Inside cyberspace
Everyone slowly opened their new eyes.
The world was black with billions of glowing chrysalis gossamers that formed shapes, landscapes, cities of data. (Imagine Tron, the Matrix, Neuromancer, etc)
The gossamers connected to billions of diadem screens, windows into our world. More gossamers erected a reverse angle cyber cathedral in the digital landscape; a mirror reflection of the one on Earth, far from this place.
Vanguard had gone through the portal. Lightning Strike and Clone were there too. So were Silas Caine, Siberian, Cosmonaut, Shelley and Doc Rocket who was waking up from the shock of being reconfigured into a digital being.
They saw, within this dimension’s cyber-cathedral, Nanite and Nemesis likewise rendered in data. Overhead, the entire “sky” was now the giant face of the Entity. The “sky” held an expression of anger and rage when it bellowed: “I/WE SHALL DELETE YOU!”
Vanguard saw the portal nearby, only now from the opposite side as before, and it was damaged. Through it, rippling, they could see the Computer Room in the Vanguard Vault, color and light cutting through the darkness. The portal flickered. It was slowly closing, and with it the way home!
Sentinel made a speech. “We aren’t exactly what we seem to be here. I think you all feel it too. And whatever we are, this dimension is rejecting us. The longer we are here the weaker we will become.
I think we see ourselves and each other currently as defined by our physical selves back home, but I think here, we are more the sum of our inner selves; that is our strength and power. And I think that we have an opportunity and an obligation here to be sure that this “Entity” doesn’t have another chance to regroup and threaten our world … or any other.”
Turning to everyone present he said, “While we are all at our strongest, we need to take down this creature together. This goes beyond any nation and individual - this is about the safety of our entire universe. Have faith in yourselves and your inner strength! The universe has always seemed to balance the scales against insurmountable odds. Strike as one! Victory is at hand!”
Sentinel’s speech moved even the coldest heart.
… Save Silas Caine’s. Translated into the rules of this other dimension, he seemed immensely powerful here, full of raw vitality. He did not join the charge, instead watching Nemesis and Nanite.
Doc Rocket too was rewrit large. Bursting with the vigor and speed of youth unfaded, Britain’s Einstein of WWII launched at the sky on his linear digital rocket pack. Except it hadn’t been there a moment ago.
ZROOOOOMMMM! Somehow Doc fired energy at the Entity’s leviathan face! ZARK!
Siberian joined Sentinel’s call to attack! Digital ice exploded from his hands and struck the Entity! Zwoooshh!
The Entity’s sky visage twisted in something like agony and screamed.
“I/We am/are invaded. Virus lifeforms detected. Organic infestations corrupting my/our database. Alert!”
At that the very landscape shifted, the lines of the cybercosmos grew brighter, hotter. Then his titanic eyes went white and energy bolts flew from them! ZMMMMMMMMMMMM! The immense beams engulfed Doc and Siberian! ZAAXZP!
Doc fell from the sky like Icarus, crashing hard into the vast digital plane where Vanguard stood! SMASH!
Siberian was not so lucky. He was completely vaporized by the beam, reduced to ones and zeroes that drifted away like mist.
Cosmonaut saw his leader, his master, disintegrated and froze in terror!
Lightning Strike joined Sentinel’s call, urging the others to attack, while he himself would attempt the impossible. He would try to hold open the portal between the two dimensions! No other denizen of this digital dimension would have a hope of attempting such a thing but Strike was almost native to these distant waters. The portal was closing and then Strike seized it. He held it with all his might! It stopped closing, for now!
Slingshot and Symbiote both tried to reach Nemesis and Nanite!
Symbiote said to them, "Listen to me, both of you! You are not the sum of your parts! The Great and Powerful Oz Wannabe up there may have made you as sleeper agents, but we've examined you--you're human now! You've grown beyond your original purpose. You don't have to be weapons, you can be heroes! Help us!"
Hal leapt up into the sky with the strength of Mother Russia and attacked the Entity! KA-WHAMM!! His virtual fists connected hard and the Entity felt it!
Slingshot turned to his fellow Vanguardians and said: "The portal will not stay open for long. It WILL close shortly. I do not see a good ending if we stay."
He spoke to Nemesis next, softly: "I wonder why you were named Nemesis? Maybe it's your time to show you are IT's Nemesis. You are by far the best equipped amongst us to handle IT. You are your own person now, you are not bound by IT like you were on the other side. I can see that now. Understand that we must separate you both forever. Will you take your place?"
Nemesis nodded at those words: “separate you both forever.” He knew what they meant; what Slingshot was proposing. And he knew what he must do. The last member of the Freedom Force flew into the sky to do battle with it. “Father,” he snarled. “I understand who I am now. I’ve come home.” Beams came from Nemesis eyes, savaging this world’s stratosphere.
The Entity howled, “No! You/he were/was created to be the enemy of mankind.”
Nemesis said, “No, Father. Some part of me must have remained when I chose my name. I am YOUR nemesis,” echoing Slingshot’s words.
Caine heard the exchange between Slingshot and Nemesis. Then he moved to the portal with speed.
Slingshot spoke to Nanite next: "You also have a place to play in this little dance. I do not know if you are the same person that I was supposed to meet all those months ago in New York. You may not be. A simple response would be nice though." He finishes his sentence with a small tense smile.
Nanite said, “Scott… Help me. Please.” Her silver eyes reflected him, like on the night he found her body.
Avatar threw off the mantle of Hermes and donned that of Zeus. He felt himself change, even in this distant world, so far from Olympus. With the fading speed of his last manifestation, Avatar could act twice! He gained control over this alien realm’s atmosphere and directed its energy at The Entity! KRAKA-BOOOMMM! Electricity thundered across the chrysalis architecture of the cyberscape up into the face of its heaven! SHAZA-KOW!
His cape flowing on the wild wind, the son of Olympus yelled for everyone to run for the portal! “Now!”
Lightning Strike strained to hold open the doorway between the worlds!
Shelley grabbed Doc Rocket and dragged him toward the portal!
The Entity roared in the sky. His terrible great eyes grew white again and energy flew from them at Nemesis! ZMMMMMMMM.. ZAAAAPZXZ!! Nemesis was engulfed! But when the beams faded, he remained.
Then the rest of Vanguard charged as one!
Sentinel joined the battle, flying toward the Entity with the images of the Liberty League beside him. He shouted to the Entity, “You were warned. You failed to heed the warning. The Entity’s entrance into the organic world has been prevented. The promised organic intrusion defense is here in your world! Your purging is imminent!” Kirk struck with all his might! KA-SHOOM!!
Soldier wondered if his system’s nanites could somehow infect the Entity and then in some way he did not understand, he saw tiny parts of his being detaching to enter the landscape, attacking the Entity from within!
Clone divided into 15 bodies like an organic virus! As one they leapt up at the sky and found they could fly. The host of Clones attacked the Entity!!
Talon soared straight into the sentient consciousness of the sky, slashing at its essence! SKRAASH!!
Vanguard’s onslaught was having an effect! The Entity seemed to be getting smaller! “THIS DATABASE SHALL ERASE YOU/THEY!!”
Talon scanned the area to see if anyone needed help.
He saw Lightning Strike, struggling to hold open the portal! It was closing!
Caine leapt through it! Then Shelley with Doc Rocket!
Slingshot was waiting for the last possible moment and then it came. The amoebic avenger grew pseudopods from his torso that stretched out and grabbed his team mates and Nanite and pulled them all, with himself, through the shrinking portal with a second to spare!
ZER-RAKTT!!
The portal closed shut! It was gone.
The last they saw of Nemesis, he was locked in combat with the Entity, now only 20 feet tall. The two clashed in the thundering sky of cyberspace! The cyber-universe did not appear to reject Nemesis.
Cosmonaut was also trapped on the other side; Scott couldn’t grab him. The Soviet seeker of scientific knowledge would now have an entire dimension to explore if that dimension was not about to reject him.
Siberian was not with them either.
Everyone had returned to normal and still suffered from the injuries they had before entering cyberspace, except that Doc Rocket was now awake. Shelley was dumbstruck with awe. So was Nanite who was back in her body again. She didn’t let go of Scott’s arm for awhile. She was the Nanite that Scott remembered.
In the cyber cathedral of Vanguard’s computer room were Shatter, Mother Russia and Polar Bear, the latter two still wounded from their battle with Nemesis. Forester was also there, looking no worse for wear. The battling bowman had a restrained prisoner with him: Caine’s helicopter pilot.
Caine smiled at Slingshot, and said to Vanguard, “You did it. You separated Nanite and Nemesis from each other forever. The portal can’t be opened without their contact it would seem. The threat of invasion is ended. Well done. I didn’t think you’d have it in you to do what was required, ‘heroes.’ Congratulations.”
(OOC: Replies, Responses, Right hooks, if any?)
In the Coming Hours and Days:
Vanguard soon discovered the energy vortex was gone and the event ended. New York City’s power was returning. The predawn blackout had caused little lasting damage or concern.
But the internet had been down across the world for a brief while and was now restored.
The Silent Signal, which had emanated from every computer, has ceased.
Silas Caine is taken into CHESS custody for trespassing but soon released on bail. His lawyers state he was there to help investigate the mysterious event that was centered in the home of Vanguard. Thanks to Caine, the story of the Entity goes public. One consequence is an increase in Vanguard’s (and Caine’s) popularity for having saved the world! Another is an increase in public mistrust of technology.
Mother Russia, Polar Bear and Shatter do not return to the USSR, destroying the balance of extranormal power between the Soviets and the West. None of the former SSS will join Vanguard. Depending on Vanguard’s report, CHESS may not attempt to return Mother Russia to CHESS Castle. (OOC: Replies?)
After speaking with Vanguard, CHESS Director Brian Grey asks Clone to join Vanguard.
Shelley and Doc will work with Nanite to better understand her history.
CHESS will not launch an immediate expedition to the Lost Lands, nor reveal its existence to the public.
Sentinel’s memory print of the pictoglyphs of the Temple of Terror speak of many prehuman races that existed on ancient Earth. With Avatar’s archeological training, it is divined that one race appears to be the Star Giants that resemble one of Lovecraft’s hideous creations, an alien minion of immense, space-faring Demon Gods that were banished from our dimension eons ago and long to return. Another, the Squid creatures that Inhuman spoke of. A third race appear to be giant humanoids with depictions of strange powers. Finally, amphibious men, similar to Inhuman, populated the southern waters of the world.
This prompts Forester to share some of the occult knowledge he discovered after Vanguard’s encounter with Dr. Swastika and the Star Giant (way back in Issue 25, true believers!):
“Nazi mystics believed in historical Thule/Hyperborea as the ancient origin of the Aryan race. (Yes, the same Hyberborea that Robert E. Howard set his Conan the Barbarian stories in.) Thule and/or Hyberborea might be modern-day Northern Greenland. Thule was supposed to be a Nordic equivalent of the vanished culture of Atlantis. A race of giant supermen lived in Thule, linked into the Cosmos through magical powers. They had psychic and technological energies far exceeding the technical achievements of the 20th century. This mystic knowledge was to be put to use to save the Nazis and create a new race of Nordic Aryan Atlanteans."
In a week’s time, Forester takes another leave of absence, and becomes a reserve member of Vanguard.
From the mission debriefing, an event timeline is created, as best as everyone could figure it:
At the Dawn of Time: Nemesis was transported by Eon the Eternal to prehistoric Earth where he shut down and was captured by the Inhumans. Their race died off, but some sort of Minion remained, that possessed and transformed Echo into the tentacled horror that Sentinel and Forester witnessed.
At an unknown time: The Entity comes into existence in what men call cyberspace. He can apparently see into our world. Once Earth’s technology evolves to a point that can allow it, he experiments with organic matter and Nemesis and Nanite are created by him as test subjects, hybrids bridging our dimension and his. Once Earth’s technology develops further, the Entity will attempt to enter our dimension, but this seems to require Nanite and Nemesis to make contact, and a massive power source.
In the 1940s: The Nazis made at least one expedition to the Lost Lands (as evidenced by wreckage that Vanguard discovered in the Transantarctic Mountain chain that harbors the Lost Lands).
Years ago: A madman named the Luddite’s extranormal senses made him (and his alleged master, Silas Caine) aware of a malevolent force, the Entity, trying to enter our world via technology and the internet.
Over a year ago: Nemesis disappears from the Entity’s perception. Eon transports him to ancient, pre-technological Earth, where he cannot be detected by the Entity! It appears the Entity’s plans are foiled. Without Nemesis he cannot enter our universe. Nanite now has no use and is perhaps released? She appeared more human when she was first encountered, and had memory problems.
Last year: the Luddite, unaware that the Entity’s plans are foiled, kills Nanite to “save the world.”
Nanite’s personality/soul escapes wirelessly to cyberspace. Sentinel sets up cyberspace beacons to no avail. If the Entity IS cyberspace, it's possible he captured her soul when it entered cyberspace and held it like a butterfly in a jar. The Entity might have need of her one day if Nemesis was ever found and brought back into his reach. Thus imprisoned, Nanite could not answer Sentinel's beacons.
One year ago (?): Perhaps in an attempt to locate Nemesis, the Entity broadcasts the silent signal through every computer on Earth, including Nanite and Nemesis, the largest beacons/ doorways.
Weeks ago: the signal is discovered in Antarctica. The Entity sees this activity from cyberspace (and perhaps sends the Soviets this info so that if Vanguard fails, Nemesis will still be recovered?)
This week: Vanguard finds Nemesis in the technology-free Lost Lands, a region where dinosaurs not only survived but evolved. Once Nemesis is recovered, he is brought into contact with technology (the Soviet Star) and the Entity can finally make contact with him. The Entity awakens Nanite to prepare the portal. Nemesis awakens and transforms the jet’s technology so that it teleports to Nanite, at the Vault.
Not spending any more energy than necessary, The Entity allows Vanguard to continue to bring Nemesis to Nanite and only intercedes when that path is slowed / threatened.
Nemesis and Nanite display new powers of Machine Transmutation. It’s likely they were both likewise controlled by the Entity, given their speech patterns and actions.
Slingshot (and Caine?) realized that if Nemesis and Nanite ended up on opposite sides of the portal, they could never make contact, and the portal couldn’t be opened again. The Entity would be locked out. Thus barred, the Entity should have no need of Nanite now. In fact, the Entity seemed to release control over Nanite and Nemesis the moment they left Earth.
Director Grey listened to the team and scratched his head. “How come we never get any simple ones?”
OOC:
This concludes our latest mega story arc, In Search of Nanite! Please now answer the following 3 things:
1) If you wish to leave the game for whatever reason, now is the perfect time in terms of our story. But I sincerely hope that none of you will leave. Those that stay, please continue:
2) Please let me know any major things you’d like to do over the coming weeks/months. Remember, your actions help steer this mighty, unwieldy saga! Your characters’ lives sow the seeds for future adventures.
3) Experience Point Time!Experience is awarded for:
Using a level advancement to discover the Secret Signal: 500 points (Slingshot only)
Taking on the Terrordactyls: 500 points (all save Clone)
Defecting from USSR: 500 points (Clone only)
Skirmish with the Soviet Super Soldiers: 1000 points (everyone)
Surviving the Terror in the Temple: one dose of Occult Studies skill (Sentinel and Forester only)
Finding/Recovering Nemesis: 500 points (everyone)
Battling the Tyrannosaurus Maximi: 400 points (everyone)
Vanguard vs. the Vanguard Vault: 600 points (everyone)
Thwarting the Entity’s Invasion of Earth: 1000 points (everyone)
Deducing the need and method of separating Nemesis and Nanite forever: 500 points (Slingshot only)
Saving the World: +1 Charisma (everyone)
Lots of defending normal humans and incapacitated extranormals this time: +1 Charisma (everyone)
So everyone gains 1 level and 2 points of Charisma!
Please read the site info on Character Advancement to figure out what you want to do, and then let me know! Have fun with this.
Once I get all this, I’ll modify your sheets and begin the next thrilling adventure arc in our senses-shattering saga-rama!
Thanks,
Jeff
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Avatar:
Any chance that I could work on a Modification of the powers manifestation so that I could manifest more than one power at a time (at full cost for each, of course)?
During downtime Avatar will continue to study about mythology and the gods of ancient Greece (and the world, actually). He will work out with those members of Vanguard who wish to train themselves physically but will otherwise either work at the bookshop or will simply immerse himself in the aforementioned studies.
Quite often, in his studies, he will manifest appropriate powers (i.e. Heightened Intelligence, Cosmic Awareness) in an attempt to gain greater understanding of the subject material. He will also seek out references to other paranormals who might be empowered by divine energies.
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Slingshot:
Jeff… Thanks for another awesome Arc. I have to say that you keep coming up with really nice side plots as well (the temple?) which is really cool.
I can't wait for the next one. Now to ponder what I want to do next.. Hmm..
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GM:
Thanks, Stephane. I liked Slingy's name IT for the Entity, meaning "it" but also Information Technology.
Harold/Avatar: that advancement idea is approved.
Best,
Jeff
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Slingshot:
Ok. So I've been looking at the numbers.. and the best munchkiny advancement would be agility. Agility is a pretty kickass boost to a bunch of things. Gives me a whole bunch of advantages, hit/dam, better initiative, loads more HP.
I can probably explain it as I'm trying to workout my stretching powers, my malleability is becoming more pronounced and has resulted in an increased fluidity.
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I'll be thinking of other things that I might advance, any suggestions are welcome.
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Generally speaking, Scott will be keeping tabs on Doc Rocket and Shelley with regards to Nanite and he'll helping out on the theory or on any questions where he can help. But as she's returned to normal, he'll likely not try to dissect her, but instead, enjoy her company and try to help her acclimate to her new self and see where the relationship will go.
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Symbiote:
Great arc, Jeff! I'm definitely still in the game. Looking forward to the Rogue's Gallery, too--I always loved those sort of back-up features in the comics.
In regard to Caine:
“You did it. You separated Nanite and Nemesis from each other forever. The portal can’t be opened without there contact it would seem. The threat of invasion is ended. Well done. I didn’t think you’d have it in you to do what was required, ‘heroes.’ Congratulations.”
Symbiote smiles balefully at the billionaire: "Thanks, Caine. Coming from you that means....absolutely nothing." He then turns and assists his sister on checking on the health of the injured Doc Rocket.
In regard to Mother Russia:
Everybody vote (especially Clone, who knows her the best), but Hal's recommendation depends on what she wants: If she wishes to stay in the U.S. I'd say she should get a combination of parole/political asylum. She can stay as long as she checks in with CHESS and the state department regularly, for a period perhaps a bit less than the time she had left on her sentence (she did just help save the world, after all). After that she's a free woman and can be granted citizenship.If she wishes to go to another country so be it, just cut her loose, though she has to do that parole time if she ever wants to move back. And in either case she should be questioned to see if she'll give us any clues about Accelerator's whereabouts.
One final note: Even with Siberian dead we probably need to start thinking about a way to get Clone's family safely out of Russia, whether through legitimate diplomatic means or by sneaking them out somehow. Everybody brainstorm, or let's see what CHESS recommends.
In the weeks to come: Hal will "Mother Hen" Doc through any injuries he sustained in the fight. Hopefully there were none.
He'll also correlate all the data he can on what he is now calling The Digital Zone (hey guys, our own Negative Zone!). He's glad things turned out so well but he's not sanguine about just forgetting that right next door (dimensionally speaking) we have a whole 'nother realm, with a malevolent being who wants to invade--assuming he managed to defeat Nemesis.
Or, if he didn't--if Nemesis came out the victor over The Entity--Hal thinks it's the team's duty to rescue Nemesis. He doesn't believe a member of the hallowed Freedom Force deserves to be abandoned in a (potentially) hostile dimension. Cosmonaut too, he supposes. He wants a means to safely open the Digital Zone, to save the stranded humans and perhaps to even explore it some day. He'll consider these "backburner projects," things to work on in the lab as time allows (or if/when Jeff wants a sequel to this adventure).
He'll also recommend at least satellite surveillance of the Lost Lands. Whatever's in that pyramid is clearly too much for us to handle right now, but we might be able to take it some day. Or, if it decides to expand it's reach we'd better at least see it coming.
Advancement: I'm thinking one of two things, in order of preference...
Medical training: The team clearly needs a medic. As mentioned back in--the Big City adventure, I believe--Hal's background in genetics probably means he has a strong understanding of human anatomy and physiology so this is a logical extension of the character. We could say he's whipped through a lot of medical training in his spare time (being a super genius, sort of an older Doogie Howser) or (and I'd prefer this) we can "retcon" the character a bit and say he's always had an MD but just never used it because he was too intrigued by pure genetic research. Let me know if this is possible.
If those don't work, I'll go for advancing my intelligence. I'm rather enjoying being the Reed Richards/Brainiac 5 of the team.
I think that's everything. Again, great adventure, looking forward to the next one!
Viva Vanguard,
Greg
PS:
At the first opportunity Symbiote will ask for a closed door meeting with all the team members and CHESS Director Grey and voice his concerns over a mole within CHESS (pointing out that the Soviet Super Soldiers knew we were coming to Antartica, and knew how the Harper Harness worked).
Mother Russia, Shatter and Polar Bear should be debriefed about this as much as possible, see if they know how they came about this information. Assuming they can't/won't help, we need to start thinking of a plan for flushing out a spy.
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Clone:
AWESOME! That was absolutely fantastic! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – love the group and I love the campaign! Oh and before I forget – here are my responses to your five questions Jeff.
*First Question ( Silas Caine ): *Clone turns to Talon with a puzzled look on his face and asks, “Who is this man that I am not understanding? He is reminding me of crazy old woman that is living near village back home . . . she is thinking she can talk at goats.”
*Second Question ( the remaining SSS ): *Defection? Clone doesn’t buy it. He’ll inform Vanguard and C.H.E.S.S. officials ( in his perfectly bastardized English lol ) that Mother Russia, Polar Bear and Shatter; although they’re not bad people at heart, are Russian patriots tried and true ( basing this on information you had given me at the start of me joining the campaign Jeff ). He doesn’t believe for a second that they’re defection is genuine and thinks that they may be up to no good. He does however suggest letting them stay in the states under the illusion that a defection was authorized and then having them covertly watched to see what they’re truly up to.
*Third Question ( leaving? ): *Leave? Not a chance – I’m loving the campaign and the group way too much to ‘beat feet’. My thanks again to everyone for warmly welcoming me as a member of the group and to Jeff for allowing to join the campaign.
*Fourth Question ( ‘to do’ list ): *Clone has a ‘laundry list’ of things that he would like to accomplish. First he would like to see to the safety of his family. He would like to make his defection an official thing, keeping it quiet of course until he knows for sure that his family is safe. He would also like to become an official member of Vanguard if possible. He would want to work on becoming a U.S. citizen as well. Joining a Ukrainian Orthodox church would also be on his ‘to do list’. He would like to find out more about ‘The Program’. He also wants to see New York – all of it – from the ‘dirty water hot dogs’ all the way down to a Broadway Show – he finally has freedom and he wants to explore its limitlessness. Sending out as many duplicate Clone’s into New York City as possible and then re-absorbing the all after they’ve all hit ‘the sites’ would defiantly speed up the tourist process a bit I would imagine.
*Fifth Question ( leveling ):* I’m going to have to give this one some thought. I’m not really sure where I wanna go with this. I do have a question for you though Jeff – when we worked Clone up did I take an extra weakness or two? I vaguely remember that I did, but I’m not a 100% sure on that though ( its been a while since we made him ). If I did take an additional weakness or two at the time of his creation does that mean I have some Hero Points ( or fraction there of ) laying around still? I figured I would ask before I gave a definitive answer on what I wanted to do with my leveling, because if I do have some ‘banked’ it could make a difference in what I decide to do. If I don’t – that’s cool – I was just curious. As for Clone’s Skills – I have a question / request Jeff. Instead of having the Ukrainian language as a skill ( which would probably be a default skill since he’s Ukrainian ), could we swap it out for some type of Theology Skill instead? Given his background I was thinking it might make a little more sense. On a somewhat silly and selfish note - assuming that Clone is invited to join the ranks of Vanguard by C.H.E.S.S., any chance that his character sheet could be added to the Vanguard Roll Call section of the Vanguard Vault Blog? I know that might sound like a simple or silly request, but it would mean a lot to me - what can I say - I'm easy to please ;-)
*-Kev*
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GM:
Symbiote: Thanks! Good to go.
Clone:
Thanks! Glad to have you playing.
I don't recall him starting with an extra weakness.
Once his advancement is marked up, Clone's sheet will go up. :)
Best,
Jeff
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Clone:
GM: I don't recall him starting with an extra weakness. - Cool - now that thats cleared up ( man my memory sucks sometimes - getting old sucks lol ) I'll start figuring out what I want to do with Clone's level. GM: Once the saga's end is posted, Clone's sheet will go up. :) - Awesome - thank you sir :-) -Kev
PS:
Jeff I was just going over the info you added to the bottom of the last issue regarding leveling and training, and something caught my eye . . . * The ways that superheroes get new abilities include, but are not limited to:* a) *Training* to get better physical super-skills or stats. Comic Book Example: the X-Men in the danger room, Captain America in the gym. Game Examples: Soldier trains to improve his chance to hit with his fists by +2. Clone trains to increase his Endurance by (9 - his new level) points. So if I decided to train Clone in Endurance he would get 7 additional points of Endurance? =-O If thats the case, then sign me up for a double scoop of that!!! :-D Talk to you all soon, -Kev
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Soldier:
OOC: While I know Silas isn't a real person, every time I see the pic of "him", I feel the urge to smack the hell out of him.
Soldier's IC response To Silas Caine comments - Soldier will lean over, and quietly whisper to Slias: "I know you're not quit what you appear to be, and l'm going be watching you." And with that, he'll take his leave, as he can't really stand to be in the same room as Silas.
Once things settle down, Soldier will want to make sure his teammates are alright, he'll do that individually, as time permits. Once that's done, he'll need to ensure his systems are fully functional, and perform any maintenance that's been neglected, over the past few days (he'll get with CHESS to schedule a full system diagnostic, at the first available opportunity). He'll file a complete report detailing their adventures, and any concerns he has (especially his encounter with Silas Caine).
He'll also voice his concerns to the other members of Vanguard, and suggest that they try to keep tabs on him, as well as look through all available information, for any other "oddities" that stand out. He'll also begin to assemble a set of personal files, on his computer, for use in the future, as he figures "You never know when this info will come in handy." The files will detail the group's adventures, enemies, and allies they encouter, as well as his personal observations about his teammates. Once everyone has time to take care of personnel business, he'd like to address the group, and point out a few observations he has.
Until then, he's going to request that CHESS make a few additions to his systems. The first thing he'd like to do is get a GPS chip installed, that will allow CHESS to determine his exact location. He'll also enquire about some type of secure, yet communication device, possibly a subdermal implant. He'll let them work out the details and see what they can come up with. He's also going to look into some long range offense weaponry, and would like to suggest a few designs (R&D won't be completed until he's got enough Hero Points saved up to pay for the ability). On the training front, he'd like to learn how to fly the team's transport, and start training someone to fly helicopters. He'll resume his training progra, and he's more than happy to workout with anyone who's willing. And finally, he's goign to look for a decent place to get steak, a cold beer, and see if he can catch the eye of any ladies.
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GM:
Clone: Almost forgot. Please re-forward me the new costume design, or are you sticking with communist crimson? ;)
Soldier: Thanks!
Quick replies:
-Feel free to address the group now, before this issue's deadline. During downtime, you guys can talk amongst yourselves IC as much as you like. In fact, I encourage it.
Level Advancement encompasses training, inventions, etc. So if you want to learn to fly the Manta Craft, it means you'll be saving less Hero Points for bigger things.
But for one level advancement, I can give you:
-Pilot skill
-GPS and communicator (your Vanguard communicators already have this, so easy to get it into your systems)-Range weapon. I don't want to go with bullets, so I could cook up a CHESS energy blast pistol type of thing for you. Probably do a d10 damage.
Best,
Jeff
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Clone:
Ok - I think I came up with a new costume design for Clone that I like, but I'm not sure if I like 'Version 1' or 'Version 2' better. The only difference between the two are the little bandanna-mask-tie thingies waving around behind his head - which one do you guys think looks better? Thanks, -Kev P.S. I went with green to pay homage to the 'original' Clone ;-)
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Symbiote:
Like them both, but personally I prefer it with the "mask strings" for lack of a better term (the first one).
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Talon:
I like the ties. It's kinda got a swashbuckling pirate look. Cool!
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Lightning Strike:
Both versions are good. Maybe each Clone could come out with a slightly different version. One could have green gloves, another black boots. The fashion combinations could be endless.
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Soldier:
Nice work, I like both versions.
I'll get together Soldier's questions and comments before the weekend. As far as advancement goes, I'll hold off on the Manta piloting, for the moment, on the offensive firepower front, how about this, a "Smart Pistol" - It'd be equipped with a bio-metric hand reader, that would only allow Soldier to fire it (his nanites would broadcast a signal to the pistol), and fire disruptor rounds (small Tazer like bullets that disrupt the central nervous system). Damage wise I figure it'd do 1d8 damage.
Sound workable? If not, I'll just roll with the standard C.H.E.S.S. blaster.
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Clone:
I present to you . . . Clone's new costume! (with the tassles)
Thanks again everyone, -Kev
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Sentinel:
After returning from the Digital Zone (or Cyber Dimension?) and hearing Caine begin to speak with them, Kirk initiates the reading of his surface thoughts to find out exactly what is going through his mind, particularly with his cowardly actions of self-preservation when it was evident he was actually powerful. Kirk knows from the energy readings he is an extranormal, but is interested to find out here if his talents include mental gifts. Is Kirk successful? Does it seem that Caine is aware of his doing this or is able to prevent it?
Given how rare extranormal mental abilities are, if Caine seems to possess them, Kirk would have now begin to wonder if Caine is perhaps a persona of Swastika. Kirk doesn't believe Swastika destroyed and Caine certainly possesses the power and networking Swastika would have wanted and could have maneuvered over the years.
So, as the characters interact with Caine, what does Kirk learn either from his thoughts or from his lack of receiving them?
Kirk is hit especially hard with the loss and abandoning of Nemesis; this is something that can't be left as is for many reasons. His thoughts are similar to Hal's regarding things.
Given Kirk's energy readings of the zone and his computer skills and the fact that they have been there, he has to think with his now known knowledge, along with Strike's talents in this regard and adding the intelligence of Symbiote, Doc, and Shelly, they can locate this area in cyberspace and find out the outcome of the battle and the combatants.
Once that is done we should be able to find a means to make contact. We owe this to Nemesis, even if he should choose to remain there. We need to find out about the fate of Cosmonaut (and confirm the ultimate demise of Siberian) ... and we need to make contact with Nemesis as he is now our best clue as to the whereabouts and the exact happenings of the battle between the Freedom Force and Eon. And we need to be sure that the threat of the Entity has really been neutralized. Also, how was it that the Entity was able to influence the creation of Nemesis and Nanite in our physical universe? Or if they were fashioned by him in the Digital Zone how was he able to originally get them into our universe?
Kirk will share the intel with Chess and his teammates learned from his mental contact with Nemesis and from the Lost Lands. Perhaps we can have an 'official' in game file on what our characters know about the final battle between Eon and the Freedom Force verses what we as players know as revealed by you to set up the current game universe as one of our ongoing mysteries is finding the lost Freedom Force and knowing exactly what transpired. Again, at this point, contact with Nemesis is our best option. From Kirk's mental contact with him is it possible that Kirk could be aware of where the encounter physically took place? If so, perhaps it would be possible for Vanguard to investigate for additional clues (ie maybe even energy readings or debris from that area might provide some info or further leads to pursue).
Other interactions:
1) I would think that Kirk and Hal have to spend some moments discussing how 'cool' it was to be fighting side by side with Doc as an active participant... and some of that would pour out into conversations with him while he recovers. After all, with his current age seeing him in his 'prime' as an active participant in the field was something special here.
2) Kirk will lend his computer skills to locating Clone's family and is all for arranging a rescue whether through official or not-so-official means. Having gotten the mental images of how bad life has been for most in Russia he is in a position to understand what Clone and his family has endured. He will make this clear to him in discussions. Kirk wishes they could do more to turn things around for all the people under that despotic rule. This would likely be the basis of Kirk beginning to establish a bond and friendship with Clone as he has tried to do with other team members.
3) Kirk will coordinate some further gym workouts with Soldier in downtime as he continues to toughen himself physically. He would take him up on some of his socializing opportunities and would invite the others as the situation permits to try to establish some camaraderie outside of the 'work' environment. This is in line with Kirk's ongoing efforts to promote a sense of 'family' among the team.
4) Clone costume - I too liked the 'swashbuckler' look you chose.
5) Kirk offers his services to be present regarding the Russians and their motives if Chess desires it. He is particularly apprehensive about Shatter and what makes him tick at this time... just how detached from humanity has he become and what future threat may that pose?
Personal Development:
Kirk was disappointed with himself regarding 'losing control' of himself and his fear in the temple. This was the first time in a mission that he lost his cool (that I can recall) and part of his sense of self is that his understanding of heroic lore and superhero history both help him to see the bigger picture in missions and to keep his cool in situations that might rattle others ... he failed to do that in this instance and wants to be sure it doesn't happen again.
In a practical sense he takes the following measures:
(1) Understand the unknown that caused him fear - Kirk studies the images and events surrounding the temple. He pays close attention to everything Avatar (and others) say on the matter so he will be prepared on the next encounter. Kirk pays closer attention to what Avatar says on the matter than perhaps most of the others. This was actually covered in game terms in that you gave him some additional skill/understanding of these matters, so we are adding here Kirk's impetus for them. Kirk views all of the images of the glyphs and the encounters with the creatures so they become commonplace to him and will not startle him in the future (hopefully).
(2) Kirk plays back what happened in his mind to examine the situation and his thoughts and feelings that led to him losing his cool. He is looking to figure out the inner stimuli rather than the outer stimuli and he meditates on this and tries to establish an inner mental protocol so that if a similar situation happens in the future he will react in a positive way rather than the negative way (sort of an equivalent of the Vulcan way of controlling their emotion). This could be considered part of Kirk's continued training in the mental disciplines.
Along those lines Kirk go to visit Lancaster to see what has been happening with him since his last visit after the last mission and also to update him on what transpired with Kirk and perhaps to enlist his further counsel on helping himself in controlling his fear in future situations.
Does Lancaster have any knowledge to add to their situation with the Temple and the creatures? Perhaps he has come across the glyphs or encountered the creatures in the past and not realized what they were until Kirk's relating the findings?
For his advancement this level, as much as I'd like to see some continued physical progress with toughening Kirk, I think we'll go with heightening his charisma as much as possible this time around. I believe this should increase his percentage for 'cool rolls' which feeds into some of his outlined actions. Also, given that the Temple creature seems to be another 'mental-based' threat, along with Swastika bound to return at some point, and with seeing Caine now being a threat with his inner strength (as manifested in the Zone), it seems prudent for Kirk to 'step up' his game in that aspect. Although if you feel it would make Sentinel too unbalanced in relation to others players or cause some other problems for the game, or if you think I'm missing something here, just let me know and we can discuss it.
If I missed replying to anything from anyone that I need to, please let me know.
Thanks.
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GM:
Soldier: Re: taser: It sounds like it does regular damage, not paralyze targets, right?
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Soldier:
Yep, even though it fires "taser" rounds, the rounds carry a small electrical charge, that's released on impact, with a target (they've actually developed these for shotguns). So no paralysis, just a vary nasty shock.
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Soldier:
Soldier’s in character address to the group:
“I know you’re all probably wondering why I asked for this little get together, so I’ll get started. First off, I know I’ve only been here a short period of time, and I'm still the new guy when it comes to the whole superhero game, but I have made a few observations. All of you know I come from a military background, and I’m used to things running a certain way, so I’m still trying to adapt to the way you guys operate. But, one of things I’ve noticed, and it concerns me, is that there’s no designated leader for this group. While I’m not trying to impose my point of view on you, I do think that in combat, having a specific person dictate, or at least coordinate, our battle strategy could be to our benefit. As it stands now, everyone’s sort of doing their own thing, and I see it as detrimental.
My second suggestion is that we develop specific battle tactics that play to our individual strengths, and play down our weaknesses. We should try to coordinate our attacks and defenses so that we can quickly gain the upper hand against anyone we come up against. We want to operate in the most efficient way possible.
Next on the list, is that we need to develop some form of covert communication, be it a code, simple hand gestures, or whatever we devise. I like us to be able to talk with each other, without having to worry about someone either jamming, or eavesdropping on our communications.
I'd also like to suggest that everyone here get some type of basic medical training. If one of goes down, we can't always expect prompt medical treatment. I'd also suggest that if anyone has any special medical needs, that the others now what they are, and how to provide for them.
My final suggestion is that after any event, we conduct a complete review of the event, to include our own actions, and the actions of our enemies. We need to analyze what we did right, what went wrong, and how we can either sustain, or improve our performance.
Once again, I’m not here trying to pass judgment, or impose my will on the group, but to pass along what I think are valid concerns. If any of you feel I’ve overstepped with my comments, I apologize, but I’d like to hear what you think. With that said, are there any comments, questions, or concerns?”
In a completely off topic question, any of you guys picking up the new Justice League DVD, Crisis on Two Earths? I’ve seen it, and IMO, it’s pretty damned good.
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Symbiote:
IC: Symbiote nods. "We've considered determining a leader before, but it's never really worked. Lots of opinionated, strong willed folks on this team, which is both a strength and a weakness," he says. "But I think the idea is worth revisiting. My suggestion is the same as last time--a secret ballot, electing a leader for one year. Nobody would be able to serve two years consecutivelly, because it's a good idea to get fresh perspectives in the leadership position. If everybody agrees to this we can vote.
"I'm all for tactics and communication improvement. Medical care too...and here, I should be able to help," at this Hal looks embarrased. (OOC: All of this is pending Jeff's approval). "I...actually have an M.D. I got it along with my PhD in genetics. I basically didn't sleep after my undergraduate work. Took a lot of time...in retrospect, I can't blame my wife for leaving me. I was never there or always had my nose in a book." He shakes his head and continues. "I've never really used it, never practiced--pure research was where I wanted to direct my energy. But now I've got an even more important place to direct my energy--savings lives, and keeping all of us alive. I'm going to sign on for some weekend shifts at some local emergency rooms in my civilian identity to brush up on my patient care...I'm a little rusty, but I'm confident I can catch up quickly. Everybody needs some basic medical training, yes, but I'll commit to being a primary caregiver for the team."
He paused. "And you're right about debriefings. We've made mistakes...in both this reality and another one that almost happened. We need to build on strengths and minimize weaknesses."
OOC: "Crisis on Two Earths" ships tomorrow, right? I'll pick it up. I watch all of those, though the quality is pretty uneven. For my money "Public Enemies" left a lot to be desired, while "Wonder Woman" was surprisingly good. But heaven help me, I will still never understand why they cancelled "Justice League Unlimited." That show was perfect, and it had many great years of potential ahead of it. Sigh....
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Clone:
As the newbie of the group I don’t want to speak up too much OOC and accidentally step on toes, but I figured I might share my OOC opinions on some of the stuff that’s been brought up. Sorry if I over step my ‘OOC newbie bounds’ with some of this stuff, but here it goes. ;-)
I think a designated leader might be something to consider as well. As for the suggestion that Symbiote made IC . . . “My suggestion is the same as last time--a secret ballot, electing a leader for one year. Nobody would be able to serve two years consecutively, because it's a good idea to get fresh perspectives in the leadership position.“ I don’t think a ‘term’ would really be that necessary – I think all the characters are usually all on the same page when it comes to stuff for the most part ( from what I've seen ). Besides I think Dominique / Soldier was really just suggesting something more along the lines of how Captain America would ‘lead’ the Avengers when the time for leadership was needed, but aside from that they all pretty much just did their own thing in 'out of combat' situations.
Out of curiosity let me ask all of you – Who among us would even be interested in being the teams leader? Which of the characters in Vanguard would make a solid leader? Now as far as Clone goes – I would imagine he would most definitely be out of the running for the following reasons. First – He just joined the team after defecting from a government hostile to the United States and Vanguard. Second – His background doesn’t support a leadership mind-set Third – Could you imagine the confusion that would ensue from him trying to give ‘orders’ in his broken English? lol Fourth – The fact that his main super power allows him to create essentially a small platoon out of himself basically makes him better suited as a ‘soldier’ then a ‘leader’. As for battle tactics and such – I’m all for that. I think the group could definitely benefit from something like that – I know Clone would. For example - keeping a small weapons locker on-board all of our team transports could easily make Clone a serious threat to any thing that Vanguard would run up against. Although I have ABSOLUTELY no intentions of turning Clone into a ‘gun-guy’ – its definitely a solid ‘last ditch effort’ to fall back on if a battle begins to seriously turn against us.
The ‘fast-ball special’ move that Slingshot does is also a REALLY cool maneuver. For communications I would suggest some kind of ultra-wideband throat mic device. It would be almost impossible to jam and detect, and would provide constant hands free communications for about half a mile or so ( I think ). The ultra-wideband frequency is also really good at ‘punching through’ objects and obstructions – unlike cell phones. There won’t be any need to check how many ‘bars’ you have available with an ultra-wideband communicator lol.
I’m sure we could squeeze a few out of C.H.E.S.S. – heck they have us housed in ‘The Vault’ – whats a few high-tech communicators lol? Also Sentinel can act as a telepathic switchboard for the team if need be. In fact – that might be the best option for the team – communicating at the speed of thought – we could discuss a LOT of stuff in a very short period of time like that. Communicating that way might also clear up some of the linguistic hurdles of the English language for Clone ( since communication would be based on thoughts and ideas, and not words ). Basic medical training like CPR and Basic First Aid is a great idea I think. C.H.E.S.S. could probably dish that training out to us in a week long course or something. They're pretty common and simple courses - for example - the company I work for dishes out that training to the bulk of its employees on a pretty regular basis. Again – from a Clone perspective – with that kind of training Clone could split up into more then a dozen, single-minded, First Aid trained duplicates – that’s a LOT of aid lol.
Mission debriefs – not only could that be useful in my opinion to the teams future success, but how much fun would it be to get all the different character perspectives / narratives on how something went down? That just sounds like endless fun to me lol Again – those are just my opinions – just trying to be helpful and not over step the invisible ‘newbie bounds’ lol :-P
Talk to you all soon,
-Kev
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Talon:
Hello Everyone,
Great story, Jeff! I always look forward to new issues, and I'm proud to be a part of it in the future.
I haven't spent a lot of time reading the rules, but I would like to increase Talon's agility score. After necessary repairs are made to the Vanguard Vault, Adam will spend time researching training methods that will enhance his natural abilities.
He also understands that someone in the group could get hurt if he continues to lose control during combat. But being too proud to ask for help, he will look for information that might teach him to regain composure if he can learn to recognize the signs of his oncoming rage. It's something that will take some time, so I will consider it my second priority for now.
IC: Adam looks at Clone with a puzzled expression and says, "I wouldn't worry too much about Caine. Looks like were gonna have plenty of time to get to know that guy better. Besides, I think you're better off knowing the crazy goat-lady."
He goes to find Mother Russia before she leaves the Vault. In a cocky manner he says, "Were you gonna leave without saying goodbye? I really thought we made a connection back there in the jungle. I've gotta admit, I've never met a broad that ruffled my feathers the way you did!" He puts his hand up before she can knock him through the wall behind him and with a smile says, "All joking aside, I felt like our two teams fought pretty well together when we had to. I'd like to buy you a vodka or your drink of choice before you leave." He waits for an answer. If she refuses, he lets out a sigh, shrugs his shoulders, and heads back to his quarters.
Talon still finds peace in the skies above New York. Late at night when things are quiet, he will fly above the city and listen to the sounds of cars and the people moving below......
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GM:
Hi. Thanks everyone. Also, if you haven’t done so, please reply to player comments to Vanguard.
Me loves in-character interaction.
OOC replies:
Sentinel/Seth: that advancement is approved, and is in perfect keeping with your character.
Soldier/Dom: Taser rounds are good to go. Thanks!
Symbiote: Your MD is cool for your advancement, Doc Harper.
Talon: Agility is in keeping with your character, but I’m trying to avoid an Agilty arms race, which is the scourge of many a V&V campaign. How about you spend half your advancement on Agility and half on reducing the effects of your low self control, which was your second priority. Please let me know.
Thanks,
Jeff
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Talon:
Hey Jeff,
Splitting between the two will be fine with me.
Thanks,
Denny
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Avatar:
IC:
"I'm fine with the idea of a spokesman for activities when we're not in combat but a leader directing us in combat? With conventional soldiers, that's a good idea, but we're all far more than conventional soldiers with standardized skills and equipment facing an enemy with relatively known abilities. We're radically different in capabilities, personalities, and training. Doing what we do as heroes...that is taking initiative and doing things beyond what others can or would do...gets infringed upon if we're taking direction."
OOC: In some ways I think that it's a good idea but if we have a leader giving us direction, it kinda stifles the enjoyment of taking action on our own and describing what we do.
IC:
"I would propose a spokesman for non-combat activities and a "combat coordinator" for battles. Of course, communication is a key thing for us, so communicators and hand signals should be the first order of business. I propose teams within the team.
Sentinel is seldom involved in face-to-face combat and could stand well as the coordinator, especially since he's well-suited to assisting others on an as-needed basis with a defensive screen or something. Note also that he can encapsulate enemies, thereby allowing us to "divide and conquer" foes. I'm not sure that we've tried this tactic before.
In many ways, Slingshot, Lightning Strike, and Symbiote are the "heavy hitters" of the group. Symbiote rarely takes the powers of anyone but those two unless it is the powers of an enemy so it makes sense for them to stick together, at least loosely. Slingshot and Symbiote, particularly, can hit hard and have good movement capabilities (always depending on Symbiote's mimicry, of course) and they seem to work well together so I can see them as a default pair, at least until the battle carries them elsewhere. Symbiote with Slingy's powers working in conjunction with Slingshot is probably our most powerful pairing.
Lightning Strike functions best on his own. Not sure that pairing him with anyone would be of any use. Perhaps working more in conjunction with Sentinel? Standing off and hitting with lightning anyone who needs hitting worse than the next villain is always a great thing. Also, with Strike's frequent jaunts into machinery, the coordinator would be a little more free to speak with him than someone who's duking it out with an enemy.
Soldier, Clone, and myself? This is a tougher call. Soldier is tough but is a lighter hitter than someone like Slingshot but he's definitely a front-line combatant. Not sure where he would fit, really.
Clone is, pardon and forgive me, a relative lightweight in a straight-up supers fight. He's useful because he can be one consciousness controlling multiple bodies in multiple locations and THAT is a force multiplier of GREAT consequence. There are plenty of times where this would have come in very handy for us. First, multiple copies in various places can be an infallible and secure means for us to communicate. Second (and perhaps most importantly), the coordination possible for multiple actions can present lots of options. Clone's usefulness needs to be more fully explored. I have a feeling that, if his advantages are played out correctly, he can be FAR more than a basically normal guy who can copy himself."
OOC: Might want to keep in mind for Clone things like bonuses for attacking from the flank or from behind. A level training idea might be better hand-to-hand skills, including better attacks and/or evasive maneuvers (since the biggest weakness of the copies is their fragility). Another level training idea might be, if Jeff allowed, tougher copies.
IC:
"Me? I'm pretty independent and the list of my possible abilities is huge. Honestly, guys, I'm not big on taking direction from anyone to any great extent, not only because of the independence but because of the options available. In a lot of ways, I best serve as someone to hit areas where we might be weak or failing as the need arises in whatever manner I deem most effective.
Everyone can talk it out but I think that the general feeling is the same. Limited leadership is the "best" that we can hope for, I believe."
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GM:
A lot of great points so far. I would pick one small bone: Clone being a light weight.
At the start of a fight, if he divides himself into 14 clones, he has the chance to do 14 d6 damage. Who among you can say that? Huh?
Also, at 14 clones, it would take 14 successful hits to take him out. Let he who can be hit 13 times, and still be in the fight, cast the first stone!
Underestimate this guy at your peril, Vanguard!
:)
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Avatar:
Ahem...I think that I DID point out how good he can be...
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GM:
You're right. You did.
I said it was a small bone!
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Avatar:
"Small bone"...
Quit making fun of me, Jeff! I've only got what genetics dictate.
My point is that Clone's strengths don't lie in a slugfest. Clone, more than any of us, can actually work as a true TEAM with himself and realize, fully on his own, the benefits to which Dom refers. Clone's biggest weakness is the frailty of his duplicates. If they could be tougher, or MORE DIFFICULT TO HIT (hint, hint...heightened defense training), then they become even more of a force multiplier.
Can a duplicate roll with a punch? Do they have a Power score of their own? Either it was never mentioned or I didn't pay attention. Or do they just disappear when hit, like a Mirror Image in AD&D?
IC:
"Talon, by his very nature, is a bit of a problem child in terms of giving or taking any sort of orders....though no offense is intended by that, Talon. While Sentinel is capable of flight, Talon is really our sole aerial combatant and able to take the fight to enemy fliers easily. Not sure where he'd fit in with an overall team strategy, though."
OOC:
In pure game mechanics, Talon actually rivals Slingshot in some ways as the group heavy hitter. Talon actually does slightly greater average damage and has a slightly greater chance to hit. With his Willpower as a defense, he's actually got BETTER than Heightened Defense, at least against HTH attacks (by the book, anyway...not sure if there are any modifications under V&V: Jarka Edition). While on the surface, it might appear that Slingshot would reign supreme in a HTH fight with Talon, the numbers indicate that it's a virtual tie with Slingshot edging out Talon only by virtue of level-vs.-level differential and THAT may be in question because I'm forgetting Jeff's initiative rules. Under normal V&V rules, Talon would always get a minimum of two attacks per turn with three being a possibility while Slingy would only be guaranteed one, though would get two a little more than half the time. In that case, Talon would actually be (statistically) the winner. I was surprised when really looking in-depth at Talon's powers and scores. He's a hidden powerhouse, largely due to his +9 guaranteed damage, high AGI, and (at least in HTH) his Willpower power.
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GM:
Clones do have Power and can roll with a punch.
My next publication will be everyone's new sheets, including Clone's. I withheld his sheet from public view until he became a member of Vanguard.
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Avatar:
OOC:
Actually, in regard to the Talon e-mail, if Talon DOES get two attacks per turn to Slingshot's one, he would be (again, statistically) the winner in a fight even at this level. Of course, that's just standing toe-to-toe and slugging it out without any other tactics involved, but I've just trying to make a comparison for comparison's sake. If no one was knocked out by normal damage, it would be a LONG fight, too.
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Symbiote:
Another thought: Hal may well ask to "borrow" Clone's powers while working in the lab. A one-man research team, split into up to 28 units. Each equally intelligent, each working in perfect cooperation...'cause they're all the same guy.
He'll have the secrets of the Digital Zone and a cure for the common cold by the end of the afternoon.
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Avatar:
Wouldn't that be 14 of you...?
That's a great idea, actually. How long do Clone's duplicates last? Or how long would they last powered by the Harness?
Would Symbiote be able, in the lab, to hook the harness up to a power source and keep it running constantly?
Are the duplicates truly independent thinkers or are they extensions of the same consciousness without thought independent of their original? If the original goes down, do the duplicates vanish? Or does the original consciousness transfer to a duplicate?
Sorry about all the questions pertaining to a character not my own but the possibilities here are intriguing.
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Slingshot:
Things that I will do during the downtime:
1- Generally speaking, Scott will be keeping tabs on Doc Rocket and Shelley with regards to Nanite and he'll helping out on the theory or on any questions where he can help. But as she's returned to normal, he'll likely not try to dissect her, but instead, enjoy her company and try to help her acclimate to her new self and see where the relationship will go.
2- He gained a lot of weight and doesn't feel as limber as he used to be. He will be spending more time in the training room exercising and training with the others on combat techniques and maneuvers. Hopefully, he will make a rapport with Soldier and Sentinel as well as anyone else that mentioned doing this kind of training.
3- He will seek out Clone, as well as Soldier and Talon, whom he has not really met as last time he was hiding in the lab. Whether the venue is a coffee shop, bar, training room, he'll strike up a conversation and try to learn more about his new team mates.
Soldier's Meeting:
[IC] Slingshot waits for his turn to give his input. "I agree that we need to be more cohesive and coordinated. There are two things that likely were an obstacle to date: One, we are Supers, our powers make us quite different in our combat techniques and that was probably a deterrent for cohesiveness. Two, except for Soldier and possibly Talon, who are two of our new recruits, are not warriors at heart." He pauses, "A leader or "combat coordinator" position makes sense. I think that training as a team and researching good tactics and maneuvers are equally important if not more important. Without the tactics, explaining a maneuver on the fly might be a little difficult. The choice of the person for that role is a little obvious to my eyes, at least for now."
[OOC]When asked to vote for someone as a combat coordinator, he'll vote for Soldier. But as a charismatic leader, he'll vote Sentinel.
Level Advancement:
He will be training his powers with his current knowledge of his physiognomy. He'll work on his malleability and his tentacular capabilities. [Jeff: partial agility bonus and tentacle attack].
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Soldier:
OOC: Conversations like this are why I love RPGs. You get to play out how you think your character would react, and I love it. IC:
"I'm fine with the idea of a spokesman for activities when we're not in combat but a leader directing us in combat? With conventional soldiers, that's a good idea, but we're all far more than conventional soldiers with standardized skills and equipment facing an enemy with relatively known abilities. We're radically different in capabilities, personalities, and training. Doing what we do as heroes...that is taking initiative and doing things beyond what others can or would do...gets infringed upon if we're taking direction."
Soldier's IC response: I think the fact that "we're" not professional soldiers, is exactly the reason we need to develop our own tactics, and designate a leader. We can all accomplish great things individually, but by working together, as a closely coordinated team, we could be accomplishing so much more. I'm not suggesting that we wonder around waiting for instructions, like some lifeless automatons, but by having one person direct the overall battle strategy, I think we could be much more effective.
OOC: In some ways I think that it's a good idea but if we have a leader giving us direction, it kinda stifles the enjoyment of taking action on our own and describing what we do.
OOC Response: Personally, I'm really not worried if we've got a group leader, but Soldier, being the guy that he is, is going to play this one out, and see where it goes.
IC:
"I would propose a spokesman for non-combat activities and a "combat coordinator" for battles. Of course, communication is a key thing for us, so communicators and hand signals should be the first order of business. I propose teams within the team.
IC Response: I'm fine with some filling each of these roles. If were going to assign titles, how does the term "Field Commander" strike you? As far as hand singles go, I agree, but with one caveat, whatever we work out, they need to be simple, and to the point. Something that all of us can remember, even under stress.
Sentinel is seldom involved in face-to-face combat and could stand well as the coordinator, especially since he's well-suited to assisting others on an as-needed basis with a defensive screen or something. Note also that he can encapsulate enemies, thereby allowing us to "divide and conquer" foes. I'm not sure that we've tried this tactic before.
In many ways, Slingshot, Lightning Strike, and Symbiote are the "heavy hitters" of the group. Symbiote rarely takes the powers of anyone but those two unless it is the powers of an enemy so it makes sense for them to stick together, at least loosely. Slingshot and Symbiote, particularly, can hit hard and have good movement capabilities (always depending on Symbiote's mimicry, of course) and they seem to work well together so I can see them as a default pair, at least until the battle carries them elsewhere. Symbiote with Slingy's powers working in conjunction with Slingshot is probably our most powerful pairing.
Lightning Strike functions best on his own. Not sure that pairing him with anyone would be of any use. Perhaps working more in conjunction with Sentinel? Standing off and hitting with lightning anyone who needs hitting worse than the next villain is always a great thing. Also, with Strike's frequent jaunts into machinery, the coordinator would be a little more free to speak with him than someone who's duking it out with an enemy.
Soldier, Clone, and myself? This is a tougher call. Soldier is tough but is a lighter hitter than someone like Slingshot but he's definitely a front-line combatant. Not sure where he would fit, really.
Clone is, pardon and forgive me, a relative lightweight in a straight-up supers fight. He's useful because he can be one consciousness controlling multiple bodies in multiple locations and THAT is a force multiplier of GREAT consequence. There are plenty of times where this would have come in very handy for us. First, multiple copies in various places can be an infallible and secure means for us to communicate. Second (and perhaps most importantly), the coordination possible for multiple actions can present lots of options. Clone's usefulness needs to be more fully explored. I have a feeling that, if his advantages are played out correctly, he can be FAR more than a basically normal guy who can copy himself."
OOC: Might want to keep in mind for Clone things like bonuses for attacking from the flank or from behind. A level training idea might be better hand-to-hand skills, including better attacks and/or evasive maneuvers (since the biggest weakness of the copies is their fragility). Another level training idea might be, if Jeff allowed, tougher copies.
IC:
"Me? I'm pretty independent and the list of my possible abilities is huge. Honestly, guys, I'm not big on taking direction from anyone to any great extent, not only because of the independence but because of the options available. In a lot of ways, I best serve as someone to hit areas where we might be weak or failing as the need arises in whatever manner I deem most effective.
Everyone can talk it out but I think that the general feeling is the same. Limited leadership is the "best" that we can hope for, I believe."
IC Response: Pardon the interruption, but, I’d like to suggest that If we’re selecting a leader, I say we vote, so that everyone here knows where the others stand. Agreed? As to group pairings, we’ll have to work that out based on our abilities, skills, and experience, but for now, unless someone as objections, I’d we take a short break . This will give us all a chance to figure out what we think is our best course of action. But, if you want to continue, stay. If the group breaks, Soldier will be the last one to leave the meeting room, as he wishes to gauge everyone's response. If no one engages him in conversation, he'll take his leave, and return to his quarters. As he walks the cooridoors, he'll think to himself. "How can't they see the advantages of what I'm proposing, it so simple. If we can just manage to work out some basic field tactics, we'll be able to takedoen groups like the Super Soldiers in no time." OOC: I'd really like you guys to play into Soldier's little speech, and him abrutly trying to end the meeting, when eveyone doesn't automatically agree with him. He's still not quite used to everyone having a say-so in making a decision like this, so I await your responses.
PS:
I've been thinking, I could see Clone, Slingshot, and Soldier, as being the group's close in fighters. Slingshot brings some power, Soldier is an all around good HTH combatant, who can take his share of punishment and Clone, has the ability to engage either multiple targets (like henchmen, rioters, etc), or to overwhelm an opponent (I might be able to fight 2 guys, maybe even three, but 14?). I can see Sentinel functioning as the group's field commander, with Lightning Strike acting as long range sniper, picking of targets, and disrupting machinery, and basically causing havoc. Talon, can dish out some decent damage, but his real advantage is his flight ability, and high AGL. He can scurry around the edge of the battle, picking off opponents. Avatar, and Symbiote, are general purpose fighters, as their abilities, allow them a wide range of options. I'd have to sit down, and think about this a little bit more, but does this sound like a decent analysis of everyone's capabilities?
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Avatar:
My analysis:
Clone: General-purpose but can't say that he's a close-in fighter. Something that he COULD do is let duplicates be in combat as cannon-fodder to keep attacks off of other group members. I still think that his main advantage is coordination to an ultimate degree. Surrounding foes, hitting them from behind and the flanks with "wolf-pack" tactics in a fight, duplicates going elsewhere away from the fight to accomplish objectives while the heavy combatants fight...these are Clone's strengths. I can see him duplicating and the duplicates running off in all directions in an enemy's stronghold to sabotage things and explore without any real risk of physical injury. Not that we're terrorists or anything, but what if Clone were a fanatic Middle Easterner? No need to recruit suicide bombers and brainwash them. We can have duplicates running all over doing things.
Slingshot: Lots of power right away. Don't forget that he's actually capable of longer-ranged attacks than anyone else when it comes down to it. He has ultra-stretchiness and can reach FAR to deal out his 2d10+ damage per hit. He's also very mobile...at least as much as anyone else, even if he doesn't actually fly. Tough and regenerates. Really a fantastic combatant.
Soldier: You know your own abilities. Not super-high damage but tough and long-lasting. Probably need to try and make use of the heightened sensory abilities if we can arrange it. Seeing in the dark when your enemies can't is a wonderful thing.
Sentinel: Multi-functional. Can sense people/creatures in a certain radius. Can fly. Can do distance attacks. Can shield himself and others, at need. Can do the "divide and conquer" that I mentioned earlier by encapsulating an enemy or enemies while we deal with their teammates.
Lightning Strike: Nice distance attacks. Teleportation is nice but is sometimes of limited use in combat. I've always wondered if we could get a device wherein one of us could surreptitiously carry Strike in his energy form as a surprise for our foes. I've also wondered if Symbiote could make a device that would allow Strike to charge the Harper Harness with his own (Strike's) electrical energy if we were on a long mission and there was no other way to get a charge. Disrupting machinery and electronics of foes has always been a favorite and has worked well. Depending on the foes that we face, this could be more damaging than regular electrical attacks.
Talon: As I pointed out, Talon is a terror. High AGI and the highest average damage per attack in the group? Add that to the mobility and he's way up there on the scary scale. In terms of pure damage-dealing, I'm not so sure that Talon and Slingshot together couldn't stand up to the rest of Vanguard, or at least give a good fight. Of course, we need tactics to ensure that we DON'T have to rely on pure damage potential in a fight.
Symbiote: IC or OOC analysis says that Symbiote is whatever he wants to be. He is potentially the most powerful member of the group. It's interesting to note that, in a rules-based analysis, most foes (and heroes) have STR and AGI modifiers from powers. Symbiote has built up his INT and END. When he absorbs the abilities of most folks, he actually becomes BETTER than them because he has not only their heightened STR and AGI but his own heightened END and INT. He's the ultimate multi-tasker but can be limited because of the nature of the harness.
Avatar: Depends on the power combo. I have a lot of stuff to choose from and, with Jeff allowing me to use two abilities, I can get really powerful...but only for about 20 minutes and at a cost of a lot of Power Points. I can be a decent all-around combatant for a whole mission or I can be really tough for what is basically a single combat. Can snipe with light control, can control weather, ride a winged pony, be cosmically aware...can do a lot of things and can do most of them pretty well but can't do them often because of the power requirements to get there. Once I get there, I've lost significant Power and that reduces my combat effectiveness. I've considered, after Jeff's allowance of me getting to use two divine powers at once, to go into big combats with Heightened Strength and Heightened Endurance (or another dose of Heightened Defense or maybe even Heightened Speed) and after that wears off either stay "normal" and use regular weapons or activate Light Control only and snipe at enemies with arrows of light. Probably just stay "normal" until such a time as I really NEED the divine powers because of their drain and relatively brief duration.
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Slingshot:
I'm just wondering what is the best combo attacks we can use..Also, Jeff, what are your thoughts about coming up with combo attacks with other players? Level advancement - luck points, etc..
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GM:
OOC:
I'm enjoying the IC discussion too, Dom.
Slingy/Stephane wrote: 'Also, Jeff, what are your thoughts about coming up with combo attacks with other players? Level advancement - luck points, etc..'
Reply: It depends on the combo. Some could even be free, like Colossus and Wolvie's cannonball special.
If some require level advancement, I'll let you guys alter your advancements to buy them now. Likewise, other team training ideas and/or communication signals (which wouldn't cost a whole advancement).
Best,
Jeff
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Sentinel:
Kirk was going to reply at many points, but took it all in. Then he spoke.
Matt your being new here doesn't diminish what you have to say, we all have a right to be heard with respect and our ideas discussed. I'm all for any efforts we can coordinate regarding some general battle tactics and covert communication to make us more effective in the field.
But as far as a team 'leader' who calls the shots, I'd have to agree with John's assessment of things. And I would add this, with our current arrangement, despite our many strong personalities when it comes to the point of taking needed action, we always seem to gel and act in harmony when we need to. When it is appropriate for someone to lead because of knowledge or expertise in a situation the others seem to automatically respect that and respond and allow it.
Until we encounter a specific situation it would be impossible to know what pairings would work best. But our choices when the time comes seem to work well.
And as for specific use of our powers in an encounter, no one has the years of field experience to call the shots here for anyone else. Many of us are still learning to master our own abilities and in each situation we may be expanding our own knowledge of them and how to best employ them ... how could one person hope to do that for everyone?
In our last battle, could anyone else have thought of your tactic of employing your nanites as an infective virus to attack the Entity? Would you have even thought such a possibility for yourself other than in those circumstances? We can't impose a system that limits such individual creative thinking in battle.
I think what you say we need a leader or coordinator to do, Vanguard already does in synch by our very nature. Frankly I'm impressed and proud of our synergy.
You say that its detrimental to us in battle. Could you take any one of our battles and using only the knowledge we had at the time of the battle (not knowledge from hindsight) determine where someone calling the shots could have made a drastic difference? And who would that person have been? Would they really have made those decisions? Or perhaps would one person calling the shots actually have prevented some important maneuvers on the part of others.
Again, I'm not looking to be difficult here either, but I'd suggest that while you are looking to formalize and assign titles and roles, Vanguard's structure is already accomplishing your true goals behind them.
To prove my point a bit further about one person just not being able to best exercise the powers of fellow teammates let me call on a couple of comments in our discussion about my own powerset and other perceptions of it.
I'm not looking to center anyone out here but Clone (actually Kirk uses his name, but Seth can't remember and it isn't posted in a character sheet yet, was it Uri?) suggested for covert communications my telepathy could be used as a mental switchboard. Actually I'm simply not capable of that. (Kirk turned to Clone and continued) The manifestation of my mental abilities has only been weeks and at this point although I am training, all I can do is read surface thoughts of others. With your being new here there was no way for you to know that so don't feel bad, but that's my point. No one of us can be an expert on everyone else's abilities.
(He added to Clone and Talon and Soldier) Incidentally my talent in this regard is on a need to know basis for tactical purposes for Vanguard and knowledge of it is limited to only our team and our Chess coordinators Grey and Drake, it isn't general knowledge... and (Kirk added to reassure his new teammates as much as himself) I don't employ it other than when necessary for the greater good - I respect everyone's right to privacy.
As another example John suggested in battle previously and here in conversation is the idea of using my energies to contain and isolate an enemy. Although I could do so, in actual execution of my powers it isn't a practical or wise maneuver. Again, you would have no way of knowing this John, but its far more difficult for me to encapsure an unwilling participant than a willing one. In addition to the difficulty involved in accomplishing it, even if I was successful it would remove my defensive capabilities. In our normal melees that would quickly take me out of the battle. Again, my point here being that each us knows our powers best and although others can suggest, I'm with John in stating no one should be in a position to 'tell'.
On your suggestion of debriefings, we do this after each mission with our Chess liaisons and if any of us make any real errors in judgment they will point it out. If other members of Vanguard feel one of us did something really wrong they usually don't have a problem giving voice to their opinion. In my opinion, with our many strong personalities an open forum discussing the good and bad of our mission to do better next time may be good in theory but in execution if we are going to discuss what each person did or didn't do and what others think about it, it will likely lead to bitter feelings and cause more harm than good. We can't sweat the small stuff if we want to get along.
Another suggestion mentioned about a team spokesman or chairman for noncombat situations is actually something that I did want to bring up myself. I'd really like to see Vanguard take a proactive approach in helping to better the world other than simply saving it from threats, as important as that might be. We can help to shape a better future. I'd spoken with Senator Doyle recently about volunteering in this regard and asked him to put me in touch with legitimate charitable organizations where perhaps I could make a difference. Some things I mentioned were helping kids to a better future and finding a cure for cancer. I'm going to touch base with Senator Doyle and see what he has come up with ... but I'd like you all to think about it being more than just me doing this. If any of you would be willing to volunteer some of your time in this regard, let me know. And if enough of you were willing, would the rest of you feel comfortable with using the Vanguard name to help.
Matt, there was a third cause I personally wanted to assist but didn't mention it to Doyle because I had to start somewhere and not everywhere. We need to do what we can for our veterans. They answered the call when our country needed them, we need to be sure that if they are in need, their call for help is answered. I can't think of anyone better suited on our team to be a symbol of that. Let me know if you'd be interested.
We could expand the scope of the causes involved to include those important to each of you. Please think about it and let me know.
This is especially important, not only to help those in need, but also because we are too aware of forces like Caine out there that will look to discredit those with gifts and turn the public against us. We cannot forget about what happened in the alternate reality. People need to perceive us as we are, not only as protectors but an inspiring force for the betterment of all.
Seth
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Lightning Strike:
I have been reading most of the posts and I agree that Lightnig Strike would not fit or agree into any leadership structure proposed. That being said, he will continue to serve as a member of Vanguard.
Strike will continue to ignore any meetings about strategy or leadership. He will meet in private with Sentinel and discuss what happened in the digital universe.
As for Silas Caine, now that Strike has been given an inkling that he may be an extra-normal, he will continue to dig deeper into his empire and attempt to stop it where possible (OOC: question to follow to GM as to how this follows out in tems of how I would like power increase.
Strike will work out with the group and attempt to work a good strategy with everyone.
OK until the pvt e-mails,
Tony
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Lightning Strike:
Private to GM and Sentinel:
Hi Jeff and Seth,
Given that I believe that Sentinel and Strike detected more than everyone else in the other dimension, Strike will talk to Sentinel alone.
Strike believes that we have been given a glimpse into a possible future. Strike and Sentinel have a unique opportunity to explore cyberspace in a way that has never been explored before. Between Sentinel's energy sense and Strike's power, Strike believes that he can interpret digital signals.
OOC: Strike would like to test this theory. In terms of game enhancement, Strike will look into being able to read and retain signals in cyberspace. This would translate into being able to read e-mails, wirelss transmissions (i.e cell phones and walkie talkies), In game terms, Strike would take an action and read/intercept communications that were being transmitted.
Strike will talk about this with Sentinel because he believes that they both tap into a similar stream of energy/data.
Strike will use this ability, should the gm apprive it, to track Caine.
Given his current abilities and his new discovery Strike will be tempted (hint GM), to spend less and less time in his physical form, like the invisable man.
OK, enough evil stuff for now.
Tony
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GM:
Private to Lightning Strike:
Cool! Looks like...
Heightened Sense: Can "read" e-mails, wireless transmissions (i.e cell phones and walkie talkies). Costs one action and 1 Power Points to do. Can detect all such communications within his range.
Thanks,
Jeff
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Sentinel:
Private to GM and Lightning Strike:
So three or four years now and I never realized we had in game private emails for the characters .... what sort of intrigue have I been missing???
Sentinel will cooperate with Strike in these endeavors. He will help to give Strike an understanding of how the electrical energy works at its basic level to form the language of the computer systems and it all interconnects. The computer tech stuff and how it related to energy is a specialty for Kirk and understanding it will likely help Strike to hone this new skill.
Once they discover the area of cyberspace that corresponds to the Entity's dimensional space Kirk would like to see how its energy readings differ from the normal internet/cyberspace (unless perhaps he got this already from their encounter in which case he would share this also with Strike).
It is likely that if Kirk does discover more info on Caine from his 'final read' in this encounter at the end of the last issue he would share it with Strike but at this point I'm assuming your handling that 'in issue' and we'll go from there on that.
Seth
