Vanguard Roll Call!

Vanguard Roll Call!

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Vanguard: Issue 102: Something Wicked This Way Comes!


Vanguard Vault, New York City, before dawn

The city was dark. Powerless. But the same could not be said for Vanguard, earth’s greatest heroes!

Avatar, Clone, Sentinel and Symbiote squared off at last against Siberian, Cosmonaut and Shatter in the tight, dark stairwell between the 83rd and 84th floor of the Empire State Building!
Vanguard now knew that Clone and Siberian had switched places, against Siberian’s will! But why?
“Kill that traitor,” commanded the real Siberian in Russian, pointing at the real Clone! Cosmonaut and Shatter were happy to obey!

Avatar beat them to the punch! The manifestation of Mythology among Men drew back on a bow made of solar energy and fired an arrow of light into the chest of the leader of the Soviet Super Soldiers! ZAM! Siberian was staggered!

Siberian roared as ice formed around his battered body, protecting it. The indignities visited upon him by his traitorous former comrade were too much! “Alexander Oleksienko,” he spat in Russian, “You have forfeited your life. And the lives of your family.”
ZARSSHHH!!! Ice projected from the hands of the cruel cryogenic Cossack into Clone! (11 points of damage! 5 from Power. 6 from Hits!) The Human Collective, was barely conscious and encased in ice!!

Clone concentrated and divided into two bodies (his new maximum)! SKASSHH! The division blew his icy prison into shards! The first Clone pulled the injured Manetti up the darkened stairwell to the relative safety of the hangar, and then headed back down! The second readied for battle!

Symbiote had had enough. He leapt at Cosmonaut!

Cosmonaut crowed at Symbiote: “American, your so-called technology is powerless before the superiority of soviet science! I will bury you.” A beam weapon fired from his gauntlet and hit the myrmidon of mimicry! ZARK! (16 points of damage! 8 from Invulnerability, the rest of Power).

Symbiote was apparently unaffected by Cosmonaut’s energy blast! The Soviet was stunned.
Hal used his simulated super strength to lift Cosmonaut up with one arm. The other arm threw a roundhouse punch! KA-WHAM! Symbiote connected hard and Cosmonaut went sailing through walls before landing in Vanguard’s Gymnasium! (see map, 83rd floor) KRASH!
The Soviet super scientist was unconscious!

Sentinel, facing an opponent that couldn’t be touched, spoke to him. "Really? You follow this man (pointing towards Siberian)? His undisciplined arrogance caused his defeat in the prior battle. He is unable to maintain the loyalty of his team as is evident from his current predicament. And his action here questions whether he can even comprehend the scientific world altering event about to occur nearby. Meanwhile, you emerge from the battle unscathed. Obviously you are more powerful than he ... that was your power that utterly obliterated our craft, wasn't it?”

Shatter nodded unconsciously as he observed the beacon of liberty.

Sentinel continued, “Surely if his ineptness led to his capture on US soil there would be someone better qualified, someone more worthy to assume leadership of the Soviet Super Soldiers upon returning home.”

Shatter seemed to consider this even as his leader battled for his life! (holds action)

Sentinel dared not attack anyone for fear of pulling Shatter back into the fray! (Let me know if you want to evade. It will cost you at least one power point to take any action. Thanks!)
Avatar, however, had no such concerns! The demigod of destiny fired another solar arrow into Siberian! ZAM! The sunlight shaft damaged the ice armor but not the man inside!

Symbiote turned from the man-shaped hole Cosmonaut had formed in the wall. He charged Siberian, who had threatened to discover the secret of Symbiote’s powers by any means possible. KRA-POW! The duplicating defender hit the frozen fiend hard! SKASSSHHHH!!! His ice armor shattered! There was little protection left! (and Siberian had no movement left with which to form more!)

Siberian saw Symbiote as the primary threat now. SWOOSSHHHHH! An icy blast hit the scientific superpower simulator! (19 points! Invulnerability is gone. Roll with 8, 11 from Hits!)
Siberian readied to attack Avatar next.

Clone leapt at Siberian with both of his bodies in an unexpected fury of fists!! POW! WHAM! The unarmored Siberian fell backwards and toppled down the stairs! CRASH! SMASH! He lay in a heap on the landing, unconscious!

Shatter phased intangibly into the floor and disappeared without a word. Siberian and Cosmonaut were unconscious and Shatter was AWOL.

Sentinel telepathically checked on Nemesis’ position and noted it had not changed. The other team wasn’t moving!

(OOC: Actions?! Questions for Clone?)

Meanwhile…
Lightning Strike, Slingshot, Soldier, Talon, Shelley and Mother Russia and Polar Bear were on the way to the Electronics Lab but stopped on the 85th floor (in and around Room Q on the SE side)

Silas Caine said, “If our world is going to live, then Nemesis must be destroyed.”
The man who might have been behind the death of Nanite and the death of Lightning Strike’s wife calmly faced off against Vanguard in their dark, unpowered headquarters!

Nemesis lay lifeless in the arms of Slingshot, still transmitting the Silent Signal. Mother Russia looked from the capitalist to ‘the Nemesis weapon’ to Vanguard. So did Shelly Harper.

Caine said, “Sacrifices must be made for the sake of the human race… you remember them. I’m asking you to help me save the world. You are “superheroes” after all. That IS what you do, right?”

Slingshot “absorbed” Nemesis’ prostrate form into his ebony elastic epidermis. The big man then moved to leave, watching Caine’s reaction for any hint of fear or sincerity.

Mother Russia said to Vanguard, “You know this man?”

Talon was unable to control his animalistic urges! He stepped toward Caine and growled, "It takes a lot of nerve for you to come into our home without invitation, and then insult us before explaining that we should kill the man we just travelled half a world away to rescue! What evidence can you provide that proves your statement is true?" The bestial birdman moved in close to Caine in a threatening manner. Then he seemed to hesitate and regain his composure.

“Savage,” said Caine coolly to Talon. “The evidence is all around you. This darkened city. The power nexus building here. Nemesis discovered now. Open your eyes before it’s too late.”

Lightning Strike echoed Talon’s questions: "What proof do you offer for your accusations? The scribblings of a madman.”

Caine clearly wanted to reply to that but didn’t, perhaps out of concern that it could incriminate him.

Strike said, “You yourself have profited from the very things you say are going to destroy our world.”

Caine smiled, “I confess. I am not a Communist, Mr. Strike. If there is a profit to be made from knowledge, is there harm in profiting? What system do you think you uphold as an agent of the US?”

Lightning Strike said, “Nemesis served this world bravely and prevented its destruction."

“Then surely, he would not hesitate to save it again, even if it meant sacrificing himself to do it,” Caine said evenly.

Strike continued his questioning. "How did you manage to enter Vanguard Headquarters?”

Caine answered, “The power loss made it easy. My personal helicopter is in an open hangar on the western side of the building. I came to help.” (That hangar is area H-1 on the map.)

Strike said, “What makes you so altruistic now? You have never shown much interest in saving humanity before. Controlling us maybe, but never saving us."

“Unlike your new friends,” Caine said, indicating the Soviet heroes, “I am an unabashed capitalist. I need markets and consumers. The end of the world could put a crimp in those plans.”
Strike demanded that he reveal the source of this energy drain. "Before we can even look at Nanite and Nemesis, we need to stop this electrical drain. Give me more details of our current situation and we can decide if your story is plausible."

“The drain was traced to this building. Your headquarters. That’s why I came. Beyond that, I have no information. I had thought that you would know better than anyone,” Caine said to Lightning Strike.

CHESS Agent Shelley Harper still held the signal scanner that Slingshot had built. She quietly moved it behind her back so Caine wouldn’t see it.

Soldier couldn’t arouse the unconscious CHESS Rook. He needed to get to the infirmary. The patriotic powerhouse demanded of Caine: "What happened to the Rook? And what are you rambling on about?"

Caine answered the star spangled superhero: “I found him stunned but alive.
And what I’m discussing is an invasion of our world, through cyberspace for lack of a better term. An invasion that mankind will not likely survive, given its complete dependence upon computers. An invasion that was foreseen, and yet those warnings went unheeded.” Caine’s charismatic cool was cracking.
“For god’s sake man,” he said to Soldier, “you must stop this.” Caine’s eyes were on Slingshot, or perhaps on Nemesis inside him.
Mother Russia and Polar Bear murmured to each other in Russian.

Slingshot’s gambit paid off. The pliable powerhouse saw clear desperation in Caine. Slingshot stopped walking. “These are androids. Robots. They can be rebuilt. How can you destroy them in such as way that will avoid this thing from coming?

Caine said, “To be safe, wipe their memory banks and dismantle them completely. Disintegrate them.”

OOC: Replies?!? Actions?
Replies are due in a little over a week, by end of day Tuesday December 8th.
Thanks!

Best,
Jeff


Current Locations: (see map!)
Avatar, Sentinel, Symbiote, Manetti and Clone were on the way to the infirmary and are currently in and around the NE stairwell between floors 84 and 83. Sentinel can still sense where Nemesis is located. (His telepathic range is 750 feet)

Forester is searching the rest of the base. Exact location unknown. He was last seen headed toward the hangar that Silas Caine mentioned!

Lightning Strike, Slingshot, Soldier, Talon, Shelley, Mother Russia and Polar Bear were on the way to the Electronics Lab and are currently in Room Q on the SE side of the 85th floor. Silas Caine is with them and Slingshot has stewardship of the motionless Nemesis.


Current Conditions:

Avatar: Hit Points: 40, Power Points: 37, Manifestation: Apollo: Light Powers

Forester: Hit Points: 23, Power Points: 68, Arrows Used: Parachute, Scentx2, Sonic, Acid, Flare, Impact

Lightning Strike: Hit Points: 25, Power Points: 73

Sentinel: Hit Points: 18, Power Points: 39, Creation Points: 78, Shields: 78%

Slingshot: Hit Points: 36, Power Points: 88, Invulnerability: 8

Soldier: Hit Points: 39, Power Points: 73, Invulnerability: 8
Symbiote: Hit Points: 59, Power Points: 80, Charges: 10, Copied Russia: S:60 E:22 A:18 I:25 C:13 Invul:0

Talon: Hit Points: 28, Power Points: 75

Clone: Total Bodies: 2. Hit Points: 1, Power Points: 40, Total Hit Point Pool: 2

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Symbiote:
Determined to set a new speed record if I can...

IC: Once Siberian falls, Symbiote immediately whirls and faces Clone with an aggressive stance, fists at the ready. "Alright Clone, friend or foe?" Hal barks at the Copying Collectivist. "Be careful how you answer--I think we all want to give you the benefit of the doubt, given the way you helped us in the tunnels under Big City. But right now I think you need to give us an exact run down of how you survived that incident, what you're doing hanging out with the Keystone Communists here and what you know about this entire situation with Nemesis and Nanite. And either make it the truth or head for the stairs and the Russian embassy like we suggested before, I've had all I'm going to take of people attacking us under a flag of truce today," Hal says, cracking his knuckles.

Assuming Clone agrees to talk, Hal turns to his teammates. "Guys, I still recommend we get Manetti to the infirmary." He gestures towards Siberian and Cosmonauts unconscious forms. "These two also, and give them a nice, stiff sedative that will hopefully keep them out of trouble until we straighten this whole mess out." He then turns back to Clone. "OK, we're all ears."

If everybody follows he'll pick up Cosmonaut's body and carry him to the infirmary, listening to Clone as they go. Once there he'll give the Soviet a sleeping agent and peel off the armor, doing a quick evaluation of the technology as he does so. Once everybody's cared for and tucked in he recommends we radio the other team, see what's up with them.

Viva Vanguard and Happy Post-Thanksgiving Turkey Coma Recovery to all,

Greg

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Avatar:
I'm in agreement. I'll assist with Siberian and let Symbiote administer a sedative. By the time we get there, is the Apollo manifestation still active or not? If not, it soon will be, I suppose. Avatar will then prepare to make his way to wherever the other team happens to be when we make contact. In the admittedly small time between, he'll try and rest a little. Power is low and I'm not wanting to manifest anything again (or even fight) until it's recovered a little but I guess we can't always choose these things...

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GM:
Avatar, fyi: Duration of the manifestation is Charisma minutes (19 minutes. You have ~17 minutes remaining at the end of Issue 102)

Best,
Jeff

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Talon:
Hello All,
IC: Talon sneers at Caine and then turns toward Slingshot, " I don't need to be here. One more comment from this arrogant jerk and I'll do something that I might regret later.". "I'm gonna take the injured Rook down to the infirmary to try and get him some medical attention.".

Talon gently lifts the Rook and leaves the room. He will find Manetti and ask him to come with him if he's capable of walking on his own. If he can't, he will tell him to stay put and he will come back for him in a moment.

He will carry the Rook in the direction that he saw the rest of the Vanguard travel. If or when he meets up with Symbiote, Sentinel, and Avatar he will tell them that "There is a situation that needs their attention on the 85th floor." and then go about the task of getting the injured some needed assistance.

OOC: I know that the short time I spent in the Vanguard Vault limits my knowledge of the floorplan, so I will use my natural senses to listen for the sounds of my companions talking or moving around to help guide me to them and the infirmary. When he is done with that task, he will move back to the area where Siberian and Cosmonaut were thumped (assuming I found it), and keep watch over them until the situation is resolved.

Viva Vanguard,

Denny

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Sentinel:
Hi all.
Jeff, before posting. With Kirk's tete-a-tete with Shatter he should have gotten a 'good' energy read on him. Given his out-of-sync-ness and the little bit we do know about his origin, did Kirk pick up any signs of either the unearthly cave energy or the same energy that we have been following and emanates from Nanite and Nemesis?

... just trying to see if he ties into things more than we thought previously before my post and it didn't occur to me until this issue.

Thanks.

Seth

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Slingshot:
Private to GM:
Ok. I'm spending a luck point to get a hint from the GM. This is my character trying to think of a good way to save Nanite from this conundrum. He's a little obsessed with her and wants his cake and eat it too.

He doesn't care overly much about Nemesis.. although, he hasn't met the revived Nanite which is bothering him as he doesn't know what he'll find there.. so that encounter might change his decision.

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GM:
Sentinel, No he doesn't.
He (it?) reads like to a sentient, self-contained magnetic field.
Ooh. I just gave myself goosebumps.

Private to Slingshot:
Cool. Nice use.
Right now Slingy's lacking info, as you said.
Once more info is received, I'll get you something.

Thanks,
Jeff

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Clone:
OOC: Ok . . . lol . . . Clone just had Siberian ‘lump up’ on him, he’s become a traitor to his country, had his family marked for death by the leader of the supergroup that he has just betrayed, and now he feels that Symbiote . . . the one friend that he thought he had . . . just ‘climbed up’ in his face. Needless to say – Clone is not having a good day lol.
IC: As Clone tries to absorb all of this, he just stands there for a second in silence disbelief trying to make sense of it all. The moment then passes as he quickly pulls Siberians mask off his head and his once emotionally stunned look turns to one of anger and frustration. He then points at Hal ( with the Siberian mask still in his hand ) and barks back at him, “Ya ne panimayu tebia!” He then shakes his head a bit as he realizes he just spoke in Russian – frustrated and angry he continues, “I do not understand why you are so much angry! I am now traitor to Russian peoples and my family is now to die! I fight my comrades, come to helping you, and you now look upon me as enemy! I am thinking now that all Americans are crazy!” He then throws his hands in the air in frustration and lets out a shout “AArrrr!” Lowering his hands he then turns his back to Hal and slowly takes a few steps away from him. As he bows his head a bit he slowly puts his hands over his face and takes a few moments to calm down. With his back still towards him, he turns his head a bit and says to Hal, “I am sorry comrade . . . sometimes my blood goes on fire and I can not control it good.” With a sigh he calmly turns to Symbiote and continues, “I will answer all questions you have. The Clone you were knowing was a copy of me. We made split two years from now in hopes of making a defect to the U.S. and A. He must have made a way here to you, and for that I am grateful. I stayed in Russia in Moscow Military District so that my government would not make notice that I had want to left. Would that my government know that I had leave they would surely have killed my family. So as you are seeing comrade . . . I am not Clone you were knowing. As for this Nemesis and Nanite, I am not knowing of them. We were order to Antarctica to stop an American team from exploiting valuable resources there, and to investigate a source of strange electronic signal. The rest of story you are knowing. Am I enemy . . . nyet. Pozhaluista . . . you have asked for truce and I have been telling you truce.” An awkward look of epiphany then washes over his face as he continues, “Perhaps you are knowing Russian epic of Cinderella . . . if shoe fits . . . wear it.” With his eyes wide open; he then nods his head knowingly and flashes Hal a look as if he had just passed on a bit of prophetic wisdom to him. A moment later Clone’s face takes a more serious expression as he stretches his arms out to his sides and starts to bare his soul to Symbiote. A gesture of sincerity that he hopes Hal will understand and finally see that he is no threat to him, Vanguard or the United States.
“My name is Alexander Oleksienko, I am man from poor family of farmers in Ukraine. My family are good people and my parents have much love for me. My government took me from them many years from now and I miss them and fear for them very much. I am fearing that my love for American freedom will kill my family. I am having two girlfriends, I am love vodka, and my hobby is the ping-pong and disco dance. I am here now with you in U.S. and A. not as enemy, but as friend . . . and I am defect.” He then pauses again, sighs a sigh of great relief and smiles a large grin before giving Hal a big ‘man hug’.
“We go now to infirmary . . . da? Da!” He smiles again, pats Hal on both shoulders, and then turns and walks towards the door. As he walks by Siberian he gives him a quick little kick and continues on his way to the infirmary, confidant that he has not only won the argument, but that he has reinforced his friendship with his new friends - Vanguard.
OOC: Clone is a hot headed Russian with a really big heart – what can I say? lol
Hope that wasn't too confusing and I hope you guys got as big a kick out of reading it as I did writing it lol.
Talk to you all soon,
-Kev

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Symbiote:
OOC: Heh...that was great. Anybody remember the old "All in the Family" TV show? There was a wonderful episode where Archie and Mike actually come to a sort of understanding and Mike, always the more emotional by far, actually lunges in and gives Archie a hung. The look of chagrined horror on Carrol O'Connor's face was a great bit of acting. I see Symbiote as having had the same look on his face.

IC: As the Defecting Duplicator walks towards the infirmary, Symbiote shakes his head in bemusement, pauses for a second and then walks over to pick up Cosmonaut's unconscious form. "Well, it may be partly because I feel like I just kicked a puppy, but I believe him," he says to Sentinel, Avatar and Manetti. "I suppose we'll need to do something about negotiating for the release of his family once this is all over." He stops, looks around the darkened headquarters. "But we're also going to have a much bigger problem, probably much harder to crack." He lifts Cosmonaut over his shoulder. "Clone just told us the Soviets were in Antarctica because of us--because they knew we were coming. And Siberian mentioned that he knew my Harness was the source of my abilities.

"Gentlemen, CHESS has a leak."

With that, Symbiote follows Clone.

Viva Vanguard,
Greg

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Sentinel:
Kirk was glad that his gambit with Shatter had paid off and that his teammates had removed the immediate threat and interference from the Soviet Super Soldiers.

As Kirk regrouped with his teammates he said,
"We need to keep alert since Shatter took off here and is likely pursuing an agenda of his own at this point. I'm not sure he is even a 'he' anymore, his presence if more that of a sentient self-contained magnetic field," and looking at Hal he added, "he was the force that took out craft. How they knew of our coming is another question to be answered ... " and he looked towards Clone.

Kirk wants to hear everything Clone has to say at this point to try to put the pieces of the puzzle together here as well as find out this Clone's relationship with Vanguard's Clone. Kirk is all for Symbiote's plan to be sure that Siberian and Cosmonaut are totally incapacitated and won't cause further problems after. In fact, if they get as far as handling this, Kirk will send a quick secure encoded email to Chess to let them know the situation so that if power is restored and they can 'secure them' all the better.

Along the way, at some point in their discussion, if Symbiote and Avatar are paying close attention they will notice a slight brow of concentration on Kirk's face and it will seem almost like Kirk is looking through them at something not there and he'll say,
"We need to finish this here quickly, the rest of our team is no longer moving and has stopped short of their intended destination."

Kirk will follow his teammates’ lead with Clone and is really looking to get them back with the rest of Vanguard ASAP. If Talon makes it back to them and mentions the presence of Silas Caine, unless he is involved with something imperative he will immediately take off to rejoin the others ... he wants the opportunity to get a 'read' on Caine to determine if he possesses any abilities and once Talon reveals what he said to help to find out what he knows of the situation... the energy read would be immediate, he would lock in to monitor his thoughts assuming the situation hasn't changed drastically from what we have now.

Along the way Kirk will continue to pay close attention to his energy perceptions to hopefully prevent any sneak attacks on himself and his teammates. He will try to preserve power and extend it only as necessary given that he never got to 'rest' from the prior battle and right now his knowledge of things and his ability to 'read' things from his energy perception and his mental abilities seem of more value to the situation than his battle prowess - that being said if things change and he needs to protect his teammates or himself or if the 'real' threat is revealed, he will not hesitate to take direct action as needed.

Enjoy the weekend all.
Seth

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Slingshot:
OOC: Looks like I'll wait until t-minus 3 seconds before posting. I have a series of questions:

Knowing what I know of the facilities at this location, especially with regards to the technical facilities:

Is the best location to do the wipe and destruction of Nemesis is the electronics lab? If not, where? We need to disintegrate him... the only thing I can think of would be to melt him, unless we have some high tech disintegration ray facility. If I'm not sure, I'll ask Shelley. (Incinerator?)

Speaking of Shelley, I'll ask Strike, Soldier and Talon to line up keep an eye on Caine (loudly). I'll go see Shelley and ask her about the facilities (low enough to be over heard a bit). Really low: I'll have a look at the sensor. What does it tell me? Is it pointing at Caine? Nemesis? Somewhere further out and below (like where the electronics lab should be), someone/thing else entirely? I assume I'll work it all out by moving myself around and have Shelley move a few feet as well and see where the pointer leads. I'm not taking the sensor from her.
I'm trying also to keep the sensor knowledge from Caine, which is why I ask the other three to line up and watch him.

I'll wait for the answers for my next move.

sorry.

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GM:

1) Slingshot's engineering expertise, and knowledge of Vanguard Vault, gives him this info. If he wanted to disintegrate/destroy a man sized being, these ways might work:

-There's a vacuum chamber on the 84th floor (V-1 on the map)
-There's a small smelter in the mechanical workshop on the 85th floor (T-2) that would be big enough

-Doc's experimental space shuttle has working propulsion engines. Nemesis could be placed on the 82nd floor blast slab while the engines fired. (SW corner of building)
-Scott assumes the sub-basement of the Empire State Building holds a furnace and incinerator, but hasn't seen them. They may not be big enough or hot enough.

2) Slingshot's sensor, held by Shelley, reveals that the silent signal emanated from Nemesis into the building, interacting with its electronic systems! There was now an identical signal coming from the Computer Lab (82nd floor, C-1).
Slingy knew that was also the vicinity where the entire city's power was being funneled to; the center nexus of a massive power vortex! That nexus could have masked the silent signal from the Computer Lab until now, when they've gotten closer.
Slingy also knew that Nanite had been stored nearby in the Electronics Lab ( 82nd floor, E-1)

3) Slingy believes Caine did not see him checking the scanner.

Best,
Jeff

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Slingshot:
Slingshot is not one to make these kind of decisions. He leaves that to the likes of Sentinel and Symbiote. He was made to save people damnit! He loves saving people! Not destroying them!
..but he can see that Caine is truly fearing this issue.

He looks at Mother Russia and says, "Well it does seem that your moniker was appropriate after all. Nemesis does seem to be a weapon after all. Not from us or you, but from a parallel universe."

"Friends" he says to his fellow vanguardians,"I'm not sure I can do this myself." Scott divests himself of Nemesis and hands him to Soldier (likely the only one able to carry him). "I believe that the best way to deal with this and the closest is to go to the smelter in the mechanical room just a few rooms from here. Fire up the smelter and put him in, then it's just a matter of time. Can I trust you to handle this?" he says looking at the three of them.

He sits down heavily and puts his head in his hands. He reaches out to Shelley motions for fer to sit with him.

OOC: I just want to add as I'm looking at the pictures for this past turn. Jeff got just about the snootiest picture possible for Silas Caine. Just looking at the picture, I hate his guts. Forget what he did..

Private to GM:
Another player goes rogue! Oh Noes!

So here's Slingshot's real move. He's going to sit there with Shelley until he's assured himself that they are proceeding with the smelter thing. He'll sit long enough to ensure that there's no double crossing from the Russians as well. (if he has to, he'll extend an ear to the mechanical room to listen in). I'll explain my plan to Shelley in whispers once we are alone.

It's obvious that Nemesis and Nanite cannot be together. It looks like Nanite is not necessarily emitting the signal either (assuming she's still in the electronics room, but I remember that Doc Rocket said she was moving. This has to be fixed which is why Shelley is with me and I'm going down to the electronic's room.

I'll keep monitoring the computer lab signal with Shelley. Go to the electronics lab, hopefully find Nanite there and talk to her. If she's not there.. then it's off to the computer lab.

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Soldier:
As usual, I'm getting my reply in just under the deadline. Caine answered the star spangled superhero: found him stunned but alive."
Soldier IC: "Mr, I find it hard to believe you had nothing to do with his current situation, or what's going on in this building. I've just met you, but I already feel like I need to take a shower.
Slingshot wrote: "Speaking of Shelley, I'll ask Strike, Soldier and Talon to line up keep an eye on Caine (loudly)."
IC: Already ahead of you.
OOC: Soldier will try to maneuver himself to be within striking distance, of Caine if necessary, he'll also use his sensor systems to scan the area for any anomolies, such as heat changes, out of the ordinary sounds, etc. If Caine attempts to stand, or move from his seat, Soldier will move in close (nearly face to face), tell him in a calm, but forceful voice: "Mr. Caine, I'm only going to say this one time, so I would advise you to listen to me very carefully. In the last few days, I've had an aircraft blown around me; nearly frozen to death; been attacked by dinosaurs, communist super beings, some sort of demonic other-worldly being; and now my new home has been invaded. So lets just say, it hasn't been a good week for me, and quite frankly, sir, I'm a little pissed. (At which point, he'll pause, reach down, remove his expandable baton, and flick it open, then continue). So my best advice to you, would be to sit down, be shut up, and await further instructions. Or you sir, are going to be in for a VERY, BAD, BAD DAY. Do we understand each other?"
I'll wait to see what Caine decides to do, while waiting to see what the others can pick up on the sensor. Also, are we in communication with the other group?

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Lightning Strike:
Strike must intervene at this point. "Nobody is getting melted just yet. We still don't have a clear grip on what is going on here. Put Nemesis down and let me attempt to isolate him from whatever is happening here."

With that, regardless of who takes Nemesis, Strike will surround him with an electrical field. The field should be harmless to whomever is inside it but hopefully disrupt the signal. Lightning Strike will vary intensity and frequency in case the signal adapts to his interference. His goal is to basically isolate Nemesis so that the power drain will stop.

Sorry for the delay
Tony

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Soldier:
“I'm still not sure what's going on here, but I do know one thing, if this guy says we have to do it (motioning at Caine), you can bet it's probably the wrong thing to do. My vote's to get him to a lab and see if we can contain him. But, if it does come destroying him, I'll do it.”

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Slingshot:
Private to GM:
A good plan goes awry.

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GM:
Private to Slingshot:
Deviousness just can't get a break anymore.

While Strike is isolating a field around Nemesis, do you want Slingy to sneak down to the electronics lab anyway, without his teammates, or does Slingy wait for the results of Strike's experiment? Thanks,
Jeff

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Slingshot:
Private to GM:
Hmm.. I'll try and sneak off with Shelley if possible. I need the sensor to see if Nanite is emitting.

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

Talon:
I will continue with my actions, but as I turn to leave the room, I will offer to find the rest of the group so that a rash decision isn't made. It might be best to get the scientists together to make an informed decision.

IC: As Adam turns to leave, he looks at Slingshot sitting frustrated with his head in his hands, "This is a big decision for one man to take upon himself. I'll tell the rest of the group what's going on so we can make this decision together. Vanguard is a team, let's work together avoid making a decision we might regret.".

Hope I got this in soon enough.

Viva Vanguard,

Denny

Monday, November 30, 2009

Vanguard: Issue 101: Homecoming.

Vanguard Vault, New York City, before dawn

The Soviet Star was over Manhattan. It was before dawn and the city was dark! They were on final approach to a darkened Empire State Building. The hangar door opened on the 85th floor and inside the hangar was pitch black! (J-1 on the Map) The Soviet Star touched down inside and then lost all power! Nemesis remained lifeless and the signal continued.

Mother Russia tore open the rear hatch like it was tissue paper.

Vanguard’s home was dark, silent and foreboding.
Manetti looked out into the eerie stillness. “Great. Now what?”

Siberian accepted Vanguard’s request for aid. But he offered no information to Symbiote’s request. The Soviet Super Soldier’s would stay to see this mystery solved!
When Soldier put out his hand, Polar Bear took it.

Avatar manifested Apollo’s power of sunlight and illuminated the hangar and everyone left the Soviet Star.

The silent darkness reminded Slingshot of the Luddite’s ability to deaden technology.

Talon, Soldier, Sentinel and Lightning Strike scanned the perimeter with their extranormal senses and found it devoid of other people. Cosmonaut may have done likewise but Vanguard couldn’t be sure.

Strike, Sentinel and Shelley perceived the silent signal emanating from Nemesis into the building, interacting with its electronic systems!
They also saw that not only was power out, but it was being funneled to a massive energy source in or near the Computer Lab on the lowest level of the Vanguard Vault. (82nd floor, C-1)
That wasn’t all. That’s where the city’s power was going. The Empire State Building was the center nexus of a massive power vortex!
Strike feared that if he transformed into electricity and entered the Vault’s systems, he would be swept away in that raging surge of power, like a child in a roaring flash flood!

This was not how the Luddite’s power worked. This was something new.

Symbiote handed out working flashlights from a locker in the hangar. Vanguard’s communicators were likewise powered but spotty, with all the crackling energy in the vicinity! They could not raise anyone.
Vanguard knew that only a skeleton force of CHESS personnel were on duty at this hour.

‘Siberian’ suggested dividing forces, to scour the entire Vanguard Vault. After a brief discussion, Vanguard and the Soviets divide in half to make sure none of them are at a disadvantage vs. each other.

Lightning Strike, Slingshot, Soldier, Talon, Shelley and Mother Russia, Polar Bear, and Accelerator will go to the Electronics Lab in search of Nanite. Slingshot took stewardship of the motionless Nemesis.
Sentinel would telepathically monitor Nemesis’ location as long as he remained within the range of his metal powers.

Forester decides to thoroughly search the rest of the base to ensure there is no one else here, as security is down. The quixotic quiver man believes he can best do that alone. “Good luck everyone,” he smiles.

Avatar, Sentinel, Symbiote and ‘Siberian,’ Cosmonaut and Shatter are going to the infirmary with ‘Clone’ (unconscious) and Manetti (injured). Clone knows that Cosmonaut and Shatter are Siberian loyalists and accustomed to acting as his personal guard. If ‘Siberian’ insists on a lopsided divide, he fears it may give him away! ‘Siberian’ was stuck! Cosmonaut carried the unconscious ‘Clone.’

The infirmary team took the stairwell near the North East corner of the building out of the hangar and down (parallel vertical lines in the upper right of each floorplan).

By the time they reached were between the 84th and 83rd floors, ‘Clone’ was stirring in Cosmonaut’s arms Wait. Cosmonaut was waking him!
“Traitorous Ukrainian dog,” swore Cosmonaut in anger at ‘Siberian.’
“You are not this team’s leader. You are Clone! Did you think my amazing sensors would miss the cybernetic implants of our team’s glorious leader?!

“Clone” was awake now and the area near him grew colder! Ice was beginning to form on his body!

Vanguard now knew that Clone and Siberian had switched places, against Siberian’s will! But why?

“Kill that traitor,” commanded the real Siberian, pointing at the real Clone! Cosmonaut and Shatter were happy to obey!

OOC: Actions for two actions of combat please! You’re in a tight, dark stairwell illuminated by Avatar and your flashlights!
Meanwhile, the other strike team had halted just outside the double doors on the south wall of the hangar. They were planning to descend in the dead elevator shaft in the SE corner of the building. But in the hall, they found a body on the ground! He was a Rook, unconscious and alive. Soldier’s training told him the Rook had been electrocuted! Polar Bear concurred; he smelled ozone in the air.

Accelerator smirked, “Um… on second thought, maybe I will take Symbozo up on his offer.” Then the slacker speed demon hurtled back the way they came, out the open hangar door and down the side of the darkened stone tower of the Empire State Building at blinding speed. Before anyone could act, he was beyond their sensory range and gone into the darkness of New York City!

Mother Russia sighed and cursed.

Then Polar Bear, Soldier and Talon detected something up ahead in the living quarters on the 85th floor (Room marked Q, southeast corner of building, adjacent to the elevator)

The team prepared itself and burst in!

“Good morning,” said Silas Caine! The richest man in the world sat calmly, as if he had been waiting for them. He held a flashlight and an old fashioned walkie talkie.
Lightning Strike believed this man had directed the Luddite to sabotage the lab that killed his wife and transformed him into the vigilante of voltage. Vanguard knew Caine was reputed to have had control of the Five Bosses of Big City’s underworld before the Black Bat tore them down.

“You can stand down now. I’m unarmed.

“Now… I’ll try to state this simply so that you may understand… you are all about to destroy the world.

“You’re bringing Nemesis to Nanite. Who do you think that benefits? Who has been guiding you?

“The poor man you called the Luddite was correct, in his way. There is a consciousness from Outside our universe that is trying to get in. Our plane of existence rejects “Him” as a body rejects an incompatible organ. But for whatever reason, cyberspace is condusive to his existence; it must share similar properties with His home dimension. He can see even through it, but not much more… yet.”

Vanguard realized there were no security cameras in this vicinity. Did Caine know? Is that why he choose this area? They recalled the Luddite’s journal all too well:
“…over the last 90 years an insidious invasion of what is benignly called technology, most dangerous of all the so-called internet revolution, is in actuality a malignant and guided transformation of human nature itself, preparing it for its dark fate…”

“…through my abilities, I have been chosen, blessed and cursed to stand alone against this secret enslavement of mankind… all technology is my enemy now…”

“Every silicon chip is another bacterium that invades and infects this dimension. Every computer screen is a portal through which they can see. And humanity is building these infectious portals as fast as its fingers will allow.”

Caine’s persona was unlike the one portrayed on television or even in his office with Police Detective Hank Archer the day the Luddite died. This man seemed much more capable.

“The more the digital world expands, the more our universe can accommodate His coming.
The constructs, Nemesis and Nanite, are his instruments. His Adam and Eve you might say.
Nanite’s death would have delayed, perhaps even prevented, His coming. But now you’re about to undo all that. Stop. I implore you.” Caine’s voice was deadly quiet.

“If our world is going to live, then Nemesis must be destroyed.”

The artificial man lay lifeless in the arms of Vanguard, still transmitting the Silent Signal. Mother Russia looked from the capitalist to ‘the Nemesis weapon’ to Vanguard. So did Shelly Harper.

Caine said, “Sacrifices must be made for the sake of the human race… you remember them. I’m asking you to help me save the world. You are “superheroes” after all. That IS what you do, right?”

OOC: Replies/Actions?!

Best,
Jeff

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

Current Locations: (see map!)

Avatar, Sentinel, Symbiote, Manetti and Siberian, Cosmonaut, Clone and Shatter were on the way to the infirmary and are currently at in the NE stairwell between floors 84 and 83. Sentinel can still sense where Nemesis is located. (His telepathic range is 750 feet)

Forester is searching the rest of the base. Exact location unknown.

Lightning Strike, Slingshot, Soldier, Talon, Shelley and Mother Russia and Polar Bear were on the way to the Electronics Lab and are currently in Room Q on the SE side of the 85th floor. Silas Caine is with them and Slingshot has stewardship of the motionless Nemesis.

Current Conditions:

Avatar: Hit Points: 40, Power Points: 41, Manifestation: Apollo: Light Powers

Forester: Hit Points: 23, Power Points: 68, Arrows Used: Parachute, Scentx2, Sonic, Acid, Flare, Impact

Lightning Strike: Hit Points: 25, Power Points: 73

Sentinel: Hit Points: 18, Power Points: 39, Creation Points: 78, Shields: 78%

Slingshot: Hit Points: 36, Power Points: 88, Invulnerability: 8

Soldier: Hit Points: 39, Power Points: 73, Invulnerability: 8
Symbiote: Hit Points: 70, Power Points: 99, Charges: 10, Copied Russia: S:60 E:22 A:18 I:25 C:13 Invul:8

Talon: Hit Points: 28, Power Points: 75

Clone: Total Bodies: 1. Hit Points: 8, Power Points: 51, Total Hit Point Pool: 8

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

Avatar:
Light Control attacks on Siberian for the next two actions. I'd like to hit him before he generates ice armor.

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

Symbiote:
IC: You know, I have had just about enough of this crap, Hal thought to himself as he prepared for the Soviet Super Soldier's attack. Three times we've extended the olive branch to these people, and three times we've had it knocked out of our hands. I'm ready to take that olive branch and shove it up their big, fat, Commie....

Decorum prevents me from completing Symbiote's thoughts, Faithful Reader. Suffice it to say his normal patience has now expired. He'll attack Cosmonaut with all of Mother Russia's borrowed fury, determined to inflict maximum damage on the Stellar Soviet's armor and hopefully render the man inside harmless.

Viva Vanguard,
Greg

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

Talon:
Hello Everyone,
IC: Talon steps toward Caine and growls, "It takes a lot of nerve for you to come into our home without invitation, and then insult us before explaining that we should kill the man we just travelled half a world away to rescue!". " What evidence can you provide that proves your statement is true?" Talon moves in close to Caine so he can react to any actions he might take, and to watch his facial expression when pressured so that he might be able to detect if he might be lying at any time.

OOC: Depending on his answer, we might split our group yet again. One group to watch Caine. Another to continue the search of The Vault to gain more information and to assess damage. Any opinions?

Thank You,
Denny

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

Sentinel:
Had Kirk been monitoring Hal's thoughts he'd have found they were echoing his own anger and frustration. He realized that Hal must have picked up some clue of this situation, even though Kirk had missed it.

Kirk read the body language of his teammates realizing they were moving to attack Siberian and Cosmonaut; it was a good strategy to take them out of action given that they'd both taken damage in the previous battle and his teammates were powerhouses.

However that left Kirk to keep the wildcard Shatter occupied. Had Kirk been able to recoup from the last battle he would have been unfazed and ready, at his current power levels and given the unknown capabilities of his combatant he thought another approach more prudent.

As the battle erupted Kirk crossed his legs assuming an apparently non-combative position and glided towards Shatter his hand pensively rubbing his chin as if in thought.

Kirk said to Shatter,
"Really? You follow this man (pointing towards Siberian)? His undisciplined arrogance caused his defeat in the prior battle. He is unable to maintain the loyalty of his team as is evident from his current predicament. And his action here questions whether he can even comprehend the scientific world altering event about to occur nearby.

Meanwhile, you emerge from the battle unscathed. Obviously you are more powerful than he ... that was your power that utterly obliterated our craft, wasn't it? (Kirk would love to get a response on this)
Surely if his ineptness led to his capture on US soil there would be someone better qualified, someone more worthy to assume leadership of the Soviet Super Soldiers upon returning home...

Kirk will try this approach, depending on Shatter's reception he will go with the whole speech or abandon it. If he can keep Shatter from the battle all the better, perhaps he does have aspirations of his own and would be happy for the opportunity to move up in the ranks ... or perhaps he is more interested in the events taking place in the other end of the base and would like to witness those events as a scientist.

Kirk was extremely reluctant to give up the body of Nemesis and wants to get back to the rest of Vanguard - the less time they have to waste with the internal affairs of the SSS, the better.

Actions:
Will depend on the reaction of Shatter and his decision. Kirk would love to piggy-back his attacks with those of his teammates (ala Forrester's battle technique) and actually not attack Shatter and hopefully help take out Siberian or Cosmonaut. He could coordinate his attack to go at the moment of Avatar given the light show Avatar will have at this point, Kirk's attack might manage to go undetected if he turned his energy 'clear' and the enemy was distracted by Avatar's light attack.
If it seems like that won't be happening then Kirk would try to hold his actions to see what Shatter would do - he could evade an attack of his at the last moment, or perhaps if he senses that Shatter is about to attack him, hit him first hoping to throw off his attack.

It is appears that Shatter isn't going to 'buy' Kirk's logic at this point, or he's just a lunatic and is going to attack then he'd do his best to preempt him and hit him first.

As the battle begins, if Kirk can use some of his movement to move the injured Manetti down the hall and out of the battle range and further injury, he will do so.

Given that we have two actions to cover - if you want to give me some additional if... then scenarios that you don't think I've covered, fire away.

Viva Vanguard!

Seth

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

Clone:
Well - I guess the cat . . . or in this case 'the Clone' . . . is out of the bag. Clone's initial reaction would be disbelief and fear ( for his family's safety - not his own ). This would quickly try into rage and determination ( he fears that Siberian will punish his family for his actions, and he won't allow that to happen ) as he splits into five duplicates. There are no funny little quips in broken English or attempts at a peaceful resolution for Clone in this fight - this one is for the whole bowl of borscht!!!
One of the Clones will do his best to help Manetti get to a safe location. The other four will attack Siberian and Cosmonaut. They will do their best to form a solid line across the stair case and try to charge the two like a football team ( depending on everyone is set up in the stair case of course ). One will attack Siberian - since Clone knows that he's been beaten like a 'red headed step child' for the whole flight to New York he's confident that one duplicate can take him down. The other three will gang pile on Cosmonaut like a pack of rabid wolves - dragging him to the ground and working him over like he owes them money! As far as Clone is concerned - THIS ends here! In his current state of mind he's convinced if the SSS win this fight that they'll go for his family back home next. He sees this fight as 'all or nothing'.
So in conclusion - one Clone will try to help Manetti get out of harms way, and the other four will go 'Helter Skelter' for two actions on Siberian and Cosmonaut. If it only takes the one Clone a single action to help get Manetti to a safe location then he will either join his fellow Clones in the melee ( where needed most ) OR 'rejoin' with a wounded Clone duplicate in hopes of replenishing the "human collective's" Hit Points.
-Kev

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

Slingshot:
[ooc]Sorry for the last minute. This is a conundrum that I do not like and that's entirely why (for a change) I've been slow to respond.[/ooc]

[ic]Slingshot looks at Caine. His animosity of the man is very real. He was the reason why Nanite was killed. On the other hand, Nemesis did take control of the ship and put us exactly here. Just as Nanite, miraculously, came awake.

Looking at the darkness surrounding them and the lack of cameras, he cannot help but think that it's all Caine's doing to stay "safe" from this thing he's rambling on about. Then again, after seeing what he's done to Vanguard with his PR machine, how can you trust such a man?

He's entirely too calm and collected. This feels like a setup. If he's that afraid, then let's see what he's willing to do about it.

Slingshot's demeanor changes as if he's come to a decision. He keeps his eyes riveted on Caine. He absorbs Nemesis within himself as if to protect it from the mafioso and proceeds to walk towards his original destination.
[/ic]

[ooc] Here are the options. The main thing is that Slingshot doesn't trust him. If this man is afraid of the devil's coming, he knows that he won't be able to escape from it for very long. So he's likely going to be very desperate about keeping the two androids apart.

That's what Slingshot's looking for. Clear and unadulterated fear and desperation. Something that shows real concern versus measured calculation from the man. Only then, will he trust what he just said.

So assuming he sees only the calculated version, then he'll just go on to his intended destination (especially the locking up part of it, no reason to let him run away. Not being stupid, I would likely tie him with something strong, such as metal tubes/rope something that would take very super human strength to break through).

If he sees the desperate, fear, some sort of real emotion from the man, then he will stop and ask for further information. These are androids. robots. They can be rebuilt. How can you destroy them in such as way that will avoid this thing from coming?
[/ooc]

This assumes, I'm not getting into a fight. Then it's Clobbering time!

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

Talon:
OOC: If it's not too late I will withdraw my statements and follow Slingshot's lead. Talon will place himself between Caine and the rest of our group to try and control any action that might take place.

Thanks,
Denny

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

GM:
Denny, because of Talon's weakness, Low Self Control, I'll roll vs Int on d20 for Talon to alter his more emotional, initial response into your second choice, and I'll include the outcome in the coming issue.

Best,
Jeff

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

Lightning Strike:
Hi all,
I have sufficiently recovered from my coma (11 Hours of sleep will do that).
Here is Strike's tardy action.

Strike confronted Caine immediately. "What proof do you offer for your accusations? The scribblings of a madman. You yourself have profited from the very things you say are going to destroy our world. Nemesis served this world bravely and prevented its destruction. "

Strike continues his questioning. "How did you manage to enter Vanguard Headquarters? What makes you so altruistic now? You have never shown much interest in saving humanity before. Controlling us maybe, but never saving us." He walks to Caine and demands that he show Strike the source of this energy drain. "Before we can even look at Nanite and Nemesis, we need to stop this electrical drain. Give me more details of our current situation and we can decide if your story is plausible."

Strike will allow Caine to show him and the group more of what is going on but will not allow him anywhere near Nemesis.

OK, that should do it for now.

Happy Black Friday!
Tony

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

Soldier:
OK, let's try this again. As I'm not familiar with Mr. Caine, or his history with the team. Soldier will ask Caine.

IC: "What happened to the Rook? And what are you rambling on about?"

As he doesn't trust him, he’ll move to position himself between Caine, and the downed Rook. If Caine continues to talk, he'll let everyone know he's planning on trying to revive the Rook, if he can't do that successfully, he'll try to get home to medical. If it looks like there's going to be fight, he'll try to shield the Rook from harm.

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

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Vanguard: Issue 100: Shooting Star!

The Soviet Star. Over South Africa. Late morning.

Sentinel and Lightning Strike scanned the ship for electrical and energy patterns! They detected the silent signal that emanated from Nemesis was interacting with the entire Soviet Star!
Strike deduced this was the cause of the ship repelling him!

BOOOOOM!! The jet broke the sound barrier. Everyone who wasn’t strapped down fell over!
Mother Russia cursed in her native tongue as she tried in vain to control the ship!

Shelley Harper, holding Slingshot’s scanner, detected that an additional signal beam projected from Nemesis to the front of the ship and beyond! “The signal! It’s pointed to the horizon! I don’t know how long it’s been broadcasting!”

Mother Russia yelled: “The nav computer has a new destination… New York City! This is your doing, Americans!!”
The Soviet Super Soldiers began to stand. They were yelling Russian to each other but their intention was clear. Vanguard had hijacked their ship and they were going to take it back by force!

“Siberian” felt “Clone” stirring next to him on the floor, gaining consciousness!
The Soviet Star accelerated again! VROOOOOOOOOOMM! It hurtled northwards!

Vanguard’s communicators suddenly crackled to life. “Vanguard, this is Doc Rocket. Something’s happened here at Vanguard HQ! It’s urgent that you know. Nanite is moving. She... she’s waking up!”

Then Mother Russia yelled in Russian, “Comrades! ATTACK!”

Accelerator absorbed velocity from the rocketing jet and transferred it to the nearest member of Vanguard: Symbiote, who had just entered the cockpit! ZOOOOMMM!! At a touch, the smirking, slacker speedster sent Symbiote hurtling straight backwards into the steel-skinned Soldier! KER-RUNCH!!
(Each take 20 points of damage! After rolling and Invulnerability, Symbiote loses 11 hits and Soldier 4)

Talon flew into a rage and slashed Cosmonaut’s chest with his razor claws! SKAAASH!! The hawkish hellion drew blood!

Symbiote raced back into the cockpit and grabbed Mother Russia, trying to convince her to end the battle. As he did so, the Harper Harness activated, duplicating her awesome abilities!
(OOC: Heightened Strength x 3 (+45) and Invulnerability: 8 )

Hal’s feathery wings drew into his back and disappeared as he yelled: "Did you hear that voice, Mother? That's Doc Rocket--a man who fought alongside your country in the Great Patriotic War against the Nazis," Hal growls at her. "He's telling the truth--we're not doing this. Something has taken control of this ship. We must stop this fight!"

Mother Russia snarled: “The something that’s taken control of my ship is you! The Nemesis device is an American weapon!”

Then Avatar summoned the oratory powers of Zeus himself. The air hummed with electricity as he spoke with the power and authority of a god! "A fight is going to rip this ship apart! If that happens, we ALL lose something, maybe our lives! Get control of yourselves! We need to band together and figure things out, not be trying to kill one another! Are we all a bunch of savages? Act like rational beings!"

His mighty presence silenced everyone and Talon’s battle rage dissipated! The fighting ceased… for now.
Lightning Strike said calmly and rationally: "We are not behind this takeover of the plane. You saw for yourself how it repelled me when I attempted to enter the electrical system. Some force greater than our own is leading us like puppets and you people are allowing it to happen. If we combine our forces, we may be able to find out what is behind this. Vanguard is clearly not."

Soldier tried to reason with them: “Stop and think about this for a moment, what in God's name could we possibly gain by this? We're not behind this, nor do we know who is.”

Slingshot silently extended elastic fingers to the CHESS Agents and was ready to flatten Accelerator against the wall with a giant hand. (save action)

Sentinel said: "We have a truce based on the mutual threat we discovered, a threat to both of our countries. A battle here won't stop that threat and may prevent both of our teams from conveying needed information… Let us leave this craft peacefully so you can try to regain control of it."

Mother Russia’s adamant resolve was weakening.

Then “Clone” started to wake up! The human collective had been dragged into the Cargo area at gunpoint by “Siberian.” “Clone” said, in Russian, “What.. what is happening?” Soldier and Forester thought the voice was deeper and different than Clone’s voice. They weren’t the only ones to take note.
Polar Bear and Cosmonaut watched closely. “What did you say, Comrade?” asked Cosmonaut.

“Clone” said in Russian, “Where are we? Where is Clone?!!”

“Siberian” barked: “Mother Russia! Cosmonaut! Get back into the cockpit and see if you can’t figure out what is going on – I want us back on our original course immediately!” “You sneaky Amerikanskis! Did you think that you could poison my mind with your abilities and take control of our ship so easily?!? Now . . . SIT DOWN!”
The leader of the SSS threw “Clone” down hard against the bulkhead! KANG! Bone met steel and “Clone” was silent again.“ . . . and keep this treasonous pig with you! We will decide his fate, and yours, when we land in Moscow!” “Siberian” threw the pistol at “Clone” as if to discard it as a useless toy. In Russian he barked at the remaining Soviets, “ . . . the rest of you keep an eye on them!” The Soviets obeyed their leader!

“Siberian” moved to the cockpit when suddenly the Soviet Star accelerated again! Shelley, Sentinel, Strike (and Cosmonaut) could sense the signal emanating from Nemesis that had interacted with the Soviet Star, now altered the jet, modifying it in a way they didn’t understand! The acceleration stopped.

Outside the windows, the view was a white blur! The radio went silent.
Seconds later the window view streaked and strobed and then the blur reassembled into night sky!

The Soviet Star was over Manhattan! It was before dawn and the city was dark! They were on final approach to a darkened Empire State Building. The hangar door opened on the 85th floor and inside the hangar was pitch black! The Soviet Star touched down inside and then lost all power!
Nemesis remained lifeless and the signal continued.

Mother Russia tore open the rear hatch like it was tissue paper.

Vanguard’s home was dark, silent and foreboding.
Manetti looked out into the eerie stillness. “Great. Now what?”

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

OOC: Actions please!
I’ll need your immediate actions, as well as intentions for the next 10 minutes.

Soldier, Forester, Symbiote and Strike have successfully deduced that something is wrong with “Siberian.”

Happy Halloween,
Jeff


Here's Vanguard's HQ, the newly christened Vanguard Vault! (with thanks and apologies to Dee and Herman's Crusaders)
Construction was just completed during the last down time.

The Soviet Star just landed in area J-1 on the top floor of the base. The adjacent hangar had the second Manta Craft in it when you last were there.

Everyone knows the lay of the land except Clone/Siberian.
Also, new guy Talon will have to make Intelligence saves on a d20 to find his way, if separated from Vanguard.
(Our diligent Soldier actually spent time learning the layout)

Welcome to your new home, Vanguard. I hope you survive the experience! ;)

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

Current Conditions:

Avatar: Hit Points: 40, Power Points: 66, Manifestation: Zeus: Oratory skill

Forester: Hit Points: 23, Power Points: 68, Arrows Used: Parachute, Scentx2, Sonic, Acid, Flare, Impact

Lightning Strike: Hit Points: 25, Power Points: 73

Sentinel: Hit Points: 18, Power Points: 39, Creation Points: 78, Shields: 78%

Slingshot: Hit Points: 36, Power Points: 88, Invulnerability: 8

Soldier: Hit Points: 39, Power Points: 73, Invulnerability: 8
Symbiote: Hit Points: 70, Power Points: 99, Charges: 10, Copied Russia: S:60 E:22 A:18 I:25 C:13 Invul:8

Talon: Hit Points: 28, Power Points: 75

Clone: Total Bodies: 1. Hit Points: 8, Power Points: 51, Total Hit Point Pool: 8

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

Avatar:
Drop the Oratory skill and summon up Light Control to illuminate outside of the craft. Avatar will provide illumination for everyone as needed. If anything attacks us, Avatar will retaliate with the offensive use of Light Control (is it a plain laser or is there some sort of other effect like an arrow from a bow or a spear of light or something along those lines?).

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

Sentinel:
Just wondering if we can assume that Avatar negotiated or confirmed a continued detente here with the landing in New York before dropping the oratory skill. Should we assume the SSS is 'playing nice' for now (likely we are all assuming that could end at any moment moving ahead anyway) or do we have to factor in a renegotiation right now so that they don't blow their way outside of the headquarters and start rampaging in New York. We kind of need to know this also to factor in the info we give to Chess at this moment and to prevent them from immediately attempting to apprehend them and making matters worse for now.

I guess I'm asking if are next round of actions are more for the continued presence of the SSS or more for moving ahead with what is happening in New York and with Nanite.

Thanks.
Seth

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

GM:
OOC:
Avatar: It's from Apollo so the bow is fitting and cool.

Sentinel: The Soviets don't appear like they are about to attack.
But their ship was just hijacked to your base.

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

Symbiote:
Well, this is a fine kettle of bortsch....

A couple of questions before posting:

1) Are there flashlights within easy access in the hangar bay? Just in case some of us get separated from Avatar, or in case he has to turn of the Light Control power to switch to something else?

2) Jeff, I assume that Mother Russia and Accelerator are still wanted by U.S. law enforcement after the breakout from CHESS castle?

3) Where was Nanite when we left for Antartica? (The electronics lab, I'm guessing).

Let us know. Everybody chime in, but I believe we should take a "you can help or you can leave now" approach to the SSS. Even if Mother Russia and Accelerator are wanted we should look the other way if they want to bail now (especially Mother Russia--I hate to let that weasel Accelerator go but we're not really in a position to pick and choose at this point). On the other hand, if they want to help us investigate this situation we should allow it and at least guarantee the two fugitives that we won't try to arrest them as long as they don't impede our mission or commit any new crimes while they're with us.

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

GM:
Symbiote,
1) Yes, and on the Soviet Star

2) Yes.

3) Yes. Electronics lab on the 82nd floor.

Best,
Yes-man Jeff

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

Sentinel:
Hi all.

Here is the list of actions dependent on exactly what happens:

First off, before we proceed with figuring out locally what is going on, Kirk wants to be sure that the SSS doesn't pose a current threat and that they will either leave peacefully and not create havoc once out of our sight or that they will accompany us with the current detente still in force. He'd likely be looking to Mother Russia to confirm as the most stable of the personalities and the one that could keep the SSS in check... if the situation allowed for him to get a mental 'read' to monitor their intent, he would do so. If they say they will stick with us and their intent is bad he would pass the info to his teammates as best as possible so each member could pass it along to be prepared.

Per Greg's post, them leaving peaceably, despite being wanted, would be the lesser of two evils here assuming their intent isn't to cause immediate mayhem (and really, why would they - they should want to use the situation to just get out of America territory safely) - not a great idea to have them roaming about our headquarters with or without us.

Next step assuming we aren't in battle with the SSS would be to access computer systems in the hanger bay to find out what has happened prior to the blackout. If the computers are down without a power source, perhaps Strike would be amiable enough to power them long enough to scan and see if we can get some handle on things prior to proceeding forward.

Unless we get intel for a more pressing priority, next step would be to make our way to the lab where Nanite was kept since that and Doc Rocket is the source of our last known contact and since Nanite has been our mission and is likely linked to whatever is now happening.

Whatever Kirk is doing or wherever he is going, he will stay alert, expect the unexpected, and pay attention to his energy senses to alert himself and Vanguard to any threats.

Best,
Seth

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Symbiote:
I'll adapt to Seth's take on things. My initial plan was to possibly have them come along, but let's face it, they attacked our jet (as far as we know) over Antartica, attacked us in Antartica and then tried to hijack us to Russia. A detente to work together to solve this entire Nemesis/Nanite mystery would be nice, but to be realistic it probably ain't gonna happen. Still, perhaps there's a way to leave the door open...

IC: Symbiote steps forward. "Welcome to United States territory," he says drily. "I'm sorry you're getting such a dark reception, but we seem to be having techical difficulties."

He addresses the figure that he believes to be Siberian, being unaware of Clone's switcheroo and assuming that the Chilly Comrade has resumed command of the SSS. "Siberian, I think I speak for the team when I say we have neither time nor, frankly, the inclination to fight you any more today. We've got our own mystery to solve. I recommend you gather your people and head over to the Soviet embassy," he says. Knowing that Soviet citizens sometimes defect when given the chance, however, Hal then spreads his attention to the rest of the Soviets. "If any of you wish to consider...citizenship options in the states, however....the U.S.consulate isn't too far away either. Entirely up to you, as long as you agree to leave peacefully and cause no problems within our borders."

Hal then looks directly at Mother Russia and Accelerator. "You two, in particular, are still wanted in this country," Symbiote says, giving Accelerator an especially stern look. "I don't think we're terribly interested in pressing the issue right now, but I can't guarantee your safety from any other law enforcement agents or even from us once we're done dealing with Nanite. However you got out of the country the first time, I suggest you do it again and fast."

Hal's voice then softens and he looks at them all. "We've gotten off on a very bad foot today. A shame, really, because our teams worked well together in escaping those dinosaurs." He then looks at both "Siberian" (putatively in charge) and Mother Russia (whom he considers the more reasonable of the two). "We're about to go find out what's going on with Nanite and Nemesis. I suspect the ramifications of that are going to be far reaching, for both of our countries and for the whole world," he says. "If you'd like to tell us what you know, what's been going on, why you were in Antartica, it could end up saving a lot of lives. I asked before and I'll ask again. If you'd like to help us--with information, if nothing else--we'd appreciate it."

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

Sentinel:
Greg: Thanks for dialoging it (with style :) ) - looks good to me if the rest of the team agrees.

Seth

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Soldier:
As much as I'd like for Soldier to kick Accelorator in the face, I'm with Greg on this one. We'll turn a blind eye if they decide to dip, but with a warning that next time we meet, all bets are off. If on the other hand, they want to throw down again, Soldier will target Accelerator, as he considers him the biggest threat. If we can work out a deal where they go, then so be it.

While Symbiote speaks, Soldier will switch on his sensor system, and scan the area for any immediate threats. He thinks to himself, "Somethings not right about this." But unless he detects something, he'll wait and let him finish up his speech, and then he'll chime in. "While I don't like to back down from a fight, and as much as I'd like to see you escorted out of here in chains, it's readily apparent to me, that something's going on here, and we could use your help." If you'r ewilling to put our differences aside, I'll do the same for now." He'll then extend his hand to the nearest SSS. And wait to see what happens next. At the same time, he'll stil keep his guard up for anything he perceives to be a threat, be it from the SSS, or anthing that might be lurking in hanger.

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

Clone:
Clone / Siberian will keep his arms crossed in front of him and stand stoically and defiantly before Symbiote as he and the other members of Vanguard speak. As if absorbing everything that is said and trying to plot his next move, Clone ( Siberian ) will just stand there for a moment . . . silent and motionless. He will then turn to Mother Russia and Cosmonaut and ( in Russian ) ask them what the status is on the Soviet Star. I’m assuming / hoping that all the flight systems are fragged. Regardless of their response I will turn my attention back to Symbiote and pause for a moment – again as if plotting his next move. He’ll then say to Symbiote and the rest of the Vanguard team and say ( in English ), “A joint effort may be in both our interests . . . we will help you search your base for the cause of all of this and assist you in any way that we can. When it is done we will leave and report our finding back to the Kremlin . . . agreed?”

Assuming that Vanguard agrees to this he will make the following suggestion / request, “Perhaps if we split into teams we will be able to discover what is going on more quickly.” He’s actually hoping that this suggestion is met with a positive response – he’s hoping that he might be able to get Symbiote alone so that he can discuss defection and explain to him what is going on ( his life, the reasons why he wants to defect, why he is so scared about defection, what’s going on with the SSS, etc. . . ).

If we do split off into teams, Clone will suggest / push for the following pairings: - Symbiote and Clone ( Siberian ): With Siberian ( Clone ) in tow, he will ask that they first take “Clone” to the infirmary to examine his wounds and to keep his traitorous comrade sedated and out of any more trouble while they search The Vault. - Soldier and Accelerator - Talon, Sentinel and Mother Russia - Avatar, Slingshot and Polar Bear - Lightning Strike, Manetti and Shatter - Forester, Shelley and Cosmonaut

Clone is actually hoping that he can kill three birds with this set up: 1. A chance to talk to Symbiote alone. 2. Stack the deck in Vanguards favor, so when it comes down to a fight ( which I’m sure will break out at some point lol ) the SSS will be forced to retreat and try to leave America and The Vault as quickly as possible. 3. The SSS seem more volatile when they’re together; he’s hoping that if they’re separated they might be more manageable. Separation might also keep the flow of information between the SSS members down a bit, and work in Clones favor with the whole defection thingie. If the pairing thing is agreed upon Clone ( Siberian ) will order the SSS ( in Russian ) to keep a look out for any information, technologies, floor plans, etc. . . that they might be able to take back with them to Russia. He wants to make them feel like this ‘pairing off’ is in the SSS’s best interest and not Vanguards.

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

Clone, private to GM:
When it comes down to the point where a fight breaks out ( I'm sure one will at some point lol ), or it comes time for the SSS to leave, based on Clones weaknesses and personality I'm assuming he would actually want to see them escape . . . with two exceptions . . . Siberian and Accelerator. He sees Siberian as cruel and evil would actually like to see him incarcerated ( the SSS and Russia would be better off without him in his eyes ), and Accelerator is nothing more then an escaped American criminal that’s probably best suited to stay in an American prison.

I wasn't going to mention this to the team, because I thought it might be a cool little plot twist for you at some point - Clone would actually help the others escape. Not that he would risk the safety of any of the members of Vanguard, but he would do his best in a non-violent way to see his old comrades get back to mother Russia. I'm actually hoping that in the process of Clone defecting that he can keep Siberian in the states. if he were to ever get back to Russia, Clone fears that Siberian may try to go after his family. Something which he could never allow - he would sacrifice his own life before he would ever let his family suffer for his decisions.

LOVE the campaign and the group by the way . . . -Kev

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

Talon:
Hello All,
Adam quickly tires of the verbal stand-off between the members of Vanguard and the SSS. He will move from the immediate area and search the area illuminated by Avatar's light. He feels like the time for talking has passed, and if the two groups continue to argue, he will find a light source and make his way toward the laboratory with the hope of finding Doc Rocket.

Adam knows that the time he spent at the Vanguard Headquarters limits his knowledge of the floor plan, but he feels like action should be taken to get to the bottom of this current mystery.

Viva Vanguard,
Denny

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

Slingshot:
The place is completely dark?! - Is there the same stillness that was when Luddite did his thing?

Faceoff with SSS: Slingshot will keep his finger link to the two agents and will do his darnest to keep them alive, well, out of the ship and into the hangar. I will attempt to do the same with Nemesis's body. Slingshot will leave the talking to those who do it best. Once that is done, if the SSS want to duke it out, I'll follow the lead of the others: try to keep from having a fight, but fight if necessary, as long as the agents and Nemesis are safe and protected, else, I'll stick to that.

First 10 minutes:Assuming that the SSS go home: Make my mission clear to the others: find Nanite as she was reactivated.

A couple of thing: Is my communicator dead as well? Does it seem that all electric/electronic devices have lost their power? (What about Symbiote's gear?) I'll keep that in mind as I hunt for her. If I find Doc on the way, I'll try to gather info on what occurred.

If SSS do not leave, but are not hostile: I'll take Nemesis with me, to bring it to the computer room and lock him up and find Nanite.
If SSS do not leave and are hostile: The Faceoff with SSS orders will stand.

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

Lightning Strike:

It is 7 to 1 Yanks so I think I can take a break to post.

Here is Strike's action.

As things start to settle down as soon as we touch down in the hangar, Strike moves quickly to trace the signal. "This power loss is similar to what we faced in the Antarctic. If we can shut it down before things start wripping apart, we may have a shot at getting out of this."

Assuming that hostilities do not immediately resume, Lightning Strike will head to where he remembers Nanite to be. Should the russians attempt to prevent him from leaving, he will offer to allow them to accompany him as a show of good faith. With no power, they shouldn't be able to steal any secrets.

If action does start up, then Strike will attempt to attack Mother Russia to hopefully demoralize the rest of the team.

That's all for now. Back to the Yanks!!!

Take care all,
Tony

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

GM:
Hey gang,
Please read what “Siberian” said in Clone’s post.
In short:
The leader of the SSS agrees to a truce and offers aid to Vanguard!
He also suggests a search of the base, and the deployment of several search teams.

(You'll recall that Soldier, Forester, Symbiote and Strike have successfully deduced that something is wrong with Siberian but aren't sure what.)

Responses?

Thanks.

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

Slingshot:
Scott doesn't particularly like having them with us, especially since Slingshot's a little distracted right now. He doesn't necessarily want them in tow.

I'll comply with the rest of the group.

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Soldier:
Even though Soldier trusts the SSS about as far as he can spit (he thinks they'll turn on Vanguard the first chance they get), he'll agree to the teamings, as he knows they need the help. He'll work with Accelerator, but will be keeping a close watch on him. Once everyone pairs up, he'll ask what sections of the building he's responsible for searching, and try to work out some form of communications. He'll Think to himself, "When this is over, we need to work out some sort of code, that'll allow us to communicate with each other, and a duress code to warn each other that something's not right." If he gets a chance, he'll whisper to Symbiote to "Watch his back, and keep a close watch on Siberian.”

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

Avatar:
I don't see a reason for six teams to cover the relatively small area of the HQ. Two teams at most and that's pushing it. I don't see why Accelerator and Lightning Strike can't scout the place out themselves a lot quicker than we could as a team or teams. Splitting ourselves up? No need to weaken us overall. Why split ourselves up so that an enemy can more effectively fight us? I can't imagine much that can take the combined might of the two teams.

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

Lightning Strike:
I have to agree (with Avatar). I can certainly cover more ground and get to where I remember Nanite being without having to wait up for Manetti. Strike will stick with original plan, especially being the consummate team player that he is.

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

Sentinel:
Kirk wants to get moving here and if the SSS want to assist and the rest of Vanguard are on board with that, won't fight it (although he preferred them being gone). His areas of concern and actions were previously outlined. He would also be against splitting up into such small teams. Unless they get additional intel, there is little reason to 'search' all the headquarters... all of NY lost power. The next move would be to find the closest link we had to what likely could have caused it - Nanite.

FYI, as a reminder, although Kirk allowed examination of Nemesis by his teammates, he has not surrendered control of his body and has him within his shields for protection both out of loyalty to a fallen comrade and as the other biggest lead to what is happening here. He would not give up 'possession' of him unless the circumstances really dictated it... and also thinks that Nanite and Nemesis coming into proximity of each other may also provide the next clues as to what his going on here. He is on board with Slingshot in making that happen with the least delay possible... if they do split up, he will go with Scott and Nemesis in tow toward the last known location of Nanite.

Best,
Seth

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

Symbiote:
Guess I didn't catch where Symbiote was one of the people with a suspicion about "Siberian" the first time around. This changes Hal's attitude a little...

IC: "Not in favor of splitting up the teams, Siberian. Partly because, frankly, I don't like the idea of some of you loose in our headquarters without maximum supervision," Symbiote says, looking directly at Accelerator. "More to the point, for the moment, at least, I'm not sure we need to. Nanite is down in our computer lab. I'm betting we'll find the answers--or at least the next step--down there."

Hal then looks at the sleeping form of "Clone" and then to Manetti. "But Clone is injured, and so is Agent Manetti," Hal says. "If you'd like, you and I can take them down to the infirmary while the rest of the teams head for the lab. First priority should be taking care of our injured comrades." Hal then turns to Sentinel. "Perhaps you could come with us, Sentinel," Hal says. He casually begins scratching his temple, which means he's also pointing at it, in a way. "It would be interesting to hear your 'read' on this situation."

If everyone agrees "Siberian," Symbiote, Sentinel and Manetti will head for the infirmary, carrying the unconscious "Clone."
Hal will go with or without Sentinel, unless "Siberian" is unwilling to take "Clone." In that case he'll simply head to the computer lab with the rest.

Viva Vanguard,

Greg

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

Sentinel:
Kirk picks up on Hal's signal but not the reason why (OOC Kirk is oblivious to the situation with Clone/Siberian and this actually makes sense in character given his preoccupation with all the info he hasn't had a chance to share with anyone yet)... if it was anyone else asking he would likely have gone ahead to Nanite at this point, but since it is Hal, he will proceed with him given their friendship and his respect for reading situations (ie if Hal thinks its important for Kirk at this time to accompany him then it must be - Kirk must be missing something here).

Kirk would take Nemesis with him to the infirmary at this point. If Scott wants to take him, he would say, 'it might be best for you to determine the situation with Nanite first and then for us to bring Nemesis along after, this way we can all be present' - given that Nanite and Nemesis seem to be the strongest focal points for whatever is happing here it would be best to have our full power present when they come together ... just in case.'

If at that point, Scott is still determined to take Nemesis along (and it seems the consensus of Vanguard not to wait), Kirk would give him to Scott's protection. Also, if things go that route, Kirk would place a mental 'lock' on Nemesis. Since you allowed him to read 'the echo' of his memory, I'm assuming this could work. At this point Kirk could keep tabs on the other team's location and should Nemesis come back to consciousness, Kirk would be aware and hopefully aware of the situation. Kirk would keep his defenses up should he get the 'lock' also concerned that given that Nemesis is one of the focal points to the energy, he doesn't want to get his brain fried or taken over if something bad happens with Nemesis in some physic feedback. If the 'lock' wouldn't work for some reason that's fine too.

Hope I didn't miss anything...

Viva Vanguard!!!

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

Avatar:
I'll stick with Symbiote, personally. Still lighting the way, still ready to flash an enemy or shoot one, if necessary. I'll make sure that everyone knows that my very first action against an enemy might be to blind them and I'll have a warning word as well as a gesture worked out to ensure (or attempt to ensure) that allies avert their vision.

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

GM:
OK, here's what I have:

Avatar, Sentinel, Symbiote and Siberian are going to the infirmary with Clone (unconscious) and Manetti (injured).

Meanwhile, Lightning Strike, Slingshot, Soldier, Talon, Forester, Shelley and Mother Russia, Polar Bear, Shatter, Cosmonaut and Accelerator will go to the Electronics Lab.

Nemesis will stay with Sentinel unless Slingshot wants to take him to the Electronics Lab.

Slingy?

Also, all Soviets that aren't unconscious are all on one team, except one. A few might slide over so their leader isn't outnumbered!

Thanks,
Jeff

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Slingshot:
I'll return Nemesis to the lab and put him under lock and key if he stays dormant while I look for Nanite.

Stephane

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Thursday, October 29, 2009

Vanguard: Issue 99: Deadly Détente!

Over the Lost Lands, Antarctica. Morning.

VROOOOOM! Piloted by Mother Russia, the Soviet Star headed north with the survivors, American and Soviet. They had located the source of the silent signal that emanated from Antarctica: Nemesis, the synthetic superhero who had gone missing with the Freedom Force! Discovered by Slingshot, the silent signal was found to be emanating from everything that held a computer, including Nanite.

Slingshot entered the cockpit. The wounded white giant, Polar Bear, eyed him warily, ready to act if he must. Whereas Accelerator just got out of the pliable powerhouse’s way.
Scott put what he hoped was a comforting hand on Mother's shoulder and said tentatively, "spacebo".

Mother Russia’s reply was genuine enough. “You’re welcome… tovarisch.”

Slingshot’s engineering background told him the jet had much in common with the lost Manta Craft, albeit with Russian markings. There was no mechanical reason Vanguard’s jet should be disintegrated in mid air and not theirs. The gentle giant headed back to watch over Nemesis with Sentinel.

Sentinel had transmitted a coded message when Slingy was in the cockpit, from the cabin on the jet’s left side. He reemerged with Nemesis into the cargo area and sat down.
Then Sentinel began to read the Soviet Super Soldier’s minds! Accelerator was an open book. The craven American convict was wondering when the niceties would end and everyone would begin killing each other. “What are they waiting for? We’re bringing them to the Kremlin.” He was also relieved to be out of the Lost Lands. Without Avatar to rally their morale, the Soviets had been overcome with skincrawling dread upon entering the valley and that fear had informed their every decision, including the quick retreat. What they found in the Lost Lands was clearly unexpected.
Then Sentinel read the mind of Cosmonaut and found the space age superbeing thought in the Russian language. In time Kirk succeeded in “translating” emotions and mental images: The Soviet Union was an Orwellian society that Kirk could not begin to understand. Their whole life, they had been fed propaganda that distorted their understanding of the world and its history. These people suffered deprivation and tyranny that bordered on slavery. Siberian was a cruel master. Cosmonaut willfully ignored much of that, given the resources made available to him to continue his amazing feats of engineering. But deep down he knew he was expendable, as was every citizen of the USSR. They were a true collective. There was no individual. All that mattered was the state, and the Iron Tsar. He mourned Echo, but only for a moment. She sacrificed herself for the common good. She was a hero of the motherland. There was a mental flashback to when he first knew she was dead: His sensors knew Forester and Sentinel were telling the truth about her fate because it could hear their heartbeats from twenty meters away. Cosmonaut had informed Mother Russia and Polar Bear, his two closest teammates, of this.
Sentinel kept his shields up and defended the motionless Nemesis.

Clone entered the cabin that held Siberian after standing guard outside the door.

Avatar surreptitiously reviewed Sentinel’s encoded message. His archeological training told him that Sentinel had captured a recording of some sort; pictoglyphs carved into the rock that formed the walls of the Temple of Terror. Given time, and a larger image, John might be able to decipher it!

Symbiote entered the cockpit said, "Mother...on behalf of Vanguard I respectfully request that you land this ship in Japan and drop us off. And just to avoid any misunderstanding I'll make it clear now, we will be taking Nemesis with us--he's a sentient being and an American citizen, we're taking him home. If the purpose of your mission was peaceful scientific research I promise we'll share any research that reveals how he got there and the nature of that strange temple, you have my word as a scientist. But it's time we went home--we still have an injured teammate to try to revive, as well as Nemesis himself,"

Mother Russia said evenly, without taking her eyes from the controls, “We too have had injuries. And a death. What will become of us if we return home with nothing to show for this loss? We are going directly home.”

Symbiote said, "Frosty the Communist back there threatened to kidnap me, take me back to the Soviet Union and pry all the secrets out of my brain. I've always wanted to see your country--Andrei Sakharov was an inspiration to me as a scientist--but not from the inside of a KGB interrogation room. No sale."

Polar Bear and Accelerator tensed.
Mother Russia said, each word measured carefully, “We were once allies, your people and mine, against the Nazis. The Soviet Union withstood the majority of the casualties then too. I’m truly sorry for any inconvenience this might cause you. And we must also examine the American technological weapon, code named Nemesis.”

Soldier and Talon slowly removed their flight straps and stood.
Symbiote said: "Mother Russia, we have two injured, tired teams here who don't need another fight. But if you want one, we'll give it to you. It's tough to say who would ultimately come out on top but regardless we won't find out today because if we start a battle right now the first casualty is going to be the Soviet Star. A battle between us will tear this ship apart and then most of us will fall to our deaths, freeze to death, drown or die of some delightful combination of all three. Do you really want that?"

Mother Russia said, “No. And neither do you. Which is why you will not attack us onboard this craft. Americans are not famed for giving their lives to a cause bigger than themselves. And.., there are normal humans among your number. Surely they would be most endangered by any such hostilities, no?”

Slingshot stood up and positioned Sentinel and Nemesis behind him. A battle was inevitable.
Lightning Strike prepared to turn into living electricity when suddenly…

Siberian emerged from his cabin, holding a soviet Pulse Pistol to the head of an unconscious Clone!
(No one knew that their identities had been reversed, and that Clone’s impossible plan to defect had succeeded so far! Clone knew Siberian had remained unconscious. There were two parachutes in the cabin. Clone discovered that under his uniform, Siberian’s ice devices were woven into scarred flesh and bone, and his face looked improbably young for his age.
Clone saw the jet was over South Africa, on a straight flight path to Moscow, and had made his move!)

Cosmonaut implored with “Siberian” in Russian, “What are you doing? You’ve sustained a head injury, comrade! Clone is on our side!” Then: “Are your devices damaged? Why are you using the pistol?”

“Siberian” said, loud enough for Symbiote to hear from the cockpit, "I am remembering, once, Peter the Great had problem like this,” as he moved to the airlock in the rear of the cargo bay!
But the airlock would not be opened! “Siberian” knew the correct code sequence but it would not budge!!

Lightning Strike, assuming combat would begin, transformed into electrical form to enter the ship and seize control of it! SHAKA-BOOM!! But the electrical avenger was forced back in a burst of sizzling sparks! SHAKOW!! He returned to human form, completely surprised! The ship was charged to repel him!
Lightning Strike could not enter it! Nor could he control it!

Soldier’s combat senses detected danger! The hair went up on the back of Talon’s neck!

Mother Russia barked to Vanguard, “What have you done? The ship is changing course!”

Sentinel and Lightning Strike scanned the ship for electrical and energy patterns! They detected the silent signal that emanated from Nemesis was interacting with the entire Soviet Star!
Strike deduced this was the cause of the ship repelling him!

BOOOOOM!! The jet broke the sound barrier. Everyone who wasn’t strapped down fell over!

Mother Russia cursed in her native tongue as she tried in vain to control the ship!

Shelley Harper, holding Slingshot’s scanner, detected that an additional signal beam projected from Nemesis to the front of the ship and beyond! “The signal! It’s pointed to the horizon! I don’t know how long it’s been broadcasting!”

Mother Russia yelled: “The nav computer has a new destination… New York City! This is your doing, Americans!!”

The Soviet Super Soldiers began to stand. They were yelling Russian to each other but their intention was clear. Vanguard had hijacked their ship and they were going to take it back by force!

“Siberian” felt “Clone” stirring next to him on the floor, gaining consciousness!

The Soviet Star accelerated again! VROOOOOOOOOOMM! It hurtled northwards!

Vanguard’s communicators suddenly crackled to life. “Vanguard, this is Doc Rocket. Something’s happened here at Vanguard HQ! It’s urgent that you know. Nanite is moving. She... she’s waking up!”

Then Mother Russia yelled in Russian, “Comrades! ATTACK!”

To be continued in Vanguard’s 100th issue!


OOC:
Immediate actions, please!
Fyi, Missed attacks in close quarters have an 8-16% chance to create an unexpected result, depending on the attack form.

Current Conditions: (most of you had a chance to heal power points)

Avatar: Hit Points: 40, Power Points: 82, Manifestation: none

Forester: Hit Points: 23, Power Points: 69, Arrows Used: Parachute, Scentx2, Sonic, Acid, Flare, Impact

Lightning Strike: Hit Points: 25, Power Points: 74

Sentinel: Hit Points: 18, Power Points: 40, Creation Points: 80, Shields: 80%

Slingshot: Hit Points: 36, Power Points: 89, Invulnerability: 8

Soldier: Hit Points: 43, Power Points: 81, Invulnerability: 8

Symbiote: Hit Points: 51, Power Points: 90, Charges: 11, Copied Talon: S:20 E:27 A:24 I:25 C:13
Talon: Hit Points: 28, Power Points: 76

Clone: Total Bodies: 1. Hit Points: 8, Power Points: 52, Total Hit Point Pool: 8

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

Avatar:
OOC: Can Oration or Diplomacy skill have an immediate affect (perhaps halting the actions of others briefly while they listen) or would they take time that we wouldn't have?

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OOC GM Replies to Avatar:

Depending on the speech, and the dice rolls against the skill values, it could have an immediate effect.
Talk is free in V&V and comic books, so they'll hear it.

Best,
Jeff

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Avatar:
OOC: Could I activate the Oratory skill and speak or would actions/attacks have already been made by the time I summoned up the power and started speaking?

------------------------------------
Symbiote:
Well, I hope I was wrong about the sturdiness of this jet, Symbiote thinks to himself. Then he launches into battle.
"Somebody stop Accelerator before he reaches any momentum!" Hal roars, hoping that in the confined aircraft the Mountebank of Momentum will have little chance to build up a head of steam anyway. He then dives for Mother Russia, palms out, hoping to absorb her powers.
If he can't copy her powers for whatever reason he'll slash her with Talon's claws.
If he can, and he has time for an action afterward, he'll attempt to grapple her, hoping to immobilize the Bombastic Babushka before she can throw a punch that might end up ripping a hole in the aircraft. If he can get her into a full Nelson or some similar immobilization hold, even part way, he'll continue to try to reason with her. "Did you hear that voice, Mother? That's Doc Rocket--a man who fought alongside your country in the Great Patriotic War against the Nazis," Hal growls at her. "He's telling the truth--we're not doing this. Something has taken control of this ship. We must stop this fight!"

OOC: Reasoning with these people so far has been like trying to reason with a stone so I have little hope of this working, but still, Hal feels obliged to try. If nothing else he at least gets to wrestle with Mother Russia. Jealous, Denny? ;)

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Sentinel:
OOC: Kirk may also speak before the melee breaks out (if I get time to post what's in my head).

But can you confirm
(1) just where are we geographically as the fight is about to erupt - we did have some time pass, so are we out of the frozen waste yet and above or close to land
(2) on the signal emanating from Nemesis - does it contain any of the unearthly type of energy like that from the temple? Or is it something different?

Thanks.
Seth

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Avatar:
"A fight is going to rip this ship apart! If that happens, we ALL lose something, maybe our lives! Get control of yourselves!

We need to band together and figure things out, not be trying to kill one another! Are we all a bunch of savages? Act like rational beings!"

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Slingshot:As far as stopping Accelerator from gaining momentum, I've got the perfect power for it. I'll just squish him against the windshield with an enlarged palm. The problem is that I'm abysmally slow. He would have a million phases to gain momentum before I react to squish him.

Unless Avatar's Oratory skill keeps him spellbound until I react..

So I've got two things I'm thinking about doing:
1-Since I can glide, I was thinking of protecting our civilians and the "unconscious" Nemesis. I could extend a "finger" to each of them and "rope up" Nemesis. Leaving me with at least a fist for combat and possibly do the parachute thing if we need a fast escape.
2-Just expand. I'll squish everyone against the walls and I'm not sure how much I'll be able to take as far as damage.. there's a whole lot of heavy hitters on Russia's side.

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Sentinel:
Kirk was still reeling from his perceptions of the Soviet society as he heard Avatar trying to reason with Mother Russia to prevent the battle which would destroy their transportation.

He added,
"So your team doesn't want to go to New York anymore than we want to go to Moscow. We get it.
We have a truce based on the mutual threat we discovered, a threat to both of our countries. A battle here won't stop that threat and may prevent both of our teams from conveying needed information.

Think, these aren't the days of the Iron Patriot*, and you don't have * and * by your side.
From what we've seen, outside of your Soviet borders and its reprisals, half your team is likely to desert for their own agendas if it looks this battle is going our way, and we don't need even need to win this battle, we only need to take out the member of your team that may have the technical expertise to turn this ship around (Kirk looks at the Cosmonaut).

Let us leave this craft peacefully so you can try to regain control of it."

* Kirk uses his heroic lore skill to recall the name of their first and greatest loyalist superhuman, I used the Iron Patriot, but you can switch to whoever you had in mind which would predate Mother Russia. Then the second group of names would be Iron Maiden's closest associates from twenty year's back. Kirk is playing on the fact that having been away from the team for twenty years and just getting back to them, their make-up has changed, and she can't count on her team if things get tough (with a hired thug (Accelerator) and unstable personality (Shatter), etc)

Kirk is hoping that if the Battle is prevented and they get Nemesis off the craft an incident here can be prevented here. Whether Nemesis or the force working through him will allow his leaving the craft prior to it reaching New York is another issue at this point.

If the battle does break out, and Kirk has a choice, he will try to take out Cosmonaut since he is likely the one that has the skills to take back control of the guidance system.

If the hull is breached and Manetti and Shelly aren't in the safe control of one of his teammates Kirk would use movement of his energies to encircle them and prevent their freefall. If a battle does start and he has an idea of where the parachutes are kept on the craft, he'll use his movement to try to get chutes to them and other non-flight members of the team.

Best,
Seth

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GM:
Hey,
Please weigh in:

What is the name of Vanguard's base?
It's atop the Empire State Building.

Let me know your thoughts! Thanks.

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Symbiote:
I'd propose "Vanguard Pinnacle."

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Talon:
Hey Everyone,

OOC: Adam will leave the diplomacy to those best suited for negotiation. He will keep his eye on Cosmonaut since he's the SSS closest to Talon. If a fight breaks out he will focus his attacks on Cosmonaut, but if Polar Bear or another come from the cockpit, he will turn and meet their oncoming attacks.

IC: Adam looks at Cosmonaut and says, "You keep those gadgets where they belong, and I won't have to tear up the rest of that pretty suit!".

As for the name of the Vanguard HQ, I will have to recommend "The Heroes Aerie". Seems fitting for the suggestion of a bird-man. :)

Viva Vanguard,
Denny

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Slingshot:
Thinking of something that would go well with a group called Vanguard:
Outpost
Lookout
Beacon
Observatory
Watchtower (I know).
Vanguard Vigil?

I personally like "The Beacon" a lot, but I also like "Vanguard Vigil" as it has the VV thing going for it.

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Sentinel:
Certainly the Beacon of Liberty would have an affinity for the HQ being called the Beacon.

Before reading suggestions of everyone the 'Zenith' came to my mind.

My only problem was the reference to the TV company from my younger years ... and to my surprise, Zenith TVs are still around - I'd thought they disappeared years ago. Does that association sour the name?

Seth

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Slingshot:
I like Zenith.

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Symbiote:
I could easily live with Zenith.

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Avatar:
Vigil sounds best to me, so far. Always liked alliterative superhero names.

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Clone:
OOC: I was working on my response and I had a question for you - how much does Siberian's mask alter the sound of Clone's voice ( if at all )? It looks like he may have some kind of a respirator on it thats why I ask. Hopefully it makes him sound like Darth Vader ( lol ), and Clone will be able to speak aloud without anyone ( especially the Soviets ) knowing its actually him and not Siberian. Thanks, -Kev

PS: I hate to make what might seem like an overly obvious and rather simple suggestion, but how about calling it - 'The Vault'? or even - 'The Guard Tower'.

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Slingshot:
Well.. technically The Vault is already taken (it's the blog site), which is not a big deal. Watch Tower/Guard Tower are good options too.

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Clone:
I was suggesting 'The Vault' for that exact reason actually - figured it was the games home ( the blog ), why not make it the groups home. I can see how it might not be the best idea going, but I agree with you - I like 'The Guard Tower' as well. I thought about 'The Watch Tower' also, but I think that might remind folks too much of DC Comic's Justice League - if not - I'm down with that too =) They both make me think of some kind of protective citadel hovering tirelessly and vigilantly over the city/country/world. -Kev

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Lightning Strike:
Strike fearing that this conflict was inevitable steeled himself for another battle. He would try to convince them one last time before heading into combat. "We are not behind this takeover of the plane. You saw for yourself how it repelled me when I attempted to enter the electrical system. Some force greater than our own is leading us like puppets and you people are allowing it to happen. If we combine our forces, we may be able to find out what is behind this. Vanguard is clearly not." Lightning Strike says. Should combat begin, Strike will target Mother Russia as she clearly is the leader and the others might fall in line if she goes down.

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Soldier:
Finally hearing enough, Soldier rises from his seat and speaks. "You've got to be kidding me. Are you people insane! Stop and think about this for a moment, what in God's name could we possibly gain by this? We're not behind this, nor do we know who is. Surely you can see some outside power is behind this. We don't want to fight you. We have to work together to solve this, if we don't we're all going to die." He'll wait for the SSS response, and while he's willing to talk, he's not going to be anyone's punching bag. He'll prepare to defend himself.

OOC: Hmmm....The Vault. I like it, it's simple, but has the right "feel" to it.

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Clone:
As Vanguard tries to keep the Soviets calm, and the Soviets begin to talk among themselves, Clone ( while disguised as Siberian and employing the voice altering nature of the masks respirator ) will chime in ( in English ), “Enough of this bickering! Until The Kremlin relieves me of my duties, I am still in command! Soviet Super Soliders . . . hold your attack!”
Clone then begins to think to himself ( in Ukrainian of course ), “I hope I said that correctly . . . my English isn’t as good as I would like it to be.” If everyone seems convinced that Clone is actually Siberian and the Soviets ‘fall in line’; Clone will bark in Russian “Mother Russia! Cosmonaut! Get back into the cockpit and see if you can’t figure out what is going on – I want us back on our original course immediately!”
Although he realizes that he’s probably asking them to do something that they most likely won’t be able to accomplish, but he needs to keep up his disguise and behave as Siberian would . . . for the most part ;) If everyone still seems to be ‘buying it’ Clone will then say in English,” You sneaky Amerikanskis! Did you think that you could poison my mind with your abilities and take control of our ship so easily?!? Now . . . SIT DOWN!”
Trying desperately to remember every American cowboy movie he saw growing up, he will try desperately to keep his English as perfect as possible. Again – assuming everyone ‘plays along’ ( Vanguard and the Soviets ) and I can continue down this road, Clone will then throw Siberian ( currently dressed as Clone ) at the Americans ( making sure to bump his head good and hard again – can’t have him waking up lol ), “ . . . and keep this treasonous pig with you! We will decide his fate, and yours, when we land in Moscow!” He then throws the pistol at Siberian ( Clone ) as if to discard it as a useless toy. In Russian he will then bark at the remaining Soviets, “ . . . the rest of you keep an eye on them!” He will then walk up to the cockpit and see what Mother Russia and Cosmonaut are up to.
OOC: Now I know I’m throwing a ‘brass set’ around out there, but hopefully Clones little performance will work and a fight won’t break out. He’s also hoping that he gave Vanguard a little more time to work something up on their own - a battle plan, a chance to find out what’s going on, etc. . . With any luck he’s also kept the Soviets distracted with chores so that Vanguard can do whatever it is they feel they might need to do. One thing Clone is definitely concerned with is Siberian – he can’t afford to have him wake up. If he wakes up Clones goose is cooked! Not only would Siberian have him arrested ( or worse ) as a traitor, but his family would be targeted for punishment as well. Clone would rather die then see his family suffer because of his actions. He realizes that he’s dancing on the razors edge, but doesn’t think he’ll get an opportunity like this ever again. His heart is swimming in anxiety and his mind is drowning in fear. If for any reason Clone's act should fall apart and he gets discovered, he'll immediately switch sides and start fighting beside Vanguard. With any luck though his little 'Mission Impossible' stunt will work out *crosses fingers*
Talk to you all soon,
-Kev

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GM:
OK, here are the names that have been proposed:
Pinnacle
Heroes' Aerie
Vigil
Zenith
Outpost
Lookout
Beacon
Observatory
Watchtower
GuardtowerVault

Any and all can be preceded by "The" or "Vanguard" or both. :)

You each get one vote. Cast your final votes please.

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Soldier:
I'm voting for The Vault, as I just like the sound of it.

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Clone:
I'm going to vote for The Vault as well.

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Slingshot:
I'm partial to the Zenith or Vigil.

I think it's a better name for an HQ. Vault feels like the name of a prison more than an HQ of a vanguard "tactical" team. Failing the two above, I'd probably lean towards alliteration and go Vault.

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GM:
"I'm partial to the Zenith or Vigil."
One man, one vote!
Or I'll give .5 points to each of these if you prefer.

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Slingshot:
Fair enough. I'll go with Vigil for alliteration's sake.

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Talon:
I'll go with Vigil.

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Lightning Strike:
I can go for Vault if that is what everyone else wants.

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Symbiote:
I'll go ahead and throw in for "The Vault." Yes, it has connotations of a prison but it also has connotations of a heavily fortified, impressive place. And yeah it's also the title of the archives, but as I recall the Fantastic Four letters page was called "The Baxter Building Bulletins" for years. There's a precedence for this sort of thing.

Plus...alliteration. I'm all about awesome alliteration and assonance....

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Avatar:
Vault or Vigil. Something with a "V".
Vault is probably best.

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Sentinel:
If we are going with the 'VV' idea, I'd go with Vault over Vigil. Vigil has too much of a of an action rather than a place, at least to me.

With the Vault - you get a place and you also have the verb action connotation of vaulting or overcoming. Works as Vanguard's Vault or just "The Vault" too.

If we aren't going that way both Pinnacle and Zenith convey the highest point, along with Vanguard name itself, 'the best of the best'.

But for some reason I couldn't get the Sanctom Sanctorum out of my mind - not for Vanguard mind you, but just shows why Stan was 'The Man'. Hmm, Vanguard Vantorum, who says it had to make any sense :).

I don't think I'll lose any sleep on any of the names put forth.

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GM:
The results:

Vault: Soldier, Clone, Symbiote, Avatar, Lightning Strike, Sentinel

Vigil: Slingshot, Talon

The Vault it is!

Thanks everyone!