Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 9 Chapter 11 Subject: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Fri, 21 Nov 2003 22:41:36 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011545 >On Thu, 20 Nov 2003 22:49:43 -0800 >Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00011535 > >"So, if I understand it, while one group concentrates on healing Suli >San, the rest of us ensure that the rest of the combatants do not >interfere, yes?" Defender nods. "That, in a nutshell, is it. The tactical goal is to keep the individual forces guessing -- particularly Omen, as much as that's possible, as well as any other invaders from outside the Apokolips realm." The team leader consults briefly with the Champions and the visitors; except for Orion, they will apparently be going on separate missions (Endymion working with the Champions). (Insert AJ47's timer going off here) /"And that's our cue. Everybody lock and load."/ OOC: If anyone needs to perform a last-minute preparation, it goes here. /"All right. Hydra, bring us in {} here on my mark. Stations, everyone."/ There are platforms for fliers to take off from, and a long, silvery boat-like hovercraft for a rapid "landing" of ground forces. /"Everyone ready?"/ Defender asks one last time. Since everyone's already responded affirmatively, unless there's a last-second need, he nods. The leader is on the farthest-protruding platform, crouched like a diver ready to swim. The rest of the team is arrayed around and behind him, Solitaire and Silver Phoenix on either side, Dhyrclhanc behind and above; the quartet is an impressive sight. /"Hydra...NOW!"/ * * * Kalibak frowns, tapping one palm with the massive Beta Club. "Are you certain they will come to us, father?" Amazo scowls at his 'brother,' fist glowing with the emerald light of Oa. "Why do you even bother, Kalibak? If Darkseid orders us to prepare for these Champions, then the Champions will be coming to face us. Besides," he adds, a more knowing look forming on his face, "these self-styled 'superheroes' have honor and courage. Perhaps too much of the latter. No matter the odds against them, they will come." "Bah," Kalibak replies, slashing his Beta Club for emphasis. It whistles through the air dramatically. "Then we will _crush_ them!" "Of course," Amazo agrees. The two look at each other, then grin in unison -- and not entirely with malice. It is good, they decide, to have a brother that one is not trying to kill. Suli, floating in her bubble of power, smiles faintly (if manically). "There are more forms of victory," Darkseid replies, surprising even Amazo, "than to crush one's enemies. It all depends..." With a crashing BOOM, Champions Island appears above the ravaged land. "...on what you desire," Darkseid finishes with a terrible smile. Parademons, in the air once more (thanks to adjustments to their flight suits), dog soldiers, and prisoner-slaves all stare in astonishment at the island floating in the sky. /"ATTACK!"/ Defender roars, and the heroes descend like thunderbolts -- literally, in Defender's case. As he rockets down like Zeus' vengeance, the Champion creates dozens of energy bolts -- force, heat, lightning, magnetic -- which fly out, knocking parademons from the sky. They crash together as flight packs suddenly attract one another, sprawl through the sky, find their weapons flying out of their hands or melting, or just plummet as their equipment shorts out. Return fire twists and shapes itself into cages, walls, anvils, and other inconveniences. Kalibak roars back. "YES! _Face_ me, you coward!" Astro-force strikes him full in the face, sending the Scourge of Apokolips sprawling. "YOU dare speak of COWARDICE, you CUR?!" Orion snarls, riding his Astro-Glider straight into Kalibak. The two ancient foes spiral into one of the bunkers. Weapons fly from soldiers to prisoners as Defender lands amid cheers from the sparse populace and howls of fear from the soldiers of Darkseid's war machine. "Run," Defender tells them all as he lands, and neither side has to be told twice. The intended Hunger Dogs return fire as they fall back, but none of the 'extras' want to be near Defender right now, no matter how much the rescued want to help him. Amazo is coming. Defender watches placidly, his power still twisting in the air to turn even flying battleships aside (which it does). The Island opens up with a vast array of stunner batteries onto the entire battlefield, missing only those allied forces that might be inconvenienced by them. It begins to "rain" azure drops of light on both Defender and Amazo, who ignore the hail of power, such is their might. The one-man Justice League floats over, staring down at the hero as Defender meets his gaze evenly. "So," Amazo says, noting the fields that block his ability to copy the Champion's powers, but saying nothing more. "So," Defender replies simply. They fly at one another... ================================= Subject: AAE9: Champions and Storm Knights On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 00:28:38 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011546 A short while before the assault. "So we'll be taking out the fire pit," Seeker not-quite-asked, gesturing to the unassigned Champions (himself, Quantum, Obsidian, and Jaguar) and Endymion. "While we look for the stelae," Hachi-Mara Two added. Defender nodded. "Seeker, you take the remaining Champions, plus Endymion," that with a nod to the Superman-alike, who nods back with a smile, "and have Quantum 'port you under the complex. Find out what powers the thing, then take it or them out." "You suspect that this 'fire pit' conceals this High Lord's stelae, then?" Tolwyn asked as she performed basic maintenance on her sword, a beautiful work that positively glowed with magic for those who have the senses for it. "I just hope that it _isn't_ the stelae," Defender replied. Green Lantern winced while Father Bryce fingered a cross dangling from a rosary around his neck. Kurst rumbled in a not-unfriendly manner, like an enormous wolf breathing heavily. "That would be impressive, even for an ally of the Gaunt Man's." "Not _too_ close an ally, I hope," Mara replied. Kurst slowly slid an arm around the cyber-hacker's waist, which she hugged gratefully. Roland very carefully did not smile. [Ah,] he thought, several mental questions answering themselves. As the groups prepared their infiltrations -- as both were highly skilled and experienced, Defender left most of the planning to them -- he tapped Seeker on the shoulder. The Akashic Brother continued planning with Endymion and the Champions telepathically while stepping aside with his former student. "Seker," Roland began, using the older term/inflection he'd known the martial artist by, "I want you to be careful down there." Seeker grinned. "Defender, mate, when am I otherwise?" he quipped. The grin vanished when Defender frowned. ^Damnit, I'm _serious._ Darkseid may be the most dangerous foe the Champions have ever faced.^ He locked eyes with the Akashic. ^I've lost one father today. I don't want to lose another.^ Seeker, suddenly understanding, smiled more gently, clasping the Champions' leader on the shoulder. ^You're not gettin' rid o' _me_ that easily, Roland Phoenix.^ They clasped arms. Parted. Seeker wove himself back into the larger conversation seamlessly. Defender sighed. [I'm going to hold you to that, Don,] he thought grimly. Looking at Hachi Mara-Two, he sighed. He was Morgan's with all his soul, toes to scalp, but Mara had been there after Ariel had taken his heart and diced it for hors d'oeuvres. [At least I'm not jealous,] Roland thought, then looked again, and discovered that he couldn't find even a mote of envy -- only happiness that two dear friends, two people who really deserved love, had found it in each other. At that moment, the woman who had found love with Roland slipped her arms around his waist from behind, hugged him, and whispered, "Ain't love grand?" in his ear. "Sure is," Defender replied, hugging her arms and touching his head to hers. After enjoying a moment of cuddling, he sighed and extracted himself from the embrace. ^Is everyone ready?^ ^Ready as this herd o' cats ever is.^ The young Eternal nodded, distracted. ^Well, if we're going to defeat Darkseid -- by the Source, I'm leading a war against _Darkseid_ -- we've got as good a chance as I can imagine us having.^ ^This lot's at least as powerful as the one we led against Z'On'Dar at Epsilon III,^ Morgan commented. Roland smiled faintly. ^Let us hope. Though I sure wouldn't mind having some of the old-timers around, like Stranger or Mike. Hell, Driscoll'd look good right now.^ He frowned. ^I hope Roger's okay,^ he added, seemingly incongruously, listening for the repeating message. ^I'm sure Roger will show up at the most dramatically appropriate moment,^ the Druidess said with a fond mock-exasperation. She stroked his cheek, his now-azure hair where the helmet had been caved in. ^I don't suppose there's any point in asking _you_ to be careful?^ Defender favored her with a lopsided smile. ^Believe it or not, I'm always as careful as I can be. It's just that kinda gig, I guess.^ He sighed. ^And this is just the beginning.^ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 01:11:57 -0800 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00011547 >On Fri, 21 Nov 2003 22:41:36 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011545 > > Parademons, in the air once more (thanks to adjustments to their >flight suits), dog soldiers, and prisoner-slaves all stare in >astonishment at the island floating in the sky. > /"ATTACK!"/ Defender roars, and the heroes descend like >thunderbolts -- literally, in Defender's case. As he rockets down >like Zeus' vengeance, the Champion creates dozens of energy bolts >force, heat, lightning, magnetic -- which fly out, knocking >parademons from the sky. They crash together as flight packs suddenly >attract one another, sprawl through the sky, find their weapons >flying out of their hands or melting, or just plummet as their >equipment shorts out. Return fire twists and shapes itself into >cages, walls, anvils, and other inconveniences. As they descend, Harlock turns to Veren and Erin, remarking "an ye have shocking bows, this be the time to pull them out. The flying yellow beasts and the metal dogs are both vulnerable to such." He then turns to Marivale, who has been...withdrawn...since the retreat to Champion's Isle. "'Tis not the end of the world, milord Saevil." "I still find it rather insulting." "Think of it as you will, but there's no room for brooding on the field of battle." "Oh, aye, I'll do my part. But you _will_ talk to her about this appalling lapse?" "What's to talk about? She knows him. She knows you not. How would you decide in her place?" "In favor of the one who knows the target." "Now that is pure foolishness, milord. 'Tis not the target he must engage, but anybody else in the area. Besides, I've seen you in such cases. You become engrossed with studying the action. Leave it be." Marivale grumbles under his breath, but makes no further comments, concentrating on his stretches. Meanwhile, Erindrea and Veren exchange glances, followed by a mutual glare at Harlock's back. They then pull bows out of their quivers. The bows start crackling with energy as they start firing at parademons, each arrow they fire surrounded by a corona of electric sparks. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 12:45:05 -0800 (PST) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011548 >On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 01:11:57 -0800 >Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00011547 > >Marivale grumbles under his breath, but makes no further comments, >concentrating on his stretches. @Actually, Lord Saevil,@ Zia's voice comes, projected through her Lens as a whisper near his ear, as she does not wish to trespass in his mind, @I chose Eric instead of you so that if he must remove me in circumstances against the Code Duello, it will not damage his honor. He has differing tenets to his honor that will bot be impugned by such action, should it be necessary.@ @Besides, if the worst occurs and we are both in trouble, whom else could fight Kanto while a rescue was attempted? Put not all your eggs in one sack, yes?@ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 14:49:25 -0600, In alt.callahans Frank McCoy Said As CAoL Message # 00011549 In alt.callahans Roland X wrote: > The team leader consults briefly with the Champions and the >visitors; except for Orion, they will apparently be going on separate >missions (Endymion working with the Champions). > /"And that's our cue. Everybody lock and load."/ Frank takes one last check on his checklist, to which he's added the displacer and ComLink, then raises his finger to ask for a lift ..... And finds himself in the middle of a field, with two small hills, more hummocks than hills, on either side. Overhead bright specks move swiftly and purposely; but he seems alone and unnoticed. It takes him about 30 seconds to realize he's in the closest rill between hills close to the compound he has been studying ... the one holding prisoners, close to the "pit". Far closer to the compound than he had been expecting to be dropped; but a perfect match for what he wanted: As close to the compound without being inside as he could get, without being in direct view of same. *Somebody* had obviously been listening to his requests for drop-off, and 'ported him somehow to a place almost exactly matching his criteria. "Thanks", he says to midair; wondering if anybody is listening without his using the ComLink. He then prepares for the 1/4 mile crawl towards the nearest compound fence; wishing vaguely it was night instead of bright daylight. Well, at least the grass is tall. Nobody it seems is worried about people trying to get *into* the compound; only getting out. Something he hadn't been sure would be the case until now. But then, that's almost always the case with prisoners ... especially Prisoners Of War ... Almost all the guns and attention are concentrated to keep the prisoners IN. Only an idiot would try to go alone, right into he middle of an enemy camp. Well ... Frank never really considered himself to be the brightest bulb on the string. Thank Goodness the camouflage seems to match the current terrain fairly well. In mirror-tests, he'd found that he didn't seem to show up on heat sensitive cameras, scopes, and devices ... one of his major worries. Whether that's an effect of one off fuzzy's tech/magic items, something else he's carrying, or the camo suit itself, probably doesn't matter. Anyway, it's daytime; and he probably wouldn't be visible to a heat-scope anyway. One LONG wriggle in the heat of the day, coming up. Super Strength and durability come in handy for things OTHER than out-and-out brawls. Probably ten minutes or more to get into position. Now *where* the bloody hell are those sentries? They have to be someplace; and most likely at corners, if any exist. Will there be towers at each corner? Most likely. Of course, a not-so-obvious choice might be one tall tower in the middle. Well, he'll find out ... most likely the hard way. First thing though, to get close enough to examine the "fence" whatever it is, whether barbed and razor-wire, a force-fence, dome-shield or some combination of the above. Each has it's own strengths and weaknesses; and Frank *thinks* he has come with a "solution" for each one. Thinks. Well, tech is his thing, besides puzzles and fixing things ... anything. Often even things he doesn't understand fully. Things are (usually) built in logical manners for the ease of the people using them. On this escapade, he thinks maybe his empathy will come in handy more than tech skills. He could be wrong. "No plan survives contact with the enemy." Frank crawls on; barely noticing the sparks now flying overhead as the battle heats up. One particularly large piece of debris lands with an earth-shaking "THUMP" about half a mile away. Thankfully it doesn't start a grass file or land on him. Even with the protections he's carrying, having several TONS of half-molten armor plate land on one at several hundred miles an hour could be *seriously* distracting, if not fatal. Frank wonders how the rest of the battle is going ... but figures it isn't really his worry. Time to scope out the prisoner compound. "Anybody else know who or what is guarding this thing?" he inquires fairly quietly into the ComLink? So far, all he sees is a clear area outside the "fence", rows of something that could be razor or barbed wire ... and some kind of faint shimmering between them that *could* be the electronic fence or shield he had been expecting. After all, why build a permanent chain-link fence, when you have cheaper and more effective barriers that only take energy and a post or two to erect? Such things don't bother him ... but people, beings, guards of *some* kind must be watching the perimeter, if only the inside. Who or what, he has to find out, before they find him. If worst-comes-to-worst, he'll get inside the compound and *ask* one of the prisoners there ... But that's a last resort. Scouting ... Frank pulls out the Isher Weapon and looks over the compound, examining prisoners, layout, and possible guards from the tiny ditch he found ... more of a plow-furrow than a ditch; but it covers him ... especially with a few clods and other dirt pulled on to. The hat now has grass pulled into the band, so Frank looks just like another hump of dirt to anybody more than three feet away. Those Camouflage Training Courses they give you in the Marines really do work. Study first, THEN act. Damn, but it's getting hot out here. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Sun, 23 Nov 2003 02:11:16 -0800 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00011552 >On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 12:45:05 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011548 > >>On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 01:11:57 -0800 >>Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00011547 >> >>Marivale grumbles under his breath, but makes no further comments, >>concentrating on his stretches. > >@Actually, Lord Saevil,@ Zia's voice comes, projected through her >Lens as a whisper near his ear, as she does not wish to trespass in >his mind, @I chose Eric instead of you so that if he must remove me >in circumstances against the Code Duello, it will not damage his >honor. He has differing tenets to his honor that will not be impugned >by such action, should it be necessary.@ Marivale turns to face Ziactrice, sullen resentment plainly written on his face. >@Besides, if the worst occurs and we are both in trouble, whom else >could fight Kanto while a rescue was attempted? Put not all your eggs >in one sack, yes?@ He gestures: a fencer acknowledging a touch. He still looks sullen, but some of the resentment has faded. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Sun, 23 Nov 2003 15:32:02 -0800 Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00011553 >On Fri, 21 Nov 2003 22:41:36 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011545 > > /"Everyone ready?"/ Defender asks one last time. "As Henry might say, I am ready to...'kick butt and take manes'." "Names." someone else amends. "Yes, names." > /"ATTACK!"/ Defender roars, and the heroes descend like >thunderbolts -- "For Sommerlund and the Kai." Patrick replies, readying his bow. Calling his training in Old Kingdoms battle magic to mind, he immediately starts picking off Aero-Troopers and Parademons, his magically hardened arrows punching through the Apokolypsian armor. As soon as the hovercraft touches down, Patrick jumps out, bow shouldered and sword out. First goal, he decides, is to make sure the prisoners that were just released make it to safety. He quickly heads in the direction of the closest group of prisoners, but is stopped by an imposing-looking Parademon captain. "Fistbreaker remembers you." the Parademon growls. "And Fistbreaker will repay your attack! HUNGER DOGS! KILL HIM!" Drawing his own electro-saber, Fistbreaker charges, intent on destroying the young Kai that humiliated him. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Mon, 24 Nov 2003 07:39:59 -0800 (PST) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00011554 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011545 > > /"ATTACK!"/ Defender roars, and the heroes descend like >thunderbolts -- literally, in Defender's case. As he rockets down >like Zeus' vengeance, the Champion creates dozens of energy bolts >force, heat, lightning, magnetic -- which fly out, knocking >parademons from the sky. They crash together as flight packs suddenly >attract one another, sprawl through the sky, find their weapons >flying out of their hands or melting, or just plummet as their >equipment shorts out. Return fire twists and shapes itself into >cages, walls, anvils, and other inconveniences. Before the hovercraft lands, Rob hits the ground running, with Kell close behind. Between the two of them, they claim a small section of real estate; slightly larger than needed to land the boat. [An unusual monk, but an effective one,] Kell notes. [I wonder where he learned his art?] "That does it. Now, we wait." "And if the Female Furies choose not to attack us," Kell replies while giving thanks that Rob speaks the halfling tongue fluently, "then what?" "Oh, they'll attack. If Lashina isn't mad at you for breaking her toys, it's only because she wants me dead first." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Mon, 24 Nov 2003 12:21:50 -0800 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00011555 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011545 > /"Everyone ready?"/ Defender asks one last time. Since everyone's >already responded affirmatively, unless there's a last-second need, >he nods. The leader is on the farthest-protruding platform, crouched >like a diver ready to swim. The rest of the team is arrayed around >and behind him, Solitaire and Silver Phoenix on either side, >Dhyrclhanc behind and above; the quartet is an impressive sight. >/"Hydra...NOW!"/ Space curdles slightly around the island, and suddenly it is floating above and slightly to the south of the fortress fire pit of Darkseid. /*"Your wish is my command."*/ Hydra responds with a chuckle. ================================= Subject: AAE9: The Great Escape ;^) On Mon, 24 Nov 2003 23:51:15 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011556 >On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 14:49:25 -0600, In alt.callahans >Frank McCoy Said As CAoL Message # 00011549 > >Frank takes one last check on his checklist, to which he's added the >displacer and ComLink, then raises his finger to ask for a lift ..... Quantum smiles, mostly friendly, a touch wickedly. "Hang on to your hat, kid," she says (funny, she doesn't _look_ much older than you, if at all), and points. >And finds himself in the middle of a field, with two small hills, >more hummocks than hills, on either side. Overhead bright specks move >swiftly and purposely; but he seems alone and unnoticed. *He's down and safe, boss,* Quantum sends to Defender. *Good,* Defender replies quietly. [Light be with you,] he thinks. >Frank wonders how the rest of the battle is going ... but figures it >isn't really his worry. Time to scope out the prisoner compound. > >"Anybody else know who or what is guarding this thing?" he inquires >fairly quietly into the ComLink? {Probably Dog Soldiers with Parademon leaders -- urk,} Roland replies, no doubt cut off before he intended to be. ;^) > So far, all he sees is a clear area outside the "fence", rows of >something that could be razor or barbed wire ... and some kind of >faint shimmering between them that *could* be the electronic fence or >shield he had been expecting. After all, why build a permanent >chain-link fence, when you have cheaper and more effective barriers >that only take energy and a post or two to erect? Certainly seems like it. Something that looks like a blimp appears in the distance, floating towards Frank's position...no, it's merely circling the compound. And given the too-steady way it moves, it's no blimp. Several meters behind the roughly circular energy fence are six towers, evenly spread around the compound. >If worst-comes-to-worst, he'll get inside the compound and *ask* one >of the prisoners there ... But that's a last resort. Scouting ... >Frank pulls out the Isher Weapon and looks over the compound, >examining prisoners, layout, and possible guards from the tiny ditch >he found ... more of a plow-furrow than a ditch; but it covers him >... especially with a few clods and other dirt pulled on to. The hat >now has grass pulled into the band, so Frank looks just like another >hump of dirt to anybody more than three feet away. Those Camouflage >Training Courses they give you in the Marines really do work. A pair of parademons fly towards Frank's position, but it's easy to tell that they, like the "blimp," are simply flying patrol. Apparently, Darkseid's orders are to leave nothing to chance, but the guards are clearly not expecting trouble out here. This area seems to be nothing more than a holding pen for future Hunger Dogs that are off-shift. Several squat bunkers seem proof enough of that. And as he closes, there are Dog Soldiers. _Lots_ of Dog Soldiers. About as smart as the average Third-World grunt at best, but much tougher and a _lot_ better armed... -- Evil GM-San You think you've got it bad, wait until you see what happens to the two men waiting for the Furies to come down on them... ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 00:07:24 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011557 >On Mon, 24 Nov 2003 07:39:59 -0800 (PST) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00011554 > > Before the hovercraft lands, Rob hits the ground running, with >Kell close behind. Between the two of them, they claim a small >section of real estate; slightly larger than needed to land the boat. >[An unusual monk, but an effective one,] Kell notes. [I wonder where >he learned his art?] > "That does it. Now, we wait." > "And if the Female Furies choose not to attack us," Kell replies >while giving thanks that Rob speaks the halfling tongue fluently, >"then what?" > "Oh, they'll attack. If Lashina isn't mad at you for breaking her >toys, it's only because she wants me dead first." "DON'T WORRY, BOYS," Lashina's vicious (albeit incongrously inviting) roar echoes from above, "THERE'S MORE THAN ENOUGH OF US TO GO AROUND!" From the looks of things, the ladies brought reinforcements. One is a super-archer, bow already nocked. Given Rob's familiarity with supers universes, he probably has a suspicion that she doesn't fire ordinary arrows. She has a robotic dog on either side of her. (Pic: http://www.sean-walsh.com/newgods/artemis.jpg ) Another is mostly in red, with several weapons floating around her. She looks a bit like the Scarlet Witch's evil twin (emphasis on evil, if the look in her eyes is any indication). (Pic: http://www.sean-walsh.com/newgods/bloody.jpg ) A third is one of the many scantily-clad blondes that seem to populate these universes. She doesn't look like the ditzy heroine type, though, given the popping sounds of air not being there any more around her hands and a very unwelcoming anticipatory smile... Finally, one in an orange bodysuit with yellow trim is almost literally humming in place, balancing on skates with ease as she waits for the chance to show off her stuff. (The last two are rear-left in this picture: http://www.sean-walsh.com/newgods/furies2.jpg ) They, and the four Furies you faced earlier, are quickly floating down on a large aero-disc. Lashina's lashes shimmer with a power almost as disconcerting as the deadly look on her face. About the only good news is that Bernadeth looks bored. Unless, of course, she just thinks this is going to be short and uninteresting. Mad Harriet and the blonde, not seeming to want to wait around, throw out their hands. The all-too-familiar power spikes fly out from Harriet's hands, while a black beam shoots out from the blonde's. The beam hits a nearby ultra-tech lamp-post, which briefly looks like a negative image of itself, then vanishes with a 'pop.' Well, as Frank pointed out, no strategy ever survives contact with the enemy... ;^) ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 03:08:42 -0800 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00011558 >On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 00:07:24 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011557 > > "DON'T WORRY, BOYS," Lashina's vicious (albeit incongrously >inviting) roar echoes from above, "THERE'S MORE THAN ENOUGH OF US TO >GO AROUND!" > From the looks of things, the ladies brought reinforcements. > One is a super-archer, bow already nocked. Given Rob's familiarity >with supers universes, he probably has a suspicion that she doesn't >fire ordinary arrows. She has a robotic dog on either side of her. Erin looks at Veren, to find that he's looking back at her. They both grin rather nastily. Without any consultation, Erin shoots the dog on the left while Veren shoots the one on the right. They also start separating in an effort to make return fire more difficult. (Semi-OOC note: kindly remember, Evil-GM-san, that they are both firing electric arrows. Last I checked, robo-dog + high-voltage feed = *error*) ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 08:12:36 -0800 (PST) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00011559 >Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00011558 > >Erin looks at Veren, to find that he's looking back at her. They both >grin rather nastily. Without any consultation, Erin shoots the dog on >the left while Veren shoots the one on the right. They also start >separating in an effort to make return fire more difficult. Rob smiles. "You aren't the only one who brought friends." The red around his hands deflects a few power spikes before he steps aside and launches it at Bernadeth. None of the Furies have seen this effect before, or they would notice the difference - instead of a coherent bolt of force, it's more like being attacked by strawberry gelatin. Extremely strong gelatin. [And that's my magic for a few hours. I hope the Crimson Bands of Cyttorak hold her.] Kell just moves in, picking a spot that leaves clear shots for everybody while letting him get in close. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 15:03:12 -0800 (PST) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011560 >>> Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011545 "Okay, I have the locale." Ziactrice says to Eric. Although it isn't actually necessary to hold hands to do the translocational effect she calls shadowshifting, she does so. The two of them emerge in whatever locale Kanto has chosen for his duel. But no one seems to be here, yet. "Hopefully, he won't keep us waiting too long... and Omen isn't anymore of aware of me than Darkseid. I wouldn't put any money down on either, though." Taking out the Mother Box, she holds it in one hand, letting Eric keep alert to external hazards. "I presume you're a rather intelligent device; please give me whatever information, in whatever form, you can, assuming a sharply limited timespan. Particular subjects of interest: the Source, Suli's recent activities, her activities before the ALE, other known holders of the ALE present in the current invasion force, anything you've overheard or managed to simulate regarding Darkseid's tactics, how the Source operates in this Shadow, and so forth. Use my Lens, I'll open as many channels as I can." "Eric, can you take a mind-feed without it distracting you too much, or should I save it to share with you later?" Ziactrice is managing to sound fairly cool, but her swords are near to her hands. Eric can tell she is ready to drop the Mother Box and defend herself in much less than a heartbeat. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: The Great Escape ;^) On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 17:11:00 -0600, In alt.callahans Frank McCoy Said As CAoL Message # 00011561 >On Mon, 24 Nov 2003 23:51:15 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Post # 00009213 > >>On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 14:49:25 -0600, In alt.callahans >>Frank McCoy Said As CAoL Message # 00011549 >> >>And finds himself in the middle of a field, with two small hills, >>more hummocks than hills, on either side. Overhead bright specks >>move swiftly and purposely; but he seems alone and unnoticed. > > *He's down and safe, boss,* Quantum sends to Defender. > *Good,* Defender replies quietly. [Light be with you,] he thinks. BTW: Don't know if anybody is listening, but: [Thanks!} he thinks intently, on the offchance that one of the TPs is. Trying to keep the ComLink chatter down. No reply is expected. >> So far, all he sees is a clear area outside the "fence", rows of >>something that could be razor or barbed wire ... and some kind of >>faint shimmering between them that *could* be the electronic fence >>or shield he had been expecting. After all, why build a permanent >>chain-link fence, when you have cheaper and more effective barriers >>that only take energy and a post or two to erect? > > Certainly seems like it. Something that looks like a blimp appears >in the distance, floating towards Frank's position...no, it's merely >circling the compound. > And given the too-steady way it moves, it's no blimp. > Several meters behind the roughly circular energy fence are six >towers, evenly spread around the compound. Frank looks closer: No, not quite circular: Generally Hexagonal. Each tower/post being the main angle; while subsidiary posts push out the boundaries to make it more nearly circular. Between each, it appears to be "flat". That means it's most likely generated between posts and towers, not from a central location. Damn. Here he'd *hoped* for the "standard human" form of building a compound, of making it *square*. It figures though that aliens might find hexagonal designs more suitable ... for them. Either one produces full packing, when several are combined; and make nice compounds, when all alone. Damn, again. Six towers when he'd hoped for only four. At his *best* he'd figured being able to take out three guard-towers, if not hero-occupied (and who would put a Hero out on the boring duty of tower-guard). That meant he'd have to get help to take out four ... and would prefer at least TWO other people to handle two while he took out two ... If it came down to that. Now it begins to look like THAT plan isn't worth shit. Getting FOUR people to help and armed, before getting caught, just didn't look all that likely. Well: "Plan B." Not get caught. >>Frank pulls out the Isher Weapon and looks over the compound, >>examining prisoners, layout, and possible guards from the tiny ditch >>he found ... more of a plow-furrow than a ditch; but it covers him >>... especially with a few clods and other dirt pulled on to. The hat >>now has grass pulled into the band, so Frank looks just like another >>hump of dirt to anybody more than three feet away. Those Camouflage >>Training Courses they give you in the Marines really do work. > > A pair of parademons fly towards Frank's position, but it's easy >to tell that they, like the "blimp," are simply flying patrol. >Apparently, Darkseid's orders are to leave nothing to chance, but the >guards are clearly not expecting trouble out here. This area seems to >be nothing more than a holding pen for future Hunger Dogs that are >off-shift. Several squat bunkers seem proof enough of that. Hmmm ... Bunkers. Well, couldn't really expect wooden huts like the Germans used in WWII. Bunkers are both a plus and a minus. Unlikely to be seen out of ... or into. Probably fairly soundproof too; though he'd bet on microphones (or equivalent) inside. The chances were some bored lieutenant (or equivalent) somewhere would be listening into conversations ... sometimes. Mealtimes and breaks along with other interruptions, and spreading attention over ... one, two, three, four, five, six, seven bunkers (OOC: Damn, these people seem to like hexagonal arrangements.) means that the chances are 10:1 about that an any *particular* time anybody would be listening in. Over an hour or two, the likelihood would approach unity, however. Gotta take that into account, and take my chances. > And as he closes, there are Dog Soldiers. _Lots_ of Dog Soldiers. >About as smart as the average Third-World grunt at best, but much >tougher and a _lot_ better armed... Frank looks closer at the perimeter. Damn again! The area outside the outer ring of barbed/razor/whatever wire isn't mowed like he thought ... but tramped down from foot traffic. It seems somebody is *using* the outside as a place to march ... if not quite a parade-ground, then at least a march-around-the-fence exercise area. Shit! The curse is silent. Not much chance of being detected where he is; but the chances of crossing that last six feet in broad daylight, undetected, is about the chance of a snail crossing the freeway. Possible, but highly unlikely. It's either wait-for-nightfall, or try Plan ... Um ... We're already up to Plan-C, and it's not looking good. Hmmm ... There's *got* to be some way to at least get *close* to the fence without sticking out like a log in the middle of the highway. Frank starts looking; moving the scope *extremely slowly and in time with the grass swaying in the wind. About a half mile away, partly around the NE corner of the compound, midway between two towers, he spots a road going in to some kind of gate and gatehouse. More chance of being spotted there ... however the hump of the road gives *some* cover; and there appears to be a culvert of some kind ... that hopefully might allow access to the fence itself, without being too obvious from either the towers or the gatehouse itself. Well ... It makes sense that they would have one or more gates into the place. Whether it will provide a "blind spot" so he can get to the fence itself without being detected, remains to be seen. There's always nightfall. Frank keeps muttering to himself, "There's always nightfall." It's hard to forget however, that a lot of the distraction of fights going on right now, that he'd counted on to use to get *inside* the compound undetected, might well be over by the time the sun set. "Well, what cannot be cured, must be endured," he mutters, sub-vocally, so even he can barely understand himself. Frank begins the long SLOW crawl back out, further away from the closer Dog-Soldiers, and then towards the (possible) entry road. A thought occurs to him about sneaking aboard one of the trucks? (OOC: What ARE those things? They look like normal trucks, except the "wheels" don't look right.) entering the compound ... but none seem right. Climbing aboard an armored vehicle full of (OOC: Oh. *THOSE* must be Dog Soldiers! Most look pretty damned human!) armed occupants, would seem to be a little at cross-purposes to "sneaking" inside. Fighting a whole WAR to get inside, wasn't exactly the whole idea ... Though "near Kryptonian strength and toughness" along with protections and the Isher Weapon might make it possible. The original *idea* was to make the big splash on the way *out*; hopefully in company with a bunch of other guys helping make the splash. Well ... OK ... You modify plans on the way the dice fall. Another "truck" or two pass by, with various loads ... None of them (yet) being covered against the weather. At least the guards won't be expecting people to sneak *IN* to the compound; being much more worried about prisoners trying to sneak out. That's the main thing that makes this whole idea possible ... If it is at all. Frank crawls slowly onward; now at a more safe distance from the compound and away from prying eyes. It will take at least an hour to get to where he can see that road going in ... and the culvert if it exists. The idea of jumping on the back of one of the passing trucks seems more and more attractive; though he knows it's not a good one. Thanks whatever Gods smile on Heros (Frank *never* really intended to become a hero, let alone a Hero.) for whoever invented food and water duplicators ... A canteen would have run dry several times over in this heat. Ghods! At *least* another hour of crawling to go .... OOC: When the heck does *night* come around here, anyway?!?!?! Frank *swears* his watch must have stopped running ... but the seconds keep on ticking off, to refute that idea. All this, just to get next to the bloody fence, without being seen. Geesh. In the meantime, the sky above continues to sparkle in one goshawful fireworks display. Over near the "pit" several loud "BOOM!" noises, and one earthshaking, "THUMP!" that literally lifts him an inch or two off the ground, seems to indicate the battle is continuing ... though in whose favor, is unclear. Nobody seems to need *his* help so far ... Which is reassuring. In any case, his ComLink is set to "silent" mode ... A vibration would alert him if some really urgent message came in. Ah, for modern communications. ================================= Subject: Re: Storming The Storm On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 18:16:30 -0800 Fuzzy and/or Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00011562 >On Fri, 21 Nov 2003 22:41:36 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011545 > >>On Thu, 20 Nov 2003 22:49:43 -0800 >>Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00011535 >> >>"So, if I understand it, while one group concentrates on healing >>Suli San, the rest of us ensure that the rest of the combatants do >>not interfere, yes?" > > Defender nods. "That, in a nutshell, is it. The tactical goal is >to keep the individual forces guessing -- particularly Omen, as much >as that's possible, as well as any other invaders from outside the >Apokolips realm." > The team leader consults briefly with the Champions and the >visitors; except for Orion, they will apparently be going on separate >missions "The TechnoVar's have another Goal as Well, It seems We are Going to Be doing some Recruiting... They have decided To 'Rescue' Dr. Bedlam's Victims..." > /"Everyone ready?"/ Defender asks one last time. Since everyone's >already responded affirmatively, unless there's a last-second need, >he nods. The leader is on the farthest-protruding platform, crouched >like a diver ready to swim. The rest of the team is arrayed around >and behind him, Solitaire and Silver Phoenix on either side, >Dhyrclhanc behind and above; the quartet is an impressive sight. >/"Hydra...NOW!"/ "Fuzzy gone a Hunting." Fuzzy and the TechnoVar's do not arrive with the others. TBC ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Wed, 26 Nov 2003 21:08:00 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011564 >On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 08:12:36 -0800 (PST) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00011559 > >>Harlock Said As CAoL Message # 00011558 >> >>Erin looks at Veren, to find that he's looking back at her. They >>both grin rather nastily. Without any consultation, Erin shoots the >>dog on the left while Veren shoots the one on the right. They also >>start separating in an effort to make return fire more difficult. The super-archer looks at the incoming fire. She looks impressed (though not intimidated in the least) as she fires two countering arrows. One explodes on contact with Veren's arrow, destroying both. The second deflects Erin's, but too late; it strikes one of her pets, which does not destroy it but _does_ make it rather spastic, electric *zots* sparking along its huge metal frame. The archer no longer looks impressed, just annoyed. "Mary. Takeaway," she snaps. The pale woman dressed all in red crooks her finger, motioning to Veren with it, and his bow tries to leap out of his hands! "What about the woman, Artemis?" 'Mary' asks. "Her, I handle personally," Artemis replies, leaping down from the aero-disc, firing another arrow as she does -- this one at Erin. The woman in red smiles at Veren, sliding off the disc and floating down. "Hello. I am Bloody Mary. Would you like to know how I got my name?" she asks, her red cape flowing independently from the wind -- almost purposefully, it would seem. > Rob smiles. "You aren't the only one who brought friends." The red >around his hands deflects a few power spikes before he steps aside >and launches it at Bernadeth. None of the Furies have seen this >effect before, or they would notice the difference - instead of a >coherent bolt of force, it's more like being attacked by strawberry >gelatin. Extremely strong gelatin. [And that's my magic for a few >hours. I hope the Crimson Bands of Cyttorak hold her.] Bernadeth side-steps easily, casually, with the cunning and skill that earned her leadership of the Female Furies. She is, therefore, very surprised when the Bands expand and hit her anyway. "Source!" she spits, struggling to cut the Bands with her Fahren-Knife, to no avail. Lashina's smile broadens. "Oh, _thank_ you, little one. Maybe I'll kill you quickly _after_ all." "Oh, let me have him, _please_ Lashina..." the scantily-clad blonde begs. Under other circumstances, that might be good for Rob's ego. Of course, she's the one who disintegrated the light-post. "Bonds or no bonds, Gilotina, _I_ command the Furies! Kill them!" Bernadeth snarls, her eternal calm finally shaken. "Speed Queen, you're with Lashina! Destroy the spellcaster! Gilotina, Harriet, kill the swordsman! Stompa, free me!" [Damn,] Lashina thinks, her chance to (violently) claim leadership of the Furies lost as Stompa begins to strain at the Bands. Still, there are worse ways for one such as she to spend a day. She leaps down, the orange-clad woman (Speed Queen, apparently) racing off the aero-disc after her. She's wearing a pair of _roller_skates,_ of all things, but SQ lands easily and gracefully. "Harry him," Lashina orders, and the rollergrrrl races in, using standard (if brutal) superspeed tactics to hammer at Rob. Her strength is only marginally beyond human, but combined with her great speed and agility, she's going to be very dangerous indeed. > Kell just moves in, picking a spot that leaves clear shots for >everybody while letting him get in close. Gilotina and Harriet smile sadistically as they take flanking positions on Kell. He can engage one, but that will leave him open to the other. Gilotina fires a beam clearly meant to cut him, not kill him. Harriet, on the other hand, throws a volley of power spikes intended to turn Kell into a pin cushion... -- Evil GM-San Apokolips hath no fury...like _these!_ ================================= Subject: AAE9: Mother Love On Wed, 26 Nov 2003 22:24:45 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011565 >On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 15:03:12 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011560 > >"Okay, I have the locale." Ziactrice says to Eric. Although it isn't >actually necessary to hold hands to do the translocational effect she >calls shadowshifting, she does so. Eric can't kelp a small smile. >The two of them emerge in whatever locale Kanto has chosen for his >duel. A starburst symbol, identical to the one on Kanto's chest, has been painted in the center of what was once apparently a grass tennis court. Aside from a few spots where the paint was not fully removed, however, the symbol is the only thing within the fence. Eric frowns at the symbol. "Sure thinks a lot of himself, doesn't he?" the Hunter mutters. "And what is it with these costume types and the targets on their chests? Batman has an excuse -- he's got an APEX-proof plate under his -- but the rest of them..." >But no one seems to be here, yet. > >"Hopefully, he won't keep us waiting too long... and Omen isn't >anymore of aware of me than Darkseid. I wouldn't put any money down >on either, though." Eric's expression is flat, though his stance is the usual relaxed readiness. "If this Omen character is Nemo's counterpart, it's a safe bet to assume he knows pretty much anything worth knowing for this battle." >Taking out the Mother Box, she holds it in one hand, letting Eric >keep alert to external hazards. > >"I presume you're a rather intelligent device; please give me >whatever information, in whatever form, you can, assuming a sharply >limited timespan. Particular subjects of interest: the Source, Suli's >recent activities, her activities before the ALE, other known holders >of the ALE present in the current invasion force, anything you've >overheard or managed to simulate regarding Darkseid's tactics, how >the Source operates in this Shadow, and so forth. Use my Lens, I'll >open as many channels as I can." To the outside world, there is no indication that the Mother Box is doing anything aside from "ping"-ing gently and harmoniously. For Zia, however, the effect is startling. Without causing any distraction or discomfort, there is a new stream of awareness flowing into the lady Knight's mind. It is not quite pure impression, but the communication style is very primal all the same. ^I/we am/are grateful/thankful to you for rescuing this unit from the injured/ill/unbalanced Suli San.^ It/she waits for Zia to finish speaking to Eric before continuing. >"Eric, can you take a mind-feed without it distracting you too much, >or should I save it to share with you later?" "I'm good," he replies, this time not punning but just replying seriously. "I don't wear it much, but my limited practice with the Lens you gave me has helped me to increase my maximum number of simultaneous thought-tracks." (OOC: I had just forgotten about the Lens Zia gave him, but what the heck, it makes a cool bit to work into his character. 8^) At this, the Mother Box continues, providing the information to Zia as quickly as she can assimilate it (which, I presume, is pretty darn quickly 8^). ^The Source is a Power of creation, literally; it represents infinite possibility, and the generally benevolent intention behind the creative process as a whole. It is aware, but so expansive that it often has difficulty interacting with individuals. Thus, we were born/created -- the Mother Box/es of New Genesis.^ There is a brief wave of kindness/compassion/love/desire to be useful. ^As you may be aware, the Source is responsible for a variety of similar powers, which some would call 'lesser' but which we prefer to think of simply as different. The most notable of these are the Power Cosmic, and -- most relevant to the situation of your team/allies/family -- the Gate Keys from which your leader (and his greatest foe) derive their abilities. ^Suli San has been working/striving/preparing since your last encounter. In her heart, she wants very badly to be healed, but her madness opposes it, in part due to the mad/ill mind's mistaken belief that Darkseid prefers this more aggressive nature/variation/personality to her true/original one. Thus, the mad Suli has strengthened her defenses and prepared unpleasant/dangerous surprises for those who target her. She has also developed considerable fear of Roland/Blaze/Defender, and has devised a spell that will injure him severely should he approach her again. ^Before her death and rebirth/recreation, Suli San was a scientist and mathematician who believed very strongly in the potential that learning and understanding of the Source held to improve the lives of all denizens of Apokolips. She also believed that Apokolips and New Genesis could co-exist peacefully (though she was by no means a pacifist), and worked carefully to foster such a peace -- particularly through the unlikely love she found with Prince Uxas, whom you now know as Darkseid. Uxas' mother eventually saw through Suli's careful planning, however, and had Desaad assassinate her. ^Darkseid has entrusted the Equation's secrets to no one else -- only he and Suli understand the arcane formula and the uses of its many variables. The Anti-Life Equation also has an expression, however, in the sense of both mathematics and self-awareness. This 'Anti-Life Entity' is the true Darkness Device, a being innately inimical to the Source, being a thing of Oblivion/Annihilation/the Abyss of your kind's familiarity. As a thing of the Equation, the Entity is capable of wielding it for a variety of horrific effects. It has one significant weakness, however -- it only 'exists' on the side of the Equation that brings destruction. It cannot reverse destruction, nor control sets of variables that do -- such as the one that restored Suli San to existence. ^Darkseid's tactics are depressingly simple. Overwhelm the target with military might and skill -- Steppenwolf is very important to his forces as a strategist with few equals in any reality we are aware of -- then crush all hope of resistance with the standard tactics of oppression, refined to a science. Beings of power are the primary stumbling block to such efforts, which is why he suffers most of his Elite to exist. Their purpose is to destroy heroes, and little more. ^The area of conquest operates by laws that function as if it were native Apokolips terrain. The Source makes New Gods and Heroes of some, and others either choose a destiny or have it forced upon them, depending on their world and nature. New Gods and Heroes develop enhanced abilities according to their proclivities, talents, and natures. It is drawn to those of great potential and ability to understand/accept such abilities, though The Source's inability and/or unwillingness to judge worthiness results in an unfortunate number of those willing to use such abilities for selfish/harmful purposes. ^Earth-9 is very close to the realities directly connected to the Source -- a 'primal Shadow,' if you will -- and thus the Source has slightly different functions here. It manifests most directly in the Eternals and Wildstrikers, those transformed by the 'Gate Keys,' and less directly in the other supernatural/enhanced beings. It promotes the Prime, but it is not Primal Existence itself, any more than the Pattern is all Order or the Logrus is all Chaos. It is, and to a much lesser extent Mother Box(es) are, manifestations of the nature/intent/design of that aspect of Reality. ^As an aside, we can provide a moderate array of benefits to those we are bonded to -- creation and control of matter/energy, healing/repair, and new/enhanced sensory input. We can also create Boom Tubes for rapid, if not subtle, transportation. We can interface with your armor if you wish to take advantage of these abilities. Alternately, we are willing to bond with your ally/mate if you/he so desire.^ >Ziactrice is managing to sound fairly cool, but her swords are near >to her hands. Eric can tell she is ready to drop the Mother Box and >defend herself in much less than a heartbeat. As can Kanto. "You needn't fear," he says, leaping _over_ one of the fences and landing gracefully. Kanto then bows with a flourish. "While I am forced to admit that many of my colleagues are less than honorable, I am Kanto, and my word is my bond." His smile is assured, yet oddly friendly, and he salutes Zia with his blade -- a magnificent weapon, clearly crafted by a master. (Pause for Zia's response, if any) Eric frowns. "You have a second?" Kanto laughs. "To what end? Heroes are most reliable in these matters." His smile slips, and a fist rests on one hip, as he glances to one side. "Moreso than most of my colleagues, I am afraid, and those I would trust to remain honorable are too busy with...other matters." (Elsewhere, Darkseid and Dhyrclhanc are engaged in epic combat, as are Roland and Amazo. Steppenwolf, meanwhile, drums his fingers on a command chair's armrest as he matches wits with the brilliant commanders of Dhyrclhanc's forces and the Lensmen. Not fun, but better than another go-round with that _woman,_ in his opinion. ;^) "So." He flows with predatory catlike grace into a ready position. "I am at your disposal, fair Knight." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Thu, 27 Nov 2003 02:24:21 -0800 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00011566 >On Wed, 26 Nov 2003 21:08:00 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011564 > >>>Harlock Said As CAoL Message # 00011558 >>> >>>Erin looks at Veren, to find that he's looking back at her. They >>>both grin rather nastily. Without any consultation, Erin shoots the >>>dog on the left while Veren shoots the one on the right. They also >>>start separating in an effort to make return fire more difficult. > > The super-archer looks at the incoming fire. She looks impressed >(though not intimidated in the least) as she fires two countering >arrows. One explodes on contact with Veren's arrow, destroying both. >The second deflects Erin's, but too late; it strikes one of her pets, >which does not destroy it but _does_ make it rather spastic, electric >*zots* sparking along its huge metal frame. The archer no longer >looks impressed, just annoyed. > "Mary. Takeaway," she snaps. The pale woman dressed all in red >crooks her finger, motioning to Veren with it, and his bow tries to >leap out of his hands! Veren *growls* and hangs onto the twitching bow long enough to fire a volley of four arrows at the undamaged "pet." Unfortunately, the one shot is all he gets before the bow slips free. > "What about the woman, Artemis?" 'Mary' asks. > "Her, I handle personally," Artemis replies, leaping down from the >aero-disc, firing another arrow as she does -- this one at Erin. The arrow strikes her ballgown with a distict *clang* while Erin unloads on the damaged "pet" with appalling speed for an archer...one shot per second, it looks like. > The woman in red smiles at Veren, sliding off the disc and >floating down. "Hello. I am Bloody Mary. Would you like to know how I >got my name?" she asks, her red cape flowing independently from the >wind -- almost purposefully, it would seem. "Not particularly," Veren rumbles as he pulls another bow out of one of the quivers on his back and fires a volley of four arrows at the un-lady in red. Without turning his attention from her, he runs a quick scan of the area, looking for trees to duck into. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Mother Love On Thu, 27 Nov 2003 04:46:47 -0800 (PST) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011567 >On Wed, 26 Nov 2003 22:24:45 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011565 >>Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011560 >> >>"Okay, I have the locale." Ziactrice says to Eric. Although it isn't >>actually necessary to hold hands to do the translocational effect >>she calls shadowshifting, she does so. > > Eric can't help a small smile. Zia grins back at him, quite unashamed. She takes what chances she gets to show affection, in a life as gosh-awful _busy_ as hers. > Eric frowns at the symbol. "Sure thinks a lot of himself, doesn't >he?" the Hunter mutters. "And what is it with these costume types and >the targets on their chests? Batman has an excuse -- he's got an >APEX-proof plate under his -- but the rest of them..." "I didn't know there was a Batman here! Wonder why I haven't seen - well, of course. No one sees him, except when he wants, how silly of me. I've not cared for spandex or symbols, when I have done costumed Heroing, myself. Myself, I favor a nice, silk scarf. If you run out of ammo, you can strangle the Bad Guy. Only one ever tried that in reverse, and he found out it was carefully breakaway in the middle. Heh." > Eric's expression is flat, though his stance is the usual relaxed >readiness. "If this Omen character is Nemo's counterpart, it's a safe >bet to assume he knows pretty much anything worth knowing for this >battle." "No joke. I'm just hoping he doesn't have a special kind of hate on for me. I still haven't even heard from Nemo, but I've decided not to call him. Even if it wouldn't distract him more than two smidges, I'm afraid he might need those two smidges right now. It's disquieting that I haven't heard anything from him since his Doppleganger showed, though." Zia is clearly worried. > "I'm good," he replies, this time not punning but just replying >seriously. "I don't wear it much, but my limited practice with the >Lens you gave me has helped me to increase my maximum number of >simultaneous thought-tracks." "Right." Zia nods, as she throws Eric a channl through her Lens @There. This will be faster.@ > At this, the Mother Box continues, providing the information to >Zia as quickly as she can assimilate it (which, I presume, is pretty >darn quickly 8^). >Thus, the mad Suli has strengthened her defenses and prepared >unpleasant/dangerous surprises for those who target her. She has also >developed considerable fear of Roland/Blaze/Defender, and has devised >a spell that will injure him severely should he approach her again. Zia keeps listening, but she also Lenses a thought to Roland, Morgan, and Sil. She shadowshifts to ensure its arrival when it will not distract them - but also in time to warn them adequately. (It's good to be an Amberite.) @Update on Suli {packet repeating the MB's warnings}. Her Source connection is obviously back in working order despite my meddling. Her resistance shall be tremendous, because she thinks her love at stake. Clear ether, comrades!@ > Uxas' mother eventually saw through Suli's careful planning, >however, and had Desaad assassinate her. "And Desaad's still _alive_?!?" Zia says, shocked. >[...] It has one significant weakness, however -- it only 'exists' on >the side of the Equation that brings destruction. It cannot reverse >destruction, nor control sets of variables that do -- such as the one >that restored Suli San to existence. "This isn't right." Zia's tone is troubled, more than Eric's heard from the upbeat Lady-Knight of Amber before this. "The Equation is unbalanced in entire? Suli used an unbalanced integral, but I thought that was due to her mental disfunction. There is no entity on the other side, to counter-balance? I've _never_ seen an unopposed force of such scope. A Yang force without a Ying opposite? How is that possible?" > ^Darkseid's tactics are depressingly simple. Overwhelm the target >with military might and skill -- Steppenwolf is very important to his >forces as a strategist with few equals in any reality we are aware of "That is one of the solution variables I'm working on..." Zia lips curl slightly. >It is drawn to those of great potential and ability to >understand/accept such abilities, though The Source's inability >and/or unwillingness to judge worthiness results in an unfortunate >number of those willing to use such abilities for selfish/harmful >purposes. Zia nods as her eyes narrowing in thought. Eric knows her I-have-an-idea expression by now. "Does this Source -have- a source? Like the Pattern in my family's home? Is there the possibility that if someone interfaced with it more directly, such choices could be made more sensible? Assuming it would _allow_ such..." Of course, the idea might not be one Eric will particularly approve of Ziactrice attempting. 8^) > ^Earth-9 is very close to the realities directly connected to the >Source -- a 'primal Shadow,' if you will -- and thus the Source has >slightly different functions here. It manifests most directly in the >Eternals and Wildstrikers, those transformed by the 'Gate Keys,' and >less directly in the other supernatural/enhanced beings. It promotes >the Prime, but it is not Primal Existence itself, any more than the >Pattern is all Order or the Logrus is all Chaos. It is, and to a much >lesser extent Mother Box(es) are, manifestations of the >nature/intent/design of that aspect of Reality. "No conflict of loyalties for me, then. Good." > ^As an aside, we can provide a moderate array of benefits to those >we are bonded to -- creation and control of matter/energy, >healing/repair, and new/enhanced sensory input. We can also create >Boom Tubes for rapid, if not subtle, transportation. We can interface >with your armor if you wish to take advantage of these abilities. >Alternately, we are willing to bond with your ally/mate if you/he so >desire.^ "Define bonded to, please. Can this be undone? I'm _not_ of this Sha - well, not much of this Shadow... if I did, can you take the Pattern? Eric? You lean to the aesthetic and natural approach; I think it would bug you. But if are you interested, I'll stand aside." She winks affectionately at him. >>Ziactrice is managing to sound fairly cool, but her swords are near >>to her hands. Eric can tell she is ready to drop the Mother Box and >>defend herself in much less than a heartbeat. > > As can Kanto. > "You needn't fear," he says, leaping _over_ one of the fences and >landing gracefully. Kanto then bows with a flourish. Ziactrice watches this entrance with the air of one who appreciates a nice, theatrical touch. She bows respectfully, although without any flourishes. A good performer always admits it when another is better, and she has never been guilty of hamming. > "While I am forced to admit that many of my colleagues are less >than honorable, I am Kanto, and my word is my bond." His smile is >assured, yet oddly friendly, and he salutes Zia with his blade -- a >magnificent weapon, clearly crafted by a master. "Some might judge by the company you keep. For myself, I believe you. Although I suspect there shall be interference neither of us invite nor planned." > Eric frowns. "You have a second?" > Kanto laughs. "To what end? Heroes are most reliable in these >matters." His smile slips, and a fist rests on one hip, as he glances >to one side. > "Moreso than most of my colleagues, I am afraid, and those I would >trust to remain honorable are too busy with...other matters." "Sir, you know the forms must be met." Zia sighs. "We can duel without a Master of the Field; I am of the Eastern traditions. However, I cannot in honor retain my Second if you produce none." She looks at Eric, and then she sighs. "My Second won't leave even if I ask him to - so I won't. There is no other honorable entity on your entire side of this conflict who will support you?!?" > (Elsewhere, Darkseid and Dhyrclhanc are engaged in epic combat, as >are Roland and Amazo. Steppenwolf, meanwhile, drums his fingers on a >command chair's armrest as he matches wits with the brilliant >commanders of Dhyrclhanc's forces and the Lensmen. Not fun, but >better than another go-round with that _woman,_ in his opinion. ;^) (Ah, but 'that _woman_' has every intention of tying up an equal number of baddies... and if Kanto really wants his duel, he is going to have to produce a Second. HEhehehe.) > "So." He flows with predatory catlike grace into a ready position. >"I am at your disposal, fair Knight." "We're not fighting to the death, so I shall not be 'disposing' of you." A laugh bubbles out of Zia's throat at his gallantry despite herself, though, the sound surprisingly sincere and light-hearted. He reminds her so much of Bleys. Of course, Bleys can also trash her in a swordfight. Ouch. She shakes her head at him for making her laugh like that, then Zia manages to continue more seriously. "I will not begin until you have a Second, but I will prepare in good faith that you shall redeem this poor beginning. Since you wear no armor, I shall not." So saying, the Lady-Knight of Amber reaches up and undogs her helm, removing it. Kanto gets the first good look any of the Opposition has gotten of her face. Ziactrice watches for his reaction with interest, wondering just how closely Suli-before-death resembled her. From the Mother Box's description, the Shadow-resemblance was very close in temperment and philosophy. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Mother Love On Thu, 27 Nov 2003 15:50:30 -0800 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00011568 >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011567 > "This isn't right." Zia's tone is troubled, more than Eric's heard >from the upbeat Lady-Knight of Amber before this. > "The Equation is unbalanced in entire? Suli used an unbalanced >integral, but I thought that was due to her mental disfunction. There >is no entity on the other side, to counter-balance? I've _never_ seen >an unopposed force of such scope. A Yang force without a Ying >opposite? How is that possible?" /*"It is not. You carry no protections to prevent Cerberus from taking the knowlege from your mind or memories, so I cannot tell you what opposes it. Just know that it IS opposed and that it is only the tiniest of slivers of a greater whole that is what is truely opposed."*/ Aurora offers. > Zia nods as her eyes narrowing in thought. Eric knows her >I-have-an-idea expression by now. > "Does this Source -have- a source? Like the Pattern in my family's >home? Is there the possibility that if someone interfaced with it >more directly, such choices could be made more sensible? Assuming it >would _allow_ such..." > Of course, the idea might not be one Eric will particularly >approve of Ziactrice attempting. 8^) /*"Yes, the Source does have a 'source'. However that which is the 'source' of the Source may not interfere any more than that which is the origin of the Anti-Life equation may, without the intervention of The Stardragon."*/ Aurora answers. /*"I am sorry that I must be vague, but as I said, this information MUST be kept from Cerberus."*/ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Mother Love On Thu, 27 Nov 2003 16:15:22 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011569 >On Thu, 27 Nov 2003 04:46:47 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011567 > >>On Wed, 26 Nov 2003 22:24:45 -0800 >>Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011565 >>>Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00011560 >> >> Eric frowns at the symbol. "Sure thinks a lot of himself, doesn't >>he?" the Hunter mutters. "And what is it with these costume types >>and the targets on their chests? Batman has an excuse -- he's got an >>APEX-proof plate under his -- but the rest of them..." > > "I didn't know there was a Batman here! Wonder why I haven't seen >- well, of course. No one sees him, except when he wants, how silly >of me. Eric looks embarrassed. "*cough* I...ah...had the opportunity to work with him one about a year and a half ago. He disapproved of my willingness to kill, unsurprisingly, but he was otherwise refreshingly efficient." Eric pauses. "Batman _might_ be around, with Green Lantern here, but if he is I'm not aware of it. Not that I would be." >I've not cared for spandex or symbols, when I have done costumed >Heroing, myself. Myself, I favor a nice, silk scarf. If you run out >of ammo, you can strangle the Bad Guy. Only one ever tried that in >reverse, and he found out it was carefully breakaway in the middle. >Heh." Eric grins. "A scarf, eh? I think I've picked up a hint of a Shadow of that before. How apropos. I may not like spandex, but I did enjoy the exploits of the pulps' heroes as a boy." >> Eric's expression is flat, though his stance is the usual relaxed >>readiness. "If this Omen character is Nemo's counterpart, it's a >>safe bet to assume he knows pretty much anything worth knowing for >>this battle." > >"No joke. I'm just hoping he doesn't have a special kind of hate on >for me. I still haven't even heard from Nemo, but I've decided not to >call him. Even if it wouldn't distract him more than two smidges, I'm >afraid he might need those two smidges right now. It's disquieting >that I haven't heard anything from him since his Doppleganger showed, >though." Zia is clearly worried. "Oh, don't worry," a voice suddenly replies -- RIGHT IN HER EAR -- "I have no _personal_ interest in you." (Note; Eric does _not_ hear this, though it appears to be entirely sound-based -- no telepathy. His reaction is based on hers.) "Nemo, however, is fond of you, which means I will simply _have_ to direct my attention to you...later." The feeling of such a slimy character would leave any normal person who hadn't already fainted feeling a desperate need for a shower. >>Thus, the mad Suli has strengthened her defenses and prepared >>unpleasant/dangerous surprises for those who target her. She has >>also developed considerable fear of Roland/Blaze/Defender, and has >>devised a spell that will injure him severely should he approach her >>again. > > Zia keeps listening, but she also Lenses a thought to Roland, >Morgan, and Sil. She shadowshifts to ensure its arrival when it will >not distract them - but also in time to warn them adequately. (It's >good to be an Amberite.) > @Update on Suli {packet repeating the MB's warnings}. Her Source >connection is obviously back in working order despite my meddling. >Her resistance shall be tremendous, because she thinks her love at >stake. Clear ether, comrades!@ Roland and Amazo's epic battle had paused to allow them to stare dramatically at one another, Roland's eyes crackling with lightning as Amazo's blaze with the afterimage of Superman's Heat Vision. Roland's eyes widen slightly. /QX and many thanks, 'Z.' Hot jets!/ And Amazo charges at him again... Meanwhile, Morgan and Sil are each performing separate 'drunkard's walks' towards Suli, apparently fighting random baddies and providing backup for the CAoL's infantry while just _happening_ to move in Suli San's general direction. /Thanks for the update,/ Morgan replies as she sends a parademon into a blissful sleep. Sil grins. /What she said. So, we've got a mind that wants to be crazy and a soul that wants to be sane, huh? I think we can use that...right, my shamanic sidekick?/ She gives a Galactic Patrolman a peck on the cheek as she floats away, several Dog Soldiers around them clutching their stomachs from the 'semi-solidification' stunt Sil had performed. Morgan smiles, and the parademon she's engaged with decides to seek another target. /Yes, that _does_ give me a few new ideas,/ she comments, and slips into "druidess" mode as she reaches out towards the Source. A feeling like communing with the Force begins to flow into her. The Source itself, however, has far more intent, and allows for much greater power in an individual than most Force wielders. Cosmic power, life energy, reality flux, and a spirit-like 'intent' are all contained within the Source, and even trying to skim it is rather like skinny-dipping in liquid lightning. On the other hand, the Source is incredibly benevolent. Its 'mind' (if something so far-ranging can be called a mind) is simply so vast that it seems to have some trouble communicating directly with any one individual. There is a sensation of...understanding of Morgan's intent, approval, and a willingness to aid her. The sense of this, and the attendant energy, is so diffuse, however, that utilizing it would be difficult under normal circumstances. The purpose of a Mother Box becomes greatly apparent. On the other hand, this means that Morgan's ability to use her spiritual powers to heal the equivalent damage in Suli will be aided by the Source itself, as Suli is channelling some (tiny trickle) of its power directly... >> Uxas' mother eventually saw through Suli's careful planning, >>however, and had Desaad assassinate her. > > "And Desaad's still _alive_?!?" Zia says, shocked. ^Uxas/Darkseid often uses the Omega Effect to disintegrate Desaad, but always brings him back. They have a very odd/dysfunctional friendship/relationship. Desaad also assassinated Uxas' mother/Queen Heggra at the prince's demand, partially 'redeeming' his previous act in Darkseid's perspective. 'Only following orders' was a partially acceptable excuse to the High Lord.^ > >>[...] It has one significant weakness, however -- it only 'exists' >>on the side of the Equation that brings destruction. It cannot >>reverse destruction, nor control sets of variables that do -- such >>as the one that restored Suli San to existence. > > "This isn't right." Zia's tone is troubled, more than Eric's heard >from the upbeat Lady-Knight of Amber before this. > "The Equation is unbalanced in entire? Suli used an unbalanced >integral, but I thought that was due to her mental disfunction. There >is no entity on the other side, to counter-balance? I've _never_ seen >an unopposed force of such scope. A Yang force without a Ying >opposite? How is that possible?" ^Please forgive us; out projection/explanation was incomplete/erroneous. Though we Mother Box(es) are more focused than the Source itself, we can sometimes be overly conceptual/theoretical. We will endeavor to be more precise.^ There is a sense of embarrassment and disappointment in itself, but not annoyance or anger; the Mother Box seems, if not incapable of the latter two emotions, rather nearly so. ^Only the Anti-Life _Entity_ is unbalanced. The Equation is entirely neutral as a power; it is a technomagickal formula that has between six and thirteen variables (dependent on one of the variables themselves), with principles both mathematical and numerological. Careful use of these variables can destroy or undo destruction, hence the concept of using Anti-Life to have 'power over life and death,' as Darkseid believes.^ (OOC: Here, Evil GM-San is Making Stuff Up, based on a) my own knowledge of the two subjects invoked, b) what I know about the ALE, c) what I know about Darkness Devices, and d) the continuity error between two different appearances of the Equation. If this explanation by Mother Box doesn't clarify sufficiently for the player, please let me know and I'll go into detail in the Tech Room.) ^The Equation exists as a natural side-effect of the interplay between the Source and the Abyss. However, the Anti-Life _Entity_ is another matter. It is a being created by the partial solution of the Equation that fills in certain variables and leaves others incomplete, hence 'expression.' Even we are uncertain as to the necessary formula required to invoke the Entity, as it requires a concept of maximized 'wrongness' that we cannot conceptualize numbers having. To the best of our knowledge, a number does not have a rightness or wrongness innately. Perhaps it is a matter of context. ^Regardless, the Entity is the 'Darkness Device,' not the Equation. The Entity is self-aware and malevolent, even toward Darkseid himself. The High Lord seems to have some control over the being, fortunately. This state of affairs is unfortunate in that the force maintaining this invasion is actively hostile. It is also fortunate, however, in that an Equation cannot be opposed directly, but an Entity can.^ There is a pause as the Mother Box considers Zia's question. ^Hm. Perhaps...perhaps the term 'Anti-Life Equation' refers to the subset of _solutions_ to the formula that are actively opposed to life. This would explain Darkseid inability to restore Suli San to her original state. We lack direct knowledge of the formula -- it is secret even to we Mother Boxes, and Suli never allowed us/me to examine it fully -- but it is possible that her estimation regarding the minimum and maximum number of variables allowed in it is erroneous.^ The Mother Box seems excited, possibly even exuberant, at this concept. ^In this case, the 'Anti-Life Equation' could simply be a subset of the more general formula set regarding the Source itself, one incorporating its opposite. If this theory is correct, then logic dictates that there would of necessity be 'Life Equations,' correct?^ There is another pause. ^The wisdom of the Source is marvelous at times even to us. That we/I should come to be possessed/in contact with one of the most ideal beings imaginable for the purpose of solving this puzzle/conundrum/problem stretches the very concept of coincidence.^ >> ^Darkseid's tactics are depressingly simple. Overwhelm the target >>with military might and skill -- Steppenwolf is very important to >>his forces as a strategist with few equals in any reality we are >>aware of -- > > "That is one of the solution variables I'm working on..." Zia lips >curl slightly. ^Logical,^ The Mother Box replies approvingly/admiringly. > >>It is drawn to those of great potential and ability to >>understand/accept such abilities, though The Source's inability >>and/or unwillingness to judge worthiness results in an unfortunate >>number of those willing to use such abilities for selfish/harmful >>purposes. > > Zia nods as her eyes narrowing in thought. Eric knows her >I-have-an-idea expression by now. Eric rolls his eyes, but smiles as he does so. > "Does this Source -have- a source? Like the Pattern in my family's >home? Is there the possibility that if someone interfaced with it >more directly, such choices could be made more sensible? Assuming it >would _allow_ such..." The Mother Box pauses for a long time (subjectively) at this question. ^There is the Wall of Prophecy, on New Genesis,^ she begins slowly. ^That is where it can communicate most directly, through the Uni-Friend, the great hand that writes the warnings/sensations of the Source in its fiery light. However, this is not so much a...'source' of the Source,^ she continues, gentle amusement at the pun flowing across the connection briefly, ^as its most direct manifestation. The Source permeates the universe -- the Shadow, if you will -- in its entirety, though it tends to be most active on that Shadow's Earth, New Genesis, and Apokolips, in order of greatest manifestation down. The Source...IS, in a way that defies locality to an extent.^ > Of course, the idea might not be one Eric will particularly >approve of Ziactrice attempting. 8^) Eric, who has little experience with Amber or the Pattern (only what he's researched on the fiction, and fully aware that fiction is merely a reflection of the thing, and hardly the thing itself), says nothing. Given Zia's comments regarding "guidance" along paths, however, not to mention what he's heard about some actual Pattern wielders, he does radiate a bit of dubiousness. Mother Box, meanwhile, continues. ^As for sensibility, I believe that, insofar as the Source is even capable of feeling that it might have a right to judge who among those capable of using the potential it helps to evoke, in the long run even those who would use their powers for ill/malice will eventually understand the heart of creation: love.^ There is a sense of a smile. ^For all of Darkseid's purported evil, we examine what he did first with power over life and death and find hope. Not causing the destruction of his enemies, nor terror in his rivals. He used it out of love.^ >> ^As an aside, we can provide a moderate array of benefits to >>those we are bonded to -- creation and control of matter/energy, >>healing/repair, and new/enhanced sensory input. We can also create >>Boom Tubes for rapid, if not subtle, transportation. We can >>interface with your armor if you wish to take advantage of these >>abilities. Alternately, we are willing to bond with your ally/mate >>if you/he so desire.^ > > "Define bonded to, please. Can this be undone? I'm _not_ of this >Sha - well, not much of this Shadow... if I did, can you take the >Pattern? Eric? You lean to the aesthetic and natural approach; I >think it would bug you. But if are you interested, I'll stand aside." >She winks affectionately at him. The Mother Box is disappointed in itself again. ^Excuse me; perhaps 'interaction' would be more appropriate. We can connect to any form of technology known to us at present. We can also disconnect at the desire of the wielder. Alternately, we can mentally communicate with anyone who holds us/me, though without exerting some of our power, there is the risk of our being dropped/removed/stolen.^ Another sense of smile, accompanied with warmth/gratitude. ^On occasion, this is more advantage than liability. If the partner is willing, we can use our abilities to greatly reduce the risk of being lost, though if we are unwilling, this enhanced security cannot be forced from us.^ A touch of satisfaction, at that; Mother Box wants to help Suli, but was obviously not happy at its servitude, and is quite happy for Zia's timely rescue. ^We are equally willing to serve/aid/ally with either yourself or your partner, and are fairly certain that we risk neither you nor ourselves.^ It's being modest; 'fairly certain' is pretty much 'no chance we are aware of.' (Even Evil GM-San isn't inclined to play 'gotcha' games with a Mother Box. 8^) Eric considers the question carefully. "I get a sense of...benevolence, from this 'Mother Box.' It may be technological, but it..._feels_ natural, all the same. I'd feel better if you held onto it, since it obviously wants to help you, but if you think it will hinder you in the duel I'll hold onto it. Her," he corrects himself, and then looks curious as to why he did that. (Not Mother Box exerting any sort of mental influence; it/she just wouldn't _do_ that. Just his instincts kicking in, apparently. 8^) >> "While I am forced to admit that many of my colleagues are less >>than honorable, I am Kanto, and my word is my bond." His smile is >>assured, yet oddly friendly, and he salutes Zia with his blade -- a >>magnificent weapon, clearly crafted by a master. > > "Some might judge by the company you keep. Kanto has the good grace to look faintly embarrassed at that, and gestures to indicate a 'touch.' >For myself, I believe you. Although I suspect there shall be >interference neither of us invite nor planned." Kanto scowls at that. "I have taken what precautions as I can. If matters force my hand, I will defend honor as necessary." Does he mean that he'll fight _alongside_ her against attackers? Maybe... >> Eric frowns. "You have a second?" >> Kanto laughs. "To what end? Heroes are most reliable in these >>matters." His smile slips, and a fist rests on one hip, as he >>glances to one side. >> "Moreso than most of my colleagues, I am afraid, and those I >>would trust to remain honorable are too busy with...other matters." > > "Sir, you know the forms must be met." Zia sighs. "We can duel >without a Master of the Field; I am of the Eastern traditions. >However, I cannot in honor retain my Second if you produce none." She >looks at Eric, and then she sighs. Yep, Eric looks absolutely determined. To put it mildly. (Morgan adds: "Irresistible force, meet immovable object." :-) > "My Second won't leave even if I ask him to - so I won't. There is >no other honorable entity on your entire side of this conflict who >will support you?!?" Kanto _frowns._ "Such as I would trust to remain honorable are otherwise engaged -- except for Suli," he adds, "and do you _really_ want to complicate matters regarding her?" Eric's eyebrows practically _leap_ to his hairline. /I smell a rat. Just what kind of game are these people playing here?/ >>Steppenwolf, meanwhile, drums his fingers on a command chair's >>armrest as he matches wits with the brilliant commanders of >>Dhyrclhanc's forces and the Lensmen. Not fun, but better than >>another go-round with that _woman,_ in his opinion. ;^) > >(Ah, but 'that _woman_' has every intention of tying up an equal >number of baddies... and if Kanto really wants his duel, he is going >to have to produce a Second. HEhehehe.) OOC: Oh, _nicely_ done. *Evil GM-San bows in admiration* >> "So." He flows with predatory catlike grace into a ready >>position. "I am at your disposal, fair Knight." > > "We're not fighting to the death, so I shall not be 'disposing' of >you." A laugh bubbles out of Zia's throat at his gallantry despite >herself, though, the sound surprisingly sincere and light-hearted. He >reminds her so much of Bleys. Of course, Bleys can also trash her in >a swordfight. Ouch. She shakes her head at him for making her laugh >like that, then Zia manages to continue more seriously. "I am glad to know that," he replies with a grin and a nod. "I'm rather fond of breathing, and I have no desire to destroy an artist such as yourself." A Shadow of Bleys with jet-black hair? Who can say? Then again, would even a _Shadow_ of Bleys be content serving another? ;^) (OOC: Evil GM-San say: Thanks for the idea! ) > "I will not begin until you have a Second, but I will prepare in >good faith that you shall redeem this poor beginning. Since you wear >no armor, I shall not." Kanto chuckles and shakes his head. "Hardly nece--" he begins. >So saying, the Lady-Knight of Amber reaches up and undogs her helm, >removing it. Kanto gets the first good look any of the Opposition has >gotten of her face. And stops in mid-word, looking at her with curiosity. Also a little admiration for the attractive woman, to be sure, but something...niggles at him. "You..." Kanto tries, then stops. "Are..." he begins again, but that doesn't work either, so he gives that one up too. Eric chuckles. "Yeah, she can do that." "No," Kanto replies. "Not that I'm arguing the point, mind you," he adds as Eric clouds over, "just that...she reminds me..." > Ziactrice watches for his reaction with interest, wondering just >how closely Suli-before-death resembled her. From the Mother Box's >description, the Shadow-resemblance was very close in temperment and >philosophy. Suli was elfin, with long, straight, black hair, a long, thin face, and decidedly pointed ears. Still, there's enough resemblance that she's got Kanto thinking. Of course, the _current_ Suli is about a foot taller than Zia and has hair like Mad Harriet's -- spiky and wild, much like the current Suli herself. It's no wonder that Kanto doesn't know whether he's coming or going. {Steppenwolf,} Kanto says finally as he taps his collar, {I need a Second.} There is a pause. The sounds of battle -- explosions, systems complaining as they're pushed to their limits -- echo dimply through the comm channel. {You're _joking,_} Steppenwolf says finally, acidly. {Not really, no,} Kanto replies lightly, almost jauntily. {I AM FIGHTING A WAR HERE, YOU DAMNED POPINJAY!} Steppenwolf roars, causing Kanto to wince from the volume. The master swordsman/assassin glances at Zia with a look that says 'you see what I have to deal with?' with perfect sincerity. {Well then, can you send someone who can be trusted to honor the 'code duello?'} Kanto asks, grinning. {It's _her,_ isn't it?} Steppenwolf snarls. {I'd've known she'd manage to distract me somehow, even out here.} Kanto chuckles, holding his abdomen with one hand. {Surely, there must be _someone_ in your command with more honor than ambition --} {None that I'd part with,} Steppenwolf snaps back, though his tone is less harsh. He's starting to relent, apparently. Kanto considers this. {Well, I wouldn't want to put you out _too_ badly. What about Vundabar?} His grin turns rather wicked at that. {VUNADBAR?!} Steppenwolf sounds more amazed than angry at that. {I thought you wanted someone you could trust!} {Vundabar follows orders to the letter, if they're from those few he recognizes as superiors,} Kanto explains patiently. {You certainly qualify. Order him to be my Second, obey the code duello, and not look for loopholes.} The General pauses at this. {Who's _her_ Second?} he asks with a low growl. {The black-clad fellow,} Kanto replies. Steppenwolf makes an indeterminate sound; all that it really says is 'aggrieved.' {Wouldn't want _him_ wandering off to look for trouble, would we?} Steppenwolf sighs. {I hate you,} he mutters in annoyance. Kanto laughs. {Oh come _on._ No one hates me.} And he actually gets a laugh out of _Steppenwolf;_ a harsh laugh, to be sure, but a laugh all the same. {He'll be there in a few minutes. Stay out of trouble _yourself,_ popinjay,} he replies almost fondly, and the link cuts off. "What fun would that be?" Kanto asks Zia with a wink. "So, how shall we pass the time while we wait for my Second?" > "Perhaps one more wouldn't HURT." The grin just gets wickeder and >wickeder, so to speak. Be careful what you wish for, eh? ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: Storming The Storm On Thu, 27 Nov 2003 16:37:22 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011570 >On Thu, 27 Nov 2003 02:24:21 -0800 >Harlock Said As CAoL Message # 00011566 > >>On Wed, 26 Nov 2003 21:08:00 -0800 >>Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011564 >> >> "Mary. Takeaway," [Artemis] snaps. The pale woman dressed all in >>red crooks her finger, motioning to Veren with it, and his bow tries >>to leap out of his hands! > >Veren *growls* and hangs onto the twitching bow long enough to fire a >volley of four arrows at the undamaged "pet." Unfortunately, the one >shot is all he gets before the bow slips free. Mary smiles and uses her TK to toss the bow aside casually. >> "What about the woman, Artemis?" 'Mary' asks. >> "Her, I handle personally," Artemis replies, leaping down from >>the aero-disc, firing another arrow as she does -- this one at Erin. > >The arrow strikes her ballgown with a distict *clang* ...exploding into a sickly green cloud of gas. It isn't knockout gas, but if Erin can't escape or resist it archery is going to become a real problem, given the disorientation and spasms she'll endure. Artemis looks...curious. "Not the defense I had expected," she says with a dark smile, nocking an ordinary-looking arrow and taking aim, "but an acceptable result all the same." She seems to be...waiting for something. (OOC: Unless Erin is still firing rapidly, in which case, is 'parrying and riposting,' arrow-wise, with mostly normal arrows first.) >while Erin unloads on the damaged "pet" with appalling speed for an >archer...one shot per second, it looks like. The thing 'howls' metallically, maintaining just enough self-control to retreat in good order. Well, _decent_ order, anyway. >> The woman in red smiles at Veren, sliding off the disc and >>floating down. "Hello. I am Bloody Mary. Would you like to know how >>I got my name?" she asks, her red cape flowing independently from >>the wind -- almost purposefully, it would seem. > >"Not particularly," Veren rumbles as he pulls another bow out of one >of the quivers on his back and fires a volley of four arrows at the >un-lady in red. Without turning his attention from her, he runs a >quick scan of the area, looking for trees to duck into. "AIEE!" Mary cries, and the reason for her cape's twitching becomes apparent as six blasters fly out of it and return fire. One arrow pierces her leg, while the other three fall to her weapons and her power. "You...you accursed _male!_ I am going to fashion gloves from your _hide_!" she cries, limping backward while keeping one eye on the arrow to see if it does anything...unusual. The area is largely devoid of any natural life at all; this reality must be an especially barren one. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE9: The Great Escape ;^) On Thu, 27 Nov 2003 17:14:52 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00011571 >On Tue, 25 Nov 2003 17:11:00 -0600, In alt.callahans >Frank McCoy Said As CAoL Message # 00011561 > >>On Mon, 24 Nov 2003 23:51:15 -0800 >>Roland X Said As CAoL Post # 00009213 >> >> Certainly seems like it. Something that looks like a blimp >>appears in the distance, floating towards Frank's position...no, >>it's merely circling the compound. >> And given the too-steady way it moves, it's no blimp. >> Several meters behind the roughly circular energy fence are six >>towers, evenly spread around the compound. > >Frank looks closer: No, not quite circular: Generally Hexagonal. Perhaps, but a _rounded_ hexagonal. Not as easy to hit a 'corner.' >Now it begins to look like THAT plan isn't worth shit. Getting FOUR >people to help and armed, before getting caught, just didn't look all >that likely. Well: "Plan B." Not get caught. Frank does seem to have one thing going for him; while there appear to be a few zealous overachievers, the rest of the forces here seem to be motivated far more by 'don't get caught screwing up' than any real desire to do their jobs. Mostly guarded by the lowly 'Dog Soldiers' (not really dog-like physically, except for a pronounced tendency for large canine teeth), these brutish warriors go about their business with half an eye on the clock (proverbially speaking). >Not much chance of being detected where he is; but the chances of >crossing that last six feet in broad daylight, undetected, is about >the chance of a snail crossing the freeway. Possible, but highly >unlikely. It's either wait-for-nightfall, or try Plan ... Um ... >We're already up to Plan-C, and it's not looking good. Hmmm ... >There's *got* to be some way to at least get *close* to the fence >without sticking out like a log in the middle of the highway. You know, now would be a good time for the hero to catch a break. Reality, unfortunately, doesn't seem to be cooperating right now. >Thanks whatever Gods smile on Heros (Frank *never* really intended to >become a hero, let alone a Hero.) for whoever invented food and water >duplicators ... A canteen would have run dry several times over in >this heat. > >Frank *swears* his watch must have stopped running ... but the >seconds keep on ticking off, to refute that idea. All this, just to >get next to the bloody fence, without being seen. Geesh. On the other hand, based on that large chunk of metal coming down... "INCOMING!" comes a roar from one of the towers. Parademons open fire on the thing, but whatever it used to be before being caught between Steppenwolf's forces and the Army of Light's...well...army, it's just a big hunk of shrapnel now. Dog Soldiers scramble for cover. A huge chunk of the power fence just...goes away. One close enough to Frank to be convenient, but far enough away to not put him in danger of becoming two-dimensional. ;^) "Source!" a Parademon captain snarls. "Secure those prisoners! Clear this area! I want patrols out here _yesterday,_ do you hear me?" The others go about their duties sullenly, not especially worried if a human or two escapes, and certainly not watching the gaping hole from the other direction. After all, there isn't anyone to be seen for quite some distance, and even if there were, who's going to sneak _into_ a prison camp? ;^) =================================