Able to grab a
spare moment, Jason called his family to ensure that they all made it through
the storm intact. Jason reached his father, Jack Miller II. The family was
okay, all of them had been able to get to safety from the storm. Their home and
offices were able to withstand it with only minimum damage. Wyatt, as he
preferred to be called, was very upset and agitated. He kept asking Jason if he
had been able to examine the Doomsday Robot’s armor and if it had any automated
repair systems. Jason’s dad pleaded with him to investigate and let him know
immediately what he found.
The agitation in
his father's voice caught Jason off guard. While not being the same as when he
was critically injured and necessitated being rebuilt into the man he was now,
it was eerily similar. "Dad, you think that this is linked to the attack
on the company don’t you?" StrikeForce asked. His Dad, ever the scientist,
said "I need proof before I'm prepared to say." StrikeForce thought
for a moment and replied. “Deploy the Sat-Sci drone. I would prefer any more
conversation to be encrypted."
Standing near the
downed robot, the Bionic Brawler awaited the arrival of the drone. Detecting
its approach he directed it to his position. StrikeForce accompanied the drone
as it scanned the robot both internally and externally. The Bionic Brawler
watched the data as it is collected and streamed straight to his Dad's office
at Vanguard Incorporated. "Dad," he replied. "Are you seeing
what I'm seeing?" Wyatt nodding in agreement softly responded. "Yes,
son. It appears whomever built this was given our company’s proprietary
technology to assist in the build." The men both wait thinking what their
next step would be. "I have a briefing to attend. I will contact you as
soon as possible. StrikeForce's out."
As Erdbeben was pulled off to the side by the
press, he was initially excited that his plan of hiding in plain site was
working. As the interview continued, though, he had a moment to consider the
ramifications of these actions. As a result, he clearly identifies that he'd
been granted these powers of vibration allowing him to be particularly
effective against mechanical foes, such as the robot that he'd just helped
defeat. He also revealed that the same event that gave him the vibration
powers, also somehow hardened his cellular structures so that he was more
resistant to damage.
After that, his
answers became much vaguer and less revealing. He did mention that he'd
previously been a medical doctor and that the event that granted his powers was
somehow related to that profession. By the end of the interview, shutterbug
could see that he's visibly nervous and in total, revealed little else.
Seeing that things
were starting to feel under control in the aftermath of the climatic weather
and Doomsday Robot attack Demy glanced over to MISHA. The great Russian robot simultaneously turned
to face Demy. With a slight confident smile, Demy spoke under his breath,
“Otpuskat”. With that, MISHA at once
solid, seemed to immediately blur slightly and then separate into horizontal
lines, each alternating layer sliding left and right further blurring, and
finally turning in black motes that sparked silver. These motes then spun into a short-lived dust
devil type movement as they dissipated into Demy.
With his companion
dismissed and seeing Manta-Man and Patty prepping Skink for EVAC, Demy noticed
Agent America among the CHESS, surrounding supers, first responders, and other
3-letter organizations in the area. “AA! What are you doing here?”
“Rubicon! Front and
center.” Hustling to Agent America,
Rubicon came up to Agent America and snapped to attention. With that, Agent
America slapped Demy in the chest with a legal-size manila folder with official
DOD logo on it. “New orders, son. Demyan Alexseev, as of this moment you are
hereby released from Active Duty from the Super Forces.”
“But, sir, you
don’t want me anymore? Wait – am I being
deported!?”
“At ease,
Demy. Relax, you’re still going to be
held in reserve with the SF. The intent
is to allow you the liberty to help out with this new threat. Congratulations, it seems you’re now a
freshman member of The New Crusaders.”
Before leaving with Skink, Manta-Man called out, “Welcome Rubicon, you
and the rest of this crew will be welcome additions.”, and then quickly flew
off with his charge. Laserfire, who was
smiling brightly talking with Patty Plus gave a momentary glance his way and a
quick nod.
The Cyborg Crusader
introduced himself. "Agent, I am sure that you are already aware, but
allow me to personally introduce myself, StrikeForce, pleased to meet
you." The bionic brawler extends his hand in friendship.
Agent America
accepted the offered hand and shook it as a sign of friendship.
StrikeForce told
Agent America. "Good to meet you again. You look pretty good for a guy
that spent an extended time in the Domain.”
Agent America
replied, “I have to admit there were places in the Domain which weren’t too bad
but nowhere did I really find any company I would wish to see again.”
The Bionic Brawler
said, “I would appreciate it if you sent over all the pertinent information on
our newest member as soon as you can. If he requires any specialized medical
care because of his connection to the bear, I would prefer to know before it is
necessary. You understand me looking out for my team I'm sure."
The Super Spy
nodded. “Here is the contact number for the Super Force’s medical staff. They
are expecting you to contact them and they will transmit the data per your
instructions. There is personal and medical information we can’t send without
Demy’s permission but they will send everything that the law allows.”
“Now with that
formality over with, Demy, I need to show you something.” In one of the CHESS mobile labs, Agent
America presented a familiar looking 3-meter-tall robot. “Da, CyberDoom, built this model at COL
Zaytseyev’s facility, the same place that I was synced with the M.I.S.H.A.
program. For what it’s worth, I know that CyberDoom reports directly to
Zaytseyev and is a sleeper agent who appeared during the Destroyers attack to
steal Megalopolis’s new power core. He’s been doing COL Z’s bidding in America
ever since. He must have been paid by Dr. Apocalypse for his services.”
After a moment,
“I’d like to see if we can still interrogate the Doomsday Robot crew before
they are taken away. I’d specifically
like to know where they were based out of prior to this attack, who recruited them,
and how they were recruited and where they were trained. That might help give insight into some
profiling on how they get these goons.
Let alone possibly see where any next attack maybe be coming from and
when.”
Agent America
nodded that it would be arranged.
Demy said, “I know
CHESS and Black Orchid have done a thorough sweep of the Doomsday Robot, but
has anyone opened this tin can up yet to review its hard drives for data? If
not, I can assist Black Orchid if she’s so inclined.”
Agent America
nodded, “sounds like a good idea. Rubicon you will have to ask her yourself, as
you are both now teammates.”
StrikeForce sat
down to listen to the briefing and attempted to remember all the information
that they were being given.
Agent America’s
tone became serious. “Adamas you have to promise me that you will stay for the
entire briefing and you won’t leave without the rest of the New Crusaders.
Promise me.”
Adamas looked at
his old friend, “I will stay with the team.
I’ve learned my lesson about striking out on my own”, thinking back on
his own adventures, and how others got hurt because he wasn’t there.
Agent America
looked Adamas directly in the eyes and said.”The super team that CHESS has
under surveillance falls directly into the motivation of Power/Control. Their
members have different characteristics but share the same motive”.
“They are the
Destroyers.”
“I got lucky last
time, but I’ll be ready for them this time, and I won’t be alone again.” Adamas
said.
While interesting
on its own, the different types of and reasons for their actions and costumed
identity. (Especially Spyder, whom StrikeForce's had barely beaten, and had
been his toughest opponent as a superhero).
It was when they
are told that The Destroyers are working with/for Dr. Apocalypse, that made him
lean forward in his chair. Nudging his friend, he asked Dr. Wildman.
"Didn't know about this when you called him out huh?!"
William sat on his
chair holding his golden helm on his lap having transformed the stag horns to
ram's horns. The staff stood upright, literally planted in the ground magically
producing a variety of berries and nuts that Wildman thoughtfully munched upon
during the briefing.
William piled a few
in his hand and offered them to StrikeForce as he answered: "Nope. Still
would have done it though. He was just trying to bully us, psyche us out. He
didn't, we won pretty easily, gathered a few allies and morale is high. It's a
win in my book...for the moment at least.
“I have to say I'm
impressed with the psych profiling. From my perspective the man's an alpha
predator, a lion or a killer whale if you like. He wasn't expecting to lose
quite so badly so the next step sounds like he's gathering his pride or pod
ready for the hunt. He's provoked us, tested us...and we haven't been found
wanting, not yet anyway. But this isn't his end game; a set of islands. No he
wants to be the top dog...or cat...or giant aquatic mammal.
“He probably thinks
it's his destiny to rule over us...to defeat us technologically, mystically,
whateverly...it's sad really. That's the problem with discontentment and power.
An animal knows the limits of its territory...I suspect he literally thinks the
sky’s the limit and from what I gather from Adamas he was once a nice chap...
“My experience is
that alpha predators tend to be alpha for only a short time before some other
wannabe alpha comes along and takes over the pride. That's the short falling of
our little magic world...black, white or grey...always another Alpha in the
wings. That's why I'm green...and the fact that there are less carbon
emissions!"
Dr Wildman gave a
little chuckle to himself, and then pointed to the front row of the briefing.
"Did you see
that Agent America keep Adamas' gaze when he talked about these Destroyers? It
sounds to me like they might be Apocalypse's pride. Now if I were a rival lion
I'd be looking for a way to take out the rival pride before they can organize
themselves...a pre-emptive strike or ambush as we animal people like to call
it. If they are his pride then they might even know where the good Dr is."
William ate another
berry - "Why don't we go and find these Destroyers and ask them?"
"StrikeForce tells Dr. Wildman.” I agree
that the Islands that he is asking for is merely to gain a foothold here and
establish his country so-to-speak, before pushing for more. He had to settle
for a lesser title before consolidating his power, and battling to be the
Sorcerer Supreme. He even studied under the former holder of that title.
Probably using it as an opportunity to scout his future opponent, but since Dr.
Arcane Sr. couldn't fight him, he knew that his apprentice would be a lesser
challenge. I know that Adamas thinks that he used to be nice, but I'm thinking
that this is just who he really is, now that the need for pleasantries has
passed." StrikeForce accepted the nuts and berries offered by Dr. Wildman.
"I'm not
opposed to going after the Destroyers, but let’s see what information on their
powers/weaknesses that we can find. We will need as many advantages as we can
get." He waited for Doc's reply.
"That makes
sense." Dr Wildman looked at the gathered throng.
"My hope is
that the intelligence is being shared amongst the international community...I
suspect this isn't just a local problem."
"Anyway...all
that aside, how are you doing? This is quite a responsibility on your
shoulders. Talk about a baptism of fire to start your leadership!"
William waited to
see if StrikeForce opened up...
"I agree Doc, I don't believe that it is
a local program either, at least not long term. We are just among his first
steps on the road to World Domination. I am wondering if there is something
special about your Steading that he needs, or is it possible that this is
related to Star Corp being on the Islands? Does he need something at either
place to advance his cause, or is it personal to strike at either DarkStar,
because he insulted him at some point, or is he another way to get at Dr.
Arcane Sr., DarkStar was part of the Quest, and had numerous interactions with
Apocalypse, has anyone reached out to him to find out what Intel he
possesses?"
StrikeForce took a
moment to steady himself internally before continuing. " William",
the Cyborg Crusader started, then pauses before resuming. "I have a lot on
my plate, which is for sure; thankfully I am surrounded by good people. You
seem to be pretty good at reading me, so I will fill you in on something that I
just discovered. Someone involved in this whole affair is also responsible for
the attack at Vanguard that critically injured me and necessitated my being
rebuilt into the man you see before you, and costing me 5 years of time. Time
when I was in cryogenic freezing and going through the long process of being
put back together. I suffered severe neurological trauma, a t.b.I.(traumatic
brain injury) that destroyed my emotional attachment to any and everyone I had
known up to that point. My emotional responses to things are at best a work in
process. There are gaps in my memory, things with my family that I no longer
remember. I have had to restart new relationships with my own family, with
varying degrees of success. I have told you all of that so that you can
understand this. I used a drone, a design that my father and I had been working
on as a way of bringing the lab into the field to study the robot we fought,
inside and out. Using the information that we gathered, it is clear that parts
of it are intellectual property of our company that was stolen from us. The
attack was the way to get it, or was a cover for industrial espionage that had
already acquired the tech, and was looking to cover their identity. So, this is
bound to get very personal for me."
StrikeForce waited
a few minutes for his friend to digest the buffet of information that he had
given him before continuing. "I am hoping that the Skink is o.k., I had
worried about taking a teen into battle, but Manta-Man had backed him. I hope
that these new members are ready for something this big, Heck, I hope that we
all are. The new members do add a lot of fire power to the team. I hope that it
is enough."
"I am
wondering what you think about all this information that I have just dumped into
your lap?"
"So, some of the tech used within that
metallic monolith was stolen in the attack at Vanguard that caused your
injuries? Yep I can see that this whole affair is getting personal.
“I'm so sorry; I
had no idea of the extent of your injuries. The physical ones are tough enough,
let alone the trauma of losing some your emotional cognizance."
William let the
silence hang for a bit.
"I appreciate
your openness with me. You quite literally have 'skin in the game' with this
one.
I have no idea who
Dark Star is and I doubt the Steading has any strategic value unless he is
looking to make use of wild unicorns, harpies, hippogryphs or pixies! I really
must try and round the up soon or it's going to look like a fantasy Jurassic
park very soon!"
"I'll check in
on Skink in a bit, he's a robust kid."
In the briefing,
James was once again visibly excited just at the prospect of having been
invited in the first place. With much of his trepidation and nervousness now
forgotten, most of the information provide still went over his head. Since he'd
been more focused on his work over the last several years, he'd not paid much
attention to any news that may have been made public on the events that were
revealed.
During the briefing, Patty seemed almost
pressed back in her chair by the weight of all the information being shared.
"Um," she
said once or twice. "Er," she mumbled to herself.
“I wonder if we are
going to be gone for a while?” she thought to herself. “Who will feed her cat?”
Instead of saying
anything, she simply looked around the room after the dramatic Destroyers
announcement. This was too big for her. She has no clue what to offer.
StrikeForce
received a data burst from a Super Force’s transmission. StrikeForce scanned
the transmitted data
Demyan Alexeev’s Background:
Demy entered into
the Russian military to be a Spetznaz Commando. The Russian Army had other
plans. He instead was entered into a
secret weapons program to become a "drone pilot" that neurological connected him with nano tech in
the form of a great brown bear, MISHA. The programs OIC, COL Zaytseyev, pushed
Demy and MISHA. During a FTX on an iceberg in the Bearing Straight iceberg,
Demy was knocked unconscious and both he and MISHA were severely damaged by the
blast throwing them into the sea. The
damage integrated and changed both Demy and MISHA, bonding them further. MISHA saved Demy life by swimming them to
shore in AK where MISHA disappeared for repair.
Demy was found barely alive by a US Coast Guard Cutter and returned to
the lower 48. The US has offered Demy asylum in return for the use of he and
his abilities.
M.I.S.H.A.’S background:
Military Integrated
Special Human Assault, or M.I.S.H.A. for short, is the Russian military's
attempt at nano tech synced with human 'Pilots'. When not absorbed into its host pilot Demy, MISHA
appears as an obvious massive technological construct shaped after a bear with
advanced canon on its back. The technology was developed by COL Zaytseyev, the
lead scientist and Officer-in-Charge of special weapons research. All prior human test subjects had been
severely damaged or killed in previous testing until Demyan Alexeev was
recruited. Demy was badly hurt in the
syncing with MISHA, but ultimately was a success. The two proved exceedingly capable as well as
compatible as proven on progressive training exercises. Zaytseyev is highly intelligent, surrounded
by Russia’s military might and technology, but also extremely manic and
obsessive.
When the briefing was
over, StrikeForce told Dr. Wildman. "I am going to ask Agent America about
DarkStar."
Moving in a
straight and direct manner to interact with Agent America, StrikeForce floated
his ideas about DarkStar, Star Corp, and Dr. Apocalypse, to see if the agent
has any information or theories that he would share with them.
Agent America
paused, “I am sure Dr Apocalypse is doing this to aggravate DarkStar. They
loved to snipe at each other. But I think there is more to it. In a past
mission, DarkStar had teleported away with the Orbs of the Dhole. Doing so
broke the spell on the Star-Devourer, sending it back to the Domain {GM Note: see Quest Issues 8-13}. To my
knowledge DarkStar is still safeguarding them to this day. Maybe by securing
ownership of the island that StarCorp is on, Dr Apocalypse hoped to gain
control of the Orbs.”
Later, The Black
Orchid approached StrikeForce. "Earlier you mentioned the invisible plane
back at Easter Island. That was quite an effort on my part, but if you think it
is a good idea, I could do some research to make it more reliable or at least
less exhausting for me to pull it off."
"Black
Orchid" The Cyborg Crusader replied. "I am trying to think of any
advantage that we can use, because I think that we need every one that we can
get, and while I don't claim to be as smart as you are, I am a scientist as
well. I have been developing a way to hide myself from electronic observation,
maybe between the two of us we can come up with something that will tax your
energy less."
Rubicon said
"Black Orchid, da? We must talk some time, you and I. I think you will
find us ... interesting."
"You are
correct", she replied, "I would love the chance to have a look at
M.I.S.H.A. in more detail at some time. It, I mean, he, correct? Gives me some
ideas." If there was other meaning in Rubicon's comment, The Black Orchid
appeared to have missed it completely.
StrikeForce said,
“Adamas, if you could get Dr. Arcane to give us any Intel that he possesses on
Apocalypse. We would definitely be grateful."
After his short
talk with Dr. Arcane, Adamas returned.
“He had little to add, and suggested we follow the cyber trail, which it
sounds like our companions are already following.”
Demy reflected on
Agent Davidson’s definitions and breakdown of Supervillains characteristics and
motives. Very helpful and gave Demy
potential insight into COL Z’s manic and obsessive nature. “I may have to put
more of this down in my journal later”, Demy thought.
Knight Demaris {GM Note: Last seen in Archer Issues 10
& 11} approached Demy. “It is time for your interview with the Robot
Crewmembers.”
Demy asked where they
were based out of prior to this attack. The crew members provided their home
addresses which were located in a rural part of Megalopolis outside of Our Fair
City. A quick check by CHESS confirmed they were telling the truth. When
pressed to reveal where CyberDoom’s base was, they refused. CHESS and Demy
weren’t able to convince them to give up their creator’s trust.
They explained that
CyberDoom created him and they continued to work for him. CyberDoom selected
them to be the crew for the Doomsday Robot.
When asked about
who trained them to perform their duties on the robot? They gladly told Demy,
it was the Iron Maiden of the Destroyers.
When pressed about
where the next attacks were coming from and who would be performing them. Each
one of the crewmembers in turned smiled and said, “You will have to ask the
Destroyers about that”.
When the interview
was finished, Crew Commander Caulfield said, “It was a pleasure meeting you
Demy, and MISHA earlier, especially MISHA. Meeting MISHA felt like meeting a
long lost cousin for the first time. After all, we share the same roots of
technology. CyberDoom wanted me to pass along his regrets for missing meeting you
both but he looks forward to the day when the three of you can meet.”
After the interview
Remy was deep in thought, Agent America came up to stand next to him. “Ruble for your thoughts...?” Agent America
said. “Da, COL Zaytseyev will want
M.I.S.H.A. back. Knowing him, he will
not stop until he has his precious technology returned.” Demy said.
“Well, if that’s
the case,” Agent America said with sigh, “he’ll know where you are now. Unit
One and Shutterbug just broadcast this event all over the world. He’s
definitely got your position at the moment.”
Demy said, “He knew
I couldn’t stay out of an event like this. If that is the case, then COL
Zaytseyev has gained 3 things:
First, he’s
obviously figured out where MISHA and I am.
Secondly, he has
indirectly struck American soil in an attempt to weaken the hated enemy of
Mother Russia.
And lastly, it’s
possible that if COL Z lent CyberDoom into this attack that he has garnered
potential indebtedness or favor from Dr. Apocalypse.”
With a pensive
look, Demy turn his head to look at the Star Spangled Super to his left, “So,
sir, you’ll excuse me if I’m anxious to get on with this new group and get the
next ride out of here.”.
And then with
sudden burst that draws the attention of all those around, “O NET! My new
JEEP!”, and quickly ran out the door.
{GM Note: This next section is going to mention several
of the governmental organizations in Megalopolis universe. If you are
unfamiliar with them, look under Dr. Avery’s Library for 02. Government Organizations
of Megalopolis}
StrikeForce
approached Agent America, and said "I would appreciate any Intel you have
on the Destroyers, my people and I need to be as ready as possible."
Agent America
reviewed all the Intel that CHESS had gathered today. The Destroyers have their
headquarters on the top three floors of the Montuori Trade and Industries
Building in Center City. Coordinates and directions will be provided when you
want them. I believe with the data that Black Orchid, CHESS, and the other
teams were able to get from the robot and the crewmembers there is enough
probable cause to get a warrant to search their HQ for information related to
this attack and the future attacks mentioned in Dr. Apocalypse’s broadcast. Do
you want CHESS Agent Prince to get the warrant for you?”
Opening another set
of files, Agent America said,
”According to
GIANT, the leader of the Destroyers, Annihilator, is an alien. He is a Psynax.
He has been exiled to Earth. His powers are a power blast that with additional
effort can be focused to disintegrate objects. He can fly at super speeds with
high reflexes. He is able to withstand and recover from severe damage. He is
non-thematic.
“According to FISH,
the deputy leader, Shapeshifter, is an interdimensional being from the Domain.
She is one of its creatures known as a Changeling. She came from one of the
previous invasions, not the last one that I and Adamas were involved in.” Agent
America said, “She has transformation abilities including stretching powers.
She is non-thematic.
“Electrocutioner
was participating in a weird cultic ritual of the Tseital Indians of Campeche,
Mexico. The ritual was to discover his “Totem”. The Tseital Shamen proclaimed
that lightning was the white guest’s Totem. He became infused with the power of
his Totem. Electrocutioner has lighting control and teleportation abilities. He
is thematic.
“According to
MEDUSA, Behemoth ,Hyram Forbes, was dishonorably discharged from the Freedom
Brigade. He served time in Ft. Leavenworth army prison where he volunteered to
undergo experimental testing by the Bio-Research division of the Echidna
Institute. The DARPA research contract was the latest attempt by the military
to discover a super-serum to create super-powered soldiers. Hyram underwent a
weird transformation into Behemoth. He is non-thematic”
Agent America handed
StrikeForce a photo of Behemoth striking his superior, Arbalest of the Freedom
Brigade. This is the event which led to his dishonorable discharge.
“Ratman, Edward
Fink, was a medical intern for Echidna Institute. During the DARPA research
testing at Ft. Leavenworth, Mr. Fink attempted to create a super-serum using
RNA extracts from laboratory mice. The DARPA Program Manager and Administrative
Contracting Officer (ACO) rejected his research, both claiming the US Military didn’t
want soldiers with rat powers. Since their rejection prevented him from
administering his super-serum on a volunteer, he used himself for a guinea pig
and obtained the proportional strengths and abilities of a rat. He is thematic
so future additions to his ability will be rat-like is appearance.
“According to
CHESS, The Iron Maiden actively engages in industrial espionage. She is
believed to be stolen from Manning Enterprises, Yasmashito Electronics, Emerson
Electronics, and DeBrandt Industries. She specializes in stealing cybernetic
technologies and intellectual property. There is the possibility that other
thefts have occurred that CHESS is unaware of. Using this stolen technology she
has built her Iron Maiden power suit which provides her with super-strength and
super-leaping abilities and a Disruptor Staff, an energy staff. CHESS confirms
that the majority of the Doomsday Robot is her design, using her stolen tech
with help from CyberDoom. She is non-thematic.
“According to FBI
PBSU, as written by Dr. Reed Spencer, little is known identity or origin of the
supercriminal identified as Chrysalis. Chrysalis wears a power suit which gives
the visual impression the wearer is female. The power suit provides insect
mimicking powers including Armor, Wall Climbing, projectile darts which have a
paralytic effect, hand stingers and a projectile encasing fluid, which could be
the source of the chosen ID. The suit increases her speed and dexterity.
Chrysalis is thematic toward the suit only mimicking insect powers.”
After the briefing,
James was almost giddy with the excitement of going on another 'adventure' with
the New Crusaders. That excitement came to a head when he just couldn't refrain
from bursting out with, "So, what do we do now?!?"
<Turns and Actions due November 30th >
After Battle Conditions (Mighty Protectors character
data):
Adamas Hit
Points: 22 Power Points: 74 Healed 2 HP
Black Orchid Hit
Points: 24 Power Points: 92
StrikeForce Hit Points: 28 Power
Points: 93 Healed 8 HP
Manta-Man Hit
Points: 7 Power
Points: 66 Healed 2 HP
Dr. Wildman Hit
Points: 12 Power Points: 60
Demolisher Hit
Points: 30 Power Points: 74
Patty Plus Hit
Points: 15 Power Points: 60
Laserfire Hit
Points: 8 Power
Points: 49
Erdbeben Hit
Points: 46 Power Points: 66
Rubicon Hit
Points: 20 Power Points: 66
MISHA Hit
Points: 41 Power Points: 101
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Great Issue!!
Starting with the cover, and going through the wealth of information, the links
to the past. I will go back and re-read the back issues that are linked to it.
Definitely worth the Wait!
Best wishes,
Jamey
----------------------------------------------------------------------
StrikeForce has the
idea that his father is worried that some of the technology that was stolen in
the attack on His family’s lab, may have ended up in the robot that they
fought. I am going in that direction in my reply, unless you think that I am
totally off base.
Thanks,
Jamey
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
That is exactly
where I was going with.
Thanks
Tom
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Tom,
I second Jamey.
I just read through
and need to digest it all along with the background references.
Definitely worth
the wait. No issue on that from me. Enjoying things so much.
I look forward to
RP this out further after I get more time to review.
Best to you all.
Greg
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Stunning sir!
I'll have to read
it multiple times and cross reference with the back issues.
Dr Wildman is back,
and this time he has superpowers! Yay!
Stay safe everyone
and have fun with your next Presidential debate...that last one was really
uncomfortable viewing; and that's from this side of the Atlantic ocean!
Steve
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The agitation in
his father's voice caught Jason off guard. While not being the same as when he
was critically injured and necessitated being rebuilt into the man he is now,
it was eerily similar. "Dad, you think that this is linked to the attack
on the company don’t you?" StrikeForce asked. His Dad, ever the scientist,
said "I need proof before I'm prepared to say." StrikeForce thought
for a moment and replied. “Deploy the Sat-Sci drone. I would prefer any more conversation
to be encrypted."
StrikeForce tells
Agent America. "Good to meet you again. You look pretty good for a guy
that spent an extended time in the Domain. I would appreciate it if you sent
over all the pertinent information on our newest member as soon as you can. If
he requires any specialized medical care because of his connection to the bear,
I would prefer to know before it is necessary. You understand me looking out
for my team I'm sure."
OOC: The Sat-Sci
drone is an advanced drone that they had been working on to provide an in the
field analysis, using the most complete 'full lab capabilities' on site. It
could transmit the information back to the lab through a secure connection
beamed through a L.E.O.(Low Earth Orbiting) satellite that Vanguard owns.
Tom, I hope that
this is o.k. I'm trying to slowly build up StrikeForce's family connections and
the Vanguard Company. You said it was o.k. to world build. If this has changed,
or I am overstepping, please let me know. If you want to tell me what my
boundaries are, I will stay within them.
Jamey
----------------------------------------------------------------------
As Erdbeben is pulled off to the side by the
press, he is initially excited that his plan of hiding in plain site is
working. As the interview continues, though, he has a moment to consider the
ramifications of this actions. As a result, he clearly identifies that he'd
been granted these powers of vibration allowing him to be particularly
effective against mechanical foes, such as the robot that he'd just helped
defeat. He also reveals that the same event that gave him the vibration powers,
also somehow hardened his cellular structures so that he was more resistant to
damage.
After that, his
answers become much vaguer and less revealing. He does mention that he'd
previously been a medical doctor and that the event that granted his powers was
somehow related to that profession. By the end of the interview, you can see
that he's visibly nervous and in total, reveals little else.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the briefing,
James was once again visibly excited just at the prospect of having been
invited in the first place. With much of his trepidation and nervousness now
forgotten, most of the information provide still went over his head. Since he'd
been more focused on his work over the last several years, he'd not paid much
attention to any news that may have been made public on the events that were
revealed.
By the end of the
briefing, he was almost giddy with the excitement of going on another
'adventure' with the New Crusaders. That excitement came to a head when he just
couldn't refrain from bursting out with, "So, what do we do now?!?"
Paul
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Tom,
Who all is
attending the briefing? I wasn't exactly sure if StrikeForce's was included, or
not.
Jamey
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Every one of the PCs can attend the briefings.
It is up to the players to decide whether they are there or not.
Tom
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Well, StrikeForce will definitely be there. As
team leader, I can't think of any reason that he wouldn't want to be there.
Jamey
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Standing near the downed robot, the Bionic
Brawler awaits the arrival of the drone. Detecting its approach he directs It
to his position. StrikeForce's accompanies the drone as it scans the robot both
internally and externally. The Bionic Brawler watches the data as it is
collected and streamed straight to his Dad's office at Vanguard Incorporated.
"Dad," he replies. "Are you seeing what I'm seeing?" Wyatt
nodding in agreement softly responds. "Yes, son. It appears whomever built
this was given our company’s proprietary technology to assist in the
build." The men both wait thinking what their next step would be. "I
have a briefing to attend. I will contact you as soon as possible. StrikeForce's
out."
The Briefing.
StrikeForce sits
down to listen to and attempts to remember all the information that they were
being given. While interesting on its own, the different types of and reasons
for their actions and costumed identity.(Especially Spyder, whom StrikeForce's
had barely beaten, and had been his toughest opponent as a superhero) It is
when they are told that The Destroyers are working with/for Dr. Apocalypse,
that makes him lean forward in his chair. Nudging his friend, he asks Dr. Wildman.
"Didn't know about this when you called him out huh?!" StrikeForce
approaches Agent America, and says "I would appreciate any Intel you have
on the Destroyers, my people and I need to be as ready as possible."
OOC: StrikeForce
will try to access any information from his online link up. It probably won't
be as in depth, but there may be something of a personal nature/connection that
could assist us.
OOC:Tom, if you
need anything else from me, please let me know.
Jamey
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Nudging his friend, he asks Dr. Wildman.
"Didn't know about this when you called him out huh?!"
William sat on his
chair holding his golden helm on his lap having transformed the stag horns to
ram's horns. The staff stood upright, literally planted in the ground magically
producing a variety of berries and nuts that Wildman thoughtfully munched upon
during the briefing.
William piled a few
in his hand and offered them to StrikeForce as he answered: "Nope. Still
would have done it though. He was just trying to bully us, psyche us out. He
didn't, we won pretty easily, gathered a few allies and morale is high. It's a
win in my book...for the moment at least.
I have to say I'm
impressed with the psych profiling. From my perspective the man's an alpha
predator, a lion or a killer whale if you like. He wasn't expecting to lose
quite so badly so the next step sounds like he's gathering his pride or pod
ready for the hunt. He's provoked us, tested us...and we haven't been found wanting,
not yet anyway. But this isn't his end game; a set of islands. No he wants to
be the top dog...or cat...or giant aquatic mammal.
He probably thinks
it's his destiny to rule over us...to defeat us technologically, mystically,
whateverly...it's sad really. That's the problem with discontentment and power.
An animal knows the limits of its territory...I suspect he literally thinks the
sky’s the limit and from what I gather from Adamas he was once a nice chap...
My experience is
that alpha predators tend to be alpha for only a short time before some other
wannabe alpha comes along and takes over the pride. That's the short falling of
our little magic world...black, white or grey...always another Alpha in the
wings. That's why I'm green...and the fact that there are less carbon
emissions!"
Dr Wildman gave a
little chuckle to himself, and then pointed to the front row of the briefing.
"Did you see
that Agent America keep Adamas' gaze when he talked about these Destroyers? It
sounds to me like they might be Apocalypse's pride. Now if I were a rival lion
I'd be looking for a way to take out the rival pride before they can organize
themselves...a pre-emptive strike or ambush as we animal people like to call
it. If they are his pride then they might even know where the good Dr is."
William ate another
berry - "Why don't we go and find these Destroyers and ask them?"
Steve
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"StrikeForce tells Dr. Wildman.” I agree
that the Islands that he is asking for is merely to gain a foothold here and
establish his country so-to-speak, before pushing for more. He had to settle
for a lesser title before consolidating his power, and battling to be the
Sorcerer Supreme. He even studied under the former holder of that title.
Probably using it as an opportunity to scout his future opponent, but since Dr.
Arcane Sr. couldn't fight him, he knew that his apprentice would be a lesser
challenge. I know that Adamas thinks that he used to be nice, but I'm thinking
that this is just who he really is, now that the need for pleasantries has
passed." StrikeForce will accept the nuts and berries offered by Dr.
Wildman.
"I'm not
opposed to going after the Destroyers, but let’s see what information on their
powers/weaknesses that we can find. We will need as many advantages as we can
get." He waits for Doc's reply.
Jamey
--------------------------------------------------------------------
On world building I
have a few rules:
·
It can’t give you powers not on your
character sheet. It can add flavor to your existing powers but it can’t give
you more
·
Magic is the impossible and science is
the repeatable. So Magic can't be mass reproduced and science is about mass
production. No one person that isn't immortal can be knowledgeable in both.
·
Minor changes to the world are allow
(e.g. Your Company is one of the largest in the world) but not Major (You can
create a Fleet of Spacecrafts with teleportation capability)
·
If your world building increased the
power level of the campaign all NPC will have their power levels increased,
especially the villains.
·
World Building can't limit the
randomness or fun of the game. This is a game that represents Comic Books.
World Building can't eliminate this or change its nature.
·
PCs are more capable than NPCs, if you
leave the GM to accomplish tasks with NPCs instead of the PCs doing it, don't
expect the NPCs to do it effectively or creatively as the PCs would.
That is all I can
think of right now. If I remember others I will send them along.
Thanks
Tom
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks for the great write up Tom.
Would it be ok to
get Demy/Rubicon and MISHA's characters in the next issue and/or on the
Megalopolis web site?
As for my turn, I
have the following questions:
- Agent America is
advocating for my inclusion into the New Crusaders. Would I still be considered a part of the
Super Forces or was that an initial back story?
- Is there further
reference to Research Station MegaGamma I can read up on? Is this a location
I'm familiar with related to Siberdum?
- When in the CHESS
mobile lab to look at the Cyberion Robot and the connection with the Siberdum/
Cyberdoom, do I know to what extent this project would have been with my
Nemesis: COL Zaytseyez who runs that research facility?
- If there is any
additional questioning I / we can do to the Doomsday Robot to find out where
they were based prior to this attack, who recruited them and how they were
recruited, where they were trained, what is the next attack planned, I'd like
to suggest that we get these answers if we haven't been able to get that out of
them yet.
- I need to run and
get my new JEEP secured where I left it.
Can I also use this time to get that squared away? It sounds like we may move on to the either
the Destroyers or the
Demy ponders the
following internally....
"If it is a
direct correlation then I will point this out to the group in my response as
well as give all the insight I have on it's location, known defenses, and
personnel (I assume this was debriefed the US Government/DOD/Super Forces on
all this immediately upon my initially defected). If it is Zayetseyev, as I understand Agent
Davidsons definitions, the COL would be considered having the Mixed
characteristic. While he is a devout
Russian Nationalist and high ranking military status, this only creates the
connection he needs to the facilities, material and monetary resources, science
labs, personnel, testing and freedom to do his research. Some of this research is obviously
quesitionable and immoral. I could do a
who background story on him if necessary, but let me know. All this provides the basis of his extreme
manic and obsessive behavior when he feels he has lack of freedom, power or
resources to continue his next level of scientific advancement, at whatever the
cost.
Motive wise, while
Zaytseyev shows definite signs of psychosis in his grandstanding visionary
research, shows single minded focus related to Mission-oriented obsession, the
Thrill of advancing technology to satisfy his own obsession and Comfort in
knowing he has beaten any other in his advancing science/technology/innovation,
his primary motivation is his NEED for absolute freedom and lack of limitations
granted by having Power/Control. He will
do whatever is necessary to maintain control of his projects and advances. He can't stand limitations and lack of
effort, funds, material, loss of time or, in the case of M.I.S.H.A., losing
Intellectual Property that he finally had success manifesting with a test
subject ( Demy). Given that, it sounds
like he may have given out some of his technology to support Dr.
Apocalypse. But for what gain? Doesn't he already have the all the money,
resources and personnel Russia can bring to bear? Sorry, pun intended. Maybe it wasn't money? Maybe there was some
other trade made? A new level of Power?
Other resources? Something he feels he currently have access to, but will get
it if things are successful?"
Greg
--------------------------------------------------------------------
- Agent America is advocating for my inclusion
into the New Crusaders. Would I still be
considered a part of the Super Forces or was that an initial back story?
GM Response:
Rubicon would be considered no longer on active duty of the Super Forces, he
will become a reservist, like Adamas. Basically the Super Forces is another
source of NPCs you can interact with for down time or if you need research
assistance. I want all the players to have a pool of NPCs to reach out to for
game play. This will be a pool of NPCs for Demy.
- Is there further
reference to Research Station MegaGamma I can read up on? Is this a location
I'm familiar with related to Siberdum?
GM Response:If you
have Judges Guild: The Dungeoneer Issue 13, you can read more. I haven't
published anything on my website as this is the first time I am able to place
hints about this module scenario.
Research Station MegaGamma is an American research facility that develops
power devices for the US Govt and other NATO allied nations. Demy knows that
MISHA is powered by one of their devices, he doesn't know how Colonel Zaytseyev
obtained it and if that was the only one or if he has been able to
obtain more.
- When in the CHESS
mobile lab to look at the Cyberion Robot and the connection with the Siberdum/
CyberDoom, do I know to what extent this project would have been with my
Nemesis: COL Zaytseyev who runs that research facility?
GM Response: You
know that CyberDoom built the first Cyberion in Russia as part of the Siberdum
project in Col. Zaytseyev's research facility. You know that CyberDoom reports
to Col Zaytseyev, even to this day. CyberDoom is a Sleeper Agent that became
active when the events from Quest Issues 16, 16a, and 17. He has been taking
action in America at Zaytseyev's bidding to further his schemes.
- If there is any
additional questioning I / we can do to the Doomsday Robot to find out where
they were based prior to this attack, who recruited them and how they were
recruited, where they were trained, what is the next attack planned,
GM Response: You
are able to question the Android crew with these questions. The Doomsday Robot
is not sentient so questioning is not possible but searching its hard drives
for data stored is possible. Let me know what Demy wants to do and what
information he wants to obtain.
- I'd
like to suggest that we get these answers if we haven't been able to get that
out of them yet.
GM Response: Sure,
if you mean the other players then do it in an email with all the players
copied. If you mean as part of your turn submission then write it up and send.
Please include all the other players in your response to the GM, that way if a
player wants to join in or add to it they can.
- I need to run and
get my new JEEP secured where I left it.
Can I also use this time to get that squared away? It sounds like we may move on to the either
the Destroyers or the
GM Response: Yes,
there is time for that. No one has suggested that the team leave this next
turn. It appears they want to get more information first.
Demy ponders the
following internally....
"If it is a
direct correlation then I will point this out to the group in my response as
well as give all the insight I have on it's location, known defenses, and
personnel
GM Response: No,
Demy doesn't know anything on Research Station MegaGamma except that they
produce some of the best power devices in the world. Demy could share that and
the fact that MISHA is powered by one of their devices if he chooses.
(I assume this was
debriefed the US Government/DOD/Super Forces on all this immediately upon my
initially defected).
GM Response: Yes,
the Super Forces know which includes Agent America but the New Crusaders don't.
There is a chance that CHESS or MEDUSA wasn't told either. Gov't agencies not
sharing with each other and being protective of their turf exists in the
Megalopolis Universe too.
If it is Zaytseyev, as I understand Agent
Davidson’s definitions, the COL would be considered having the Mixed
characteristic. While he is a devout
Russian Nationalist and high ranking military status, this only creates the
connection he needs to the facilities, material and monetary resources, science
labs, personnel, testing and freedom to do his research. Some of this research is obviously questionable
and immoral. I could do a whole
background story on him if necessary, but let me know. All this provides the basis of his extreme
manic and obsessive behavior when he feels he has lack of freedom, power or
resources to continue his next level of scientific advancement, at whatever the
cost.
GM Response: Col Zaytseyev is your nemesis, how much a
background story you want to write is up to you. You're writing it guarantees
that I will portray him correctly. I will bring in as much as I need each issue
filling in blanks as I need to. If you provide the background I will not have
as many blanks to fill and won't risk filling them if a way that doesn't fit
your vision. Currently I see him as a shadowy figure that will sent foe after
foe to capture MISHA but never comes himself. If you believe differently I need
to know that for sure and what you think he will do and how he will do it.
Motive wise, while
Zaytseyev shows definite signs of psychosis in his grandstanding visionary
research, shows single minded focus related to Mission-oriented obsession, the
Thrill of advancing technology to satisfy his own obsession and Comfort in
knowing he has beaten any other in his advancing science/technology/innovation,
his primary motivation is his NEED for absolute freedom and lack of limitations
granted by having Power/Control. He will
do whatever is necessary to maintain control of his projects and advances. He can't stand limitations and lack of
effort, funds, material, loss of time or, in the case of M.I.S.H.A., losing
Intellectual Property that he finally had success manifesting with a test
subject ( Demy). Given that, it sounds
like he may have given out some of his technology to support Dr. Apocalypse. But for what gain? Doesn't he already have the all the money,
resources and personnel Russia can bring to bear? Sorry, pun intended. Maybe it wasn't money? Maybe there was some
other trade made? A new level of Power?
Other resources? Something he feels he currently have access to, but will get
it if things are successful?"
GM Response:
Zaytseyev ordering CyberDoom to do this can accomplish multiple things like to
weaken the enemies of Russia or it could have been to bring M.I.S.H.A. out of
hiding. In the last Issue Unit One has broadcast to the whole world that there
are new Heroes in Megalopolis, which includes Rubicon and MISHA. Shutterbug
would have posted video on them bringing their captured crew member to CHESS.
Col Zaytseyev knew that Demy wouldn't be able to stay away from a threat this
massive so he would have to reveal he was there to help. So Col Zaytseyev
gained 3 things. He has weaken the hated enemy of mother Russia, he has gained
the indebtedness/favor of the new Sorcerer Supreme of Earth, Dr. Apocalypse,
and determined what city that Rubicon and MISHA are hiding in. Not too bad of a
result from his schemes by having CyberDoom assist Pietor.
Tom
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Awesome Tom!
Thank you, see my
responses below...
- Agent America is
advocating for my inclusion into the New Crusaders. Would I still be considered a part of the
Super Forces or was that an initial back story?
GM Response:
Rubicon would be considered no longer on active duty of the Super Forces, he
will become a reservist, like Adamas. Basically the Super Forces is another
source of NPCs you can interact with for down time or if you need research
assistance. I want all the players to have a pool of NPCs to reach out to for
game play. This will be a pool of NPCs for Demy.
Thank you for
clarifying.
- Is there further
reference to Research Station MegaGamma I can read up on? Is this a location
I'm familiar with related to Siberdum?
GM Response: If you
have Judges Guild: The Dungeoneer Issue 13, you can read more. I haven't
published anything on my website as this is the first time I am able to place
hints about this module scenario.
Research Station MegaGamma is an American research facility that
develops power devices for the US Govt and other NATO allied nations. Demy
knows that MISHA is powered by one of their devices, he doesn't know how
Colonel Zaytseyev obtained it and if that was the only one or
if he has been able to obtain more.
Ok, thanks. I'll see if I can look into this more based
on your reference to JG.
- When in the CHESS
mobile lab to look at the Cyberion Robot and the connection with the Siberdum/
CyberDoom, do I know to what extent this project would have been with my
Nemesis: COL Zaytseyev who runs that research facility?
GM Response: You
know that CyberDoom built the first Cyberion in Russia as part of the Siberdum
project in Col. Zaytseyev’s research facility. You know that CyberDoom reports
to Col Zaytseyev, even to this day. CyberDoom is a Sleeper Agent that became
active when the events from Quest Issues 16, 16a, and 17. He has been taking
action in America at Zaytseyev’s bidding to further his schemes.
Ok, I need to
follow up on reading these past Quest issues this weekend, they may help with
my Turn narrative details so this helps.
- If there is any
additional questioning I / we can do to the Doomsday Robot to find out where
they were based prior to this attack, who recruited them and how they were
recruited, where they were trained, what is the next attack planned,
GM Response: You
are able to question the Android crew with these questions. The Doomsday Robot
is not sentient so questioning is not possible but searching its hard drives
for data stored is possible. Let me know what Demy wants to do and what
information he wants to obtain.
Clarification, I
meant to say "...Doomsday Robot crew...", with these questions asked
to them, but the potential to get info from the robot itself as you state is
possibly going on, especially with Black Orchid around? I may vocalize this to the group as an suggestive
assumption.
- I'd
like to suggest that we get these answers if we haven't been able to get that
out of them yet.
GM Response: Sure,
if you mean the other players then do it in an email with all the players
copied. If you mean as part of your turn submission then write it up and send.
Please include all the other players in your response to the GM, that way if a
player wants to join in or add to it they can.
Yes, I will plan on
doing this in my narrative.
- I need to run and
get my new JEEP secured where I left it.
Can I also use this time to get that squared away? It sounds like we may move on to the either
the Destroyers or the
GM Response: Yes,
there is time for that. No one has suggested that the team leave this next
turn. It appears they want to get more information first.
I meant to add
something at the end, but can't recall what.
Possibly to go to MegaGamma for some research, Russia or possibly or
elsewhere if the others had a game plan already. I wasn't sure how fast the pace we would be
moving on to our next objective would be, but sounds like we're establishing
that still.
Demy ponders the
following internally....
"If it is a
direct correlation then I will point this out to the group in my response as
well as give all the insight I have on it's location, known defenses, and
personnel
GM Response: No,
Demy doesn't know anything on Research Station MegaGamma except that they
produce some of the best power devices in the world. Demy could share that and
the fact that MISHA is powered by one of their devices if he chooses.
Ok, I think I'll
add this to my narrative as well.
(I assume this was
debriefed the US Government/DOD/Super Forces on all this immediately upon my
initially defected).
GM Response: Yes,
the Super Forces know which includes Agent America but the New Crusaders don't.
There is a chance that CHESS or MEDUSA wasn't told either. Gov't agencies not
sharing with each other and being protective of their turf exists in the
Megalopolis Universe too.
Clarification, the
info I meant was if I knew these things about the COL Z's Russian research
station, assuming I'd been there for my development, and not MegaGamma.
If it is Zaytseyev, as I understand Agent
Davidson’s definitions, the COL would be considered having the Mixed characteristic. While he is a devout Russian Nationalist and
high ranking military status, this only creates the connection he needs to the
facilities, material and monetary resources, science labs, personnel, testing
and freedom to do his research. Some of
this research is obviously questionable and immoral. I could do a whole background story on him if
necessary, but let me know. All this
provides the basis of his extreme manic and obsessive behavior when he feels he
has lack of freedom, power or resources to continue his next level of
scientific advancement, at whatever the cost.
GM Response: Col Zaytseyev is your nemesis, how much a
background story you want to write is up to you. You're writing it guarantees
that I will portray him correctly. I will bring in as much as I need each issue
filling in blanks as I need to. If you provide the background I will not have
as many blanks to fill and won't risk filling them if a way that doesn't fit
your vision. Currently I see him as a shadowy figure that will sent foe after
foe to capture MISHA but never comes himself. If you believe differently I need
to know that for sure and what you think he will do and how he will do it.
All sounds
good. This works fine. I'll put more thought into this, but for now
I may share the above and below information with the group to add flavor if you
feel it's appropriate. I can keep this
all in my back pocket as well until a later time.
Motive wise, while
Zaytseyev shows definite signs of psychosis in his grandstanding visionary research,
shows single minded focus related to Mission-oriented obsession, the Thrill of
advancing technology to satisfy his own obsession and Comfort in knowing he has
beaten any other in his advancing science/technology/innovation, his primary
motivation is his NEED for absolute freedom and lack of limitations granted by
having Power/Control. He will do
whatever is necessary to maintain control of his projects and advances. He can't stand limitations and lack of
effort, funds, material, loss of time or, in the case of M.I.S.H.A., losing
Intellectual Property that he finally had success manifesting with a test
subject ( Demy). Given that, it sounds
like he may have given out some of his technology to support Dr. Apocalypse. But for what gain? Doesn't he already have the all the money,
resources and personnel Russia can bring to bear? Sorry, pun intended. Maybe it wasn't money? Maybe there was some
other trade made? A new level of Power?
Other resources? Something he feels he currently have access to, but will get
it if things are successful?"
GM Response:
Zaytseyev ordering CyberDoom to do this can accomplish multiple things like to
weaken the enemies of Russia or it could have been to bring M.I.S.H.A. out of
hiding. In the last Issue Unit One has broadcast to the whole world that there
are new Heroes in Megalopolis, which includes Rubicon and MISHA. Shutterbug
would have posted video on them bringing their captured crew member to CHESS.
Col Zaytseyev knew that Demy wouldn't be able to stay away from a threat this
massive so he would have to reveal he was there to help. So Col Zaytseyev
gained 3 things. He has weaken the hated enemy of mother Russia, he has gained
the indebtedness/favor of the new Sorcerer Supreme of Earth, Dr. Apocalypse,
and determined what city that Rubicon and MISHA are hiding in. Not too bad of a
result from his schemes by having CyberDoom assist Pietor.
If this is
something that I've derived on my own that is fine, but I think I'd like to
have this come to light as some dialogue between myself and Agent America while
we're in the company of the others or Adamas.
Let me know your thoughts and I'll get this out tomorrow. Thanks again.
So fun!
Greg
--------------------------------------------------------------------
but the potential to get info from the robot
itself as you state is possibly going on, especially with Black Orchid around?
GM Response: Yes
Rubicon and MISHA can get in and look around.
Clarification, the
info I meant was if I knew these things about the COL Z's Russian research
station, assuming I'd been there for my development,
GM Response: Yes Demy has insight on Col Z's research
station including it's location, known defenses, and personnel. Defenses and
personnel are subject to change. The Super Forces will share this intel with no
one.
I may share the
above and below information with the group to add flavor if you feel it's
appropriate. I can keep this all in my
back pocket as well until a later time.
GM Response: Share
what flows naturally, you don't have to force anything as there will be time
later.
If this is
something that I've derived on my own that is fine, but I think I'd like to
have this come to light as some dialogue between myself and Agent America while
we're in the company of the others or Adamas.
Let me know your thoughts
GM Response: Having
this shared as part of dialogue is great and you don't have to share it all in
one turn response. I am good with pacing it over time.
Tom
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"That makes sense." Dr Wildman
looked at the gathered throng.
"My hope is
that the intelligence is being shared amongst the international community...I
suspect this isn't just a local problem."
"Anyway...all
that aside, how are you doing? This is quite a responsibility on you shoulders.
Talk about a baptism of fire to start your leadership!"
William waits to
see if StrikeForce opens up...
Steve
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"I agree Doc, I don't believe that it is
a local program either, at least not long term. We are just among his first
steps on the road to World Domination. I am wondering if their is something
special about your Steading that he needs, or is it possible that this is
related to Star Corp being on the Islands? Does he need something at either
place to advance his cause, or is it personal to strike at either DarkStar,
because he insulted him at some point, or is he another way to get at Dr.
Arcane Sr., DarkStar was part of the Quest, and had numerous interactions with
Apocalypse, has anyone reached out to him to find out what Intel he
possesses?"
StrikeForce takes a
moment to steady himself internally before continuing. " William",
the Cyborg Crusader starts, then pauses before resuming. "I have a lot on
my plate, that is for sure, thankfully I am surrounded by good people. You seem
to be pretty good at reading me, so I will fill you in on something that I just
discovered. Someone involved in this whole affair is also responsible for the
attack at Vanguard that critically injured me and necessitated my being rebuilt
into the man you see before you, and costing me 5 years of time. Time when I
was in cryogenic freezing and going through the long process of being put back
together. I suffered severe neurological trauma, a t.b.I.(traumatic brain
injury) that destroyed my emotional attachment to any and everyone I had known
up to that point. My emotional responses to things are at best a work in
process. There are gaps in my memory, things with my family that I no longer
remember. I have had to restart new relationships with my own family, with
varying degrees of success. I have told you all of that so that you can
understand this. I used a drone, a design that my father and I had been working
on as a way of bringing the lab into the field to study the robot we fought,
inside and out. Using the information ghat we gathered, it is clear that parts
of it are intellectual property of our company that was stolen from us. The
attack was the way to get it, or was a cover for industrial espionage that had
already acquired the tech, and was looking to cover their identity. So, this is
bound to get very personal for me."
StrikeForce waited
a few minutes for his friend to digest the buffet of information that he had
given him before continuing. "I am hoping that the Skink is o.k., I had
worried about taking a teen into battle, but main Manta-Man had backed him. I
hope that these new members are ready for something this big, Heck, I hope that
we all are. The new members do add a lot of fire power to the team. I hope that
it is enough."
"I am
wondering what you think about all this information that I have just dumped
into your lap?"
Jamey
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks Tom, the hi-tech drone was an attempt
to branch out slowly and make some additions to his situation. I am trying to
establish who StrikeForce's/Jason is outside of just being on/leading the team.
I'm trying to figure out what his role at Vanguard Incorporated will be. While
he is nowhere near as smart as Black Orchid, he is smart, and I want to use his
brains some too.
Jamey
---------------------------------------------------------------------
"So, some of the tech used within that
metallic monolith was stolen in the attack at Vanguard that caused your
injuries? Yep I can see that this whole affair is getting personal.
I'm so sorry; I had
no idea of the extent of your injuries. The physical ones are tough enough, let
alone the trauma of losing some your emotional cognizance."
William let the
silence hang for a bit.
"I appreciate
your openness with me. You quite literally have 'skin in the game' with this
one.
I have no idea who
Dark Star is and I doubt the Steading has any strategic value unless he is
looking to make use of wild unicorns, harpies, hippogryphs or pixies! I really
must try and round the up soon or it's going to look like a fantasy jurrasic
park very soon!"
"I'll check in
on Skunk in a bit, he's a robust kid."
OOC: William appreciates
the honesty of StrikeForce's openness. In many ways SF is becoming, for
William, a living analogy of the impact of technology on creation. There is a
gift and a cost. It is something he is pondering on...
Steve
---------------------------------------------------------------------
IC:
Seeing that things
were starting to feel under control in the aftermath of the climatic weather
and Doomsday Robot attacks Demy glanced over to MISHA. The great Russian robot simultaneously turned
to face Demy. With a slight confident smile, Demy spoke under his breath,
“Otpuskat”. With that, MISHA at once
solid, seemed to immediately blur slightly and then separate into horizontal
lines, each alternating layer sliding left and right further blurring, and
finally turning in black motes that sparked silver. These motes then spun into a short-lived dust
devil type movement as they dissipated into Demy.
With his companion
dismissed and seeing Manta-Man and Patty prepping Skink for EVAC, Demy noticed
Agent America among the CHESS, surrounding supers, first responders, and other
3-letter organizations in the area. “AA! What are you doing here?”
“Rubicon! Front and
center.” Hustling to Agent America,
Rubicon came up to Agent America and snapped to attention. With that, Agent
America slapped Demy in the chest with a legal-size manila folder with official
DOD logo on it. “New orders, son. Demyan Alexseev, as of this moment you are
hereby released from Active Duty from the Super Forces.”
“But, sir, you
don’t want me anymore? Wait – am I being
deported!?”
“At ease,
Demy. Relax, you’re still going to be
held in reserve with the SF. The intent
is to allow you the liberty to help out with this new threat. Congratulations, it seems you’re now a
freshman member of The New Crusaders.”
Before leaving with Skink, Manta-Man called out, “Welcome Rubicon, you
and the rest of this crew will be welcome additions.”, and then quickly flew
off with his charge. Laserfire, who was
smiling brightly talking with Patty Plus gave a momentary glance his way and a
quick nod.
“Now with that
formality over with, I need to show you something.” In one of the CHESS mobile labs, Agent
America presented a familiar looking 3-meter-tall robot. “Da, CyberDoom, built this model at COL Zaytseyev’s
facility, the same place that I was synced with the M.I.S.H.A. program. For
what it’s worth, I know that CyberDoom reports directly to Zaytseyev and is a
sleeper agent who appeared during the Destroyers attack to steal Megalopolis’s
new power core. He’s been doing COL Z’s bidding in America ever since. He must
have been paid by Dr. Apocalypse for his services.”.
After a moment,
“I’d like to see if we can still interrogate the Doomsday Robot crew before
they are taken away. I’d specifically
like to know where they were based out of prior to this attack, who recruited
them and how they were recruited and where they were trained. That might help give insight into some
profiling on how they get these goons.
Let alone possibly see where any next attack maybe be coming from and
when.”.
“I know CHESS ad
Black Orchid have done a thorough sweep of the Doomsday Robot, but has anyone
opened this tin can up yet to review it’s hard drives for data? If not, I can
assist Black Orchid if she’s so inclined.”
*** Later after the
joint briefing in the meeting room ***
Demy reflects on
Agent Davidson’s definitions and breakdown of Supervillains characteristics and
motives. Very helpful and give Demy
potential insight into COL Z’s manic and obsessive nature. I may have to put more of this down in my
journal later, Demy thought.
Deep in thought,
Agent America comes up to stand next to Demy.
“Ruble for your thoughts...?”, Agent America says. “Da, COL Zaytseyev will want M.I.S.H.A.
back. Knowing him, he will not stop
until he has his precious technology returned.”.
“Well, if that’s
the case,” Agent America says with sigh, “he’ll know where you are now. Unit
One and Shutterbug just broadcast this event all over the world. He’s definitely
got your position at the moment.”
Demy says, “He knew
I couldn’t stay out of an event like this. If that is the case, then COL Zaytseyev
has gained 3 things:
First, he’s
obviously figured out where MISHA and I am.
Secondly, he has
indirectly struck American soil in an attempt to weaken the hated enemy of
Mother Russia.
And lastly, it’s
possible that if COL Z lent CyberDoom into this attack that he has garnered
potential indebtedness or favor from Dr. Apocalypse.”
With a pensive
look, Demy turn his head to look at the Star Spangled Super to his left, “So,
sir, you’ll excuse me if I’m anxious to get on with this new group and get the
next ride out of here.”.
And then with
sudden burst that draws the attention of all those around, “O NET! My new JEEP!”,
and quickly runs out the door.
Demyan Alexeev’s
Background:
Demy entered into
the Russian military to be a Spetznaz Commando. The Russian Army had other
plans. He instead was entered into a
secret weapons program to become a "drone pilot" that neurological connected him with nano tech in
the form of a great brown bear, Misha. The programs OIC, COL Zaytseyev, pushed
Demy and Misha. During a FTX on an iceberg in the Bearing Straight iceberg,
Demy was knocked unconscious and both he and Misha were severely damaged by the
blast throwing them into the sea. The
damage integrated and changed both Demy and Misha, bonding them further. Misha saved Demy life by swimming them to shore
in AK where Misha disappeared for repair.
Demy was found barely alive by a US Coast Guard Cutter and returned to
the lower 48. The US has offered Demy asylum in return for the use of he and
his abilities.
M.I.S.H.A.’S
background:
Military Integrated
Special Human Assault, or M.I.S.H.A. for short, is the Russian military's attempt
at nano tech synced with human 'Pilots'.
When not absorbed into its host pilot Demy, Misha appears as an obvious
massive technological construct shaped after a bear with advanced canon on its
back. The technology was developed by COL Zaytseyev, the lead scientist and
Officer-in-Charge of special weapons research.
All prior human test subjects had been severely damaged or killed in
previous testing until Demyan Alexeev was recruited. Demy was badly hurt in the syncing with
MISHA, but ultimately was a success. The
two proved exceedingly capable as well as compatible as proven on progressive
training exercises. Zaytseyev is highly
intelligent, surrounded by Russia’s military might and technology, but also
extremely manic and obsessive.
Greg
--------------------------------------------------------------------
During the briefing, Patty seems almost
pressed back in her chair by the weight of all the information being shared.
"Um," she
says once or twice. "Er," she mumbles to herself.
I wonder if we are
going to be gone for a while? she thinks to herself. Who will feed her cat?
Instead of saying
anything, she simply looks around the room after the dramatic Destroyers
announcement. This is too big for her. She has no clue what to offer.
----
OOC: Very interesting
issue, thanks!
Shane
--------------------------------------------------------------------
When the briefing is over, StrikeForce tells
Dr. Wildman. "I am going to ask Agent America about DarkStar."
Moving in a
straight and direct manner to interact with Agent America, the Cyborg Crusader
introduces himself. "Agent, I am sure that you are already aware, but
allow me to personally introduce myself, StrikeForce, pleased to meet
you." The bionic brawler extends his hand in friendship.
OOC: Tom, StrikeForce
will float his ideas about DarkStar, Star Corp, and Dr. Apocalypse, to see if
the agent has any information or theories that he would share with them.
Jamey
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Sorry for the late
response, if not for the other responses, I would have missed an episode. Not sure how I missed it.
Adamas responses:
StrikeForce said,
“Adamas, if you could get Dr. Arcane to give us any Intel that he possesses on
Apocalypse. We would definitely be grateful."
After his short
talk with Dr. Arcane, Adamas returned.
“He had little to add, and suggested we follow the cyber trail, which it
sounds like our companions are already following.”
Agent America’s
tone became serious. “Adamas you have to promise me that you will stay for the
entire briefing and you won’t leave without the rest of the New Crusaders.
Promise me.”
He looks at his old
friend, “I will stay with the team. I’ve
learned my lesson about striking out on my own”, thinking back on his own
adventures, and how others got hurt because he wasn’t there.
Agent America
looked Adamas directly in the eyes and said.”The super team that CHESS has
under surveillance falls directly into the motivation of Power/Control. Their
members have different characteristics but share the same motive”.
“They are the
Destroyers.”
“I got lucky last
time, but I’ll be ready for them this time, and I won’t be alone again.”
Great issue Tom,
you amaze me! The level of detail, and
storytelling here is crazy, references to issues, and development of a society
with superheroes as a whole... great job!
Jon
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Sorry for the late
response, it was such a great issue and I didn't know where to begin and then I
spaced it!
------------------
Rubicon said
"Black Orchid, da? We must talk some time, you and I. I think you will
find us ... interesting."
"You are
correct", she replied, "I would love the chance to have a look at
M.I.S.H.A. in more detail at some time. It, I mean, he, correct? Gives me some
ideas." If there was other meaning in Rubicon's comment, The Black Orchid
appeared to have missed it completely.
------------------
Later, The Black
Orchid approached StrikeForce. "Earlier you mentioned the invisible plane
back at Easter Island. That was quite an effort on my part, but if you think it
is a good idea, I could do some research to make it more reliable or at least
less exhausting for me to pull it off."
Marc
-------------------------------------------------------------------
"Black
Orchid" The Cyborg Crusader replies. "I am trying to think of any
advantage that we can use, because I think that we need every one that we can
get, and while I don't claim to be as smart as you are, I am a scientist as
well. I have been developing a way to hide myself from electronic observation,
maybe between the two of us we can come up with something that will tax your
energy less."
Jamey
--------------------------------------------------------------------
