Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 7a Chapter 5 Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 20:42:11 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009940 >On Mon, 09 Apr 2001 19:14:13 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009930 > > Eric nods. "For those with the power to bend reality itself, as >opposed to those with less flexible methods, yes, you are in essence >correct." Zia just shakes her head slightly, with an odd grin. > Eric frowns, then concentrates. He utters a single word in Chinese >(which I don't know, since I loaned out my copy of Demon Hunter X... >bad gamer, no biscuit) and his hand is surrounded by a faint nimbus >of flame. If Rob can still sense chi, he feels Eric burn the chi, >then regenerate it. (Imagine if a Garou, or Wolverine, had to slice >himself open to work an effect. It heals quickly, but it's still >ripping off a piece of yourself. He doesn't flinch.) "Hrm. Mine >works. Wonder why." Eric may not flinch. Zia does however. Sometimes, it really sucks to be empathic around this group. ;) She does everything she can (and that's considerable) in an 'acting methods' sort of manner to cover her reaction, though. Especially from Eric's notice. > Eric _laughs,_ an almost normal human laugh. "My friend Rob >Nishikawa, do you suppose that we all have the same master, and that >he just co-locates to every martial arts school in creation?" Zia takes a sudden and special interest in cleaning that scuffle mark on the toe of one her black boots off. She is half-smiling at the sound of Eric laughing with any degree of ease, but you'd have to be a keen observer to have noted the cause and effect this time. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 20:50:56 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009941 >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 07:44:32 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009933 > >By the time Rob gets back with a medium-sized bag, Zia is looking >better, but he still takes the time to drop a Generic Anti-Nausea >Pill in her hand, along with a glass of water. She blinks, impressed beyond the 'norm' at someone else 'taking care of her', to a degree almost uncomfortable. But she masters those Amber-bred instincts for paranoia, and carefully puts such notions away. Then she summons what degree of smile she can. "Rob, that was well-thought. Thank you. Next time, I'll try to think of this BEFORE walking through a translocation." Ziactrice notable gets the list of active ingredients, studies them carefully as she sips the water, but she is still holding the pill. "Ah. These should all be quite ... safe. No psycho-active tranqs." She takes it and drinks the rest of the water with some degree of thirst. >/Maybe I missed it in the briefing, but where is the Seven residence? >If it's not touristy enough, I could set up a photo shoot somewhere >near there for daytime surveillance. And unless I misunderstand the >problem, protecting the young Michael Seven is Priority 1./ > >/Priority 2 being the location of Rassilon, plans to come later./ > >/And would somebody please correct me if I'm wrong?/ /I believe not blowing our cover to badly to the Sevens is also somewhat necessary, to avoid a Gordian knot of paradoxial complications. Which likely will be my main effectiveness here. I can, if I'm aware soon enough, warp reality a bit to ... well, cheat a bit, and make sure anything too outre becomes something NOT so outre. I'm going to be on the lookout for any opportunity to do so, at least. This Shadow is not nearly as easy to influence, since I haven't been here nearly long enough, but I'll certainly do what I may./ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 21:04:08 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009942 >Sil Said As CAoL Message # 00009934 > >>On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 07:44:32 -0700 (PDT) >>Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009933 >> >>"No, I don't think we have," Rob replies, offering to shake her >>hand. "And I hope you'll excuse me, but the other model appears to >>be feeling ill, I'm still making arrangements for the clothing," Rob >>pauses to pull a silver tube from his bag and hand it to Moonstone, >>"you might try this lipstick, I don't know where we're going to >>shoot, and thankgodthereisnodeadline." > > "Forty-seven hours, thirty-two minutes, twenty-seven seconds," Sil >reports in a computer-like monotone as she arrives. Then she giggles. Rob, fortunately, is not drinking anything at this point. Otherwise, he would have performed a textbook 'spit take.' > "Sorry. I've sort of been looking for a chance to use the >HIT-Mark's 'I'm gonna git you sucka' voice." She grows serious. "But >there really _is_ a deadline, and we'd better be in place by then. >Eric?" She holds out a hand. Eric blinks at this, then the light goes >off and he tosses her one of his many guns. It vanishes into her >light jacket, they repeat the process, and she turns her attention to >the Shadow-sick Amberite. [Right. There is a deadline, Zia's in good hands - if a little on the (s)mothery side, which means that I can turn my attention to...] >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009935 > > Moonstone steps over to the mirror, opening the tube as she >goes, then applies the lipstick, blotting with a hotel tissue. She >turns back to Rob, obviously looking for his impression of the color >in relation to her almost albinstic complextion, only slightly >modified by the very light gold dye in her hair. [...the fair face of Moonstone, who does look good in that shade of lipstick.] "I like it. Red enough to draw attention, without contrasting too heavily." Rob pulls out a few other cosmetics, including a Box of Many Colors, then puts most of it back. "My suggestion is the light pink nail polish, and the light blue from here for eyeshadow. But use your own judgement - if your clothing is any indicator, you have a solid color sense." > Sil chuckles. /See what happens when you volunteer? Roland >suckered himself into the leadership slot, and he's been stuck there >ever since./ She looks over Rob appraisingly. /On the other hand, you >look like a good candidate for his replacement./ [YEEP!] > Sil chuckles. /You're doing _fine,_ Rob./ /Thank you. Honest compliments are appreciated./ [Ghidrah's claws. Leadership? Of the Army of Light? Thank goodness that there are at least two people in front of me.] [Although one of them is currently at risk of being paradoxed out of existence...back to work, slacker. I can get angsty on my own time.] ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 21:15:52 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009943 >Martin and/or Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00009937 > >>On Tue, 10 Apr 2K1 "Sil" Said: >> >> Sil chuckles. /See what happens when you volunteer? Roland >>suckered himself into the leadership slot, and he's been stuck there >>ever since./ She looks over Rob appraisingly. /On the other hand, >>you look like a good candidate for his replacement./ > >/And what am I, Silver?/ interjects the normally draconic Lensman, >doing a dead-on impersonation of Mel Brooks over the lens-link /A >loaf of bread?/ /No, you're one of the people ahead of me in line. I hope./ >/Now all we can hope is that this Khan Noonian Singh/Rassilion hybrid >entity doesn't share the same bio-regenerative characteristics that a >normal Gallifreyan Time lord has. Our saving grace seems to be that >he has no access to any Gallifreyan Tech./ /Hybrid? What hybrid? And did he get exposed to the whatchamacallit that gives Gallifreyans the ability to regenerate?/ [OOC:] Whatchamacallit = Eye of Harmony, IIRC. "So why don't I know that?" First, because I don't remember for certain. Second, because your name is Rob Nishikawa, not Dr. Omniscient. "Won't let me know German, doesn't let me in on the names of important things...can I get a new writer?" Sorry, kiddo. You're stuck with me. [/OOC] >... and Dhyrclhanc reveals the info that he, Rio and Morgan found >about the Bio-Valley Complex, including the early appearance of their >new (would-be) Nemesis Du Jour to the rest of the group. /Oh. _That_ hybrid. Well, at least we know who to watch for. Looks just like the guy from that car commercial./ ================================= Subject: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 00:56:11 -0400 Caprice/Legion Said As CAoL Message # 00009944 The new arrivals at the Essex residence walk into a discussion (well it's too polite to be an arguement). "... don't love me. You just think you do." Legion is sitting at a table which contains carefully clipped news paper articles, a map of the Sevens neighborhood, another map of the area where the destroyed lab is. Essex sighs, with the look of any man confronted with female logic, "If I feel it, how can you say its not real? Never mind... we have company." The pair rise, helping people through the Xwindow, giving them a quick rundown of the newspapers, local info, and the twinge that Legion felt some time ago. In the middle of this >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 22:34:24 -0500 >Martin and/or Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00009937 > >... and Dhyrclhanc reveals the info that he, Rio and Morgan found >about the Bio-Valley Complex, including the early appearence of their >new (would-be) Nemesis Du Jour to the rest of the group. Leion sighs, and relays through to Essex. "Okay... ideas, people? My first is to put immediate surveillance on the building where the Seven's are staying. Nathaniel and I are willing to hold down the fort, as it were." Essex gives Legion a look that clearly reads as an intent to finish their talk as soon as the two of them are alone. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 22:35:00 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009945 >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 20:50:56 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009941 > >Ziactrice notable gets the list of active ingredients, studies them >carefully as she sips the water, but she is still holding the pill. >"Ah. These should all be quite ... safe. No psycho-active tranqs." >She takes it and drinks the rest of the water with some degree of >thirst. &Zia, Dear, next time use the Link's control functions to kill the nausea...& She feels more than hears a faint chuckle. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 02:26:48 -0400 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009946 >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 16:01:22 -0700 >Rio Said As CAoL Message # 00009936 > >OOC: I'm sure the rote Rio knows for getting a phone call, letter or >e-mail to go through even if you don't know the address/number will >work for finding where they live :-). They were staying at a hotel, >right? OOC: Renting an apartment. They've been there for the last nine months. ================================= Subject: Re:AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 02:45:29 -0400 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009947 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 00:56:11 -0400 >Caprice/Legion Said As CAoL Message # 00009944 > >Essex sighs, with the look of any man confronted with female logic, >"If I feel it, how can you say its not real? Never mind... we have >company." The pair rise, helping people through the Xwindow, giving >them a quick rundown of the newspapers, local info, and the twinge >that Legion felt some time ago. In the middle of this > >>On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 22:34:24 -0500 >>Martin and/or Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00009937 >> >>... and Dhyrclhanc reveals the info that he, Rio and Morgan found >>about the Bio-Valley Complex, including the early appearence of >>their new (would-be) Nemesis Du Jour to the rest of the group. Including in that package, should DC want to do it immediately, a look around the Biovalley complex in question. Which is essentially, a burned out building on a sizable chunk of empty land. Notable features including several series of canisters, all broken, filing cabinets rifled through, a great deal of high-tech medical equipment for the era, some of it even more high-tech than the era, but considering the project and the universe, that would be a given, all damaged beyond repair, with a special emphasis on anything post-current. In fact, it looks like someone paid special attention to burning any physical evidence of a scientific nature. Fires in the wastepaper baskets would lead one to also think that stretched to scientific documents involving the technique of what had been done here as well. This is all, of course, taking into account the police tape and likely confiscation of just about anything else that would help lead to a conviction. All the tanks have names, by the way, except for one, the name there having been violently ripped off. That tank still holds liquid, a tiny amount, most was lost in the fire and due to evaporation. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 00:00:42 -0700 (PDT) The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00009948 >On Sat, 07 Apr 2001 00:05:16 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009911 > >>On Fri, 6 Apr 2001 00:38:35 -0700 (PDT) >>The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00009900 >> >> As he passed, he was the only one who heard the growl that >>rumbled deep in the big demon's chest. Her eyes held only a tinge of >>warning, however. > > Eric looks back at her in confusion for a moment, but more at ease >than when Mandy had complimented him. Demons threatening him is part >of his day job. 8^) > ^Problem?^ (OOC: Sent via lens link--he does okay with it when he >concentrates) ^Mandy is not interested.^ Raver eyes him carefully. The unspoken 'Not if I have anything to do with it,' is clear. If Raver had been human, Eric would've seen a clear 'So there.' expression. (OOC: Hello, Big Sis. *grin* She's just lucky Mandy isn't hearing this.) ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 00:13:53 -0700 (PDT) The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00009949 >On Thu, 05 Apr 2001 22:34:34 -0700 >Rio Said As CAoL Message # 00009897 > >Rio watches Zia come through. "Rob, I think you're getting a little >talent-heavy, and frankly the 'college student on vacation' thing >sounds like more fun that working, even if the work _is_ modeling." >The Ecstatic smiles. "You've still got Moon Stone and Zia. Hey, >Mandy, how do you feel about _two_ college girls seeing the Rhine >Valley, and if you don't mind can I borrow that backpack to change my >credentials?" While Rio was talking to Rob, Mandy slipped through the X-Window and looked around curiously. [Raver?] [I hear you.] [Okay. So...] She took a breath. [We shall see, when the window closes.] Agreement came over the bond. Mandy tugged a bit nervously on one of Aurora's translator modules, now masquerading as a leather and bead choker around her throat. When Rio asked the question, Mandy grinned. "Sure." She turned around, giving the Ecstatic access to her backpack. "Have away at it." After a moment, she peered over her shoulder. "Before anything happens, I should tell you that if you need to talk to me over the Link, look for Raver. She's relaying things to me. Because, uh, I -- kind of have issues with telepaths in my head. Fair warning." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 00:23:56 -0700 (PDT) The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00009950 >On Fri, 6 Apr 2001 08:05:11 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009903 > >"I can work with that, although I'd like your help anyway. Zia's hair >is fine, but it isn't period. I can fix that, but I'll still need >somebody to pick up clothing. Mm...could I convince _both_ of you to >do a little power shopping before you go 'college student?'" Looking back from where she had been talking to Rio, Mandy perked up at the concept of shopping. "Just you leave it to me. Hand over the plastic, m'boy, and Bob's your uncle." If she gets any odd looks, she'll blush. "Uh...I hung out with British friends too much?" On the other side of the X-Window, Raver sighed. "Nishikawa, you had best hope you have a high credit limit. Or that someone hacks into your credit records." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 08:02:34 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009951 >The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00009950 > > Looking back from where she had been talking to Rio, Mandy >perked up at the concept of shopping. "Just you leave it to me. Hand >over the plastic, m'boy, and Bob's your uncle." OOC: Gee, that was easy to set up... :) > On the other side of the X-Window, Raver sighed. "Nishikawa, you >had best hope you have a high credit limit. Or that someone hacks >into your credit records." "Umm...I don't have a credit card. But there's a coin exchange two streets down and three over," Rob points out the directions, "and I have these." He shakes ten coins from a bag that sits where a shoulder holster would be, before letting it jingle back into place against its twin. "You'll need a large wallet and a bodyguard if you change all of these," Rob says as he drops the one-ounce Krugerrands into Mandy's hand. OOC: That's a little over $2,000 US under current exchange rates. That may not be enough, but here's hoping. Those bags aren't infinitely deep, after all. "Unless I leave a message with your answering service, bring the clothes back here." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 08:26:15 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009952 >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009941 > >Ziactrice notable gets the list of active ingredients, studies them >carefully as she sips the water, but she is still holding the pill. >"Ah. These should all be quite ... safe. No psycho-active tranqs." >She takes it and drinks the rest of the water with some degree of >thirst. [Psycho-actives? Why would...oh. Right.] Rob's face briefly shows panic at the thought of a person who can change reality by force of will suffering from hallucinations. >/I believe not blowing our cover to badly to the Sevens is also >somewhat necessary, to avoid a Gordian knot of paradoxial >complications. Which likely will be my main effectiveness here. I >can, if I'm aware soon enough, warp reality a bit to ... well, cheat >a bit, and make sure anything too outre becomes something NOT so >outre. I'm going to be on the lookout for any opportunity to do so, >at least. This Shadow is not nearly as easy to influence, since I >haven't been here nearly long enough, but I'll certainly do what I >may./ Rob takes a look at Ziactrice, and decides that she looks a little better. Digging a brush and hairspray from the bag, he steps up to his next challenge. "Zia? Your hair is lovely, but...well, it isn't period." He then says, in an over-the-top French accent, "Zo, eef zee good Dame weel permit, I would rectify that problem." The lens-link shows a brief image of Rob's face on a can with the Hormel logo. >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009938 > >"Get a good sewing kit together, for me, whilst you're shopping, if >you will, please?" She adds once she becomes sure her stomach won't >misbehave too badly. Rob takes a moment to scribble a list of things down, then tosses the list to Mandy. "You'll have it." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 08:32:25 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00009953 Small nitpick: >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 22:34:24 -0500 >Martin and/or Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00009937 > >... and Dhyrclhanc reveals the info that he, Rio and Morgan found >about the Bio-Valley Complex, including the early appearence of their >new (would-be) Nemesis Du Jour to the rest of the group. OOC: Roland, Morgan and Rio said/showed everything on the open link, and aloud in their relative locations, so everyone should have already seen/heard it. The only thing DC would have needed ot add was what _he_ found out. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 08:33:44 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009954 >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 22:35:00 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009945 >>On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 20:50:56 -0700 (PDT) >>Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009941 >&Zia, Dear, next time use the Link's control functions to kill the >nausea...& > >She feels more than hears a faint chuckle. Ziactrice's head startles enough that Eric and anyone else still looking at her can notice as her eyebrow rises. She gives a singularly old-fashioned look to the point in space here where the X-window was, at Nemo (even if she cannot see through this side). &Will you be able to maintain this, Nemo? I thought you might need to drop communications completely, even this link, given the complication of the this-Now and your-Now impasse?& &What an odd idea, Nemo.& A vague unease stirs, but she stills it again after a moment's thought straightens out whatever concern caused that reaction. &But it might well work, at that. I hadn't thought its control logic would equilibrate in a boomerang-like fashion; somehow my impression was more a pair of one-way transmitter/receiver types.& The petite brunette lady tilts her head down to the sapphire ring she wears on the first finger of her right hand, and she glances at it for a second or three. [I'll have to try that next time; it seems between the rest and the tranq this time, to have faded already.] "Well." In a tone of dismissing her own possible weakness as much as possible, Zia says, "What can I do to help out, Rob? Scout possible locations for light? I can manage a 30 millimeter with a F-stop. Enough to take light readings and find some spots to work at." She grins impudently, "And I seem to have a talent for talking the local owners into allowing the use of the spots. I would want either you or Eric, or both to go along, however. I choose to leave my swords with Nemo, and carrying a gun would be quite out of character." "Not to mention my best defenses have nothing to do with any visible weaponry." She adds, in a tone of reassurance that Rob is quite sure is directed as much at Eric as himself. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 10:02:08 -0700 Rio Said As CAoL Message # 00009955 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 00:13:53 -0700 (PDT) >The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00009949 > > When Rio asked the question, Mandy grinned. "Sure." She turned >around, giving the Ecstatic access to her backpack. "Have away at >it." After a moment, she peered over her shoulder. "Before anything >happens, I should tell you that if you need to talk to me over the >Link, look for Raver. She's relaying things to me. Because, uh, I >kind of have issues with telepaths in my head. Fair warning." Rio sets to work on her papers, and also (with a slight look of apprehension) on making her Rio (the MP3 player) look like a contemporary AM/FM radio with the extra controls disguised as fiddly-bits. "OK, I'll try to remember." "/Raver,/" she adds over the lens link, "/If you'd keep an 'ear' out for anything you think needs to be relayed, it'd be appreciated. I may not remember the step if things get hectic./" Then: >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 08:02:34 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009951 > >"You'll need a large wallet and a bodyguard if you change all of >these," Rob says as he drops the one-ounce Krugerrands into Mandy's >hand. Rio looks thoughtful. Then the sounds of the "Dark Side of the Moon" album (OOC: guess which song? ;-) can be heard over her "radio," and she opens a dresser drawer and pulls out a wad of Deutsche marks. Eric grins wryly. "My, what a...coincidence," he says in his familiar dry tone. "Yes, isn't it?" Rio's grin is _far_ too innocent to be believed, and it's clear she doesn't believe it herself. "Come on, gang, let's go contribute to the local economy," the young mage smiles at her companions. "While we're out, we can swing by the Seven's place for a quick look. Maybe the building will have some interesting historical or architectural details that'll excuse us hanging around it for a while later." (OOC: Unless Mandy or Roger has anything else to add, shall we assume at this point that they head out to exchange the gold and then hit the shops?) ================================= Subject: AAE VII: Who's that Pokemon? On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 10:04:16 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009956 As everyone leaves, a tiny pink bubble (no larger than a marble) floats into the Place. It wends its way lazily through the bar, threading between people, drinks, and even legs as it progresses. (The Patrons, this being the Place, notice just enough to not stomp on it. 8^) Finally, it reaches the sphere in which the Sevens are held between moments. It begins to rub gently against it, not creating any disruption, but only generating a soft, gentle purr. the bubble finally starts to grow, expanding until it's about the size of a beach ball. Then it pops, as harmlessly as a soap bubble, revealing... "mew." Mew rubs her head against the sphere, quiet, gentle waves of reassurance emanating from her. ^Thanks, Mew.^ ^Anything for a friend, Eric.^ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 10:31:52 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009957 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 08:33:44 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009954 > >&Will you be able to maintain this, Nemo? I thought you might need to >drop communications completely, even this link, given the >complication of the this-Now and your-Now impasse?& &I can maintain this as long, because I'm not affecting anything but *you*. Of course, there will be limits, even to that.& >&What an odd idea, Nemo.& A vague unease stirs, but she stills it >again after a moment's thought straightens out whatever concern >caused that reaction. &But it might well work, at that. I hadn't >thought its control logic would equilibrate in a boomerang-like >fashion; somehow my impression was more a pair of one-way >transmitter/receiver types.& &Yes, but one of the things you wanted was to be able to use the power for healing yourself and to control some of your own perceptions. That requires the equivalent of "bio-feedback" units. And various "filters". All of which apply to this quite well, even if that wasn't the original intent.& ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:14:28 -0700 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009960 >The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00009950 > > On the other side of the X-Window, Raver sighed. "Nishikawa, you >had best hope you have a high credit limit. Or that someone hacks >into your credit records." /*"He does now, at least on this world. Mandy, don't worry about credit limits. Roland, and Rob, don't worry about cheating the locals. I've taken care of it. Value has been produced to more than compensate the respective banks."*/ Aurora says. /*"Does anybody else need Platinum Visa/Mastercard or American Express Gold cards? Please be aware that such transactions CAN be traced, and if our opponent gets wind of you, he may be able to find you via your use of these cards."*/ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:27:04 -0700 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009961 >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009951 > >"Umm...I don't have a credit card. But there's a coin exchange two >streets down and three over," Rob points out the directions, "and I >have these." He shakes ten coins from a bag that sits where a >shoulder holster would be, before letting it jingle back into place >against its twin. > >"You'll need a large wallet and a bodyguard if you change all of >these," Rob says as he drops the one-ounce Krugerrands into Mandy's >hand. /"*It would be safer to use these,"*/ Aurora says, and two credit cards, made out in Rob's name, appear on a dresser, with a small twinkle of light. One of the credit cards is an American Express Gold, and the other a Platinum Visa. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:30:15 -0700 Rio Said As CAoL Message # 00009962 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:14:28 -0700 >Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009960 > >/*"He does now, at least on this world. Mandy, don't worry about >credit limits. Roland, and Rob, don't worry about cheating the >locals. I've taken care of it. Value has been produced to more than >compensate the respective banks."*/ Aurora says. /*"Does anybody else >need Platinum Visa/Mastercard or American Express Gold cards? Please >be aware that such transactions CAN be traced, and if our opponent >gets wind of you, he may be able to find you via your use of these >cards."*/ "/Wouldn't it just be better to use cash?/" Rio asks. "/Well, except maybe if you're buying something _really_ expensive, where cash might draw unwanted attention, but I've known people to buy even big stuff like cars with cash./" OOC: Had platinum cards come into use that far back> I thought the "gold" card was still the Big Thing. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:50:32 -0700 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009963 >Caprice/Legion Said As CAoL Message # 00009944 >Leion sighs, and relays through to Essex. "Okay... ideas, people? My >first is to put immediate surveillance on the building where the >Seven's are staying. Nathaniel and I are willing to hold down the >fort, as it were." /*"It might be desireable for me to take the place of his favorite toy. Thus when our opponent shows up, to destroy the child, protection for him will be at hand."*/ Aurora offers. /*"Modifying records, hacking computers, and otherwise ensuring our covers need not be compromised by my taking this assignment."*/ ================================= Subject: AAE 7: Feline Questions Was: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:05:50 -0700 Fuzzy and/or Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009964 >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 18:26:29 -0400 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009935 > > Meanwhile, at the "Sieben" residence, Isis creeps along the >floor behind a MouseyBeast, sniffing the air. =Is it food? Or should >I worry?= > Nemisis will surely know "G. and R. Sieben" are in the >phonebook. After Checking to make sure that no Two-Legs would notice: =Greetings Lady Isis= =I, and, my Group were bound by a Feline Lord, To watch, That No unrecorded Complications, To Your Two-Leg's recent Mission Could Occure.= =I am told that a Flight of small Feathered things, Was also Bound to the Task.= =The Recently Frustrated Time Traveler, Wouldn't have happened to have this ^{}^ Signature about it, Would it?= =We were told that, If you happened to notice us, You would understand that Two-Leg's Minds, Should not be exposed to the Chance of Paradox.= ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:10:14 -0700 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009965 >Rio Said As CAoL Message # 00009962 > >"/Wouldn't it just be better to use cash?/" Rio asks. "/Well, except >maybe if you're buying something _really_ expensive, where cash might >draw unwanted attention, but I've known people to buy even big stuff >like cars with cash./" > >OOC: Had platinum cards come into use that far back> I thought the >"gold" card was still the Big Thing. OOC: Good point. /*"Cash has the disadvantage of drawing attention. Also it is not as easy to reimburse the government as it is a bank. In addition, some governments require all businesses to report large cash transactions."*/ Aurora counters. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:27:45 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009966 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 10:31:52 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009957 > >&I can maintain this as long, because I'm not affecting anything but >*you*. Of course, there will be limits, even to that.& & -? Is there? How quaint. Good point on the nothing but me. And don't worry about your limitations, so. After all, mine are far more than yours, even propotionally. You know I'm far too Zen to upset myself over such things.& >&Yes, but one of the things you wanted was to be able to use the >power for healing yourself and to control some of your own >perceptions. That requires the equivalent of "bio-feedback" units. >And various "filters". All of which apply to this quite well, even if >that wasn't the original intent.& &As Lord Percy would say, sink me. You're so right. I completely zoned on that one. Ah well, I never laid claim to _mental_ wizardry. Want to show me how, precisely, or want me to work through it myself? I'm not sure where your limitations should/must be, so guide me a bit on that boundary, please.& Ziactrice cocks her head slightly the other direction, this time, then she gives that small smile of hers in reaction to some small but pleasantly surprising detail. "Okay." She says, sounding noticeable happier. Zia squeezes Eric's hand on her shoulder reassuringly without even consciously realizing she did so, just because she feels that much better. "I'm fit for whatever, whenever. Shall we shop, scout locations, or just go get acquainted with the scene?" ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:41:08 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009967 >On Mon, 9 Apr 2001 21:45:26 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009931 > >"I'm basing what I know on the two issues of the Freelance Immortals >mini-series that I've seen, so I imagine that there are a few things >I have wrong." "The short version is, 'true' mages, or 'willworkers' as many of us call them, can alter reality on a fundamental level. Reality, however, takes notice, and...reacts, if the willworker alters reality too blatantly, too often." Eric glances over at Rio. "Their power is channelled through some system of knowledge or belief, such as spellcraft, faith, shamanism, every form of science imaginable, and many other, weirder systems. The more acceptable the method, the more forgiving reality is. Sooner or later, though, paradox steps in. "Paradox, I'm told, comes in many forms, but I've only seen three--the three most prevalent, I'm told. First, it physically or mentally affects the mage directly, either through raw damage or some sort of handicap. Second, a Paradox spirit will arrive to hinder the mage in some way. These spirits can be anything from Roger's friend Tiktok to Wrinkle. Third, the mage can be pulled from reality itself and placed into a sort of pocket-realm 'time out.' There, the willworker must escape without using the type of magick that got them there." >Rob blinks. "I felt that." For a moment, Rob reaches for power again, >but comes up empty. "Nothing there for me. It seems to be a quirk >peculiar to me. Although I've heard rumors of a college professor >from Ohio with similar limitations." Eric cocks his head to one side. "Ohio." >> Eric _laughs,_ an almost normal human laugh. "My friend Rob >>Nishikawa, do you suppose that we all have the same master, and that >>he just co-locates to every martial arts school in creation?" > >"If one believes the rumors, Ryu's teacher is not just stereotype, >but Dolby Stereotype. Old, pushes his students to the limit, then >sends them off into the world and disappears. But considering that my >teachers were both female, I don't think that my master was like >yours." > >"Unless your master was a transvestite, that is." Eric straightens, adjusting his sunglasses briefly. In a strange, raspy tone, he says, "'You too focused on forms, Westie. Some knowing can be taken from forms, but spirit has all knowing. And keep left up. Get head caved in, you know what angel feel like.' Something like that?" Eric finishes in his own voice with a sly grin. ================================= Subject: AAE 7a: We're in the money... On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:54:58 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009968 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:27:04 -0700 >Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009961 > >/"*It would be safer to use these,"*/ Aurora says, and two credit >cards, made out in Rob's name, appear on a dresser, with a small >twinkle of light. One of the credit cards is an American Express >Gold, and the other a Platinum Visa. /"Right. Credit cards. Seeing as I'm not going to be there to sign for them, maybe you ought to rewrite the names on those?"/ A sprinkle of light reminiscent of Tinkerbell dropping fairy dust showers over the cards, leaving changed names in its wake. After checking the names, Rob tosses one card to Rio, and the other to Mandy. "Have fun. But don't overdo it. The bags need to be easily carried, and I don't think they've invented good wheeled suitcases yet." Rob watches them leave, briefly envisioning Roger buried under a mountain of packages. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:02:25 -0700 Sil Said As CAoL Message # 00009969 >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 22:34:24 -0500 >Martin and/or Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00009937 > >>On Tue, 10 Apr 2K1 "Sil" Said: >> >> Sil chuckles. /See what happens when you volunteer? Roland >>suckered himself into the leadership slot, and he's been stuck there >>ever since./ She looks over Rob appraisingly. /On the other hand, >>you look like a good candidate for his replacement./ > >/And what am I, Silver?/ interjects the normally draconic Lensman, >doing a dead-on impersonation of Mel Brooks over the lens-link /A >loaf of bread?/ /No, hon,/ Sil replies, a smile flowing through the link, /just half baked./ ;-) /On the other hand, if you _want_ the job.../ she adds. Roland's ears perk up again. >"Hey, I certainly do not want the job but I could probably handle it. >As long, I knew it was a temporary gig, that is. I *am* the XO of >this herd of cats after all." /No one said you couldn't, Big Guy,/ Sil replied gently. /But, as you mentioned, you're smart enough not to take the job full-time./ She 'winks' at Roland as she says it, though. >*Come clean, Sib, just what _wouldn't_ you do to get out of the >Leader job for this Commando Squad of Meddlers, Well-Wishers, >Interlopers and Wanna-be Merrie Marching Band of otherwise >misbegotten Misfits?* the Human-guised Sentinel ribs his Freelance >Immortal Foster Brother. Roland considers. /You know, I was going to mention earlier something about getting impaled on Destroyer's 'Spear of Wotan' being an acceptable 'out.' Of course, that would upset Morgan, so it's not viable. Barely./ (OOC-R: I almost _did_ post this last time, so given DC's comment, I just _had_ to mention it. 8^) >> Sil chuckles. /You're doing _fine,_ Rob./ > >/Actually, for our first attempt at a truly _covert_ op. I think >that, so far, we seem to be doing pretty good. Of course, 'the >organic refuse matter has yet to impact upon the rotory impeller >device'. Yet./ /Yet,/ Roland and Morgan both say at the exact same time Dhyrclhanc does. Sil sighs dramatically. /Well, you all have fun poring over the landing site. I'll just stay here and guard the photo shoot,/ she says in a definite 'pul-leeeeze don't throw me in that briar patch' tone. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:10:42 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009970 >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009954 > >"Well." In a tone of dismissing her own possible weakness as much as >possible, Zia says, "What can I do to help out, Rob? Scout possible >locations for light? I can manage a 30 millimeter with a F-stop. >Enough to take light readings and find some spots to work at." "That will work nicely." Rob pulls a light meter from a pocket, and fiddles with it. "But would you mind using this? I'd like some time to refresh my camera skills." >She grins impudently, "And I seem to have a talent for talking the >local owners into allowing the use of the spots. I would want either >you or Eric, or both to go along, however. I choose to leave my >swords with Nemo, and carrying a gun would be quite out of >character." "You and Eric, myself and..." Rob glances at Sil. "I'm sorry, but I didn't catch your name. In any case, I'd appreciate it if you came along to help me scout the area." >"Not to mention my best defenses have nothing to do with any visible >weaponry." She adds, in a tone of reassurance that Rob is quite sure >is directed as much at Eric as himself. "Start with wit and charm, then start listing the light weaponry," Rob says with a grin. "Unless anybody has something to add, let's go hunt for a place to take a few photos. And if we see Rassilon along the way, that's luck to us. Meet back here in two hours if nothing else happens." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:26:56 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009971 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009967 > >>On Mon, 9 Apr 2001 21:45:26 -0700 (PDT) >>Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009931 >> >>Rob blinks. "I felt that." For a moment, Rob reaches for power >>again, but comes up empty. "Nothing there for me. It seems to be a >>quirk peculiar to me. Although I've heard rumors of a college >>professor from Ohio with similar limitations." > > Eric cocks his head to one side. "Ohio." "Yup. _An_ Ohio, anyway. He's part of legends in several different dimensions. Errol Shane, Shay the Herald, Arral Shea...but the description is always the same. Sword-and-sorcery in one package, with his wife by his side. And his wife is described as an archer to rival the finest bowmen in the land." > Eric straightens, adjusting his sunglasses briefly. In a strange, >raspy tone, he says, "'You too focused on forms, Westie. Some knowing >can be taken from forms, but spirit has all knowing. And keep left >up. Get head caved in, you know what angel feel like.' Something like >that?" Eric finishes in his own voice with a sly grin. "No idea. I've never met the man. But enough rambling," Rob adds, picking up odd items and shoving them in his pockets, "we've got a timeline to save." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:31:28 -0700 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00009972 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 00:56:11 -0400 >Caprice/Legion Said As CAoL Message # 00009944 > >Leion sighs, and relays through to Essex. "Okay... ideas, people? My >first is to put immediate surveillance on the building where the >Seven's are staying. Nathaniel and I are willing to hold down the >fort, as it were." Roland nods. "Good idea." >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:50:32 -0700 >Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009963 > >/*"It might be desireable for me to take the place of his favorite >toy. Thus when our opponent shows up, to destroy the child, >protection for him will be at hand."*/ Aurora offers. /*"Modifying >records, hacking computers, and otherwise ensuring our covers need >not be compromised by my taking this assignment."*/ "Excellent idea," Roland replies. "That covers Mike for the moment. We've got people set to monitor the area, and the 'Interpol team' can cover tracking down Rassilon Khan." 'Agent Harmon' chuckles. "Sounds like a Shadow villain." >Essex gives Legion a look that clearly reads as an intent to finish >their talk as soon as the two of them are alone. Roland looks at his lens. "Clock's ticking, folks. We'd better move, team." He heads for the garage, motioning for any 'Interpol' agents who don't get the hint to follow. >On Thu, 5 Apr 2001 16:04:13 -0700 (PDT) >Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00009886 > >a brand new looking Black and silver 1975 Mercedes Benz Sedan Roland looks the car over. /Classy. Looks like it'll seat the team comfortably, too. Nice work, Jim./ >Then he starts off towards civilization, driving around a bit to >familiarize himself with the area and to make sure no one's following >him before he drives to Legion and Essex's home and parks himself in >the garage. /This message will self-destruct in five seconds. Good luck, Jim./ Roland chuckles. /"Sorry. The whole thing reminds me of a Mission: Impossible episode on acid."/ Becoming serious again, he holds the door open for his wife. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:37:04 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009973 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 00:00:42 -0700 (PDT) >The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00009948 > > ^Mandy is not interested.^ Raver eyes him carefully. The >unspoken 'Not if I have anything to do with it,' is clear. If Raver >had been human, Eric would've seen a clear 'So there.' expression. Eric is almost more familiar with demons than people. 8^) ^Never said she was,^ he replies mildly. ^Didn't say I was, either. Trying to avoid it, personally.^ He trails off. ^reminds me too much of...^ Then his gaze returns to her briefly, calm but hard as steel. ^But you'd best be ready to be...flexible...when the one she _is_ interested in finds her. We cannot protect them forever,^ he says, voice matching his gaze, ^no matter how we may wish it otherwise.^ ================================= Subject: Re:AAE 7: Feline Questions Was: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 02:14:38 -0400 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009974 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:05:50 -0700 >Fuzzy and/or Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00009964 > >=Greetings Lady Isis= > >=I, and, my Group were bound by a Feline Lord, > To watch, > That No unrecorded Complications, > To Your Two-Leg's recent Mission Could Occure.= > >=I am told that a Flight of small Feathered things, > Was also Bound to the Task.= > >=The Recently Frustrated Time Traveler, > Wouldn't have happened to have this ^{}^ Signature about it, > Would it?= > > Gallifreyian Temporal Conveyors, > May or may not indicate Time Scoop Victims, also > Signature of the Naked Sigularity called, > The Eye of Harmony.> > >=We were told that, > If you happened to notice us, > You would understand that Two-Leg's Minds, > Should not be exposed to the Chance of Paradox.= [This is 'worry.'] the feline concludes for herself. Isis sits, thinking, tail whipping back and forth, in the throes of a heavy decision. =I can not confirm nor deny that to you,= she says, finally, =I would have to speak with this Lord directly. To be convinced not to alert the 'two-legs' that something dangerous was scouting our territory.= ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 04:09:32 -0400 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009975 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:50:32 -0700 >Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009963 > >/*"It might be desireable for me to take the place of his favorite >toy. Thus when our opponent shows up, to destroy the child, >protection for him will be at hand."*/ Aurora offers. /*"Modifying >records, hacking computers, and otherwise ensuring our covers need >not be compromised by my taking this assignment."*/ A little surveillence will determine that the favorite toy of the future time-traveling tot, the one he will refuse to leave the house without, is a beat-up, banged up, chewed-up, pulled on and drug around grey, stuffed, sweat-sock monkey named "Bobo." This will become obviously apparent the first time Roberta takes young Mike out, but can probably be deduced from its placement in the crib and its general condition already. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 04:09:35 -0400 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009976 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:10:42 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009970 > >>Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009954 > >"You and Eric, myself and..." Rob glances at Sil. "I'm sorry, but I >didn't catch your name. In any case, I'd appreciate it if you came >along to help me scout the area." > >>"Not to mention my best defenses have nothing to do with any visible >>weaponry." She adds, in a tone of reassurance that Rob is quite sure >>is directed as much at Eric as himself. > >"Start with wit and charm, then start listing the light weaponry," >Rob says with a grin. "Unless anybody has something to add, let's go >hunt for a place to take a few photos. And if we see Rassilon along >the way, that's luck to us. Meet back here in two hours if nothing >else happens." Moonstone blinks, just finishing applying a coat of nail polish, "Uhm, what'm I doing?" ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 04:09:34 -0400 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009977 >On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 21:04:08 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009942 > >>>On Tue, 10 Apr 2001 07:44:32 -0700 (PDT) >>>Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009933 >>> >>>>Michael Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009902 >>>> >>>> Moonstone steps through the portal. "Hi Rob, model number 2, >>>>reporting in. I don't think we've met before. I'm Moonstone." >>> >>>"No, I don't think we have," Rob replies, offering to shake her >>>hand. Moonstone accepts, her grip very light and soft. >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009935 >> >> Moonstone steps over to the mirror, opening the tube as she >>goes, then applies the lipstick, blotting with a hotel tissue. She >>turns back to Rob, obviously looking for his impression of the color >>in relation to her almost albinstic complextion, only slightly >>modified by the very light gold dye in her hair. > >[...the fair face of Moonstone, who does look good in that shade of >lipstick.] > >"I like it. Red enough to draw attention, without contrasting too >heavily." Rob pulls out a few other cosmetics, including a Box of >Many Colors, then puts most of it back. "My suggestion is the light >pink nail polish, and the light blue from here for eyeshadow. But use >your own judgement - if your clothing is any indicator, you have a >solid color sense." Moonstone looks elated. Rob couldn't have paid the dragoness a higher compliment. She turns back to the mirror, but hesitates over the eye shadow. "You know, in four years of playing human, I've never used this stuff," she says, setting the box down and picking up the nail polish instead. "I'll work on the nails, but I'll need a hand later with that if it's important to the look." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 06:59:07 EDT SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00009979 >In a message dated 4/11/01 1:13:28 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >Rio writes: > >Rio looks thoughtful. Then the sounds of the "Dark Side of the Moon" >album (OOC: guess which song? ;-) can be heard over her "radio," and >she opens a dresser drawer and pulls out a wad of Deutsche marks. > > Eric grins wryly. "My, what a...coincidence," he says in his >familiar dry tone. > >"Yes, isn't it?" Rio's grin is _far_ too innocent to be believed, and >it's clear she doesn't believe it herself. Roger just shakes his head. "I have *gotta* learn that trick. Just in case my document forging equipment breaks down, you understand..." >"Come on, gang, let's go contribute to the local economy," the young >mage smiles at her companions. "While we're out, we can swing by the >Seven's place for a quick look. Maybe the building will have some >interesting historical or architectural details that'll excuse us >hanging around it for a while later." "Gimme just a second to change modes, luv, and I'll be right with you. Power shopping, oh boy," he adds not quite sotto voce (hey, the token male on any shopping expedition *has* to register some kind of complaint, even if it is just pro forma. The Guys Union has certain rules, after all). With a bit of concentration, Roger shifts his clothes to upper-middle-class respectable college student, with an added hint of off-duty young military cadet. His body language subtly changes to something more intimidating, rather like Eric, and a pair of sunglasses tops off the combo. "Just in case we draw unwanted attention at the exchange," he explains. "A bit of confident-tough 'tude, plus a bit of SEP field effect, and we should be able to avoid any local entrepreneurs of the sub-economy." He offers each lovely young lady an arm, in perfect imitation of a well-brought-up young German aristocrat. "Shall we, Frauleins?" OOC: Roger von Greywolf -- von Phoenix just doesn't seem Teutonic enough.... ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 02:58:55 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009981 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:27:45 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009966 > >>&I can maintain this as long, because I'm not affecting anything but >>*you*. Of course, there will be limits, even to that.& > >& -? Is there? How quaint. Good point on the nothing but me. And >don't worry about your limitations, so. After all, mine are far more >than yours, even propotionally. You know I'm far too Zen to upset >myself over such things.& &Yes, but these limits are rather like that quaint old idea of "cosmic censorship" that some physicists are playing with on the worls you are on. So don't be surprised if I don't "hear" things occasionally.& >>&Yes, but one of the things you wanted was to be able to use the >>power for healing yourself and to control some of your own >>perceptions. That requires the equivalent of "bio-feedback" units. >>And various "filters". All of which apply to this quite well, even >>if that wasn't the original intent.& > >&As Lord Percy would say, sink me. You're so right. I completely >zoned on that one. Ah well, I never laid claim to _mental_ wizardry. >Want to show me how, precisely, or want me to work through it myself? >I'm not sure where your limitations should/must be, so guide me a bit >on that boundary, please.& &You set up a command trigger though like [this] and it ties into your intent. So you can think about the trigger without triggering it unless you intend to trigger it. Then you are in "program mode" and tell the link what you want.& &There are a few preset sequences for things like ignoring pain or damage if you need to keep going in spite of them. And also, some for making your mind and body appear to react "normally" in situtions where you can't let your true nature be discovered.& &They'll hold up to the point at which you appear to be dead. But I don't recommend letting things go that far if you can avoid it. Being tortured or executed is *not* fun, even when you are mostly shielded from it.& &But for now, you just what to kill the nausea and re-orient your "directional sense".& >or just Nemo's answer/action, then presuming success...> While no apparent forces are exerted, Zia's body undergoes a sudden change. In much less than a second she goes from slightly pallid and shaky to healthy skin tones and ven before she straightens up, the effect is almost like a picture coming into focus. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 05:21:41 -0700 Squee Said As CAoL Message # 00009983 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:31:28 -0700 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00009972 >>a brand new looking Black and silver 1975 Mercedes Benz Sedan > > Roland looks the car over. /Classy. Looks like it'll seat the team >comfortably, too. Nice work, Jim./ Jim isn't on the minilens link, he was getting piggybacked by Nemesis over the nanite language link before. Just thought I'd remind peoples. and I'll assume the above projected at him rather than JUST link sent ;-) Jim's voice comes over the speakers, "Thank you, we weren't sure what interpol agents would normally be driving but figured this looked important enough. naturally I can change the color and design anytime it's needed for conspicuousness. The interior is maintained in a dimentional pocket so everyone can fit even if I change into a volkswagon bug. even certain dragonie posteriors won't have trouble fitting." he chuckles. >>Then he starts off towards civilization, driving around a bit to >>familiarize himself with the area and to make sure no one's >>following him before he drives to Legion and Essex's home and parks >>himself in the garage. > > /This message will self-destruct in five seconds. Good luck, Jim./ >Roland chuckles. /"Sorry. The whole thing reminds me of a Mission: >Impossible episode on acid."/ Becoming serious again, he holds the >door open for his wife. "I'm not having any exploding tapes unless you really want one, but there is a wide seclection of 8 tracks you can choose from. Perhaps Willie Nelson On_The_Road_Again_ is an appropriate selection?" BTW, just for odds and ends information, the interior of Jim is cream colored corinthian leather, His dash is stocked with all kinds of state of the art goodies, an AM/FM stereo radio with 8 track player, a CB radio, clock, compass, a pair of fuzzy dice... alos if anyone asks Jim for anything it can be formed withing seconds wherever it'd be most appropriate and easiest to get to. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 08:16:44 -0700 Rio Said As CAoL Message # 00009985 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:10:14 -0700 >Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009965 > >>Rio Said As CAoL Message # 00009962 >> >>"/Wouldn't it just be better to use cash?/" Rio asks. "/Well, except >>maybe if you're buying something _really_ expensive, where cash >>might draw unwanted attention, but I've known people to buy even big >>stuff like cars with cash./" > >/*"Cash has the disadvantage of drawing attention. Also it is not as >easy to reimburse the government as it is a bank. In addition, some >governments require all businesses to report large cash >transactions."*/ Aurora counters. "/Cash draws attention when you're making big purchases. Credit cards draw attention when you're making small ones, like say a cup of coffee? Seems to me we should have some of both./" Rio smiles. "/Besides,/" she adds, holding up her own newly-acquired cash, "/it just wouldn't feel right using 'mission funds' for personal shopping./" ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 08:48:02 -0700 Sil Said As CAoL Message # 00009986 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:10:42 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009970 > >"You and Eric, myself and..." Rob glances at Sil. "I'm sorry, but I >didn't catch your name. In any case, I'd appreciate it if you came >along to help me scout the area." "Call me Sil," she says with a smile, holding out her hand (to offer a handshake). >"Start with wit and charm, then start listing the light weaponry," Sil finds the outside of her fingernails suddenly very interesting. There's a snik-CHNK sound, and they're suddenly gleaming like brightly polished white gold. She smiles slyly, and a snik-CHIK later, they're back to normal. >Rob says with a grin. "Unless anybody has something to add, let's go >hunt for a place to take a few photos. And if we see Rassilon along >the way, that's luck to us. Meet back here in two hours if nothing >else happens." Sil nods. "I guess we should pair up bodyguards to models." She grins at Eric and Zia, then turns to Moonstone. "So, what sounds like fun in 1975 West Germany? I think we're too far away to point at Das Wall and laugh." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 09:02:19 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009987 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 08:33:44 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009954 > >Ziactrice's head startles enough that Eric and anyone else still >looking at her can notice as her eyebrow rises. She gives a >singularly old-fashioned look to the point in space here where the >X-window was, at Nemo (even if she cannot see through this side). Eric notes this, but says nothing--it doesn't seem related to her strange illness. >She grins impudently, "And I seem to have a talent for talking the >local owners into allowing the use of the spots. I would want either >you or Eric, or both to go along, however. I choose to leave my >swords with Nemo, and carrying a gun would be quite out of >character." "How conspicuous do you want me to be?" Eric asks professionally. >"Not to mention my best defenses have nothing to do with any visible >weaponry." She adds, in a tone of reassurance that Rob is quite sure >is directed as much at Eric as himself. Eric grins in his inimitable fashion. "Only the first line of defense in my case, I'm afraid--far from my best. On the other hand..." a few shuriken make the rounds into his left hand, then back into his sleeve, with impressive speed, "...there's nothing quite like putting the period in someone else's sentence when they're being...excessive." Then: >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 20:27:45 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009966 > >Ziactrice cocks her head slightly the other direction, this time, >then she gives that small smile of hers in reaction to some small but >pleasantly surprising detail. Eric notes this with carefully controlled curiosity. >"Okay." She says, sounding noticeable happier. Zia squeezes Eric's >hand on her shoulder reassuringly without even consciously realizing >she did so, just because she feels that much better. Eric nods, returns the squeeze _gently,_ then retracts his hand. >"I'm fit for whatever, whenever. Shall we shop, scout locations, or >just go get acquainted with the scene?" "Shopping seems to be accounted for," Eric notes. "Though if you're getting your own, you may want to choose items yourself. Since we're trying to justify a location nearby the intended victim, your talents--what I know of them--seem suited to the task." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 09:45:54 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009988 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009976 > >>Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009970 >> >>"Start with wit and charm, then start listing the light weaponry," >>Rob says with a grin. "Unless anybody has something to add, let's go >>hunt for a place to take a few photos. And if we see Rassilon along >>the way, that's luck to us. Meet back here in two hours if nothing >>else happens." > > Moonstone blinks, just finishing applying a coat of nail polish, >"Uhm, what'm I doing?" Rob stops, halfway to the door, and smacks himself in the forehead with the palm of his hand, then drags his hand down his face. "Right. Um...your call. If you hurry, you might be able to catch Mandy, Rio, and Roger. Otherwise, go with one of the shot-blocking groups, as the model used to test locations." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 09:57:40 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009990 >Sil Said As CAoL Message # 00009986 > > "Call me Sil," she says with a smile, holding out her hand (to >offer a handshake). Rob shakes her hand. "Pleased to meet you, Sil." > Sil nods. "I guess we should pair up bodyguards to models." "You have a point, Sil. Moon, you're with Sil and me." >She grins at Eric and Zia, then turns to Moonstone. "So, what sounds >like fun in 1975 West Germany? I think we're too far away to point at >Das Wall and laugh." "What's fun isn't important. Cover story: looking for places to take photographs. Real Story: No need to recap that, we all know what's going on. But if the light is good and the background works, we could end up scouting out a junkyard." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 10:00:35 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009991 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 06:59:07 EDT >SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00009979 > > "Gimme just a second to change modes, luv, and I'll be right with >you. Power shopping, oh boy," he adds not quite sotto voce (hey, the >token male on any shopping expedition *has* to register some kind of >complaint, even if it is just pro forma. The Guys Union has certain >rules, after all). Eric's expression changes subtly. It could be...sympathetic...but it's an awfully vague change. > With a bit of concentration, Roger shifts his clothes to upper- >middle-class respectable college student, with an added hint of >off-duty young military cadet. His body language subtly changes to >something more intimidating, rather like Eric, and a pair of >sunglasses tops off the combo. "That's Floating Dragon stance," Eric notes, mildly astonished. (OOC-R: If Roger _didn't_ learn Shih-style martial arts from Uncle Eric, or you don't want him using it, just add an 'almost' in that line somewhere. 8^) > OOC: Roger von Greywolf -- von Phoenix just doesn't seem >Teutonic enough.... OOC-R: It does seem to suit him... ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 10:03:40 -0700 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00009992 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 05:21:41 -0700 >Squee Said As CAoL Message # 00009983 > >>On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 21:31:28 -0700 >>Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00009972 >> >> Roland looks the car over. /Classy. Looks like it'll seat the >>team comfortably, too. Nice work, Jim./ >> > Jim isn't on the minilens link, he was getting piggybacked by >Nemesis over the nanite language link before. Just thought I'd remind >peoples. and I'll assume the above projected at him rather than JUST >link sent ;-) OOC-R: Add ** symbols to the above. 8^) > Jim's voice comes over the speakers, "Thank you, we weren't sure >what interpol agents would normally be driving but figured this >looked important enough. naturally I can change the color and design >anytime it's needed for conspicuousness. The interior is maintained >in a dimentional pocket so everyone can fit even if I change into a >volkswagon bug. even certain dragonie posteriors won't have trouble >fitting." he chuckles. Roland chuckles. "Useful. But we shouldn't look like a 'clown car' skit if we can help it." >> /This message will self-destruct in five seconds. Good luck, >>Jim./ Roland chuckles. /"Sorry. The whole thing reminds me of a >>Mission: Impossible episode on acid."/ Becoming serious again, he >>holds the door open for his wife. > >"I'm not having any exploding tapes unless you really want one, but >there is a wide seclection of 8 tracks you can choose from. Perhaps >Willie Nelson On_The_Road_Again_ is an appropriate selection?" Roland looks suitably horrified. "Eight...tracks? I remember seeing one when I was younger...I think...one time when I was visiting an uncle. "And if we're going to have travelling music...has Metallica gotten together yet? Metal was just getting started some time in the late 70s, but I have no idea when." (OOC-R: I'm not kidding about the 8-tracks. I've seen them once, at my Uncle Pete's. 8^) > BTW, just for odds and ends information, the interior of Jim is >cream colored corinthian leather, His dash is stocked with all kinds >of state of the art goodies, an AM/FM stereo radio with 8 track >player, a CB radio, clock, compass, a pair of fuzzy dice... alos if >anyone asks Jim for anything it can be formed withing seconds >wherever it'd be most appropriate and easiest to get to. OOC-R: Ah yes, state of the art--for 1975... "Jim, could you add a 70s-looking car phone? Even if it's a bit anachronistic, we're 'secret agent' enough to justify it. Especially considering what we're investigating." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 10:05:37 -0700 Sil Said As CAoL Message # 00009993 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 09:45:54 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009988 > >Rob stops, halfway to the door, and smacks himself in the forehead >with the palm of his hand, then drags his hand down his face. > >"Right. Um...your call. If you hurry, you might be able to catch >Mandy, Rio, and Roger. Otherwise, go with one of the shot-blocking >groups, as the model used to test locations." OOC: Sil already took care of this, I think, paring herself with Moon so that Eric would "have" to go with Zia . ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 15:20:51 -0400 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009995 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 09:57:40 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009990 > >>Sil Said As CAoL Message # 00009986 >> >> Sil nods. "I guess we should pair up bodyguards to models." > >"You have a point, Sil. Moon, you're with Sil and me." > >>She grins at Eric and Zia, then turns to Moonstone. "So, what sounds >>like fun in 1975 West Germany? I think we're too far away to point >>at Das Wall and laugh." > >"What's fun isn't important. Cover story: looking for places to take >photographs. Real Story: No need to recap that, we all know what's >going on. But if the light is good and the background works, we could >end up scouting out a junkyard." Moon Stone nods, plucking a plain white T-shirt from her backpack's interior before dropping it by the bed. She steps into the bathroom, switchs T-shirts, the Dalhousie going in the backpack, along with the transistor radio, when she comes out to rejoin Rob and Sil. "Ready. Rob, consider my camera yours," she says, holding out the Nikon, "it's fairly expensive, at least by student standards for the time, the telephoto lens being the brunt of the cost. It should pass for professional. At least freelancer professional." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 13:27:14 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009996 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009995 > > Moon Stone nods, plucking a plain white T-shirt from her >backpack's interior before dropping it by the bed. She steps into the >bathroom, switchs T-shirts, the Dalhousie going in the backpack, >along with the transistor radio, when she comes out to rejoin Rob and >Sil. > "Ready. Rob, consider my camera yours," she says, holding out >the Nikon, "it's fairly expensive, at least by student standards for >the time, the telephoto lens being the brunt of the cost. It should >pass for professional. At least freelancer professional." Rob studies the replica Canon that he's wearing around his neck with several rolls of unused film stored in the strap, notes the wide-angle lens and telephoto lenses in carrying cases, moves on to the light meter, and stops. "Somehow, I think the gear I'm borrowing from Dhyrclhanc will do nicely. You might offer your camera to Zia, though." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 14:43:44 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009998 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 10:03:40 -0700 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00009992 > > OOC-R: Ah yes, state of the art--for 1975... > "Jim, could you add a 70s-looking car phone? Even if it's a bit >anachronistic, we're 'secret agent' enough to justify it. Especially >considering what we're investigating." It's a "mobile phone". You contact the mobile operator, and she connects you to the number. I forget how incoming calls work. But I can find out fairly fast. I don't *think* cell phones are around yet, not even the early ones. The gear is the size of a *large* suitcase, and usually hidden in the trunk. Only the handset will be on the dash. Just like the old black desk phones. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 19:26:25 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010000 >On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 08:26:15 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009952 > >>Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00009941 >> >>Ziactrice notable gets the list of active ingredients, studies them >>carefully as she sips the water, but she is still holding the pill. >>"Ah. These should all be quite ... safe. No psycho-active tranqs." >>She takes it and drinks the rest of the water with some degree of >>thirst. > >[Psycho-actives? Why would...oh. Right.] Rob's face briefly shows >panic at the thought of a person who can change reality by force of >will suffering from hallucinations. Ziactrice not only notices his expression, she instantly decodes the thought that caused it. She tries to give him a reassuring smile, but even her expression is a bit dulled by her knowledge of just how bad a real event of that sort can become. And 'bad acid trip' even fits the current year. >"Zia? Your hair is lovely, but...well, it isn't period." He then >says, in an over-the-top French accent, "Zo, eef zee good Dame weel >permit, I would rectify that problem." > >The lens-link shows a brief image of Rob's face on a can with the >Hormel logo. Zia blinks, shakes her head in amusement at the image, then she smiles. "Well, it was period when Nemo did it. But the more things change, the more things stay the same. I'll figure out that light meter, then, while you work." She shifts her chair and lets him get busy. "Yes, I might want to shop later, but I am fairly certain I can trust Rio's eye to bring me back something flattering enough for this work. Not to mention Sil and I have some acquaintance." The petite Amberite grins impudently in the mirror. She fiddles with the light meter while holding still for Rob, plainly she has quite a bit of practice with someone else working on her while she does something else. >>Ziactrice Said >> >>"Get a good sewing kit together, for me, whilst you're shopping, if >>you > >"You'll have it." "Thank you. Most helpful." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 19:29:29 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010001 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 04:09:34 -0400 >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00009977 > > Moonstone looks elated. Rob couldn't have paid the dragoness a >higher compliment. She turns back to the mirror, but hesitates over >the eye shadow. > "You know, in four years of playing human, I've never used this >stuff," she says, setting the box down and picking up the nail polish >instead. "I'll work on the nails, but I'll need a hand later with >that if it's important to the look." "Ah. Somewhat, especially for photography, Moonstone. I'll be happy to show you a trick or two I have happened to pick up here and there. Although I make no claim on especial expertise with such." Zia offers. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 19:42:00 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010002 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 02:58:55 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00009981 > >&Yes, but these limits are rather like that quaint old idea of >"cosmic censorship" that some physicists are playing with on the >worls you are on. So don't be surprised if I don't "hear" things >occasionally.& &I'm so glad you told me. I always feel so thick when I don't catch on until I've repeated myself blue in the face. If that isn't a literal 'not hearing' when you self-erase something, set me a warning code, and let me have a solid signal to warn me off? If that is possible, that is. I'd like to stay linked just for company's sake, if you may. But it is all right if you needs must do otherwise.& >&There are a few preset sequences for things like ignoring pain or >damage if you need to keep going in spite of them. And also, some for >making your mind and body appear to react "normally" in situtions >where you can't let your true nature be discovered.& Zia half-frowns, then shakes her head. There is no way an entity such as Nemo could have FAILED to set things up to protect her as much as he could. In fact, she encouraged it. Hopefully, he has been as thorough with the more enjoyable benefit 'sequences' and she just hasn't found out about those yet. >&They'll hold up to the point at which you appear to be dead. But I >don't recommend letting things go that far if you can avoid it. Being >tortured or executed is *not* fun, even when you are mostly shielded >from it.& The petite Amberite who once spent a few very uncomfortable hours with Jadis merely raises one eyebrow at the mirror as Rob works on her hair. &Yes, Nemo. Of _course_, dear.& In tones similar to the ones he used on her earlier. >&But for now, you just what to kill the nausea and re-orient your >"directional sense".& > >While no apparent forces are exerted, Zia's body undergoes a sudden >change. In much less than a second she goes from slightly pallid and >shaky to healthy skin tones and ven before she straightens up, the >effect is almost like a picture coming into focus. Zia lets her 'working face' come on along behind this general improvement, and hers is to a wholly different vector than Eric's. She takes on a bright, almost glowing charisma, an elegance of movement, and that 'drawing the eye' effect of those women who reach out of the Silver Screen and draw one into the movie's plot so easily. She chuckles in self-confident humor; she can see the effect in the mirror. While clearly pleased and self-confident there is nothing 'snobbish' about it, just a calm poise. If Morgan were here, she would instantly recognize it as very like the manner of a certain James she once met. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 20:00:16 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010003 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 09:02:19 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009987 > > "How conspicuous do you want me to be?" Eric asks professionally. Zia thinks about that seriously a moment, regarding Eric's reflection in the mirror. "Less and more. Right now, you look way too good to be working bodyguard for a photo shoot, even if one of us were famous in another country. Probably because you are that good." "I think perhaps losing the duster for a biker jacket and a tight muscle shirt, keeping the sunglasses, losing the sidle-sidestep martial arts relaxed crouch walk for a 'tougher than you' big guy walk, and you'll do nicely. Right now, you look more like second ring assassin take-out role than bodyguard to a nutty photographer and a gaggle of model-type girls. Er, I mean, you look more like the one who is _not seen_ more than one who is meant to be seen so as to intimidate too-friendly male locals. Although I haven't really seen how the tough guys dress here yet. Let's check." /Hey, anyone out there have a good cross-culture imagery of 'how the toughest hombre' is dressing this spring?/ > "Shopping seems to be accounted for," Eric notes. "Though if >you're getting your own, you may want to choose items yourself. Since >we're trying to justify a location nearby the intended victim, your >talents--what I know of them--seem suited to the task." Zia gives him a sideglance about that 'what I know of your talents'. Could _Eric_ be indulging in innuedo? She decides he is. Then she decides not to discourage that. Especially in her direction. "Ah, true. No shopping until later. I'll wander around and see what some soft-shadowtwisting can accomplish. Just decide it's probably there is a great angle or light somewhere around that will work out conveniently to our purpose." ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 20:06:13 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010004 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 13:27:14 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00009996 > >Rob studies the replica Canon that he's wearing around his neck with >several rolls of unused film stored in the strap, notes the wide- >angle lens and telephoto lenses in carrying cases, moves on to the >light meter, and stops. "Somehow, I think the gear I'm borrowing from >Dhyrclhanc will do nicely. You might offer your camera to Zia, >though." Zia grabs a purse that Eric knows for SURE didn't cross through the X-window with her. He is fairly certain it wasn't present in the room, either, until just as she was picking it up. But he isn't quite 100% positive she just made it appear out of thin air, either. "Oh, I wouldn't want to take her camera, really. Let her shoot at me for tests, since she obviously understands her own gear better." Zia grins deprecatatingly at Moonstone. "My tech background is recent, so I'm not too good with complicated machines. Would you mind?" She'll follow the group out, and walk around with Eric and Moonstone taking shots here and there. Zia will start shadow-shifting slowly (the 'easy way' so as not to make 'bad' side-effects) to make it more probably they happen to fall into a situation that serves their quest's needs. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 20:09:49 -0700 Sil Said As CAoL Message # 00010005 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 19:26:25 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010000 > >Zia blinks, shakes her head in amusement at the image, then she >smiles. "Well, it was period when Nemo did it. But the more things >change, the more things stay the same. I'll figure out that light >meter, then, while you work." > >She shifts her chair and lets him get busy. "Yes, I might want to >shop later, but I am fairly certain I can trust Rio's eye to bring me >back something flattering enough for this work. Not to mention Sil >and I have some acquaintance." The petite Amberite grins impudently >in the mirror. > >She fiddles with the light meter while holding still for Rob, plainly >she has quite a bit of practice with someone else working on her >while she does something else. I can't blame you for missing it in that game of musical jobs we played earlier :-), but Sil called "dibs on the shopping" for the models. Now that I think of it, I think Rob missed that fact, too ;-). Roland had even forgotten . So, since Rob gave Mandy cash and/or plastic, let's say Mandy and Sil are shopping for Zia and Moon (not necessarily in that order), with Rio helping Mandy while she does some serious shopping for herself ;-). "By the way, Rob baby," Sil asks in a very Hollywood tone, "what look are we going for here? Classic? Funky? Eclectic?" She grins widely at the last suggestion. ================================= Subject: AAE 7a: Going out... On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 02:49:17 -0400 Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00010006 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 20:06:13 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010004 > >"Oh, I wouldn't want to take her camera, really. Let her shoot at me >for tests, since she obviously understands her own gear better." Zia >grins deprecatatingly at Moonstone. "My tech background is recent, so >I'm not too good with complicated machines. Would you mind?" "Moon" smirks, "Sorry, Rob, musta missed that when I came in. Anyway, since no one needs it (you've got the light meter, Zia, and Rob wanted to practice his skills anyway) I'll just play 'dumb' blonde." She tosses the camera in the backpack, stands. giving one last check in the mirror, and frowns, "Now I've got that 'Barbie Girl' song stuck in my head. Oh well, let's go." >She'll follow the group out, and walk around with Eric and Moonstone >taking shots here and there. Zia will start shadow-shifting slowly >(the 'easy way' so as not to make 'bad' side-effects) to make it more >probably they happen to fall into a situation that serves their >quest's needs. Rob'd actually be taking shots. And has Zia's luck worked already or what? It's a "picture-perfect" morning in St. Goar/St. Goarshausen, the two towns nearest the Lorelei rock. Sil, Mandy, Rio and Roger will find a regular ferry to take them across the river from St. Goar to St. Goarshausen. St. Goar is the more traditional, pretty, and touristy side, with the opposite town more normal. The "Seiben" apartment is in the phonebook, located on the St. Goarshausen side of the river. In that family home, Roberta is packing up young Michael's normal things, as well as Bobo the monkey, and putting him and Bobo in a backpack as she puts his bag in the bottom of a small personal shopping cart. "Okay, Roberta, Mikey," she says, giving her reflection and that of her son's over her shoulder a smile as she checks her hair and her pale blue sundress, "We're ready to go." Mikey giggles, saying "Maa maa maa maa." as he puts Bobo in a good imitation of a chokehold. Mother, son, starspawn-Bobo and feathery things start walking/riding/flying into town. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7a: Saddle up, Lock 'n Load (was Past Imperfect) On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 13:47:14 EDT SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00010008 >In a message dated 4/12/01 1:52:01 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >The Hunter writes: > >> With a bit of concentration, Roger shifts his clothes to upper- >>middle-class respectable college student, with an added hint of >>off-duty young military cadet. His body language subtly changes to >>something more intimidating, rather like Eric, and a pair of >>sunglasses tops off the combo. > > "That's Floating Dragon stance," Eric notes, mildly astonished. > (OOC-R: If Roger _didn't_ learn Shih-style martial arts from Uncle >Eric, or you don't want him using it, just add an 'almost' in that >line somewhere. 8^) Roger just grins in reply. "What can I say. I learn from the best." OOC: I vote that we leave it open...though Roger automatically learns-by-watching from *everyone* he associates with, so even if Eric didn't formally teach him on his homeline, he's certainly picked up a bit just in the past few weeks... ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 13:54:10 EDT SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00010009 >In a message dated 4/12/01 1:55:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >RolandX writes: > > Roland looks suitably horrified. "Eight...tracks? I remember >seeing one when I was younger...I think...one time when I was >visiting an uncle." /Oh, c'mon, Daddy-O. Don't get all square on me know./ Roger interjects linkwise. /It's true 8Ts were rather...primitive...but what do you expect from a first-generation app? And they *do* work, whatever else one might say about them./ > "And if we're going to have travelling music...has Metallica >gotten together yet? Metal was just getting started some time in the >late 70s, but I have no idea when." /We *might* be early enough to catch some Van Halen,/ Roger conjectures. /And I think Rush did some of their earliest work about now, although I generally preferred their later stuff. Alan Parsons Project might be around.../ > (OOC-R: I'm not kidding about the 8-tracks. I've seen them once, >at my Uncle Pete's. 8^) OOC: Heck, I've even *used* the darn things, and I'm a tech-snob. I think I might even have one or two moldering about the house somewhere (still awaiting transfer to cassette or CD...probably never happen now) ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 11:50:23 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00010010 >On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 20:00:16 -0700 (PDT) >Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010003 > >>On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 09:02:19 -0700 >>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00009987 >> >> "How conspicuous do you want me to be?" Eric asks professionally. > >Zia thinks about that seriously a moment, regarding Eric's reflection >in the mirror. "Less and more. Right now, you look way too good to be >working bodyguard for a photo shoot, even if one of us were famous in >another country. Probably because you are that good." Eric regards Zia evenly. >"I think perhaps losing the duster for a biker jacket and a tight >muscle shirt, His expression becomes a little less even. 8^) At this point, a chuckle stifled into almost a snort comes across the link from Rio. She's obviously trying very hard not to laugh, but not doing very well ;-). Eric manages to send a glare through the link somehow. >keeping the sunglasses, losing the sidle-sidestep martial arts >relaxed crouch walk for a 'tougher than you' big guy walk, and you'll >do nicely. Right now, you look more like second ring assassin >take-out role than bodyguard to a nutty photographer and a gaggle of >model-type girls. Eric manages not to scowl, but the effort shows. "The sunglasses hold jade used for some chi effects. 'Second ring.' Hrm." >Er, I mean, you look more like the one who is _not seen_ more than >one who is meant to be seen so as to intimidate too-friendly male >locals. Although I haven't really seen how the tough guys dress here >yet. Let's check." Eric sighs, then straightens. Only now, as he deliberately stiffens his stance, would most people realize just how _fluid_ he is most of the time. He lets the scowl show, on purpose in this case, and it makes an almost invisible scar from the bottom of his left eye to the corner of his mouth show luridly. He folds his arms. "Better?" Another group of people would be getting chills. 8^) >> "Shopping seems to be accounted for," Eric notes. "Though if >>you're getting your own, you may want to choose items yourself. >>Since we're trying to justify a location nearby the intended victim, >>your talents--what I know of them--seem suited to the task." > >Zia gives him a sideglance about that 'what I know of your talents'. >Could _Eric_ be indulging in innuedo? She decides he is. Then she >decides not to discourage that. Especially in her direction. Eric regards the return gaze curiously, apparently uncertain of its meaning. >"Ah, true. No shopping until later. I'll wander around and see what >some soft-shadowtwisting can accomplish. Just decide it's probably >there is a great angle or light somewhere around that will work out >conveniently to our purpose." Eric nods. "I would like to know if you are aware of any similarity between your powers and that of the 'mages' on my world, if it wouldn't be prying." /=He learns fast,=/ Mew sends with a giggle. Eric sighs (tm Seosaidh)... ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 11:57:27 -0700 Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00010011 >On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 13:54:10 EDT >SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00010009 > > /Oh, c'mon, Daddy-O. Don't get all square on me know./ Roger >interjects linkwise. /It's true 8Ts were rather...primitive...but >what do you expect from a first-generation app? And they *do* work, >whatever else one might say about them./ /'Square?' You weren't even _born_ in the 20th Century. IIRC, there _was_ no second generation for 8-tracks./ Roland shakes his head. /Tapes you can't tape on...whose bright idea was that? Then again, mini-discs flopped.../ > /We *might* be early enough to catch some Van Halen,/ Roger >conjectures. /And I think Rush did some of their earliest work about >now, although I generally preferred their later stuff. might be >around.../ Roland _smiles._ /You ARE my son. Although, IMHO, Rush has always run hot and lukewarm--when they're good, they're sprocking incredible, but when they're not they're just okay. As opposed to VH, which goes all over the place. /Enough musical chairs, though. We need to start tracking Rassilon Khan, and time, pardon the phrase, is on his side. Anyone see any holes in my plan yet?/ ================================= Subject: Re: AAE7: Back at the Ranch-Style house On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 16:50:52 -0700 Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00010012 >Roland X Said As CAoL Message # 00009972 >>On Wed, 11 Apr 2001 17:50:32 -0700 >>Dane Said As CAoL Message # 00009963 >> >>/*"It might be desireable for me to take the place of his favorite >>toy. Thus when our opponent shows up, to destroy the child, >>protection for him will be at hand."*/ Aurora offers. /*"Modifying >>records, hacking computers, and otherwise ensuring our covers need >>not be compromised by my taking this assignment."*/ > > "Excellent idea," Roland replies. "That covers Mike for the >moment. We've got people set to monitor the area, and the 'Interpol >team' can cover tracking down Rassilon Khan." 'Agent Harmon' >chuckles. "Sounds like a Shadow villain." An instant later, a grey, stuffed, sweat-sock monkey named "Bobo" has been "stuffed" into a pocket universe for safekeeping and is replaced by Aurora. As far as the infant Michael Seven is concerned this toy is "Bobo", and "Bobo" never moved. /I'm in place. Roland, in case you are questioned by the authorities, the records I've created show that you are a Colonel in the super Secret Interpol Major Crime Prevention (as opposed to investigation) Unit. The records indicate that you answer ONLY to the Director of Interpol himself, and there are orders that you and your team be cooperated with at all costs. You have been head of the SIMCP for 10 years, and the cases your team have worked on, and the records of the team itself are documented, and stamped for the director's eyes only. If our opponent seeks these documents out, and suceeds in getting them, ANY activities that we engage in would be explainable as an ongoing investigation related to, but separate from, the incident in Biovalley that Gary Sebien was involved in. Should Gary Sebien get HIS hands on them, he would come to the same conclusions./ Aurora reports. ================================= Subject: Re: AAE 7: Picking the shot On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 21:13:32 -0700 (PDT) Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010013 >On Fri, 13 Apr 2001 11:50:23 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00010010 > >>On Thu, 12 Apr 2001 20:00:16 -0700 (PDT) >>Ziactrice Said As CAoL Message # 00010003 >> >>keeping the sunglasses, losing the sidle-sidestep martial arts >>relaxed crouch walk for a 'tougher than you' big guy walk, and >>you'll do nicely. Right now, you look more like second ring assassin >>take-out role than bodyguard to a nutty photographer and a gaggle of >>model-type girls. > > Eric manages not to scowl, but the effort shows. "The sunglasses >hold jade used for some chi effects. 'Second ring.' Hrm." Zia looks incredulous at him. She didn't know he had no familiarity with such operations, and she tries to explain: >>Er, I mean, you look more like the one who is _not seen_ more than >>one whois meant to be seen so as to intimidate too-friendly male >>locals. Although I haven't really seen how the tough guys dress here >>yet. Let's check." > > Eric sighs, then straightens. Only now, as he deliberately >stiffens his stance, would most people realize just how _fluid_ he is >most of the time. He lets the scowl show, on purpose in this case, >and it makes an almost invisible scar from the bottom of his left eye >to the corner of his mouth show luridly. He folds his arms. > "Better?" Zia throws her hands up, in a 'I give up' gesture. "No." She says, complying with that damnable curse for truth of hers. "Unless you're planning as appearing as a terrorist or pirate, you've not made your appearance much more congruent. Should I just shut up? I thought you wanted honest advice; you did ask _me_." She stops abruptly, as it dawns on her. Has she ever told Eric about that curse? She doesn't make a point of mentioning it too often, trying to keep it as tight a secret as possible, after all... > Another group of people would be getting chills. 8^) Zia's immune to that sort of intimidation, it would seem. Or she is so distracted trying to remember if Eric even knows how he put her between a rock and a hard place by asking if that was better that she isn't noticing. >>Zia gives him a sideglance about that 'what I know of your talents'. >>Could _Eric_ be indulging in innuedo? She decides he is. Then she >>decides not to discourage that. Especially in her direction. > > Eric regards the return gaze curiously, apparently uncertain of >its meaning. Zia's eyebrow rises slightly. Now THAT is more than the usual male-oblivious reaction. She might need to get a clue-by-four... >>"Ah, true. No shopping until later. I'll wander around and see what >>some soft-shadowtwisting can accomplish. Just decide it's probably >>there is a great angle or light somewhere around that will work out >>conveniently to our purpose." > > Eric nods. "I would like to know if you are aware of any >similarity between your powers and that of the 'mages' on my world, >if it wouldn't be prying." > /=He learns fast,=/ Mew sends with a giggle. > Eric sighs (tm Seosaidh)... "I don't mind talking about my powers in most respects. But I can answer that only if I knew what the powers of these so-called 'mages' of your homeworld were. Want to give me some info?" Finding another good spot in front of a fountain in a little flowerbed, she tries the light meter again. Her voice is mildly curious, but somewhat distracted with her task. Her work with it is methodical, but slow, and she concentrates MUCH harder than Eric expects. Apparently, she really IS not so well-versed with machinery and gadgets. =================================