."*/ Aurora sends. And in a heavily guarded section of one of the realms, space twists upon itself. A near infinite gravity gradient appears between the gaurds and the vault. Then, once they can no longer see that volume of space, it moves to the location where it is expected. ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001 09:59:36 -0800 (PST) On 02-28-2001 at 09:56:37 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009338 >On Tue, 27 Feb 2001 22:21:57 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009335 > >And in a heavily guarded section of one of the realms, space twists >upon itself. A near infinite gravity gradient appears between the >gaurds and the vault. Then, once they can no longer see that volume >of space, it moves to the location where it is expected. Grumble... grumble... The Guard Fleet is inside the area of effect of, The Multiple Reality Stabilizers designed to prevent any Dimensional transits/gates/shifts/distorts/etc, OK, I acknowledge that *NEMO* or the Adult StarDragon could anyway, But nothing less should be able to force the issue... Moving the whole volume bypasses the Stabilizers, Since the Shift is not inside their area of effect... Your Gravity cloak could enclose the whole area 'including the fleet', So they can not see to determine which realm the area was moved to, Which will slow them down in trying to track the Sevens... Not that the Sevens are anywhere near the point of arrival, Of the vault, They only have to be in the Same Realm... And as soon as Aurora grabs The Eye of Heaven and leaves, The Vault can be put back were it was... ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2001 20:12:16 -0800 (PST) On Wed, 28 Feb 2001 20:11:30 -0800 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009340 >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009335 > >And in a heavily guarded section of one of the realms, space twists >upon itself. A near infinite gravity gradient appears between the >gaurds and the vault. Then, once they can no longer see that volume >of space, it moves to the location where it is expected. As the volume of space containing the vault, and the guards, shifts out of it's native Cosm, Aurora sends three pulses of magic after each one of the ships in the guardian fleet, through a fifth spacial dimension, the ships are hit with the magic from directions that they didn't even know existed. The first pulse neutralizes ANY magical defenses that the ship might have. The second puts all the crews to sleep (even those that don't sleep, kind of like suspended animation). The third wraps each of the ships with a powerful defensive shield to prevent any ship from being damaged by accident or purposeful action. As the volume of space enters the Cosm where the Game of IF and the Quantum Shield are waiting, the Eye of Heaven "bounces" back to its native Cosm. Where Aurora is waiting for it. A moment later both she and the Eye of Heaven appear in the Castle. ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001 03:36:47 -0800 (PST) On Thu, 1 Mar 2001 00:34:25 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009344 >On 02-28-2001 at 09:56:37 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009338 > >>On Tue, 27 Feb 2001 22:21:57 PST >>Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009335 >> >>And in a heavily guarded section of one of the realms, space twists >>upon itself. A near infinite gravity gradient appears between the >>gaurds and the vault. Then, once they can no longer see that volume >>of space, it moves to the location where it is expected. > >Grumble... grumble... > >The Guard Fleet is inside the area of effect of, > The Multiple Reality Stabilizers designed to prevent any > Dimensional transits/gates/shifts/distorts/etc, > OK, I acknowledge that *NEMO* or the Adult StarDragon could > anyway, > But nothing less should be able to force the issue... > Moving the whole volume bypasses the Stabilizers, > Since the Shift is not inside their area of effect... I couldn't recall the details of the setup. That will work just fine. >Your Gravity cloak could enclose the whole area 'including the >fleet', > So they can not see to determine which realm the area was moved to, > Which will slow them down in trying to track the Sevens... The idea was basicly that *nothing* gets in or out, at least via "normal" means, without getting ripping to shreds (if material) or scrambled all to hell (if energy). And make that a screen at both the original location and the destination. That way they can't *tell* that there's been a move. > Not that the Sevens are anywhere near the point of arrival, > Of the vault, > They only have to be in the Same Realm... > >And as soon as Aurora grabs The Eye of Heaven and leaves, > The Vault can be put back were it was... Which, they'll not be sure that it left. :-) ================================= Subject: Re: Time for AAE6i Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001 09:10:43 -0800 (PST) On Thu, 1 Mar 2001 11:59:14 -0500 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009348 >On 02-27-2001 at 00:41:31 >Inspector_Ironfounderson Said As CAoL Message # 00009326 > >>On Mon, 26 Feb 2001 23:40:06 -0500 >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009324 >> >> Mike and Tink settled in aboard ship, waiting for the Guardians >>of If, and while they're at it, waiting out the twenty days left on >>Roger's little predicament the High King warned them of. > >When Mike comments on this plan, Inspector Ironfounderson speaks up >" If I understood My briefing on that Issue, > You might want to make that 18 or 19 days, > As After the Birthday Event is past you will want to prove that, > The Keystone was reassembled Before the Birthday, > Otherwise they will be Hunting him for the Next Thousand Years... > It is best if the Reassembly is Done before 'Birthday', but > That they do not know that it was until afterward." After Ironfounderson explains, Mike smacks himself on the forehead. "Oh, of course." Tink looks confused, "What?" "Birthday, reincarnation, just suddenly all sunk in," he says to Tink, then adds to Ironfounderson, "Sorry, I'm dense sometimes. Reincarnation is a semi-alien concept for me. The birthday is when our dead friend is scheduled to be reborn, which we need to prove doesn't require the Shield to happen, as is believed, but will happen automaticly. Took me a while to grasp the point of hiding for the length of time we were. Okay, I think I'm on the same page now as everyone else." And so, they wait... =================================