Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 9: Star Wars / Space Opera Chapter 4 Subject: AAE 9s: Revelations On Fri, 22 Apr 2005 21:36:05 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012525 As the heroes relax, the Huttian barge falling behind as soon as the engine, er, dropped out, Anakin turns to face Padme. "Of all the reckless, irresponsible, grandstanding stunts -- !" Anakin blurts. "You're welcome," Padme replies with a grin. "I'm serious!" "I noticed," Padme quips dryly. "I didn't know you had a monopoly on that sort of thing." Anakin scowls. "I haven't pulled something that boneheaded in years." ^Oh, I can see where Leia gets it,^ Morgan comments privately. Roland shakes his head and chuckles. ^Each definitely took after one parent, didn't they?^ ^Master Qui-Gon,^ Morgan sends to the older Jedi, keeping Roland on the link, ^Vader knows he's here. Vader knows _she's_ here. It's only a matter of time before they find out somehow, and I think it's better than we give it to them straight now rather than try to fudge and have it come back to haunt everyone.^ Qui-Gon looks away, a haunted expression flickering across his face briefly. ^I had hoped...in our own world, our own timeline, it did not seem relevant, a dark fate avoided. Since we came here, however...I still thought to keep it from him, if possible. Now that he and this 'Vader' have faced one another, it seems that some sort of confrontation is inevitable. To attempt to conceal Vader's nature from him any further would be folly.^ ^So who tells him?^ Roland asks dryly. ^I'm sure not looking forward to this, though my job description kind of sticks me with it by default.^ ^He is my student,^ Qui-Gon notes. ^Though I would like you both to fill in the details, as you know the situation better than I...it should come from me, I think.^ The two immortals nod, Roland turning to contact Anakin psychically. He swallows at the sight of Anakin holding Padme in a tight hug, the young man looking haunted, the lady smiling both sadly and with love. "Padme...if anything ever happened to you..." "You'd survive," Padme replies firmly. She pulls back just enough to look him in the eyes. "You're stronger than you think." ^Ahem,^ Roland sends to Anakin. Annie turns, looking at Roland with mild confusion, Padme glancing between the two with a similar expression. ^Can we talk to you?^ "Anything you can say to me, you can say to Padme," Anakin replies coolly, as he can't help noticing that she is not in the private link. ^Are you sure? We have something we have to tell you.^ Roland looks a bit bleak. ^Something...that may be difficult to hear.^ ^She'll have to hear it eventually,^ Morgan adds, ^it's just a question of from us now, or from Anakin later.^ Anakin turns to look at the former queen. "Padme, they want to tell me something. It sounds...bad. If you want to wait, or..." Padme gives him a gentle squeeze. "You said it yourself, Anakin. Anything you can hear, I can hear." ^Have to admire their honesty with each other,^ Morgan sends just to her husband with a smile. "I'll take the controls, if you like," Roland offers. Padme relinquishes them gratefully -- it had been on auto-pilot while the pair had been hugging anyway. ^It's kind of funny, I think they're the only two people here who _don't_ know,^ Morgan notes. ^It's a _very_ popular fiction.^ Qui-Gon considers this. "Anakin," he says finally, once Anakin and Padme are seated across from him, "we can continue this privately if you wish, but I understand that most of the others already know what I am about to tell you." Anakin looks at Padme, who shrugs. The Jedi turns back to his master. "I suppose it doesn't matter, then. This has to do with that Darth Vader, doesn't it?" Morgan nods in time with Qui-Gon. "Very astute, Anakin," he replies. "He killed me, didn't he?" Anakin asks with surprising calm. "It had something to do with Amidala." Qui-Gon looks mildly surprised. "Not...exactly," he replies, "though that explanation has been used in the past. No." He looks down, breathes calmly and carefully, then faces Anakin again, centering himself in his lifelong training and in the endless support of the Light. "Anakin, there is no good way to say this, so I will simply tell you. Darth Vader _is_ you." For a split second, Anakin doesn't react. The thought simply goes through him, the impossibility of the concept deflecting it. Then the words filter through, their meaning registering over the course of the next few seconds. His eyes widen and his mouth goes dry. Distantly he feels Padme's hand tighten protectively, and simultaneously in terror, within his own. "He...what?" "He is your counterpart," Qui-Gon continues, "from the timeline that is invading this reality. Darth Vader is what you became in the future, when Roland and Morgan were not diverted into what they thought of as our galaxy's past." "In Vader's past, Roland wasn't there to free your mother from Watto," Morgan explains, then looks at Qui-Gon. "And it was your master who fought Darth Maul, and, not being immortal..." She shrugs. "Things sort of went downhill from there." "But...wait," Anakin replies, still in shock. "If Qui-Gon wasn't my master..._his_ master...who was?" "Obi-Wan," Morgan says simply. "_Obi-Wan?_" Qui-Gon replies in shock. "He was little more than a boy! By the Force, why would Obi-Wan take on a Padawan when he was yet one himself?" "Because you asked him to while you were dying in his arms," Morgan explains. "He killed Maul, and the council raised him to the rank of Jedi Knight." "Obi-Wan is a good man," Anakin says defensively. Padme has moved from his arm to his waist, as if she could keep the fate of Vader away by holding him closer. "Yes, he was, but even he regretted not having done better, in his later years." "He has become a great teacher over the past five years, Anakin," Qui-Gon adds, "but he was very conservative back then, as you recall, and the burden of training the Chosen One would have been great. I suspect he would have been most strict with you, and when the Sith made their move against Senator Amidala..." Anakin nods, looking sickened. "Even...with all that...how could I..." *We don't know all of the story, but from what information we've seen about the final chapter, you're befriended by the Sith Master, in disguise, while the Jedi seem to...keep you at arm's length. That version of you married Amidala in secret; if they found out...* Roland sends. "The Sith Master could offer me a way to be with her," Anakin responds, his voice as hollow as death, "and I can imagine being stupid enough to listen." "Except," Roland notes forcefully, "Vader _isn't_ with Padme, as his reaction should prove. As far as we can tell..." "...his Padme's been dead a little over twenty years," Morgan finishes. "See, our world is _different,_" Padme insists stridently, eyes squeezed shut as she locks her arms around him, "and none of that is going to happen to you." Finally, Anakin breathes out and returns the embrace, if more gently. "No. It's not." Roland lets out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. A few moments later, the comm unit crackles with static. {Rebel base to inbound vessel, please identify,} a familiar voice demands politely. Roland's eyes bulge out, and he and Morgan look at each other in a near panic. Qui-Gon strides to the communicator, glancing briefly at Roland before responding. "Jinn to Organa. This is 'Naboo Outrider,' callsign D-2-R-5." The voice warms. {Confirmed, Qui-Gon. Good to see you and your local friends got out in one piece. I'll bet you have one hell of a story to tell.} The Jedi looks at Roland with deceptive mildness. "Perhaps even more of one than I know yet, Princess Leia. Outrider out." He cuts the connection. "Roland? Morgan? Is there more we should know?" "Qui-Gon, remember how you were hoping that it wouldn't be necessary to go into some things?" Morgan smiles sheepishly. A face all too like her grandfather's when he expected an explanation gazes back at her. "Wellll..." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Empire Strikes Out On Sat, 23 Apr 2005 04:00:46 -0400 Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012526 >On Thu, 21 Apr 2005 20:28:23 -0700 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012521 > >Finally... >>On Sun, 17 Apr 2005 02:37:23 -0400 >>Saint Dharma As CAoL Message # 00012511 >> >>Volkov smiled and thought, ["Now I have her and her beloved uncle."] >>as he turned his left hand palm out and the glowing blue chain >>reeled her in like an ice angler reeling in a fish. The whip in his >>right hand turned into a glowing red spike, and he moved to impale >>the Platinum Princess. > > ^Morgan, you know what to do,^ Roland sends, then leaps a tall >mast in a single bound, landing next to Volkov and sending a surge of >power through the pseudo-techno-demon's massive amount of >cybernetics. This was not nearly as successful as his usual attempts, >nor as he would have liked, but given the electronic _and_ magical >defenses in Tharkoldu Spellware, the spasms and distraction are about >what he expected. > "So," Volkov hisses delightedly, to Roland's annoyance. "You are >the legendary Defender. I have always wanted to test my skill against >yours." > "It's not like you can miss our island," the 'captain' notes >dryly. > "Your power was too great," Volkov admits freely. "Here and now, >however..." With that, the Icedemon throws out its brutal metallic >hand. A wave of numbing cold blasts forth, followed by a sheet of ice >interwoven with some sort of filaments glowing..._wrong_ly. > Back towards the center of the barge, Roland and Volkov are >ignoring a barrage of blaster fire as lightsaber clashes with Minbari >pike and a pyrokinetic wave challenges the wall of icy death >threatening to overwhelm the hero. "HA ha ha ha ha! Is this the best >'The World's Mightiest Hero' can do?" > Volkov's glee dies a swift and merciless death at the sight of >Roland smiling back at him. "Volkov, why am I here?" He asks. > "To face me," the Icedemon replies, only the slightest touch of >uncertainty leaking into his voice. > "EEHHHTT! _Wrong_ answer!" the Eternal replies wickedly, blasting >lightning into the cyborg's enhanced eyes and ears. As Volkov screams >in pain, sensory deprivation and frustration, Roland scoops up Ana in >a telekinetic wave and explodes back towards the heroes' speeder. The last the Volkov remembered was the pain, then silence. He could still feel, with the cold steel of the deck plate a reminder that he was still alive. His throat was raw, like having to swallow sulfuric acid with a lime chaser. He realized that it was from screaming, since his darkest fears came to life. Ever since that fateful day near Romanov's lab, he had a dread fear of lightning. In his mind, he could still see the arc of the lightning emitting from that hidden Tesla coil striking the automaton and blasting him into the cold Siberian snow. In the dark of his pain, he did the only thing he could do.he passed out, the sound of demonic laughter that was not a sound at all following him into the dark. . Moments later, he awoke. However, it was not some demonic hell or some mad doctors' lab in India, but something far worse. The snow whipped around his legs like a white serpent born from the 9th circle of Hell. He realized it was Siberia, his beloved homeland. There was a flash, and a dark castle appeared on the horizon like something out of Stoker or Poe. There was another flash, and he returned to that day. He was looking down on his prostrate form. A large smoking hole was where his chest used to be. He heard a noise, and turned. A large demon in white scales appeared, and it was smiling. /"This is how you came to be."/ ,said a voice from within his head. It was not from the demon, because the demon passed through him as if going through the mist. It knelt down, and gathered a handful of snow. The white of the snow contrasted with the blood mixed in, and Volkov realized with revulsion and understanding that it was his blood. The demon pressed its' hands together, and there was a flash of dark fire and then where there was snow and blood a crystal remained. An ice blue crystal with flecks of ruby red inside, which the demon then stuck into his head. As he watched, his past self twitched then began to glow blue, then a flash of bright red and blue. The demon disappeared in the flash, and his last sight before blacking out from the pain was his past self getting up from the snow. His blackness was not total, as new images passed in his mind. The attempt to kidnap Anna Romanov and its' failure, the capturing and then losing of the Spear of Destiny, and several instances where he spread misinformation about the Traditions to his superiors at the Order of Reason, later called the NWO. All the while, a voice like silk spoke in his mind, /"These are the things that you have done in evil. Evil that has served to keep the balance. Now the balance is overturned, and Oblivion seeks the unraveling of the multiverse. This cannot continue, so the Celestials and the Infernals have come to an understanding. All battles will cease until the Other is removed from the field."/ He turned to look and saw both a demon Prince and a Celestial being standing side by side. His demon master grimaced, but nodded as if to agree. /"I understand. I will do what you will of me."/ said Volkov The pain flashed again, and this time it was different. This time, he could see for real. He was no longer on the deck of the barge, but instead was on a modification table. A lowly Tharkoldu tech was putting the finishing touches on the left cyberarm, and had just released the restraints when Volkov blasted it into the wall, freezing it in place but not killing. "FOOL!" shouted Volkov with a newfound sense of authority, "You dare to service my weapon without prostrating yourself." The demon's eyes widened, and then lowered in submission. "I am sorry, my lord. Thratchen instructed me to see to your injuries. I was able to replace the eyes and ears with vat-grown tissue, since the interface had burned out due to massive amounts of electricity entering in. Your arm just needed minor repairs, and I even provided some upgrades." The demon bowed its' head as low as it could. Volkov waved his left hand and the ice disappeared. The tech fell to the floor with a splash as the melting ice made a puddle on the dark gun-metal grey floor. There was a sound of talons on steel as the tech skulked over to the control panel. The lowly being extended a claw and pressed the button for all the restraints and pain amplifiers. .. A buzzing noise came from the comm station near the control panel.. {Is my retainer ready?} said a familiar voice (to Volkov anyway.) The tech replied, {Yes, my Prince. Your batman is rested and repaired. Shall I send him to you?} "No need," came the reply but not from the comlink. In the doorway stood the largest demon he had ever seen. And he realized with that he had seen the white demon once before. The Prince looked Volkov over, and then activated the telepathic link. /"While I do not agree with aligning myself with our adversaries, my Lord has deemed it necessary to cease our activities in regards to Doctor Energy. If we are to succeed, appearances will have to stand as they are. You are my retainer, and that is all you need to know, my Iceblade."/ Volkov smiled at the name his 'new master' called him. /"Iceblade. You are most cunning, my lord. Whom shall I cut first?"/ The prince smiled, which had more shark-like teeth than the average Tharkoldu. "You have recovered well, whelp. Perhaps the pain has served to remind you of your place in things, and not get overconfident in your battles. Defender is too much for you. But We will deal with him and his Rebel friends soon enough. For now, you are to serve me until we reach the Imperial Palace. There you will assist in guarding the statue until such time as I need you." Volkov bowed low, barely scraping the floor with his forehead and horns. "Yes, my master." Meanwhile, the lowly tech took note of the exchange. It crept out of the room, and activated the comlink hidden in its' clothing. "Lord Markoth, I have done as you ordered. The new Prince has arrived and the strange Tharkoldu that was injured is his retainer. OOC: And the plot, as they say, thickens.. > Roland, uncharacteristically, laughs. "I'll worry more about >Markoth when he gets better writers." He turns to Padme, moving >carefully around the protective Anakin. "How are we doing?" > "37 minutes to rendezvous," Padme replies. > "Excellent. Take five, everybody," Roland sighs. *"Except if >someone can get a fix on our strays, I'd appreciate it."* Meanwhile, back on the skiff, Ana's eyes fluttered open as the repair subroutines finished their job. Her green eyes fell on Roland, as he was worrying over something important. Her hands absent-mindedly went to her neck. The repair routines were able to heal the worst damage done by the ice chains, but their mark was unmistakable. [I suppose it is a small sacrifice. Besides,] she thought, [I always wanted to get a tattoo.] The Platinum Princess shifted her clothing to a slightly torn peasant style dress, batted her eyelids, and said in a contralto straight out of a Harlequin romance (complete with conical hat), "My Hero!" pausing for effect as the joke sinks in before reverting to her normal manner of appearance. OOC: Insert comment, pleas to the gods, or groans here. :-D Flashing her trademark impish grin, her features turned deadly serious as she activated the PDA in her forearm. Pressing a few buttons, her features softened then lightened. "He's alive. The signal is weak but I believe I can triangulate my uncles' whereabouts. If I had a way to boost the carrier wave without detection by sensors, I can even tie into his power suit. That will allow all visual and audible data to be transmitted to me which I can then transmit through any video or holographic unit." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Empire Strikes Out On Mon, 25 Apr 2005 08:22:02 -0400 David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012530 >L.J. Wolfe wrote: >>> "Frozen magics?" Roland mutters. "What is he _on?_ Don't answer >>>that," Grephnix shuts his mouth and shrugs blandly. >> > > OOC: Well, Markoth's magic is freeform. Like a lot of similar >wizards and sorcerers (though definitely not all -- c.f. Morgan) on >Earth-9 with such powers, he has something of a superiority complex >about it. Folx who cast prepared spells or one-purpose rituals, like >most D&D style wizards, are 'beneath' them. Of course, those selfsame >freeform magics are less predictable -- comes with the territory... OOC: I suddenly have this *image* of Markoth meeting Roger (Prime) for the first time, and dropping to his knees and kowtowing like crazy in the presence of the Flexible One himself. Sort of like when Bill Cosby encountered the Satanist cabdriver in "Ghost Dad." Roger's reaction, of course, would be *priceless.* >>>he decides, "just put the pedal to the metal, Padme!" >>> "In BASIC!" she shouts back. >>> "Full throttle!" Roland snaps. Grephnix, again, stops short of pitching in with a helpful translation of nonlocal colloquailisms. Obviously, it's just not his day. >>the whip snaked over Volkovs' head. It was a mistake, because in his >>left hand an ice blue chain suddenly appeared and whipped around the >>Platinum Princess' neck like a cold steel python. > > "Great Scott," Roland blurts, rather amazingly like a hero of his. Grepnix surreptitiously checks Roland's chest for any "S"-shaped markings... >>Volkov smiled and thought, ["Now I have her and her beloved uncle."] >>as he turned his left hand palm out and the glowing blue chain >>reeled her in like an ice angler reeling in a fish. The whip in his >>right hand turned into a glowing red spike, and he moved to impale >>the Platinum Princess. > > ^Morgan, you know what to do,^ Roland sends, then leaps a tall >mast in a single bound, landing next to Volkov and sending a surge of >power through the pseudo-techno-demon's massive amount of >cybernetics. This was not nearly as successful as his usual attempts, >nor as he would have liked, but given the electronic _and_ magical >defenses in Tharkoldu Spellware, the spasms and distraction are about >what he expected. Grephnix follows, on a slightly divergent trajectory that takes him into a pool of shadow cast by the barge's superstructure... and disappears. A moment later, technodemons and troops about the barge begin to fall to "strafing" attacks from a brilliant blue lightsaber wielded by a figure which darts from shadow to shadow, striking down opponents with precise single strokes. > "So," Volkov hisses delightedly, to Roland's annoyance. "You are >the legendary Defender. I have always wanted to test my skill against >yours." > "It's not like you can miss our island," the 'captain' notes >dryly. OOC: Just with every shot so far. ...what? SOMEONE had to say it! > "EEHHHTT! _Wrong_ answer!" the Eternal replies wickedly, blasting >lightning into the cyborg's enhanced eyes and ears. As Volkov screams >in pain, sensory deprivation and frustration, Roland scoops up Ana in >a telekinetic wave and explodes back towards the heroes' speeder. > Half a second later the barge's engines tear themselves out of >their moorings. > Roland chuckles as the barge rapidly falls back, with Markoth >forced to channel what little concentration he can afford into >keeping the barge from crashing into the ground (which would not >threaten any civilians, as they have long since left behind >civilization). Before anyone can become concerned about Grephnix's absence, the Grey Jedi stands up from a bit of shadow on the speeder's floor that is too small to contain an Ewok, much less a somewhat-taller-than-average human male. He rolls his shoulders, as if trying to work out some kinks, and doffs his hood again. "Tight fit," he remarks offhandedly. > "Don't forget to write!" Roland laughs with a wave. > "@#%$&@* you, Defender! You haven't seen the last of ME!" Markoth >roars as the barge slowly sinks. > "More's the pity," Morgan mutters disdainfully. "We *could* paint him purple and attach an SEP field," Grephnix comments in a tone that makes it difficult to determine if he's being serious or wry, "but that would likely be an example of a cure worse than the disease." > Roland, uncharacteristically, laughs. "I'll worry more about >Markoth when he gets better writers." He turns to Padme, moving >carefully around the protective Anakin. "How are we doing?" > "37 minutes to rendezvous," Padme replies. > "Excellent. Take five, everybody," Roland sighs. *"Except if >someone can get a fix on our strays, I'd appreciate it."* Grephnix folds up into a stylized lotus position on the *outside* of the speeder ("no sudden turns, please"), with one toe keeping contact with the vehicle. "Wake me up when we get there, please." With that, he droops into either sleep or an *extremely* relaxed form of meditation.... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Empire Strikes Out On Mon, 25 Apr 2005 13:22:09 -0700 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00012531 >On Mon, 25 Apr 2005 08:22:02 -0400 >David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012530 > >> "Don't forget to write!" Roland laughs with a wave. >> "@#%$&@* you, Defender! You haven't seen the last of ME!" Markoth >>roars as the barge slowly sinks. >> >>"More's the pity," Morgan mutters disdainfully. > > "We *could* paint him purple and attach an SEP field," Grephnix >comments in a tone that makes it difficult to determine if he's being >serious or wry, "but that would likely be an example of a cure worse >than the disease." "Law of Unintended Consequences, lad," counters the Bard. "If he had an SEP field attached (like my plasma mine did) why would anybody bother fighting him?" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Empire Strikes Out On Tue, 26 Apr 2005 10:08:59 -0400 David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012534 >Richard Bagnall wrote: >> "We *could* paint him purple and attach an SEP field," Grephnix >>comments in a tone that makes it difficult to determine if he's >>being serious or wry, "but that would likely be an example of a cure >>worse than the disease." > >"Law of Unintended Consequences, lad," counters the Bard. "If he had >an SEP field attached (like my plasma mine did) why would anybody >bother fighting him?" "Quite so, Master Bard," Grephnix agrees. "In Markoth's case, SEP-induced invisibility might render him less offensive, but cetainly more dangerous." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Empire Strikes Out On Fri, 29 Apr 2005 18:26:23 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012541 >On Sat, 23 Apr 2005 04:00:46 -0400 >Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012526 > >>On Thu, 21 Apr 2005 20:28:23 -0700 >>Morgan and Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012521 >"No need," came the reply but not from the comlink. In the doorway >stood the largest demon he had ever seen. And he realized with that >he had seen the white demon once before. OOC: I'll get to the white demon later in the post; just a reminder for the moment. >Meanwhile, back on the skiff, Ana's eyes fluttered open as the repair >subroutines finished their job. Her green eyes fell on Roland, as he >was worrying over something important. > >Her hands absent-mindedly went to her neck. The repair routines were >able to heal the worst damage done by the ice chains, but their mark >was unmistakable. [I suppose it is a small sacrifice. Besides,] she >thought, [I always wanted to get a tattoo.] > >The Platinum Princess shifted her clothing to a slightly torn peasant >style dress, batted her eyelids, and said in a contralto straight out >of a Harlequin romance (complete with conical hat), "My Hero!" >pausing for effect as the joke sinks in before reverting to her >normal manner of appearance. Roland whirls around, eyes widening slightly. Then he blushes(tm). "Ah. Mm. You're welcome." Morgan raises an eyebrow at the odd juxtaposition of a noblewoman's headwear over a peasant's gown, but says nothing. >Flashing her trademark impish grin, her features turned deadly >serious as she activated the PDA in her forearm. Pressing a few >buttons, her features softened then lightened. "He's alive. The >signal is weak but I believe I can triangulate my uncles' >whereabouts. If I had a way to boost the carrier wave without >detection by sensors, I can even tie into his power suit. That will >allow all visual and audible data to be transmitted to me which I can >then transmit through any video or holographic unit." "I think I can still manage that," Roland replies, holding his hand up and experimentally sending some electricity crackling between his fingers, "in spite of my lower power levels in this reality." Next! >On Mon, 25 Apr 2005 08:22:02 -0400 >David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012530 > >>L.J. Wolfe wrote: >> >> OOC: Well, Markoth's magic is freeform. Like a lot of similar >>wizards and sorcerers (though definitely not all -- c.f. Morgan) on >>Earth-9 with such powers, he has something of a superiority complex >>about it. > > OOC: I suddenly have this *image* of Markoth meeting Roger >(Prime) for the first time, and dropping to his knees and kowtowing >like crazy in the presence of the Flexible One himself. Sort of like >when Bill Cosby encountered the Satanist cabdriver in "Ghost Dad." OOC: Probably not. Like a lot of supervillains, Markoth's power is exceeded only by his overweening ego. Even if he did acknowledge on some level that Roger was an order of magnitude beyond him, he'd never say it. Still, it _is_ funny to contemplate. 8^) >> ^Morgan, you know what to do,^ Roland sends, then leaps a tall >>mast in a single bound, landing next to Volkov and sending a surge >>of power through the pseudo-techno-demon's massive amount of >>cybernetics. > > Grephnix follows, on a slightly divergent trajectory that takes >him into a pool of shadow cast by the barge's superstructure... and >disappears. A trio of techno-demons begin to converge on the Grey Jedi...then stop, puzzled, as he keeps falling _through_ the shadows he leaped into. Or so it seemed to them. "I _must_ learn that spell," one of them mutters to itself. >> Roland chuckles as the barge rapidly falls back, with Markoth >>forced to channel what little concentration he can afford into >>keeping the barge from crashing into the ground > > Before anyone can become concerned about Grephnix's absence, the >Grey Jedi stands up from a bit of shadow on the speeder's floor that >is too small to contain an Ewok, much less a somewhat-taller-than- >average human male. > He rolls his shoulders, as if trying to work out some kinks, and >doffs his hood again. "Tight fit," he remarks offhandedly. Roland raises an eyebrow. "Something tells me," he notes dryly, "that that's not a traditional Jedi trick." "No," Qui-Gon and Anakin say in unison. >> "Excellent. Take five, everybody," Roland sighs. > > Grephnix folds up into a stylized lotus position on the *outside* >of the speeder ("no sudden turns, please"), "You can complain to any Imperials who shoot at us," Padme quips. >with one toe keeping contact with the vehicle. "Wake me up when we >get there, please." With that, he droops into either sleep or an >*extremely* relaxed form of meditation.... Qui-Gon shakes his head, muttering something quietly to himself about showing off and what pride goes before. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Empire Strikes Out On Thu, 5 May 2005 03:09:52 -0400 Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012546 >On Fri, 29 Apr 2005 18:26:23 -0700 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012541 > >>On Sat, 23 Apr 2005 04:00:46 -0400 >>Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012526 >> > >>"No need," came the reply but not from the comlink. In the doorway >>stood the largest demon he had ever seen. And he realized with that >>he had seen the white demon once before. > > OOC: I'll get to the white demon later in the post; just a >reminder for the moment. OOC: I understand....Just to say, I believe that The Sims was also created by the Sith because it is very, very evil. Part of the reason why I haven't posted anything yet. (That and I would like to see Ep 3 for more ideas.) >>The Platinum Princess shifted her clothing to a slightly torn >>peasant style dress, batted her eyelids, and said in a contralto >>straight out of a Harlequin romance (complete with conical hat), "My >>Hero!" pausing for effect as the joke sinks in before reverting to >>her normal manner of appearance. > > Roland whirls around, eyes widening slightly. Then he blushes(tm). >"Ah. Mm. You're welcome." > >Morgan raises an eyebrow at the odd juxtaposition of a noblewoman's >headwear over a peasant's gown, but says nothing. OOC: I should have known better than to try to get that past a SCAdian. ;-) The Platinum Princess notices Morgan's raised eyebrow and adds, "Normally I would choose the traditional garb of a Russian noblewoman, but since this is India and not Kiev, 5 layers of clothing is just not practical.not to mention hotter than the Devil's shoes." With a flourish and bow to Roland, she shifts again to a loose cotton shirt, khaki shorts and leather sandals. >>Flashing her trademark impish grin, her features turned deadly >>serious as she activated the PDA in her forearm. Pressing a few >>buttons, her features softened then lightened. "He's alive. The >>signal is weak but I believe I can triangulate my uncles' >>whereabouts. If I had a way to boost the carrier wave without >>detection by sensors, I can even tie into his power suit. That will >>allow all visual and audible data to be transmitted to me which I >>can then transmit through any video or holographic unit." > > "I think I can still manage that," Roland replies, holding his >hand up and experimentally sending some electricity crackling between >his fingers, "in spite of my lower power levels in this reality." Ana grins mischievously, "Then perhaps it is time to make contact" she says as she presses a few places on her right arm, opening the PDA panel. Tapping furiously for a moment while glancing at Roland, she smiles and says, "Your skills with electricity become useful here, because I will need to transmit on a broadband frequency in order to pinpoint my uncle's location and re-establish the cyber-link. Once I have the location and the link, you must transmit on a frequency of 5.5 MHz. No more because more would spike the energy matrix which would cut the link and no less because while it would be enough for me, it wouldn't be enough to re-establish the link on his end." Ana's left arm flows and shifts, and becomes a silver mini-Tesla coil. "Place your hand on the sphere, and we will begin." Ana Romanov "Thunder is impressive, but it's lightning that does the work"--Mark Twain =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Empire Strikes Out On Sat, 07 May 2005 22:11:27 -0400 David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012549 >L.J. Wolfe wrote: >> Before anyone can become concerned about Grephnix's absence, the >>Grey Jedi stands up from a bit of shadow on the speeder's floor that >>is too small to contain an Ewok, much less a somewhat-taller-than- >>average human male. >> He rolls his shoulders, as if trying to work out some kinks, and >>doffs his hood again. "Tight fit," he remarks offhandedly. > > Roland raises an eyebrow. "Something tells me," he notes dryly, >"that that's not a traditional Jedi trick." > "No," Qui-Gon and Anakin say in unison. Grephnix shrugs blandly. "The Jedi 'corporate culture,' if you will, has been suffering from something akin to ossification for the past several generations, especially in the fields of research and development into nontraditional Force applications. As my prime self is a notorious innovator, it was inevitable that I would bring some, perhaps even a pronounced, degree of unconventionality to my vocation." >> Grephnix folds up into a stylized lotus position on the *outside* >>of the speeder ("no sudden turns, please"), > > "You can complain to any Imperials who shoot at us," Padme quips. Grephnix favors her with a quiet but sincerely amused smile. "Of a surety, I will do so, Lady Padme." >>with one toe keeping contact with the vehicle. "Wake me up when we >>get there, please." With that, he droops into either sleep or an >>*extremely* relaxed form of meditation.... > > Qui-Gon shakes his head, muttering something quietly to himself >about showing off and what pride goes before. Inside his hood, Grephnix merely smiles again. This particular thread of his plan is succeeding, it seems... OOC: And MY Plan is succedding as well. Bwahahahahahaaaaa...... =========================== Subject: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Fri, 20 May 2005 19:59:18 -0700 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012554 >On Thu, 5 May 2005 03:09:52 -0400 >Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012546 > >>On Fri, 29 Apr 2005 18:26:23 -0700 >>Morgan and Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00012541 >> >>>On Sat, 23 Apr 2005 04:00:46 -0400 >>>Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012526 >>>Flashing her trademark impish grin, her features turned deadly >>>serious as she activated the PDA in her forearm. Pressing a few >>>buttons, her features softened then lightened. "He's alive. The >>>signal is weak but I believe I can triangulate my uncles' >>>whereabouts. If I had a way to boost the carrier wave without >>>detection by sensors, I can even tie into his power suit. That will >>>allow all visual and audible data to be transmitted to me which I >>>can then transmit through any video or holographic unit." >> >> "I think I can still manage that," Roland replies, holding his >>hand up and experimentally sending some electricity crackling >>between his fingers, "in spite of my lower power levels in this >>reality." > >Ana grins mischievously, "Then perhaps it is time to make contact" >she says as she presses a few places on her right arm, opening the >PDA panel. Tapping furiously for a moment while glancing at Roland, >she smiles and says, "Your skills with electricity become useful >here, because I will need to transmit on a broadband frequency in >order to pinpoint my uncle's location and re-establish the >cyber-link. Once I have the location and the link, you must transmit >on a frequency of 5.5 MHz. No more because more would spike the >energy matrix which would cut the link and no less because while it >would be enough for me, it wouldn't be enough to re-establish he link >on his end." Roland nods. #Activate HUD: Mhz output monitor.# #Understood,# his armor replies, and a holographic visor comes to life around and over his eyes. He smiles a pirate's smile. "Ready when you are." >Ana's left arm flows and shifts, and becomes a silver mini-Tesla >coil. "Place your hand on the sphere, and we will begin." Roland gently places his hand on the globe at the end of the coil-arm. "I feel like I'm being fresh," he half-quips, then readies the power within him. When he's satisfied with his control over the output, the Eternal provides her with precisely the energy requested. Later, presumably... >On Sat, 07 May 2005 22:11:27 -0400 >David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012549 > >>L.J. Wolfe wrote: >>> Before anyone can become concerned about Grephnix's absence, the >>>Grey Jedi stands up from a bit of shadow on the speeder's floor >>>that is too small to contain an Ewok, much less a >>>somewhat-taller-than-average human male. >>> He rolls his shoulders, as if trying to work out some kinks, and >>>doffs his hood again. "Tight fit," he remarks offhandedly. >> >> Roland raises an eyebrow. "Something tells me," he notes dryly, >>"that that's not a traditional Jedi trick." >> "No," Qui-Gon and Anakin say in unison. > > Grephnix shrugs blandly. "The Jedi 'corporate culture,' if you >will, has been suffering from something akin to ossification for the >past several generations, especially in the fields of research and >development into nontraditional Force applications. As my prime self >is a notorious innovator, it was inevitable that I would bring some, >perhaps even a pronounced, degree of unconventionality to my >vocation." "I would hardly call it a 'corporate culture,'" Qui-Gon objects mildly. "Though you _have_ commented on the...how did you put it? 'The moribund nature of Jedi dogma.'" Anakin grins insouciantly, if fondly, at his mentor. "Isn't that the reason for our entire experiment, the 'new Jedi order' you want to form?" Qui-Gon coughs. "It would not be a competing order," the old Master notes calmly, "but rather complementary, to provide an alternative to the Sith among those Force-wielders we find who embrace their passions yet reject the anger and hate of the Dark Side." "Yeah, all ten of us," Anakin quips. "The Sith are very...thorough," Qui-Gon agrees, "but do not underestimate the power of the Force. Ours is an era of contraction and retreat for the Republic, and even at its height our explorers were finding inhabited worlds, many of which had native Force-wielders." The great Jedi frowns slightly. "In fact," he adds, "it occurs to me that in that ancient epoch, some of those worlds would have more Force adepts than what remains to the entire Jedi order in our time." "Master Qui-Gon," Morgan says, "Have the Jedi not considered that the decrease in numbers is their own fault? After all, if those who are strong in the Force are removed from the genetic pool..." Qui-Gon begins to speak. He stops. The Jedi master opens his mouth again, then closes it. Ani tries not to chuckle, nearly succeeding. After a pause, he strokes his beard and leans back. "You know, that concept has nearly formed in my mind on more than one occasion, but the concept of Jedi having children is so alien, that my consciousness simply refused to entertain the notion." Padme grins. "I'm glad it's not so foreign to Ani." Ani's humor vanishes, and while he is not as adept in blushing as Roland, makes a game showing of it. "PADME!" Senator Amidala laughs. "Oh come _on,_ Ani. It isn't as if we're some great secret." /Thank the Source,/ Roland replies. "I certainly hope you continue to be politic about it, Padme," Qui-Gon says. "I've been a politician since I was 14," Padme fires back a touch stiffly, "as Obi-Wan delights in reminding me routinely." "Obi-Wan doesn't mean anything by it," Anakin replies, just the slightest bit defensive. >>>with one toe keeping contact with the vehicle. "Wake me up when we >>>get there, please." With that, he droops into either sleep or an >>>*extremely* relaxed form of meditation.... 32 minutes later. The rebel base outside Hyderabad is, typically for the Rebel Alliance, a hodgepodge of scrounged equipment and hastily-arranged defensive "emplacements" (90% of which are just parked starfighters and freighters with guns). Activity is somewhat subdued as the heroes approach, though that changes quickly when they are spotted. As the damaged speeder lands, rebels quickly run to and surround it, and if people can cheer quietly, they do. "Okay, people, okay, let them out," a voice familiar to everyone who's seen the stories (or visited the reality) calls out, cutting through the noise and the crowd with equal ease. A moment later, Leia Organa, Wedge Antilles and Luke Skywalker walk up to the heroes. "We're glad to see you, Jedi, Champions." "And I have about a million questions," Luke adds, his innocent face split into a wide smile. Anakin swallows. "Well, I can only give you so many answers," Qui-Gon replies with perfect calm and control. "Our time differs from yours, and we hope to interfere with the proper flow as little as possible." "That's encouraging," Wedge replies. "I think." "This is Wedge," Leia explains, "and Luke." She gestures to the two leaders of Rogue Squadron. Qui-Gon nods. "An honor. Even during our brief time here, I have come to learn of the storied Rogue Squadron." Leia scowls slightly. "Fear not," he adds with a faint grin. "I can be discreet at need. This is Padme and...Ani." "Is 'Ani' your apprentice?" Luke asks. "He's...glowing." "The Force is strong in you, as well," Ani replies, slowly pulling his hood over his head. "He was," Qui-Gon explains. "He recently passed the Trials. Ani is now a full Jedi Knight. For the most part, he is partnered with -- a mutual friend. We all agreed it would be for the best if I accompanied him to this world, however." (OOC: Insert other introductions here. Tag Zia and Martin, as mentioned above. Most people seem to be sticking to first names, though Master Jinn and Princess Organa don't seem to be too worried about their own.) -- Roland, Morgan & co. "Destroy the Sith, we _must._" =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: A run through the jungle (fwd) On Sat, 21 May 2005 06:57:19 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00012555 Somewhere south of Hyderabad, a shadow slips from tree to tree. [I can't imagine why they decided to flood this area with searchers,] Rob thinks, as a pair of stormtroopers cruise by on speeder bikes, [but at least I can still cloud men's minds in this cosm.] As the Imperials leave the area, Rob fades back into view, and moves on, when a tree branch lashes out at him, biting his arm. He barely stifles a yelp as the python drags him into the canopy, and begins wrapping itself around him. [Got to get loose,] he thinks, [and I can't out-muscle it...] Then he hears the sound of another pair of speeder bikes. *Let go...better food* he projects, driving the concept into the snake's mind. For a moment, the python continues to tighten its grip, but then it lets go. As the troopers approach, Rob drops from the branch, drawing their attention. They turn towards him, but before they can report, the python takes one, while Rob catches a branch, turning his fall into a flying kick that unseats the other. As he removes his victim's helmet and tears out the built-in commlink, he tries not to listen to the cracks and snaps coming from above. Then he turns back to his original task; getting to the rebel base without bringing trouble with him. Sixty minutes later, he reaches the outer perimeter, fairly certain that he hasn't left any trail that can be followed. =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Sat, 21 May 2005 13:06:30 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012556 >On Fri, 20 May 2005 19:59:18 -0700 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012554 > > "The Force is strong in you, as well," Ani replies, slowly pulling >his hood over his head. > "He was," Qui-Gon explains. "He recently passed the Trials. Ani is >now a full Jedi Knight. For the most part, he is partnered with -- a >mutual friend. We all agreed it would be for the best if I >accompanied him to this world, however." "So you finally made it to the party." A lazy voice comes from the black and white vested woman standing under (quite a bit under) the huge Wookie at her back. She is a short brunette, but her face isn't familiar. She hooks thumbs under her wide belt, the holstered blaster tied down to her thigh. "I thought you looked like rebels, but when you failed to show up for your ride..." She shrugs, with a glance at Roger. "The jewels were handy for equipment on the black market, though. M'name is Solo; Zian Solo. Captain of the Milennium Unicorn over there. This is Chewie. Unless Roger has already told you about me." She doesn't seem all that pleased to see all the Jedi, alone among the rebels. Captain Zian Solo =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Mon, 23 May 2005 12:53:39 -0400 David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012557 >On Sat, 21 May 2005 13:06:30 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012556 > >"I thought you looked like rebels, but when you failed to show up for >your ride..." She shrugs, with a glance at Roger. "The jewels were >handy for equipment on the black market, though. M'name is Solo; Zian >Solo. Captain of the Milennium Unicorn over there. This is Chewie. >Unless Roger has already told you about me." She doesn't seem all >that pleased to see all the Jedi, alone among the rebels. OOC: Originally, I just assumed that Grephnix caught up with the then-nameless Captain after the events in "Smuggler's Blues" off-camera, but wottheheck, I can work with this. /OOC Rogas Grephnix's unflappable demeanor slips as he does a double take at this, then a triple, before seguing smoothly into an "I should have known" grin. He doffs his hood and sweeps Captain Solo a courtly bow devoid of irony but lightly laced with self-deprecating humor. "Then it was money well-invested to our mutual benefit, if perhaps not quite as planned," he replies. "It is often said that the Force moves in inexplicable ways. I do regret not making our rendezvous, but necessity dictated that I find... alternative means, with insufficient advance notice to allow me to contact you. I must confess that I am pleased to find you, here and now -- not only do you appear to have exited our previous conretemps without evident harm, but I suspect we may well have need of a pilot and ship such as you and yours, before long." OOC: Writing Grephnix's dialogue is *weird.* I feel like my brain's twisted into a mobius strip... =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Mon, 23 May 2005 21:28:58 -0700 Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00012558 OOC: Sorry for the long absence. Work(paid and otherwise), plus a sudden onset of the ossification of my writing skills. But now, onto the Rod Sirling Memorial Rebel Base... >On Fri, 20 May 2005 19:59:18 -0700 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012554 > > (OOC: Insert other introductions here. Tag Zia and Martin, as >mentioned above. Most people seem to be sticking to first names, >though Master Jinn and Princess Organa don't seem to be too worried >about their own. "I am Quiet Moon, a Kai Lord. I apologize if my usefulness has been limited to date. I will try to do better in the future." The Kai blinks slightly; the whole room is fairly screaming with Mindforce potential. "If anyone here needs healing, I have some skills that might prove useful." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Thu, 26 May 2005 03:47:49 -0500 Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012559 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012554 > > >>Ana grins mischievously, "Then perhaps it is time to make contact" >>she says as she presses a few places on her right arm, opening the >>PDA panel. Tapping furiously for a moment while glancing at Roland, >>she smiles and says, "Your skills with electricity become useful >>here, because I will need to transmit on a broadband frequency in >>order to pinpoint my uncle's location and re-establish the >>cyber-link. Once I have the location and the link, you must transmit >>on a frequency of 5.5 MHz. No more because more would spike the >>energy matrix which would cut the link and no less because while it >>would be enough for me, it wouldn't be enough to re-establish he >>link on his end." > > Roland nods. #Activate HUD: MHz output monitor.# > #Understood,# his armor replies, and a holographic visor comes to >life around and over his eyes. He smiles a pirate's smile. "Ready >when you are." > >>Ana's left arm flows and shifts, and becomes a silver mini-Tesla >>coil. "Place your hand on the sphere, and we will begin." > > Roland gently places his hand on the globe at the end of the coil- >arm. "I feel like I'm being fresh," he half-quips, then readies the >power within him. When he's satisfied with his control over the >output, the Eternal provides her with precisely the energy requested. Ana grins at the half quip, and then nods. #Reconfigure communication system and transmit on a wideband ratio. Seek signal flagged "Uncle" and locate. # #Compliance.# replies the computer, and a large radio antenna rises up from behind her right ear. >From behind her eyes, a HUD emerges that is a current satellite map of India. There is a flash and the eye in space zooms into a current satellite image of the Imperial Palace. #Uncle has been found, updating information. # it scrolls under the picture of the palace. After a few moments the computer says, # Communication link established. Now rerouting power to the Broadcast Energy Transmitter.# After a moment, the antenna behind Ana's ear shifts form and the tip of the array becomes a large satellite dish, with a mini-coil in the center. The coil glows for a moment, then there is a crackle and thunder as the power supplied by the Eternal is broadcasted. It arcs into the air, and disappears in the distance. Meanwhile, at the Imperial Palace: A transformed Hindu (dressed as a member of the Human slave class of Tharkold) is busying himself with the task at hand. Even in an empire as vast and powerful as the one that Vader and his Dark Master lead, there still must be someone to clean the floors. Or in this case, several someone's since some of the scullery work also involves cleaning the trash compactor. TJ was an Untouchable, so he was used to the kind of treatment he received at the hands of the Tharkoldu, that being of contempt. Still, he accepted his lot in life and went about his tasks gleefully. One of the tasks set before him today was helping the others move a very large statue into the chambers of a new ally of the Demons, a being who was called Iceblade. TJ shuddered as he recalled stories that made the rounds of the new demon's temperament. At least 3 servants had to be hospitalized for frostbite when they accidentally came upon it while it was talking to this strange statue of a metallic man with glowing eyes. Shouting something about being interrupted, the poor servant girl who tried to apologize was frozen literally to the spot. When her minders tried to intervene on her behalf, they received the same treatment. "It was a very cold reception," said TJ to no one in particular. Meanwhile inside the carbonite, a HUD emerged from the blackness of his prison. His heart fluttered as the computer spoke to him. #Signal link established. Prepare for BET uplink and assimilation. # TJ heard a hum coming from inside the statue. The eyes of the statue began to glow brighter, and the arm of it began to glow slightly. Thinking he had touched something, he backed away from the statue. This was good, because at that moment there was a delicate sound of thunder, followed by an arc of lightning that emerged from a nearby window, striking the statue full in the chest. The force of the thunder was enough to deafen him momentarily, so he didn't hear the crackling sound the lighting made as it sank into the carbonite. Romanov felt a surge of energy that was very familiar to him, and he realized that this was the signature of the Eternal Roland. His hopes were raised further as a very familiar voice came over the comm. {This is Ana calling Dr. Energy, come in Dr. Energy,} said the Platinum Princess. {This is Doc Energy. Status is five by five, over.} {Uncle, it is very good to hear your voice again. I will re-establish cyberlink on my end. The energy you received was from Roland, which will help you maintain the link despite the interference.} Romanov smiled to himself at the news that his niece was alive and in good hands. {What is your location, my darling?} Ana frowned for a moment as she thought, [Now comes the hard part.] Her face became an impassable mask as she replied, {Sorry, uncle. That information hasn't been given to me yet. I can say that we appear to be heading to a location outside of Hyderabad, but more I cannot yet say due to security concerns.} Romanov detected the subtle nuances of her voice, and realized that she knew where she was going but didn't want to say because that might put him in harm's way. [That girl spent far too much time in the courts, but her lie is understandable given the situation.] He replied, {Understood, my dear. Sending all recorded information now.} #Computer, re-establish cyberlink on my end and transmit all data recordings from my capture. Include all tactical and logistical data for analysis." #Compliance.# said the computer as it prepared the files for compression and transmission. Back at the skiff, Ana nodded, "It is done, friend Roland. The cyberlink has been re-established and I have tactical information on the Palace and the surrounding area." There was a crackle of energy as she removed her mini-coil from the Eternals' hand and retracted the antenna. She shifted her arm back to it's normal configuration, and opened the PDA panel on her left arm. Taking the PDA out of the storage area in her forearm, she handed it to Roland. "All the data you may need is in that PDA." Bowing to Roland and Morgan, she said "If you' ll forgive me, I am rather drained at the moment. Let me know when we get there." Turning to head back to the transport, she looked over her shoulder "Oh, and friend Roland, that was a most electrifying experience," she quipped with a impish grin. > (OOC: Insert other introductions here. Tag Zia and Martin, as >mentioned above. Most people seem to be sticking to first names, >though Master Jinn and Princess Organa don't seem to be too worried >about their own.) Ana gracefully curtsies, "I am pleased to meet you all. I have heard of many tales regarding the adventures of Rogue Squadron and Leia Organa. I, also, can be discreet if need be. My name is Ana Romanov, and I am here on behalf of my uncle, Doctor Energy who has been unavoidably detained," she said with a somewhat grim expression. "I am afraid he has been taken by the Demons for what purpose we have yet to understand. For now, I will settle with waiting until plans are made." #Data on energy signature for Master Jinn and Jedi Skywalker complete.# said the computer. #There is large amounts of Energy from all Spheres, with slightly higher concentrations of Spirit, Time and Forces; presumably for the various skills the Jedi use such as Force Push, Pull, Throw, Jump and Speed. Based on data from the movies and books, powers of the Jedi are defensive in nature and not normally used for attack save extra-ordinary circumstances.# #Excellent. Prepare training simulation and regimen for myself.# said Ana as she turned to Leia. "Is there an area where I can get some exercise? I feel like my nodes are about to rust from disuse." OOC: Insert Leia's response here. She bows to Leia, and makes her way to the area indicated. It is a large clearing, used for storing starfighter parts and odds and ends. This observation is pointed by the large burnt-out hulk of a trash collector, it's outer parts covered in blaster burns and scratches by demon claws. Ana sits down and assumes a full lotus pose. Behind her closed eyes, a HUD appears. #Activate training drones, set difficulty to Adaptive.# #Compliance,# says the computer and 4 drones emerge from her back. Four lightsabers also float out of the storage area, landing in front of her seated form. There is a humming sound followed by a hiss of air as one of the drones falls out of formation and hovers above her. Opening her eyes, she leaps to her feet suddenly just as a sting blast strikes the ground where she sat. The first lightsaber leaps into her right hand hand and hums to life, glowing green. Closing her eyes, she lets the Time sensor do the rest of the work and she effortlessly blocks a number of blasts from the drone. A second drone drops out of formation and moves outside of firing range. Opening her left hand, the second lightsaber comes alive and glows light blue. The two drones rate of fire increases, and she blocks all shots though with more effort than before. The third and fourth drone drop out and hover just out of range. The last two lightsabers float up and both her arms transform into a four armed version. There is a click as each lightsaber locks into place in the grip of each three fingered hand, and she whirls around as each one lights up in pink, light blue, green and purple. The Platinum Princess shifts to metallic form and begins a dance that would make a sword dancer blush with pride and envy. Each blast is absorbed by the saber, though a few do make it through her defenses. There is a scorch mark where they hit, since the drones have adapted to the new form and turn up the volume. Suddenly, the Platinum Princess opens her eyes and leaps over to the top of the garbage truck as a quadruple blast hits the ground, leaving a divot in the ground. In a few swift motions, she sheaths all four sabers and transforms her arms to normal. With a reaching gesture of her left hand, she uses gravatonic energy to grab a nearby scrap of metal and sends it hurling into the first drone, hitting it hard enough to stop the program but not destroy the drone. The other three drones orbit above her, and arc energy between them before sending a blast of electrical energy toward her. Acting before thinking, she throws up her right hand and reflects the blast where it strikes harmlessly on a nearby cargo container. All three drones blast her with electrical energy and she grabs the energy, absorbing it and then sending a three pronged arc back to the drones, deactivating them. The skin of her metallic form sweats a mercurial liquid, which reverts to real sweat as she shifts back to her humanoid form. The sweat from her exercise causes the loose shirt to stick in places, but the cool air dries her quickly. Leaping down to the ground, she grabs a broken light pole and there is a crunch as the delicate hands grip the base of the fixture. With an effortless heave she smashes the pole into the front of the garbage truck, bending it around the cab. "This is what I will do to you when I find you, Volkov. And I *will* find you," she mutters as she dusts herself off. With a gesture, she levitates the drones up and her back panel opens. The drones float back in and disappear into a pocket of sub-space storage. She checks to make sure that the four sabers are secured to her belt, and walks back to the main camp to join the others. Ana Romanov and Doc Energy "Thunder is impressive, but it's lightning that does the work." - Mark Twain =========================== Subject: AAE9s: Valparaiso, Madrid, London, Rome, New York, Paris and... Hyderabad! [LONG!][Sorry!] On Thu, 26 May 2005 16:23:38 -0500 Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00012560 Presumably, at some point soon after their arrival, Roland, Morgan and the rest of the CAoLers in the SW-Cosm are given the 3-credit tour of the somewhat rag-tag Rebel Alliance's Base. When they, and their tour guides, all pass by the first empty ship's landing and/or parking bay, Bay #46, in fact, they all hear a familiar voice -- at least it's familiar to Roland, Morgan, and the rest of the CAoLers -- in this case Dhyrclhanc's, began to sing out. However, somewhat uncharacteristically, Dhyrclhanc was singing in a rather melancholy(sp?!) tone, and also his voice was being backed by a string section that was playing a mournful tune. The actual source of the singing was, however, not visible, of course... "Chase The Dog-Star, Over The Sea, Home Is Where My True Love Is Waiting For Me" "Rope The South Wind, Canvas The Stars and Harness The Moonlight So She May Safely Go Around The Cape Horn to Valparaiso" "Red The Port Light, Starboard The Green, How Will She Know The Devils I've Seen" "Cross The Sky, Star Of The Sea, Under The Moonlight, There She Can Safely Go, Around The Cape Horn to Valparaiso" "... And Every Road I Have Walked Would Take Me Down To The Sea With Every Broken Promise In My Sack" "... And Every Love Would Always Send The Ship Of My Heart Over The Rolling Sea" "If I Should Die..." "... And The Water Is My Grave, She'll Never Know If I'm Damned or I'm Saved" "See The Ghost Fly Over The Sea, Under The Moonlight, There She Can Safely Go... " "Around The Cape Horn to Valparaiso." See below Near the end of the song, and as the sound of the singing began to fade away, a YT-2400 with a dark navy-blue paint job slowly faded into existence in the bay. Nearby the previously opened hatch-way and/or gang-plank, stood three figures. For a series of pictures of a YT-2400 http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/dhyrclhanc_01/detail?.dir=783a&.dnm=b66a .jpg http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/dhyrclhanc_01/detail?.dir=783a&.dnm=27d7 .jpg http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/dhyrclhanc_01/detail?.dir=783a&.dnm=ac81 .jpg Please, would anyone let me know if they have any problems with any of these. Also, beware the possible line wraps! ;^) BTW & FWIW, Yes, the Corellian YT-2400 is the model of ship that is the freighter known as "the Outrider", which belongs to Dash Rendar, who, in turn, made his first appearance in the "Shadows of the Empire" Novel and multi-media project. The first was a large humanoid, whose ancestry looks like it owed more to polar bears than it did to primates. He, as it was obviously a male, was dressed in what was obviously the robes of a Jedi. Only these were worn over what looked like a suit of Stormtrooper armor, only without the helmet, gloves, and, presumably, boots, and it was also mostly silver in color, instead of mostly white. The figure was also wearing a pair of brown-colored, Terran medieval, hard-leather boots that had an obvious exaggerated turned down top cuff. Over top the robes and armor, the figure also wore a cream-colored, floor-length, beltless, trench-coat-like affair, with wide lapels, with a B-5 An'lashok broach pinned onto the right side. However, those who had their wits about them would notice that the broach was an uncanny duplicate of the reproduction the one that Dhyrclhanc wears; the two figures have three tears; two of water, one of blood. I'm sure that if I've gotten that wrong, at least re: the stuff regarding the an'lashok broach, someone here will cheerfully inform me of any error(s) I might've made. In his right hand, which rested on his right thigh, the figure held what looked like an unlit lightsabre. However, there were runes, sketched in gold-colored lettering down the weapon's hilt, which anyone who can read elvish would be able to read as "Candlebright". Not actually a lightsabre but a force-sword, GURPS' obvious copy of the lightsabre, albeit only with all the serial numbers filed off... http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/dhyrclhanc_01/detail?.dir=783a&.dnm=7e2e .jpg "Candlebright" is also an "Enchanted" force-sword that Dhyrclhanc made for himself utilizing his Nano-magitech's through-the-roof production capabilities. Part of this enchantment is that it houses the "essence" of a disceased Fire Elemental, of the same name -- hence the name of the weapon, who expired while it was in Dhyrclhanc's service. BTW, the binding was agreed to by the expiring Elemental. BTW, See my comments above. The other hand, which was also held half-hidden behind him, also held another unlit 'sabre. However, the latter of the two 'sabres was of the "double-bladed", staff-like variation that had been, and still is favored by certain followers of the Sith and/or Dark Siders, the other 'sabre, however appeared to be one of the more conventional type of 'sabres. As if anyone needs to see a picture of this... http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/dhyrclhanc_01/detail?.dir=783a&.dnm=5d6f .jpg Next to the "Bear-Man", stood the more easily recognizable form of Synthea, from Dhyrclhanc's "Cadre of Light". She was dressed in a somewhat eclectic collection of robes and scarves that was reminiscent of what one might expect a Terran Arabian Sheik to wear, plus a pair of dark sunglasses. She was also easily hefting a slightly modified Stormtrooper blaster rifle. Would someone like to supply me with the make and model name of those modified Sterling SMGs, please? Next to Synthea was the semi-hulking figure that those who are familiar with the world of DC Comics, especially the titles that take place in Gotham City and its nearby environs, as the black sheep of the Batman Family; IOW, Azrael. (beware of any possible line wraps) This latter figure slowly looked back and forth at his surroundings, as he seemed to be trying to take in the whole base with one glance and then one of his hands, inside a heavily armored glove, reached up and removed his armored costume's face-plate and hood, thus was revealed the face of a young man with long blond hair. His other gloved hand reached in back of him and retrieved a set of wire-framed coke-bottle glasses from an unseen sack or pouch at his back and then placed them on his face. The first hand then rose and began to massage his forehead and scalp. "Well, that's something that I'm going to have to get used to," he said,finally. "Obviously," called out a higher-pitched voice from inside the ship, "You've never taken a ride on one of the JLA's teleporter booths." >From out of the open hatch-way strode a pale-skinned humanoid, wearing a gold- and white-colored suit of technological looking armor. An ornate broadsword hands at his waist (beware of any possible line wraps) Those CAoLers who were present during the three-way clash between the CAoL, the JLA and the CSA and Sinestro, the rebel green-lantern, will recognize the figure as the Guardian Angel, Zauriel, who was hanging around with the JLA at the time. Although they will not recognize the strange bone-colored crown that he wore atop his helmet, that made him strangely resemble nothing less than a warrior-caste Minbarii. "_That_," continued the member of Heaven's Eagle Host, "was something that took some getting used to." Then he turned to Roland, "Hello, Roland, nice to see you again. A bit unfortunate, isn't it, that this isn't exactly under better conditions than the last time." P.S.: Sorry about the delay... ------ ("Valparaiso" Composed, Arranged, Written and Sung by Sting (aka Gordon M. Sumner), copywrited 1996) =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Mon, 30 May 2005 23:05:49 -0400 David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012561 >Roland X wrote: >>Grephnix shrugs blandly. "The Jedi 'corporate culture,' if you will, >>has been suffering from something akin to ossification for the past >>several generations, especially in the fields of research and >>development into nontraditional Force applications. As my prime self >>is a notorious innovator, it was inevitable that I would bring some, >>perhaps even a pronounced, degree of unconventionality to my >>vocation." > >"I would hardly call it a 'corporate culture,'" Qui-Gon objects >mildly. Grephnix makes a nonconfrontational gesture, neither yielding nor arguing the point. >"Though you _have_ commented on the...how did you put it? 'The >moribund nature of Jedi dogma.'" Anakin grins insouciantly, if >fondly, at his mentor. "Isn't that the reason for our entire >experiment, the 'new Jedi order' you want to form?" Qui-Gon coughs. Grephnix nods in Anakin's direction, in a 'thank you for making my point' way. >"Master Qui-Gon," Morgan says, "Have the Jedi not considered that the >decrease in numbers is their own fault? After all, if those who are >strong in the Force are removed from the genetic pool..." Grephnix pointedly says nothing, but just eyes the air above Qui-Gon's head, whistling an old Corellian folk tune. >Qui-Gon begins to speak. He stops. The Jedi master opens his mouth >again, then closes it. Ani tries not to chuckle, nearly succeeding. >After a pause, he strokes his beard and leans back. "You know, that >concept has nearly formed in my mind on more than one occasion, but >the concept of Jedi having children is so alien, that my >consciousness simply refused to entertain the notion." Padme grins. >"I'm glad it's not so foreign to Ani." Ani's humor vanishes, and >while he is not as adept in blushing as Roland, makes a game showing >of it. "PADME!" Senator Amidala laughs. "Oh come _on,_ Ani. It isn't >as if we're some great secret." /Thank the Source,/ Roland /Indeed,/ Grephnix concurs. And this time, there's no multiple layers to his comment. >replies. "I certainly hope you continue to be politic about it, >Padme," Qui-Gon says. "I've been a politician since I was 14," Padme >fires back a touch stiffly, "as Obi-Wan delights in reminding me >routinely." "Obi-Wan doesn't mean anything by it," Anakin replies, >just the slightest bit defensive. "Master Qui-Gon," Grephnix inquires with extreme delicacy. "Have you, by any chance, inquired into Ms *Shmi's* views on the matter? OOC: c'mon, I can't be the only one thinking it. I wonder it QG blushes? >"Is 'Ani' your apprentice?" Luke asks. "He's...glowing." "The Force >is strong in you, as well," Ani replies, slowly pulling his hood over >his head. ^It would appear,^ Grephnix comments to Roland and Morgan only, ^that our own temporally convoluted familial situation is not entirely unique.^ Again, his tone is a bit dry, but underscored more by honest experiential sympathy than sardony. OOC: Roger Prime would have just said, "Hey, look, it's not just us." =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Mon, 13 Jun 2005 16:54:03 -0700 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012562 >On Sat, 21 May 2005 13:06:30 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00012556 > > "So you finally made it to the party." A lazy voice comes from the >black and white vested woman standing under (quite a bit under) the >huge Wookie at her back. She is a short brunette, but her face isn't >familiar. She hooks thumbs under her wide belt, the holstered blaster >tied down to her thigh. > >"I thought you looked like rebels, but when you failed to show up for >your ride..." She shrugs, with a glance at Roger. "The jewels were >handy for equipment on the black market, though. M'name is Solo; Zian >Solo. Captain of the Milennium Unicorn over there. This is Chewie. >Unless Roger has already told you about me." She doesn't seem all >that pleased to see all the Jedi, alone among the rebels. Roland forces himself not to smile; He's not sure how much this...iteration? split? co-location? of Zia knows them, but chuckling at the sight would be poor form. Besides, we all know what happens when Wookies are unhappy with results. *G* "Ms. Solo. I'm Roland; this is Morgan," he replies, gesturing to his wife. "I'm sort of in charge of this traveling manifestation of chaos, though I use the term very loosely. And I'm sorry, but I have to ask...you're not related to a _Han_ Solo, are you?" Next... >On Mon, 23 May 2005 21:28:58 -0700 >Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00012558 > >But now, onto the Rod Sirling Memorial Rebel Base... LOL! ;^) >"I am Quiet Moon, a Kai Lord. I apologize if my usefulness has been >limited to date. I will try to do better in the future." The Kai >blinks slightly; the whole room is fairly screaming with Mindforce >potential. "If anyone here needs healing, I have some skills that >might prove useful." Roland keeps his face even. [Limited. Compared to, what, Starspawn? Ah well, it's not like angst is foreign to the CAoL.] "We can always use healers," Leia replies, gesturing towards one of the largest tents, "though fortunately our need at the moment is fairly light." Earlier... >On Thu, 26 May 2005 03:47:49 -0500 >Dr. Energy Said As CAoL Message # 00012559 >>Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012554 >Back at the skiff, Ana nodded, "It is done, friend Roland. The >cyberlink has been re-established and I have tactical information on >the Palace and the surrounding area." "Good," Roland replies evenly, nodding. "I'll want to plan a rescue op ASAP, but for now, we should rendezvous as planned. >Taking the PDA out of the storage area in her forearm, she handed it >to Roland. "All the data you may need is in that PDA." For once looking embarrassed without blushing, Roland accepts the PDA. "Ah, thanks." ^Why is it I can repair repulsor engines that hold up flying islands, redesign liquid orichalcum interface-armor, short-circuit Destroyer's Destroids and invent Kirby devices for all occasions...but I get lost with one of these fershlugginer Personal Digital Assistants?^ ^Less prior experience?^ Morgan replies helpfully. ^I love you,^ Roland sighs. >"Oh, and friend Roland, that was a most electrifying experience," she >quipped with a impish grin. "Definitely a Callahanian," Roland groans appreciatively (a unique Callahanian trick in itself 8^). Morgan bites back several incredibly inappropriate rejoinders. ;-) >"My name is Ana Romanov, and I am here on behalf of my uncle, Doctor >Energy who has been unavoidably detained," she said with a somewhat >grim expression. "I am afraid he has been taken by the Demons for >what purpose we have yet to understand. For now, I will settle with >waiting until plans are made." "Demons," Leia half-asks. "The blue-gray winged aliens, the 'Tharkoldu,'" Qui-Gon explains. "'Demon' is appropriate; most of them seem creatures born of the Dark Side." "They're usually called techno-demons," Ani grins, then hides in his hood again, smile vanishing. "Oh." Leia nods. "Our reports on them are sketchy, but I can see how they got that reputation." >as she turned to Leia. "Is there an area where I can get some >exercise? I feel like my nodes are about to rust from disuse." At that, Leia grins. "Just look for the round patch of earth with no grass on it, that's where the boys blow each other up." Luke doesn't pout. Quite. *VBG* >With an effortless heave she smashes the pole into the front of the >garbage truck, bending it around the cab. > >"This is what I will do to you when I find you, Volkov. And I *will* >find you," she mutters as she dusts herself off. With a gesture, >she levitates the drones up and her back panel opens. The drones >float back in and disappear into a pocket of sub-space storage. She >checks to make sure that the four sabers are secured to her belt, and >walks back to the main camp to join the others. She doesn't get far before she sees Ani appear almost magically out of a shadow. "That's impressive," he says. "I'd love to see Grievous' face if he ever runs into you." (insert comment here) Ani considers the Platinum Princess for another moment. "You want to save your uncle. I understand that. But you're drawing on the Force now, and the Dark Side...doesn't play fair. As my Master would say, 'be mindful of your emotions.' I think it's fair to say I know the price of underestimating it better than most." Moving right along... >On Thu, 26 May 2005 16:23:38 -0500 >Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00012560 > >Presumably, at some point soon after their arrival, Roland, Morgan >and the rest of the CAoLers in the SW-Cosm are given the 3-credit >tour of the somewhat rag-tag Rebel Alliance's Base. > >When they, and their tour guides, all pass by the first empty ship's >landing and/or parking bay, Bay #46, OOC: And here I expected it to be #42. ;^) >The first was a large humanoid, whose ancestry looks like it owed >more to polar bears than it did to primates. He, as it was obviously >a male, was dressed in what was obviously the robes of a Jedi. Only >these were worn over what looked like a suit of Stormtrooper armor, >only without the helmet, gloves, and, presumably, boots, and it was >also mostly silver in color, instead of mostly white. The figure was >also wearing a pair of brown-colored, Terran medieval, hard-leather >boots that had an obvious exaggerated turned down top cuff. Over top >the robes and armor, the figure also wore a cream-colored, >floor-length, beltless, trench-coat-like affair, with wide lapels, >with a B-5 An'lashok broach pinned onto the right side. > >However, those who had their wits about them would notice that the >broach was an uncanny duplicate of the reproduction the one that >Dhyrclhanc wears; the two figures have three tears; two of water, one >of blood. Roland looks closely at the figure, leaning forward slightly and eyes narrowing faintly. "Dhyrclhanc?" he asks brilliantly. ^I can't believe I've actually learned to _pronounce_ that.^ >Those CAoLers who were present during the three-way clash between the >CAoL, the JLA and the CSA and Sinestro, the rebel green-lantern, will >recognize the figure as the Guardian Angel, Zauriel, who was hanging >around with the JLA at the time. Although they will not recognize the >strange bone-colored crown that he wore atop his helmet, that made >him strangely resemble nothing less than a warrior-caste Minbarii. > >"_That_," continued the member of Heaven's Eagle Host, "was something >that took some getting used to." "Angels from A to Z," Roland can't help quipping. A brief gesture, and a peanut bounces off the Champion's head. Roland half-smiles, half-grimaces at Morgan, who's looking remarkably innocent. >Then he turned to Roland, "Hello, Roland, nice to see you again. A >bit unfortunate, isn't it, that this isn't exactly under better >conditions than the last time." "Ain't it always the way," the former Freelance Immortal replies. "At least it's a different Dark Side this time." Roland sighs as another peanut lands in his hair. It flings itself out again, a Kowakian monkey-lizard (OOC: the small thing with the annoying laugh from Jabba's 'court') cackling as it snatches the foodstuff out of the air and pops it into its mouth in one smooth motion. "We've got a rescue, a reality storm, and a raid on the Emperor's palace on tap at the moment, though I'm betting on the Starspawn to contain the reality backlash when we kick Palpatine's Darth up his Sith." Finally... >On Mon, 30 May 2005 23:05:49 -0400 >David McMillan Said As CAoL Message # 00012561 > >Roland X wrote: >>replies. "I certainly hope you continue to be politic about it, >>Padme," Qui-Gon says. >> "I've been a politician since I was 14," Padme fires back a touch >>stiffly, "as Obi-Wan delights in reminding me routinely." >> "Obi-Wan doesn't mean anything by it," Anakin replies, just the >>slightest bit defensive. > > "Master Qui-Gon," Grephnix inquires with extreme delicacy. "Have >you, by any chance, inquired into Ms *Shmi's* views on the matter? "We...have not discussed it," Qui-Gon admits. "However, as we are betrothed, I imagine the subject will come up," he adds dryly. >> "Is 'Ani' your apprentice?" Luke asks. "He's...glowing." >> "The Force is strong in you, as well," Ani replies, slowly >>pulling his hood over his head. > > ^It would appear,^ Grephnix comments to Roland and Morgan only, >^that our own temporally convoluted familial situation is not >entirely unique.^ Again, his tone is a bit dry, but underscored more >by honest experiential sympathy than sardony. ^Indeed,^ Roland replies. ^Though you sound like you swallowed Rogias; my ability to state that means, I think, that we still beat out the Skywalkers on sheer weirdness.^ Elsewhere. "H-here." The (former) rebel shudders. "The base is huh-here." "Excellent," Lord Vader intones. "Colonel, begin advancing your troops. Send the scouts ahead to ensure no rebels spot our main force. They _should_ mistake them for one of our usual sweeps." "Yes, my lord," the colonel replies, saluting crisply and turning on his heel. "My -- my sister," the woman half-asks hesitantly. "You said you'd let her go." "Ah," Vader replies, nodding. "Your sister. Unfortunately, what I _said_ was that you would be reunited, and I'm afraid I can't have you warning your rebel friends. Take her away." "Where IS she?!" the new captive roars. "In better condition than your rebel scum friends are about to be," the stormtrooper pushing her forward barks. "Now move!" [Anakin Skywalker, is it?] Vader ponders, looking into the sky. [At last, I will cleanse myself of the final taint of my former self. I will reverse the Jedi test of the Mirror, confronting and destroying my Light Side counterpart.] His helmet droops as his thoughts wend inevitably forward. [But then...there is the woman.] Vader's head bows, as if its weight were growing impossible to lift. [There is...Padme.] =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Mon, 13 Jun 2005 22:47:16 -0700 Patrick O'Shea Said As CAoL Message # 00012563 >On Mon, 13 Jun 2005 16:54:03 -0700 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012562 OOC: reading you live, 5 x 5 :-). But anyway...I'm pretty good with the first bit, but feel free to retcon the other sections if you wish. This has been dying to get out of me, and all... > Roland keeps his face even. [Limited. Compared to, what, >Starspawn? Ah well, it's not like angst is foreign to the CAoL.] > "We can always use healers," Leia replies, gesturing towards one >of the largest tents, "though fortunately our need at the moment is >fairly light." One of the base personnel glances at Quiet Moon, and walks over. "Forgive me. Devon Raymorn. I was an assistiant to the chief medical officer here until we lost him in a raid last week. We did manage to get some help in, but none of us are trained to handle the really serious medical emergencies. As Princess Leia just said, there's nothing serious yet, but we did just use up the last of our bacta." "What?" the Princess scroans (greams? The debate continues...). "What about that raid from last month?" Devon shakes his head. "Ambori was spoiled. Must have been a random plant from the Empire. Or vintage spiked alazhi. They're getting careful with their runs." "Look, I've already cc'd the strike teams in the surrounding areas; we tore the packing crate apart, and found the marking the Empire uses to mark the bogus bacta. We'll be more careful next time. In the interim, we do have a few cases, if you'd like to have a look?" -One hour later. Even bad bacta can reduce wounds, though the effects are far more erratic. This batch wasn't as antiseptic as the normal stuff would be. "As I said, we lost our chief medic. And if we'd had a bit less of our original store..." Quiet Moon nods. He was familiar with such scenes, though the medical treatments on his homeworld were...less advanced. Where mages failed...liquid spirits and a bone saw tended to prevail. "We should be able to fit Grayven with a mechanical limb now, thanks to your efforts; that infection was resisting everything I had." "Limbdeath." Quiet Moon explains. "I've seen it before, it came up occassionally on my homeworld. Fortunately it is not too contagious. Normally it spreads from decomposing matter." (OOC: I'll spare everyone the CSI graphic explanation) "Apt name. And no shortage of that around these parts. The Empire isn't too worried about hazmat training. So, what will you do now?" "It depends on what the rest of the group I came with wants to do. I'm a bit new to all this." "Finding your way still? Well, best of luck. Force be with you." "Kai protect you." the Kai replies almost automatically, getting up. --Elsewhere The stormtrooper glared at the boy. "I said I wanted your identification papers." The boy didn't seem phased, despite the fact that the trooper had his blaster rifle aimed at his heart. He was dressed oddly; old fashioned trousers held up by equally old suspenders crossing over a well worn red shirt. At his belt seemed to be two swords. Actual swords, not those laser swords Jedi were said to use. The trooper was a bit put off, but wasn't worried. "Give me your name, and I'll give you mine." the boy replied with a cocky smirk. "There is no need for that." a female voice interjects. The trooper whirls around, but can't seem to raise his weapon to the woman walking slowly towards him. "He's merely lost and confused." "Merely lost and confused." the trooper repeats. "There's no need for that rifle." The weapon drops to the trooper's side. "You should take a break. Go find your relief." He trots off. After a minute, the woman turns to the boy. "I warned you about this." "I know, I know. But after what happened to the last town...after everything...can you blame me for being angry?" "I know. But your anger will weaken you, you've seen that. Vengeance is not the way of the Jedi." Silently, Jedi Knight Barriss Offee wondered if her own teacher, Master Luminara ever had days like this. "Now come on, Lloyd. We still have a ways to go." "*Sigh*. Yes Master Offee." "That's Knight, Lloyd." "But you're my teacher now, so that also makes you my master, right?" Groan. "Lloyd." "Shutting up." "Good then." Somewhere, Master Luminara was laughing. --And... > [Anakin Skywalker, is it?] Vader ponders, looking into the sky. >[At last, I will cleanse myself of the final taint of my former self. >I will reverse the Jedi test of the Mirror, confronting and >destroying my Light Side counterpart.] His helmet droops as his >thoughts wend inevitably forward. [But then...there is the woman.] >Vader's head bows, as if its weight were growing impossible to lift. >[There is...Padme.] --Outside the Imperial Base Quickly, before even Vader's enhanced senses can pick it up, Asajj Ventress withdraws her psychic probe. Everyone thought her dead, killed at the hands of the so-called 'chosen one'. Fine. She had had the pleasure of watching the fool fall himself, clutched by the darkness of his own misery and rage. "The Force has smiled on me. I get to revenge myself...twice. Beware, Anakin Skywalker." As she spoke, she pulled out a pair of long black tubes. Holding them, she sent a silent mental command, a precise reverberation in the Force that no one else could detect or duplicate. Microseconds later, energy beams, darker than the deepest nights, sprang from the tubes. The blades crossed just under her eyes, which faced straght ahead. "And all those between me and them." The only question that remained to her was...Vader, or the brightsider? =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Tue, 14 Jun 2005 17:51:21 -0700 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00012565 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012562 >"Ain't it always the way," the former Freelance Immortal replies. "At >least it's a different Dark Side this time." Roland sighs as another >peanut lands in his hair. It flings itself out again, a Kowakian >monkey-lizard (OOC: the small thing with the annoying laugh from >Jabba's 'court') cackling as it snatches the foodstuff out of the air >and pops it into its mouth in one smooth motion. "We've got a rescue, >a reality storm, and a raid on the Emperor's palace on tap at the >moment, though I'm betting on the Starspawn to contain the reality >backlash when we kick Palpatine's Darth up his Sith." /*"We are standing by, friend Roland."*/ Hydra's voice announces. /*"Aurora and Oracle will guide my 'hand', and The Stardragon Itself stands by to reinforce me should my resources prove inadequate."*/ =========================== Subject: Re: AAE9s: The Rebels' Hidden Base On Wed, 15 Jun 2005 00:02:50 -0700 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012566 I know I have more pressing things to get to, but I've been having a serious case of dry-muse and hope this will ease me back in. >On Mon, 13 Jun 2005 16:54:03 -0700 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00012562 > > [Anakin Skywalker, is it?] Vader ponders, looking into the sky. >[At last, I will cleanse myself of the final taint of my former self. >I will reverse the Jedi test of the Mirror, confronting and >destroying my Light Side counterpart.] His helmet droops as his >thoughts wend inevitably forward. [But then...there is the woman.] >Vader's head bows, as if its weight were growing impossible to lift. >[There is...Padme.] The "base." Twin blue lightsabers dance and flash. One young man in dark robes circles a similar, slightly younger man in light ones, who backs away in an counter-circle. The younger man is the one smiling, however. The light figure spins and slashes, the older parrying and side-stepping. "How's that?" Luke asks, panting yet still grinning. "Good, good," Anakin replies, nodding solemnly. "You're still overextending on the pivot, though." Luke's smile slips. "I'm working on that." "I know," Anakin says, a smile of his own beginning to form. "I had the same problem. 'You're too eager,' Qui-Gon says. 'Be at peace,' Qui-Gon says. How do you 'be at peace' when someone's trying to blow your head off?" Luke chuckles, and while Ani forces his face to relax, inwardly his smile grows. He douses his lightsaber. "Still, that *is* what you have to do. Let go. Start with acting on your feelings and instincts, but as you advance, *become* them." Luke gives Anakin a dubious look. "How do you 'become' your instincts? I mean, Ben told me some of this, but..." Anakin winces at the name. "The Force is alive, after a fashion, but part of that life is _your_ life. As you become one with the Force, you become more aware of yourself. The more you teach your consciousness to surrender to what you feel, the more you learn to control what you feel consciously." "That sounds like a paradox." Luke scowls. "It is, at first," Anakin admits, "but the more you flow with the Force, the more you'll understand..." he sighs. "Master Yoda is right. Doing is better than talking." The lightsaber springs to life again. "Attack me." Luke boggles. "What? You just turned on your lightsaber. You don't look ready to fight a stormtrooper, let alone..." Anakin locks eyes with Luke. "Let alone what? An apprentice who barely knows which end of a lightsaber to hold?" Luke's eyes widen, and he bares his teeth slightly. "I'll show you where the end of a lightsaber goes..." With that, he springs. To the end of his days, Luke will never quite understand what happened. One second, he was charging with blinding speed at a casual figure with his arms hanging at his sides, the next, Luke was sprawling out one way and his lightsaber was flying in the other. At its apex, Luke's saber stops, extinguishes, and floats into Anakin's hand. "Never let your enemy distract you. The Sith will trick you into anger if they can, believe me." Anakin tosses him the inert weapon. "Tell me. What were you feeling in that moment?" Luke catches the saber, staring in shock at Ani for a moment. "Um...outrage, I suppose. Frustration. I wanted to show you what I could do." Anakin nods. "And in all that other feeling, how much of you was feeling the living Force?" [Oh,] Luke realized, fidgeting with the saber hilt and grinning ruefully. "Uh, none, I guess." Ani nods again. "Good. Now. Let's try this again, except first, I want you to remember what Obi-Wan taught you about letting go and feeling the Force. Close your eyes. Relax." Luke obeys. "Let the Force flow through you, connecting you to the larger world, bringing you in tune with the universe around you..." he trails off, slowly, quietly circling Luke as the teen breathes calmly. With a single, swift stroke, Ani slashes his lightsaber towards Luke's neck. Before either of them realizes what is happening, Luke has parried the assault with a behind-the-back arm twist, the twin to Ani's saber lit in mid-motion. "GAH!" Luke gasps when he realizes what's happened, stumbling away. Ani can't help it. He laughs. "Okay, you're going to need to work on _maintaining_ your concentration. Still, that was very good." "You almost KILLED me! How is that good?" Luke gasps. "Luke, I've been trained in the Jedi temple. That saber would never have touched your neck. Besides, you've been swinging at me with full power." Ani grins wryly as Luke swallows. "Good point," Luke admits. They chuckle in unison. "Okay, that's it," Wedge blurts from the edge of their circle. "You two are creeping me out. I swear, you could be brothers or something." Luke shrugs, smiling. "Well, he probably trained with my father, since they were both taught by Obi-Wan." Ani immediately deactivates his saber and tucks it away, withdrawing into the hood again. [I should have known it was too good to last,] he thinks, resigned. [I'd better not let him get a good look at my saber, either.] "If you'll excuse me, I'm going to check on Padme." He withdraws with a brief bow. "Ooo," Wedge grunts. "What's with him?" "What do you think?" Luke replies, sitting heavily on the ground next to his friend. "If _you_ found out you were Darth Vader and killed the father of the guy you're training, how would you feel?" "Good point," Wedge admits. ===========================