Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 6 Part 1 - Chapter 12 Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:22:33 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Communications Glitches On 10-14-1999 at 00:19:42 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007691 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 22:12:46 -0400 >Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00007657 > >>On 10-12-99 Nemisis Said >> >>"If that is the Goal, >> There is No Difference." >> >>"Perhaps one day you will explain, >> Why that is the goal." > >#/It appears, Grandmother, that someday either Lord Fuzzy, or I, are >going to have to a chat on ethics with you. It is sometimes hard for >an organism to learn that the Ends do not *always* justify the Means. >However, at present, I believe that this is a lesson the present "Dr. >Essex" had learned the value of./# > >#/Perhaps a conversation on the subject with that Doctor might not be >a bad idea./# #/Yes Lord Dhyrclhanc, I will attempt to find an opportunity./# ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:22:39 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Quantum magic? On 10-14-1999 at 00:19:42 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007692 >On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 19:56:27 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007659 > >"I might be able to help, but I'd need both ends of an ansible for at >least thirty minutes. That way, I can scan them to see if they're >aligned similarly to the way that the 'split photon' theory works. If >not, there are a few other spells I know of that may be useful." > >"Actually, if I can get that before we leave, I may work with the >group going after the Cosmic Engineer. I have a vacc suit of my own, >just in case the castle can't supply enough of them." "There is an Old ten channel unit, On display in a Science Museum, At These {} Coordinates. Some hands on is encouraged..." "There is no shortage of Life Support systems." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:22:44 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On 10-14-1999 at 00:19:43 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007693 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 09:48:37 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007677 > > Eventually, he reached the castle and found a convenient place >to knock, adding in a pleasant voice, "A friend, coming from >Callahans, calling for the Army of Light." He flipped the matchbook >from the Place around in between his fingers as he waited. A very proper 'Old English' Butler steps into sight, "Very Good Sir, If you will follow me..." And leads him to the planning room. > "Hello," the blonde man says, holding the matchbood casually, >but allowing the cover to show, as if it were a letter of >introduction that he wasn't sure he'd need, "My name's Seth. I'd like >to help you on your quest, if I may be allowed." "Greetings Seth, Help is always Welcome." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:22:49 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On 10-14-1999 at 00:19:43 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007694 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 16:08:06 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007684 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:19:38 -0700 >>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007681 >> >> Eric turns to Major West. "If I may ask..." he nods in the >>direction of the Robinsons, centered most closely on John. "...how >>did you do that?" His eyes flicker to Rio. > > West grins, "Well first, you have to be right." > John adds with a smirk, "And that your opponent respects your >expertise, intelligence and acknowledges that you have the same >interests at heart." > Don smirks, "True, that never hurts. Then it's just a matter of >using all that." > "It doesn't hurt that your arguments are ones that your opponent >can't find fault with. And that you can show your way is more likely >to protect your opponent's interests than his." > Don nodded to John, folding his arms over his chest, then >bringing a thumb up to his lips as he rocks a bit in thought. "And if >that doesn't work, you punch him in the mouth." "In that case, I think that Major West may be the best selection, For the Group three Direction Spot." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:22:54 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: OOC: Armoury Tech On 10-14-1999 at 00:19:44 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007695 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 01:07:35 -0700 >Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007685 > >Stranger headed out to the armoury, looking for a GURPS style TL12 >biosuit. > > The Armoury would not have it "In Stock", It would be taylored for you on request... Though the Attendants may try to get you to take one of the, ForceField Suits instead... The GURPS Style Tech Level in the Castle is 14+, Creative applications can be as high as 15 or 16, And Techno-Magic Devices are availible as well... I don't know how they would rate... ;) ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:26:52 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Quantum magic? On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 23:48:24 -0700 Harlock - Bard Extraordinaire Said As CAoL Message # 00007696 >Peter Eng wrote: >"Best option is having me come along to get a look at the microchips >used in their switching stations." Harlock looks at the crowd heading for the castle and smirks. "With this crew, somebody ought to be able to provide a sample chip...or at least a good approximation thereof. You'd probably know better than I who to ask." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 01:04:56 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:53:27 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007697 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 16:08:06 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007684 > Don nodded to John, folding his arms over his chest, then >bringing a thumb up to his lips as he rocks a bit in thought. "And if >that doesn't work, you punch him in the mouth." Eric smiles wryly. "I'm afraid that's not an option in my case." His head shifts slightly, as if considering...then he shakes his head. But the wry smile is still there. >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 01:07:35 -0700 >Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007685 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:31:20 -0700 >>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007680 >> >> Eric looks Stranger over, not rudely, just calmly, from behind >>the shades, > >He will certainly note Stranger's long dark coat and braod brimmed >hat. Beneath can be seen black combat boots and trousers and a dark >green shirt. Tucked into the front of Stranger's belt is a Colt >Python and it's obvious that Stranger has a pair of swords on his >belt from the hang of the coat. A man as observant as Hunter will >certainly notice the bulges in Stranger's armpits, and he may even >notice the ankle holsters, although they are much better concealed >and impossible to get to in a hurry under the combats. Eric notices the bulges, but not the ankle holsters. He is as clearly impressed as a man like this is likely to allow himself to be. (OOC: It seems that Eric and Stranger shop at the same clothes stores. ) >>then nods and takes his hand. "Eric Lancer." He grins ruefully. "A >>Stranger and an Actress. Maybe I _should_ just call myself >>'Hunter.'" > >Stranger's handshake is firm, but not overly so. He smiles back. > >"We're starting to sound like a Gladiators team." Eric's head cocks to one side, a vaguely confused look on his face. Then he shrugs. "Ah, what the heck. Hunter it is." >> ...then he cocks his head at her as she leaves, nodding. "Hrm. >>Full of surprises..." > >"No one here is exactly what they seem." Adds Stranger, almost to >himself. Eric smiles slyly. "Why, I'm exactly what I appear to be. Gives most people fits." >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 18:54:59 -0700 (PDT) >The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007687 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 12:31:20 -0700 >>The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007680 >> >> Eric's eyes light up again, a dark amused gaze, at the excuse to >>go back into the armory and pick up more equipment. He looks at >>Mandy briefly, not exactly crazy about her coming along... > > Raver raised a white eyebrow at Eric's body language, which was >telegraphing doubt clearly enough for a demon to read... > > OOC: Eric's wearing sunglasses, isn't he? (OOC: Yep. But in this case, it's his expression more than just the look in his eyes, and in this lot, I suspect that quite a few folx can tell what those eyes are doing. The jade in those shades is a focus for one of his powers, but they serve another purpose - his eyes are easily his most expressive trait, and he doesn't like to give _anything_ away. 8^) >> ...then he cocks his head at her as she leaves, nodding. "Hrm. >>Full of surprises..." > > Raver settled for a brief amused smile. "Yes. She spent a year >or so training with Wanderer. A striking example of a Warrior, for >one of your species." The capital emphasis is clear in her voice, as >is the respect. "Even if he relies more on guns than I would prefer." Eric shrugs and nods. "So long as she can fight without them, if need be. I use them myself, though more for the surprise value of bullets that can actually harm night-folk than anything else." Eric leaves the group for a while (see Expect the Unexpected for details 8^) and comes back apparently unchanged. Unless one is able to note the considerably more advanced armor in his clothing, the environment-maintaining forcefield system, and the 'energy pool' weapon system woven into his gloves. (OOC: Will be mostly ABEND for the weekend - my water brother's getting married! Hooray! Anyway, the paragraph above takes place when I return, probably after another 'character developing' post.) ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 01:35:02 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:56:30 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007698 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 09:48:37 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007677 > > If no one meets him and nothing bars him entry, he'll make his >way inside slowly, shoes clacking across the floor, calling out on >occasion as he makes his way gradually toward the planning room. > right, a powerfully brilliant golden halo. Roland boggles. A solid-color Halo? No, wait, that's not an immortal's halo... > "Hello," the blonde man says, holding the matchbood casually, >but allowing the cover to show, as if it were a letter of >introduction that he wasn't sure he'd need, "My name's Seth. I'd like >to help you on your quest, if I may be allowed." /"Somehow,"/ Roland says slowly, /"I don't think that will be a problem."/ ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 01:35:07 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 01:05:28 -0700 Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007699 >On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 13:15:56 PST >Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007686 > >>On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 21:56:42 -0700 >>Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007667 >> >> The neural-interface comment draws Roland back briefly from >>whatever is holding so much of his attention on Earth-9. /"Neural >>interface? I don't know about your Amber's version of Random's son >>Martin - or even if he has one - but I still have that favor in the >>Amber I know. The Martin I know has this...well...it's a Cybernetic >>Trump deck. I know it's impossible; he did it anyway. You probably >>wouldn't want a plug in the side of your neck, but I'm sure less >>invasive equipment can be designed to do the same thing. And he's >>'Symboled,' assuming their Pattern is compatible with yours."/ > >Nemo looks slightly uncomfortable. > >"Wouldn't that mean involving GhostWheel, at least peripherally[1]?" Roland blinks. /"Don't think so. Martin - at least, the version I know - made his own equipment. Mind you,"/ he adds, /"I only met him briefly - the proverbial friend of a friend - and I wouldn't put it past that version of Ghostwheel to be surreptitiously involved in Martin's developments - but to the best of my knowledge, Martin's Trump-Tech was autonomous."/ (OOC: No relation to the creator of everyone's favorite Lensdragon - at least, AFAIK. 8^) >[1], yes, I know it makes a bad pun. But it's also the appropriate >word. Deal with it. (OOC: Why, thank you for suggesting it. I would have anyway, but being given carte blanche to do so makes things so much easier... ) 88888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 88888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 88888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 88888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 88888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 02:35:04 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: House Phoenix/Greywolf On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 05:03:50 EDT SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007700 >In a message dated 10/13/99 12:05:31 AM Eastern Daylight Time, >ljwolfe writes: > >>Roger grins. "Been there, done that, got the T-shirt. In fact, I >>even took Uncle Rob with me." >>He blinks at Rob. "Oops, sorry, wrong Rob. I meant Uncle Rob >>'Heinlein,' not Nishikawa..." > > (OOC: Assuming this is in the Place...) > Roland practically turns green with envy. "You met Heinlein?! >Nass, he died before I Erupted." His eyes narrow. "How...I don't >think I want to know." Roger, who is getting rather tired of Correspondance Spirits piling on him all the time, manages to maintain an absolutely neutral expression and a still tongue. It's not easy, though.... [Oh, Dad, you thought the universe would let *him* die? Boy, do you have something to look forward to. And I'm NOT gonna spoil it for you, damn it.] ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 02:35:20 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 05:03:58 EDT SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007701 >In a message dated 10/11/99 10:12:23 PM Eastern Daylight Time, >rolandx writes: > > "I'll join that last group," Eric says, his voice more >businesslike than dry. "I don't think that I'll be able to help much >in the scheming against the Ansible Guild, and while the Paradox >mages have to deal with doesn't concern me, I suspect a plain old >temporal paradox could wipe me out as quickly as the next mortal. >This Cosmic Engineer device, however, sounds like it requires a >certain amount of combat savvy and flexibility." He smiles. It's not >a pleasant smile. "That sounds like my department." OOC Note: I'm splicing this in from a Roger&Rio chat session Morgan and I held. The timing takes place soon after the end of the conversation at the end of the "Exploring" post. Unfortunately, my ICQ log refuses to export, so I'm doing this by hand. Any errors are mine. And no, Roger is *not* smoking. Anything. Smoldering around the edges a bit, maybe.... /OOC Roger and Rio enter the planning room soon enough to catch Eric's announcement. Rio looks over the tables. "Hmm." ^Roger?^ ^Yes, Luv?^ ^I'd really rather not go on the "IF" group. That 'oneeye' fellow gives me the creeps.^ ^Hmm. I'm normally somewhat paradox-immune, but I think I'm stretching that already. Plus, the IF team looks like pure big-gun stuff. I agree.^ Rio: ^Team 1 looks pretty full, but I suppose there's always room for one more. Or we could go after the Cosmic Engineer.^ Roger: ^Hmm. I'm inclined towards the Blue Horizon/ Cosmic Engineer myself. Team 1 already has a full load of sneaks and fast-talkers. (:) Well, it looks like we keep your brother company. Unless you have a different --or separate-- preference?^ Rio looks thoughtful, weighing pros and cons. ^Well, since I'd pick that group if all other things were equal, I can't see letting Eric's presence change our minds. Besides,^ she gets a wicked grin, ^It might be fun making him squirm.^ (said very playfully -- she *is* a little sister after all....) ^You, m'Luv, have an evil, eevil mind. I love you.^ She smiles, and kisses Roger -- Not a big, melting kiss though, not here. She will observe *some* proprieties...:-) ^Careful, Luv -- me puir kness cannae take the strain, y'know! Warn me first!...^ He grins at her in a way that shows he hopes she does exactly the opposite. Roger speaks out loud: "I'm inclined towards Team 3, unless someone feels a particular need for me elsewhere." "Same here," Rio adds, unsurprisingly, her arm still linked with Roger's. She looks at Eric, waiting to see what, if anything, he'll have to say about this development.... ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 05:34:44 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room, Group One On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 08:03:19 -0400 Caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00007702 >On 10-12-1999 at 12:04:17 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007636 > >>On Mon, 11 Oct 1999 21:14:23 PST >>Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007624 >> >>"I feel the best method is to do an in-depth backgound build-up, so >>that the 'breakthrough' will seem 'inevitable' if anyone tries to >>trace its origins." >> >>"First, there will be researchers nudged into investigating some odd >>results that have been ignored for some time. Their results will be >>published in obscure journals. Pre-prints will go out over the >>'net." > >"Which will have been planted by the BackTime Setup team. > They can do at least this much without being too obvious." > >>"Next will be speculation in various newsgroups and mailing lists, >>mostly wrong, but with the seeds of the devices in some of them. >>Most of the groups with the right ideas will be 'crackpot' or >>devoted to science fiction related matters." > >"This much might be possible." > >>"Since a large number od scientists *do* read such areas, and also >>write SF, the next step will be both further research and the >>appearance in fiction of devices close enough to the real thing that >>most legal systems will consider the stories as 'prior art' making >>them unpatentable." > >"At this point if done BackTime, > 'The Guardians of IF', > Will almost assuredly notice..., But > Since This Team's actions do not threaten them in any way, > They may not do anything about it... > They may even assist if it suits their purposes..." > >"And That makes a nice added point, > To keep it in the Public Domain." Dr. Essex frowns, "You may want to hold this stage to the past... month or so local time." >>"The final blow will be getting the design as a 'sample application' >>on manufacturer's data sheets for several of the more critical >>components." >> >>"At that point, *we* would have trouble killing it." > >"Sounds Good to me." > >"Dr. Essex, > Do you have any thoughts on this at this time?" Dr. Essex comments, "Several. The first being that we have too little information to be making hard and fast plans." >>Dr. Essex nods, "Very well... I propose that Legion and I take a >>small spacecraft, something that can discretely pass as local. We >>can wait the couple of days to a week for her to adjust completely, >>then re-evaluate the plan based on the 'local' information her new >>persona provides. Then we will begin our infiltation of the Guild." > >"I will have a Family Outing Class Craft prep'ed , > With Variable Bipolar Time Dilation Capacity, > ETC 15 Minutes..." Dr. Essex and Legion rise to their feet, hand in hand. "Excellant. I propose that Legion and I leave as soon as it is ready." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 08:05:04 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 07:28:15 -0700 The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007703 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 05:03:58 EDT >SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007701 > >Roger and Rio enter the planning room soon enough to catch Eric's >announcement. Rio looks over the tables. "Hmm." ^Roger?^ >Roger speaks out loud: "I'm inclined towards Team 3, unless someone >feels a particular need for me elsewhere." >"Same here," Rio adds, unsurprisiingly, her arm still linked with >Roger's. She looks at Eric, waiting to see what, if anything, he'll >have to say about this development.... Eric gives Rio a level look, then goes back to examining the meeting room info, pointing a thumb at a corridor. "Armory." Rio looks levelly at Eric, then sighs resignedly. "Anything in particular you recommend?" She asks dryly. "Light armor. Personal force field system. At least two holdout weapons, one low-tech and one high-tech." Eric's tone is all business, with just a hint of flatness. Rio frowns at Eric, then looks at Roger and remembers how much of _his_ clothing was armor-enhanced . She sighs again. "Oh, alright." To Roger: ^Hang out here for a while then go get me 'armored up'?^ (OOC: Assuming Roger assents, that's what they do.) ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 10:09:42 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 11:08:35 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007704 >On 10-14-1999 at 00:19:43 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007693 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 09:48:37 -0500 (CDT) >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007677 >> >>Eventually, he reached the castle and found a convenient place to >>knock, adding in a pleasant voice, "A friend, coming from Callahans, >>calling for the Army of Light." He flipped the matchbook from the >>Place around in between his fingers as he waited. > >A very proper 'Old English' Butler steps into sight, >"Very Good Sir, > If you will follow me..." >And leads him to the planning room. The blonde man smiles (Then again, has he ever stopped?) and follows the butler to the planning room at an easy, fluid pace. There's something vaguely unnatural in that walk, but it's hard to put a finger on. The movements seem calculated in some fashion. In fact, so does all his behavior, though it doesn't feel machinelike calculated, just not human, as if approximating how one should move. >>"Hello," the blonde man says, holding the matchbood casually, but >>allowing the cover to show, as if it were a letter of introduction >>that he wasn't sure he'd need, "My name's Seth. I'd like to help you >>on your quest, if I may be allowed." > >"Greetings Seth, > Help is always Welcome." "Thank you, Nemisis..." Seth replies. He strolls around the room, his pace suddenly perfectly natural and human. Glancing at terminal three, Seth smiles, "Not my forte." He moves to terminal one, "Already pretty full." He then turns to terminal two, reaching out and scrolling through the past discussion. He nods, "This looks more promising." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 10:10:35 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 11:09:24 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007705 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:56:30 -0700 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007698 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 09:48:37 -0500 (CDT) >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007677 >> >> >right, a powerfully brilliant golden halo. > > Roland boggles. A solid-color Halo? No, wait, that's not an >immortal's halo... > >> "Hello," the blonde man says, holding the matchbood casually, >>but allowing the cover to show, as if it were a letter of >>introduction that he wasn't sure he'd need, "My name's Seth. I'd >>like to help you on your quest, if I may be allowed." > > /"Somehow,"/ Roland says slowly, /"I don't think that will be a >problem."/ Seth smiles, "Thank you, and forgive me for the unspoken play on words." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 12:48:27 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 18:44:40 GMT Tech Tonic Said As CAoL Message # 00007707 > "Thank you, Nemisis..." Seth replies. > He strolls around the room, his pace suddenly perfectly natural >and human. Glancing at terminal three, Seth smiles, "Not my forte." >He moves to terminal one, "Already pretty full." He then turns to >terminal two, reaching out and scrolling through the past discussion. >He nods, "This looks more promising." OneEye appraises Seth with his one good eye as it flashes a deep blue. The merchant staggers slightly, then grins. "Quite an effect friend. With power like yers, we'd be glad to have ya! ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 12:48:35 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Quantum magic? On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 12:12:57 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007708 >On 10-14-1999 at 00:19:42 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007692 > >>On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 19:56:27 -0700 (PDT) >>Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007659 >> >>"I might be able to help, but I'd need both ends of an ansible for >>at least thirty minutes. That way, I can scan them to see if they're >>aligned similarly to the way that the 'split photon' theory works. >>If not, there are a few other spells I know of that may be useful." > >"There is an Old ten channel unit, > On display in a Science Museum, > At These {} Coordinates. > Some hands on is encouraged..." "Which would be helpful, if I had that fine a control. Unfortunately, my dimension jumping is mostly random." >>"Actually, if I can get that before we leave, I may work with the >>group going after the Cosmic Engineer. I have a vacc suit of my own, >>just in case the castle can't supply enough of them." > >"There is no shortage of Life Support systems." "Good enough. I'll still use my own, if necessary. It's become accustomed to me." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 12:48:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: A brief duel, and a new ally... On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 12:29:21 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007709 The giant slug crawls towards Rob, intent on crushing him under its bulk. Reaching for power, he ties it together into a complex structure which he tosses at the ground beside the slug. The earth glows, and shifts into the form of a swimming pool filled with a brown liquid. The slug pauses, then slides into the swimming pool, and drowns. "What was that?" "A spell I picked up from a fraternity at IOU. Create Swimming Pool Filled With Beer, they called it." "Amusing," the mage snarls. "But enough playing around." Pulling energy into his own construct, he ignites it, and throws a fireball. Rob parries with a spell which calculates the exact speed of the fireball to over a thousand decimal places, then impresses this information on the universe. The universe promptly loses track of the fireball's location. "My turn," Rob laughs. Whistling a snatch of an unknown tune while performing an odd dance, he drops a mass of decaying fish on his opponent. As the mage digs himself out, Rob prepares another spell. "This is your best spell? A meteor strike will teach you something about...*urk*," the mage chokes out, as an odd look comes into his eyes. A moment later, he collapses, retching. "No, this is one of my best spells. It works on people who would laugh off fireballs or lightning bolts." The mage makes no reply, instead digging his fingers into the ground in an attempt to grab onto something that isn't spinning. Pulling his Swiss Army knife from his pocket, Rob walks up to his fallen opponent, snaps out a blade, and touches the back of the knife to the mage's throat. "Bang. You're dead." The scene freezes, and reverts to a plain gym. "Hm. Didn't use anything but magic for him. I'll have to up the difficulty next time." Looking at the timer on the wall, he sighs. "Time's almost up, and I'm hungry." *************** After a quick stop in the kitchen, he walks into the planning room, just in time to see... >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007677 > >Eric and Rob would see (Seth as) a Zen master. ...and blinks, as the image changes to add... >a great deal of magical? mystical? spiritual? power held in reserve. Rob says something in a language nobody recognizes. The tone of his voice, however, indicates something mixing surprise, awe, and possibly recognition. ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 14:02:52 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room, Group One On 10-14-1999 at 14:00:25 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007710 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 08:03:19 -0400 >Caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00007702 > >>On 10-12-1999 at 12:04:17 >>Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007636 >> >>"At this point if done BackTime, >> 'The Guardians of IF', >> Will almost assuredly notice..., But >> Since This Team's actions do not threaten them in any way, >> They may not do anything about it... >> They may even assist if it suits their purposes..." >> >>"And That makes a nice added point, >> To keep it in the Public Domain." > >Dr. Essex frowns, "You may want to hold this stage to the past... >month or so local time." "As the Group one Director, That is entirely your call. Aurora if you would pass the word on Timing? >>"Dr. Essex, >> Do you have any thoughts on this at this time?" > >Dr. Essex comments, "Several. The first being that we have too little >information to be making hard and fast plans." "Keep us posted as Plans Develop, If you can." >>"I will have a Family Outing Class Craft prep'ed , >> With Variable Bipolar Time Dilation Capacity, >> ETC 15 Minutes..." > >Dr. Essex and Legion rise to their feet, hand in hand. "Excellant. I >propose that Legion and I leave as soon as it is ready." "Have a good trip." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 14:02:58 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Quantum magic? On 10-14-1999 at 14:00:26 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007711 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 12:12:57 -0700 (PDT) >Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007708 > >>On 10-14-1999 at 00:19:42 >>Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007692 >> >>>On Tue, 12 Oct 1999 19:56:27 -0700 (PDT) >>>Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007659 >> >>"There is an Old ten channel unit, >> On display in a Science Museum, >> At These {} Coordinates. >> Some hands on is encouraged..." >"Which would be helpful, if I had that fine a control. Unfortunately, >my dimension jumping is mostly random." "You could check a one person D-Flyer out from the Carriage House, Or I will be glad to send a Split with you, To handle Gate Generation and any needed Equipment, That you do not already have." >>>"Actually, if I can get that before we leave, I may work with the >>>group going after the Cosmic Engineer. I have a vacc suit of my >>>own, just in case the castle can't supply enough of them." >> >>"There is no shortage of Life Support systems." > >"Good enough. I'll still use my own, if necessary. It's become >accustomed to me." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 15:09:58 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 14:19:13 PST Nemo Said As CAoL Message # 00007712 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:53:27 -0700 >The Hunter Said As CAoL Message # 00007697 > > Eric shrugs and nods. "So long as she can fight without them, if >need be. I use them myself, though more for the surprise value of >bullets that can actually harm night-folk than anything else." Considers this for a moment and pipes up. "There's a 'weapon' I've used in the past that you might find useful because it has that same effect." "It appears to be a flashlight, with an odd sort of slide control for illumination. The surprise is that that light source is a sort of 'gate'. One of a pair. The other end is set up to so that it is in direct sunlight. You adjust the brightness by moving it towards or away from the sun." "I'm sure you can appreciate the surprise factor of a flashlight that is nothing but a 'pipe' to raw sunlight." "I class it as a weapon, because if you adjust the brightness far enough, it's bright enough that it might as well be a laser. Consider just how 'bright' the sunlight at the suns *surface* is, for example." "Though I can easily set the maximum level to anything lower, if you'd rather not weild something *that* destructive. It will still be an unexpected advantage against many of the creatures you fight." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 17:33:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 19:51:41 EDT SkyeFire Said As CAoL Message # 00007716 >In a message dated 10/14/99 4:35:19 AM Eastern Daylight Time, >ljwolfe writes: > >> >right, a powerfully brilliant golden halo. > > Roland boggles. A solid-color Halo? No, wait, that's not an >immortal's halo... Roger boggles in a comically identical expression, albeit for slightly different reasons. "Oy....Vey," he whispers. It sounds...literal. >> "Hello," the blonde man says, holding the matchbood casually, >>but allowing the cover to show, as if it were a letter of >>introduction that he wasn't sure he'd need, "My name's Seth. I'd >>like to help you on your quest, if I may be allowed." > > /"Somehow,"/ Roland says slowly, /"I don't think that will be a >problem."/ "Not for us, I don't think," Roger muses aloud. He doesn't seem to realize that he's spoken. ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 17:37:46 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 20:33:27 EDT Dane0R0A Said As CAoL Message # 00007719 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007666 > > Roland looks puzzled for a moment, though it doesn't seem to be >directed at Will. His form shifts briefly to his Defender armor, then >back to Blaze. /"We'd be happy to help you folks out, 'no charge,' so >to speak. We're trying to help a friend of our own, presumed dead, >recover from whatever state he's in now, if possible. If you'd like >to help out, you're certainly welcome. But if you'd like, I could >examine you and your ship, 'feel' the reality you belong in, and >transport you there. I'm not sure if I could 'port the whole ship by >myself, but with the tech here increasing my volume limits shouldn't >be too much of an issue."/ Roland looks over at Aurora questioningly. /*"If you can identify the universe, I can send them back with no problem."*/ Aurora answers the un-asked question. ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 18:11:59 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room On 10-14-1999 at 18:09:28 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007720 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 20:33:27 EDT >Dane0R0A Said As CAoL Message # 00007719 > >/*"If you can identify the universe, I can send them back with no >problem."*/ Aurora answers the un-asked question. "I do not know for Roland, But it will take me several weeks to narrow it down, from its near alternates... And as I say Roland's Method may be faster." ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 18:19:35 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room, Group One On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 21:15:27 EDT Dane0R0A Said As CAoL Message # 00007723 >Caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00007702 > >>On 10-12-1999 at 12:04:17 >>Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007636 >> >>"At this point if done BackTime, >> 'The Guardians of IF', >> Will almost assuredly notice..., But >> Since This Team's actions do not threaten them in any way, >> They may not do anything about it... >> They may even assist if it suits their purposes..." >> >>"And That makes a nice added point, >> To keep it in the Public Domain." > >Dr. Essex frowns, "You may want to hold this stage to the past... >month or so local time." /*"My people have been instructed to time their ansible activities in such a way as to become public AFTER you begin your infiltrations. In this way they will draw the attention of the Guild away from you. Polaris will watch you and cue them."*/ Aurora interjects. ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 19:05:49 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room, Group One On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 21:20:57 EDT Dane0R0A Said As CAoL Message # 00007724 >Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007710 > >>On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 08:03:19 -0400 >>Caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00007702 >> >>Dr. Essex comments, "Several. The first being that we have too >>little information to be making hard and fast plans." > >"Keep us posted as Plans Develop, > If you can." /*"Polaris will watch you, and coordinate the activities of my people to your activities. If you need to contact one or more of them if you call her name, she will answer. She of course will keep you up to date with current information."*/ Aurora answers. ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 19:05:53 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: The Planning Room, Group Two On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 21:26:57 -0400 Zia Said As CAoL Message # 00007725 Ziactrice pauses a second at the door, seeing a newcomer unknown to her joining the grouping around the 'Second Squad' table. She has apparently taken the opportunity for a higher-magic place such as this to 'spiff herself up', if in a rather odd manner. Opalescent white material, edged like small blades, but glowing with a depth like that of pearls themselves has replaced her eyebrows, and curls further around her eyes. The bone? horn? structures seem to diminish quite naturally into the skin somewhere above the cheek bones. Cutouts along her shoulders, forearms, chest and back through the armored tabard dress that is her usual garb remade to fit show more of the same, although the larger 'protusions' show some slight lines akin to how a fingernail might from growth. She makes her introduction to Seth, apparently just wanting to find out his name. She will not shake his hand, but bow instead, even if offered same. Although she is just 'terribly' polite about it. After she (I assume ) survives that encounter, she'll return to 'all-business' attitude. "Well, I hope I didn't unduly delay things." She notes to Nemo, "I seem to have needed a bit of solid rest, to get back into shipshape, so to speak." Ziactrice -Yes, she really is modeled after one of the 'real' characters from Zelzany's books, but significantly changed. Can you guess which one? ================================= Date: Thu, 14 Oct 1999 21:42:38 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Search For Fuzzy (Long!)(Sorrry!) On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 23:34:14 -0400 Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00007726 >Morgan and/or Roland Said > >>Dhyrclhanc Said >> >>"Eric, let me be the first to formally welcome you to the >>'Callahanian Army of Light'." says the immortal "adolescent" >>hatchling ruby fire dragon, winking in the Hunter's direction. > > Eric blinks behind his glasses. "Roland." > "Yes, Eric?" > "That's a dragon, Roland." > Roland smiles and nods. "Yes, Eric." > "It's a cybernetic, cape-wearing dragon with a mirror and a dozen >gems implanted in his head, and what looks like a Green Lantern ring >on one talon, Roland." > "Very perceptive, Eric." > Eric shrugs and mutters to himself about wiseacres... ROFLMAO!!! Still, more or less, lounging, more or less, in front of the Fireplace, the Big Guy(tm) smiles. It isn't that it's an exactly _unpleasant_ smile but there's several factors involved that are hard to ignore. First, the being that's smiling is a semi-humanoid reptilian that's speculated to be extinct in the geographical areas surrounding Long Island, NY, and most points in the vicinity of the the planet, not to mention the surrouning reality. Second, the smiling mouth contains razor sharp teeth that are nasty enough to turn a Megalodon green with envy and give any dentist a massive corinary. Third, the being doing the smiling is built in such a formidable fashion that he would likely cause the T-Rex from "Jurassic Park" go running back to it's Mommy if not simply soil it's pants. Dhyrclhanc's Aspect flickers momentarily around him and his true-lens shimmers brightly, if fleetingly, as well. Standing next to Lancer, a psychic(?) image of everyone's lovable Sentinel/Lensdragon, in his, wingless, psuedo-T'Skrang guise appears and streches out a three digited hand towards the Hunter. "Allow me to properly introduce myself. I am Dhyrclhanc the Sentinel/Lensdragon. Since you seem to know my brother, he must have doubtlessly mentioned something about me." (assuming that Eric shakes his hand, the projection, at least, feels solid enough. Then again, it would seeing how DC's got ShZ rank Psyche, Mn rank Telepathy and Am rank TK) "The 'cybernetics'," he continues to the most proably awestruck Hunter, are limited to a handfull of 'Guardian/Osiris/Panimmunity Pharmaphage/Production Reserve Nanitite Drone Colonies'. The 'cape' is a 'reproduction Minbarri An'la'Shoc(sp?) greatcloak' complete with "Ranger's Pin" worn in remembrance and homage to a honored departed colleague who was one of the most noble and honorable individuals who I have ever met and who was, IMHO, probably the best specimen of humanity I have ever encountered. Certainly, a much better example than that syphilitic twit, Byron." An empty shot glass, or the psychic equivalent of the same, appears in the projection's hand. "To Marcus." he says flatly. Whereupon he tosses it, overhand, behind him. Where it goes through the head of the Real Dhyrclhanc and tinkles, making a melancholy sound, into the Fireplace. "Where was I? Oh yes. The 'mirror' is a 'True Lens of Arissia'; a psychic intensifer and magnifier which multiplies my native psi attributes and abilities threefold. The 'half-dozen' gems are five mana-stones which fuel my spell-casting abilities and allow me to exist even in mana-scarce environments such as your native realm. Where, I hasten to add, I would certainly immediately dissapear in a puff of vapor from the weight of shear disbelief." "And they aren't imbeded in my head; they're part of a headband I wear." "Finaly, the 'Green Lantern ring' is indeed, a 'Green Lantern ring'. In point of fact it is one of the first such rings created by the {Oan/Maltusian} Guardians. Later to be misused by one of their earthly charges, then combined with the Starheart; one of Omni-Cosm's main artifacts of Chaos Magick, then re-found and re-forged by my predecessor to the title 'Sentinel', Alan Scott, after which it eventualy fell into my hands when the pre-natal CAoL ended up on the ruins of Oa, or an other-dimensional cognate." "Precisely how I got it, is still a mystery, as AFAIK, it was supposed to have been destroyed by an usurper to the Power of the {Oan/Maltusians} who, at least, wore the guise of one of their previous agents." Then the projection aquired a look on his face that reminded Roland of an aide of Kosh's; a certain "viccar" named "Abbut", or a certain ignomous(sp?) and infamous sciffy writer whose first name begins with an "H" and whose last name begins with an "E". "But enough about me. What about you? What do you think of me?" ================================= Date: Fri, 15 Oct 1999 01:13:49 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE:Enter the Vampire. (was:Re: AAE:Uncommon Allies) On Fri, 14 Oct 1983 23:52:26 -0700 Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00007727 >On Tue, 11 Oct 1983 22:48:00 -0700 >Driscoll Said As CAoL Message # 00007620 > Squee nodded "Right. and then you can let me know what I want." > Joe gives Squee the thumbs up. "I'll see ya then." and steps through >the portal. The portal opens up on a huge expanse of grasslands. Joe has to pause a moment to wonder at the sight of it. Any moment he expected to see Kevin Cosner appear dressed in buckskins. High overheard a hawk circled in the sky, scouting out its next meal. A mile or so off, Joe could see the forms of Cows or Buffalo or something out grazing happily. Not many things un-nerved Jow, but being a long devoted city kid, this was starting to. He could see forestland off quite a ways distant from where he currently stood, and in another direction, huge mountains seemed to loom up. squinting a bit, he could make out what looked like a castle set into the mountainside. "Castles again. Don't tell me this is that Misern place again. If so they've done a hell of a landscaping job." Joe adjusted his equipment and began a run towards the castle. A run for him however was well over a hundred miles per hour. And with the castle only a few miles in the distance, he crossed that span in minutes. He looked up at the castle. A path wound up towards the gates. But that was the easy way in. And until he was sure what he was getting into, that wasn't for him. Joe looked up the wall instead and decided a little climb might be nice. Concentrating a bit, his fingers turned into talon-like claws and driving those claws into the stone face of the wall, he began his climb up the side of the castle. A Half dozen stories up, Joe finds a window he can wriggle through and enters the castle. He finds himself in a luxuriously spacious bedroom that almost looked larger than Joe's entire apartment. Curiosity and paranoia lead him to go checking out all the doors, finally finding the one leading to the long hallway. Looking up and down it, Joe pciks a direction at random and closes the door behidn him as he leaves. The hall feels like it goes on forever, Always twisting and turning with doors on either side that seems to number in the hundreds. Finally deciding that walking down this hall isn't getting him anywhere, Joe pulls open a door at random. First he looked through the door, to this strange looking room, all black with white gridwork on the walls and ceiling and floor. Joe couldn't see any other features to the room. Taking a few steps inside to take a better look, he made the mistake of letting the door close behind him. The room seemed to light up. A voice from nowhere said, "Initializing default program DXLF301-Alpha. Please state difficulty level." Joe looked around him perplexed. "A what level? I don't know about you, but I just want out of here 23 skidoo and all that jive." "Difficulty level 23 loading." Around Joe figures began appearing from nowhere. Automatically he reached into his coat and pulled out his Thompson sum-machine gun. The figures started swarming towards him. Joe still didn't know what they were or where he was, but this was obviously a threat. The Thompson began spitting out it's deadly payload. Leaden death flew out at the figures, impacting heads adn chests and arms, but not seeming to have much effect. The first figure reached out touching him with an electircal shock. "Oh THAT'S it you Yutz!!" Joe reached out and grabbed the figure by the arm, swinging him like a club to knock down the closest five forms. All six vanished from sight, but the other twenty or so were still converging. Joe re-formed his claws and began slicing through all the figures before him, cutting them down like just so much grain. As each fell, they vanished from sight until finally Joe stood alone again. "You cut down my minions easily enogh, but let us see how well you can deal with a fell beast such as this" came a voice from behind Joe. He whirled around, to find only a thickly growing fog that even his senses weren't helping him see through. Joe could feel eyes watching him from somewhere, but all he could see was fog. Then suddenly from nowhere a pair of claws came raking at him. He just barely moved out of the way in time before they vanished again. A second later the claws appeared again, this time one raked Joe's side, slicing it open and sending blood flying. But he managed to grab hold of the second one before it could vanish into the mist. Joe sneered and bared his fangs. Then he chomped down on the wrist of the arm he held. A scream filled the room and the fog started rolling away to reveal a tall lanky demon who's arm is currently being bitten by Joe. It tries to pull it's arm away, but Joe proves a match for its strength and holds fast. Finally the demon gives up and fades away from sight as well, leaving Joe alone again. Joe's hand went down to probe the damage to his side. It was tender, but the tissue was regenerating and the side was bright black and blue as the blood flowed in to heal. Whatever this place was, it was obviously real. "You've defeated the servent. Can you best the master?" came the voice again. This time Joe's hearing could pinpoint it more to the left. Turnign that way, he could now see a man floating a few feet above the ground, dressed in flowing red robes with a hood that completely hid his face. In one hand, the figure held a human skull, who's eyes glwoed with some strange power. "That's it ya red robed dork. I'm done playing!" Joe reached in his coat and pulled out his Colt 1911. He aimed carefully at the figure's head, but the figure raised the skull and twin beams of energy shot at Joe, knocking him backwards and to the ground. "Your death shall be meaningless fool." chided the red robed figure as it hovered over Joe. "You're about...80 years....too late for that." spat out Joe as he strained to moves his body. The pistol barked once, twice, three times and the hood ripped as lead slugs tore through it, but the beams kept crushing Joe. He moves his aimpoint a bit and fired again. This time shattering the skull. An unseen presense screamed and the robes fell to the ground. And vanished. As did the rest of the room, leaving Joe in that same Black and white girdded room again. But at least the door was here again. Joe moved to it quickly, threw it open and moved out, slamming the door behind him. I'll retcon the next part if you want me to Fuzzy. Joe looked aroudn him and saw a bulter standing there, completely unphased by Joe's presense or appearence. "Sir, if you'll please follow me, I'll take you to the others in the planning room." Joe wasn't sure what to make of it, but wandering these halls on his own before had already proved fruitless, so he closed up his trenchcoat to hide his wounds and followed.the butler. The butler took him to anotehr door, and Joe went ahead and opened it up. Inside were a few people atleast he had recognised as the CAoL, so he stepped inside. "Heya. Good ta see ya all again. I got told ya might need a bit of help, so were would ya like me?" called out Joe, flashing a very fangy smile. ================================= Date: Fri, 15 Oct 1999 01:14:01 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Fri, 15 Oct 1999 01:54:04 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007728 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 18:44:40 GMT >Tech Tonic Said As CAoL Message # 00007707 > >> "Thank you, Nemisis..." Seth replies. >> He strolls around the room, his pace suddenly perfectly natural >>and human. Glancing at terminal three, Seth smiles, "Not my forte." >>He moves to terminal one, "Already pretty full." He then turns to >>terminal two, reaching out and scrolling through the past >>discussion. He nods, "This looks more promising." > >OneEye appraises Seth with his one good eye as it flashes a deep >blue. The merchant staggers slightly, then grins. "Quite an effect >friend. With power like yers, we'd be glad to have ya! "Thank you, OneEye," Seth replied, "Now, how to best assist... I think I would serve best once we are ready to actively garner 'The Game of If'. A figure who persists in existing unchanged in whatever world they try to form should be able to move against them while they battle for control of the controls with Nemo and Ziatrice. If I understand the plan correctly." Seth hmms slightly and walks back over to table one, scrolling through the discussion regarding the 'Ansible Guild'. The faintest flicker of a frown graces his features. "Assuming I understand the functioning of the artifact held by this Ansible Guild, and I readily agree I may not, there is a problem with colocating the artifacts by using the rod, including using the rod to 'duplicate' itself in such a fashion. When the parts are merged, Fuzzy is expected to be reformed. If the artifacts are destroyed, you have garnered the net result of having stolen them. Or at least, broken into their temples and destroyed them. "If they somehow 'form' Fuzzy from themselves, like the man of dust given the breath of life, you have then ripped him asunder, as his parts are scattered through nine universes at the same time as Fuzzy is formed here. Unless we are certain they do not themselves go into the making of this man and can survive the process, we would be best served to gather the artifacts themselves and return them, should they survive the making, to their current owners. "And, assuming they do survive unharmed, if we colocate them, we give ourselves away, and invite them to halt our activities. The Guardians of If were, in fact, formed to prevent just such a possibility as all will recall from Failsafe's introduction to the relic. Fuzzy having been the cause of the 'Darkness'." Seth smiled, "Please correct my conclusions or premises freely. To my mind, logic and science, on this scale especially, are new subjects. And I have taken in a large amount of information in a very short time." ================================= Date: Fri, 15 Oct 1999 01:14:17 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room, Group Two On Fri, 15 Oct 1999 02:21:33 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007730 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 21:26:57 -0400 >Zia Said As CAoL Message # 00007725 > >She makes her introduction to Seth, apparently just wanting to find >out his name. She will not shake his hand, but bow instead, even if >offered same. Although she is just 'terribly' polite about it. After >she (I assume ) survives that encounter, she'll return to >'all-business' attitude. Seth (like his author ;)) smiles with a bit of puzzlement, but simply returns the bow. "Hello, Ziatrice, I'm Seth." >"Well, I hope I didn't unduly delay things." She notes to Nemo, "I >seem to have needed a bit of solid rest, to get back into shipshape, >so to speak." > >Ziactrice >-Yes, she really is modeled after one of the 'real' characters from >Zelzany's books, but significantly changed. Can you guess which one? -- Seth I'm thinking Llianna or something, the tall sister of Vialle (Random's wife), with green hair who lived in the castle under the sea introduced in the very first Amber novel. Outside of that set of books, though, I haven't read any of his work. ================================= Date: Fri, 15 Oct 1999 04:52:41 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On 10-15-1999 at 04:50:16 Nemisis Said As CAoL Message # 00007731 >On Fri, 15 Oct 1999 01:54:04 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007728 > > "Thank you, OneEye," Seth replied, "Now, how to best assist... I >think I would serve best once we are ready to actively garner 'The >Game of If'. A figure who persists in existing unchanged in whatever >world they try to form should be able to move against them while they >battle for control of the controls with Nemo and Ziatrice. If I >understand the plan correctly." "The fewer members subject to direct Paradox Attacks the Better..." >option, please ignore it. Seth wouldn't mention it if it had already >come up, but I'm a bit foggy on some of the points of IC and OOC >knowledge at the moment.> > "If they somehow 'form' Fuzzy from themselves, like the man of >dust given the breath of life, you have then ripped him asunder, as >his parts are scattered through nine universes at the same time as >Fuzzy is formed here. Unless we are certain they do not themselves go >into the making of this man and can survive the process, we would be >best served to gather the artifacts themselves and return them, >should they survive the making, to their current owners. "That is a Possibility that had not been considered, and Not a pleasant one to find out about the hard way..." > "And, assuming they do survive unharmed, if we colocate them, we >give ourselves away, and invite them to halt our activities. The >Guardians of If were, in fact, formed to prevent just such a >possibility as all will recall from Failsafe's introduction to the >relic. Fuzzy having been the cause of the 'Darkness'." > > Seth smiled, "Please correct my conclusions or premises freely. >To my mind, logic and science, on this scale especially, are new >subjects. And I have taken in a large amount of information in a very >short time." "I don't believe they Equate Lord Fuzzy with the Darkness, After all the Legends of Lord Fuzzy say that, He Stood Alone Against the Darkness, and In falling he bought the Chance to defeat It. However, I could be wrong, They do seem to have an unusually Detailed Idea of, What to do to Survive a repeat, Without Expecting someone to take Lord Fuzzy's part..." ================================= Date: Fri, 15 Oct 1999 06:35:07 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: The Planning Room, Group Two On Fri, 15 Oct 1999 13:25:46 GMT Tech Tonic Said As CAoL Message # 00007733 >"Well, I hope I didn't unduly delay things." She notes to Nemo, "I >seem to have needed a bit of solid rest, to get back into shipshape, >so to speak." OneEye nods in greeting to Ziatrice, then slides a amulet that looks like a grey hair locked in amber across the table to her. "You might want this, at least for this mission. It makes it so that wherever you enter a time line, the universe accepts this as if you'd always been there, so no paradox. Technically, it should allow you to change into another timeline if ti's switched, but i haven't tried that yet." He also hands out copies of the amulet to everyone else, or at least those who accept. ================================= Date: Fri, 15 Oct 1999 23:04:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI: Departure On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 01:42:13 -0400 Caprice Said As CAoL Message # 00007739 [OOC: As I am going away IRL I decided to work out things in advance... work them into the storyline as you see fit... just don't expect any replies back from me until after Halloween.] Legion and Dr. Essex left the planning room together, heading for the spacecraft awaiting them. It took a little while to familiarize themselves with the controls of the spacecraft. Transporting things from the Tesseract that they might need and getting settled in took a little bit longer... due to some delays. "Mischief! Get out of there!" "-What- do you think you are doing shedding on those, Young Lady?" "That is NOT a cat toy, Mischief!" Take off was smooth, as was the translation over to the reality wear the Gauge was located. The three of them settled into a daily routine as Legion's adaptation slowly set in... Dr. Essex gallantly sleeping on the fold-out couch allowing Legion the bedroom. The first transmission to the CAoL was routine... the second brought some news. "This is Dr. Essex transmitting by burst transmission... we are not -that- far off the main starlanes, so I am keeping contact to a minimum. Legion's adaptation is proceeding apace... we were luckier than we suspected in some ways. She does have a living counterpart here, who is a member of the guild... and fairly close to some personas she has absorbed before... Legion should complete the mental transformation within 24 hours. The physical metamorphasis will take an estimated two additional days. "Her alternate here is not just a guild member, but the Minister of Devices. One of the highest ranking guild members, and a member of the ruling council. Minister Victoria D'Angelo is in charge of granting and restricting access to the Gauge. She also has a second, secret duty. "Guardian of the storehouse where alternate devices to the anasibles are kept. Breakthroughs -have- been made before. Perhaps not as elegant as the ones we planned, but we have a distinct advantage. These devices are kept hidden away, incase something ever happens to destroy the Gauge or the anasible system. The Guild is determained to maintain its authority. "To do this she works with the Minister of Corrections... a rather Orwellian title. The Ministry has discredited scientists in the past who have tred on the Guild's toes... and possibly killed some. They are also in charge of the guild's propaganda machine. I am ending this recording to return to Legion's side. "Dr. Essex, out." ------------- It is four days later when the next transmission arrives. "This is Dr. Essex. We have selected our targets and are begining infiltration.... this will be our last communique until we are in place and ready to act. If you review our last transmission, I am sure you can deduce our targets. Dr. Essex, out." ================================= Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999 10:04:44 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 09:59:36 -0700 (PDT) Rob N Said As CAoL Message # 00007740 >On Fri, 15 Oct 1999 01:54:04 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007728 > > Seth hmms slightly and walks back over to table one, scrolling >through the discussion regarding the 'Ansible Guild'. The faintest >flicker of a frown graces his features. > "If (the artifacts) somehow 'form' Fuzzy from themselves, like >the man of dust given the breath of life, you have then ripped him >asunder, as his parts are scattered through nine universes at the >same time as Fuzzy is formed here. Unless we are certain they do not >themselves go into the making of this man and can survive the >process, we would be best served to gather the artifacts themselves >and return them, should they survive the making, to their current >owners." Rob's face blanks for a moment. Then he turns to a section of wall, activates several windows, and begins writing up an equation on each one. [Stupid, stupid, stupid! Didn't even think about running the numbers, did I?] After a few minutes of work, he sets the computer to number-crunching. When the results come up, he doesn't look happy. "Forget co-locating the artifacts. It's possible that trying to re-combine them into Fuzzy could result in an explosion which, depending on which theory you subscribe to, ranges from 'nuclear device' to 'big bang.'" ================================= Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999 10:34:48 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 10:19:27 -0700 (PDT) The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007741 >On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:56:30 -0700 >Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007698 > >>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 09:48:37 -0500 (CDT) >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007677 >> >> "Hello," the blonde man says, holding the matchbood casually, >>but allowing the cover to show, as if it were a letter of >>introduction that he wasn't sure he'd need, "My name's Seth. I'd >>like to help you on your quest, if I may be allowed." > > /"Somehow,"/ Roland says slowly, /"I don't think that will be a >problem."/ Raver tipped her head slightly, giving Seth a thorough once-over. [First that...angel...and now this.] She shrugged a bit and settled back against the window frame she was currently using as a perch. /"Fine with me."/ On the other side of the bond, Mandy paused, looking up from where she was in a Danger Room programmed as a firing exercise. A quick request later, she was seeing Seth through Raver's eyes, complete with golden aura. [That.] [Yes.] [Ve-ery nice,] Mandy grinned, as she perched on the edge of a roof, taking careful aim with a plasma rifle borrowed from the armory. [Just wish I could take this... can't, though -- too heavy what with the Galil already.] [Very nice, but what do you think of him?] [I said, very nice...hang on a tick.] She pulled the trigger, and down below, the vampire's head disappeared. [That aura... *whistle* Yup. I vote for letting him in.] /"Mandy concurs with the decision,"/ Raver commented to Roland. ================================= Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999 14:09:04 -0700 Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 15:12:29 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007742 >On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 10:19:27 -0700 (PDT) >The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007741 > >>On Thu, 14 Oct 1999 00:56:30 -0700 >>Morgan and/or Roland Said As CAoL Message # 00007698 >> >>>On Wed, 13 Oct 1999 09:48:37 -0500 (CDT) >>>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007677 >>> >>> "Hello," the blonde man says, holding the matchbood casually, >>>but allowing the cover to show, as if it were a letter of >>>introduction that he wasn't sure he'd need, "My name's Seth. I'd >>>like to help you on your quest, if I may be allowed." >> >> /"Somehow,"/ Roland says slowly, /"I don't think that will be a >>problem."/ > > Raver tipped her head slightly, giving Seth a thorough >once-over. > [First that...angel...and now this.] She shrugged a bit and settled ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ > >back against the window frame she was currently using as a perch. >/"Fine with me."/ "Thank you," Seth replied, looking first surprised, then relieved. > On the other side of the bond, Mandy paused, looking up from >where she was in a Danger Room programmed as a firing exercise. A >quick request later, she was seeing Seth through Raver's eyes, >complete with golden aura. [That.] > [Yes.] > [Ve-ery nice,] Mandy grinned, as she perched on the edge of a >roof, taking careful aim with a plasma rifle borrowed from the >armory. [Just wish I could take this... can't, though -- too heavy >what with the Galil already.] > [Very nice, but what do you think of him?] > [I said, very nice...hang on a tick.] She pulled the trigger, and > down below, the vampire's head disappeared. [That aura... *whistle* >Yup. I vote for letting him in.] > > /"Mandy concurs with the decision,"/ Raver commented to Roland. Seth smiled toward Raver, "Again, thank you." ================================= Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999 15:05:36 -0700 (PDT) Subject: OOC: Re: AAE VI: The Search For Fuzzy (Long!)(Sorrry!) On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 16:43:46 -0400 Dhyrclhanc Said As CAoL Message # 00007743 >On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 00:55:37 -0700 >Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007736 > >>"Dhyrclhanc" wrote: >> >>"But enough about me. What about you? What do you think of me?" > > Glad you liked it! It seemed like a particularly Dhyrclahnc-like thing to say. Oh, BTW, I meant to include the fact that both "Dhyrchlancai" are currently both each wearing a caligraphic button which reads: "Have you hugged your dragon today?" ================================= Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999 18:12:55 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 17:56:36 -0700 (PDT) The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007745 >On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 15:12:29 -0500 (CDT) >Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007742 > >>On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 10:19:27 -0700 (PDT) >>The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007741 >> >> Raver tipped her head slightly, giving Seth a thorough >>once-over. [First that...angel...and now this.] She shrugged a bit > ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ >> >> /"Mandy concurs with the decision,"/ Raver commented to Roland. > > Seth smiled toward Raver, "Again, thank you." A muscle jumped briefly in Raver's jaw, and she quirked an eyebrow. "Do not thank me. Even if I objected to your...presence..., I would still be overruled by the majority. Including my mindmate." "And that would be me," Mandy commented, wandering in and nodding at Seth. She shifted the Galil from its shoulder harness into the back scabbard, exposing a Battle Angel Alita motif on her shirt. "You must be Seth Hope. I'm Mandy. Nice to meet you." ================================= Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999 23:05:29 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Sun, 17 Oct 1999 00:48:07 -0500 (CDT) Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007746 >On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 17:56:36 -0700 (PDT) >The Lone One Said As CAoL Message # 00007745 > >>On Sat, 16 Oct 1999 15:12:29 -0500 (CDT) >>Mike Knight Said As CAoL Message # 00007742 >> >> Seth smiled toward Raver, "Again, thank you." > > A muscle jumped briefly in Raver's jaw, and she quirked an >eyebrow. "Do not thank me. Even if I objected to your...presence..., >I would still be overruled by the majority. Including my mindmate." "Then my thanks are to the group at large," Seth replies, turning to the rest of the room, as his appreciation seems to disturb Raver, but glancing back to Mandy's mindmate as he adds, "I feared things might have gone less well. I am grateful to be shown wrong." > "And that would be me," Mandy commented, wandering in and >nodding at Seth. She shifted the Galil from its shoulder harness into >the back scabbard, exposing a Battle Angel Alita motif on her shirt. >"You must be Seth Hope. I'm Mandy. Nice to meet you." Seth smiles to woman in the Battle Angel shirt, "A pleasure, Mandy, I am Seth.... Hope. Yes, I think that will do nicely. As that is what drew me here, it sounds a suitable surname." ================================= Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999 23:35:01 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: AAE VI: Newcomer (Part Two) On Sun, 17 Oct 1999 02:31:14 EDT Scott Osborne Said As CAoL Message # 00007747 >In a message dated 10/16/99 11:05:39 PM Pacific Daylight Time, >mjknight writes: > > Seth smiles to woman in the Battle Angel shirt, "A pleasure, >Mandy, I am Seth.... Hope. Yes, I think that will do nicely. As that >is what drew me here, it sounds a suitable surname." "Hope..." Scott quotes some obscure source. "Hope is all we have." "Sorry. I'm Scott Osborne. Please, call me Scott." Scott does not offer his hand, but instead bows slightly. If Seth can sense darkness, it looms around Scott; Osborne himself shows neither a particular good side, nor an evil one. In fact, he has no distinct aura, beyond the shadows looming over him. (Depending on how sensitive Seth is, he might sense that the shadow is not really Scott's; depending on how perceptive Seth is, he might also sense that Scott notices the shadow, and is doing his best to ignore it.) ================================= Date: Sun, 17 Oct 1999 05:35:14 -0700 (PDT) Subject: AAE VI Interlude On Sun, 17 Oct 1999 13:19:26 -0700 Stranger Said As CAoL Message # 00007749 Stranger left the Planning Room and headed for the armoury. It took a little negotiation, but eventually he got what he wanted. First on the list was a biosuit. The attendants wanted to give him a force field life support unit, but eventually they compromised on a biosuit with force field life support built in. That should do. Next was extra firepower. They were able to replace the ammunition he'd expended recently and then provide some extra weapons in the form of a Daewoo USAS-12 fully auto shotgun and a Walther 2000 sniper rifle. They had re-engineered the shotgun with high tech materials to eliminate the reliability problems inherent in fully automatic shotguns. Leaving the armoury he chose an unoccupied suite and entered, locking the door after him. He dumped the hardware on the bed with his hat and coat. [Big room] he thought [at least the quarters are good in the army of light] He removed his shouldr harness and shirt and headed into the bathroom. Standing in front of the full length mirror he examined himself. He was not that badly scarred at the moment, it hadn't been long since he'd last died. His body was only marred by an angry white line running across the top of his belly, just under his ribs. He ran his finger along it. [We'll be collecting a few more of these before we find fuzzy, I've no doubt] Shaking his head he started to run the bath and returned to the main room. [So it looks like we've got a team coming together] He unlaced his boots and stripped off his socks. [Don't know about this Hunter guy, Roland says he'd OK and he seems fast, but I'd like to see him in combat . Still I'm sure he thinks the same of you] He checked his swords, taking a few swipes at thin air before returning them to their scabbards and dropping the belt on the bed. [Mandy and Raver. Hmmm, they fought well enough in the past. Raver, well yes, but Mandy's only human. Still she has spirit and that counts for a lot.] He stripped off the rest of his clothes and ankle holsters and headed for the wardrobe, naked now except for the lens on his wrist. [Rio looks like trouble, she seems to have made 'friends' with Roger very quickly. Not at all sure about her. That sort of thing is bad news. Maybe I'm just jealous? Ha, no, I don't think so. Not my type. Who is your type? No, don't go there.] He briefly instructed the wardrobe to clean his clothes, if it could and produce three new sets, with black shirts instead of blue. The dialogue in his head was starting to displease him, so he moved on. [Roger. What about Roger. A lot like his father, powerful, passionate, impulsive. Yeah well, immortality does that to you. Should be an asset] The bath had finished running and Stranger immersed himself. [Major West? I know nothing about and it looks like he's going to be leader. Hmmm. We've got a lot of warriors, we need a diplomat. Let's hope West is both.] Stranger speant a long time in the bath, cleaning himself thoroughly, scrubbing hard at some of the more stubborn bits of grime acquired on the road. When he got out he brushed his teeth and shaved. He got a scissors and stared at himself in the mirror for a long time. His hair was almost down to his shoulders, he looked like a cavaliar. Not his usual cut at all. But a strange feeling went through him when he saw it. Something different. He carefully trimmed it, tidying it up, but not shortenig it. Heading into the other room he carefully dressed, biosuit under everything, black combat trousers concealing ankle holsters, black shirt, combat boots, sword belt, shoulder rig, coat and finally hat. He transferred the contents of his pockets from his old clothes to his new, before packing the remaining clothes along with the changeling net, rifle and shotgun into a duffel bag, which he left on the end of his bed where it could be found easily should he send for it. He grinned ferally and headed back to the Planning Room. He was clean. He was ready. He was going out to find his friend. =================================