Though he felt pulled in many directions with
the turmoil in his family The Cyborg Crusader knew that the crisis involving
Apocalypse will require his attention first. Jason took time before departing
to send texts to his father, brother, and girlfriend. The text message read, “Please
don't make any drastic decisions until I return, and we can discuss everything.”
His girlfriend replied “Okay, but don’t take too long. This is heavy on my heart.”
His dad replied, “No problem, you know I don’t make drastic decisions but well thought out and methodological decisions.”
His brother replied. “So now you are the boss of me? I know what I am doing so don’t worry about me and what I intend to do.”
StrikeForce traveled to where the group has assembled and checked back in with both his team and the Government agencies that a present to ascertain if there had been any new developments since he was last here.
Black Orchid was informed that the joint taskforce has everything under control and secure if the New Crusaders were ready to leave for Nacht Island, The New Crusaders were fully healed, even Demy was certified combat ready.
Dr. Arcane focused interrogating Shapeshifter on how and when she came to Earth. The Mistress of Magic was shocked to learn it was the first Domain Incursion and not the last one. Shapeshifter had been on the tactical team that kidnapped her as a child. Instead of returning with Hannah (yes Dr Wildman had to stop and check that he heard right. Shapeshifter knew both Dr. Arcane and the Old Dr. Arcane's secret identities) Shapeshifter stayed on the Earth. She liked this world better. It had both Prey and Predators unlike the Domain which only had Predators.
Once Dr. Arcane was satisfied that there weren't any open portals that would allow the Domain travel to the Earth's dimension, she asked how long The Destroyers worked for Pietor. Shapeshifter reacted with anger, creating fangs, as she spoke. "The Destroyers work for no one but ourselves. We have partnered with Pietor when is to both our benefit.
"What about the Isotope?" Dr. Arcane asked. "Why did Pietor want it?"
"He didn't" Shapeshifter said, "Cyberdoom needed it. Pietor wanted the Cloak. Everything would have worked out fine if it wasn't for Adamas. We had paid Bull to attack StarCorp so DarkStar would abandon his teammates for his employees. While the New Super Society was a surprise, Cyberdoom's Cyberions defeated as expected. We showed Adamas his mistake for interfering, but Cyberdoom didn't get the Isotope, but Pietor got the Cloak."
(GM Note: Quest issues 15 to 17)
"Pietor owed us and Cyberdoom. So, we decided since he owns an island, we wanted our own too."
Shapeshifter smiled, showing her fangs, "tick toc. You are on the clock. You haven't won and you really don't want to see what comes next. Give us those islands!"
StrikeForce's called the team together.
A CHESS Rook provided a set of images of Nacht Island to Erdbeben. It turned out it is a tiny group of islands that form what is now called Nacht Island. There was a topographical map available too. The map showed elevation, roads, and other information.
On the main island there is an abandoned U.S. air and naval base there. A satellite tracking station was built but never put into service by the U.S. There is a small scientific team of oceanographic investigators who maintain a small camp on the north shore of the main island.
The Island of T’PAO has a temple excavation site. Adamas and DarkStar stated that it was the Island of T'PAO that the Fellowship assisted Pietro in acquiring the jewel from the mystical forces which protected it. All the smaller islands have villages which are occupied by natives to the area.
On the planning session itself, Patty Plus
listened to everyone's comments and then piped up during a lull in the
discussion.
"It seems to me we have two choices, either mounting up like a posse and heading to the island or chasing down all these leads we've uncovered."
She looked around, giving everyone a moment of eye contact to make sure they are listening.
"I'll go with the group consensus, but do we even have enough information to charge in? Should we gather more from the leads? Would that be helpful?"
She held up a finger, as if in defense. "Let me clarify I am not saying we have to, I am just playing advocate and raising the point for consideration. It's what I do."
"Also, I personally don't like the idea of creating a storm to chase them out of their secret HQ. We know where they are, why shake things up and potentially lose track of them when they split?"
DarkStar pointed out that they could teleport to the Island. He had attempted it but there is a high-altitude force field above it. He speculated that Starbolt was working with a tech expert to project his powers that high. DarkStar knew that the force field didn’t surround the island like a bubble but it was more like an umbrella covering from Satellite and high-altitude attacks. Agent America added, “Sounds to me like they know both of your and Adamas’ favorite method of ending a battle before it begin.” There was a slight chuckle from Agent America afterwards which Adamas ignored and caused DarkStar to grimace in frustration. Once again Agent America was getting under the Cobalt Commanders skin.
{GM Note: there are too many instances to list all of them where either DarkStar or Adamas started a combat by starting at the edge of the Earth’s atmosphere then performed a power dive smashing into a Base: Crusade Issue 46, Flying Galleon: Crossover Issue 5, or Star-Devourer: Quest Issue 12}
Erdbeben showed everyone where the bay on the mail island was. “This is where the abandoned military base is. Here is the temple excavation on the island of T’PAO, here is the camp of the oceanographers and there is a personal villa, the MEDUSA believes it is Pietor’s.” He pointed at several spots on map.
“According to MEDUSA low altitude flight, aquatic; either by boat or swimming, and underwater approaches to any of the islands are viable.”
"Ok, Rubles is certified good to go so that's a good thing." Patty smiled at Rubicon, gave him a friendly thumbs up.
Demy gave Patty both a return thumbs up and a smile.
Patty said, "I think it's weird the bad guys allow oceanographers to have a base on the island, you would think they would be paranoid they were government agents keeping an eye on them or something. But whatever, I just work here. I think it's important to note that there are civilians that could be impacted if we go in too loud, both the oceanographers and these natives someone mentioned."
Demy said, "I was thinking the same thing, Patty. The indigenous people and Oceanographers are a concern. Strange to me as well that the researchers are allowed here....".
Thinking for a moment Rubicon continued: "Are we certain of these scientists are who they say they are? I mean, any chance that is a front for something? If not, do we have bios on them, so we know how many there are, names, ages, where they located on the island(s), descriptions, what university or organizations they are funded by? Is anyone in normal communications with them for supply and status report updates? If so, any chance we can utilize that as a means of accessing the island as a front too supporting them? Same with the indigenous people: how many are they, where are they, who's the leaders of both groups. We should be able to be able to establish trust and not make things harder than they need to be with these unknowns getting in the way or causing additional disruption. I'm not saying they will stab us in the back, but I'd feel more confident that either group isn't going to be factor in the mission equation."
"Aside from collateral damage I also want to know that either group isn't going to be used as human shields or taken prisoner."
Dr Arcane replied as not expecting Remy to talk over her, "It isn't Pietor's mentality to hide behind human shields. I don't know if he has a partner, but I suspect he might. He doesn't have the ability to create these robots. If Pietor was going to take them as prisoners, then they are already prisoners. Your arrival won't change the situation."
Remy said "Do we try to get either or both groups isolated prior to the attack? If so, do we try to contact them prior to ensure we can mitigate these issues? Maybe during the scouting mission find where the energy generators are, or are they magic in creation, like a spell or something? Do we need to take that out, too in case we need to call in back up?"
Before anyone can speak, he continued:
"Oh, and lastly, what about the creatures mentioned that are supposed to be protecting the island? Again: how many, what are they? We talking kaiju or smaller, magic or natural? Any Intel on how many, strengths, weaknesses, are they controlled naturally or just inherently protective of their habitat?"
Demy finally stopped for breath and, with wide eyes, blinked repeatedly at the group.
Agent America said, " If you are asking if the researchers are agents of the United States. No, they are not. Other than that, we have no reason to think they are not who they appear to be. No, we don't have bois on them. This isn't a surveillance state where all the movement of its citizens are tracked. Is this normal in your home country? I have heard bad things about the U.S.S.R but I didn't know it had reached this level. Where the Government had detailed information on every citizen and tracked their every move."
In response to Agent America, Demy scoffed and looked up while rolling his eyes and slapping his thigh.
Patty's eyes widen at Agent America's dressing down of Demy.
"Hey, wait a minute. It was a good question raised while planning a dangerous mission. To me it seems reasonable that we might have at least basic intelligence on a group of researchers operating on an island that's basically the HQ of really bad buys. Seems weird to me that they're even allowed to be there."
Agent America replied, "HQ of really bad guys? Until this week, Dr Apocalypse was considered a good guy. He assisted in the defense of Earth against the Domain. He was the apprentice of Old Dr. Arcane and assisted in the rescue of New Dr. Arcane from Occult when Occult kidnapped her and took her to the Domain Dimension. It is very possible the researchers don't even know that Dr. Pietor Apoucalos, who owns the island, and Dr. Apocalypse are the same person.
Lillith of FISH asked, "Why do you think the world thinks this is the HQ of really bad guys unless you think that all magic users and creatures of magic are bad guys. Is it possible there are magic-phobes in the room?
Patty, having enough of the bureaucratic posturing that she'd gotten her fill of in the military, rolled her eyes at Lillith. "Yes, that's *exactly* how I meant it."
"But back to the matter at hand. So, we're headed to an island that is surrounded by sea monsters and is off-limits to pretty much every country, and a dude named Apocalypse lives there."
"But since it's an island where the good guys live, we have to either sneak in or assault it."
"And" she let her gaze sweep over Agent America and Lillith, "all you folks are here to gather intelligence from our most recent mission, where we risked our lives and now you are getting valuable benefit for your agencies. So, you're making sure to show at least a minimum of respect for that, and the fact we're about to go risk our tails again."
"Did I miss anything?"
Bishop Prince raised both hand in a signal of truce and said, "Prior to this week we didn't know that Dr. Apocalypse was planning a coup of his nature. We had no idea that The Destroyers were working with him. It wasn't until yesterday that we learned the same Robot maker that helped The Destroyers in the past {GM Note Quest issues 14 to 17} made both the Doomsday Robot and Red Wing. We still don't know for sure that CyberDoom is working with Dr. Apocalypse but is capable of the Electronics Firewall that is preventing Cybil and any other Electronic or Satellite surveillance from occurring. Dr. Apocalypse isn't capable of this kind of robotic and electronic sophistication. Is it possible the researchers are working for Dr. Apocalypse? Yes. He has surprised us a lot this week. Do we have a way to find out before you go, no CHESS does not."
Before he can react, Patty had stepped in with her response. Probably a good thing...
Following her statement, Demy bit his tongue and gave himself a moment to collect himself before responding, "No, sorry, forgive my bad transition to English still. My intent wasn't whether the researchers were US Agents, although that would be good to know, too. It was whether they MIGHT be working with Dr. Apocalypse."
"And yes, the U.S.S.R. IS THAT bad. It is always assumed that the KGB has information on anyone and everyone. Just like America's own 3 letter agencies may have information (profiles?) on certain people and organizations? Forgive me if I am so naive, maybe too much Law-and-Order tv shows. It always looks like the government agencies are able to "pull a file" or do some research on some people that are of concern. I'd like not to believe it and believe me I want nothing more to be in this great country, grateful to be here, and mean no disrespect Agent America."
"I know you stand for all that is good for the country in your namesake."
DarkStar chuckled when Demy said Agent America stood for all that was good for his country. Agent America laughed too and shook his head as DarkStar's laughter grew into a full belly laugh. DarkStar spoke to prevent tears from flowing from his eyes. "The Man from MEDUSA, America's Super Spy. the Man that dragged Julian Assange to the States by the nose hairs. Yes, Agent America does represent America but not the America of the TV shows. It took the Domain Invasion to bring him into the light. The Super Forces is the only place he can serve now that he has become a famous cape".
Agent America said, "I know that TV shows like Criminal Minds have super hackers that can find anything on anybody even those that don't use computers because of credit cards, CCTV, and Ring Cameras. but there are places like Hallowed Hills which don't have does not kind of electronics everywhere. They still only use cash or rare material. There are shops in Hallowed Hills which only accept gold, silver, and copper for payment. They won't even accept the American Dollar. It is still hard to believe they are a part of Megalopolis, but they are. I have had Techomancer and DarkStar had Cybil to try to pull electronic files on the researchers but nothing. It appears they use DUCK DUCK GO and other privacy firewalls. IF you want to wait, we can continue to attempt to extract the data."
Demy paused a moment before continuing:
"But that's not my point. I’m not asking for their internet search history. I just thought that these apparent civilians may have some info that was gained so we can identify and account for them if we run into them..."
Bishop Prince said, "The scientists have never communicated with any US Agency. We don't have access to any communications they might have had with their organization. If you would like to meet with a representative of their organization, we can provide the information so you can contact them yourself. We don't know if they need support or not if you wanted to pretend that. We don't know who you should contact, and we don't know how to contact Dr. Apocalypse without him knowing who we are. All we have in the way of contact information is what he gave us to let him know when the islands were his and the people evacuated.
The hair on the back of James's neck bristle at the thought of assaulting the island and putting the civilians in danger. "Can't we pull this off without putting anybody else in danger? I mean, we were lucky that the Destroyers didn't cause debris to fall onto the street but out on an island there would be little help for anybody injured due to our actions."
"Besides that, I don't think we should make pre-contact with either group. If they've been on the island for any amount of time, Dr. Apocalypse either has them as allies or they are prisoners. In either case, they will most likely be closely monitored by Apocalypse."
DarkStar said, "No US Citizen except the Oceanographers have been on the island since the military left. Since the island is not a US island there are not any census records. Cybil can't find anything online about the indigenous people. They are luddites. They don't even have a Facebook page.
To Bishop Prince and DarkStar Demy said, "Thank you. Yes, maybe having their organizations representative name would help. We may inquire about names of those there and if they have means to contact them. Is it not a liability to our mission or a concern to us or them that we at least try to let them know they may be in harm’s way? I know there's no time for normal State Department diplomatic coordination and, we are talking about a clandestine approach, so we need to ensure we don't undermine the mission.
Bishop Prince provided Demy the contract information for the organization for the researchers. Remy spokes with marine engineer Graham Hawkes. When Dr. Apocalypse was mentioned, Mr. Hawkes asked if it was the new Supervillain that was being talked about on Unit One's broadcasts concerning the latest Cape turned bad. Weren't they calling him the Sorcerer Supreme? Mr. Hawkes then went on a long tirade about how he didn't believe in magic. He quoted Arthur C Clarke three times, saying "Magic is science we don't understand yet." When Remy redirected Hawkes back to the researchers. He said yes, we have permission from Dr. Pietor Apoucalos. He is a good customer having bought several of Graham's designs for aquatic equipment. Graham Hawkes bragged about the Deep Hawks subs. They are a one-man compact submersible designed to make dives to incredible depths. "If you can drive a car, you dive in a Deep Hawk" was the sales pitch. He asked Remy if he would like to buy some. When Remy redirected Graham back to the researchers, yet once again, he stated that he hasn't heard from them in a while but that was normal. Nacht Island is a dead zone for electronic communications. Satellite phones and devices don't work there. He expected that in another month or two, one of the researchers will leave the Island, at which time they will contact him and provide a status report. If Remy left his phone number, Hawkes said he would be sure to ask them to call Remy too.
After the call Remy said, I don't know," he looked at StrikeForce, "I defer to better experienced leadership."
Dr. Arcane said, "Don't worry about the Demons, the Cross Dimensional pathways from the Domain have been closed. So there aren't any more, except for a few like Shapeshifter which are stranded here."
To Dr. Arcane Demy said, "Ah, I see. Thank you. So, it could be shapechangers that are "the beasts" protecting the island. That could be open ended if they can take the forms if other people and beasts?" Demy asks this as a legitimate question. Demy tries to recall the file info on Shapeshifter currently in custody he read prior to the last mission. Can she change into match another human? "Hey, I hope they don't take form of one of us, no? Or the villagers or Researchers...".
Dr. Arcane corrected Demy, "Yes, a shapeshifter can become anything that has similar mass, and it knows the object in detail. If intelligent enough it can change into creatures seen only in photos or drawings. Fortunately, most shapeshifters are not that smart. Most have the intelligence of a dog or other canine species. Not all Domain demons are shapeshifters. In fact they are very few. If there was a demon on the Island when the portal closed, she would expect it would be dead. There is no way the Sorcerer Supreme, Magical Protector of Earth would allow it to live on her island." Dr. Arcane muttered a simple spell which projected a multiple of horrific creatures above their heads. It was equivalent to a 3D projection system with smell as well. Someone in the room said, "I sure hope this is science we figure out someday. I don't want smell-a-vision in my future."
There were a few floating names without pictures. Dr Arcane apologized. She couldn't remember what those demons looked like.
The names of the demons appeared under each creature except for a grotesque upright walking Walrus which showed its name of Overseer with a description of its abilities.
She looked at Adamas. "And if we DID want to go loud, this umbrella thingy prevents that, right?"
Adamas shook his head indicating “Yes”.
She shrugged. "Everything about this setup
feels like it's screaming recon first to me, then a stealth approach before any
shots are fired."
"Do we have access to a submarine or something that can sneak us close to the island?"
Manta-Man said, "Yes, I can arrange for a commercial submarine to be obtained. It won't have combat ability, but it will get you there."
StrikeForce replied to Patty Plus. "I can fly our craft in at a low altitude to get in under the umbrella of energy they have constructed, and I have reviewed the topographical information of the island to determine the best approach area to best avoid detection. Obviously, we want to not cause collateral damage to the innocent people that are there. If you want to volunteer for advanced scout, I think that you are our best option at this moment, though I would prefer that Dr. Wildman (in animal form) go with you."
Patty Said to Manta-Man: "Thanks! Although it sounds like StrikeForce might prefer to fly in. I'll let him or Black Orchid make the decision."
Bishop Prince said, "We have provided all the Intel we have. If you want more then you will need to figure out who and how you want to get more, especially how they are going to get it back to you. The Nacht Island has been cut off from World Intelligence for the last 6 months or more."
"I'm thinking we should make landfall at the furthest point away from everybody else and make our way in from there."
"Making landfall will be dependent on having adequate space to put the aircraft down. I can always let the team out and land at the closest location." StrikeForce replied.
Assuming that this goes without major incident and it all fits...
Speaking to those assembled StrikeForce said, "While I know that we have gathered information that is drawing our attention away from the biggest threat that we are currently facing. Meanwhile Dr. Apocalypse is threatening more destruction. I believe that that is where our attention should be directed." StrikeForce waited to hear what the other heroes had to say.
Dr Wildman removed the Helm of the Chimera and pulled his fingers through his hair, "sorry for the helmet hair" he apologized to no one in particular. "I'm not sure the potency of the storms and the Doomsday Robot are evidence that Pietor can technologically or supernaturally destroy the major cities as he claims, but equally I am sure a whole load of people are going to get hurt when he tries - and he will try. He's lost too much face to not play his hand now. I think we have an advantage though. Having weathered, and in 2 cases - beaten off - his threats, he will be expecting us to retaliate. I have no doubt he would be expecting that. But he has underestimated us and overestimated his own ability. Let's press our advantage quickly before he regroups. We don't have to be nice about it - he struck the first blow - in my opinion, it's time to punch back.
Dr Wildman placed the Helm back on his head and transformed into something akin to the 'Creature' from the black lagoon. "I'll take the low road then...under the sea"
Patty shrugged casually.
"Sure, happy to be advance eyes. Did you have my astral form in mind, or something a little more literal boots on the ground?"
Patty nodded. "Works for me. As you all probably know by now, when I slip the mortal bonds and go tripping the spirit fantastic, I can move around pretty fast BUT it leaves my body basically in a coma. So as long as someone keeps an eye on me-- er, it-- ah, it's confusing, we should be fine."
"Is there anyone that you would prefer to watch over you?" StrikeForce asked her.
"Unless someone here is a licensed deep-tissue massage therapist, it's all the same to me." Patty smiled.
Speaking to those assembled StrikeForce said, "While I know that we have gathered information that is drawing our attention away from the biggest threat that we are currently facing. Meanwhile Dr. Apocalypse is threatening more destruction. I believe that that is where our attention should be directed." StrikeForce will wait to hear what the other heroes have to say.
StrikeForce turned to talk to Adamas and Joshua Rose about the Island location so that he can determine the best avenue of approach for landing the team’s transport.
If they are all in agreement to go after Apocalypse, StrikeForce obtained the coordinates for the island and prepared the craft for takeoff. He ensured that the aircraft has flotation equipment, survival gear and food/water.
CHESS Rooks loaded a Skycycle into the cargo bay of the aircraft. They ensured that if Black Orchid needed to exit the aircraft quickly she would be able to it by riding the Skycycle.
<Turns and Actions due Feb 27th>
Battle Conditions (Mighty Protectors character data):
Adamas Hit Points: 24 Power Points: 72
Black Orchid Hit
Points: 24 Power Points: 92 Visible
Dr. Wildman Hit
Points: 12 Power Points: 60 Form: Man
Erdbeben Hit
Points: 46 Power Points: 66
Patty Plus Hit
Points: 15 Power Points: 60
StrikeForce Hit Points: 31 Power
Points: 93
Rubicon Hit
Points: 20 Power Points: 66 Absorption Protection
MISHA Hit
Points: 41 Power Points: 101
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Exciting
stuff!
OOC: Tom, forgive me but I can't find your
explanation of the title and role of the Sorcerer Supreme. I think there are 3
schools - Black, White and Grey. I think you have to defeat the current
'Sorcerer Supreme' in combat to take on the mantle. I also think the old Dr
Arcane was from the 'White School' and was defeated by his former apprentice Dr
Apocalypse from the 'Black School'. Have I got that right?
Some supplementary questions:
What does the world in general know about a
'Sorcerer Supreme'? - is there common knowledge of such a thing? When Dr
Apocalypse went public with his broadcast, would this be a worrying concern for
the average person?
What sort of power level would a 'Sorcerer
Supreme' wield? Do the various organizations gathered consider this an
'extinction level' event - hence their gathering? Is this an event that would
have international implications or do other nations assume it's an American
problem as they are the ones being threatened?
Where do Druids fit into this? Is there a minor
'Green School' with a light and dark distinction?
Sorry for lots of questions. Hope it's OK to
ask.
Steve
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
"Ok,
Rubles is certified good to go so that's a good thing." Patty smiles at
Rubicon, gives him a friendly thumbs up.
"I think it's weird the bad guys allow
oceanographers to have a base on the island, you would think they would be
paranoid they were government agents keeping an eye on them or something. But
whatever, I just work here. I think it's important to note that there are civilians
that could be impacted if we go in too loud, both the oceanographers and these
natives someone mentioned."
She looks at Adamas. "And if we DID want
to go loud, this umbrella thingy prevents that, right?"
She shrugs. "Everything about this setup
feels like it's screaming recon first to me, then a stealth approach before any
shots are fired."
"Do we have access to a submarine or
something that can sneak us close to the island?"
Shane
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Though
he feels pulled in many directions with the turmoil in his family The Cyborg
Crusader knows that the crisis involving Apocalypse will require his attention
first. Jason takes time before departing to send texts to his father, brother,
and girlfriend. (Please don't make any drastic decisions until I return and we
can discuss everything.)
OOC: If they reply back, he will talk to them.
StrikeForce will travel to where the group has
assembled and check back in with both his team and the Government agencies that
a present to ascertain if there has been any new developments since he was last
here.
OOC: He will collect any new information and
coordinate between all involved parties.
StrikeForce's will call the team together.
Speaking to those assembled he will say, "While I know that we have
gathered information that is drawing our attention away from the biggest threat
that we are currently facing. Meanwhile Dr. Apocalypse is threatening more
destruction. I believe that that is where our attention should be
directed." StrikeForce will wait to hear what the other heroes have to
say.
If they are all in agreement to go after
Apocalypse, he will get the coordinates for the island and prepare the craft
for take off. He will insure that the aircraft has flotation equipment,
survival gear and food/water.
Replying to Patty Plus. "I can fly our
craft in at a low altitude to get in under the umbrella of energy they have
constructed, and I have reviewed the topographical information of the island to
determine the best approach area to best avoid detection. Obviously we want to
not cause collateral damage to the innocent people that are there. If you want
to volunteer for advanced scout, I think that you are our best option at this
moment, though I would prefer that Dr. Wildman(in animal form) go with you."
OOC: He will discuss anyone's ideas or
suggestions.
Jamey
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Demy
gives Patty both a return thumbs up and
a smile.
"I was thinking the same thing, Patty. The
indigenous people and Oceanographers are a concern. Strange to me as well that the researchers
are allowed here....".
Thinking for a moment Rubicon continues:
"Are we certain of these scientists are who they say they are? I mean, any
chance that is a front for something? If not, do we have bios on them so we
know how many there are, names, ages, where they located on the island(s),
doiscriptions, what university or organizations they are funded by? Is anyone
in normal communications with them for supply and status report updates? If so,
any chance we can utilize that as a means of accessing the island as a front too
supporting them? Same with the indigenous people: how many are they, where are
they, who's the leaders of both groups. We should be able to be able to
establish trust and not make things harder than they need to be with these
unknowns getting in the way or causing additional disruption. I'm not saying
they will stab us in the back but I'd feel more confident that either group
isn't going to be factor n the mission equation."
"Aside from collateral damage I also want
to know that either group isn't going to be used as human shields or taken
prisoner."
"Do we try to get either or both group
isolated prior to the attack? If so, do we try to make contact with them prior
to ensure we can mitigate these issues?
Maybe during the scoutung mission find where the energy generators are,
or are they magic in creation , like a spell or something? Do we need to take
that out, too in case we need to call in back up?"
Before anyone can speak, he continues:
"Oh, and lastly, what about the creatures
mentioned that are supposed to be protecting the island? Again: how many, what
are they? We talking kaiju or smaller, magic or natural? Any Intel on how many,
strengths, weaknesses, are they controlled naturally or just inherently
protective of their habitat?"
Demy finally stops for breath and, with wide
eyes, blinks repeatedly at the group.
Greg
---------------------------------------------------------------------
I have
added a link on the website that explains Magic in Megalopolis
https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/465763132118517647/4761950447690363169
Steve, On Dr. Apocalypse's public address the
common man's reaction is "Capes will be Capes."
The Sorcerer Supreme is extremely powerful.
Almost as high power as powerful as high team all by himself.
Various organizations gathered do not consider
this an 'extinction level' event. The storm was a nuisance but more show than
effect. The Doomsday Robot isn't the first giant creature to attack
Megalopolis. See the Star-Devourer Incident - Quest Issues 10 - 13. Giant
Creature attacks are a regular event in the Heartland of America. They stay away from major cities: New York,
Chicago, Megalopolis, Los Angeles, Houston, etc. The Government created their
own Agency to deal with them. The Agency title is the Home Guard, but they are
known to the public as the Mighty Transformin' Power Paladins.
The Domain Cross Dimensional Invasion was an
'extinction level" event. See the Crossover Miniseries Issues 1 to 12.
The reason all the Agencies are here is because
The Destroyers were captured. They were the most wanted super team in America.
They were a slippery team which the Agencies could never pin criminal acts to
and couldn't capture because of their tendency to avoid battle. The Destroyers
didn't believe in fighting until the last man standing. They had certain
objectives when does objectives were achieved or blocked, they would depart.
Finding a team powerful to capture them especially having to chase them down was
difficult. Remember the New Crusaders are a high power team while the majority
of super teams are standard.
The Destroyers defeated 3 Super Team at once in
Quest Issues 14 to 17. Safeguard, New Super Society, and The Fellowship were
defeated through combat or through misdirection. Only because of the actions of
Adams was it a pyrrhic victory for them. See Other Heroes of Megalopolis if you
want to see the first two teams.
While the storm was a nuisance, there is a
faction of people that are blaming Global Warming, stating it couldn't have
been done by a cape. This is seen as a Megalopolis Problem since Dr. Apocalypse
requested islands under their jurisdiction. There are members of Congress
attempting to pressure Megalopolis city governments to give him what he wants.
A magic user will have to defeat one of the
Mages (White, Black, or Gray) first, because only one of the 3 mages can
challenge the Sorcerer Supreme to magical combat for the position.
Dr. Apocalypse defeated Morto Void before he
defeated Old Dr. Arcane. Old Dr. Arcane was White Magic and after his
apprenticeship Dr. Apocalypse switched to Black. Some believe it was because
Morto Void was the easiest of the 3 to defeat. Dr Apocalypse represents all 3
as Sorcerer Supreme.
Druids usually fit in the Gray focus of magic.
It is because of the whole Circle of Life and Predator/Prey relationship. But
there are 'Green Schools' that are White which advocate for the Lion to lay
down with the Lamb. The ones which are Black advocate Invasive Species into new
environs, decay and disease, and bring cleansing wildfire to the 'Green'.
Shane,
Manta-Man said, "Yes, I can arrange for a
commercial submarine to be obtained. It won't have combat ability, but it will
get you there."
Greg,
Agent America said, " If you are asking if
the researchers are agents of the United States. No, they are not. Other than
that, we have no reason to think they are not who they appear to be. No, we
don't have bois on them. This isn't a surveillance state where all the movement
of its citizens are tracked. Is this normal in your home country? I have heard
bad things about the U.S.S.R but I didn't know it had reached this level. Where
the Government had detailed information on every citizen and tracked their every
move."
Bishop Prince said, "The scientists have
never communicated with any US Agency. We don't have access to any
communications they might have had with their organization. If you would like
to meet with a representative of their organization, we can provide the
information so you can contact them yourself. We don't know if they need
support or not if you wanted to pretend that. We don't know who you should
contact and we don't know how to contact Dr. Apocalypse without him knowing who
we are. All we have in the way of contact information is what he gave us to let
him know when the islands were his and the people evacuated.
DarkStar said, "No US Citizen except the
Oceanographers have been on the island since the military left. Since the
island is not a US island there are not any census records. Cybil can't find
anything online about the indigenous people. They are luddites. They don't even
have a Facebook page.
Manta-Man said, " How do you propose to
gain their trust without going there? or did you mean once you were
there?"
Dr Arcane said, "It isn't Pietor's
mentality to hide behind human shields. I don't know if he has a partner, but I
suspect he might. He doesn't have the ability to create these robots. If Pietor
was going to take them as prisoners, then they are already prisoners. Your
arrival won't change the situation."
Bishop Prince said, "We have provided all
the Intel we have. If you want more then you will need to figure out who and
how you want to get more, especially how they are going to get it back to you.
The Nacht Island has been cut off from World Intelligence for the last 6 months
or more."
Dr. Arcane said, "Don't worry about the
Demons, the Cross Dimensional pathways from the Domain have been closed. So
there aren't any more, except for a few like Shapeshifter which are stranded
here."
Tom
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Patty's
eyes widen at Agent America's dressing down of Demy.
"Hey, wait a minute. It was a good
question raised while planning a dangerous mission. To me it seems reasonable
that we might have at least basic intelligence on a group of researchers
operating on an island that's basically the HQ of really bad buys. Seems weird
to me that they're even allowed to be there."
To Manta-Man: "Thanks! Although it sounds
like StrikeForce might prefer to fly in. I'll let him or Black Orchid make the
decision."
Shane
--------------------------------------------------------------------
In
response to Agent America, Demy scoffed and looked up while rolling his eyes
and slapping his thigh.
Before he can react, Patty stepped in with her
response. Probably a good thing...
Following her statement, Demy bit his tongue
and gave himself a moment to collect himself before responding, "No,
sorry, forgive my bad transition to English still. My intent wasn't whether the
researchers were US Agents, although that would be good to know, too. It was
whether they MIGHT be working with Dr. Apocalypse."
"And yes, the U.S.S.R. IS THAT bad. It is
always assumed that the KGB has information on anyone and everyone. Just like
America's own 3 letter agencies may have information (profiles?) on certain
people and organizations? Forgive me if
I am so naive, maybe too much Law-and-Order tv shows. It always looks like the government agencies
are able to "pull a file" or do some research on some people that are
of concern. I'd like not to believe it and believe me I want nothing more to be
in this great country, grateful to be here, and mean no disrespect Agent
America." (OOC: was there a subtle hint of inflection on that last
word...?) "I know you stand for all that is good for the country in your
namesake."
Demy pauses a moment before continuing:
"But that's not my point. Im not asking
for their internet search history. I just thought that these apparent civilians
may have some info that was gained so we can identify and account for them if
we run into them..."
To Bishop Prince and DarkStar he says,
"Thank you. Yes, maybe having their organizations representative name
would help. We may inquire about names of those there and if they have means to
contact them. Is it not a liability to our mission or a concern to us or them
that we at least try to let them know they may be in harm’s way? I know there's
no time for normal State Department diplomatic coordination and also we are
talking about a clandestine approach so we need to ensure we don't undermine
the mission. I don't know," he looks at Strike Force, "I defer to
better experienced leadership."
To Dr. Arcane he says, "Ah, I see. Thank
you. So, it could be shapechangers that are "the beasts" protecting
the island. That could be open ended if they can take the forms if other people
and beasts?" Demy asks this as a legitimate question. Demy tries to recall
the file info on Shapeshifter currently in custody he read prior to the last
mission. Can she change into match another human? "Hey, I hope they don't
take form of one of us, no? Or the
villagers or Researchers...".
Greg
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Patty's
eyes widen at Agent America's dressing down of Demy.
"Hey, wait a minute. It was a good
question raised while planning a dangerous mission. To me it seems reasonable
that we might have at least basic intelligence on a group of researchers
operating on an island that's basically the HQ of really bad guys. Seems weird
to me that they're even allowed to be there."
Agent America replied, "HQ of really bad
guys? Until this week, Dr Apocalypse was considered a good guy. He assisted in
the defense of Earth against the Domain. He was the apprentice of Old Dr.
Arcane and assisted in the rescue of New Dr. Arcane from Occult when Occult
kidnapped her and took her to the Domain Dimension. It is very possible the
researchers don't even know that Dr. Pietor Apoucalos, who owns the island, and
Dr. Apocalypse are the same person.
Lillith of FISH asked, "Why do you think
the world thinks this is the HQ of really bad guys unless you think that all
magic users and creatures of magic are bad guys. Is it possible there are
magic-phobes in the room?
Demy bit his tongue and gave himself a moment
to collect himself before responding, "No, sorry, forgive my bad
translation to English still. My intent wasn't whether the researchers were US
Agents, although that would be good to know, too. It was whether they MIGHT be
working with Dr. Apocalypse."
Bishop Prince said, "Prior to this week we
didn't know that Dr. Apocalypse was planning a coup of his nature. We had no
idea that The Destroyers were working with him. It wasn't until yesterday that
we learned the same Robot maker that helped The Destroyers in the past (Quest
issues 14 to 17) made both the Doomsday Robot and Red Wing. We still don't know
for sure that CyberDoom is working with Dr. Apocalypse but is capable of the
Electronics Firewall that is preventing Cybil and any other Electronic or Satellite
surveillance from occurring. Dr. Apocalypse isn't capable of this kind of
robotic and electronic sophistication. Is it possible the researchers are
working for Dr. Apocalypse? Yes. He has surprised us a lot this week. Do we
have a way to find out before you go, no CHESS does not."
DarkStar chuckled when Demy said Agent America
stood for all that was good for his country. Agent America laughed too and
shook his head as DarkStar's laughter grew into a full belly laugh. DarkStar
spoke to prevent tears from flowing from his eyes. "The Man from MEDUSA,
America's Super Spy. the Man that dragged Julian Assange to the States by the
nose hairs. Yes, Agent America does represent America but not the America of
the TV shows. It took the Domain Invasion to bring him into the light. The
Super Forces is the only place he can serve now that he has become a famous
cape".
Agent America said, "I know that TV shows
like Criminal Minds have super hackers that can find anything on anybody even
those that don't use computers because of credit cards, CCTV, and Ring Cameras.
but there are places like Hallowed Hills which don't have does not kind of
electronics everywhere. They still only use cash or rare material. There are
shops in Hallowed Hills which only accept gold, silver, and copper for payment.
They won't even accept the American Dollar. It is still hard to believe they
are a part of Megalopolis but they are. I have had Techomancer and DarkStar had
Cybil to try to pull electronic files on the researchers but nothing. It
appears they use DUCK DUCK GO and other privacy firewalls. IF you want to wait,
we can continue to attempt to extract the data."
Bishop Prince provides Demy the contract
information for the organization for the researchers. Whoever calls speakers
with marine engineer Graham Hawkes. If Dr. Apocalypse is mentioned, Mr. Hawkes
asked if it is the new Supervillain that is being talked about on Unit One's
broadcasts concerning the latest Cape turned bad. Weren't they calling him the
Sorcerer Supreme? Mr. Hawkes then goes on a long tirad that he didn't believe
in magic. He quoted Arthur C Clarke three times, saying "Magic is science
we don't understand yet." When the caller redirects him back to the
researchers. He said yes, we have permission from Dr. Pietor Apoucalos. He is a
good customer having bought several of Graham's designs for aquatic equipment.
Graham Hawkes bragged about the Deep Hawks subs. They are a one man compact
submersible designed to make dives to incredible depths. "If you can drive
a car, you dive in a Deep Hawk" was the sales pitch. He asked the caller
if they would like to buy some. When the caller redirects Graham back to the
researchers, yet once again, he does state that he hasn't heard from them in a
while but that is normal. Nacht Island is a dead zone for electronic
communications. Satellite phones and devices don't work there. He expects that
in another month or two, one of the researchers will leave the Island, at which
time they will contact him and provide a status report. If the caller left
their phone number he would be sure to ask them to call the caller too.
Dr. Arcane corrected Demy, "Yes, a
shapeshifter can become anything that has similar mass and it knows the object
in detail. If intelligent enough it can change into creatures seen only in
photos or drawings. Fortunately most shapeshifters are not that smart. Most
have the intelligence of a dog or other canine species. Not all Domain demons
are shapeshifters. In fact they are very few. If there was a demon on the
Island when the portal closed, she would expect it would be dead. There is no
way the Sorcerer Supreme, Magical Protector of Earth would allow it to live on
her island." Dr. Arcane muttered a simple spell which projected a multiple
of horrific creatures above their heads. It was equivalent to a 3D projection
system with smell as well. Someone in the room said, "I sure hope this is
science we figure out someday. I don't want smell-a-vision in my future"
There were a few floating names without
pictures. Dr Arcane apologized. She couldn't remember what those demons looked
like.
The names of the demons appeared under each
creature except for an grotesque upright walking Walrus which showed its name
of Overseer with a description of its abilities
http://vav-megalopolis-pbem.blogspot.com/p/villain-gallery-of-megalopolis.html
scroll down to the Domain and the Demons of the
Domain.
Tom
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The hair
on the back of James's neck bristle at the thought of assaulting the island and
putting the civilians in danger.
"Can't we pull this off without putting anybody else in danger? I
mean, we were lucky that the Destroyers didn't cause debris to fall onto the
street but out on an island there would be little help for anybody injured due
to our actions."
"Besides that, I don't think we should
make pre-contact with either group. If they've been on the island for any
amount of time, Dr. Apocalypse either has them as allies or they are prisoners.
In either case, they will most likely be closely monitored by Apocalypse."
"I'm thinking we should make landfall at
the furthest point away from everybody else and make our way in from
there."
Paul
---------------------------------------------------------------------
"Making
landfall will be dependent on having adequate space to put the aircraft down. I
can always let the team out and land at the closest location." StrikeForce
replied.
Jamey
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Patty,
having enough of the bureaucratic posturing that she'd gotten her fill of in
the military, rolled her eyes at Lillith. "Yes, that's *exactly* how I
meant it."
"But back to the matter at hand. So, we're
headed to an island that is surrounded by sea monsters and is off-limits to
pretty much every country, and a dude named Apocalypse lives there."
"But since it's an island where the good
guys live, we have to either sneak in or assault it."
"And," she lets her gaze sweep over
Agent America and Lillith, "all you folks are here to gather intelligence
from our most recent mission, where we risked our lives and now you are getting
valuable benefit for your agencies. So you're making sure to show at least a
minimum of respect for that, and the fact we're about to go risk our tails
again."
"Did I miss anything?"
Shane
--------------------------------------------------------------------
OOC:
@Tom Hise what happens as Dr Arcane and Dr Wildman interrogate ShapeShifter?
Assuming that this goes without major incident
and it all fits...
StrikeForce will call the team together.
Speaking to those assembled he will say, "While I know that we have
gathered information that is drawing our attention away from the biggest threat
that we are currently facing. Meanwhile Dr. Apocalypse is threatening more
destruction. I believe that that is where our attention should be
directed." StrikeForce will wait to hear what the other heroes have to
say.
Dr Wildman removes the Helm of the Chimera and
pulls his fingers through his hair, "sorry for the helmet hair" he
apologises to no one in particular. "I'm not sure the potency of the
storms and the Doomsday Robot are evidence that Pietor can technologically or
supernaturally destroy the major cities as he claims, but equally I am sure a
whole load of people are going to get hurt when he tries - and he will try.
He's lost too much face to not play his hand now. I think we have an advantage
though. Having weathered, and in 2 cases - beaten off - his threats, he will be
expecting us to retaliate. I have no doubt he would be expecting that. But he
has underestimated us and overestimated his own ability. Let's press our
advantage quickly before he regroups. We don't have to be nice about it - he
struck the first blow - in my opinion, it's time to punch back.
Replying to Patty Plus. "I can fly our
craft in at a low altitude to get in under the umbrella of energy they have
constructed, and I have reviewed the topographical information of the island to
determine the best approach area to best avoid detection. Obviously we want to
not cause collateral damage to the innocent people that are there. If you want
to volunteer as an advanced scout, I think that you are our best option at this
moment, though I would prefer that Dr. Wildman(in animal form) go with
you."
Dr Wildman placed the Helm back on his head and
transformed into something akin to the 'Creature' from the black lagoon.
"I'll take the low road then...under the sea"
Steve
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Dr.
Arcane focused interrogating Shapeshifter on how and when she came to
Earth. The Mistress of Magic was shocked
to learn it was the first Domain Incursion and not the last one. Shapeshifter
had been on the tactical team that kidnapped her as a child. Instead of
returning with Hannah (yes Dr Wildman had to stop and check that he heard
right. Shapeshifter knew both Dr. Arcane and the Old Dr. Arcane's secret
identities) Shapeshifter stayed on the Earth. She liked this world better. It
had both Prey and Predators unlike the Domain which only had Predators.
Once Dr. Arcane was satisfied that there
weren't any open portals that would allow the Domain travel to the Earth's
dimension, she asked how long The Destroyers worked for Pietor. Shapeshifter
reacted with anger, creating fangs, as she spoke. "The Destroyers work for
no one but ourselves. We have partnered
with Pietor when is to both our benefit.
"What about the Isotope?" Dr. Arcane
asked. "Why did Pietor want it?"
"He didn't" Shapeshifter said,
"Cyberdoom needed it. Pietor wanted the Cloak. Everything would have
worked out fine if it wasn't for Adamas. We had paid Bull to attack StarCorp so
DarkStar would abandon his teammates for his employees. While the New Super Society was a surprise,
Cyberdoom's Cyberions defeated as expected.
We showed Adamas his mistake for interfering but Cyberdoom didn't get
the Isotope but Pietor got the Cloak."
(GM Note: Quest issues 15 to 17)
"Pietor owed us and Cyberdoom. So we
decided since he owns an island we wanted our own too."
Shapeshifter smiled, showing her fangs,
"tick toc. You are on the clock.
You haven't won and you really don't want to see what comes next. Give
us those islands!"
Tom
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Patty shrugs casually.
"Sure, happy to be advance eyes. Did you
have my astral form in mind, or something a little more literal boots on the
ground?"
Shane
----------------------------------------------------------------------
"Patty,
I was thinking that your astral form would be better for scouting, but you know
your powers the best." StrikeForce replied.
Jamey
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Patty
nods. "Works for me. As you all probably know by now, when I slip the
mortal bonds and go tripping the spirit fantastic I can move around pretty fast
BUT it leaves my body basically in a coma. So as long as someone keeps an eye
on me-- er, it-- ah, it's confusing, we should be fine."
OOC: Patty can move at 384" (131 MPH) in
her astral form.
Shane
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"Is
there anyone that you would prefer to watch over you?" StrikeForce asks
her.
Jamey
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"Unless
someone here is a licensed deep-tissue massage therapist, it's all the same to
me." Patty smiles.
Shane
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Awesome
stuff Tom.
Lot to unpack.
Thank you!
Greg
----------------------------------------------------------------------
