Megalopolis

Friday, March 25, 2016

Quest: Sic Him! - Issue 59

{Location: Domain Dimension}

With a solid THUD! Ghoul 1 landed on the ground. Its morale was broken. Ghoul #1 begged for mercy and asked to join Earth’s Pack.

[43] Trekker hoisted his staff, prepared to strike, but hesitated when the creature (surely an escaped denizen of Hades) plead for its life. He wasn't sure whether or not to accept the thing's surrender. He looked towards Menagerie, a questioning expression on his face, and then shrugged. "You want to join our pack?" He pointed towards one of the still active ghouls. "Sic him!"

{GM Note: Trekker held his action}

[42] Adamas continued to attack Ghoul #4. He dual attacked with his mighty eye blasts. The first blast was stopped by the Ghoul’s fur {GM Note: Ghoul’s armor was hit}. The second blast struck where the fur had been damaged. The Ghoul cried out in pain but continued to fight.

[34] The Skink continued claw attacks and evaded on Ghoul #3. He flanked attack it, from on top of the brain coral, now that he had its permission to be up there. He cut the chatter and got down to fighting for the rest of the round. The Skink’s claws ripped fur from the Ghoul. The second strike got past Ghoul #3’s protection. The Ghoul grunted in pain as Skink’s claw raked it. The Ghoul was able to continue fighting.

[31] Red Hawk continued to add his own lesser firepower to the legendary Adamas. Dual Vibrational blasts struck the same Ghoul that Adamas hadn't finished off. The first vibe blast was stopped by the Demon’s fur. His second blast hit the signed fur, which no longer provided any protection. Ghoul #4 grunted in pain but was able to continue to fight.

[29] StrikeForce moved on to Ghoul #3. He continued to keep up his evasive maneuvering as he swung his Staff at the Ghoul. Both attempted strikes missed.

[28] {GM Note: Trekker held his action}

[26] Ghoul #3 attacked StrikeForce. He evaded the pack Demon’s first set of claws. The Ghoul struck with its other hand. Claws raked across StrikeForce’s armor meshed skin. The Claws were not able to penetrate the armor. The Ghoul #3 gained the upper hand in facing StrikeForce.

{GM Note: For the Dual attack the first missed. The second attack rolled a “1”. This is a critical hit. The bonus gained is Seize Initiative against Opponent. Now regardless of the dice rolls Ghoul #3 will act before StrikeForce until the fight is over or StrikeForce is able to Seize Initiative. The second attack did 16 points of damage, -16 to Invulnerability. The Invulnerability points will be recovered the start of next turn even though I don’t show that on current status at the bottom.}

[24] Ghoul #1 nodded he understood what he had to do. He charged back to the fight. It attacked Ghoul 4. It ripped fur from the Domain Demon in great handfuls. “I doing sic him! I am good Earth pack fighter!”

[23] Trekker moved behind the target ghoul and gave another swing. He struck Ghoul #4 hard with his Caduceus. The Ghoul yelled in pain but was able to continue fight.

[22] Trekker struck Ghoul #4 a second time. Again the blow got past the Ghoul’s protection. Ghoul 4 hurt from the pain but was still able to continue to fight.

[21] The Black Orchid moved to Ghoul #1 and watched carefully, ready to blast at the first sign of treachery. Seeing no sign of it, she hit Ghoul #4 with a vacuum blast. Energy drained from the Domain Demon.

[20] Menagerie growled as he ran. He raked his claws across Ghoul #4. Menagerie’s attack got past the Demon’s protection. While the attack hurt, the pack Demon could continue with the fight.

[20] Ghoul 4 leaped at Adamas. It tried to rake the Alien Powerhouse with its claws. Its attacks missed

[19] Conquistador floated across the battlefield. He positioned himself to blast Ghoul #4. He fired a solid light beam at the pack Demon. The beam went past the Ghoul, missing too high.

[13] Trekker 3^rd action swung his mighty Caduceus again. This time he missed.

<Replies and Actions due Apr 9^th>

Battle Conditions:

Adamas Hit Points: 46 Power Points: 48 Invulnerability: 24

Black Orchid Hit Points: 30 Power Points: 71 Willpower Defense active; Invisible

Red Hawk Hit Points: 74 Power Points: 44 Invulnerability: 10; Willpower Def active

StrikeForce Hit Points: 60 Power Points: 74 Invulnerability: 12

The Skink Hit Points: 30 Power Points: 73 Evading

Trekker Hit Points: 11 Power Points: 30 Adaptation Defense active

Phase of Action for next turn:

[45] Trekker 1^st action

[35] Adamas

[31] Red Hawk

[30] Trekker 2^nd action

[28] The Skink

[28] StrikeForce

[23] Black Orchid

[20] Menagerie

[15] Conquistador

[15] Trekker 3^rd action

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Adamas will continue to attack Ghoul 4. Dual attacks with his mighty eye blasts - non-auto attack.

If the Ghoul goes down, he will shift targets to Ghoul 3, keeping himself between the "down but not out" Ghoul 2.

Jon

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The Black Orchid moves to Ghoul #1 and watches carefully, ready to blast at the first sign of treachery (she'll hold her action until someone interacts with the ghoul and if it betrays any indication of an attack, she'll blast it. If not she'll take another shot at any that are still fighting)

Marc

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StrikeForce will move on to the closest available target. He will continue to keep up his evasive maneuvering.

Jamey

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IC:

Trekker hoisted his staff, prepared to strike, but hesitated when the creature (surely an escaped denizen of Hades) plead for its life. He wasn't sure whether or not to accept the thing's surrender. He looked towards Menagerie, a questioning expression on his face, and then shrugged. "You want to join our pack?" He points towards one of the still active ghouls. "Sic him!"

OOC: Will hold action, waiting to see what the ghoul does. If he attacks one of the other ghouls, I will move behind the target ghoul and give another swing. If he hesitates or appears ready to attack one of us again instead, he'll whack ghoul 1.

Chris

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The Skink will continue claw attacks and evade moves on left front ghoul. He will flank attack it, from on top of the brain coral, now that he has its permission to be up there. He cuts the chatter and gets down to fighting for the rest of the round.

Chuck

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Sunday, February 21, 2016

Quest: With a Mighty Roar! - Issue 58

{Flashback}

{Location: Himalayas, Earth}

A lone figure stood on the mountain top admiring the scenery.

Patrick tugged at the inseam of his leggings, adjusting them for comfort. It was the first time he'd suited up in full costume and regalia, and the outfit was more snug than he'd thought it would be; he was glad he'd ignored his first instinct to "go commando." The material was thin, no protection whatsoever against the icy winds billowing his toga-cape, but he no longer required any protection from the cold anyway. They had seen to that.

It had taken him weeks to work up the nerve to don mask and cape for the first time -- to begin his mission of justice -- but the day had finally arrived. Not that he expected to encounter evil-doers in the Himalayas, but it had seemed fitting to inaugurate his career as a super-hero (and agent of the space gods) here at the very top of the world. And it gave him a chance to reflect upon his mission, in peace and solitude. After all, what were the chances he'd run into someone here, on a remote mountain pass at the ends of the Earth...

An unexpected person walked up the trail to him.

“Hello, I am Nomad. It would be a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Patrick stared, nonplussed, waving mutely in response.

“I would have addressed you by your hero name but it appears that Dimensipedia has 3 different names listed for you with the historians constantly argue which is right. I am guessing Trekker but if I am wrong let me know. I just didn’t have time to go to the Interdimensional Library to do the proper research this time.”

"Trekker? I, uh, no. No, it's actually Emis--" Patrick frowned. He hadn't actually been given any specific messages to convey to the leaders of mankind just yet, so he couldn't really call himself a true emissary. "That is, it's Harb--” Nor even been directed to herald The Arrival, yet. He shrugged. "Sure. Trekker. Why not? Thanks for the suggestion."

“Earth needs your help. The Domain is preparing to invade using an Interdimensional bridge being built from the Scarlet Orb. I need you to join the other Earths’ heroes that are trying to stop this.”

Trekker stared at Nomad in confusion. Domain? Interdimensional bridge? Scarlet Orb? Could this Nomad be one of ... Them? No. He doubted that any of Them will be wearing safari jackets and sunglasses when They arrive.

"Here allow me to open a door for you."

Then again... Trekker stared in wonder as Nomad casually shattered the barrier between worlds. He gave Nomad a silent salute; then plunged into the portal.

{End of Flashback}

{Location: Domain Dimension}

Although they had just met, Red Hawk felt like he was abandoning his teammates when the tumbleweed demons attacked. He and Orchid should have been the ones holding them at bay while the others moved on, but there was no time to argue with the veteran heroes of Earth's other dimensions. He would not abandon the Machinist in this domain.

He marveled at the pink pachyderms as Crude met them head on ... literally. They looked less like demons than a child's stuffed animal he saw given away at Christmas. Not was as it seemed here. He began to suspect the creatures here likely no more were willing servants than he had been of Cyberdoom. It wasn't just Earth in need of protection. Nomad's recruiting of heroes proved this was a Crisis of Infinite proportions.

The Guardians and Menagerie continued down the twisting path. They saw in the distance a large chamber. They stopped to scout out what it was. Before they could split up they heard the sounds of something coming up behind them.

It was Conquistador and a stranger.

Conquistador told the heroes how they had defeated the Y’Tego but he was the only one not incapacitated. Nomad had arrived after the battle was over. He had brought Trekker with him.

Red Hawk asked where Nomad was now. Conquistador told him that Nomad was taking Machinist, Night Wraith, and Cougar back to their dimensions. Nomad would take back Crude too.

Red Hawk sighed in relief. He was determined there would be no more Agent Americas left behind.

Conquistador introduced Trekker to the team.

Adamas greeted Trekker, "Always happy to meet a new hero."

"Uh, yes. Thank you. I'm Em... that is, I'm Trekker."

The heroes scouted the area. There weren’t any traps surrounding it. They decided to enter the large chamber formed of sparkling golden Brain Coral; they immediately sense the presence of a great intellect in danger. Menagerie changed his form into that of a grizzly bear. There were 4 Ghouls physically assaulting the coral growths.

They heard a telepathic cry for help. It came for the Brain Coral.

[49] Trekker stared in confusion and awe. He'd been to every corner of the Earth, both before and after his powers had been bestowed upon him, but he'd never seen anything as surreal as the landscape he found himself in now. "I'm new at this hero thing, but I'm guessing those..." He pointed at the ghouls. "...are bad?" Trekker held his action waiting for the team’s response.

[42] As they came into the clearing, Adamas hurled himself at one of the Ghouls, "The enemy of my enemy may not be my friend, but other than grounding us, the brain coral has not harmed us. If it needs help, I say we help," glancing back at the team leader.

Placing himself between the team and the attackers, Adamas blasted the closest Ghoul. Multiple Power Blasts fired from Adamas’ eyes striking the Ghoul hard in its fur. It withstood the blasts with only singed fur to show for it.

{GM Note: The Ghoul’s fur provides it Armor protection. Adamas’ blast struck its armor}

[41] "Well, that answers that question." Trekker took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. He hadn't considered the practical ramifications of super-heroics, which is to say combat, as carefully as he should have. The last time he'd been in a fight was the fifth grade, and he'd lost that fight, to a kid half his size. "Ah, screw it." As super-heroic catchphrases went, that wasn't a very good one, but it was enough to get him moving.

His companions suddenly seemed to be moving in slow motion. They weren't actually going any slower, nor was he moving any faster. It was the flow of time that changed speed, and Trekker no longer occupied the same space-time continuum as his fellow heroes. He envisioned a line of space-time puncture points between himself and the nearest monster, and smiled.

Clearing the distance between himself and his foe in an instant, leaving a line of after-images of himself behind him, he hefted his Caduceus and gave a mighty swing.

He missed.

{GM Note: With the attack from behind bonus of +4, Trekker needed 11 or less on a 1d20 to hit. He rolled a 12}

[34] Trekker gave a second mighty swing and missed again.

{GM Note: Needing an 11 or less he rolled a 13}

[30] Alerted by Menagerie the team jumped into action. Following the true Guardian's lead, Red Hawk again took position at his wing adding his own lesser firepower to the legendary Adamas. Dual Vibrational Blasts struck the same Ghoul that Adamas hadn't finished off. His blast hit the signed fur, which no longer provided any protection. The Ghoul screamed in pain as it flew 20 feet away. It landed with a loud THUD! It was knocked unconscious.

{GM Note: On the second blast Red Hawk did 9 points of damage to the Ghoul’s Hit Points. On the 1d00 roll for KO, the roll was 03.}

[30] The Skink said, "I wanna run up and attack more of these goons, but im gonna have to run all over the brain coral to do it. i dont wanna hurt it with my claws..."

“It is okay, my skin is tough enough that your claws won’t do more than a little scratch. Run all over me to save me!” Skink heard the Brain Coral speak in his mind.

Skink leaped up to the nearest coral branch. He performed a forward flip off of it. In leaps and bounds he charged toward the left corner ghoul. As he moved by it he attempted to strike the Domain pack demon with his claws. He missed.

[27] StrikeForce kept his senses up and his head on a swivel. He moved to not allow an adversary a shot at him from behind. He attacked Ghoul 1 with his staff, as it was the only opponent that was engaged with his teammates. He struck twice with his staff hitting the Domain pack demon where it was vulnerable. The Ghoul groaned as it flew back 60 feet from its attacker.

[26] Ghoul 4 quit attacking the Brian Coral. It charged toward Adamas. Leaping into the air it struck Adamas in the chest with its claws. The Alien Powerhouse withstood the attack.

{GM Note: Ghoul did 11 points of damage. All damage to Adamas’ invulnerability, -11 to Invulnerability. Invulnerability is now 13}

[25] Ghoul 3 charged toward the Guardians. With a mighty leap it attacked Red Hawk with its claws. The Ghoul’s talons passed through Red Hawk’s vibrating body without harming him. The Domain pack demon’s attack missed.

[24] Black Orchid turned invisible. She said nothing and as she had done multiple times before she moved in to support and protect her teammates. She shot her vacuum blast at the one Ghoul that hadn’t attacked yet, draining energy from the Domain pack demon; bringing it closer to becoming fatigued.

[24] Ghoul 1 picked itself up from ground. It ran the 60 feet back toward its attacker. The Domain pack demon attempted to rake its claws across StrikeForce’s chest. Its attack missed.

[24] {GM Note: Ghoul 2 failed its wakeup roll.}

[19] In a series of trans-dimensional teleports while suspending time, Trekked didn’t leave behind a blur when he used his "speed," everyone saw a series of after-images; it reminded the Guardians of somebody at a dance club between flashes of a strobe light. Trekker stopped behind Ghoul number 1. With a mighty swing of his Caduceus he missed again.

[17] With a load roar, Menagerie charged toward the Ghouls. The Shapeshifting Shaman attacked Ghoul 1. He bit into the side of the Domain pack demon. It cried in pain as its fur failed to protect it. It was hurt but still able to fight.

[14] Conquistador floated behind Menagerie. He moved to get the best line of sight. With a wave of his hands, light formed around them. A solid beam on matter sprang forward rocketing toward Ghoul 1. Conquistador’s solid shaft of light missed his target.

[04] Trekker swung at the Ghoul again. This time his Caduceus staff connected. With a loud CRACK! he hit the Ghoul in a spot where its fur wasn’t protecting it. The Domain pack demon groaned in pain as it flew 10 feet away from Trekker.

With a solid THUD! It landed on the ground. Its morale was broken. Ghoul #1 begged for mercy and asked to join Earth’s Pack.

<What is your reply to its request?>

<Replies and Actions due Mar 7^th>

Battle Conditions:

Adamas Hit Points: 46 Power Points: 54 Invulnerability: 13

Black Orchid Hit Points: 30 Power Points: 81 Willpower Defense active; Invisible

Red Hawk Hit Points: 74 Power Points: 58 Invulnerability: 10; Willpower Def active

StrikeForce Hit Points: 60 Power Points: 80 Invulnerability: 28

The Skink Hit Points: 30 Power Points: 73 Evading

Trekker Hit Points: 11 Power Points: 36 Adaptation Defense active

Phase of Action for next turn:

[43] Trekker 1^st action

[42] Adamas

[34] The Skink

[31] Red Hawk

[29] StrikeForce

[28] Trekker 2^nd action

[21] Black Orchid

[20] Menagerie

[19] Conquistador

[13] Trekker 3^rd action

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Adamas greeted Trekker, "Always happy to meet a new hero." To Nomad, "Thanks for continuing to replenish our ranks"

As they came into the clearing, Adamas hurled himself at one of the Ghouls, "The enemy of my enemy may not be my friend, but other than grounding us, the brain coral has not harmed us. If it needs help, I say we help," glancing back at the team leader.

(Unless Red Hawk signals him to stop, he will continue)

Placing himself between the team and the attackers, he will blast the closest Ghoul. Multiple Power Blasts, (2) not auto-fire.

Jon

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It was Conquistador and a stranger.

Conquistador told the heroes how they had defeated the Y’Tego but he was the only one not incapacitated. Nomad had arrived after the battle was over. He had brought Trekker with him.

Conquistador introduced Trekker to the team.

{Flashback}

{Location: Himalayas, Earth}

A lone figure stood on the mountain top admiring the scenery.

An unexpected person walked up the trail to him.

“Hello, I am Nomad. It would be a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Patrick stared, nonplussed, waving mutely in response.

"Trekker? I, uh, no. No, it's actually Emis--" Patrick frowned. He hadn't actually been given any specific messages to convey to the leaders of mankind just yet, so he couldn't really call himself a true emissary. "That is, it's Harb--" Nor even been directed to herald The Arrival, yet. He shrugged. "Sure. Trekker. Why not? Thanks for the suggestion."

"Here allow me to open a door for you."

Then again... Trekker stared in wonder as Nomad casually shattered the barrier between worlds. He gave Nomad a silent salute, then plunged into the portal.

{End of Flashback}

Adamas greeted Trekker, "Always happy to meet a new hero." To Nomad, "Thanks for continuing to replenish our ranks."

[OOC: I don't think Nomad came with Trekker. It was Conquistador who escorted him in.]

IC:

"Uh, yes. Thank you. I'm Em... that is, I'm Trekker."

Conquistador told them that Crude was still fighting the Devilopes when they passed through. He expected the Oily Goliath to win but wasn’t expecting him to be able to join them in time. The fight appeared legendary and wouldn’t be done anytime soon.

The heroes scouted the area. There weren’t any traps surrounding it. They decided to enter the large chamber formed of sparkling golden Brain Coral, they immediately sense the presence of a great intellect in danger. Menagerie changes his form into that of a grizzly bear. There are 4 Ghouls physically assaulting the coral growths.

They heard a telepathic cry for help. It came for the Brain Coral.

Trekker stared in confusion and awe. He'd been to every corner of the Earth, both before and after his powers had been bestowed upon him, but he'd never seen anything as surreal as the landscape he found himself in now. "I'm new at this hero thing, but I'm guessing those..." He pointed at the ghouls. "...are bad?"

"Well, that answers that question." Trekker took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. He hadn't considered the practical ramifications of super-heroics, which is to say combat, as carefully as he should have. The last time he'd been in a fight was the fifth grade, and he'd lost that fight, to a kid half his size. "Ah, screw it." As super-heroic catchphrases went, that wasn't a very good one, but it was enough to get him moving.

Clearing the distance between himself and his foe in an instant, leaving a line of after-images of himself behind him, he hefted his Caduceus and gave a mighty swing.

[OOC: Since his super-speed is actually him engaging in a series of trans-dimensional teleports while suspending time, he doesn't leave behind a blur when he uses his "speed," so much as a series of after-images (like when you watch somebody at a dance club between flashes of a strobe light).

Not sure if I am supposed to just post my first action for the fight or all of the actions I get in the turn. He's going to swing his staff at the nearest ghoul and keep swinging. If he gets hit (and stays conscious) he'll use his next action to set up an evasion defense, then go back to swinging.]

Christian

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I need all actions for the turn. I know this will require a few If-Then statements. We will figure it out together

Tom

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Okay, then. First action is to move to the nearest ghoul using Heightened Speed and attack with his staff. He will try to use his superior "speed" to get behind his target and attack from the rear. Unless one of the following If/then statements apply, he will continue to attack until the ghoul is out of action, at which point he will move to a new ghoul if any are available.

If he is attacked in return and successfully hit, he will roll with the punch and then use his next available action phase to set up an evasion defense. Then he will get back into the fight, attacking the nearest ghoul (from behind again).

If any of his new allies is struck and knocked out of the fight, he will use his Heightened Speed to drag that character someplace out of the action, then get back to the fight on the next available action phase.

Christian

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OOC: I missed that. Please remove the greeting to Nomad.

As to continuing actions, Adamas will remain focused on each opponent until they go down, and then move to where he is most needed. His defensive actions will be more to stay between the other heroes and the enemy than to prevent damage to himself. Movement should be used to that end.

Jon

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OOC: StrikeForce will keep his senses up and his head on a swivel. He will use movement to not allow an adversary a shot at him from behind. He will attack with his staff, preferably against an opponent that is engaged with one of his teammates. He will "stick and move" on targets of opportunity.

Jamey

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Red Hawk

Alerted by Menagerie the team jumped into action. Following the true Guardian's lead, Red Hawk again took position at his wing adding his own lesser firepower to the legendary Adamas.

[Actions] Dual Vibrational Blast following up any any opponent Adamas hasn't finished off and moving counter-clockwise when that option isn't available. Vibrational and Willpower defenses activated.

OOC: His new power and the environment should give him power points to burn so let’s see how that plays out. Tom could you post updated character sheets on the site? It's nice to see and easy to reference.

John

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OOC: Im late!

All of the skink's actions are move-bys on the left corner ghoul... he will maximize his move rate, and make a series of hit and run claw attacks on the creature...

Chuck

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"I wanna run up and attack more of these goons, but im gonna have to run all over the brain coral to do it.. i dont wanna hurt it with my claws..."

Chuck

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Trekker

Secret Identity: Trekker

Name: Patrick Cavanagh

Age: ??

Gender: M

Height: 5'8"

Weight: 190 lbs

Level: 1

Experience Points: 0

Player: Chris

Super Powers and Super Skills:

1. Teleportation: Maximum Range = 500000000" (473485 miles), PR = 8 per use.

a. Limitation: He can only carry inanimate matter when teleporting. He cannot bring other living

2. Heightened Speed (Multiple Teleports): +820" ground movement, +28 initiative.

3. Adaptation: PR = 1 point of Power when used to defend against an attack, activates automatically (no action or PR cost)

Equipment: Caduceus (staff): Accuracy: +3, HTH + 1d6 damage

Statistics:

Strength: 10

Endurance: 18

Agility: 12

Intelligence: 10

Charisma: 10

Hit Points: 11

Power Points: 50

Carrying Capacity: 266 lbs

Hand-to-Hand Damage: 1d6

Accuracy: +1 (Including Power Mods)

Damage Modifier: +1 (Including Power Mods)

Detect Hidden: 8

Detect Danger: 12

Reaction Modifiers: 0 from Good 0 from Evil

Movement: Ground: 40 per turn

Movement: Teleportation: 860 per turn

Healing Rate: 2 hit points per day

Occupation: Traveling Photojournalist

Security Clearance: 6

Wealth: 10

Skills:

Fine Arts (Photography)

Scholar (Mythology)

Luck Points: 1

AKA Emissary and Harbinger

Patrick was born to upper middle class parents in a suburb of Our Fair City. Enjoying a comfortable childhood, he developed an interest in photography at an early age, earning spare cash as a portrait photographer while in high school. He attended college, pursuing a fine arts degree (with a focus in photography), but lacked the discipline to complete his studies, dropping out after two years.

He also developed an early and abiding interest in mythology, particularly Greek and Roman myth. He took a few courses in courses in comparative mythology while still in college, but conflated his serious academic studies with the ancient astronaut theories of Zacharia Sitchin (Sitchin's theories concerned the gods of ancient Sumeria, but Patrick applied them more generally to all the gods of ancient myth, including the Greek gods).

A lifelong hiker, Patrick set out to see the world, hitchhiking across the globe, visiting ancient temples and ruins, museums housing religious relics and works of art depicting mythological figures, etc., earning a modest living (enough to support his nomadic lifestyle) by selling photos of the great works.

While he was photographing ruins in Crete, an earthquake trapped him under a pile of collapsed rubble. While trapped, he experienced a vision of Hermes Diaktoros (Hermes in his capacity as messenger of the Greeks gods), who confirmed Patrick's theories about the Olympians being "space gods" and stated that they would soon return to Earth to end the current "Iron Age" and usher in a new "Golden Age of Man." Furthermore, the gods had chosen Patrick to act as the harbinger of their return and an emissary between the gods and humanity. To this end, they granted Patrick the power to "trek between worlds," the better to act as an agent of the gods.

Hermes vanished in a cloud of mist, after which Patrick awakened from his vision, mysteriously freed from the rubble. Over the following weeks, he discovered that he had the power to warp spacetime, enabling him to puncture holes into an alternate universe (which he believes corresponds to the Greek underworld, Hades) in order to teleport vast distances in our dimension, and to simulate superhuman speed by combining "micro-jumps" with a time dilation effect.

Patrick has chosen to use his newfound gifts as a superhero while awaiting further instructions from the space gods...

The Skink

Secret Identity: The Skink
Name: Lester Harris
Age: 16
Gender: M
Height: 6' 0"

Weight: 160 lbs
Level: 2
Experience Points: 4,859
Player: Chuck

Super Powers and Super Skills:
1. Animal Plant Powers: Skink Powers
a.Natural Weaponry (claws) +2 to hit, +4 damage, Special: cling move on porous surfaces. will not work on glass or smooth metal
b.Ht. endurance A: +9
c. Speed bonus: +80" to move rate
2. Ht Agility B: +16
3. Ht. Senses: Thermo Vision: The skink can see in the dark, can see variations in temperature in objects and people
4. (latent, unknown)
5. (latent, unknown)
6. Ht Strength A: +7 (2nd level Advancement)

Weakness: Prejudice. The Skink has a reputation as a burglar and an eco-terrorist to some officials and authorities.

Statistics:
Strength: 19
Endurance: 23
Agility: 26
Intelligence: 14
Charisma: 10

Hit Points: 44
Power Points: 82

Carrying Capacity: 733 lbs
Hand-to-Hand Damage: 1d8

Accuracy: +6 (Including Power Mods)
Damage Modifier: +7 (Including Power Mods)

Detect Hidden: 10
Detect Danger: 14

Reaction Modifiers: 0 from Good 0 from Evil

Movement: Ground: 68 per turn
Movement: Leaping: 148 per turn
Healing Rate: 2.4 hit points per day

Occupation:
Security Clearance: 6
Wealth: 15

Skills:
Athletics (Sports)
Book Knowledge: Scientific History
Natural/Basic Science
Research
Scientist: Zoology
Scholar: History

Luck Points: 2

"Lester Harris" was the name given to a strange infant, found on the doorstep of Dr. Henry Harris. Harris, a leading genetic researcher at Axiom Labs in Megalopolis' Foundry district, kept the baby's origin a secret, and raised the boy as his own, while secretly studying him.

Harris soon discovered that by some unknown process, his new son's human DNA had somehow been merged or spliced with reptilian DNA, giving him extraordinary speed, physical stamina. At first he thought this was some natural mutation, but further research began to show that he may have been artificially altered as an embryo. From a very young age, Henry Harris began to test Lester's abilities. The doctor also home schooled the boy as much as he knew about science and science history, and Lester grew up happy like that, helping his adoptive father in the lab.

Dr. Harris began to become concerned for Lester's socialization, and began to consider enrolling him in a local high school. Lester had already begun to show a desire to use his powers to serve the city as a superhero, and the two developed Lester's Skink persona and costume to aid in this, to keep his private life and super heroic life separate.

While out one night patrolling the city on one of his first times out, Lester, now garbed as The Skink, returned to the lab to find it ablaze and vandalized, and his beloved father and mentor murdered. Security, some police, and reporters unfortunately arrived right as The Skink moved the doctor from the burning building, mistook him for the perpetrator of the crime, and The Skink has had a dicey reputation with the law ever since, at least some of them. He now tries to pick up the pieces of his life and continue on somehow.

Thursday, February 18, 2016

Quest: Twisting Path Before Them - Issue 57

{Location: Domain Dimension}

The three Xo’J all looked at the giant shadow creature. Moments passed. The Mind Demons turned and ran away in awkward hoping motions. They fled in three different directions.

"Yes!" The Black Orchid said to herself, not too loudly, but anyone near could hear her enthusiasm. When it was clear they're gone, she said to the others, "I wasn't sure that was going to work. They probably weren't used to getting a beating like that either. Bullies are bullies even in other dimensions."

Winking at Orchid, “Good idea, that little trick could prove very useful in the future.” Adamas said.

"Thank you Adamas." she said after a moment, not sure what to make of the wink.

Nomad and The Skink joined the Guardians

Arms wide as Red Hawk circled downward, the swirling plasma currents making flight even more difficult as the team gathered around Nomad and his visitor. “I don't know where he has come from, but he might had wished had stayed by the time out mission is complete”, Red Hawk thought to himself.

Nomad quickly introduced The Skink.

Turning to Nomad, and listening to his introduction Adamas smiled and extended his hand to The Skink, “Welcome to the party.”

Landing softly, Chris introduced himself as Red Hawk.

She went over to the new hero and held out her hand. She had clearly become more confident after each successful battle. "Hello, I'm The Black Orchid and welcome to our group."

Stepping forward to meet the new arrival, the Bionic Brawler extended his hand and introduced himself. "My name is StrikeForce, I am pleased to make your acquaintance."

The Black Orchid only realized after she shook hands with Skink that she was wearing the Machinist's sunglasses. She took them off briefly, said "Sorry about that, it's a little bright for me here," and she put them back on after a moment.

The short statured Skink took in this bizarre place and this new group, keeping his distress at his escape in check... He nervously rapped his small black claws on his belt buckle as he took the scene in...

"Man, that was close back there! I thought I was sunk for sure... I wanna thank you guys for savin my hide back there... Whatever you got going on? You can count on The Skink to help get it done!

Everyone quickly introduced themselves.

{To save space I am not putting in the NPCs introductions, If you want to read them read Issue 53 or click here

http://vav-megalopolis-pbem.blogspot.com/2015/10/quest-meet-team-issue-53.html}

"Skink, is that right? As you can obviously tell," The Black Orchid broadly waved a hand around her, "we're not in Kansas anymore. Some of us are finding that our abilities work a little differently here, wherever here is. You may want to test them briefly before we get in the heat of battle."

The Skink could tell he felt heavier when he tried to do a back somersault. He tired quicker but felt the best he ever had.

{GM Note: Domain effects: The Skink HtH is now 1d4, his accuracy and damage modifiers were unchanged, here’s why;

Atmosphere – The alien chemistry of the Domain’s air has the following effects on humans. Each action takes costs +2 power points over and above its normal cost. But normal healing takes place every hour instead of once per day. Adaptation will negate both the positive and negative effects of this atmosphere.

Gravity – The Domain has gravity of 1.89 times Earth’s gravity. I multiplied each character’s weight by 1.89, and subtract each extra pounds of weight from his Carry Capacity. I recalculated HtH damage based on the Remaining Carrying Capacity

Geology – The solid and rocks in the Domain are composed of diamond hard crystals, and the native flora share these characteristics. Structural Rating equals 10. Any character smashing into or falling on this substance takes +1d10 damage.}

Menagerie reminded Nomad of the Crystal he had given to the Draven. “Oh, my bad. I should have given everyone a crystal.” As he handed them to all the heroes, “As you discovered the Laws of Physics are different here. These crystals function just like your communicators on Earth. All you need to do is talk, even at the level of a whisper and everyone can here you.”

Adamas accepted the Crystal from Nomad, and tucked it away in his costume.

Jack Frost demanded Nomad to take him back to Earth. The Domain was no fun. As he stamped his foot in impertinence he explained he was bound to the Earth. His job was to defend the Earth on Earth. He couldn’t be here. He had to get back.

The Black Orchid was clearly sad to see Jack go. "I understand where he's coming from, but still, I'll miss his carefree attitude."

Adamas was saddened to see Jack Frost leave, and wished him well.

Nomad agreed to take Jack back. He took the unconscious Serpent with him as well. “Time is of the essence, we can’t wait for you to tend him. I will take care of Jack and Serpent.” Having said that, Nomad opened a dimensional portal and the 3 heroes left the Domain.

The team traveled the remaining miles to the Coral Forest without incident.

The Forest is a single gigantic sentient brain-coral, comprised of billions of tiny minds. The depth of the coral reaches 400 feet in places. It is sharp to the touch. The heroes could see the entrance to a twisting pathway veering away from the Plasma River which ran through it.

Red Hawk had flown as high as possible while the team approached the Coral forest. The strange energies of this planet somehow seeming to alter the cells of his synthezoid body in ways Cyberdoom could only have guessed at. Arms wide as Red Hawk circled downward, the swirling plasma currents making flight even more difficult.

They heard a voice in the crystal ear pieces. “This is Agent America. I was given this by a “friend of an American”. Come in, over.”

In a mix of emotions, Adamas heard his friend’s voice, “Agent America, so good to hear your voice again. I was afraid we might have lost you.”

"It is good to hear from you too Adamas, No I wasn't lost but I am a guest in the Scarlet Orb. I would love for you to visit. I have made some new friends I would like you to meet." Agent America said. “The sooner the better, I would hate for you to miss the party.”

When they were at the entrance to the forest, Black Orchid said. "That doesn't look... pleasant.” She turned to Adamas and Red Hawk, "Should you try flying again? Walking through somebody's brain does not sound like a good idea."

Adamas informed the team they would have to walk. The Brain-Coral will not allow them to fly over it. It will pull them down.

"That's too bad about flying over. Can we at least try to fly around it? It seems like we'll lose a lot of time otherwise."

StrikeForce directed his comment towards the ensemble of heroes, but more directly to the core group of heroes. "So, what is our next move?"

Landing softly, Chris looked toward Black Orchid and StrikeForce. "From what I could tell, the map is accurate. If we are going to make it to the scarlet orb, it's going to be through there." Pointing one winged arm ominously through the twisting path before them.”

Cougar agreed with Red Hawk, “It is time for us to go, Menagerie and I will take point”. Menagerie in cougar form thought-sent his agreement. The entire them heard his telepathic communication.

The team started down the twisting path single file with Menagerie in the lead and Cougar close behind. Night Wraith reach up to grab a coral strain with each hand. He traveled by stretching and jumping from coral to coral, his rubbery skin protecting from the sharp edges of the coral.

{GM Note; If you send the movie The Incredibles, Night Wraith is moving exactly the same way that Elastigirl / Mrs. Incredible did on the roof tops and in the battle with the Giant Robot.}

Crude and Conquistador offered to bring up the rear guard. Crude maintained 6 foot height because of the coral being over head.

The heroes came to a clearing. In the clear are eight vintage WWII and Korean fighter planes.

The planes are in perfect condition. Machinist shouldering his Light Ray Rifle, he ran to the first aircraft he could reach. Inside the cockpit a still burning cigarette was found. Tumbleweeds rolled by him as the Machinist ran to check another plane. No crewman was present but the gas tanks are still half full and several of the planes carry live ammunition. On board flight plans show that all the planes were flying over the Bermuda Triangle.

“I knew it!” He yelled.”They were covering this up. The Government conspiracy was intended to keep the Domain a secret from the people. It appeared that someone was trying to make contact with the Domain; I bet they were trying to gain them as allies during both wars. Another mask removed!”

Cougar replied, “I don’t care about your conspiracy theories, Machinist. I want to know where the pilots are.”

“The pilots? Why the Demons must …” Machinist pulled his Light Ray Rifle from his shoulder. He blasted a tumbleweed.

[30] As he blasted a second one, the Machinist said, “They are moving in different directions and there isn’t any wind! They aren’t tumbleweeds but Demons!”

Night Wraith launched himself into the sky. As he glided he let out a low sonic wail. “My sonar is picking up 7 of them. They are surrounding us”

[29] One of the Y’Tego stopped moving. All of its fibers wavered and twitched. The Fibers stretched out straight and stiff.

“Aarrgh!” Machinist screamed and grabbed his head.

Adamas screamed at the same time. His brain was on fire. He was shocked by the pain.

{GM Note: Mind Blast attack as Mind Control type. He was hit for 7 points of damage; rolled with 6 for -6 Power Points and -1 Hit Point}

Red Hawk noticed that his internal fire walls were buffered but held.

{GM Note: Red Hawk’s Willpower defense against Mind Control and Emotion Control prevented him from being hit by the Mind Blast}

Conquistador yelled, “Everyone flee the area. They are Y’Tego they have a mental attack that can attack all those around them at once.”

Crude replied, “So ya’re telling me those critters yonder are Mind Grenades. Well, if that ain’t just dandy.”

Cougar said, “Exactly it will be better for only a few of us with range attacks stay to drive them off. Everyone else get out of here. Adamas since you know Agent America we need you to lead the others. Night Wraith, Machinist, and Conquistador with me everyone else go, now!”

[28] Adamas, The Skink, and Red Hawk fled the clearly through the opposite end that they came through.

[27] A second Y’Tego stopped moving. All of its fibers wavered and twitched. The Fibers stretched out straight and stiff.

“Aarrgh!” Machinist screamed and grabbed his head

StrikeForce grunted but did not cry out when the pain hit. It was worse than any migraine he had ever experienced.

{GM Note: Mind Blast attack as Mind Control type. He was hit for 10 points of damage; rolled with 7 for -7 Power Points and -3 Hit Points}

Black Orchid focused her mind. She ignored the pain before it could start. Her will was stronger than the Y’Tego’s mind.

[26] StrikeForce left the airplane graveyard, joining the rest of the Guardians who had escaped.

[23] A third Y’Tego stopped moving. All of its fibers wavered and twitched. The Fibers stretched out straight and stiff.

The Machinist let go a sigh of relief. “That one missed me.”

“Aarrgh!” Cougar screamed and grabbed his head.

Black Orchid focused her mind for a second time. She easily ignored the pain before it could start. Her will was stronger than this Y’Tego’s mind as well.

[23] A fourth Y’Tego stopped moving. All of its fibers wavered and twitched. The Fibers stretched out straight and stiff.

“Aarrgh!” Machinist screamed and grabbed his head

“Aarrgh!” Crude screamed and grabbed his head

Menagerie focused his mind to prevent the attack and successfully deflected it with his will.

[22] A fifth Y’Tego stopped moving. All of its fibers wavered and twitched. The Fibers stretched out straight and stiff.

“Aarrgh!” Machinist screamed and grabbed his head. He fell to the ground incapacitated.

“Aarrgh!” Conquistador screamed and grabbed his head

Menagerie focused his mind to prevent the second attack against him. He successfully deflected it with his will again.

[22] Cougar pulled two bolos from his harness. He threw one each at two Y’Tego that were still moving.

KABOOM! KABOOM!

Both bolos wrapped around their targets exploding when the bolo balls struck their victims. Both of the Y’Tego laid flat on the ground incapacitated.

“Two down, five to go”, Cougar said as he jumped on top of one of the fighter wings.

[21] Black Orchid ran to join the rest of the Guardian. She left the clearing safely.

[17] Night Wraith blasted an Y’Tego with a sonic blast. It rolled with the damage but it was still incapacitated.

“Three down” Night Wraith in a haunting wail that drifted across the clearing.

[17] Crude and Menagerie ran across the clearing joining the Guardians.

Menagerie thought-sent to the team, “We have to move on time is of the essence. The others will join us when they are able.” The man in cougar form started down the twisting coral path again.

[14] As the Guardians reluctantly started to leave, they saw Conquistador blast a fourth Y’Tego with a solid light construct. Crude thought it looked like a cannon ball but wasn’t sure. It might have been a bowling ball. Either way it had been flattened and was incapacitated.

“That’s four down. C’mon boys only three more, let’s git ‘er done” said Crude as turned to follow the others down the trail.

The heroes quietly and quickly follow the path through the coral. The path led into a small ravine. In the distance they saw dozens of Devilopes lay partially decomposed. The corpses emit a stench fouler than any the heroes have ever previously experienced.

“Whew! This is worse than that Kraken’s breath, even after it set me on fire. That in tarnation is a frightful awful smell”, Crude said.

Menagerie moved toward the edge of the ravine. He thought-sent, “It is nothing more than the cycle of nature. All life ends as nourishment to the land from which it came. This is nothing more. Still I would recommend we find a way around. Places like these are known to be considered private and sacred land to those that are left behind.”

The heroes were unable to find a path. “It would appear we will have to go through it,” Menagerie thought-sent.

As the heroes entered the ravine they heard a loud bellowing animalistic cry. Two Devilopes came charging toward them.

The Protectors of the Devilope Burial Ground challenged any Demon that dared to enter their ravine. They would not allow any feasting on their dearly departed. They bellowed challenges at the heroes.

Crude grew to 18 feet in height. “Okay, you Demon Pachyderms, if it a scrap you want then I’ll be ya huckleberry.” Crude looked to the Guardians and Menagerie. “Go, I will hold them off so you can get through safely. Don’t even think about arguing with me. It’s like my grandpappy would tell me, he was a Texas Ranger if I ain’t told ya before. My grandpappy always told me its ‘One Riot, One Ranger’ anymore than that then you’re wast’in resources.”

Crude charged into the Devilope on the left. He applied a forearm smash to its forehead. The Devilope staggered but didn’t fall. It stood and would continue to fight.

“C’mon you two, ya’ll smaller than that there Kraken but I’m bettin you have plenty of fight.”

The second Devilope mashed it trunk into Crude’s head. Crude dropped to one knee but was still awake and able to fight.

“Now that more to my like’n, you pink pachyderm.” Crude looked to Menagerie. “Now git moving all of you! I have a handle on this. Git to that Scarlet Orb and save all of our Earths.”

As Menagerie lead the Guardian past the Devilope Protectors, Crude stood raising both hands over his head. He smashed his fists into the first Devilope. It bellowed in pain but was able to withstand the blow. The fight continued on.

As the heroes left the Devilope Burial Ground, they heard the sounds of the titanic battle as it continued.

It was Conquistador and a stranger.

Conquistador told the heroes how they had defeated the Y’Tego but he was the only one not incapacitated. Nomad had arrived after the battle was over. He had brought Trekker with him.

{GM Note: We have added Christian to our game. Trekker is his character. I am trying something with his character that I have not done before. Trekker has Heightened Speed, combined with teleportation. So his Heightened Speed is multiple teleports like Nightcrawler. I always loved him and that power stunt. I have been reluctant in past to allow Heightened Speed because it is one of the powers that can dominate a game, making the other players by standers. I think with this character design it won’t be a problem.}

Conquistador introduced Trekker to the team.

{Flashback}

{Location: Himalayas, Earth}

A lone figure stood on the mountain top admiring the scenery. An unexpected person walked up the trail to him.

“Hello, I am Nomad. It would be a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Here allow me to open a door for you.

{End of Flashback}

They heard a telepathic cry for help. It came for the Brain Coral.

<Replies and Actions due Feb 15^th >

Battle Conditions:

Adamas Hit Points: 47 Power Points: 78 Invulnerability: 24

Black Orchid Hit Points: 30 Power Points: 87 Willpower Defense active; Invisible

Red Hawk Hit Points: 74 Power Points: 93 Invulnerability: 10; Willpower Def active

StrikeForce Hit Points: 60 Power Points: 86 Invulnerability: 28

The Skink Hit Points: 30 Power Points: 75 Evading

Trekker Hit Points: 11 Power Points: 50 Adaptation Defense active

Phase of Action:

[49] Trekker 1^st action

[42] Adamas

[34] Trekker 2^nd action

[30] Red Hawk

[30] The Skink

[27] StrikeForce

[24] Black Orchid

[19] Trekker 3^rd action

[17] Menagerie

[14] Conquistador

[04] Trekker 4^th action

{GM Note: I am including the Order of Actions and what phase they are on for the next turn. You can move and attack (dual attack if Agility over 15) on your Phase.}

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"Yes!" The Black Orchid says to herself, not too loudly, but anyone near can hear her enthusiasm. When it is clear they're gone, she says to the others, "I wasn't sure that was going to work. They probably weren't used to getting a beating like that either. Bullies are bullies even in other dimensions." She goes over to the new hero and holds out her hand [she'll wait to see if any of the more senior members step up first]. She clearly becomes more confident after each successful battle. "Hello, I'm The Black Orchid and welcome to our group."

--------------

The Black Orchid is clearly sad to see Jack go. "I understand where he's coming from, but still, I'll miss his carefree attitude."

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When they are at the entrance to the forest. "That doesn't look... pleasant. She turns to Adamas and Red Hawk, "Should you try flying again? Walking through somebody's brain does not sound like a good idea."

[Hey Tom, great issue (and not just because The Black Orchid's trick snagged the cover!) and thanks for letting me run with The Black Orchid's Darkness Control! I figure with her Heightened Intelligence she can quickly think of the kinds of things that might be effective in a given situation and give it a shot]

Marc

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You're welcome. Thanks for the kind words. I am glad you are having fun exploring Black Orchid's powers.

Best

Tom

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And welcome Chuck!

Also, The Black Orchid only realizes after she shakes hands with Skink that she is wearing the Machinist's sunglasses. She takes them off briefly, says "Sorry about that, it's a little bright for me here," and she puts them back on after a moment.

Marc

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I'm enjoying seeing Orchids powers gain depth. Reminds me of Susan Storm when Byrne took over the FF mag :)

John

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Stepping forward to meet the new arrival, the Bionic Brawler extends his hand and introduces himself. "My name is StrikeForce, I am pleased to make your acquaintance." He then directs his comments towards the ensemble of heroes, but more directly to the core group of heroes. "So, what is our next move?"

Jamey

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The short statured Skink takes in this bizarre place and this new group, keeping his distress at his escape in check... He nervously raps his small black claws on his belt buckle as he takes the scene in...

"Man, that was close back there! I thought I was sunk for sure... I wanna thank you guys for savin my hide back there... Whatever you got going on? You can count on The Skink to help get it done!

Show original message

Chuck

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Adamas IC:

Winking at Orchid, “Good idea, that little trick could prove very useful in the future.”

Turning to Nomad, and listening to his introduction he smiles and extends his hand to The Skink, “Welcome to the party.”

Adamas is saddened to see Jack Frost leave, and wishes him well.

He accepts the Crystal from Nomad, and tucks it away in his costume.

In a mix of emotions, Adamas hears his friends voice, “Agent America, so good to hear your voice again. I was afraid we might have lost you.”

Jon

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"It is good to hear from you too Adamas, No I wasn't lost but I am a guest in the Scarlet Orb. I would love for you to come visit. I have made some new friends I would like you to meet." Agent America said.

Adamas informed the team they will have to walk. The Brain-Coral will not allow them to fly over it. It will pull them down.

Thanks

Tom

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"Thank you Adamas." she says after a moment, not sure what to make of the wink.

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"That's too bad about flying over. Can we at least try to fly around it? It seems like we'll lose a lot of time otherwise."

----------------

"Skink, is that right? As you can obviously tell," The Black Orchid broadly waves a hand around her, "we're not in Kansas anymore. Some of us are finding that our abilities work a little differently here, wherever here is. You may want to test them briefly before we get in the heat of battle."

Marc

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Red Hawk IC [Replies and Responses]

Red Hawk has flown as high as possible while the team approached the Coral forest. The strange energies of this planet somehow seeming to alter the cells of his synthezoid body in ways Cyberdoom could only have guessed at. Arms wide as he circled downward, the swirling plasma currents making flight even more difficult as the team gathered around Nomad and his visitor. I don't know where he has come from, but he might had wished had stayed by the time out mission is complete. Landing softly, Chris introduces himself as Red Hawk, and looks toward Black Orchid. "From what I could tell, the map is accurate. If we are going to make it to the scarlet orb, it's going to be through there." Pointing one winged arm ominously through the twisting path before them.

John

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