Location: Dr. Avery’s Mansion
After
the new recruits and the existing members of the Guardian had a chance for
small talk, the host of the event seemed to just appear in the center of the
room. Instinctively, CX activated his defenses and took a defensive
posture. Seeing that the sudden appearance was none other than their
host, he powered down and resumed a more casual posture.
"Good evening. Dr. Arcane, I
presume?"
As
Red Hawk was about to introduce himself to the Centurion when he detected a
'ripple' in the air and the image of Dr. Arcane appeared in the library. Red
Hawk just as suddenly sensed the golden adventurer's armor powering up and was about
to react when just as suddenly it powered down and the man resumed a more
casual posture. Leaning in Chris whispered "Can't blame you there.
Could use a bit more warning myself next time”.
“Yeah,
a little warning would go a long way." CX whispered
“Welcome all.
Thank you for answering my invitation.
I have need of adventurers to help save our world. Artifacts of great strength were being sought
out by villains.” With a wave of his
hand, images appear around him and start orbiting. Looking at them it is easy to identify what
they are by shape but not their significance.
There are 6 objects: 5 scrolls, 1 scythe, 1 gemstone, 1 Orb, 1 statue of
a serpent or dragon, and a Cloak.
“The Guardians have retrieved all of them but
one. I would retrieve it myself but my power is waning and I must conserve
it. Where in the past I would travel
with you, alas I cannot but I will guide you.
Here take these”
“I have already given one to each of the
Guardians. These are for you.”
Suddenly appearing before each of you was an
amulet on a chain and it was floating. “Put it on. The amulet and chain are enchanted. It will stay with you and no one can take it
from you unless you will it. It will
disappear from sight if you desire. It
will provide you access past the wards and protections on the house. I and the Guardians will be able to speak
with you whenever needed.”
Taking the proffered amulet from Dr. Arcane,
Chris slipped the amulet around his head. He was sure he did not understand how
it's magic was suppose to function, but then he had so much to learn about the
world being ignorant of one more field of study was hardly a surprise. Focusing
on memories of Black Orchid becoming invisible at the Tower, he focused on the
amulet and ... it disappeared, “Fascinating.”
CX thought to himself as the amulets are
distributed. "Magic amulet? It’s
uncomfortable to just accept it, but, my own suit operates off Aetheric
principles that most modern scientists call bunk. If there exists an extra dimensional energy
that interacts with our own reality but is nearly undetectable by normal means,
then there can certainly be manipulation of other unseen forces yet to be
discovered or explained by science. I
suppose that many scientists would call my Aetheric Generator a magic
trick. I felt that demon lord touch my
mind from another plane of existence.
Whether it is several invisible energy sources or real magic, the fact
is that it exists. Like all reality, I'm
stuck with it. Time to just deal with it
and move on." CX accepted and
donned the amulet. He watched Red Hawk
close his eyes and concentrate. His
amulet falls into nothingness, just as Dr. Arcane had said it would. CX followed suit and was intrigued when his
amulet, too, has seemed to vanish. "Thought controlled energy
manipulation... Not that different than
my own Synaptic Interface Circuit. I'll
have to study this amulet, in detail, later..."
David gently took the amulet from the mystic
guardian and though he no longer had access to his chi as he once had, he could
still sense its arcane power. “Alien
dimensions ... alien worlds? This is not why I left behind the Temple and my
so-called Destiny. I belong here on Earth, hunting in the shadows. It is here
in Megalopolis alleys and backstreets I can do the most good. Starting with
Oracle's lead on a Pentacle cell here in the city.”
After accepting the amulet from Dr. Arcane, Starbolt
thought to himself “Abra-Cadabra,
disappearus-nowus. Cool, looks like it has faded away."
Thunderhead accepted the magical amulet and
inspected it with care. Thunderhead studied the amulet expecting it to be an
ancient relic instead it appeared very contemporary, to the late 1920s that is.
It appeared that Dr. Arcane crafted and enchanted them himself.
The Black Orchid took the amulet and put it
on. "Oh no! it works too well" she joked, a smile appearing on her
face moments before all of her disappeared altogether. She quickly reappeared
and then said to the others, "Sorry couldn't help myself. I think some of
you might not know that I can now turn myself invisible, at least for a little
while, and that's how I was able to sneak in and do so much damage to the
tower. I figured a demonstration was better than just telling you." She
then made the amulet disappear on its own. "That, and I wanted to see the
effect on the amulet without having to wait for the heat of the battle."
Dr Arcane smiled as all taken had the amulet
and many had put it on. “We have to prepare to retrieve the last artifact but
first I need appoint a new team leader.” A magical beam appeared from the gem
holding Dr. Arcane’s cloak. The beam engulfed DarkStar and Adamas. Neither of
them was harmed.
“Most would expect the choice to be the
Guardian with the most experienced or have the greatest physical prowess. That
is not why Agent America or Magus was selected. They both contained an inner
strength needed to resist the traps of the Domain.”
“While DarkStar does have internal fortitude,
he does not have what is needed. In fact, his dependence on this dimension’s
sunlight to heal is why he will not going you on your next mission. He will
still have his amulet so he will be able to offer advice and guidance.”
“Adamas too is missing what is needed. His
valor and strength, as well as knowledge of the Domain make him as excellent
assistant leader. He will function as second in command.”
The magical beam focused on both Starbolt and
Centurion X bathing them in its glow.
“Starbolt while young has great heroism
within him but he does not have what I seek”
Starbolt listened as one by one all are
bathed in the Doctors light and are scanned for whatever "It Factor"
that was necessary to lead this team.
“Centurion X while your path has been wrought
with mistakes you are on a path destined for honor and greatness. Unfortunately
you do not have what is required either.”
As the light show held him, momentarily, in
the spotlight, CX was amazed at Dr. Arcane's insight. He thought, "Well, he has amulets that can go invisible when you want them to. I suppose it would be just as easy to read
our thoughts. If you are reading my
mind, Sir, then you know that I am only protecting my identity so that I can do
good." With that, CX filled his
mind with complex equations that he visualized in front of himself. Keeping his mind occupied, his heart came to
a dramatic conclusion...
The magical beam focused on the shadows where
the Archer was standing.
“Ah, this one has what I am looking forward
but he is not prepared to step into the light”
As the Doctor's beam plays across him and he
heard the Doctors judgment he nodded at the elder vigilante’s wisdom.
"Thank you. You are right sir. It is not my time to join the Guardians
today. There are other fronts in this battle and I must remain in Megalopolis
to fight them. If the war goes ill and I am needed again as at Stonehenge I
will be there if needed."
Dr Arcane replied, “That is commendable and
understandable. Keep the amulet. Do not wear it unless you want to speak to me
or you want me to know your location. Keep it in a safe location. This way you
can reach the Guardians when needed and we can signal to you when we need you.”
Archer slipped the amulet in a pocket.
The shadows slipped around the dark archer as
Doctor Arcane's mystic beam slid to the next Guardian.
The magical beam focused on Thunderhead.
“So you are indeed the man I had heard of in
my youth. It seems I am not the only one that the Domain has altered time for.
While the Guardians need your prowess you are not the leader that is needed”.
When the responsibility of leadership passed
over him, Thunderhead was relieved.
The magical beam focused on Black Orchid.
As the magical beam of Dr. Arcane started to
bath those in the room one by one, Red Hawk listened as the Doctor announced he
was searching for the team's newest leader. His shock as Adamas and DarkStar
are passed over was barely noticeable but even his android emotions cannot be
held totally in check as Megalopolis greatest heroes simply acknowledge the
Doctor's decision. “If not them then who?”,
As the beams glided over each member, finally resting on Black Orchid Dr.
Arcane announced she had what was needed for the coming venture; Chris nodded approvingly
at the choice
Dr Arcane asked her, “Will you lead the
Guardians?”
"I'm
not leadership material for a band of heroes, at least not yet. Also, my record
for leading things is a little spotty." Then Black Orchid's thought seemed
to go somewhere else, to a different time, and then she immediately snapped
back. "But I am more than happy to be a right hand and will support
whoever is chosen."
Dr. Arcane gave a nod of understanding.
Red Hawk was almost as shocked as earlier
when she spurned the Doctor's offer of leadership.
. . . But not as surprised as when the beam
turned to Red Hawk and it glows in agreement.
Dr Arcane said, “Interesting, this one has
the potential. While young and inexperienced, he has something old hidden
within him. He does not contain the essence of Freedom Eagle like Shatterman
does but there is some kind of memory.”
Chris just stared at the Dr. Arcane for a
moment and his thoughts focused on the Doctor was surprised when he felt the
amulet's power as question upon question come to mind. "Me? Potential? How do you know of Bri ... err Condor and
Shatterman's connection to Freedom Eagle?”
When the beam landed on Red Hawk, and
proclaimed that he had been chosen, Starbolt thought, "He seemed a bit reserved on our mission, but that may be a good
thing. Maybe a leader who is not too quick to fight, when strategy would be
better is what this team needs."
When it landed upon Red Hawk, the man of
yesterday was surprised. Thunderhead hadn't expected to serve with, let alone
under, an automaton. The future's surprises seemed without end.
Dr Arcane asked, “Joshua, I can’t tell what
it is because it’s not a force of the world but something man has created
through science. Would you please investigate?”
Chris
silently nodded as he listened to the Doctor's explanation and agreed to follow
DarkStar. The little felt emotion of fear slithered coldly through Red Hawk's
synthezoid logic processing units, but for reasons he could not rationalize he
trusted the Doctor the same as if it were Brian and Dennis asking him to do the
same. DarkStar smiled as he clasped Chris's shoulder and...
**WHOUMP**
While we wait for them to return, Pietor
please provide some refreshment. Donnah will you see to our guests needs. As
they turned to follow they saw, for the first time for some, that she was made
completely out of wind.
As the strange denizens of the 21st century
engaged him, Thunderhead responded with interest and courtesy. When there was a
lull in the conversation; the historian in him gave him no choice but to
continue absorbing the wonders of this building's collection. But before long, Thunderhead
began to grow impatient. He was sent here for a purpose.
**WHOUMP**
When DarkStar and Red Hawk return there was
little noticeable change in the red white and blue clad hero, but still he seemed
more focused, his eyes more analytical than before. Where once there was the
studious look of a young man, now there was visage of one ready to lead. Chris
simply nodded and smiled at each of the new Guardians with the addition of a
slight bow to Adamas. Taking a seat next to his friend Starbolt he listened
with care to the rest of Dr. Arcane's briefing
Dr Arcane spoke to the rest of the Guardians.
“To lead this team into the Domain, you need not a leader of great experience
or charisma. You need one who can withstand the attacks of Cr’tgerof himself.
Red Hawk will be able. Do not worry for he will not lead alone. Both Joshua and
I will advise him and he will have Adamas and Black Orchid to support him in
the field.”
“But before the Guardians can defeat the
Domain, the Quest must be completed”.
“The last remaining artifact is the
Soul-Scythe. It has been stolen by Glenn Jacco. He has taken it to Easter
Island. The Tarot Masters have magic wards and protections in place which are
hiding it and him from me.”
Leaning over to the star-hero Red Hawk
whispered "Soul-Scythe huh? I wonder if it is a weapon we could use
against Cr'tgerof?"
Starbolt replied to his statement,
"Maybe, or it may simply be a focus for the other items. Congratulations
on the leadership position. You can count on me to, I got your back."
"Thanks SB, I hope I can live up to
Doctor Arcane's expectations. Suddenly have access to ... my predecessor's
tactical acumen doesn't give the experience some of the others have. I'll need
everyone's input to make this work."
"Easter
Island... Rapa Nui. Over 1,000 miles to the nearest other island... Over 2,000
miles to the mainland Chile... We will truly be on our own." The
Black orchid pondered Dr. Avery's words.
With
that, the conversation turned to the Domains and our prospects at winning.
CX told of his plans to create a new suit that will function properly in
the Domain. He also had heard that there wasn't much metal in the demons
dimension. He fashioned a block of steel heavy enough that he could carry
it on his suit but not having to use his magnetic control to do so.
Red
Hawk said “The armored one certainly seems eager to get back into the battle
again doesn't he?"
To the rest of the assembled
heroes, Starbolt said. "I know that some of us are chomping at the bit to
get going, but what is the state of the Intel we have on the Domain."
"I
do agree, Starbolt, a good battle plan is needed, although it does seem there
are a few things we need to do beforehand, so hopefully those with a more
strategic mindset will be working on that while some of us attend to other
matters."
“And
good to see you Starbolt”, Black Orchid said.
Dr.
Arcane agreed as well. “The plan has to be two steps. First is finding Jacco on
Easter Island and securing the Soul-Scythe. Second is to enter the Domain to
stop them from ever invading again.
As
the superheroes of this century began planning, Thunderhead stayed in the
background listening. The man of yesteryear still had much to learn.
When Starbolt asked for intel on the Domain, Thunderhead waited until everyone had given their input, and then he said:
"I can share what I know. Agent America recently escaped imprisonment in the Domain. There, he met a man named Nomad who can walk between dimensions. Nomad and Agent America are gathering heroes from across the dimensions to form a resistance against the Domain and to free the prisoners of Cr’tegorf’s Castle, that include heroes from your time: Meganaut from the Super Forces, Blitzkrieg from the New Super Society, and Telecom.
When Starbolt asked for intel on the Domain, Thunderhead waited until everyone had given their input, and then he said:
"I can share what I know. Agent America recently escaped imprisonment in the Domain. There, he met a man named Nomad who can walk between dimensions. Nomad and Agent America are gathering heroes from across the dimensions to form a resistance against the Domain and to free the prisoners of Cr’tegorf’s Castle, that include heroes from your time: Meganaut from the Super Forces, Blitzkrieg from the New Super Society, and Telecom.
"So
far, Agent America and Nomad have recruited Cougar, Conquistador, Night Wraith,
Machinist, and me for the resistance. Slowly, so as not to attract attention of
the Enemy. I am here on their behalf.
"Glenn
Jacco is still alive here in 2013. I've been sent to stop him, again. I first
met that corrupt sorcerer in 1931. He made a pact with demons and almost became
the ruler of the world. Jacco has a gate to the Domain on Easter Island. It's
the only way to bring more than a single hero through at a time."
After
listening to the Domain intel. report and Thunderhead's
info on the Domain Resistance, CX piped up.
"It’s nice to know that we might have some
back up. Is there any way you can communicate with them to coordinate our
efforts? I happen to agree with Starbolt in that a timely arrival can
mean the difference between victory and defeat."
Thunderhead
replied to CX, "I have no way to communicate with the resistance. But
I have two compasses that will guide us to the rendezvous point. I was
instructed to give one to Adamas when we entered the Domain and say:
"Don't worry." Thunderhead faced the man of adamant, "When
you are in the Domain, you will know how to use it."
CX listened and absorbed the plan for finding
the Scythe. He seemed unusually quiet as
the plans are discussed. He took the
time to watch everyone in the room.
Though quiet, he seemed attentive to the matters at hand. He responded when asked for his opinions or
capabilities but did not offer up any plans or alternate solutions.
When all talk was finished, Thunderhead had
but one question: "How soon can we get to Easter Island?"
Dr
Arcane replied, “Pietor and I have two more recruits to bring to us and Red
Hawk has to decide when the team can be ready.”
After the plans are discussed, Centurion X
approached Dark Star.
"If you wouldn't mind, can I have a
moment of your time? I need to speak
with you, Adamas, Dr. Arcane and Red Hawk.
It is very important. Can you
arrange that for me after everyone else leaves?"
CX was social with his new found friends and
comrades. But when the other members of the guardians had left, CX remained. He looked at the gathered might and wisdom
before him and was humbled. Though
lacking the experience, Red hawk was chosen to lead. CX respected that choice.
"I asked Dark Star to speak to all of
you. I have no doubt that the things I
am about to say and do will be no surprise to Dr. Arcane. To some of you, it may be a shock and may
even anger you. That, however, is not my
purpose. By my own nature, I have a lot
of difficulty trusting others. But I
also know that asking for trust, without offering it first, is ridiculous. I would have preferred to share this with the
group as a whole, but I have come to realize that several of our members have
obligations to government agencies that would really like to see my head on a
stick right now. Sharing this with them
and asking to not pass it along would place them in a moral quandary that I am
not willing to inflict upon my new teammates.
Each of you, however, holds a place of leadership with all of us. Whether it be an official position or one of
simple respect and trust, each of you hold sway with the entire group. That is why I trust you with this."
CX entered the code and unlatched his
helmet. He slowly lifted the crafted
technology from his head to reveal the face of Alexander DeBrandt, owner of DBI
and the man convicted for his crimes as Devastator.
{GM Note Devastator was a recurring, powered
suit villain for the Indestructibles.
The Devastator suit was designed to do massive amounts of damage.}
Joshua watched as CX lifted the helmet
revealing his identity as the multi-billionaire industrialist Alexander
DeBrandt. “Has Gaunt lost his mind? I
can't believe Huffington has sanctioned this. Samuels yes but Huffington? I
knew CX was tied to DeBrandt; I just had no clue how close that tie was.”
Centurion X continued speaking, "Trust
cannot be earned without first being given freely. I am very used to 'doing my own thing’ Stonehenge
proved that. I don't want to keep
secrets from this team. I don't want
this to come out later and have any of you assumed I was doing it for personal
gain. I have so much to atone for. That is why I legally segregated myself from
Devastator. That is why I built this new
suit. People have been hurt because of
me. It’s obvious that I don't know how
to be a hero. I want to save lives. I want to protect people. The woman earlier asked if I was trying to
protect everyone or just find a quick fix.
The answer is yes.”
His initial shock subsided and CX continued
his impassioned explanation, Joshua's hyper-intellect started fitting various
other pieces of information together. “That
explained the DoD's 'invitation' to bid on several defense contracts that until
recently belonged to DeBrandt Industries. Samuel's apparent hostility about
what happened at Stonehenge. He's trying to use CX's actions as a reason to
break DeBrandt Industries ... but why?”
CX said, “I have been the villain. I know the heart of darkness and what Cr'tgerof
will do with the people of our world is an image that I can more than
imagine. In that moment, I had to do
something. Our leadership was broken,
our ranks shattered. All I could see was
preventing the Domain from conquering our world. I needed to stop them, in that moment and not
a second longer. I need your help. I
need your trust and I need your wisdom and guidance. Without it, I fear, I may find myself on the
wrong side again, trying to protect but doing it badly. I ask that this information not leave this
room. Too many of my employees and their
families will suffer for it getting out.
They may suffer for my actions yet."
Alex straightened his back and lifted his
chin. Trust was a risky business with no
guarantees. He stood and awaited their
judgment. For good or ill, he had extend
his hand in truth and asked for their forbearance. He can only hope they will respond
positively.
Joshua made a heavy sigh, trust comes every
bit as hard for him as Alex himself just admitted to. Turning
to Dr. Arcane, Joshua asked "Doc, I assume you're his sponsor with the
DSA? Same as when Adamas and I started out?" Then looking back to
DeBrandt, "You have an opportunity here, don't blow it with false heroics.
When you're in the Domain I strongly suggest you watch Starbolt and Adamas,
they're actions exemplify how a hero is suppose to act. Listen to Black Orchid
and Thunderhead. She is smart as they come and he has experience of the past we
can all learn from." ... nodding to Red Hawk,” ... and our young android
friend here has recently tapped into potential even he was unaware of. He will
lead you well."
The android took Centurion X’s news
stoically. While not the same, his own past does not allow for him to cast
stones on another's darker past. He would give CX the same opportunity Brian
and Dennis gave him. A chance to prove he was more than his previous actions,
that had chose to stride a different path than his past.
Waiting until Alex and Joshua drift to one
side discussing matters of industry he had less than no knowledge of he
approached the doctor before he disappeared. "Pardon me Doctor Arcane. You
say our first mission is to retrieve the Soul-Scythe from Glenn Jacco. I assume
you have transport to Easter Island for the team?
“Both Pietor or DarkStar has the ability to
take you there. If you don’t want their method, which is very direct but has the
element of going in blind. I could arrange for CHESS to provide the Guardians
with a transport vehicle.” Dr. Arcane replied
“Is Pietor or DarkStar taking us there?”
“You will have to ask them yourself Red Hawk.
That is part of being leader deciding on how much intel you need before going
and how you are going in; fast but blind or slow with sight are just two
options to consider.”
“Will
they be joining us?”
“Only if you choose them to transport the
Guardians but they most likely will not stay. I know Joshua told me he has
other important activities to perform instead of making the trip. Pietor has
incredible power but has too much of the ‘ends justifies the means’ mindset for
me. Red Hawk, you are welcome to ask him to join the team if you like. I won’t
prohibit it.”
“What
powers does Jacco wield?
“He is very intelligent, equal to any of the
Guardian team members. He has the ability and endurance to withstand the
elements. He has the hands of a demon, including the claws. He can draw the
very life from a man with his touch. He also wields the Soul-Syckle. It is a
destroyer of souls and protects the soul of its wielder”.
“ Is the Scythe a weapon we can use to
destroy Cr’tgerof?”
“Yes, It is a terrible burden to wield but it
can be used as weapon against Cr’tgerof. Will it destroy him? It all depends on
the wielder. It provides no guarantees, Red Hawk”.
Cr’tgerof tempted half of our heroes at
Stonehenge and I can only think his power is greater on his own home world . .
. I apologize for asking so many questions but this is so sudden and not what I
expected when I was asked to attend this meeting."
Dr Arcane smiled, “No apologies needed. This
is what a good leader does.”
Then they heard Donnah scream.
In less than a blink of the eye Dr. Arcane
disappeared.
**********************
Outside on the Mansion’s back lawn a single
man sat.
Considering how long the last one hundred
plus years had been, the last week should have been gone by in a flash. But the
days had dragged on, with endless poking and prodding from one type of doctor
and another, followed by countless questions from one type of lawman and
another.
All the Kid had wanted to do was eat and sleep.
Well, it wasn't all he wanted to do, but after all this time, it was a start.
He guessed that he had eventually satisfied the procession of lawmen that he
was telling the truth, even if they weren't satisfied with the truth he was
telling. Eventually he'd been handed off to Mr. Delta, and from Mr. Delta to
Doctor Avery; for help "getting settled", he said.
The Kid wasn't interesting in resettlement,
so much as he just wanted to get out from all the artificial lights and
concrete and feel some fresh air on his face and grass under his boots. The
Doctor and his granddaughter had been nice enough, letting him bed down on what
he'd come to call the "back acre", and spending time talking to him
about the changes that had happened to the world during the time he'd spent in
Hell.
The mottled grey Mustang raised his head and
snorted at the cowboy, sending sulfurous smoke curling from each nostril. The
Kid shook his head and settled further back against the big oak he sat against.
"Little early to be gettin' restless,
isn't it, y'old broomtail?" The Kid took a cheroot from his shirt pocket,
and lit the hard, thin cigar with a match struck against his boot. "We
been riding for over a century, and right now, I'm just as happy sleeping out
here in the grass as I would be in bed at some fancy San Francisco hotel."
The cowboy drew on the cigar, and then
exhaled the smoke through his nose. “Course, we don’t want to overstay our
welcome. Doc Avery and his folks have been mighty kind, but we’re gonna have to
find some honest work for ourselves.”
He took a long while to stare up through the
trees. “Truth be told, though, I don’t know who’d be fool enough hire on a
couple of curiosities like us.”
Then they heard Dr. Avery’s granddaughter
scream.
Next they saw Dr Arcane’s man servant smash
through the plate glass windows of the back of the Mansion. He crashed onto the
ground beyond the pool.
**********************
In the Mansion DarkStar was conferencing with
CX in the corner of the library.
"You should know StarCorp has been
invited to bid on several defense contracts that belonged to DeBrandt. I plan
taking the lead on as many of those contracts as possible. It's up to you but
I'm offering to buy those divisions of DeBrandt and keeping those workers
employed if you're willing to sell. You won't make a profit, but the liquidity
offers you a chance to reinvest in new projects. Personally I've been thinking
of looking for a partner to enlarge and upgrade a number of the company’s
aerospace divisions, particularly for a couple satellite and StarDagger
projects."
Then they heard Donnah scream.
***WHOUMP***
DarkStar suddenly appeared in Donnah’s bed
room. In his haste it hadn’t occurred to him to bring Centurion X with him.
Donnah was not there. He quickly consulted his gauntlet.
***WHOUMP***
The Cobalt Commander appeared in the Kitchen.
Donnah wasn’t there either. In frustration he screamed and asked Cybil why she
wasn’t locking onto Donnah’s coordinates. Cybil replied that Donnah’s heat
signature was too faint. Joshua quickly changed the algorithm not to search for
heat but for significant and unusual wind patterns. Since Donnah had been
magically transformed into a Wind Elemental when she had been kidnapped by
Occult and taken to the Domain he knew that would be the best way lock onto her
position.
***WHOUMP***
{GM Note: DarkStar failed his Detect Hidden
with Companion (Cybil) bonus roll twice before rolling successfully}
**********************
Then they heard Donnah scream.
The remaining Guardians quickly gathered
together. Thunderhead pointed out the weather conditions were changing. Someone
was controlling it. Centurion X tried to use his suit’s sensors to detect where
Donnah was but was not able to {GM Note: Failed Detect Hidden roll}
Red Hawk used his sensors to determine that
Donnah had been in the back of the house in the room nearest to the pool {GM Note:
Successful Detect Hidden roll}
As the Guardians ran and flew toward the back
of the Mansion Adamas lead the way. He used his Ethereal Vision to scan the
room at the back of the house. He didn’t
see her but he did see a short man he hadn’t seen before. The man lifted up on
the air, flew out the shattered window and past the pool. Adamas tried to
follow him with his gaze but the back wall of the Mansion blocked his view. His
Ethereal Vision couldn’t penetrate the wall’s thickness.
**********************
Earlier in back of the Mansion, Pietor
prepared the floor for the summoning. “Ask
him nicely? Blah, how much longer will I allow myself to listen to his
platitudes?” Pietor thought to himself. “There are those meant to lead. They have the power and the ability. All
the others are meant to follow. Does a shepherd ask the sheep if they want to
be part of the flock? Does he reach a consensus with them on where the greenest
pastures are? No he does not!”
Pietor tossed the reagents into the summoning
circle as he spoke the words of binding. A shadowy figure appeared. The figure
slowly became solid. Pietor locked eyes with the man as Dr Arcane’s apprentice
said the words that bound the man to the wizard’s will.
Then they heard Donnah scream.
Pietor
look toward the doorway, he had not seen her enter the room.
**********************
The man known as Jack fought back the anger.
It had been centuries since a Magi had successfully bound him. He had been forced
to do the Magi’s bidding but he never did it with joy and happiness. When he
escaped the binding his wrath was a terrible thing to behold. He had destroyed
entire villages in the effort to wreck his vengeance on the summoning Mage.
Jack met the gaze of the current Magi that
would dare to perform this act. He fought the binding spell with all his
willpower.
Then they heard a woman scream.
Jack Frost watched a tornado form from within
her hands. The twister blasted the Mage outside through the windows. The wind
woman flew out the broken windows after the Magi.
Jack felt the command, “Protect Me”; he lifted himself up on the wind. He flew out the
same way the others had gone. He moved to the left of the Mage which was
opposite of the woman who had flown to the right side. As he floated into a
fighting position another Magi appeared, floating, opposite of his Summoner.
As Pietor stood up, the Guardians arrived at
the back of the house in time to see the standoff that was occurring.
<Replies
and Actions due Mar 29nd>
Battle Conditions:
Adamas Hit Points: 47 Power Points: 78 Invulnerability:
24
Black
Orchid Hit Points: 30 Power
Points: 74 Willpower Defense inactive
Centurion
X Hit
Points: 66 Power Points: 35 Magnetic
Defense inactive
DarkStar Hit Points: 90 Power Points: 110 Invulnerability:
30
Hellfire
Kid Hit Points: 13 Power Points: 58 Non Corporealness inactive
Mystical Mustang Hit Points: 25 Power
Points: 42 Non
Corporealness inactive
Jack
Frost Hit Points: 8 Power Points: 53 Ice
Defense active
Red
Hawk Hit Points: 49 Power Points: 28 Invulnerability:
10
Starbolt Hit
Points: 34 Power Points: 51 Creation Points: 75
Thunderhead Hit Points: 43 Power Points: 83 Height: 6 ft
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hey Dave and Tom
Wow Tom excellent use of a ton of role-play
material. Really liked the way you rewrote DarkStar's Side shot and weave it
with the Red Hawk story. So many things are going on I'm definitely going to
have to reread it at least another time or two.
OOC: The following is inspired from the story
itself. I wanted to test the waters on a side role-play of sorts and make sure
I wasn't assuming too much character knowledge from player knowledge. I was
thinking that from CX suggesting StarCorp work with DeBrandt on a defense
system and the Issue mentioning StarCorp invited to bid on projects that had
been DeBrandt's that it would become known to Joshua that DeBrandt was under pressure
if not prosecution. I was thinking if Joshua thought any of DeBrandts
technology would speed up his StarDagger Project he would offer to buy out
those divisions of DeBrandt at a price just above what companies like Manning
would offer. Also I can't remember if Senator Bennet is one of the politicians
he has worked with but his previous experiences dealing with Senators as he
built his Diatanium factories and Meta-Manpower might come into play. If we are
going to build that satellite then we are going to need a few politicians on
our side :-)
Like I said just testing the idea of a bit of
Side Shot RP. If interested please let me know where off if any of the above
makes sense to either of you. In Character stuff to come.
Awesome Issue Tom
John R
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
OOC:
Sa-Weet! I really enjoyed this
issue. All of the character interactions
are making for a lot of fun!
IC: CX
listens and absorbs the plan for finding the Scythe. He seems unusually quiet as the plans are
discussed. He takes the time to watch
everyone in the room. Though quiet, he
seems attentive to the matters at hand.
He will respond when asked for his opinions or capabilities but will not
offer up any plans or alternate solutions.
After the plans are discussed, he will approach Dark Star.
"If you wouldn't mind, can I have a
moment of your time? I need to speak
with you, Adamas, Dr. Arcane and Red Hawk.
It is very important. Can you
arrange that for me after everyone else leaves?"
CX will be social with his new found friends
and comrades. <This means I'm open to other RP as well... hint hint!> But when the other members of
the guardians have left, CX remains. He
looks at the gathered might and wisdom before him and is humbled. Though lacking the experience, Red hawk was
chosen to lead. CX respects that choice.
"I asked Dark Star to speak to all of
you. I have no doubt that the things I
am about to say and do will be no surprise to Dr. Arcane. To some of you, it may be a shock and may
even anger you. That, however, is not my
purpose. By my own nature, I have a lot
of difficulty trusting others. But I
also know that asking for trust, without offering it first, is ridiculous. I would have preferred to share this with the
group as a whole, but I have come to realize that several of our members have
obligations to government agencies that would really like to see my head on a
stick right now. Sharing this with them
and asking to not pass it along would place them in a moral quandary that I am
not willing to inflict upon my new teammates.
Each of you, however, holds a place of leadership with all of us. Whether it be an official position or one of
simple respect and trust, each of you hold sway with the entire group. That is why I trust you with this."
CX enters the code and unlatches his
helmet. He slowly lifts the crafted
technology from his head to reveal the face of Alexander DeBrandt, owner of DBI
and the man convicted for his crimes as Devastator. ***For campaign info: Devastator was a
recurring, powered suit villain for the Indestructibles. The Devastator suit was designed to do
massive amounts of damage.***
"Trust cannot be earned without first
being given freely. I am very used to
'doing my own thing’ Stonehenge proved that.
I don't want to keep secrets from this team. I don't want this to come out later and have
any of you assumed I was doing it for personal gain. I have so much to atone for. That is why I legally segregated myself from
Devastator. That is why I built this new
suit. People have been hurt because of
me. It’s obvious that I don't know how
to be a hero. I want to save lives. I want to protect people. The woman earlier asked if I was trying to
protect everyone or just find a quick fix.
The answer is yes. I have been
the villain. I know the heart of
darkness and what Cr'teforg will do with the people of our world is an image
that I can more than imagine. In that
moment, I had to do something. Our
leadership was broken, our ranks shattered.
All I could see was preventing the Domain from conquering our
world. I needed to stop them, in that
moment and not a second longer. I need
your help. I need your trust and I need
your wisdom and guidance. Without it, I
fear, I may find myself on the wrong side again, trying to protect but doing it
badly. I ask that this information not
leave this room. Too many of my
employees and their families will suffer for it getting out. They may suffer for my actions yet."
Alex straightens his back and lifts his
chin. Trust is a risky business with no
guarantees. He stands and awaits their
judgment. For good or ill, he has extend
his hand in truth and asked for their forbearance. He can only hope they will respond
positively.
Dave
------------------------------------------------------------------------
OOC:
As to the DarkStar/DeBrandt side shot, I have no problem with getting
there in RP. I just posted an IC
response that may lead us in that direction...
maybe. LOL I suggest we RP the side shot with emails
between us after the RP in Sanctum Arcanum (Doc Arcane's House)
I believe we can do some awesome RP with
this. Wow, did I just place my youth in
the 80's or what?!
Dave
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
I am good with the side shot. I agree that
Dave has taken care of any issue with PC knowledge..
Best
Tom
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Great issue Tom.
Jamey
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
<Red Hawk IC: Response and Actions>
Taking the proffered amulet from Dr. Arcane,
Chris slipped the amulet around his head. He was sure he did not understand how
it's magic was suppose to function, but then he had so much to learn about the
world being ignorant of one more field of study was hardly a surprise. Focusing
on memories of Black Orchid becoming invisible at the Tower, he focused on the
amulet and ... it disappeared. Fascinating.
As the magical beam of Dr. Arcane starts to
bath those in the room one by one, Red Hawk listens as the Doctor announces he
is searching for the team's newest leader. His shock as Adamas and DarkStar are
passed over is barely noticeable but even his android emotions cannot be held
totally in check as Megalopolis greatest heroes simply acknowledge the Doctor's
decision. If not them then who? As the beams glides over each member, finally
resting on Black Orchid Dr. Arcane announces she had what was needed for the
coming venture; Chris nodded approvingly at the choice ... and is almost as
shocked as earlier when she spurns the Doctor's offer of leadership.
. . . but not as surprised as when the beam
turns to Red Hawk and it glows in agreement.
Chris just stares at the Dr. Arcane for a
moment and his thoughts focused on the Doctor is surprised when he feels the
amulet's power as question upon question come to mind. "Me? Potential? How
do you know of Bri ... err Condor and Shatterman's connection to Freedom Eagle?
Chris silently nods as he listens to the Doctor's explanation and agrees to
follow DarkStar. The little felt emotion of fear slithers coldly through Red
Hawk's synthezoid logic processing units, but for reasons he cannot rationalize
he trust the Doctor the same as if it were Brian and Dennis asking him to do
the same. DarkStar smiles as he clasp Chris's shoulder and ... *Whoump*
*Whoump* ... When DarkStar and Red Hawk
return there is little noticeable change in the red white and blue clad hero,
but still he seems more focused, his eyes more analytical than before. Where
once there was the studious look of a young man, now there was visage of one
ready to lead. Chris simply nods and smiles at each of the new Guardians with
the addition of a slight bow to Adamas. Taking a seat next to his friend
Starbolt he listens with care to the rest of Dr. Arcane's briefing. Leaning
over to the star-hero he whispers "Soul-Scythe huh? I wonder if it is a weapon
we could use against Cr'tgerof?"
OOC: More to come with more RP in play
John
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OOC:
So, John... How many characters
you gonna play anyway??? LOL
Dave
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
IC:
CX thinks to himself as the amulets are
distributed. "Magic amulet? It’s uncomfortable to just accept it, but, my
own suit operates off Aetheric principles that most modern scientists call
bunk. If there exists an extra
dimensional energy that interacts with our own reality but is nearly
undetectable by normal means, then there can certainly be manipulation of other
unseen forces yet to be discovered or explained by science. I suppose that many scientists would call my
Aetheric Generator a magic trick. I felt
that demon lord touch my mind from another plane of existence. Whether it is several invisible energy
sources or real magic, the fact is that it exists. Like all reality, I'm stuck with it. Time to just deal with it and move
on." CX accepts and dons the
amulet. He watches Red hawk close his
eyes and concentrate. His amulet falls
into nothingness, just as Dr. Arcane had said it would. CX follows suit and is intrigued when his
amulet, too, has seemed to vanish.
"Thought controlled energy manipulation... Not that different than my own Synaptic
Interface Circuit. I'll have to study
this amulet, in detail, later..."
***
As the light show holds him, momentarily, in
the spotlight, CX is amazed at Dr. Arcane's insight. He thinks, "Well, he has amulets that
can go invisible when you want them to.
I suppose it would be just as easy to read our thoughts. If you are reading my mind, Sir, then you
know that I am only protecting my identity so that I can do good." With that, CX fills his mind with complex
equations that he visualizes in front of himself. Keeping his mind occupied, his heart comes to
a dramatic conclusion...
Dave
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
After accepting the amulet from Dr. Arcane,
Starbolt thinks to himself "Abra-Cadabra, disappearus-nowus. Cool,
looks like it has faded away." He listens as one by one all are bathed in
the Doctors light and are scanned for whatever "It Factor" that is
necessary to lead this team. When the beam lands on Red Hawk, and proclaims
that he has been chosen, Starbolt thinks "He seemed a bit reserved on our
mission, but that may be a good thing. Maybe a leader who is not to quick to fight,
when strategy would be better is what this team needs."
When Red Hawk returns and sits beside him, he
will reply to his statement, "Maybe, or it may simply be a focus for the
other items. Congratulations on the leadership position. You can count on me
to, I got your back."
OOC: more to come with more role-play,
Jamey
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
The magical beam focused on the shadows where
the Archer was standing.
“Ah, this one has what I am looking forward
but he is not prepared to step into the light”
<Archer: IC> David gently took the
amulet from the mystic guardian and though he no longer had access to his chi
as he once had, he could still sense its arcane power. Alien dimensions ...
alien worlds? This is not why I left behind the Temple and my so-called
Destiny. I belong here on Earth, hunting in the shadows. It is here in
Megalopolis alleys and backstreets I can do the most good. Starting with
Oracle's lead on a Pentacle cell here in the city.
As the Doctor's beam plays across him and he
hears the Doctors judgment he nods at the elder vigilante’s wisdom. "Thank
you. You are right sir. It is not my time to join the Guardians today. There
are other fronts in this battle and I must remain in Megalopolis to fight them.
If the war goes ill and I am needed again as at Stonehenge I will be there if
needed." The shadows slip around the dark archer as Doctor Arcane's mystic
beam slides to the next Guardian.
<OOC: Side shot to soon follow>
John
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Does Archer give the amulet back, keep it but
not wear it, or wears it?
Thanks
Tom
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Archer IC: Archer will slip the amulet in a
pocket for now fully expecting Dr. Arcane to ask David to return it before he
leaves the mansion.
John
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Thunderhead:
OOC: Nice job, Tom, as always!
Very cool, DWayne! Wish I could react in
character to that!
IC:
Thunderhead accepted the magical amulet and
inspected it with care. (OOC: Archaeology skill: What culture/time period is
this from?)
When the responsibility of leadership passed
over him, Thunderhead was relieved. When
it landed upon Red Hawk, the man of yesterday was surprised. He hadn't expected
to serve with, let alone under, an automaton. The future's surprises seemed
without end.
If any of the strange denizens of the 21st
century engaged him, Thunderhead would respond with interest and courtesy. If left to his own devices, the historian in
him gave him no choice but to continue absorbing the wonders of this building's
collection. But before long, he was beginning to grow impatient. He was sent
here for a purpose.
When all talk was finished, Thunderhead had
but one question: "How soon can we get to Easter Island?"
Jeff
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Black Orchid took the amulet and put it
on. "Oh no! it works too well" she joked, a smile appearing on her
face moments before all of her disappeared altogether. She quickly reappears
and then says to the others, "Sorry couldn't help myself. I think some of
you might not know that I can now turn myself invisible, at least for a little
while, and that's how I was able to sneak in and do so much damage to the
tower. I figured a demonstration was better than just telling you." She
then makes the amulet disappear on its own. "That, and I wanted to see the
effect on the amulet without having to wait for the heat of the battle."
Marc
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Considering how long the last one hundred
plus years had been, the last week should have been gone by in a flash. But the
days had dragged on, with endless poking and prodding from one type of doctor
and another, followed by countless questions from one type of lawman and
another.
All the Kid had wanted to do was eat and
sleep. Well, it wasn't all he wanted to do, but after all this time, it was a
start. He guessed that he had eventually satisfied the procession of lawmen
that he was telling the truth, even if they weren't satisfied with the truth he
was telling. Eventually he'd been handed off to Delta, and from Delta to Doctor
Avery; for help "getting settled", he said.
The Kid wasn't interesting in resettlement,
so much as he just wanted to get out from all the artificial lights and
concrete and feel some fresh air on his face and grass under his boots. The
Doctor and his granddaughter had been nice enough, letting him bed down on what
he'd come to call the "back acre", and spending time talking to him
about the changes that had happened to the world during the time he'd spent in
Hell.
The mottled grey Mustang raised his head and
snorted at the cowboy, sending sulfurous smoke curling from each nostril. The
Kid shook his head and settled further back against the big oak he sat against.
"Little early to be gettin' restless,
isn't it, y'old broomtail?" The Kid took a cheroot from his shirt pocket,
and lit the hard, thin cigar with a match struck against his boot. "We
been riding for over a century, and right now, I'm just as happy sleeping out
here in the grass as I would be in bed at some fancy San Francisco hotel."
The cowboy drew on the cigar, then exhaled
the smoke through his nose. “Course, we don’t want to overstay our welcome. Doc
Avery and his folks have been mighty kind, but we’re gonna have to find some
honest work for ourselves.”
He took a long while to stare up through the
trees. “Truth be told, though, I don’t know who’d be fool enough hire on a
couple of curiosities like us.”
Joe
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks for the extension Tom
<Centurion X: IC> He slowly lifts the
crafted technology from his head to reveal the face of Alexander DeBrandt,
owner of DBI and the man convicted for his crimes as Devastator.
<DarkStar: IC response and actions>
Joshua watches as CX lifts the helmet revealing his identity as the
multi-billionaire industrialist Alexander DeBrandt. Has Gaunt lost his mind? I
can't believe Huffington has sanctioned this. Samuels yes but Huffington? I
knew CX was tied to DeBrandt; I just had no clue how close that tie was. His
initial shock subsides and CX continues his impassioned explanation, Joshua's
hyper-intellect starts fitting various other pieces of information together.
That explains the DoD's 'invitation' to bid on several defense contracts that
until recently belonged to DeBrandt Industries. Samuel's apparent hostility
about what happened at Stonehenge. He's trying to use CX's actions as a reason
to break DeBrandt Industries ... but why?
Patiently he waits for DeBrandt to finish.
Turning to Dr. Arcane, Joshua ask "Doc, I assume you're his sponsor with
the DSA? Same as when Adamas and I started out?" Then looking back to
DeBrandt, "You have an opportunity here, don't blow it with false heroics.
When you're in the Domain I strongly suggest you watch Starbolt and Adamas,
they're actions exemplify how a hero is suppose to act. Listen to Black Orchid
and Thunderhead. She is smart as they come and he has experience of the past we
can all learn from." ... nodding to Red Hawk, " ... and our young
android friend here has recently tapped into potential even he was unaware of.
He will lead you well."
A heavy sigh, trust comes every bit as hard
for him as Alex himself just admitted to. "You should know, StarCorp has
been invited to bid on several defense contracts that belonged to DeBrandt. I
plan taking the lead on as many of those contracts as possible. It's up to you
but I'm offering to buy those divisions of DeBrandt and keeping those workers
employed if you're willing to sell. You won't make a profit, but the liquidity
offers you a chance to reinvest in new projects. Personally I've been thinking
of looking for a partner to enlarge and upgrade a number of the company’s
aerospace divisions, particularly for a couple satellite and StarDagger
projects. "
<Starbolt: IC> "Maybe, or it may
simply be a focus for the other items. Congratulations on the leadership
position. You can count on me to, I got your back."
<Red Hawk: IC response and actions>
"Thanks SB, I hope I can live up to Doctor Arcane's expectations. Suddenly
have access to ... my predecessor's tactical acumen doesn't give the experience
some of the others have. I'll need everyone's input to make this work."
After the briefing, Chris excuses himself when DarkStar ask he join him with
Dr. Arcane to listen to Centurion X's revelation. The android takes the news
stoically. While not the same, his own past does not allow for him to cast
stones on another's darker past. He will give CX the same opportunity Brian and
Dennis gave him. A chance to prove he is more than his previous actions, that
had chose to stride a different path than his past.
Waiting until Alex and Joshua drift to one
side discussing matters of industry he had less than no knowledge of he
approached the doctor before he disappeared. "Pardon me Doctor Arcane. You
say our first mission is to retrieve the Soul-Scythe from Glenn Jacco. I assume
you have transport to Easter Island for the team? Is Pietor or DarkStar taking
us there? Will they be joining us? What powers does Jacco wield? Is the Scythe
a weapon we can use to destroy Cr’tgerof? He tempted half of our heroes at
Stonehenge and I can only think his power is greater on his own home world . .
. I apologize for asking so many questions but this is so sudden and not what I
expected when I was asked to attend this meeting."
John
------------------------------------------------------------------------
