Vanguard Roll Call!

Vanguard Roll Call!

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

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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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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?”

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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! ;)

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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

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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?).

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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

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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.

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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.

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

2) Yes.

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

Best,
Yes-man Jeff

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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!!!

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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.

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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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