Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 9 Chapter 23 - Intermission Subject: Re: AAE9: Love and Darkness On Wed, 09 Feb 2005 10:26:23 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012372 >On Sun, 6 Feb 2005 09:33:10 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012357 > > "Only I could keep a hero identity secret from _myself_." >Ziactrice-in-Black says softly, not wishing to interrupt Morgan's >work on Eric. "Guess I'll have to stop teasing the supers crowd about >their respective costume choices." She checks her sword, feels >several other places to assure herself that various bits and pieces >of equippage are still in place, even as she sits up. "At least Ultra-Violet has _style,_" Eric replies, sounding entirely serious. Only through the Lens can Zia pick up his feeling of dry humor. "Why, _thank_ you, Eric," Morgan comments just as dryly, with a hint of sarcasm. She _is_ a life mage -- did she pick up on the humor as well? ;-) At that, Eric, _does_ grin in his trademark wry style. "I suppose it is a bit late to comment on the...family resemblance...between Solitaire's outfit and UV's." >She gives Kanto a faint smile, even as she shakes her head ruefully. >"Thank you." Kanto salutes with his blade, smiling with odd satisfaction. "My pleasure." > "Normally, I'd go off about how she's my archenemy - and fault." >Zia frowns, and looks down at her hands. "Given how badly I've >botched stopping her before - I couldn't have done worse - it is my >responsibility." "You?" Eric blurts uncharacteristically. He chuckles. "Hrm. For a moment, I was going to argue for the guilt -- I might as well have handed myself to Infra-Red, for all the caution I showed. But I'm willing to chalk it up to the realm if you are." >She sighs. "I'll have to ask the Family for help." The very thought >seems to pain her, because she knows the price that will likely be >extracted for such a favor in -her- family, but her words are >resigned to it. Eric can feel, through the Lens, just how deeply that sentence cuts her, if not how or why. "Hold on, Zia, perhaps you're being a little premature." Without looking (or apparently even thinking) he reaches into his coat and pulls out three shuriken, then starts flipping them between the fingers of one hand, like rolling coins across them. "I have native allies that, if I read you right, will 'cost' far less to bring in, and have far more of a stake in bringing the Queen of Spades to heel." He smiles darkly again. "Her taking the wrong side in this war is likely to alienate a lot of her contacts...and you _know_ how persuasive I can be when I put my mind to it." The smile widens, showing teeth and becoming rather more disturbing. "In fact, I believe she's given me the tools to be even more...convincing." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Love and Darkness On Wed, 09 Feb 2005 13:14:16 -0800 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00012373 >On Tue, 8 Feb 2005 13:45:26 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012368 > > "What about the addiction from using it? Aurora, can you provide >me any assurance as to his long-term well-being? Lensmen are immune >to mental addictions, but physically, biochemically, our bodies still >can suffer. I've seen Lensmen die of thionite poisoning." The Petite >Amberite grimaces, but it fails to hide her concern from Eric. /*"He will not suffer from a physical addiction, for two reasons. First when this war is concluded, he will be, if he so desires, restored. No possible physical addiction will remain with him at the end of that process. Second, even thionite requires a minimum sustained period of use before the body can adapt to it and become addicted. The instant addiction of thionite is a mental addiction, not a physical one. This war will be concluded long before Eric could possibly become physically addicted.. At the end of the war, I will take the device back and destroy it. The Gnome is happy to help, but does not wish to be a permanent blood bank. You need have no fear of physical addiction in this case. I believe that between Morgan, you, and I, we can deal with any possible mental addiction. Not that I expect one to develop in this short period."*/ Aurora answers. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Wed, 09 Feb 2005 20:41:11 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012374 >On Mon, 7 Feb 2005 13:01:19 -0800 (PST) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00012361 > >>Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012359 >> >>We fought techno-demons during the quest for Fuzzy and the >>time-twisting adventure that followed. We have the archives for >>those situations on the computer as well." >> "Any questions, and who's going where?" Roland asks. > > As Rob picks through the computer archives on Thratchen, he sucks >in his breath sharply. "Roland," he says tensely, "about what >Thratchen did to Eric. Is that a common techno-demon ability, or a >Thratchen special? And how does the summoned 'cyber-slaving' gear >interface - neural link, or something else? I'm going to India, >regardless, but I need to know." "It's rare, but not unique to Thratchen. According to Alena -- the human priestess met during that engagement -- it is called 'mechanization,' and turns the victim into a fully cybernetic slave of the caster. It requires tremendous unholy power and a highly advanced spiritual and technological reality -- or someone capable of defying local reality. It doesn't last long, though Eric _did_ break it very early." Roland pauses. "I wonder if Thratchen's still mad about me helping Alena's Nation fight off that Tharkoldu attack..." -- (/) Roland Actually, Thratchen's mad about a _lot_ of things Roland's done. That's just one of them... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Love and Darkness On Wed, 09 Feb 2005 20:57:35 -0800 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012375 >On Tue, 8 Feb 2005 13:45:26 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012368 > > "What about the addiction from using it? Aurora, can you provide >me any assurance as to his long-term well-being? Lensmen are immune >to mental addictions, but physically, biochemically, our bodies still >can suffer. I've seen Lensmen die of thionite poisoning." The Petite >Amberite grimaces, but it fails to hide her concern from Eric. Eric shakes his head. "There's no help for it, love. I _need_ blood now, at least as badly as a wholly-alive person needs water. I have to be careful not to let the hunger turn me on my...friends..." even now, the word comes hard to the Hunter, though the circumstances have clearly reopened old wounds, "...but if I'm going to be of any use at all, I _must_ feed." >She smiles faintly. "Just remember, despite your Lensman's Load, >there are people who don't like to see you hurting yourself, if it's >avoidable, eh?" Eric grins, keeping his lips closed. "I'll be careful, Zia." He puts his right hand over his heart and raises his left. "Promise." He's being a touch silly, deliberately, but clearly means what he says down to his soul. "Well," Morgan smiles, "I think my work here is done. Now, I think I'm going to stop by Arcadia and make sure the kids know Mommy and Daddy are OK. It's good knowing they're safe, but they're too bright not to realize something's wrong and to be worried. See you at the briefing," she says as she leaves the room. -- Eric & Morgan The Hunter worked solo, now he works with Solitaire... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Thu, 10 Feb 2005 11:47:51 -0800 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00012376 >On Wed, 09 Feb 2005 20:41:11 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012374 > >Roland pauses. "I wonder if Thratchen's still mad about me helping >Alena's Nation fight off that Tharkoldu attack..." /*"Of course it is. Being what it is, how could it NOT be?"*/ Oracle replies. (OOC: as I recall Thratchen and co. are sexless entities.) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Tue, 15 Feb 2005 09:23:40 -0800 Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00012381 Quiet Moon returns to the room, looking somewhat troubled. "Darkstock has been locked away." he mentions, if anyone cares to ask. >On Sun, 06 Feb 2005 19:02:15 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012359 > >Emperor Palpatine and his Galactic Empire have landed rather >forcefully on India and overrun almost the entire country. For those >of you familiar with the movies, this Empire seems to be from just >before Episode V OOC: I am. He's not. His first encounter with a lightsaber should be interesting... > He and Morgan share a glance. "One new element," he adds sourly, >"is Thratchen. He and his techno-demons are a powerful threat with >foul magick and deadly science. That gets his attention. It's evil and twisted, yes, but the combination of magic and science can lead to....interesting results. >I don't even want to think what they'll be like with the Dark Side; >unfortunately, that's a luxury we can't afford. We fought >techno-demons during the quest for Fuzzy and the time-twisting >adventure that followed. We have the archives for those situations on >the computer as well." (OOC: See the website for more. It was the >Cosmic Engineer quest in VI, chapters 3-5, and the TARDIS group >chapters in Present Simple of VII.) > "Any questions, and who's going where?" Roland asks. "I'll go to India." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Love and Darkness On Tue, 15 Feb 2005 13:24:15 -0500 "David McMillan" Said As CAoL Message # 00012383 >Samatha Cooper wrote on 2/6/2005, 12:37 PM: > > "Only I could keep a hero identity secret from _myself_." >Ziactrice-in-Black says softly, not wishing OOC: Okay, whoe *else* had a sudden vision of a Will Smith video with ZIB-Zia in it? Raise your hands, now, don't be shy... > "Normally, I'd go off about how she's my archenemy - and fault." >Zia frowns, and looks down at her hands. "Given how badly I've >botched stopping her before - I couldn't have done worse - it is my >responsibility." She sighs. "I'll have to ask the Family for help." Thunder, who's been trailing along discreetly, twitches slightly as this comment sticks a crowbar into the cracks Harlock and Aunt Zee opened earlier in his angst shell, and begins *prying*... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: A reweaving of loose threads On Tue, 15 Feb 2005 17:47:41 -0800 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00012385 >On Sat, 05 Feb 2005 21:43:59 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012354 > > "We also have mentalists who might be able to help you with >your...situation. Unfortunately, I have several other crises to >attend to, many of them of enormous consequence." Jeffries arrives in >that moment. "This is Edward Jeffries, our chief steward. He will >attend to your needs as time and his considerable abilities permit." > Jeffries bows to Drilea as Roland follows his lady wife's example. >"Would you like me to show you to quarters, madam, or perhaps to a >place where you can learn more about this time and place?" A translucent image of Harlock pops up next to Roland. "Sorry to startle you like that, but I'm still in transit. This may seem impertinent, but did you ever apologize to Suli for threatening to blow her head off?" The Bard winks out again before Roland can respond. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: A Reweaving of Loose Threads On Tue, 15 Feb 2005 18:16:08 -0800 (PST) Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012386 >On Sat, 05 Feb 2005 21:43:59 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012354 > >"It may also be because Driscoll -- our friend -- was at one time the >God of Thieves of Quaren. That," Morgan nods towards the mask, "was >his. It's...complicated," she finishes with a shrug. > > Roland is about to continue, when... Drilea looks at the mask ponderingly and then raises a hand to her temple and winces a bit as if suffering from a sudden migraine. She shakes her head out to clear it and looks down at herself again. Her eyes get wide and she grasps her chest, "I've got breasts! I don't think I wanna have breasts! Chaois! Where the heck are you so I can kick your..." Her rants gets interupted as well though as events move on around her. > Roland clears his throat. "We're in the middle of a...severe >crisis just at the moment. You're welcome to remain here, if you >wish. There are few safer places on our world. Returning you to your >homeworld would be fairly simple, but I suspect that Chaos would >simply bring you back here." > The Champion pauses. *Jeffries? If you have a moment?* Drilea nods her head, 'You're probably right there. Well I see thing shaven't been dull since... I died didn't I? I kinda remember... but things are cloudy at the same time... I wish Roscoe were here. No wait, I have breasts now... i DON'T wish Roscoe were here. He could be more of a letch that I was..." > [Of course, Mr. Phoenix,] Jeffries replies, excusing himself from >Pharaoh Mobius, Karma, and company to return to the storage chamber. > "We also have mentalists who might be able to help you with >your...situation. Unfortunately, I have several other crises to >attend to, many of them of enormous consequence." Jeffries arrives in >that moment. "This is Edward Jeffries, our chief steward. He will >attend to your needs as time and his considerable abilities permit." > Jeffries bows to Drilea as Roland follows his lady wife's example. >"Would you like me to show you to quarters, madam, or perhaps to a >place where you can learn more about this time and place?" Drilea rubs her chin and looks around, 'Well... I should see if I can help out somehow... I hate sitting on the sidelines..." He looks down at himself again, "But I still don't even quite know me yet. I guess I should try to learn more first. Mrmm.. something seems to be niggling at my brain..." Drilea scratches her head, and then her fingertips start feeling around at something hidden in her hair on her forehead. He raises his eyebrows and then closes his eyes. They snap open again a few moments later, 'OK, getting used to two peopel in one body takes some practice but I think we're working it out some.. She says she...we.. I... whatever. Anyways there's some telepathic abilities that can interface directly with intelligent machines. Got an AI around here somewhere Beeker that can fill me in? And I need some weapons too I think..." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Tue, 15 Feb 2005 18:20:44 -0800 (PST) Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012387 >On Sun, 06 Feb 2005 19:02:15 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012359 > > "Any questions, and who's going where?" Roland asks. Drilea rubs her chin from her seat as she's been listening, "Well, tempting as crossing swords would be, I'm not familiar enough with this body yet to consider myself the master I was in my own... But I have fought both against and with the empire at various times and might be able to offer some of that knowledge there in India... Also, if we can figure out how the empire's getting here, I know some freinds back in their universe who might be able to give a helping hand if I can get in touch with them... Well as long as there's a profit in it of course, but knowing this crew salvage rights should cover that much..." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: A Reweaving of Loose Threads On Wed, 16 Feb 2005 12:17:57 -0800 (PST) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012388 >On Sat, 05 Feb 2005 21:43:59 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012354 >>On Thu, 27 Jan 2005 19:26:12 -0800 >>Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00012352 >> >>Quiet Moon glances at the (presumably still) bound and gagged figure >>of Darkstock. "What of this one? He is too dangerous to be left to >>his own devices." >> >>"If it is alright, I would ask this one some questions if there is >>time. He may have information on a quarry that I have been pursuing >>for some time..." > > @As far as I'm concerned,@ the Hunter Lenses in his usual even >tone, @he's all yours.@ "How delightfully curious." RedZia comments, as she walks through. "Remind me to ask you about how you know him and this other quarry sometime later, Quiet Moon, unless it is a private matter." > "The situations in both the land of my birth and northern Africa >seem to have been resolved successfully, and Master Eric..." Jeffries >carefully doesn't glance over at the Hunter, but manages to take in >his state all the same, "...has been extracted from his durance >vile." [If a bit too tardily on my part.] RedZia thinks to herself, since the mere tone of the thought could chill blood if said aloud. > A minute or so later... > "{/Attention fellow Champions, Callahanians, and other friends and >allies,/}" Roland says/sends through the lens link and on the >island's loudspeakers. "{/I recommend taking this opportunity to >recuperate as your natures may require -- food, rest, and so on >and ask everyone to gather in the Ready Room in eight hours. Gateways >to faster or slower timelines are available on request. That is >all./}" > Roland leans back wearily into his chair in the Champions Island >control room. [When, by the Source,] he thinks wearily, [when did >this get so _hard?_] Startling a fellow who can sling lightning bolts (in the master control room, no less) not being ideal, Ultraviolet clears her throat noisily after appearing from thin air in the room. She takes a couple of steps up behind him, to rub his shoulders with her thick-leather gloved hands - and a quiet, restrained strength far beyond normal humanity that is even less surprising. "You might want to inform the United States government of our thus far qualified success in beating back the invasion." She suggests quietly, her hands still working. "And... my Amber chromatic split hasn't succeeded in tracking down the owner of this shadow - I mean, the person who controls how this world changes - in my sense of the word control. I had thought such a personage might be an essential ally, but.." "I - or rather, the AmberZia has been trying, while we've been busy, to use the dagger I linked to this Earth while having that delightful little duel with Kanto to seek out someone to throw off the invader's Shadows. There was a vague idea that the mythos of Atlas, the Titan who supported the Earth in ancient theology, is somehow pertinent." Violet shrugs her shoulders. "I cannot divine any more than that, and have now lost the trail. I am not Eric's equal in such feats, plainly." "It may be merely a skilled shadow-denizen, or some odd, natural characteristic of this plane, blocking me. Or the warpage of the invading Shadows is throwing me off trying to affect the normal Shade - er, World." She admits, despite the seemingly bone-deep reluctance any Amberite feels sharing such - especially when it concerns their own particular lack of an ability or skill. "I need to go." She says, to change the subject. "All the form-shiftings have worn me out; I'll be well-rested when I collapse these Dream-Chromatics. Perhaps I can convince Eric to take a slow-window to build up his reserves. Don't think I really got your shoulders loose, but maybe I made Morgan's job of it later a bit easier." She gives him the soft slap of battle-comrades. She turns to walk out, her steps lacking their usual energy though retaining a semblance of grace. -- Ultraviolet "The Just" "I burn the candle on one end: the ultraviolet." Quipped to the villain during the usual capture, 'tell me how your powers work' scene. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: A Reweaving of Loose Threads On Thu, 17 Feb 2005 08:08:48 -0800 Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00012389 >On Wed, 16 Feb 2005 12:17:57 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012388 >> >> "How delightfully curious." RedZia comments, as she walks >>through. "Remind me to ask you about how you know him and this other >>quarry sometime later, Quiet Moon, unless it is a private matter." "It is no secret; I left Magnamund in pursuit of his death-dealing teacher some time ago. I will share what I learn from him; Jhordax tends to leave lasting impressions wherever he goes." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: A Reweaving of Loose Threads On Sat, 19 Feb 2005 20:56:18 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012393 >On Tue, 08 Feb 2005 16:07:30 -0800 >Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00012370 > >"Really? I have encountered Cener before." As he speaks, Quiet Moon's >psychic powers 'draw' an image for Darkstock's benefit. "They are no >longer human. Scarred and twisted by the power they have called >on...tortured and devoured by Death, scarred and twisted by diseases >that are visited on them by those same dark powers, minds twisted and >blasted by visions of death, becoming little more than mere >wights..." To emphasize his point, the Kai grabs one of Darkstock's >wrists. "I doubt that Vurnos would approve of your little vanity." he >remarks coldly, eyeing the healed over scars on the scientist's >wrists. "Cener take pride in their scars." Darkstock snickered, folding his arms and staring at the Kai with open contempt. "Primitives. All of you, primitives. What care _I_ for the weaknesses and frailties of your superstitions? I am _Darkstock!_ They say the sun never sets on the British Empire, but that means it is always half in shadow, and I am its shadow _prince!_" He laughed. "As for your pathetic diseases, it was simplicity itself to inoculate myself against their ravages." Here, he sneered outright. "Even less do I fear your mind-twisting follies. For centuries have the royals themselves called us mad, MAD I tell you! Yet it is _they_ who are mad -- mad to deny our heritage, our birthright, our DESTINY! The British Empire will forever rule the day -- and I will forever rule its NIGHT!" (OOC: Remember, it's 1938 for this guy. Hitler's ambitions are starting to become obvious, but the Second World War and the ensuing colonial liberations have not yet ended Britain's self-perception as the world's greatest superpower of its time.) >"Fool! Where I come from, you would be put to the sword, just for >allying yourself with that order! And there would be none to come to >your defense. Who did you swear the oath to? Was it Jhordax?" >Quickly, his mind reaches out again, gauging the scientist's reaction >to the name. "As I thought. And those Helghasts in the realm we just >left, his parting gifts?" > >"I only have one more question, then. Where is he now?" "Bah," Darkstock says dismissively, waving his hand without concern. "Give me your word to return me to my home cosm of Terra when you have your answer, and I will tell you. None of your kind are of any consequence to a Night Royal." -- Lord Darkstock "Mad? They called me mad at the University, yes. I'll show _them._ I'll show you ALL! NYAH-HA-HA-HA!" (What he lacks in originality he makes up for in enthusiasm. ;^) =========================== Subject: AAE9: A Talk Long Overdue. On Sun, 20 Feb 2005 05:55:37 -0000 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00012394 The Star Fissure long behind him, Michael fell through the starry expanse toward a distant desert of black sand, the same land he'd initially found the Myst Linking Book in. He noticed a light beneath him, drifting lazily up along with an ever growing occulting of the stars. It was a bonfire, by his estimation. He was going to land with it well to the south. He hadn't written anything in this Age that would support people, and he had already warded this place from intruders, so he was quite curious to see who'd found him here. A family member, obviously, but who? The fall was more of an Alice down the rabbit hole drift toward the ground. So the landing wasn't more shock than a drop by parachute. Michael Seven took the landing easily, steel-toed construction boots striking the black sands firmly, causing a white glow from the crystals mixed with the black sand beneath his feet. He had to fall to absorb the rest of the momentum, but a short roll brought him to his feet again. After picking up the linking books for Myst and D'ni that had fallen on the same patch of ground he did, he headed toward the bonfire he'd seen from the air. After about half an hour, he got close enough to make out a figure dancing around it, along with a heavy drumbeat. As he approached, he realized the music was Indian. No, Bollywood. [Hello, Tink,] he thought. ^{Daddy} {Tink} {dance}^ David sent him, delighted, ^{Tink} {sad} {Daddy} {make Tink happy}^ Michael Seven slowed, watching his granddaughter from the darkness. Her dancing was frenetic. She moved to the fast, upbeat music like she was possessed. [Or trying to shake something that was bothering her,] Mike thought. Tink stopped suddenly, snapping ramrod straight and staring right at him. Her head turned suddenly, staring at the boombox on the sand, which suddenly silenced. Then she turned toward David, who suddenly levitated out of her dashing grasp. David flew into Michael's arms with a giggle as Tink looked embarrassed. [Whoa,] Mike thought. "Tink, are you alright?" Tink started to cover, but suddenly sat down in a heap, looking more miserable than he'd seen her in a very long time. "No." Mike walked over and sat down next to her. Gently, he asked, "What's wrong?" "I--I'm not what you want me to be." "Which is?" "Human," she whispered bitterly. [Oh Maker, no, now I've gone and done it.] Michael Seven let out a puff of air. "I'm sorry for making you think that's what I wanted from you. I've been holding you back because I didn't want to you miss something I held to be wonderful, your childhood. I never wanted you to grow up thinking I wanted you to be a normal human. I didn't think you could, in fact." Tink blinked, and looked at him in hurt confusion, and he realized what he'd said. "Oh, no, not like that. Tink, I don't quite understand it myself, but you're not like your mothers. That's a good thing; it's what they wanted when they designed your program. But when you chose humanity, I admit, I was a bit surprised." "It's what you wanted for all of us," Tink said. Michael shook his head, "I wanted you to understand what it meant to be human. It's such a common basis for so many races throughout the multiverse. If you couldn't understand it, you'd have likely had a very hard time interacting with others. But to deny you to grow to your full potential, that, I never had in mind. Not for you, not for your mothers, not for David. You are who you are; don't deny yourself because someone else has other expectations of you. And don't think your grandmother or I have any expectations of you except to be yourself. "Tink, I'm so sorry for confusing you and for letting my own hang-ups and desires get in the way of expressing who you are." Tink started to cry and Michael wrapped his arms around her. "You've been holding back for a while now, haven't you? I'd been wondering about that, you used to revel in all the things you could do, but you've been so reserved lately. Don't go down that road. I did, and it's been an uphill battle to get to where I want to be again. It's nothing but a defensive mechanism, trying not to stand out, or risk looking silly." "It's not just that," Tink choked out, "I don't know what I am anymore." "What do you mean?" "Like what I can do." "Like what?" ^{}^ Tink sent suddenly, still sobbing, and Michael gasped, but held her and David more tightly. [Oh Maker!] "You did fine," Mike said, after absorbing the events on Earth-9, "Better than I could have, in fact. And you left just when you should have, even if you didn't want to. I couldn't be more proud of you. I'm just sorry I didn't have my lens with me." Tink sniffled, "I could have called you." Mike nodded, "I expect you could have, at that. But, it wouldn't be the first time I had been busy when the call came. And given the backup at their disposal, I wouldn't add much except moral support." Tink looked up at him, eyes red, but looking rather cross, "No! You can do anything you set your mind to! You deliberately limit yourself, because you don't like the implications!" "True," Michael said after a moment, but then he looked at her seriously, "But remember that qualifier, 'because I don't like the implications.' Because if you want to do things I don't, you do them, as long as you'll be safe doing it." "What if I wanted to be like I was before becoming human?" Michael squeezed her tightly, "Then you do that, as long as you're safe and sure it's what you want. I love you both too much to ever not accept what you are and whatever you freely choose for yourselves. You're both going to be different, your own people. And if I've had any trepidation about what you wanted for yourself in the past, its my problem, not yours. You just concentrate on being the best Tinkerbell Seven you can be." Tink hugged him for a long time. *{Bored}* David telepathically impressed upon them and they both laughed, followed by David's giggle after a moment. Michael stood up, taking David with him, and held a hand out to help up Tink. "Now," he said, "I'm going to call your grandmother. You douse this fire. Then we'll leave some messages for your mothers and Aunt Molly. We' ll call my folks and set up babysitting for David and Anna." "I can baby-sit, I don't need help," Tink said. "Oh," Michael said, "I thought you'd want to help out in Japan, fighting anime characters." Tink's smile couldn't have been bigger, Michael thought. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: A Reweaving of Loose Threads On Sat, 19 Feb 2005 22:43:36 -0800 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012395 >On Tue, 15 Feb 2005 18:16:08 -0800 (PST) >Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012386 >>On Sat, 05 Feb 2005 21:43:59 -0800 >>Morgan and Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012354 >>We believe you were brought here by the concept-entity 'Chaos.'" He >>glances sidelong at Morgan, then continues. "We think it did this >>because...ah, well, you appear to be sharing a body with a friend of >>ours, and unless I miss my guess Chaos stuck his consciousness in >>there with you because, well, he enjoys doing that sort of thing to >>him." >> >>"It may also be because Driscoll -- our friend -- was at one time >>the God of Thieves of Quaren. That," Morgan nods towards the mask, >>"was his. It's...complicated," she finishes with a shrug. >> >> Roland is about to continue, when... > > Drilea looks at the mask ponderingly and then raises a >hand to her temple and winces a bit as if suffering from a >sudden migraine. She shakes her head out to clear it and >looks down at herself again. Her eyes get wide and she >grasps her chest, "I've got breasts! I don't think I wanna >have breasts! Chaois! Where the heck are you so I can kick >your..." ^Have fun, dear,^ Morgan sends as she leaves to help Eric. ^I'll remember this,^ Roland fires back. ^Promise?^ Morgan replies in a cute-yet-sultry tone. ^No.^ Despite (or perhaps partly because of) the mental raspberry he hears in his mind, the Eternal has to fight off a grin. He sobers quickly, however; what Chaos has done to Driscoll and...Mantis?...is a deep violation of both. >> Roland clears his throat. "We're in the middle of a...severe >>crisis just at the moment. You're welcome to remain here, if you >>wish. There are few safer places on our world. Returning you to your >>homeworld would be fairly simple, but I suspect that Chaos would >>simply bring you back here." The Champion pauses. *Jeffries? If you >>have a moment?* > > Drilea nods her head, 'You're probably right there. Well I see >thing shaven't been dull since... I died didn't I? I kinda >remember... but things are cloudy at the same time... I wish Roscoe >were here. No wait, I have breasts now... i DON'T wish Roscoe were >here. He could be more of a letch that I was..." At that, Roland _does_ grin, chuckling faintly. Morgan's laughter at the situation echoes in his mind as well. "I think we've all died at least once at this point, old friend." >>"This is Edward Jeffries, our chief steward. He will attend to your >>needs as time and his considerable abilities permit." >> Jeffries bows to Drilea as Roland follows his lady wife's >>example. "Would you like me to show you to quarters, madam, or >>perhaps to a place where you can learn more about this time and >>place?" > > Drilea rubs her chin and looks around, 'Well... I should see if I >can help out somehow... I hate sitting on the sidelines..." He looks >down at himself again, "But I still don't even quite know me yet. I >guess I should try to learn more first. Mrmm.. something seems to be >niggling at my brain..." Jeffries nods. "Our systems are quite extensive, miss Drilea. Further, perhaps Seeker and Solitaire can assist you with your...situation...later." > Drilea scratches her head, and then her fingertips start feeling >around at something hidden in her hair on her forehead. He raises his >eyebrows and then closes his eyes. They snap open again a few moments >later, 'OK, getting used to two peopel in one body takes some >practice but I think we're working it out some.. She says she...we.. >I... whatever. Anyways there's some telepathic abilities that can >interface directly with intelligent machines. Got an AI around here >somewhere Beeker that can fill me in? And I need some weapons too I >think..." "The Champions Island computer system is not fully sentient," Jeffries explains. "However, its expert systems fit less self-determinant definitions of artificial intelligence. It possesses an extraordinary ability to offer suggestions on research." As he leads Drilea to one of the primary terminals, he continues. "It would take some time to provide access; however, UNTIL has a fully sentient AI in its service. As for weapons, our replicators should have sufficient capability to provide you with what personal provisions you require." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Sat, 19 Feb 2005 22:53:01 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012396 >On Tue, 15 Feb 2005 18:20:44 -0800 (PST) >Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012387 >>On Sun, 06 Feb 2005 19:02:15 -0800 >>Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012359 >> >> "Any questions, and who's going where?" Roland asks. > > Drilea rubs her chin from her seat as she's been listening, "Well, >tempting as crossing swords would be, I'm not familiar enough with >this body yet to consider myself the master I was in my own... But I >have fought both against and with the empire at various times and >might be able to offer some of that knowledge there in India... Also, >if we can figure out how the empire's getting here, I know some >freinds back in their universe who might be able to give a helping >hand if I can get in touch with them... Well as long as there's a >profit in it of course, but knowing this crew salvage rights should >cover that much..." Roland smiles wryly. "Why do I have the feeling I know _exactly_ which party-crashers you're talking about?" The smile vanishes. "I have an idea about their Maelstrom Bridge, but it's only a theory right now. To the best of my knowledge, they haven't sent Star Destroyers into our universe, but according to our intel they _do_ have some corvette-sized ships here. My guess, therefore, is they're using the construction site around Endor as a 'dual use' system, transporting forces through to our reality while...well, I'm sure you know what they're building there. Blasting their way in is out of the question, of course, but with the massive amounts of material and supplies being shipped in, one more cargo ship more or less shouldn't be too much of a problem as long as it doesn't get too close to the, ah, 'special project.'" =========================== Subject: AAE9: Karma Chameleon On Sun, 20 Feb 2005 07:16:55 -0000 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00012397 Karma had decided to take the allotted time for Heinlein's three things one should never miss a chance to do. She had the first soon after arriving at Champion's Island, courtesy Jeffries fine preparations for the incoming guests, then had a room arranged for the second, with a couple suits of clothing Jeffries suggested would be appropriate depending on her next destination for when she woke up, and she was just exiting the facilities for the third when a figure was unexpectedly in front of her. Karma yelped in surprise, then did a double take at the redhead in gray leathers. "David?" David smiled, "Hello, Karma," Karma frowned, "How do I know it's really you? I just saw you as a baby." @^{Our last encounter on the sandstone column}^@ Karma held her stomach, "Oof, I was quite a mess, but I remember that. And your lens contact from before that." David nodded, "Sorry, but it was something I was fairly sure you'd trust me on knowing." "So, why are you here?" David held up the faux mini-lens. "Tink called, she said she'd retrieved this from Mobius's lab." "Oh good grief, thank you," Karma said, "I'd forgotten all about it." David shrugged, tossing it on the clothes laid for the next run. "Actually, I wanted to talk to you about that. But, would you do something for me, first?" Karma gave him a wry grin, "Depends." He held out a hand, as his other hand turned on a small Walkman at his waist. "Could I have this dance?" he asked as a waltz started playing. Karma blinked, "Alright, it can't be any more surreal than the last couple days." David smiled, "I'll explain in a minute, I just want to be sure of something before I say anything." Karma stepped into his arms and they waltzed. The music changed abruptly and unexpectedly, but they went with it into a cha-cha. Several more changes; tango, foxtrot, samba, and a few styles she wasn't familiar with until she did them and found faint memories of those dances in her mind. Finally the music ended and they stepped away from each other. David bowed and Karma curtsied. "Did you find out what you wanted?" David nodded, "Not that I can explain it. You and Tink are the only people I know who can dance like that. Even my mother, who dances quite well, feels slow and unresponsive to cues. My father can't tell a difference, but Tink and I can." "Which means what?" David sat on the edge of the bed, "Well, in terms of the world of the Lensmen, it means you're a third-stage mentality, like the Arisians." "Oh yeah, right," Karma said, sarcastically, "I've been believing a lot today, but that, no, I don't believe it." "Well, no offense, but I don't think so, either. What I do think is that whatever lets you keep reincarnating is very, very old. "And since it lets you pass memories and knowledge from life to life," David said, holding up the faux-lens, "I want to put something in your head so you don't need this anymore." Karma sat as she took that in. Then she frowned. "You think I'm going to die." David sighed heavily, "Anstice, Rene, Karma. Twice, you've died because of me. I don't want there to be a third, but if there is, I at least want you to be able to come back here and rejoin the CAoL if you so choose. I still think it would be safest." Karma shook her head, "First, I died because I couldn't let go of you. It wasn't your fault. I was the one who got behind the wheel when I was upset, and then I go and try to find someone like you. That was dumb luck, how was I to know that the nearest thing to you was your total opposite? Then I came to warn you, because I didn't want you to be caught unaware. So don't take my noble death as your fault." David smiled at that, "Still, what I have in mind is going to be contained entirely in your mind, so it can't be stolen, and it can be passed on to your next incarnation if you should die." "If it'll make you happy, sure, I'll do it. But, unless you know something I don't. wait, forget I said that, that's just asking for you to tell me something I don't know and I don't want that foreshadowing on my life. Just gimme the thing so I can get some sleep." David sat up straighter and slapped his legs, "Right then, let's begin." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: A Reweaving of Loose Threads On Sat, 19 Feb 2005 23:59:57 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012398 >On Wed, 16 Feb 2005 12:17:57 -0800 (PST) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012388 >>On Sat, 05 Feb 2005 21:43:59 -0800 >>Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012354 >> >> A minute or so later... >> "{/Attention fellow Champions, Callahanians, and other friends >>and allies,/}" Roland says/sends through the lens link and on the >>island's loudspeakers. "{/I recommend taking this opportunity to >>recuperate as your natures may require -- food, rest, and so on and >>ask everyone to gather in the Ready Room in eight hours. Gateways to >>faster or slower timelines are available on request. That is all./}" >> Roland leans back wearily into his chair in the Champions Island >>control room. [When, by the Source,] he thinks wearily, [when did >>this get so _hard?_] > > Startling a fellow who can sling lightning bolts (in the master >control room, no less) not being ideal, Ultraviolet clears her throat >noisily after appearing from thin air in the room. She takes a couple >of steps up behind him, to rub his shoulders with her thick-leather >gloved hands - and a quiet, restrained strength far beyond normal >humanity that is even less surprising. "Oh. oh. ooooo." Somehow, the stone beneath her fingers melts back into flesh as she works. His arms slowly slide off the armrests to fall nearly limp at his sides. "If you're trying to one-up James, Zia, you're off to an excellent start. Of course, we don't have to worry about snipers here. Mmm." > "You might want to inform the United States government of our thus >far qualified success in beating back the invasion." She suggests >quietly, her hands still working. "Already in progress," the young Eternal replies, gesturing weakly at the computer. "UNTIL's AI is a lot nicer than Braniac, but every bit as much of a datavore." > "And... my Amber chromatic split hasn't succeeded in tracking down >the owner of this shadow - I mean, the person who controls how this >world changes - in my sense of the word control. I had thought such a >personage might be an essential ally, but.." Roland grimaces briefly. "Too many cosmic entities who call Earth-9 home." Then fingers smooth out another Gordian Knot of a muscle, and he smiles almost sleepily. > "I - or rather, the AmberZia has been trying, while we've been >busy, to use the dagger I linked to this Earth while having that >delightful little duel with Kanto to seek out someone to throw off >the invader's Shadows. There was a vague idea that the mythos of >Atlas, the Titan who supported the Earth in ancient theology, is >somehow pertinent." Violet shrugs her shoulders. "I cannot divine any >more than that, and have now lost the trail. I am not Eric's equal in >such feats, plainly." The smile flickers. "Atlas?" Memories, images, a shadow-play of times past, passes through his mind as quickly as it entered. "You're well ahead of me, at any rate. I didn't know we _had_ a Shadow 'owner.' I sure know _I_ wouldn't want the job. Ooo." >"It may be merely a skilled shadow-denizen, or some odd, natural >characteristic of this plane, blocking me. Or the warpage of the >invading Shadows is throwing me off trying to affect the normal Shade >- er, World." She admits, despite the seemingly bone-deep reluctance >any Amberite feels sharing such - especially when it concerns their >own particular lack of an ability or skill. "Anyone who could hide from the deep, ancient conspiracies on my homeworld for any length of time would give Oberon fits," he replies, leaning into the rub a touch, rather like a cat. "You're good at what you do." His eyes open again, and he looks at Zia's reflection in the monitor fondly. "You're lucky I'm so happily married. I've heard of proposals being made for less." > "I need to go." She says, to change the subject. "All the >form-shiftings have worn me out; I'll be well-rested when I collapse >these Dream-Chromatics. Perhaps I can convince Eric to take a >slow-window to build up his reserves. Don't think I really got your >shoulders loose, but maybe I made Morgan's job of it later a bit >easier." She gives him the soft slap of battle-comrades. She turns to >walk out, her steps lacking their usual energy though retaining a >semblance of grace. "Give him a good thump for me if he argues with you," he replies with a grin, then lies back for a few moments to enjoy the moment of relaxation. Then, with a sigh, he straightens, stares at the computer, and mutters, "The words and I will be locked in combat until one of us surrenders." ^If you turn around and undo that excellent back rub, I will have to thump _you,_^ Morgan sends from elsewhere, her tone light but her intent deadly serious. ^Miles to go, love,^ Roland replies grimly. ^I've got an excellent fast-time world in mind to get a few good nights' sleep in, but first, I have to perform rectal-cranial extractions on some nass-fool generals who think they can fight reality alterations with howitzers, then coordinate relief operations with UNTIL and the free nations, keep some idiots in Washington from restarting the war with Darkseid, and touch bases with Minuteman and Blue Sapphire to make sure Freedom Force and Vanguard are holding up.^ ^A Defender's work is never done,^ Morgan sends. ^No kidding,^ he sighs back. ^I'll refill my cup in a few hours, I promise. I just have to empty my plate first.^ The Champion smiles briefly at the rewarding laughter that replies, then turns his attention back to his link to the Allied Forces. [Wulfhere, you moron,] he growls mentally, [what power trip are you taking _this_ time?] =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Sun, 20 Feb 2005 01:22:50 -0800 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00012399 >On Sat, 19 Feb 2005 22:53:01 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012396 > > Roland smiles wryly. "Why do I have the feeling I know _exactly_ >which party-crashers you're talking about?" The smile vanishes. "I >have an idea about their Maelstrom Bridge, but it's only a theory >right now. To the best of my knowledge, they haven't sent Star >Destroyers into our universe, but according to our intel they _do_ >have some corvette-sized ships here. My guess, therefore, is they're >using the construction site around Endor as a 'dual use' system, >transporting forces through to our reality while...well, I'm sure you >know what they're building there. Blasting their way in is out of the >question, of course, but with the massive amounts of material and >supplies being shipped in, one more cargo ship more or less shouldn't >be too much of a problem as long as it doesn't get too close to the, >ah, 'special project.'" /*"Roland, should they send any Star Destroyers, or anything bigger, Dragon's Bane will counter them."*/ Aurora anounces. /*"It has orders to only use its main weapon, if it can do so without causing serious damage to this world or its atmosphere and magnetosphere."*/ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Mon, 21 Feb 2005 04:38:58 -0000 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00012400 >On Sun, 06 Feb 2005 19:02:15 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012359 > > Roland chats with Seeker as members of the CAoL and Champions >trickle in to the briefing room. Both men are keeping subject and >tone alike light, but the strain is evident on them both. ElderTink mingles, but makes a point, without making it obvious, to keep topics upbeat, especially for the Earth-9 locals, especially the Greywolf-Phoenixes, Lancers and Rob. She does quietly teep Roland to let him know her David has been helping Karma with a more secure form of telepathy that should keep her from getting into trouble like in the Nile Empire, serendipitous as it was, and that things have been going very well. Meanwhile, Moonstone, after returning from the Middle Earth adventure and working off some residual stress in the danger room, proceeds to eat several cows' worth of meat before finally retiring to a room to sleep, muttering she'd had it with fantasy realms. > "I didn't want to stay too long," Roland replies apologetically, >"even with the time differential." Karma and Moonstone emerge from their rooms. Karma is decked out in a navy silk blouse, black pantaloons and black leathen vest and black leather boots, a navy sash belting her waist. From a seperate black leather belt hang a beautiful pair of flintlock pistols and an achingly exquisite rapier. Her hands are gloved in black leather, and she wears a black mask and navy blue scarf around her head. Moonstone, on the other hand, is wearing a white uniform Padme or Leia would find familiar, with a blaster on her hip. "'Retired fifteen years and living like a king in Patagonia?'" Moonstone repeats as they come within earshot. Karma nods, "That's what I remember when I picked up the mask. I'm told the sword is appropriate, given that. The balance is off, though, like for a larger hand than mine." Moonstone snickers. "What?" Karma demands. "Oh nothing, I'm just going to have to show you a movie when we get home." "'Rancor,'" Karma says significantly. "Don't remind me, I wish I'd remembered that earlier. Ah well, I'll stick to human form unless I can safely cut loose." They take their seats. A trio of transporter beams shimmer an open space in the room. ElderTink checks a watch that hadn't been on her wrist before. "Well, well, look at the time. I'd better get going," she says suddenly, "A pleasure seeing you all again, but I'd better scat." The older Tink dissolves just after catching the eye of her younger, materializing counterpart. The younger Tink rolls her eyes. "There I go, there I go, there I gooo..." the fifteen year old sings as her older counterpart vanishs. Michael Seven shrugs, squeezing her shoulder. On his other arm is a not-so-familiar sight, his wife Flarn. "Are we in time for the briefing?" Flarn asks with a sly smile. "If this is a bad time, we can come by earlier," Mike adds. > "Any questions, and who's going where?" Roland asks. Karma grins, "Theah, definitely, I've got several lifetimes of sailing experience. Pretty much everything I'm wearing sparked a memory or two of some past life aboard ship." She taps the mask, "I've even been a captain." Moonstone nods, "Star Wars for me. Just watch out if I have to take a dragon form, that universe isn't known for big, intelligent beasts." Michael Seven gestures at a few other spots on the map, "While the CAoL is doing that, Flarn and I are off to Iraq for the Gaunt Man's fingerhold there. I've got the Twins heading for Israel and Molly and her girlfriend will be working in Mexico City. Don't want you all to finish off the Gaunt Man's main invasion only to have him pop up elsewhere." Flarn adds, "We think Tinkerbell is ready for the invasion in Japan, we simply need an appropriate time for her to arrive. I understand we've already got people there, so we suggest she either arrive immediately or some time within the last several hours, depending on if and when she's been seen." (OOC: IOW, are events in Japan well in the past or are they happening concurrently? (I'm not picky, either's good, unless Rob wanted to be done and back...?) I'll have her arrive whenever's convenient in the current thread, I've already got someone in mind for her to square off against, mwahahahaha.) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: A Reweaving of Loose Threads On Sun, 20 Feb 2005 23:03:25 -0800 Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00012401 >On Sat, 19 Feb 2005 20:56:18 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012393 > > Darkstock snickered, folding his arms and staring at the Kai with >open contempt. "Primitives. All of you, primitives. What care _I_ for >the weaknesses and frailties of your superstitions? I am _Darkstock!_ >They say the sun never sets on the British Empire, but that means it >is always half in shadow, and I am its shadow _prince!_" He laughed. >"As for your pathetic diseases, it was simplicity itself to inoculate >myself against their ravages." Here, he sneered outright. "Even less >do I fear your mind-twisting follies. For centuries have the royals >themselves called us mad, MAD I tell you! Yet it is _they_ who are >mad -- mad to deny our heritage, our birthright, our DESTINY! The >British Empire will forever rule the day -- and I will forever rule >its NIGHT!" > (OOC: Remember, it's 1938 for this guy. Hitler's ambitions are >starting to become obvious, but the Second World War and the ensuing >colonial liberations have not yet ended Britain's self-perception as >the world's greatest superpower of its time.) "I think the only thing amusing about you is that you really believe yourself. Yes. I think you are the...third person to claim to be a shadow prince. Maybe fourth, I lost count." "Oh, and let me know when the nightmares start. I am told that Cener initiates have quite...vivid visions." >>"Fool! Where I come from, you would be put to the sword, just for >>allying yourself with that order! And there would be none to come to >>your defense. Who did you swear the oath to? Was it Jhordax?" >>Quickly, his mind reaches out again, gauging the scientist's >>reaction to the name. "As I thought. And those Helghasts in the >>realm we just left, his parting gifts?" >> >>"I only have one more question, then. Where is he now?" > > "Bah," Darkstock says dismissively, waving his hand without >concern. "Give me your word to return me to my home cosm of Terra >when you have your answer, and I will tell you. None of your kind are >of any consequence to a Night Royal." "Very well. I shall not impede your return. A place, if you please?" To any of the senior CAoL nearby: /Do we have any allies in Darkstock's home area? I have some information that might be useful to them. If unimaginative rantings are of any interest./ To Darkstock: "I'm waiting." Perhaps he had time for a quick trip after Darkstock gave his answer.... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Mon, 21 Feb 2005 17:36:15 -0800 (PST) Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012402 >On Sat, 19 Feb 2005 22:53:01 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012396 > > Roland smiles wryly. "Why do I have the feeling I know _exactly_ >which party-crashers you're talking about?" The smile vanishes. "I >have an idea about their Maelstrom Bridge, but it's only a theory >right now. To the best of my knowledge, they haven't sent Star >Destroyers into our universe, but according to our intel they _do_ >have some corvette-sized ships here. My guess, therefore, is they're >using the construction site around Endor as a 'dual use' system, >transporting forces through to our reality while...well, I'm sure you >know what they're building there. Blasting their way in is out of the >question, of course, but with the massive amounts of material and >supplies being shipped in, one more cargo ship more or less shouldn't >be too much of a problem as long as it doesn't get too close to the, >ah, 'special project.'" Drilea nods her head and smiles, "Then arraingements shall be made. However, I'm not exactly sure how well my um... other half's magical abilities will work in that reality and I don't trust my own melee skills until I'm more used to this shorter reach, so I'll see if I can't arrainge for some weapons as well." She winks as she looks about, 'Any empire or rebel tech for the shopping list?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Wed, 23 Feb 2005 20:55:57 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012403 >On Mon, 21 Feb 2005 04:38:58 -0000 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00012400 > >> On Sun, 06 Feb 2005 19:02:15 -0800 >> Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012359 > > She does quietly teep Roland to let him know her David has been >helping Karma with a more secure form of telepathy that should keep >her from getting into trouble like in the Nile Empire, serendipitous >as it was, and that things have been going very well. /Much obliged,/ Roland replies. > Karma and Moonstone emerge from their rooms. > Karma is decked out in a navy silk blouse, black pantaloons and >black leathen vest and black leather boots, a navy sash belting her >waist. From a seperate black leather belt hang a beautiful pair of >flintlock pistols and an achingly exquisite rapier. Her hands are >gloved in black leather, and she wears a black mask and navy blue >scarf around her head. Eric looks the Dread Pirate Karma over approvingly. "Excellent equipment." At the inevitable snicker/wiseacre comment, he turns a _deadly_ gaze on the perpetrator (unless it's Zia, in which case he does something worse -- Wounded Hearts eyes ;^) and says, "I _meant_ the weaponry." > ElderTink checks a watch that hadn't been on her wrist before. > "Well, well, look at the time. I'd better get going," she says >suddenly, "A pleasure seeing you all again, but I'd better scat." > The older Tink dissolves just after catching the eye of her >younger, materializing counterpart. The younger Tink rolls her eyes. > "There I go, there I go, there I gooo..." the fifteen year old >sings as her older counterpart vanishs. Wrinkle's voice whispers "I'll _get_ you for this" in Roland's ear. "you could always side with the gaunt man," Roland whispers back. "...i hate you." > Michael Seven shrugs, squeezing her shoulder. On his other arm is >a not-so-familiar sight, his wife Flarn. > "Are we in time for the briefing?" Flarn asks with a sly smile. > "If this is a bad time, we can come by earlier," Mike adds. Roland and Morgan laugh. "_Damn,_ it's good to see you," Roland replies as Morgan issues hugs all around. "And I'm tempted to tell you it _is_ to just to watch Wrinkle's head explode." A small 'eep' escapes Rio. > (OOC: IOW, are events in Japan well in the past or are they >happening concurrently? (I'm not picky, either's good, unless Rob >wanted to be done and back...?) OOC: In the grand "what continuity?" tradition of the CAoL, I tend to have things being written concurrently happening concurrently. (Never mind that that seems to result in all of Earth-9 being in daylight at the moment. If Evil GM-San isn't sweating it, I recommend that none of you do either. ;^) >On Mon, 21 Feb 2005 17:36:15 -0800 (PST) >Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012402 > >>On Sat, 19 Feb 2005 22:53:01 -0800 >>Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012396 >> >>My guess, therefore, is they're using the construction site around >>Endor as a 'dual use' system, transporting forces through to our >>reality while...well, I'm sure you know what they're building there. >>Blasting their way in is out of the question, of course, but with >>the massive amounts of material and supplies being shipped in, one >>more cargo ship more or less shouldn't be too much of a problem as >>long as it doesn't get too close to the, ah, 'special project.'" > > Drilea nods her head and smiles, "Then arraingements shall be made. >However, I'm not exactly sure how well my um... other half's magical >abilities will work in that reality and I don't trust my own melee >skills until I'm more used to this shorter reach, so I'll see if I >can't arrainge for some weapons as well." She winks as she looks >about, 'Any empire or rebel tech for the shopping list?" "I direct your attention to the lovely collection of Sevens to your right," Roland quips, winking at Mike. "When you absolutely, positively need it there yesterday. Seriously, we don't have a lot of Lucas-tech programmed into the system, but I imagine that will be taken care of five minutes ago. They can't handle anything larger than personal gear, so if you want an X-Wing you're out of luck." He grins wickedly. "On the other hand, if you need Mandalorian armor, we've got you covered." The leader looks around. "Let's see. Who does that leave..." Eric looks away. "Theah. Reluctantly, but I really would rather not find out what the Dark Side thinks of my...current status." "It's a little more retro than I usually do," Rio says cheerfully, "but since more people seem interested in sci-fi than historical fantasy, I'll do Theah, too." Kanto chuckles deviously. "Ah, so many entendres, so little time..." At Eric's murderous glare, he changes conversational direction. "I have some familiarity with settings similar to yon leader's description of this 'Theah.' I do believe it will be quite the diversion." Eric's response is to make a sound like the mutant offspring of a sigh and a groan. "What did I ever do to you, Gaia?" "And maybe the three of us can link up with Captain Sparrow," Rio adds in a gently teasing tone. "Though I'm not sure I want to be the Miss Swann of that storyline..." "Sorry, sis," Eric quips, looking not at all sorry, "but it looks like you've got point in dealing with that bird." He fingers something in his coat. "Now that captain, on the other hand...I've got something for _him_ if he comes nosing around." "/If everyone's finished with the wisecracks,/" Roland inserts indulgently, "/everyone who's not ready can pick up gear in the com-sim room -- combat simulator -- and deal with other final prep as necessary./" After a brief conference on the Champions tepe-link, he continues. "/Seeker and Orchid will raise some Abyss in Theah, and Quantum, Obsidian and Jaguar will hold the fort here. They'll respond to any emergencies that arise and provide transport back when necessary. "/The Star Wars team will be taking the Slingshot, which readings indicate will fit in nicely as an older corvette kept in 'cherry' condition, while the Theah team will teleport into an area kept clear by our contact there./" He nods to the group. "/If there are no other questions, we'll meet back here in an hour./" (OOC: And awayyy we go! I hope. 8^) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Thu, 24 Feb 2005 10:42:36 -0800 (PST) Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012404 >On Wed, 23 Feb 2005 20:55:57 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012403 > > "I direct your attention to the lovely collection of Sevens to >your right," Roland quips, winking at Mike. "When you absolutely, >positively need it there yesterday. Seriously, we don't have a lot of >Lucas-tech programmed into the system, but I imagine that will be >taken care of five minutes ago. They can't handle anything larger >than personal gear, so if you want an X-Wing you're out of luck." He >grins wickedly. "On the other hand, if you need Mandalorian armor, >we've got you covered." The leader looks around. "Let's see. Who does >that leave..." Drilea shakes her head, "No I don't uaually like too heavy of armor, but something like the Rebel body armor shouldn't restrict my movements too much.. and a coupleof good heavy blasters to use." She sits down crosslegged on the floor and closes her eyes. She hums softly and slowly two Antennae sprout up from her forehead. They're long nad sender and if someone looks close you can almost see what looks like circutry etched into them. Her eyes open a few moments later and she smiles a rather mischevious smile, "Alright, arraignements are made. Now those weapons?" [snip the part that's in aae9s-01.txt] =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Thu, 24 Feb 2005 13:09:17 -0800 (PST) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00012405 [snip the part that's in aae9a-02.txt] Fifteen minutes later, Rob returns to Champions' Island, re-locates his dislocated shoulder, and settles in for a nap. In Tokyo, Bison is being loaded into a police van. A sticky-note on his chest reads, "Crimelord, Mrigankan. - One (1). Will defrost in four hours at room temperature. Handle with care. Keep in locked cell until ready to deport." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Fri, 25 Feb 2005 00:03:18 -0000 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00012406 >On Wed, 23 Feb 2005 20:55:57 -0800 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012403 >>On Mon, 21 Feb 2005 04:38:58 -0000 >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00012400 >>> On Sun, 06 Feb 2005 19:02:15 -0800 >>> Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012359 >> >> Karma is decked out in a navy silk blouse, black pantaloons and >>black leathen vest and black leather boots, a navy sash belting her >>waist. From a seperate black leather belt hang a beautiful pair of >>flintlock pistols and an achingly exquisite rapier. Her hands are >>gloved in black leather, and she wears a black mask and navy blue >>scarf around her head. > > Eric looks the Dread Pirate Karma over approvingly. "Excellent >equipment." "Many men have said so. A few women, too," Karma says devilishly, "But let's not talk about work." >At the inevitable snicker/wiseacre comment, he turns a _deadly_ gaze >on the perpetrator (unless it's Zia, in which case he does something >worse -- Wounded Hearts eyes ;^) and says, "I _meant_ the weaponry." "Ah, my mistake," Karma replies, mock-innocently, as if she hadn't semi-deliberately misconstrued the comment. >> Michael Seven shrugs, squeezing her shoulder. On his other arm is >>a not-so-familiar sight, his wife Flarn. >> "Are we in time for the briefing?" Flarn asks with a sly smile. >> "If this is a bad time, we can come by earlier," Mike adds. > > Roland and Morgan laugh. "_Damn,_ it's good to see you," Roland >replies as Morgan issues hugs all around. "And I'm tempted to tell >you it _is_ to just to watch Wrinkle's head explode." A small 'eep' >escapes Rio. Hugs are received and returned all around, including a semi-out-of-character, handshake-turned-hug from Mike to Roland, although he keeps it brief. ^Don't mind me, just had my decade-al reminder of how important it is to be there for your family {synopsis of his talk with Tink and the tragedy that is Atrus's family life}. Heard about your father, too, let me know if you want to talk.^ >>On Mon, 21 Feb 2005 17:36:15 -0800 (PST) >>Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012402 >> >> Drilea nods her head and smiles, "Then arraingements shall be made. >>However, I'm not exactly sure how well my um... other half's magical >>abilities will work in that reality and I don't trust my own melee >>skills until I'm more used to this shorter reach, so I'll see if I >>can't arrainge for some weapons as well." She winks as she looks >>about, 'Any empire or rebel tech for the shopping list?" > > "I direct your attention to the lovely collection of Sevens to >your right," Roland quips, winking at Mike. "When you absolutely, >positively need it there yesterday. Seriously, we don't have a lot of >Lucas-tech programmed into the system, but I imagine that will be >taken care of five minutes ago. They can't handle anything larger >than personal gear, so if you want an X-Wing you're out of luck." He >grins wickedly. "On the other hand, if you need Mandalorian armor, >we've got you covered." The leader Mike chuckles, removing a datapad and arching a brow. "Yep, done five minutes ago." He hands the pad to Tink. "Must all the lightsabers be pastels?" Tink reads through the list, "Mwahaha, yes. At least the grips are traditional. And everything else one could want in standard and customizable styles and colors. There's also a Theah directory... and one for Orrorsh. Wow, I'm good, or gonna be." "We could have told you that," Flarn says, resting a shoulder on the teenage Time Lady's shoulder. > "/If everyone's finished with the wisecracks,/" Roland inserts >indulgently, "/everyone who's not ready can pick up gear in the >com-sim room -- combat simulator -- and deal with other final prep as >necessary./" After a brief conference on the Champions tepe-link, he >continues. "/Seeker and Orchid will raise some Abyss in Theah, and >Quantum, Obsidian and Jaguar will hold the fort here. They'll respond >to any emergencies that arise and provide transport back when >necessary. > "/The Star Wars team will be taking the Slingshot, which readings >indicate will fit in nicely as an older corvette kept in 'cherry' >condition, while the Theah team will teleport into an area kept clear >by our contact there./" He nods to the group. "/If there are no other >questions, we'll meet back here in an hour./" Flarn squeezes Tink's shoulder, "Not to rush you, but isn't there somewhere you'd like to be?" Tink positively vibrates with excitement at the reminder. "Oh yeah!" Mike takes back the datapad. "I wish I had some last minute advice for you, but I'm sure you know everything I'd tell you. So, be careful, be good, do as the good guys tell you if you can't see a better way and explain why, and good luck." "We love you," Flarn prods with a smile. "I thought that was obvious," Mike says with a wink. "It is," Tink says, hugging them both, then vanishing into thin air with a "Buh-bye, love you!" Mike watchs the spot where Tink had been a moment before, Flarn doing the same. They both sigh wistfully. "Some things happen too quickly, even for time-travellers," Flarn says. Mike silently agrees. "Okay," Mike says finally, "We'll stick around until the teams are off then head off ourselves. So, if you need anything not in the computers, let us know." Moonstone rises, "I should get some practice time in with this blaster." Karma follows suit, "I'll be meditating. This waiting drives me batty. Not complaining, just self-observation." =========================== Subject: AAE9: Out of The Sandtrap, Into The Force Part 3 On Mon, 28 Feb 2005 02:50:17 -0500 Saint Dharma / Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012410 [Ed. note: the first part of this post is in Pulp Cosm/Nile Empire chapter 11.] Later, upon arriving at Champions Island... >On Sun, 06 Feb 2005 19:02:15 -0800 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012359 > > Roland chats with Seeker as members of the CAoL and Champions >trickle in to the briefing room. Both men are keeping subject and >tone alike light, but the strain is evident on them both. ... > "I didn't want to stay too long," Roland replies apologetically, >"even with the time differential." Suddenly there is a delicate sound of thunder as the BORIS One comes in for a landing on the tarmac outside the entrance. The hatch opens whereupon The Good Doctor and The Platinum Princess make their way down the gangplank. They march right in and take a seat that's available. "Sorry for the lateness of my arrival, friend Roland, but I was delayed in Cairo by unfinished business involving a certain Snowman. I doubt I have seen the last of him, but for now, I have bigger concerns. Like where can I find a glass of hot chai to drive the chill from my bones, for starters." said Romanov with a wry grin. OOC: Insert comment here "Now," said Romanov once he had finished the tea, "on to business." > "Any questions, and who's going where?" Roland asks. Romanov contacts the BORIS computer, #Computer, run analysis on possible locations for myself and Anna. Take into consideration all variables and upload results to my computer.# #Compliance.# Romanov speaks up, "I believe that Anna and I would like to accompany those going to the Empire. I believe there is a certain Imam who owes me a favor, and I doubt that the Celestial Chorus would want to lose one of their prize mosques in Ahmedabad." "I have one request, however. According to your mission reports," he said, "you helped defeat the Empire in another realm different from this cognate. I think it would behoove us to have a native guide of a sort to train those of us not familiar in the ways of The Force. I have had limited experience with this, but it sounds like just another form of energy. Anna, however, is not so gifted and could use training. Do you know of anyone in particular who could help?" OOC: Insert response here. "Da, that is good. Then we shall prepare ourselves for the journey. If anyone wishes to have transportation, please let me know so I can make accomodations." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Out of The Sandtrap, Into The Force Part 3 On Mon, 28 Feb 2005 05:58:24 -0800 (PST) Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00012411 >On Mon, 28 Feb 2005 02:50:17 -0500 >Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012410 < {##}[]================== Whoosh hum snip> >Romanov speaks up, "I believe that Anna and I would like to accompany >those going to the Empire. I believe there is a certain Imam who owes >me a favor, and I doubt that the Celestial Chorus would want to lose >one of their prize mosques in Ahmedabad." >"I have one request, however. According to your mission reports," he >said, "you helped defeat the Empire in another realm different from >this cognate. I think it would behoove us to have a native guide of a >sort to train those of us not familiar in the ways of The Force. I >have had limited experience with this, but it sounds like just >another form of energy. Anna, however, is not so gifted and could use >training. Do you know of anyone in particular who could help?" Drilea tries to surpress a smile as she comes out of her telepathic trance, "Well, there shall be some natives on their way to meet with us through my arraingements, though I very much doubt a Jedi will be among them. I shouldn't think it wise to mention an intrest in such training to the Sullustan pilot though. He has a bit of a phobia that's developed over the years from Chaos directing those with the skill towards him who are about to make the transition to the Dark Side. Last time a lad confessed being a Jedi to him, Forg ended up running screaming down the street. This from a bein who I've seen make a wookie quake with terror and actually try to hide rather than face Forg's wrath over a bit of joyriding in Forg's ship." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9: Onward On Tue, 01 Mar 2005 18:55:06 -0800 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012412 >On Fri, 25 Feb 2005 00:03:18 -0000 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00012406 >>On Wed, 23 Feb 2005 20:55:57 -0800 >>Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012403 > > Hugs are received and returned all around, including a >semi-out-of-character, handshake-turned-hug from Mike to Roland, >although he keeps it brief. > ^Don't mind me, just had my decade-al reminder of how important it >is to be there for your family {synopsis of his talk with Tink and >the tragedy that is Atrus's family life}. Heard about your father, >too, let me know if you want to talk.^ Roland winces. ^Yeah. Likewise. Not now for me, though -- the crisis has kept me too busy to mourn much. I can't afford to yet anyway.^ >> "I direct your attention to the lovely collection of Sevens to >>your right," Roland quips, winking at Mike. "When you absolutely, >>positively need it there yesterday. Seriously, we don't have a lot >>of Lucas-tech programmed into the system, but I imagine that will be >>taken care of five minutes ago. They can't handle anything larger >>than personal gear, so if you want an X-Wing you're out of luck." He >>grins wickedly. "On the other hand, if you need Mandalorian armor, >>we've got you covered." The leader > > Mike chuckles, removing a datapad and arching a brow. "Yep, done >five minutes ago." He hands the pad to Tink. "Must all the >lightsabers be pastels?" > Tink reads through the list, "Mwahaha, yes. At least the grips are >traditional. And everything else one could want in standard and >customizable styles and colors. There's also a Theah directory... and >one for Orrorsh. Wow, I'm good, or gonna be." > "We could have told you that," Flarn says, resting a shoulder on >the teenage Time Lady's shoulder. Roland blinks at the 'Orrorsh' comment and calls up the CI (Champs Island) directory. Yep, Victorian styles by way of King, Barker and Gorey... [Oh, and _Eric_ is going to be happy. Every monster-hunting bit of equipment known to man, and a few not known...hm, I wonder if replicated garlic is effective...] He shrugs. [Guess it wouldn't be in there if it weren't.] > Mike watchs the spot where Tink had been a moment before, Flarn >doing the same. They both sigh wistfully. > "Some things happen too quickly, even for time-travellers," Flarn >says. Mike silently agrees. Roland nods, then looks up. "/Oh, almost forgot, I'm there too,/" he mentions. "/Unintentional co-location, weird gateway glitch, if you care I'll let you know when I figure out what happened. On the off chance you hadn't known./" ===========================