Sunday, February 19, 2017

Crusade: Looks like an Inside Job! - Issue 29

When StrikeForce landed the Crusader Shuttle the Sanza National Airport, they were quickly located by Lieutenant Nash.


A man of above average qualities with no outstanding attributes, he pulled an official looking vehicle with the Sanza city seal on the side up to the curb of the sidewalk outside the main door of the airport terminal. He introduced himself, explained that he had been sent to pick up the heroes and asked them to join him in the van he was driving.

Once the Crusaders are in the van, Nash again stressed the importance of keeping a lid on the events in the Everglades. The van took the Crusaders to the military chemical warfare technology facility which was hidden in the Everglades outside of Sanza.

At the base, Nash stopped the van outside the main gate so he could show them the government’s projected sequence of event of the crime. At the fence they were met by a member of the Super Forces. Adamas immediately recognized him. It was Ground Pounder.  

Standing next to Ground Pounder was Hector Ramirez.

 He was one of the two men that wore Ground Pounder super suit. Adamas knew that meant that Josh Stevens was in Ground Pounder right now. By having two soldiers skilled in using the 18 foot tall super suit the Super Forces could have Ground Pounder on active duty around the clock. It appeared they were currently doing that to protect the base since its perimeter was breach.

Hector greeted Lt Nash and the Crusaders.

Adamas greeted Josh and Hector warmly.

“Glad you made it Hector,” Lt Nash said, “I was about to lead them the sequence of events”

“Sounds good Nash, let’s proceed”.

The two men took the Crusaders through the ripped section of electric fence and then onward to the crushed side of the chemical storage building. Ramirez informed the Crusaders that it had been determined that an explosion of dynamite could not be responsible for the gaping hole in the structure. Once inside, they were shown there were great smears of swamp mud splashed over the entire floor of the building. Many of the remaining chemical containers have similar muddy smears. Within some of the smears are the footprints of some unknown person wearing boots. One guard had been killed. There was nothing extraordinary about the bullet that killed him. Hector Ramirez informed the team that it has been determined that nothing else of importance has been found.

As he listened to the description, Adamas would be scanning the “Mud Splashes”, the downed fence, and the damaged walls.  “They must have known what they were looking for, it doesn’t appear they were just trying to wreck the place,” Adamas stated.  “How could they know what was going on here?”

Manta Man said, “Maybe they had someone on the inside providing them information?”

They are informed they will be allowed to perform their own investigation on the base. Hector will need to accompany them to make sure that the military personnel don’t hinder their efforts.

Lt Nash stated he would be waiting back on the road in the van. He will drive them to any other location they desire but of course they could strike out into the swamp on their own. Lt Nash explain that the only unusual activity occurring outside the based is that some of the Indians from a nearby reservation have been scene sneaking around late at night not far from the base. He can’t imagine how they could have done it but he hasn’t visited the reservation in a long while either.

Adamas was also scanning the swamp, to ensure they were not being watched, while listening to the two men’s description of the events.

Adamas saw that they were being watched by 3 Seminole Indians. While they were well hidden they couldn’t hide from Adamas’ super eye sight.

"Adamas, Black Orchid, I would like for us to examine the areas in question with our senses to determine if we can find some clues that others may have missed." StrikeForce said.

Their search revealed a coin imbedded in one of the walls a coin. After they removed it they notice the coin wasn’t American. It was a German Deutschmark.

StrikeForce used his knowledge of superheroes and supervillians to determine that the embedded coin was the trademark of Doctor Velo. Using his satellite link up, he searched anything that seem relevant. He discovered that Doctor Velo had a chemical background and had attempted to evaporate the entire water supply of Germany. Blitzkrieg of the New Super Society had uncovered Doctor Velo’s plans. Currently Doctor Velo was in custody of the German police waiting trial. Doctor Velo’s entire legal defense was build around his not being the real Doctor Velo but that the real Doctor Velo had framed him and escaped to America.

Adamas speaking to their liaison, "What about any security monitoring of the perimeter or base, could we receive access to any that you have?”

“Yes, you are welcome to look through them,” said Hector, “Unfortunately they were disabled as the break in occurred.”

Manta Man asked, “Have you been able to identify who did that?”

“No.”

Adamas asked, “What items were taken, we may be able to track them by that."

Lieutenant Nash replied, “Experimental chemicals. If they are tried to be sold anywhere in the world, we will know it and stop it before it occurs. I am more worried if they don’t try to sell it.”

Judging by what he had seen so far, StrikeForce believed that the responsible person/person escaped through the swamp. The footprints and mud splashes supported that hypothesis; he tracked them to the swamp where it appeared the thieves boarded a boat.

Adamas asked to know a little bit more about the Indian village, general population, historical interactions with the base, persons of interest, anything like that.

Lieutenant Nash said, “The Indian Village was a small reservation that was granted to a small group of Seminole Indians in 1919, despite the fact that very few Seminoles lived here. The Government went further to set up a small hospital and store for the care and benefit of the Indians. This hospital care are was once government run, but has been run by a local Seminole Doctor returned to the reservation after earning his medical credentials so as to provide care for his family and friends.”

“The village population is only twenty-five men, nineteen women, and fifteen children. There are from time to time archeologists, historians, and activists staying on the reservation. I don’t know if there is anyone there now or not but it rate when there isn’t.”

Hector answered the next question, “according to the base commander, the Indians are never allowed on base but they are allowed to walk nearby. There have been times in the past that he has sent Medical Corpsmen to assist with the hospital when it is short staffed. Currently there aren’t any Corpsmen assisting. The base also sends surplus medical supplies. Since medical supplies to expire, when they are using less than planned that is when it is declared surplus. Currently Gunnery Sgt. Leo McAlister is delivering supplies today. It is cheaper and more efficient to give it to the reservation then ship back to the main Supply Depot in North Carolina.”

“The only villagers of note are the new Doctor, Dean Nay and the Village Shaman. His name is Rolock.

<Turns and Actions due Mar 5th >

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StrikeForce will use his knowledge of superheroes and supervillians to help determine if there are any similarities to any known person or groups that could be involved. Using his satellite link up, he will search for any organizations that seem relevant.

Speaking to their liaison, "What about any security monitoring of the perimeter or base, could we receive access to any that you have? What items were taken, we may be able to track them by that."

"Adamas, Black Orchid, I would like for us to examine the areas in question with our senses to determine if we can find some clues that others may have missed."

Judging by what he has seen so far, StrikeForce believes that the responsible person/person escaped through the swamp. If the evidence supports that hypothesis, he will want to attempt to track them.


OOC:StrikeForce will support whatever decision that the team makes.

Jamey
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IC: Adamas greeted Josh and Hector warmly.  As he listened to the description, he would be scanning the “Mud Splashes”, the downed fence, and the damaged walls.   He’d also be scanning the swamp, to ensure they were not being watched, while listening to the two men’s description of the events.

“They must have known what they were looking for, it doesn’t appear they were just trying to wreck the place,” he stated.  “How could they know what was going on here?”

He’d also like to know a little bit more about the Indian village, general population, historical interactions with the base, persons of interest, anything like that.

Jon
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Crusade: Investigation in the Everglades - Issue 28

Dr Avery opened a portal for what could be the last time for his friends.

They stepped through and into Crusader Citadel. Manta Man greeted them. He took them to the computer room where he introduced and granted them access to TEACHER, their computer system, a near-sentient computer of ultra-advanced design.

“Unfortunately none of the other Crusaders are able to join us. The others are trying to reestablish their personal lives or haven’t overcome the effects of the invasion. So it will be the 4 of us.”

Manta Man, Adamas, Black Orchid, and StrikeForce boarded the Crusader shuttle. Manta Man contacted the Governor of Florida.

The Governor told them, “Three days ago, a supposedly secret military installation in the Florida Everglades was broken into. There are very few clues on who was responsible or even on how the existence of the base was discovered. There are, however, some very puzzling facts which you could investigate once you get here.”

“Please, do not notify the news media or the general public as we wish to keep the nature of the theft which occurred under wraps. Please go to Sanza, Florida as quickly as possible, for delays in uncovering the culprit or culprits responsible could be disastrous”

Manta Man gave communicators to the other heroes. “StrikeForce sit up front with me. I would like to teach how to fly the shuttle. Black Orchid if you sit over there you can interface with TEACHER as we are in route. Adamas, you also have cellular communication ability from that panel next to where you are sitting as well.”

Black Orchid, with TEACHER, researched Sanza, Florida. There is a military installation there but what kind isn’t available. It is in the Everglades, near an Indian Reservation. A village was not far. Aerial views showed several islands and a burial mound. The vegetation was dense as expected for a swamp but the combination of satellite imagery with both ultraviolet and infrared the land masses were able to be identified.

Adamas contacted the Super Forces. He greeted former teammate Semper Fi, asking if the General was available. Semper Fi was sure the General would be able to spare the time for a former Forcer. General Wilson E Samuel was soon on the comms.

“What can I do for you Adamas?” Adamas explained the Governor’s request and asked if he can shed any light on the situation.

“Yes, I think I can. Outside of Sanza, Florida you say?”

“That would be a U.S. Army chemical Warfare Technology Facility. We created several of those hidden locations during the invasion. We were desperately trying to come up with something to stop those Demons or convince them the Earth wasn’t worth having so they would turn around and go home.”

“I have pulled up the situation report. It was a straight smash and grab. Whoever it was ripped out a section of the electrical fence and then crushed the side of the chemical storage building. That is all I can tell you over the unsecured comms.”

“Lieutenant Donald Nash is waiting for you and will be your liaison with the civilians. He is a good officer and you can trust him. We have worked with him on several occasions”

“Godspeed Adamas, glad to see you are handling this one. Over and out”

Adamas shared the information with his teammates, and recommended they go directly to the base to begin gathering information.

StrikeForce concurred with Adamas. "I would rather head to the base first to gather Intel first. Adamas, since you already have a relationship established, why don't you take point when we arrive. Is there any information on protocol when dealing with your friends? I would hate to step on any toes."

Manta Man stated protocol would be for a liaison from both the Florida police force and the military would be provided to us.

Adamas looked to his new team, “I reached out to my old Super Forces contacts to see if anyone would be available to escort us.  This sounds like something one of them might be either involved in, or be aware of.  They are generally pretty understanding as far as not following protocol than other branches as a lot of the members are either new to this planet or don’t come from a military background… Some do, but I don’t think it’s the norm.  They took me in when I could barely communicate and helped me to assimilate to this world.  I have a lot of good memories of my time with them.”

Seeing that it was a much smaller group gave The Black Orchid a moment's pause, but then she thought on what she's been able to accomplish with these heroes over a very short time and was reassured. "Thank you for your trust in us, Manta Man. We will not let you down."

Adamas informed the team that Lt Donald Nash from the Sanza police force will me them at the municipal airport. The military didn’t want the Crusader Shuttle to land on the base in case it was under surveillance by the thieves.

Annie heard the bit about the demon's attack and sucked in her breath. When the conversation was done, she addressed the others. "This certainly doesn't sound good. It sounds like someone was making a planetary 'poison pill.' If someone did know about this and was able to steal it, the potential for global blackmail is enormous. Fortunately I know a thing or two about secret government research facilities, so there are probably some similarities we can take advantage of.


Black Orchid had Adamas request an aerial photo of the base. She pointed out the types of facilities and their purposes to the team.

As was typical of The Black Orchid, when she started thinking of plans and actions her voice sped up a little. "Let me evaluate their attack based on the description and anything we can get on the specifications for the facilities. At first pass it smells like an inside job. Also, in the vicinity must be records of purchases at food, hardware stores and the like that can give us a sense of the size and function of the operation. They do a good job of hiding their tracks, but we can use the government's adherence to protocol to our advantage. What do you all think?"

Adamas looked at Black Orchid with a renewed appreciation, “It sounds like maybe you should be taking the lead on this investigation.  I’ll be happy to introduce you to my contacts, but subterfuge and stealth have never been my forte, and I wouldn’t have a clue how to do half of the things you just mentioned.”

StrikeForce concurred on Black Orchid taking point. He offered any pertinent skills that he had.

The Black Orchid almost blushed and said, "Well, thank you both for your confidence. There is much we all can do. Adamas, how soon can we get in touch with your contacts?"

"I have made initial contact; Lt Donald Nash will be meeting us when we arrive.  I'm not sure who that will be," Adamas replied

When StrikeForce landed the Crusader Shuttle the Sanza National Airport, they were quickly located by Lieutenant Nash.


A man of above average qualities with no outstanding attributes, he pulled an official looking vehicle with the Sanza city seal on the side up to the curb of the sidewalk outside the main door of the airport terminal. He introduced himself, explained that he had been sent to pick up the heroes and asked them to join him in the van he was driving.

Once the Crusaders are in the van, Nash again stressed the importance of keeping a lid on the events in the Everglades. The van took the Crusaders to the military chemical warfare technology facility which was hidden in the Everglades outside of Sanza.

At the base, Nash stopped the van outside the main gate so he could show them the government’s projected sequence of event of the crime. At the fence they were met by a member of the Super Forces. Adamas immediately recognized him. It was Ground Pounder.  

Standing next to Ground Pounder was Hector Ramirez.


He was one of the two men that wore Ground Pounder super suit. Adamas knew that meant that Josh Stevens was in Ground Pounder right now. By having two soldiers skilled in using the 18 foot tall super suit the Super Forces could have Ground Pounder on active duty around the clock. It appeared they were currently doing that to protect the base since its perimeter was breach.

Hector greeted Lt Nash and the Crusaders. “Glad you made it Hector,” Lt Nash said, “I was about to lead them the sequence of events”

“Sounds good Nash, let’s proceed”.

The two men took the Crusaders through the ripped section of electric fence and then onward to the crushed side of the chemical storage building. Ramirez informed the Crusaders that it had been determined that an explosion of dynamite could not be responsible for the gaping hole in the structure. Once inside, they were shown there were great smears of swamp mud splashed over the entire floor of the building. Many of the remaining chemical containers have similar muddy smears. Within some of the smears are the footprints of some unknown person wearing boots. One guard had been killed. There was nothing extraordinary about the bullet that killed him. Hector Ramirez informed the team that it has been determined that nothing else of importance has been found.

They are informed they will be allowed to perform their own investigation on the base. Hector will need to accompany them to make sure that the military personnel don’t hinder their efforts.

Lt Nash stated he would be waiting back on the road in the van. He will drive them to any other location they desire but of course they could strike out into the swamp on their own. Lt Nash explain that the only unusual activity occurring outside the based is that some of the Indians from a nearby reservation have been scene sneaking around late at night not far from the base. He can’t imagine how they could have done it but he hasn’t visited the reservation in a long while either.

<Turns and Actions due Feb 5th >

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Tom,

Adamas will share the information with his team mates, and recommend they go directly to the base to begin gathering information.

For his level up, I’m a little confused on his Heightened Initiative.  Does the initiative bonus apply to all attacks, but the +5 to hit only applies to HTH? I might want to buy off that limitation if it is one… and it looks like I’ve still got a level six advancement held…  With that I was thinking about buying off his prejudice… He’s been around awhile now, and after saving the planet a couple of times… maybe people are getting the idea that he’s not one of the bad guys.

My thoughts, let me know what you think,

Jon
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Buying off the prejudice makes sense.  He has been here long enough to understand Earth's customs.

Yes the +5 from initiative applies only to HTH. If you want to buy off the limitation, I think we can do that

Regards
Tom
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Done and done.  On to the adventure.

Jon
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StrikeForce concurs with Adamas. "I would rather head to the base first to gather Intel first. Adamas, since you already have a relationship established, why don't you take point when we arrive. Is there any information on protocol when dealing with your friends? I would hate to step on any toes."

Jamey
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IC: Adamas looks to his new team, “I’ll reach out to my old Super Forces contacts to see if anyone would be available to escort us.  This sounds like something one of them might be either involved in, or be aware of.  They are generally pretty understanding as far as not following protocol than other branches as a lot of the members are either new to this planet or don’t come from a military background… Some do, but I don’t think it’s the norm.  They took me in when I could barely communicate and helped me to assimilate to this world.  I have a lot of good memories of my time with them.”

OC: So it’s to the base first to get a feel for what’s going on, and what we should be about.

Jon
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seeing that it is is a much smaller group gives The Black Orchid a moment's pause, but then she thinks on what she's been able to accomplish with these heroes over a very short time and is reassured. "Thank you for your trust in us, Manta Man. We will not let you down."
----
Annie hears the bit about the demon's attack and sucks in her breath. When the conversation is done, she addresses the others. "This certainly doesn't sound good. It sounds like someone was making a planetary 'poison pill.' If someone did know about this and was able to steal it, the potential for global blackmail is enormous. Fortunately I know a thing or two about secret government research facilities, so there are probably some similarities we can take advantage of (Adept at Govt/Bureaucracy, Specialist in Business and Engineering, Teacher in Research and Technology)."

As is typical of The Black Orchid, when she starts thinking of plans and actions her voice speeds up a little. "Let me evaluate their attack based on the description and anything we can get on the specifications for the facilities. At first pass it smells like an inside job. Also, in the vicinity must be records of purchases at food, hardware stores and the like that can give us a sense of the size and function of the operation. They do a good job of hiding their tracks, but we can use the government's adherence to protocol to our advantage. What do you all think?"

OOC: Thanks Tom for the advancement and feel free to provide as much or as little information as you want based on her skills noted above.)  Good to be back in the saddle!

Marc
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Adamas looks at Black Orchid with a renewed appreciation, “It sounds like maybe you should be taking the lead on this investigation.  I’ll be happy to introduce you to my contacts, but subterfuge and stealth have never been my forte, and I wouldn’t have a clue how to do half of the things you just mentioned.”

Jon
----------------------------------------------------------------------
StrikeForce will concur on Black Orchid taking point. He will offer any pertinent skills that he has.

Jamey
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The Black Orchid almost blushes and says, "Well, thank you both for your confidence. There is much we all can do. Adamas, how soon can we get in touch with your contacts?"

Marc
----------------------------------------------------------------------
"I have made initial contact; someone will be meeting us when we arrive.  I'm not sure who that will be," He replies.

Jon
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Crusade: Team up with the Crusaders! - Issue 27

Once again all the heroes came to the Mansion at Doctor Arcane's request. Dr Avery announced he was no longer the Sorcerer Supreme of Earth. He had all the amulets returned to him. He offered to allow anyone to stay at his house as his and Donnah's guests as long as they like but he would now be retired.

All the heroes said their goodbyes to each and only Adamas, Black Orchid, and StrikeForce decided to stay for dinner that night. As they were eating Jessica Anderson suddenly appeared in great hall.

Jessica said "The Governor of Florida has contacted me. He needs licensed super hero help but it can't be just any heroes. When he told me what skills were required I knew it was you three. Will you help?"

After agreeing to help Dr Avery reminded Black Orchid that she was still an active CHESS agent so she can reach them for transportation and support.

Adamas mentioned he once was a member of the Super Forces branch of the Military. He could contact them for transportation and support.

StrikeForce reminded that Manta Man was still recruiting members to the Crusaders. Maybe they should contact him to see if they would provide transportation and support.

The Black Orchid, upon hearing the others said "I am just recently a field agent for CHESS, so I'm not sure how much pull I have. I like of the idea of the Crusaders, especially if there is a need for collaboration between the two. I could be 'on loan' to the Crusaders from CHESS, if that works. In addition to transportation, do we have fairly unrestricted searching capabilities? Ideally we could do such searching en route to Florida and hit the ground with appropriate intel.

Thinking on it, The Black Orchid mused out loud, "Who we contact for travel/research assistance may depend on the nature of the problem in Florida. Jessica, is there anything you can tell us about the situation or is it still too hush-hush?"

Jessica said she told them all that she knew.

Doctor Avery listened quietly. "I think I can help you with that".  He made a call on his phone.  After a few minutes he returned Doctor said "I contacted Manta Man. He would be glad to help. We agreed that I could open a portal in the Citadel.”

“If you need that care of first; let me know when you want to enter the portal and I will open it.”

As Dinner was winding down, StrikeForce stood and lightly tapped his silverware against his glass. Addressing those assembled around the table. "Ladies and Gentlemen, if I may have your attention. I wanted to take this opportunity to propose a toast to our host. Dr. Avery also known as Dr. Arcane, The world owes you its thanks for your years of service. I pray that your retirement is peaceful and full of joy." Raising his glass, he finished with. "To Doctor Arcane."

Everyone agreed and drank in toast to Doctor Arcane

Later he spoke with Dr. Avery alone. "Doc, you have given the world so much. It sucks to see you in this chair. Please take this number and speak to Kurt Miller. If there is some way he can aid your situation he will. Tell him you are a friend of mine."

“Thank you kindly friend while either science or magic is capable of removing this limitation it would only be a substitute that pales to truly being as I was before. Thank you but not thanks I have accepted my condition.”

StrikeForce replied to Dr. Avery, "I really need to contact my father and run a diagnostic test before I go."

When StrikeForce finished he returned to the mansion where Adamas and Black Orchid were waiting.

Dr Avery opened a portal for what could be the last time for his friends.

They stepped through and into Crusader Citadel.


Manta Man greeted them. He took them to the computer room where he introduced and granted them access to TEACHER, their computer system, a near-sentient computer of ultra-advanced design.

“Unfortunately none of the other Crusaders are able to join us. The others are trying to reestablish their personal lives or haven’t overcome the effects of the invasion. So it will be the 4 of us.”

Manta Man, Adamas, Black Orchid, and StrikeForce boarded the Crusader shuttle. Manta Man contacted the Governor of Florida.

He told them, “Three days ago, a supposedly secret military installation in the Florida Everglades was broken into. There are very few clues on who was responsible or even on how the existence of the base was discovered. There are, however, some very puzzling facts which you could investigate once you get here.”

“Please, do not notify the news media or the general public as we wish to keep the nature of the theft which occurred under wraps. Please go to Sanza, Florida as quickly as possible, for delays in uncovering the culprit or culprits responsible could be disastrous”

Manta Man gave communicators to the other heroes. “StrikeForce sit up front with me. I would like to teach how to fly the shuttle. Black Orchid if you sit over there you can interface with TEACHER as we are in route. Adamas, you also have cellular communication ability from that panel next to where you are sitting as well.”

Black Orchid with TEACHER research Sanza, Florida. There is a military installation there but what kind isn’t available. It is in the Everglades, near an Indian Reservation. A village is not far. Aerial views showed several islands and a burial mound. The vegetation was dense as expected for a swamp but the combination of satellite imagery with both ultraviolet and infrared the land masses were able to be identified.

Adamas contacted the Super Forces. He greeted former teammate Semper Fi, asking if the General was available. Semper Fi was sure the General would be able to spare the time for a former Forcer. General Wilson E Samuel was soon on the comms.

“What can I do for you Adamas?” Adamas explained the Governor’s request and asked if he can shed any light on the situation.

“Yes, I think I can. Outside of Sanza, Florida you say?”

“That would be a U.S. Army chemical Warfare Technology Facility. We created several of those hidden locations during the invasion. We were desperately trying to come up with something to stop those Demons or convince them the Earth wasn’t worth having so they would turn around and go home.”

“I have pulled up the situation report. It was a straight smash and grab. Whoever it was ripped out a section of the electrical fence and then crushed the side of the chemical storage building. That is all I can tell you over the unsecured comms.”

“Lieutenant Donald Nash is waiting for you and will be your liaison. He is a good soldier and you can trust him”

“Godspeed Adamas, glad to see you are handling this one. Over and out”

<Turns and Actions due Jan 9th >

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I was wondering what location the team would return to. I need to know so that I can write my reply. I was wondering who will be with us going forward.


Thanks,
Jamey
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It will be in Megalopolis, assume at Dr. Arcane's house

Best
Tom
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Great issue Tom. I would like to continue playing. Earth villains would be my preference. StrikeForce would pursue the avenues I conveyed to you earlier. I will do a write-up on him soon.

Jamey
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Appearing inside the Avery mansion, StrikeForce will look around and observe his surroundings. He will perform a satellite uplink to determine the time, date, and his G.P.S. location. He will use his current location to plot his route home. He will talk to anyone who seems interested. When the conversation dies down, he will excuse himself and head home. Before leaving, he will tell the team "Contact me if you need me."

StrikeForce will use his staff trial home as quickly as possible. After ensuring that the coast is clear, he will jump upon the roof, and enter through the skylight, using the thumb print scanner to gain access. Grabbing a shower and putting on his street clothes. He will place his gear into a gym bag and head to the lab for a diagnostic test on his gear and himself. Taking his motorcycle, Jason will enjoy the short ride over.

Finding his father at the lab, Jason will give him a rundown on what happened while he was gone. "How are you?" His father asks. "Dad", he replies, "When I am StrikeForce, it is when I am most relaxed. Between being frozen for five years while you worked on a way to bring me back, and everyone's life moving forward without me, it seems that I don't know where I fit in." Following his check-up; Jason will head home.

Jamey
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I need to know if you are going to continue playing or not. So far only Jamey (StrikeForce) has said he is. Please let me know.

Thanks
Tom
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Sorry Thomas, Adamas will continue as long as you do. ;)

I'll try to respond by Monday if that works for you.

My sons having a birthday party sleepover tonight, so the weekend is pretty much tied up with that.

Jon
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Hi Tom,

Yes I am still interested (even though I always seem to be late), I am enjoying it a great deal!

- Marc
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Tom,

I can’t believe it’s been almost a month… hopefully you were thinking you just didn’t receive my response with your email issues, but I’m afraid that’s not the case.

Hope you guys had a happy Halloween!

We’ve had a crazy month… two birthday parties, my daughter gave birth to my third grandchild, and football season is rapidly coming to a close.  This week is the last week of games, so I’ll get two nights a week back, which sounds great, but at the same time I’ll miss going to the games. J parenthood is such a mixed blessing as I know you understand.  You want them to grow up, but it happens all too fast.  Really realizing this as I start to see my daughter’s kids starting to grow up… They seem so small and young, then she has a baby, and you realize how big the others are… when did that happen?  Anyway, enough waxing philosophical.  Back to The Quest. J

Adamas actions would be:

1)      Bid farewell to his new team mates if they are not returning to “his” Earth. 

2)      Shepard those that are returning back, I’m guessing we’d head back to Sanctuary Hills give updates to Doctor Arcane.  I’m guessing Agent America is going for good now, so that farewell will need to happen, glad we got some closure there.

3)      Get back to Jessica, and catch up on what’s been happening (how long were we gone?  I think time was different there, but I can’t remember which way it went, faster or slower)

I’ll be happy to do write-ups for each of these if you can give me the individuals in each group… who’s going, who’s staying, and who’s saying good bye, as well as the timeline while we’ve been away.

Apologies for this late response, and I’ll try to do better with my new free time (until it gets filled with new events… I don’t think I have any basketball players, but I’m sure other events will rush in to fill the void!

Jon
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Thanks. I have been trying to figure out what to do next as we close the Quest and move on the next phase.

Best
Tom
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Tom,

Found this in my draft’s… thought I’d sent it.

That was a big one… had to follow up, it’s like one of the big cross-over events, then returning to… less cosmic events. J I remember after the Secret Wars, they had to “nerf” all of the heroes to get them back to their pre-Power Cosmic levels.  Specifically, I remember Iron Man blowing the top of a mountain off using his repulsors…

I don’t think we have that problem, but I understand where you are coming from… One of the things I’ve seen Jeff J. do is to do a short series of individual adventures to get things back in perspective… It goes towards the heroes having their own lives, and the reasons they do what they do, I know that’s hard to do with a lot of people, and is probably a lot more work for you, but it’s a thought.

I’m OK with whatever you decide; it doesn’t have to be a space

Jon
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I hope that all is well with you. If you are able to, and feel like it, I was wondering about what your assessment of StrikeForce is? Do you have any opinions on what his advancement should be?

Thanks,
Jamey
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It has been very busy. My son turned 16 today. Last weekend we spent celebrating. Now I am going on travel for work for the rest of the week.

StrikeForce is a very well structured character. I am having difficulty thinking of a level advancement too. I will think more this week and get back to you.

Best
Tom
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OOC: I am sorry I have been so late in getting the next issue done. I am way overdue and for that I apologize. I will be going on my last business trip of the year this week so that will help things settle down in my life.

IC: As everyone has gathered at Doctor Avery's to celebrate
     o the completion of the Quest,
     o the transformation of the Natural Forces back into their human selves
     o stopping the invasion of the Domain, the sober feeling of change floated through the house. They spend the next month getting the private lives back in order and well as visiting friends and family.

Does Black Orchid give the Scythe to Dr Arcane or F.I.S.H.?

Once again all the heroes came to the Mansion at Dr Arcane's request. Doctor Avery announced he was no longer the Sorcerer Supreme of Earth. He had all the amulets returned to him. He offered to allow anyone to stay at his house as his and Donna's guests as long as they like but he would now be retired.

All the heroes said their goodbyes to each and only Adamas, Black Orchid, and Strikeforce decided to stay for dinner that night. As they were eating Jessica Anderson suddenly appeared in great hall.

Jessica said "The Governor of Florida has contacted me. He needs licensed super hero help but it can't be just any heroes. When he told me what skills were required I knew it was you three. Will you help?"

After agreeing to help Black Orchid reminded everyone that she is still an active CHESS agent so she can reach them for transportation and support.

Adamas mentioned he once was a member of the Super Forces branch of the Miltiary. He could contact them for transportation and support.

StrikeForce reminded that Manta Man was still recruiting members to the Crusaders. Maybe they should contact him to see if they would provide transportation and support.

Which do you pick? Do you go straight to Florida to meet the Governor or do research first?

GM Note: Which you choose will provide me my supply of NPCs for your characters beyond the ones in your back story. It will give you a base and access to special equipment and other resources.

You don't have to choose any of the 3 options; you could go it "alone". I would need to know if you will create your own base or go without one. Technology is such that personal cell phones with Bluetooth ear pieces can work for comms. I would also need to know how you would get to Florida. Adamas does have the necessary strength to carry everyone.

Please take this week to discuss with each other and let me know

Thanks

Tom
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Adamas is OK with Chess or the Crusaders… leaning towards the Crusaders, I mean c’mon who doesn’t want to work with the Crusaders…

OOC: Only three players, wow! From a world cross over event with what seemed like 50 heroes, this will be a day in the park for you. J

Jon
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StrikeForce would prefer The Crusaders option. I agree with Adamas (Jon), The Crusaders option has that "cool" factor.


OOC: Tom, we know that real life takes precedence over the game. But, thanks for all the work you put into the game. It is appreciated.

OOC: Jon and Marc, I would also say that it is a privilege to game with you as well. All of you make this so much fun.

Thanks,
Jamey
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StrikeForce would prefer to have someone Intel on the situation. Not that he wouldn't help, but he likes to know what he is walking into.

Jamey
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The Black Orchid, upon hearing the others says "I am just recently a field agent for CHESS, so I'm not sure how much pull I have. I like of the idea of the Crusaders, especially if there is a need for collaboration between the two. I could be 'on loan' to the Crusaders from CHESS, if that works. In addition to transportation, do we have fairly unrestricted searching capabilities? Ideally we could do such searching en route to Florida and hit the ground with appropriate intel."



Relevant NPCs -

Goro Kokuran - father - Patent Lawyer - Fox & Geis Law firm (semi-retired)
Eleanor (Ellie) Paige - mother - Special Lecturer, Mathematics and Physics - Our Fair City High School (current)
Unknown - benefactor - paid for "fast-tracked" Hallowed Hills education - status unknown
Robert Haskins - classmate - Blog reporter - engscitech.com (current)
Aasiya Matan - classmate - Pharmacology Professor - Hallowed Hills University (currently on sabbatical)
Dmitri Stolyanov - colleague - Biomechanics researcher - National RoboDynamics Corporation (either current or former)
Veena Balasubramanian - colleague - AI software developer - National RoboDynamics Corporation (either current or former)

Marc
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LOL, that Relevant NPC list is almost a background in and of itself!

Impressive.  Adamas only has his Hallowed Hills buddies, and Jessica… I could probably come up with some commanders/co-workers… I think we’ve mentioned before, he’s familiar with some of the other “known” aliens in Tom’s world.

Jon
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Thanks! I just expanded on her background to come up with a few names. I did make a mistake though. Her mother is a teacher at Our Fair City High School, NOT University.

Marc
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I agree, that is quite a list. If we could get the information in route that would be cool. We still need to reach out to Manta-Man.

Jamey
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Thinking on it, The Black Orchid muses out loud, "Who we contact for travel/research assistance may depend on the nature of the problem in Florida. Jessica, is there anything you can tell us about the situation or is it still too hush-hush?"

OOC: I too have enjoyed gaming with you guys and I apologize for the times that I dropped off the map for a while, but I like this group of characters and want to see things keep going.

Marc
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Doctor Avery listened quietly. "I think I can help you with that".  He made a call on his phone.  After a few minutes he returned Doctor said "I contacted Manta Man. He would be glad to help. We agreed that I could open a portal in the Citadel.”

If you need that care of first; let me know when you want to enter the portal and I will open it.

Tom
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As Dinner is winding down, StrikeForce will stand and lightly tap his silverware against his glass. Addressing those assembled around the table. "Ladies and Gentlemen, if I may have your attention. I wanted to take this opportunity to propose a toast to our host. Dr. Avery also known as Dr. Arcane, The world owes you it's thanks for your years of service. I pray that your retirement is peaceful and full of joy." Raising his glass, he finishes with. "To Doctor Arcane."


Later he will attempt to speak with Dr. Avery alone. "Doc, you have given the world so much. It sucks to see you in this chair. Please take this number and speak to Kurt Miller. If there is some way he can aid your situation he will. Tell him you are a friend of mine."

Jamey
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StrikeForce replies to Dr. Avery, "I really need to contact my father and run a diagnostic test before I go."

Jamey
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If I took a stat increase for a level advancement, how much would it be? I had been thinking that if I increased his intelligence it would up his detects for both hidden and danger, and would allow him some more skills such as pilot, which would help the team.

For later levels while getting rid of his 10 percent damage repair problem or buy down some of his lightning attack damage. I was thinking that maybe allowing his staff to be used for attack/defense owing to either telekinesis or gravity control, whichever would seem more appropriate for how his leaping works. I would appreciate your thoughts on this.

Thanks,
Jamey
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Stat increase would be 7 points. So StrikeForce's intelligence would rise from 14 to 21.

On the later levels, be then we will have the new V&V 3: Mighty Protectors rules out. That will make leveling up so much easier. I will work with you at that point as we will have StrikeForce moved over to the new system.

Thanks
Tom
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Thanks Tom. What skills do you think would help the team? Pilot for sure, and what about knowledge of superheroes, and knowledge of super villains?

Jamey
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