Saturday, July 28, 2012

Codename: Red Hawk: We can handle these Guys! - Issue 6

Location: Memorial Park in Our Fair City

Landing on the ground, Red Hawk fell to his knees. He fought to stay awake. His vision blurred as he saw the oak tree image disappear to be replaced by a giant man in a deep sea diving suit. Giant diver was carrying a giant sword.

Red Hawk’s systems came back online. His vision cleared. While he was on his knees he was wide awake.

Chris kept his vibratory defenses active and moved to cover Condor, hoping to give his mentor an opportunity to work on the bomb.

"Condor handle the bomb. Shatterman and I can handle these guys."

He took to the soared behind Death Kite who had attack him earlier. Death Kite had been over confident that his successful attack had knocked Red Hawk out. He was focusing on attacking Condor and was unaware of Red Hawk’s approach

VZZT!

Red Hawk struck Death Kite with a single vibe blast incapacitating him. This time his opponent fell to the ground but instead he would not be getting up any time soon.

{GM Note: Red Hawk’s agility is not high enough for a dual attack. I chose a single attack instead on multiple attack}

BLZZT!

From the distance an older attractive woman (think Angie Dickenson or Jane Seymour) fired a blaster at Red Hawk and missed.

Condor took off from the ground. "Thanks Red Hawk but I have all the data I need. It is time for us to show B.A.D that coming to Our Fair City was a mistake"

Whiff

Condor flew by SWARMaster. His punch missed him.

SWARMaster blasted another set of stings at Condor. All the stingers struck his armor without any damaging him. "I will get through your armor soon Condor and then my venom with take you out."

BLRRZT!

"Oh Yeah! Its go time!" Shatterman yelled as he blasted Cosmic Zoom, hitting his armor.

A swarm of insects surrounded Shatterman. They cover his face and body covering him in a near cloud of darkness. He could not see Cosmic Zoom moving toward him.

KABAM!

Cosmic Zoom struck him with his bastard sword, knocking him 10 feet into the park. Shatterman landed in the branches on a new by tree. Shatterman signaled he was okay. It was obvious he was trying to show he was doing better than he really was but he was still in the fight.

<
 Current Conditions: Red Hawk Hit Points: 49 Power Points: 70 Vibration Defense: On

I am not providing a map because on the number of Flyers in this combat. The PC and the majority of the NPCs can travel the entire length on the park multiple times. If you have any questions about landscape let me know.
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OOC: Don't faint but one reason I didn't post earlier is because I couldn't think of anything appropriate for Red Hawk to dialogue about under the current circumstances. His lack of knowledge and background means he's reacting on whatever the android version on instinct is or instructions from his mentors. They're a little busy. Holy cow enough 'players' on the field or what? :)

 <Red Hawk: IC Response and Actions> Chris will keep his vibratory defenses active and move to cover Brian/Condor, hoping to give his mentor an opportunity to work on the bomb. If opportunity presents itself he will use his Action to make a dual attack on one of the three following targets. In order of priority. The hawk-like flyer, the giant sword wielded, or the insect guy. He will also try to use his tech-enhanced senses to find the illusionist how is causing so much havoc. "Condor handle the bomb. Shatterman and I can handle these guys."
Thanks Tom
 John
Due Date: June 27th, Actions? Replies?>

The Wraith: Tinman! - Issue 25

Location: Crusader Citadel

Through the stairway door flew their next adversary, Centurion.

"I don’t know how you defeated Marionette and Hornet, Starboy and Tonto, but you will never defeat me!" He screamed.
"Crap! Where do they keep finding these guys?! Scumbags-R-Us?"

"Look, We both know how this fight is going to end, so how about you go ahead and give up and I will tell everyone how tough you were and what a good fight you put up. " At this point Starbolt's eyes began to glow as he attempted to intimidate the Centurion. "Or, do I have to get rough"?
Starbolt took flight to achieve a higher position and evade any blast that came.

SATRK!

Centurion blasted at ‘Starboy’ but his power blast was easily avoided.

Tomahawk ran over to a Mechanic’s tool box. He picked it up tools and all. He lifted ½ ton chest and threw it a Centurion.

BAM!

It struck him denting his armor. Centurion looked at him with a snarl. "Wait your turn Tonto, I will beat you down once I finish off Starboy here."

Then Centurion will suddenly find himself in a tornado of aircraft parts, battering and blinding him. The Wraith did not gesture or even look at him directly, remaining still and silent as always.

BAM! BAM!

The parts dented his armor further but wasn’t able to knock him out of the air.

                                                                     ** At the same time on the first floor **

Mocker watched as Manta Man and Enforcer moved to release the other Crusaders. While they were still recovering from the effects of the gas they were weak but Mocker wasn’t going to see if their numbers overcame their weakness. He turned and ran out of the room.

                                                                    ** At the same time on the third floor **

Sitting in the Security Monitor Console is Raijin. He is apparently meditating. There were streams of electricity flowing from him to the Console and back to him. Black Orchid created a separate the path to the Emergency Communications Console from Raijin by a wall of darkness. She moved to the ECC and activated. The single went out informing the police and CHESS that the Crusaders were in trouble.

BZZT!

An electrical blast struck the side on the ECC. Raijin said "I can’t see where you are but nothing happens here electronically without me knowing it. I would love to teach you a lesson but that will have to wait until after day."

Then Black Orchid saw Raijin run to the stairs and head toward the rooftop. She ran down the stairs to the infirmary where she found the Crusaders tending to an unconscious Manta Lad.


Due Date: June 27th, Actions? Replies?> 

 Current Conditions: Black Orchid Hit Points: 30 Power Points: 84 Willpower Defense active
Manta Lad Hit Points: 0 Power Points: 47 Luck Points Pool: 0 ** Unconscious **
Starbolt Hit Points: 34 Power Points: 72
The Wraith Hit Points: 10 Power Points: 51 Invisibility: +3/-3
Tomahawk Hit Points: 69 Power Points: 84
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Crap! Where do they keep finding these guys?! Scumbags-R-Us?" The solar-powered sentinel thought to himself. "Look, We both know how this fight is going to end, so how about you go ahead and give up and I will tell everyone how tough you were and what a good fight you put up. " At this point Starbolt's eyes began to glow as he attempted to intimidate the Centurion. "Or, do I have to get rough"?
OOC: Starbolt continues to evade, an if it looks like Centurion will not give up, then he will attack. Otherwise he will accept his surrender.

 ----------------------------------------
Sorry I'm at least on the cusp of being late for this, but examining the map...is that furniture near Centurion? If not, are there any loose objects at all near him? This will determine my next move.
 Thanks,
 Greg
----------------------------------

 Hi Thomas,
The Black Orchid will separate the path to the Emergency Communications Console from Raijin by a wall of darkness. She will attempt to activate the ECC and then continue down to where Manta Lad is (I'm assuming she heard Manta Lad fall).
-------------------------------------------
It is a Hanger and repair shop so it is furniture in the form of workbench, large tool box and Helicopter/Jet parts. Plenty of 50 to 500 lbs furniture and parts to choose from.
Best
Tom
-------------------------------------------

 Then Centurion will suddenly find himself in a tornado of aircraft parts, battering and blinding him.
The Wraith will not gesture or even look at him directly, remaining still and silent as always. Odd how this always happens, isn't it?

Crusadin' the night away,
 Greg.
 -----------------------------------------

Crusade: Tinman! - Issue 22

Location: Crusader Citadel

Through the stairway door flew their next adversary, Centurion.

"I don’t know how you defeated Marionette and Hornet, Starboy and Tonto, but you will never defeat me!" He screamed.
"Crap! Where do they keep finding these guys?! Scumbags-R-Us?"

"Look, We both know how this fight is going to end, so how about you go ahead and give up and I will tell everyone how tough you were and what a good fight you put up. " At this point Starbolt's eyes began to glow as he attempted to intimidate the Centurion. "Or, do I have to get rough"?
Starbolt took flight to achieve a higher position and evade any blast that came.

SATRK!

Centurion blasted at ‘Starboy’ but his power blast was easily avoided.

Tomahawk ran over to a Mechanic’s tool box. He picked it up tools and all. He lifted ½ ton chest and threw it a Centurion.

BAM!

It struck him denting his armor. Centurion looked at him with a snarl. "Wait your turn Tonto, I will beat you down once I finish off Starboy here."

Then Centurion will suddenly find himself in a tornado of aircraft parts, battering and blinding him. The Wraith did not gesture or even look at him directly, remaining still and silent as always.

BAM! BAM!

The parts dented his armor further but wasn’t able to knock him out of the air.

                                                                     ** At the same time on the first floor **

Mocker watched as Manta Man and Enforcer moved to release the other Crusaders. While they were still recovering from the effects of the gas they were weak but Mocker wasn’t going to see if their numbers overcame their weakness. He turned and ran out of the room.

                                                                    ** At the same time on the third floor **

Sitting in the Security Monitor Console is Raijin. He is apparently meditating. There were streams of electricity flowing from him to the Console and back to him. Black Orchid created a separate the path to the Emergency Communications Console from Raijin by a wall of darkness. She moved to the ECC and activated. The single went out informing the police and CHESS that the Crusaders were in trouble.

BZZT!

An electrical blast struck the side on the ECC. Raijin said "I can’t see where you are but nothing happens here electronically without me knowing it. I would love to teach you a lesson but that will have to wait until after day."

Then Black Orchid saw Raijin run to the stairs and head toward the rooftop. She ran down the stairs to the infirmary where she found the Crusaders tending to an unconscious Manta Lad.


Due Date: June 27th, Actions? Replies?> 

 Current Conditions: Black Orchid Hit Points: 30 Power Points: 84 Willpower Defense active
Manta Lad Hit Points: 0 Power Points: 47 Luck Points Pool: 0 ** Unconscious **
Starbolt Hit Points: 34 Power Points: 72
The Wraith Hit Points: 10 Power Points: 51 Invisibility: +3/-3
Tomahawk Hit Points: 69 Power Points: 84
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Crap! Where do they keep finding these guys?! Scumbags-R-Us?" The solar-powered sentinel thought to himself. "Look, We both know how this fight is going to end, so how about you go ahead and give up and I will tell everyone how tough you were and what a good fight you put up. " At this point Starbolt's eyes began to glow as he attempted to intimidate the Centurion. "Or, do I have to get rough"?
OOC: Starbolt continues to evade, an if it looks like Centurion will not give up, then he will attack. Otherwise he will accept his surrender.

 ----------------------------------------
Sorry I'm at least on the cusp of being late for this, but examining the map...is that furniture near Centurion? If not, are there any loose objects at all near him? This will determine my next move.
 Thanks,
 Greg
----------------------------------

 Hi Thomas,
The Black Orchid will separate the path to the Emergency Communications Console from Raijin by a wall of darkness. She will attempt to activate the ECC and then continue down to where Manta Lad is (I'm assuming she heard Manta Lad fall).
-------------------------------------------
It is a Hanger and repair shop so it is furniture in the form of workbench, large tool box and Helicopter/Jet parts. Plenty of 50 to 500 lbs furniture and parts to choose from.
Best
Tom
-------------------------------------------

 Then Centurion will suddenly find himself in a tornado of aircraft parts, battering and blinding him.
The Wraith will not gesture or even look at him directly, remaining still and silent as always. Odd how this always happens, isn't it?

Crusadin' the night away,
 Greg.
 -----------------------------------------

Quest: Turmoil - Issue 27

Location: Domain

The healing hands of Mary put Elwood's body back to normal but his head took a moment longer to get up to speed. "I think that will be enough for me Charlie, but Harvey may want one for the road." Of course there is no "Charlie" around, and Elwood started to realize this. The grains of the terrain stuck to his sweaty hand as he pushed himself up so he brushed himself off, lightly shook his head and with a new smile asked his friends, "Anyone get the license plate number of that tumbleweed?"

Mr. Dowd looked to be about to continue when he stopped himself as though he was interrupted by another speaker. He looked from Mary to an empty space to her side and back to Mary then saying, "Harvey and I are very grateful for your help once again young lady." In an uncharacteristic serious tone he went on, "Harvey recommends having the Dravens point the direction we need to go. He would like to quickly run ahead and return with details of the path before us."
Elwood turned to Agent America, "With your blessing of course."

"Go for it," replied Agent America as he scanned Occult's stronghold through his binoculars. "In fact, I think I'll join 'him'."

The star-spangled secret agent turned to The Team. "We sorely need reconnaissance before the coming battle. I'll scout out Occult's stronghold to see what intel can be had. I'll stand the best chance at success if I go it alone. No offense.
If I'm discovered, she might mistake me for Ion. If things go south, I'll try to be the distraction we need for the rest of you to rescue Donnah. I'll keep in touch via the amulet or the communicator."

He checked his gear one last time and said, "I can't imagine any objections to Adamas leading the Team while I'm gone." If he was still holding Magus' scroll, he'd hand it to Adamas. It was clear from his body language and manner of speaking that this time he wasn't inviting debate.

Activating his Amulet; Magus shares a private thought with Dr. Arcane, "I’m now confident that our decision was for the best, giving him room to exercise his own brand of leadership was an enlightening experience. I was certain that he would place well as a lieutenant, but my initial assessment seems to have fallen short of the actual nature of things it would seem. Spy’s are what they are after all, and leadership appears to have been too confining of a mantle for him. Perhaps this Adamas fellow will prove to be a better choice, only time will tell I’m afraid."

The super spy turned to Elwood. "Let Harvey scout the ground between here and Occult, but no further for now. Occult can probably detect... giant rabbits."

Joshua used the sensors in his gauntlets and goggles to collect data on the Domain’s local astronomical energy readings. He thought, given time, he might be able to create a transformer to alter the Domain's natural energies into a form of solar radiation. When he heard Agent America and Elwood discuss plans to recon Occult’s stronghold he immediately stepped up to restrain the Agent from taking flight. "Have you lost your senses? When has separating a Team member from the group ever ended in anything but disaster. Me and Bull, you and Mystic, Adamas and the Floop Brothers … no, there is no way you’re taking off on your own."

Taking a deep breath DarkStar added, "Our man Elwood here just proved he can cast an
 Slipping the two large survival backpacks he had been carrying on his back to the ground. "Cybil might not be with us, but I was a reconnaissance expert long before I created my first A.I. The gear I brought all checked out and works fine. I brought two full field packs with the best surveillance gear on the planet. IR/UV telescopic cameras, laser audio transmitters and receivers, the works.

Don’t be in such a rush to play John Wayne just yet. It’s not worth the risk. If it was I’d just teleport in and start tearing the place up as a distraction while you guys exfiltrated Donnah and the scrolls." Once again focusing his thoughts solely to AA through the amulet. " . . .
 "John Wayne? I'm not looking to fight Occult singlehandedly. I'm looking to spy on her, like I did on Juompur."

Doctor Apocalypse responded via Amulet: "
orders? DarkStar I know you long for the days before you became DarkStar. It is obvious by your attire but have you even tested your equipment yet. Best Surveillance Gear on the Planet? Which Domain planet are you referring to?

There is no solar radiation in the Domain, are you sure that the Demons give off a heat signature that UV/IR can even read? Your MEDUSA training is useless here where Demon Tumbleweeds can blow your brains out, literally."
Teleport blind into the Stronghold of a Sorceress that can block your teleportation plus you have no ability to heal. Is that what you are going to do, instead of follow Agents A's DarkStar pulled out in UV/IR device. When he turned it on the unit worked fined when it was pointed at his gear and his teammates. When he scanned the country side it was blank. The domain didn’t register on his equipment.

Dr. Arcane replied via Amulet:
 "Be careful, and remember we are battling creatures and not humans. Adamas took the scroll and asked Dark Star to hold it for safe keeping. "My friend, I have no place to store this, and your backpacks have stored precious cargo before," thinking back to the battle with the Star Destroyer.

"Of course Adamas," Joshua takes the scroll and slips it in a carrying case once used to hold the now useless surveillance equipment,

Adamas realized he was created for this. Memories flood his mind of being selected, of a family he once had. He didn't know what had gone wrong, but this was his fight. "We have to get in and get the rest of those scrolls and Donna," he said, laying his hand on the big blue giants shoulder. "What greater love hath no man than this..., to lay down his life for his friend. Every one of us," he said looking into the eyes of each of his team mates "Is willing to make that sacrifice for this mission. Agent America knows what he is doing, and his distraction may be all we need to accomplish this task. We must move on."

DarkStar lays his own hand on the shoulder of his combat companion and nods. A look passes between the two acknowledging that their own time might be short. A quick and focused thought to his friend.
 Once again activating his Amulet; Magus speaks privately with Dr. Arcane, "Interesting, I’ve been wondering for some time now what sort of man sat quietly beneath that costume. He speaks a fair game, but can the man live up to the challenge? I’m curious as to how this will unfold and how he will react to what it is that he will discover about himself while in this realm." After a brief pause he continues, "I can see a spark of remembrance gaining strength within his eyes. This world is silently fueling his unconscious mind and he is slowly recapturing slender moments of his past. I wonder what will transpire once his forgotten memories become an unexpected reality. Will he greet the consequences of his actions with acceptance or will he recoil in disbelief and horror?"

With those words Adamas turns to the stronghold, and began to look for weaknesses with his heightened vision. While others technology may not work in the Domain, he feels strangely at home. He began to lead the team toward the Citadel of Crystal.

Activating his Amulet; Magus continues to give Dr. Arcane his private assessment of Adamas, "Although he appears to be taking on the responsibility of leadership quite well, Adamas’ lack of planning and coordination of the men gives me concern. Sun Tzu once said ‘Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.’ I fear we may be in for a long campaign should our amnesic leader not adequately ready the men for the battles that most certainly lay before us."

Agent America activated his jet pack, and telescoping wings deployed from the back of his battlesuit. "Take care, Team. I won't be long," he called as he flew off low, in case Occult's meta-senses had similar properties to radar. "And play nice!" he added good naturedly.

Magus replied back in an almost ominous tone, "Godspeed Agent America . . . best of British to you."
He'd engage the battlesuit's defenses (Adaptation on), prepare his mind for what was about to come (activate Willpower defense) and make the final approach on foot.

If anyone had told him a year ago that one day he'd be crossing an alien landscape to prepare for the siege of a castle while dressed as a superhero, he'd have laughed harder than time in Gitmo.

Looking in a different direction, Scatterbrain said "I see my dearest friend has made his return" Elwood stated with much glee. Only the sound of stillness and foreign animals can be heard as the so called Scatterbrain stared intently a few inches straight in front of him when he becomes slightly serious again.

"Harvey has discovered what appears to be a secret entrance to the stronghold but we can't get there on foot. It is accessible for flyers, and Harvey can get our big blue buddy in along with myself, but Harvey believes this way in is guarded by Dravens who have just been convinced to have lunch at a new banana tree off in the distance."

A mild chuckle in his voice he goes on, " Did I get all of that right?.. Yes? Thank you Harvey. Oh... My friend tells me that if we act fast, he can disguise us as a flock of Dravens so we can enter the tower without incident. He is ready to lift our big blue teammate and myself if the rest of you can make your own way up." Satisfied with his report, Elwood looks to the Team for feedback and as he does so he gently makes cautious use of his flask. (sip).

After healing Elwood, Mary knows that sticking near him is a must. Things go from bad to worse. She can't heal Darkstar the Team's Tank and then Agent America goes off on his own leaving a void in the role of leader. A feeling of dread washes over Mary."What the hell have I gotten myself into?" She said to herself. She's shutting down.

In a firm and unemotional tone Magus says aloud, "It would appear that our invisible traveling companion has found us a clear path to the citadels interior" He then turns to Adamas and asks, ". . . your thoughts, Adamas."

Adamas agreed. The Team executed the plan that Harvey devised to perfection. They entered the castle without any aware as far as they could tell. They silently move along the corridors with Harvey leading the way. Adamas was next with Elwood whispering Harvey’s instructions. Magus is protecting the rear.

They enter the second story of a large chamber. On the ground floor is Occult standing in front of a large Altar. The scrolls are laid on the Altar. DarkStar could tell there is a force field surrounding Occult and the Altar. In the center of the room are 4 humans and 1 of them is Donna. On the side of the wall is another chain person. It is Agent America still disguised as Ion.

There are 4 Creatures on the walk way that the team members are on and a dozen creatures as guards which line the area.

No one has noticed that they have entered the chamber.



< Due Date: June 27
 
-------------------------------------------------
Daggone Cowboy
OOC: Magic, no tech, only character strongly affected by the high gravity and oh yeah can't heal hit points ... at all. I think Doc recruited the wrong Brick for fighting the Domain,
Fun Issue Tom.
John
----------------------------------------------------
I finally made a useful illusion. And it made the cover!
: )
------------------------------------------------------
Perfect choice for the situation
John
------------------------------------------------
OOC
Nice job Elwood!
Jeff
-------------------------------------------------
Thanks guys.
ô€³¦ It's not for V&V. It's writing for a comic book and like I said it’s a real longshot.ô€³¦ Tom, However you want to handle the games is fine by me.ô€³¦ Thanks for your support.ô€³¦ Best,ô€³¦ Jeff
------------------------------------------------
Well Damn Son
When you say good news, bad news you don't fool around. I'm pleased to hear such an opportunity has arisen, no matter who much a "longshot" you seem to think it to be. I have all the confidence in your ability and creativity. Y You absolutely must grab this bull by the horns and ride it out. Best of luck.
As far as Age of Allies, I'm still collating character power and skills. It might be earlier, but I'm shooting for a June campaign start. Commemorating D-Day I suppose ... but not to fear the Cartoon will be somewhere in the world fighting for the good old U. S. of A. It's war and sadly there are losses, this is AoA's first ... but like all good Cartoon characters I'm sure he can bounce right back when you're ready.
On a purely selfish note: I'll miss DarkStar and Agent America's adventures together.
Warm Regards and Best of Luck
John
-------------------------------------------------
IC:
The healing hands of Mary put Elwood's body back to normal but his head took a moment longer to get up to speed. "I think that will be enough for me Charlie, but Harvey may want one for the road." Of course there is no "Charlie" around, and Elwood started to realize this. The grains of the terrain stuck to his sweaty hand as he pushed himself up so he brushed himself off, lightly shook his head and with a new smile asked his friends, "Anyone get the license plate number of that tumbleweed?" Mr. Dowd looked to be about to continue when he stopped himself as though he was interrupted by another speaker. He looked from Mary to an empty space to her side and back to Mary then saying, "Harvey and I are very grateful for your help once again young lady." In an uncharacteristic serious tone he went on, "Harvey recommends having the Dravens point the direction we need to go. He would like to quickly run ahead and return with details of the path before us." Elwood turned to Agent America, "With your blessing of course."
Micheal
----------------------------------------------------
Elwood turned to Agent America, "With your blessing of course."
"Go for it," replied Agent America as he scanned Occult's stronghold through his binoculars. "In fact, I think I'll join 'him'."
The star-spangled secret agent turned to The Team. "We sorely need reconnaissance before the coming battle. I'll scout out Occult's stronghold to see what intel can be had. I'll stand the best chance at success if I go it alone. No offense.
If I'm discovered, she might mistake me for Ion. If things go south, I'll try to be the distraction we need for the rest of you to rescue Donnah. I'll keep in touch via the amulet or the communicator."
He checked his gear one last time and said, "I can't imagine any objections to Adamas leading the Team while I'm gone." If he was still holding Magus' scroll, he'd hand it to Adamas. It was clear from his body language and manner of speaking that this time he wasn't inviting debate.
The super spy turned to Elwood. "Let Harvey scout the ground between here and Occult, but no further for now. Occult can probably detect... giant rabbits."
He activated his jet pack, and telescoping wings deployed from the back of his battlesuit. "Take care, Team. I won't be long," he called as he flew off low, in case Occult's meta-senses had similar properties to radar. "And play nice!" he added good naturedly.
He'd engage the battlesuit's defenses (Adaptation on), prepare his mind for what was about to come (activate Willpower defense) and make the final approach on foot.
If anyone had told him a year ago that one day he'd be crossing an alien landscape to prepare for the siege of a castle while dressed as a superhero, he'd have laughed harder than time in Gitmo.
OOC:
Hey everyone,
Tom knows I have to take a brief hiatus from the game.
Pleasure playing with all of you! I'll try to be back soon.
Best,
Jeff
--------------------------------------------------
Hey Guys
I know Jeff needs to take a hiatus, and I fully support and wish the absolute best for him. DarkStar's response might seem a lame way for me to want to keep our friend in the game a bit longer (and if it works great - lol) but really it's just a natural response given the Team's history and DarkStar's personality.
<DarkStar: Initial Response and Actions>
Joshua is using the sensors in his gauntlets and goggles to collect data on the Domain’s local astronomical energy readings. He thinks, given time, he might be able to create a transformer to alter the Domain's natural energies into a form of solar radiation. When he hears Agent America and Elwood discuss plans to recon Occult’s stronghold he immediately steps up to restrain the Agent from taking flight. "Have you lost your senses? When has separating a Team member from the group ever ended in anything but disaster. Me and Bull, you and Mystic, Adamas and the Floop Brothers … no, there is no way you’re taking off on your own."
Taking a deep breath DarkStar adds, "Our man Elwood here just proved he can cast an
Illusion capable of fooling the senses of one of this domain’s most dangerous indigenous predators. If he can do that he should be able to use them to get the Team close to the stronghold, and even if he can’t there’s still no way I’m letting you go alone." Focusing his thoughts through the amulet solely to Agent America. "Think of another way, this is not a black-op or commando squad. We're a band of misfits in a strange land. Either take a teammate with you or be prepared for the fact you’re giving an order that you can’t enforce." Slipping the two large survival backpacks he had been carrying on his back to the ground. "Cybil might not be with us, but I was a reconnaissance expert long before I created my first A.I. The gear I brought all checked out and works fine. I brought two full field packs with the best surveillance gear on the planet. IR/UV telescopic cameras, laser audio transmitters and receivers, the works. Don’t be in such a rush to play John Wayne just yet. It’s not worth the risk. If it was I’d just teleport in and start tearing the place up as a distraction while you guys exfiltrated Donnah and the scrolls." Once again focusing his thoughts solely to AA through the amulet. " . . . and that’s exactly what I’ll do if you insist on this insane Lone Ranger bit." OOC: Given the Team’s history of bad mojo when a character separates themselves from the Team, and DarkStar’s attempts to get the Team to start coordinating their actions in combat situations, this is a natural response to Agent America’s attempt to go flying (with a jet pack of all things in a mystic oriented environment – and Magnus thought the comm-badges was a bad idea) off to "recon" the stronghold.
John
----------------------------------------------------
Hey Jeff/Tom
If you got the DarkStar response to the newest Quest Issue it might look like He/I aren't playing ball with Jeff's exit of AA. Don't take it that way though. I just couldn't have DS let AA leave like that - especially if it really is AA's "goodbye". If it is AA's goodbye that's cool but I think it's up to us as a Team to figure out how we are going to operate without AA. If it's not AA's final goodbye ... the I really am asking what the hell are you thinking? Tom always makes us pay when someone is off on his own LOL
Seriously Jeff, I've loved playing with you and look forward to continuing being a fan of Vanguard as long as you're able to keep it running also. Part of me wishes you are back by Labor Day, but the deeper part of me wants to see you succeed beyond any of your imaginations. I know I'd collect any comic you were part of the creative Team on. Best Wishes . . .
. . . but Tom if you think AA is just going to fly off to the castle and mysteriously disappear without some resistance from the bullheaded teleporter ... you got another thing coming lol Don't worry though I really have tried to bend his personality to be more Team oriented. If he does go in guns blazing it won't be without being the best thing for the mission. Which is saving Donnah and retrieving the scrolls.
I sent this to you two because I want the others to play natural off DarkStar's response but didn't want either of you to worry I was taking big blue off the deep end ala the Bull fight.
Warm Regards and Best Wishes
John
------------------------------------------------------
"John Wayne? I'm not looking to fight Occult singlehandedly. I'm looking to spy on her, like I did on Juompur."
OOC
Take care all.
Over to you, Tom. :)
Jeff
---------------------------------------------------
OOC: That's fitting in a way. Juompur was one our best moments ... and the last and only time a single man mission worked
PS: Guys if you notice I didn't send Jeff a copy of this response. I'm going to miss playing beside him greatly, but I also don't want to deluge him with e-mails as he is trying to move on to (for him) hopefully a lifetime opportunity. For those of you involved in Vanguard all I can say is ... nuts to you ... I'm jealous of your opportunity to continue a relationship with such a excellent GM and Player. The sudden loss of such an entrenched character is and should have a dramatic impact on the Team and campaign. Imagine Vanguard losing Slingshot in such a manner. I'm sure Tom's steady hand will guide us through and look forward to role-playing DarkStar's reaction to however Tom decides AA leaves the Team.
Later Team
John
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IC:
Doctor Apocalpyse responded via Amulet: "
There is no solar radiation in the Domain, are you sure that the Demons give off a heat signature that UV/IR can even read? Your MEDUSA training is useless here where Demon Tumbleweeds can blow your brains out, literally."
Teleport blind into the Stronghold of a Sorcerous that can block your teleportation plus you have no ability to heal. Is that what you are going to do, instead of follow Agents A's orders? DarkStar I know you long for the days before you became DarkStar. It is obvious by your attire but have you even tested your equipement yet. Best Surveillance Grear on the Planet? Which Domain planet are your referring to? Dr. Arcane replied via Amulet: "DarkStar, I am sorry. You are best when all the information is known and you can apply your vast intellect to solve the problem. Agent America is best at adapting on the fly as surprises come up. If he believes the best course is for him to try to inflitrate the Stronghold in one direction while the rest of The Team follows Harvey into the Stronghold another way. Trust his abilites and my decision in making him leader. If I am wrong I will step down when you return with Donna and the Scrolls. I know this is Kyber Pass all over again for you but please you have to accept AA's decision." OOC: Okay guys, time to get your roleplay on. Help me get pass Jeff's curveball. Lets have fun with the Valiant Sacrifice of Agent America
Best
Tom
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Hey Tom Doctor Apocalpyse responded via Amulet: "Teleport blind into the Stronghold of a Sorcerous that can block your teleportation plus you have no ability to heal. Is that what you are going to do, instead of follow Agents A's orders? DarkStar I know you long for the days before you became DarkStar. It is obvious by your attire but have you even tested your equipement yet. Best Surveillance Grear on the Planet? Which Domain planet are your referring to? One) Pretty sure the gear should be operation. In Issue 25 when he
Two) I didn't think private conversations could be overheard on the amulet when one specifically focused on a particular indiviual? If Pete has revealed the ability to eavesdrop that is an important piece of information being revealed. Not unsuspected but impotant none the less.
Three) I think I was using the word domain with the little "d" as in dimension, Honestly I'm at a loss and not sure it particularly a big deal, I'll go take a look if it's important.
did a diagnostics, you stated that DarkStar realized it was only the A.I. program that wasn't functional. That basic devices and software worked. Optical and audio surveillance equipment should definitely fall into that category. There is no solar radiation in the Domain, are you sure that the Demons give off a heat signature that UV/IR can even read? Your MEDUSA training is useless here where Demon Tumbleweeds can blow your brains out, literally." DarkStar is taking sensor reading in hopes of finding a way to build a suit that converts the Domain's equivilant energies into a solar power. There is visible light and sound so the surveillance gear should work in those regards as well here as on Earth. UV/IR possibly might not work but that just means the gear's night time sensors are nerfed. Demon Tumbleweeds? Yeah you got me on that one I guess. Just more reason not to let anyone go Lone Ranger
Dr. Arcane replied via Amulet:
"DarkStar, I am sorry. You are best when all the information is known and you can apply your vast intellect to solve the problem. Agent America is best at adapting on the fly as surprises come up. If he believes the best course is for him to try to inflitrate the Stronghold in one direction while the rest of The Team follows Harvey into the Stronghold another way. Trust his abilites and my decision in making him leader. If I am wrong I will step down when you return with Donna and the Scrolls. I know this is Kyber Pass all over again for you but please you have to accept AA's decision." Awww Tom. Now that's just playing dirty pool buddy. First Doc and Pete eavesdrop on a conversation they "shouldn't" be able to hear, and then you play the one card you know will make DarkStar rein in his natural take the bull by the horns personality. His love and respect for the "old man". Dirty pool buddy ... dirty pool. (Of course you know DS can never again trust the amulets as a secure means of communication)
OOC: Okay guys, time to get your roleplay on. Help me get pass Jeff's curveball. Lets have fun with the Valiant Sacrifice of Agent America
PS: . . . and yeah actually if meant saving AA, or any other individual he considered "friend or family" busting into the stronghold - limitations or no wouldn't phase him. In comparison his own life, while valuable in of itself, doesn't compare in importance to those he has sworn to protect. It's what makes the Destroyer Debacle such a factor in all the decision making he will do concerning Team and individual needs in the future. In this instance DS see's AA as pulling his own version of said Debacle . . . and you pretty much know how much Joshua cares about anything Pete has to say. Doc on the other hand . . . you old dog While it means having eavesdropped on a personal conversation you couldn't have picked a better way to generate the response you're looking for from DS. Well played Tom.
John
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OOC: I know Adamas would be freaking out, especially after so recently losing a new friend, but I'm hoping something can happen where AA might rejoin us at some point in time. Didn't the Sorceress tortue Dr. Arcane for a long time before he made it back to Earth. Reminds me of Wytch Blade, I think that was her name, Colosus little sister Ilyana, when she got trapped, and grew up in
a demonic realm. Finally growing powerful enough to escape when only seconds had passed on Earth. I'm not sure what's going to happen with Jeff, but I know he's one talented guy. I'm looking forward to supporting whatever he does. So having said that Adamas is ready to do whatever needs to be done (hoping Magus returns soon) ;). IC: "Be careful, and remember" (Tom, please fill in any memories Adamas might have of this place that might help). Adamas will take the scroll and will ask Dark Star to hold it for safe keeping. "My friend, I have no place to store this, and your backpacks have stored precious cargo before," thinking back to the battle with the Star Destroyer. Adamas realizes he was created for this. Memories flood his mind of being selected, of a family he once had. He didn't know what had gone wrong, but this was his fight. "We have to get in and get the rest of those scrolls and Donna," he says, laying his hand on the big blue giants shoulder. "What greater love hath no man than this..., to lay down his life for his friend. Every one of us," he says looking into the eyes of each of his team mates, "Is willing to make that sacrifice for this mission. Agent America knows what he is doing, and his distraction may be all we need to accomplish this task. We must move on." With those words Adamas turns to the stronghold, and begins to look for weaknesses with his heightened vision. While others technology may not work in the Domain, he feels strangely at home. He begins to lead the team toward the Citadel of Crystal.
Jon
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Nice job with Doc Apoc. I'm pretty sure we players invented the private line thing with the amulets. I don't recall an npc telling us it was possible.
And "valiant sacrifice?!"
Who said anything about a valiant sacrifice?!
;)
Best,
Jeff
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IC
"I see my dearest friend has made his return" Elwood states with much glee. Only the sound of stillness and foreign animals can be heard as the so called Scatterbrain stares intently a few inches straight in front of him when he becomes slightly serious again. "Harvey has discovered what appears to be a secret entrance to the stronghold but we can't get there on foot. It is accessible for flyers, and Harvey can get our big blue buddy in along with myself, but Harvey believes this way in is guarded by Dravens who have just been convinced to have lunch at a new banana tree off in the distance." A mild chuckle in his voice he goes on, " Did I get all of that right?.. Yes? Thank you Harvey. Oh... My friend tells me that if we act fast, he can disguise us as a flock of Dravens so we can enter the tower without incident. He is ready to lift our big blue teammate and myself if the rest of you can make your own way up." Satisfied with his report, Elwood looks to the Team for feedback and as he does so he gently makes cautious use of his flask. (sip).
----------------------------------------------------
when he
did a diagnostics Oops, I read this and thought it turns on properly and the readings says its working. I didn't connect you using the UV/IR on the Dravens or looking for Ghouls. I didn't realize you were listening with the laser device. So I screwed up in misunderstanding your diagnostics check. All the equipment works properly and if DarkStar were on Earth they would be useful but in the Domain the Demons don't give off a readable heat signature and the Crystal environment reflects and diffuses the other surveillance equipment to where it is useful.
The theme for DarkStar is what he relies on Earth is useless and what he values least in the Domain is most important. He truly isn't Reed Richards but the Hulk in this environment. So basically the most important powers of DarkStar is everything he gained after his second mutation and everything before is meaningless.
On Earth Commander Joshua Rose is the most important and powerful aspect of your Character.
In the Domain DarkStar is the most important and powerful aspect of your Character.
Best
Tom
------------------------------------------------------ No problem Phrasing was/is foggy at best. Once he discovered Cybil wasn’t functioning and gauntlets required manual operation I "assumed" his testing and comparing the other equipments functionality would have included same thoroughness. My bad for not being more specific. I'm so use to playing up his intellect and down his physicality it's a little hard to play up the hulk side. Will try to play less Reed and go for more Grimm Apologies John
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I didn't think private conversations could be overheard on the amulet
Oops, I confused private and public communications. But since Jeff won't be responding, I need to continue the private conversation using the NPCs. How about you ask Doc how he heard his private conversation and he will explain because they on Earth the only way they can hear them is to hear all conversations. So why it is possible to have private conversations with both Doctors, in the Domain it is not possible to have a private conversation that the Doctors hear. None of The Team members (except AA of course) heard the private conversation.
Does that sound good to you John?
Thanks
Tom
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LOL Brain hurts lol. For some reason that's not sinking in. How about we go with the Docs, AA's and DarkStar conversation all being private and DS accept its another side effect of being in the Domain. ? Or is that what you were getting at ? Lol. Seriously crazy workday. Either way it's all good important thing is Doc Arcane is the one individual who can almost always talk DS "down" and Adamas's soliloquy as the one DS sees as an example of a true paragowhose the perfect follow up. Awesome job Jon Later Guys John
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My apologies for not catching it to state that the diagnostics says they are functioning as intended but in the Domain they are useless.
Best
Tom
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Lol. Actually I'll apologize. Twice. What I was trying to say was my phrasing when I talked of performing a diagnostics was fuzzy at best. It's all good it only took a hammer and anvil to get me on the same page of "thou shall not have access to any tech whatsoever" theme. Although I suggest leaving the kit hen sink on standby just in case lol All good to go John.
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How a bout we go with the Docs, AA's and DarkStar conversation all being private and DS accept its another side effect of being in the Domain. ? Yep, you have it right. In the Domain the Docs hear all conversations throught the Amulets.
Best
Tom
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OOC: Stuff
Didn't the Sorceress torture Dr. Arcane for a long time before he made it back to Earth. Yeah what's up with that boy anyway? Adamas IC: "Be careful, and remember" (Tom, please fill in any memories Adamas might have of this place that might help). Adamas will take the scroll and will ask Dark Star to hold it for safe keeping. "My friend, I have no place to store this, and your backpacks have stored precious cargo before," thinking back to the battle with the Star Destroyer. <DarkStar IC:> "Of course Adamas," Joshua takes the scroll and slips it in a carrying case once used to hold the now useless surveillance equipment, Adamas IC: "We have to get in and get the rest of those scrolls and Donna," he says, laying his hand on the big blue giants shoulder. "What greater love hath no man than this..., to lay down his life for his friend. Every one of us," he says looking into the eyes of each of his team mates, "Is willing to make that sacrifice for this mission. Agent America knows what he is doing, and his distraction may be all we need to accomplish this task. We must move on." <DarkStar IC:> DarkStar lays his own hand on the shoulder of his combat companion and nods. A look passes between the two acknowledging that their own time might be short. A quick and focused thought to his friend.
With those words Adamas turns to the stronghold, and begins to look for weaknesses with his heightened vision. While others technology may not work in the Domain, he feels strangely at home. He begins to lead the team toward the Crystal Citadel.
"I don't agree, but now is the time for unity not dissension." OOC: Nice job Jon ------------------------------------------------- > MAGUS’S IC RESPONSE <
America knows what he is doing, and his distraction may be all we need to accomplish this task. We must move on."
Talk to you all soon,
Agent America - He checked his gear one last time and said, "I can't imagine any objections to Adamas leading the Team while I'm gone." If he was still holding Magus' scroll, he'd hand it to Adamas. It was clear from his body language and manner of speaking that this time he wasn't inviting debate. Activating his Amulet; Magus shares a private thought with Dr. Arcane, "I’m now confident that our decision was for the best, giving him room to exercise his own brand of leadership was an enlightening experience. I was certain that he would place well as a lieutenant, but my initial assessment seems to have fallen short of the actual nature of things it would seem. Spy’s are what they are after all, and leadership appears to have been too confining of a mantle for him. Perhaps this Adamas fellow will prove to be a better choice, only time will tell I’m afraid." Agent America - He activated his jet pack, and telescoping wings deployed from the back of his battlesuit. "Take care, Team. I won't be long," he called as he flew off low, in case Occult's meta-senses had similar properties to radar. "And play nice!" he added good naturedly. Magus replied back in an almost ominous tone, "Godspeed Agent America . . . best of British to you." Adamas - Adamas realizes he was created for this. Memories flood his mind of being selected, of a family he once had. He didn't know what had gone wrong, but this was his fight. "We have to get in and get the rest of those scrolls and Donna," he says, laying his hand on the big blue giants shoulder. "What greater love hath no man than this..., to lay down his life for his friend. Every one of us," he says looking into the eyes of each of his team mates, "Is willing to make that sacrifice for this mission. Agent Once again activating his Amulet; Magus speaks privately with Dr. Arcane, "Interesting, I’ve been wondering for some time now what sort of man sat quietly beneath that costume. He speaks a fair game, but can the man live up to the challenge? I’m curious as to how this will unfold and how he will react to what it is that he will discover about himself while in this realm." After a brief pause he continues, "I can see a spark of remembrance gaining strength within his eyes. This world is silently fueling his unconscious mind and he is slowly recapturing slender moments of his past. I wonder what will transpire once his forgotten memories become an unexpected reality. Will he greet the consequences of his actions with acceptance or will he recoil in disbelief and horror?" Adamas - With those words Adamas turns to the stronghold, and begins to look for weaknesses with his heightened vision. While others technology may not work in the Domain, he feels strangely at home. He begins to lead the team toward the Citadel of Crystal. Activating his Amulet; Magus continues to give Dr. Arcane his private assessment of Adamas, "Although he appears to be taking on the responsibility of leadership quite well, Adamas’s lack of planning and coordination of the men gives me concern. Sun Tzu once said ‘Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.’ I fear we may be in for a long campaign should our amnesic leader not adequately ready the men for the battles that most certainly lay before us." Elwood - "I see my dearest friend has made his return" Elwood states with much glee. Only the sound of stillness and foreign animals can be heard as the so called Scatterbrain stares intently a few inches straight in front of him when he becomes slightly serious again. "Harvey has discovered what appears to be a secret entrance to the stronghold but we can't get there on foot. It is accessible for flyers, and Harvey can get our big blue buddy in along with myself, but Harvey believes this way in is guarded by Dravens who have just been convinced to have lunch at a new banana tree off in the distance." A mild chuckle in his voice he goes on, " Did I get all of that right?.. Yes? Thank you Harvey. Oh... My friend tells me that if we act fast, he can disguise us as a flock of Dravens so we can enter the tower without incident. He is ready to lift our big blue teammate and myself if the rest of you can make your own way up." Satisfied with his report, Elwood looks to the Team for feedback and as he does so he gently makes cautious use of his flask. (sip). In a firm and unemotional tone Magus says aloud, "It would appear that our invisible traveling companion has found us a clear path to the citadels interior" He then turns to Adamas and asks, ". . . your thoughts, Adamas." > MAGUS’S GOAL(S) < For now, Magus wants to continue observing the other members of ‘The Team’ ( OOC: I can’t even begin to tell you how much I would like to see that name changed ) and taking a reactive; as opposed to a pro-active, approach to dealing with the issues that confront it. He will keep Adamas ( ‘The Team’ leader ) up to date on anything that he see’s or suspects as the group travels along its path. > MAGUS’S OOC RESPONSE < Because of his powers ( e.g. Flight, Heightened Sense of Reality, etc. ), the nature of his weakness, and the onus placed upon him by the Geonesian’s; Magus will take it upon himself to act as the groups vanguard. Flying anywhere from ten to thirty feet above the ground Magus will keep pace with; but stay ahead of, the main group. ------------ Great issue – really having fun seeing all the roles within ‘The Team’ taking shape and then being redefined - lots of great role-playing going on – love’n it. It’s going to be tough losing Jeff and Agent America – hopefully they’ll both come back to us quickly. - Kev -------------------------------------------------
IC: After healing Elwood, Mary knows that sticking near him is a must. Things go from bad to worse. She can't heal Darkstar the Team's Tank and then Agent America goes off on his own leaving a void in the role of leader. A feeling of dread washes over Mary."What the hell have I gotten myself into?" She said to herself. She's shutting down.
Lawrence
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Funny you should mention that. I think Doc once said something about time passing at a different rate in the Domain. I could be mistaken. I think the simple answer is yes. (hoping Magus returns soon)

Changes Characters stats while in Domain
Adamas – Agility no change, Carrying Cap is 3,666, and HtH is 1d12
Agent America – Agility no change, Carrying Cap is 1,097, and HtH is 1d10
DarkStar – Agility is 11, Carrying Cap is 27,696, and HtH is 3d10
Elwood – Agility no change, Carrying Cap is 53, and HtH is 1d2
Harvey – He is a magical or imaginary being so his ‘stats’ are unaffected.
Magus – Agility no change, Carrying Cap is 852, and HtH is 1d8
The Cure – Agility no change, Carrying Cap is 85, and HtH is 1d3}
th, Actions? Replies?>
"I don't agree, but now is the time for unity not dissension."
"DarkStar, I am sorry. You are best when all the information is known and you can apply your vast intellect to solve the problem. Agent America is best at adapting on the fly as surprises come up. If he believes the best course is for him to try to infiltrate the Stronghold in one direction while the rest of The Team follows Harvey into the Stronghold another way. Trust his abilities and my decision in making him leader. If I am wrong I will step down when you return with Donna and the Scrolls. I know this is Kyber Pass all over again for you but please you have to accept AA's decision."
and that’s exactly what I’ll do if you insist on this insane Lone Ranger bit."
Illusion capable of fooling the senses of one of this domain’s most dangerous indigenous predators. If he can do that he should be able to use them to get the Team close to the stronghold, and even if he can’t there’s still no way I’m letting you go alone." Focusing his thoughts through the amulet solely to Agent America. "Think of another way, this is not a black-op or commando squad. We're a band of misfits in a strange land. Either take a teammate with you or be prepared for the fact you’re giving an order that you can’t enforce."

Codename: Red Hawk

Name: Red Hawk
Secret Identity: Chris Eagle
Age: 1
Gender: M
Height: 6' 0"
Weight: 200 lbs
Level: 4
Experience Points: 12,271
Player:  John R

Winged doppleganger turned perserver of a sacred legacy. 

Super Powers and Super Skills:
1) Android Body: (endurance +11) human appearance 95%                     Roll d6 on "systems" failure
*Body Power: see Regeneration, heals 95% hp damage                                                               * (1-2)
   Body Power: Variant on Regeneration, recovers Power Points at Healing Rate
                            (Level 4 Advancement)
*Heightened Senses: Detect Hidden and Danger x4                                                                      * (3-4)
*Vibratory Powers: 24" range, 2d8 damage, PR 5 per attack, see rules for special effects.   * (5-6)
* Instead of unconsciousness, roll % dice for potential "systems" damaged from losing hit points in combat.
2) Heightened Strength A: +16
3) Heightened Expertise with Vibratory Powers and HtH. (+1/level up to level 4) +4
4) *Winged Suit* Flight Device: 272 mph, PR 1 per hour
5) Invulnerability Device: 10 points

6) Heightened Agility B: +8 (2 Lvl Advancement)

7) Willpower: Mind Control Defense; provides defense against Emotion and Mind Control only, PR=1 to activate and PR=1 per attack

Weakness: rebooted memory holds no specialized skills or knowledge.
Weakness: Hunted by CyberDoom, D20, 5 or less

Statistics:
Strength: 26
Endurance: 29
Agility: 14
Intelligence: 16
Charisma: 12

Hit Points: 49
Power Points: 85

Carrying Capacity: 2,047.6 lbs
Hand-to-Hand Damage: 1d12

Accuracy: +2 (Including Power Mods)
Damage Modifier: +2 (Including Power Mods)

Detect Hidden: 48
Detect Danger:  64

Reaction Modifiers: 1 from Good -1 from Evil

Movement: Ground:  69 per turn
Movement:  Flight 492 per turn
Healing Rate: 3.2 hit points per day

Occupation:
Security Clearance:
Wealth:
Skills:
Luck Points: 1.2
Gear:
Notes: