The wedding of two extranormals, Slingshot and Nanite, had quickly become the event of the decade.
In a few weeks after Ethan’s birth, it was the top story across all media, thanks to Slingshot’s new publicist/planner, Felicity Chase, who took the job at no charge to cement her name in the industry. It worked. Every celebrity magazine featured the happy couple on the cover, with articles ranging from the new Slingshot “Bounceback Diet” to ruminations on the mechanics of their sex life. Exclusive photos, television interviews, public appearances, and REACH events clogged every media outlet, along with speculation on the wedding itself.
Felicity Chase’s vision was St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Manhattan, with the surrounding streets closed to traffic for the thronging fans who would be cordoned off to catch a glimpse of the superhero wedding. Reception to follow at Tribeca’s hottest, and most visible, club, Roof.
CHESS reported any public spectacle wedding or reception would be a nightmare for security.
“Security?” scoffed the blonde Brit, Felicity. “With all of Vanguard in attendance? I suspect we’ll manage.”
The effect the wedding had on global public opinion of extranormals was incredible, gaining 10-20% favorability across the board. Between the celebrity obsessed media and the compelling, touching stories of REACH, Presidential candidate Silas Caine’s anti-extranormal message was being drowned out, for now at least.
[OOC: Slingshot, and everyone, what are the plans for the wedding? The reception? Who’s on the guest list?]
If Nanite felt the media storm was all too much, the change in public opinion helped her put up with it. She wanted a world that accepted extranormals, for herself, Scott and their child. But she insisted that Ethan be kept out of the spotlight.
Nanite placed a magazine touting a new line of Nanite inspired fashion on the coffee table in her quarters and thought back a few weeks to the birth of her son.
[flashback!]
Minutes old, Ethan was embraced by his parents, Vanguard, Doc Rocket, Sgt. Stone and CHESS.
When they finally opened the door from the electronic “blind room,” no changes came over Ethan, except that he was rushed by Menagerie and Sgt. Stone, who were stunned by his hyper-rabid development.
Ethan said, “You are like me too,” as he stretched Doc Rocket’s skin tight on his face with both hands. Doc laughed and marveled at Ethan.
Ethan said to Shelley, “You are like Mother, but not? Are you a mother?”
Shelley replied, “Me? Nope. How can you talk? And grow like this? Do you know?”
Sgt. Stone said to Ethan, “Here you go junior, pull my finger.”
There was much happiness and celebration in Vanguard Vault. Yet Menagerie’s Nature Sense still told him that Ethan’s presence in this universe was unnatural.
In the coming days, a series of tests were conducted on Ethan by Symbiote and Doc Rocket to understand his capabilities. [see Slate’s sheet] "You're the first baby I've delivered since my residency. I want to make sure you're off to the right start,” Hal said. There was no sign of the Entity, IT.
Scott and Nanite led Ethan’s education [Jon, care to add any skills here?] and got the family involved with REACH in a big way, with Sentinel’s assistance.
[end flashback!]
As the first known child of two extranormals, Ethan was stalked unsuccessfully by the media, thanks to Nanite.
The mystery only fueled the demand.
It soon becomes impossible for Vanguard to be out in public without crowds gathering for autographs and photos. Offers of a Vanguard animated series, and a REACH reality show, come in.
Senator Doyle supports REACH more than ever, perhaps to ride the pro-extranormal wave this election season.
[Responses to any of the above, everyone?]
During these crazy weeks of heightened fame and celebrity…
Clone, Sentinel and Symbiote continued their effort to gain special access to classified files on Dr. X, the creator of The Program in the USSR. Grey granted it, as the information was old, and had been downgraded in its security level in the wake of the Soviet Super Soldier conflict with Vanguard. This downgrade is what caused it to be visible now. It was somewhat anti-climactic.
It was a short report from 1943. During WWII, Liberty League founding member, Agent America (Miles Hudson) had coordinated an attack on one of Dr. Swastika’s labs with the Soviet Dr. X, a scientist of some renown. The mission was a success but Swastika was not found. There was nothing else.
When Kirk brings it up with Lancaster, he had no knowledge of it. It was not uncommon in those days for the mysterious super spy to be working secret missions that the League was unaware of.
When Kirk mentions it to the aging Hudson, he has some recollection, but never met Dr. X face to face. They had coordinated through radio transmissions.
[Reply, anyone, if any?]
Symbiote gives Clone a full exam and discovers his genes had been tampered with. Perhaps before birth!
Sentinel and Zephyr made love. The next morning, things were surprisingly not awkward. Then Shelley said, “We can’t tell Hal about this. He’s… well… protective. I had a boyfriend once in high school, and Hal nearly killed him. You don’t… know Hal like I do, Kirk. There’s… another side to him. Kinda brooding. Dark.” Shelley looked him in the eye and then burst out laughing. “Gotcha,” she said before running into the bathroom with the sheet wrapped around her.
[Reply if any, Sentinel? Plans here?]
Avatar secretly isolated himself and manifested the omnipotence of wise Athena. The demigod of destiny asked her, "Can I trust Ethan?"
He heard a woman’s voice reply in his mind, “Yes.”
[Actions, if any?]
Symbiote, Sentinel, Slingshot and Doc Rocket begin to plan another expedition to the Digital Zone!!!
Avatar receives word from Nigel, his antiquarian colleague who manages his bookstore. "The buying agent from Sotheby's has come back. The interested party has increased their offer. Your stalling tactic has them bidding against themselves now. Well played!"
[Reply, Avatar?]
Sentinel spoke in private, at length, with CHESS Director Grey again about MEDUSA and Vanguard Omega.
Kirk said, “…It’s because they don’t want us to prevent everything. They want us to be distracted.”
“Lemme get this straight,” Grey said. “MEDUSA got the end of the world story from Vanguard Omega and MEDUSA wants the world to end? They want Vanguard to take over the world?! That don’t add up.”
Kirk said, “…Then here in our world, Caine announces his bid for presidency. And as soon as the Omega heroes have been captured, MEDUSA makes its appearance and spirits them away. No access. No explanations.”
Grey corrected the kid: “You’re exaggerating. They gave an explanation. These guys are live specimens from a parallel universe alternate dimension whatever the hell. The geek squad at MEDUSA nearly wet their pants.”
Kirk said, “You, Drake, the Knights and Chess agents that knew us, were our friends, and wouldn’t fall in line – the government turned on them too.”
“Come on,” said Grey dismissively. “Doesn’t you knowing all this change events right here? Slingy’s big celebrity play. The amped up REACH stuff. Won’t all that change things, assuming the Omegathing was even our real future in the first place?”
Sentinel concluded with, “So I’m asking you again Grey… what do you truly think about MEDUSA? What do you know?”
“Look kid,” Grey said, “You keep talking about the government turning on YOU. But didn’t Vanguard Omega turn on the human race?
“You say our future is this the Omega future. I don’t buy it. But for laughs, let’s say I do. Let’s say there’s a remote possibility that Vanguard one day goes rogue and attacks the United States, takes over the world, right? Well, what do you think the government’s reaction should be? Doesn’t the government of the United States have a solemn responsibility to prepare for that on some level? Don’t they owe it to their citizens to ensure that they never fall under your heel? What would you do if you were the President, mister beacon of liberty?”
He took a drag on his cigar. “So that’s my big guess. But we don’t have to worry about that. Because that’s never going to happen. You guys aren’t Vanguard Omega. Now let’s go get a drink.”
[Reply if any, Sentinel?]
A week later Vanguard is told by Grey that MEDUSA denied their interview request. “Vanguard Omega have been designated a Level Four National Security threat and are being put into Hotsleep at CHESS Castle.” Vanguard knew all too well that Hotsleep was a chemical, suspended animation program that places the most dangerous prisoners in a dream state. “MEDUSA wants it done before Slingshot’s wedding, out of concern of what Slingshot Omega might do.”
It turned out MEDUSA found a solution to the program failure that enabled the Primate to achieve consciousness in his Hotsleep-induced dreams. The Hotsleep program was saved.
MEDUSA releases to CHESS and Vanguard all interview transcripts with Vanguard Omega, which appear exhaustive, thorough and legit. Only Sentinel Omega agreed to be interviewed at length. The story he gives MEDUSA about the Omega-verse appears accurate to what Vanguard knows. All personal details that Sentinel Omega revealed (secret identities, etc.) were thoroughly, and professionally, redacted from the record.
[Reply, Vanguard?]
Lightning Strike had learned that Homicide for Hire was auditioning for new talent. He planned to audition, to infiltrate them. He had ten nights to learn the audition’s location, and to create underworld creds for his new secret identity. [OOC: Criminal subculture skill rolls and a Luck Point for that!]
On the tenth night, the dark avenger’s strong arm tactics on Big City’s underworld paid off. Strike received word from one of his sniveling snitches that Homicide for Hire wanted to meet The Killer with No Name immediately. He had an address and nothing else of use.
Strike cased the meeting place carefully; a foreclosed, dilapidated warehouse in Brooklyn. After a cautious entry, he found a small brown box waiting for him in the center of the darkened structure. Strike scanned it and knew what was inside, and that it was safe. He opened it to find a cellphone that had a post-it on it. Capital letters printed in black said, “Your reputation precedes you. Keep this on you at all times. We’ll be calling you soon.” The phone proved to be stolen and clean, with no info stored in it. [Actions?]
Later at Vanguard Vault, Strike, Symbiote and Sentinel hit upon a lead to Strike Omega’s whereabouts. Strike’s uncle, Hank Archer had a cabin in rural upstate New York that he shared with Symbiote’s dad, Ralph Harper, when they were partners on the force.
Strike said, “When it comes to finding Hank Archer, I will pursue every lead available and I don’t want interference from any other members of Vanguard. This should and will stay in the family and if anyone can find Strike Omega, it should be me!”
Sentinel replied, "This 'family affair' involves more than just yourself. Hank isn't only your family here in Vanguard," he said shooting a glance at Hal, “and the stakes with Omega Strike involve all of Vanguard and the world. I'm sure you've been pursuing this with your own resources as have we also. We were giving you the courtesy of being included because we thought we had something solid here to investigate. You don't want interference in your investigation ... fine. But don't think for a second here that we won't do everything within our power to pursue our own investigation.”
Lightning Strike said, “Since Strike Omega is involved, I would be the one who is most likely to determine his course of action. Strike Omega also might not view me as a threat since we can’t harm one another. The situation might be handled peacefully.”
Symbiote politely but firmly declared, "Lightning Strike, I'm sorry. I know this is personal to you, and believe me, I despised the Omega version of me, I understand. But Hank Archer is my father's best friend, and was like an uncle to me and Shelly. Sorry, but I'm going." His expression made it clear he wasn't going to argue.
SHAKOW! Without another word Strike suddenly transformed into electricity and disappeared!
Sentinel, Symbiote and Menagerie raced to the Manta Craft to fly upstate! [Anyone else going?]
Lightning Strike reached the cabin first. The cabin on the lake was off the grid; no power lines, phone lines or cell phone service, and therefore the Vanguard communicators would be down. SHAKOW! Strike materialized a mile away at the nearest house with power and hiked to the remote cabin.
The night was dark like only the countryside can be. Strike saw the cabin from across the lake, lit with the yellow light of oil lanterns, just like he remembered. His uncle had taught him how to fish on this lake, beneath these pines.
After an electrical scan turned up nothing out of the ordinary, he made a cautious approach.
He spied Hank Archer sitting inside, drinking, listening to the radio.
Strike knocked on the cabin door.
Archer got up and saw him through the door’s window. A look of disgust crossed his face.
“What the hell are you doing here, Steven? You’ve got a lotta nerve after what you put me through. Is your wife still alive, too, you bastard? Damn YOU!” He threw open the door and charged Strike with his bare hands!
[Actions, Strike? Fyi, Vanguard hasn’t arrived yet.]
OOC: Replies to any and all of the above, Vanguard!
Thanks,
Jeff
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Menagerie:
OOC: Awesome Issue!
IC:
Digital Zone:
Symbiote, Sentinel, Slingshot and Doc Rocket begin to plan another expedition to the Digital Zone!!!
Menagerie will ask to be included in the plans unless it is hidden from him.
Upstate:
IC: Menagerie will stay with the team. He will use his heightened senses to find track LS Omega. If he senses he is near he will inform the others. Menagerie will turn into the form which provides the best change to track LS Omega. He will separate from the others only with permission or direction from Sentinel.
Happy Birthday:
IC: When they finally opened the door from the electronic “blind room,” no changes came over Ethan, except that he was rushed by Menagerie and Sgt. Stone, who were stunned by his hyper-rabid development ... There was much happiness and celebration in Vanguard Vault. Yet Menagerie’s Nature Sense still told him that Ethan’s presence in this universe was unnatural.
Then Menagerie turned toward Clone yelling, "So Clone this is 'The baby is having many powers it is seeming, Comrade Slingshot and Nanite are having only minor moments of difficult adjustment period' and 'Having no worries Comrade, if there is anything of problem I am sure to be let of you know.' AND 'I am thinking that is to be best that Comrade Slingshot and his family is working of things out in private.' So obviously you have no idea what a MINOR FAMILY PROBLEM IS!! This affects the whole STINKIN WORLD!”
Turning toward Symbiote and Sgt Stone, "I was created to protect the Natural Order from the unnatural! Yet you are celebrating the creation of this unnatural thing!"
Looking to Nanite, "Are you really happy with losing your son's childhood years? Is this how you were created? Did you cause his growth? I have accepted you because while unnatural you have protect the natural but how are you going to raise him now that he is a teenager!"
Facing Zephyr and Doc Rocket, "Please tell me at least you both see the danger in the situation, right? It is during infancy and childhood that dependancy and community is established. The importance of others and co-dependance is created based on the physical weakness of the person in comparison to the rest of the world. That is why the teenage years are such a trial. The child no longer is weaker than its surrounding so he tests all that learning to see if it is valid and decides whether it will support or destroy society.
Facing Slingshot, "So here is your OMEGA event. What are you going to do about it!"
Spinning toward Sentinel, "Please tell me you are scanning to see if those energy connections to the electronics have started again! Yes, I read the file, Dammit!"
Finally turning toward Ethan, "How did you do it? How did you trigger your growth? What is your programming MACHINE!"
OOC:
Wonderful Issue, Don't you think Menagerie is going to be a ton of fun at the wedding.
Viva the Natural Order
Tom
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Slingshot:
Slingshot steps in front of Ethan. He slowly seems to bulk up. To increase in size and in width. His face is hard and his fists are tightening. His eyes completely focused on Menagerie. Just as he's about to react, Nanite puts a gentle hand on his arm. He instantly deflates back to normal size.
He sighs and he puts up his hand in a peaceable sign "Menagerie. I understand your issues. There are two ways we can handle it. The one that you just started or there is another way. The problem is simple: Nature is here and Technology is here. Tech is here to stay as long as humans will be here. That's a fact. Ethan and Nan are super advanced representation of Technology. So we can start a fight or we can try and see how one can work with the other. You are in the special position to have two people that can potentially understand technology at a level that no-one else can in this world. They are also two people that bridge Nature and Technology in a way that is unprecedented. You may see them as unnatural, but if you work with them, you might be able to find a way to get Technology take on a more Nature-al aspect. Or at the very least something that is less anathema to Nature?"
As he speaks he steps aside showing him the young adult behind him. "I don't want us to start this way. Menagerie, friend. Instead of looking for Technology in him, can you see the Nature side of him? Maybe you can help nurture that side of him. Give him the chance to fight IT off if the time ever happens that he does come calling?" With that, Scott looks at his friend, hoping for reconciliation.
OOC: Great Issue, Jeff!
Tom, Nice tirade!
--------------------------------------------------
Menagerie:
OOC: Thanks. Wonderful response by Slingshot. I loved it.
Tom
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Sentinel:
OOC:
Hey Jeff.
Great stuff!
And I soooo feel that you’re playing me (Kirk) with MEDUSA, but with the evidence, particularly the interviews, along with the Grey discussion, and everything else going on, will dial it back on them for now.
Loved the Shelly scene ... and you (she) had me going for the moment about Hal... nicely done. And thanks for the morning after not being awkward. I didn't think it should be, but didn't know how it would play out on your end.
IC stuff to follow.
Seth
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Slingshot:
[OOC: Slingshot, and everyone, what are the plans for the wedding? The reception? Who’s on the guest list?]
OOC: First things first, I apologize daily to my future wife for this mess. I sounded good on paper, but it's less fun after it started.
The plans are pretty simple. We follow the lead of the Felicity Chase with regards to the wedding. Is Homicide for Hire available for security duty? <smirk>. Security-wise, can we have CHESS do some of the outside security? As they are used to extranormal activities and defense. If anyone else has a good idea, by any means speak up.
It's going to be a circus inside. I'm assuming that we will have lots of people we need to have there? I'm not sure. Jeff: Is there a ratio of innocent bystander that we have to get to go get our maximum popular impact? :grin: A little guidance (I'm assuming we will get that from Felicity.)
I'm assuming it will be televised?
... More to come, but I wanted to start something going here.
“It soon becomes impossible for Vanguard to be out in public without crowds gathering for autographs and
photos. Offers of a Vanguard animated series, and a REACH reality show, come in.
Senator Doyle supports REACH more than ever, perhaps to ride the pro-extranormal wave this election season.
[Responses to any of the above, everyone?]”
OOC: Can I get an exhaustive background check on Doyle? I'm not really interested in backing a politician, period, but if I have to I'd like to know what skeletons he has in his closet, because Caine will use it. If that needs to get done as part of the next issue, so be it.
“Symbiote, Sentinel, Slingshot and Doc Rocket begin to plan another expedition to the Digital Zone!!!”
So I was ok with researching it, I'm not sure I'm up for an expedition. I tried to go back in my emails, just to see if that was the plan, but I couldn't dig it up. I think that going there is a slightly over ambitious at this point. I'm not sure I'm willing to open that can of worms.
Maybe something with a dimension portal detector or something along those lines?
That's it for now.
--------------------------------------------------
Sentinel:
OOC: Tom-Stephane: Way to knock it out of the park IC. Nice job to you both!
Kirk’s attempted actions:
This was exactly what they were working hard to prevent, and here it came from within Vanguard itself! Kirk was about to physically remove Menagerie from the scene to diffuse the situation when Slingshot spoke both eloquently and from the heart. It made him even prouder to call the man his friend.
Kirk had already moved to place himself strategically between Stone and Menagerie figuring that if things were to escalate Stone would his heart of gold and no-nonsense attitude would be the first to put Frank, the new comer, in his place. And this wasn’t the time or place for a brawl.
He paused a moment hoping Scott’s plea would assuage Frank at this time and snap him out of this frenzy his natural sense undoubtedly put him in.
Then Kirk added to Slingshot’s words, knowing they were in mixed company, “Menagerie, we appreciate your thoughts of concern and that is why every precaution was taken, to ensure the complete safety of everyone. Rest assured, Vanguard in cooperation with Chess has followed and monitored everything both by scientific and super-powered means from start to finish. We’re sorry if all of this added some butterflies in your stomachs and caused some delay in sharing this wonderful event with everyone. But perhaps we can now allow the Slingshot and Nanite to share the event with the world and we can review the records with you.” And Kirk motioned for one of the Symbiote’s to join him and Menagerie into the ‘delivery’ room to discuss things further privately.
Once alone, Kirk continued, “Frank, I know that you must still be experiencing a disturbance in the natural order to have acted the way you did. But I hope you realize how you handled things just now was simply unacceptable. That wasn’t the time or the place.
You know everything we did to ensure the public safety. We took every measure possible. You should have displayed that confidence out there. Do you realize the public panic you could have caused if things got out of hand? Not to mention how hard we’re working to counter the prejudistic agenda fostered by Caine, we can’t do anything to feed into that.
“But we certainly are concerned about your perceptions. From all of my senses as well as from Hal’s scientific monitoring we appear totally in the clear regarding Ethan for now. Rest assured we don’t take the threat of IT lightly; so what are you still sensing here? Can you give us anything more to go on other than that the ‘Natural Order’ is still disturbed so it can help us to decide how to proceed here?”
OOC: Further actions on the issue itself to follow.
Seth
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Sentinel:
OOC: On the in-issue stuff, still to come.
On Doyle: Unless Jeff adds otherwise, he is one of the 'good guys'. He was who Kirk went to looking for help and advice in starting REACH and has been proactive in support of the heroes and those with gifts. He is actually one of the kid sidekicks who worked with the Original Sentinel in the 40's and helped form the "Liberty Brigade" (Think of Kirby's Newsboy Legion... or the "Little Tough Guys"/Dead End Kids" if you know old movies). He had a distinguished military career and eventually worked that into political one.
Jeff can add to or correct if he has worked out more of his background.
Seth
--------------------------------------------------
Avatar:
OOC: Jeff:
In regard to the selling of the bookstore, I'm going to go with the use of Oration and Diplomacy to try and talk my way into learning more about the buyer.
--------------------------------------------------
Slate:
OOC: Wow, nicely played on both parts by Menagerie and Slingshot…
IC: As Ethan views this exchange, his expressions change from mild interest to anger (mimicking Menagerie’s). Ethan’s eyes begin to sparkle… static seems to dance across their surface. Even his posture begins to change as Menagerie continues his tirade to anyone in the room that will listen. As Slingshot increases in size, Ethan also seems to expand; his basic shape stays the same, not like his previous growth, more like a balloon, basically the same material stretched.
As Nanite reaches for Slingshot and lays her hand on his arm, and his calmer tones prevail… Ethan also seems to calm, the static swirling in his eyes slows, and fades. A perplexed look takes the place of the angry expression. “Growth was triggered by proximity to similar entities and extended to the limit of resource availability. I do not understand what an OMEGA event or the Natural Order mean!” This is shouted back at Menagerie at roughly the same volume he exhibited coming into the room, over the shoulder of Nanite.
She turns and places her hand on her son’s chest, then pulls him into her arms protectively. “It will be all right she murmurs in a conciliatory tone… everything will be explained in time.”
Ethan again cocks his head to one side still looking over his mothers shoulder and continues to look at Menagerie, his face now expressionless. His skin slowly lightening becoming more similar to Nanite's.
--------------------------------------------------
GM:
OOC:
Slingshot wrote: Security-wise, can we have CHESS do some of the outside security? As they are used to extranormal activities and defense.
GM: Yes.
Slingshot wrote: It's going to be a circus inside. I'm assuming that we will have lots of people we need to have there? I'm not sure. Jeff: Is there a ratio of innocent bystander that we have to get to go get our maximum popular impact? :grin: A little guidance (I'm assuming we will get that from Felicity.)
GM: Felicity will provide her guidance next issue.
Slingshot wrote: I'm assuming it will be televised?
GM: Yes.
Slingshot wrote: Can I get an exhaustive background check on Doyle?
GM: Seth’s accounting is accurate. Doyle seems to be that rare thing: an honest politician.
Also, he was pro-extranormal long before it became fashionable this month.
--------------------------------------------------
Slate:
Immediate timeframe: Ethan's Happy to go through any tests they have for him... He'll cooperate fully and ask a lot of questions about each one...
IC: "Why are you doing that? What is this for? Why is it that color? How long do I have to do this? etc.. etc..."
Once the testing is complete, he'll stay close to Nanite and Slingshot, almost glued to their hips... at the same time, he will continue to question everyone about everything...
Short time frame (days to 1 week): Ethan will be a sponge, but I'd imagine everyone will attempt to keep him away from computers, so even though his knowledge will grow quickly it will be limited by Human/Robotic interaction... His hair begins to come in (Black and Curly), and his skin color will begin to stabilize (Dark, but not as dark as Slingshot). For all intents and purposes, he looks like a normal human teenage boy, except for his eyes, which stay silver and reflective like his mothers, with no discernible iris or pupil. He plays games, and delights in almost everything, though he stays away from Menagerie. His reactions to physical conditioning are human, he tires, and he sleeps (with his eyes open). He does not appear to get hungry, but does eat, and seems to truly enjoy Clone's mother's cooking.
Medium Term (2 weeks to 3 Months): As Slingshot begins to take him on outings, for fun, REACH projects, or just to see the world, he begins to ask questions about Why all of their friends wear masks, and dress differently from other people they see. After Slingshot explains, Ethan decides that he needs to have an alter ego. Slinghot encourages him and he chooses his moniker based on something Sentinel said when he first saw him, "Like a blank slate." He decides that shall be his name, "Slate." He then works with Nanite to create a uniform similar to the ones worn by his new family... Grey with a blank Slate on the chest. Slingshot smiles the first time he sees him in his costume... Ethan continues to follow Slingshot and Nanite around, but begins to follow around other members of the team as well when they will allow it, learning as much as he can about each of them, enjoying his freedom, and exploring the Vault. He spends a lot of time with Doc Rocket and Shelley in the lab, just listening to stories about his father, Vanguard, and history as the good Doctor remembers it. He'll begin to focus on some studies and develop skills during this time.
That's about as far out as I'm prepared to go right now... and of course he'll be preparing to play whatever part he plays in the wedding... ring bearer?
We shall see...
Jon
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Slingshot:
Scott walks into the gym with Ethan for some exercise and some sparring. He waves over Nathan Lamb. He introduces Nathan to Ethan. "I owe my life to this man." Nathan rolls his eyes, "Yeah, I've "spared" your life and I've been regretting it in this gym ever since." He speaks to Ethan, "We come to the gym on a fairly regular basis and we spar. Let's just say that your father takes it easy on my poor hide every time." Scott interjects, "No matter, you seem to have a way of twisting my arm.." with that he wiggles a rubber band looking arm.
"That one's getting old, Scott."
He nods to Ethan, "Start on the treadmill, I'll catch up with you." Scott speaks to Nathan, "You know that I've asked Nan to marry me. I'm going to ask you for a favor.. would you be my best man at my wedding?"
Guest list: All of Vanguard, the usual cast of CHESS people. I'm assuming that we would have a series of celebrities that will want in. A bunch of my family (I know we haven't exactly worked that out in my background) I would invite the cleaning lady and assorted staff at Vanguard HQ. All the other Supers that we know that we have a decent relationship with. Clone's whole family. Doyle and whomever he decides need in.
[ooc]I'm not very good at this type of thing. I always forget someone. My wife handled our marriage.. <smirk> So if anyone can think of someone else.. speak up.
Plans for the wedding: grandiose wedding, picture taking and reception. I would assume that the reception would be outside. (Let's hope Shelley can keep the bad weather away.. <grin>
I would assume that we can get some $$ for the television rights, so that it would pay for something this stupidly expensive. Also I would like to make sure that REACH has their logo visible before each commercial. I would like to get give-aways and momentos to be from charities that we like to sponsor, REACH and other good charities or companies that do good charity work (again, potentially get a kick back for the sponsorship to cover the costs).
Jeff - I'll reread the issue later this weekend and see if I forgot anything. Let me know if you have any specific questions that I haven't answered.
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Menagerie:
Slingshot - Rest assured we don’t take the threat of IT lightly; so what are you still sensing here? Can you give us anything more to go on other than that the ‘Natural Order’ is still disturbed so it can help us to decide how to proceed here?”
Menagerie - "All I can sense is that Ethan is more of IT's world than ours. Unfortunately I cannot tell you anymore than that but I will find out what is the threat."
Menagerie will spend all available spare time he has learning under Archimedes and meditating. He wants to understand better what is a threat to the Natural Order and what isn't. He will support Vanguard in all previous stated and requested activities. He will watch Ethan from a distance and will have the animal kingdom keep him under surveillance whenever he leaves the Vault. He will have the animal kingdom watch The Patriot as well. He is trying to figure out why Silas Cain has chosen this bodyguard. It has to be more than just Public Relations.
Thanks
Tom
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Sentinel:
Kirk would be against the reality show but perhaps open to the Vanguard animated series if other members were interested and if we had veto power on content (ie wants to be sure that it couldn’t be used against them in the future, etc). Naturally this would be dependent on views of other members, etc.
When Kirk brings it up with Lancaster, he had no knowledge of it. It was not uncommon in those days for the mysterious super spy to be working secret missions that the League was unaware of.
When Kirk mentions it to the aging Hudson, he has some recollection, but never met Dr. X face to face. They had coordinated through radio transmissions.
[Reply, anyone, if any?]
Do we have the location of the lab? Was it in Soviet territory or elsewhere? Can Ajay run thermal satellite images of the area to see if perhaps there may be aspects of a hidden portion of the lab not discovered prior? Or is it an area that could be checked out today without causing an international conflict?
Sentinel and Zephyr made love. The next morning, things were surprisingly not awkward. Then Shelley said, “We can’t tell Hal about this. He’s… well… protective. I had a boyfriend once in high school, and Hal nearly killed him. You don’t… know Hal like I do, Kirk. There’s… another side to him. Kinda brooding. Dark.” Shelley looked him in the eye and then burst out laughing. “Gotcha,” she said before running into the bathroom with the sheet wrapped around her.[Reply if any, Sentinel? Plans here?]
OOC: Loved the scene Jeff.
IC:Sentinel rolled his towel and playfully ‘whipped it’ after her as he chased her into the bathroom and joined her in the shower …Kirk was in no hurry to leave her company and asked ‘Breakfast?’ suggesting Sarabeths. If we want to say the evening was Saturday night and the day Sunday and Shelly was up for breakfast then perhaps the morning melts into the afternoon and they spend it wandering around Manhattan together enjoying the day. We have established that Kirk isn’t the type for a one-night stand and you had also set up that Shelly wasn’t that type either. Kirk would certainly indicate that he cares for her and would like to see where things go between them and hopes she feels the same way. (No head games on his part) At an appropriate time he’ll ask, “You had me going there for a minute when you were talking about Hal’s reaction to all of this. Seriously though, what do you think his reaction will be? How should we handle this with him?” After discussing that he’ll ask, “What about everyone else? Do you want to keep this under wraps for now at ‘work’?” Kirk would be sensitive to Shelly’s wishes here and what she is comfortable with … Other than Hal it really is no one else’s business and this is all new so perhaps keeping it quiet until they see where things go might be wise … although if things proceed as they have thus far I’d guess that perceptive personalities around them would certain notice ‘something is up’ with Kirk. If the rest of the day goes well as indicated Kirk will have a single rose delivered to Shelly’s apartment. It would be red unless she has a favorite color that roses have its variety along with a note, “To Beginnings” signed with a stylized ‘K’. Plans would be to ‘see where this all goes’ between them but to give her space as needed.
“Lemme get this straight,” Grey said. “MEDUSA got the end of the world story from Vanguard Omega and MEDUSA wants the world to end? They want Vanguard to take over the world?! That don’t add up.”
“No. They knew at least for now the threat to the world was neutralized. And they certainly don’t Vanguard to rule it. No, my fear is that their agenda is against those with gifts, whether those individuals use those gifts for good or not.
“Come on,” said Grey dismissively. “Doesn’t you knowing all this change events right here? Slingy’s big celebrity play. The amped up REACH stuff. Won’t all that change things, assuming the Omegathing was even our real future in the first place?”
“I certainly hope so. Even before our encountering them we’d taken steps based on our knowledge from the Primate encounter to prevent it. But we know that Caine is still actively promoting his agenda overtly; we don’t know how much is still being done covertly. “
”Look kid,” Grey said, “You keep talking about the government turning on YOU. But didn’t Vanguard Omega turn on the human race?
“You say our future is this the Omega future. I don’t buy it. But for laughs, let’s say I do. Let’s say there’s a remote possibility that Vanguard one day goes rogue and attacks the United States, takes over the world, right? Well, what do you think the government’s reaction should be? Doesn’t the government of the United States have a solemn responsibility to prepare for that on some level? Don’t they owe it to their citizens to ensure that they never fall under your heel? What would you do if you were the President, mister beacon of liberty?”
He took a drag on his cigar. “So that’s my big guess. But we don’t have to worry about that. Because that’s never going to happen. You guys aren’t Vanguard Omega. Now let’s go get a drink.”
“Grey, if anything threatened the liberty and freedom of its people it is the responsibility of the government to protect those things. Protecting those ideals for everyone if why I joined Vanguard in the first place. But in the Omegaverse it was the government taking away the liberty and freedom of all extranormals that caused Vanguard Omega to turn. If there is a part of the government that might be working towards that same agenda, then we need to know to be sure it doesn’t happen here. I’m never going to turn into Sentinel Omega. Our Vanguard will not become like Vanguard Omega. And I’m going to do everything I can to protect the liberties of every person including extranormals. This is part of that. But all right. Enough said. I’ll take that drink. But Grey, just promise me you’ll keep your eyes and ears open so that on the chance my concerns are valid you’ll be looking for it in your dealings with MEDUSA.”
A week later Vanguard is told by Grey that MEDUSA denied their interview request. “Vanguard Omega have been designated a Level Four National Security threat and are being put into Hotsleep at CHESS Castle.” Vanguard knew all too well that Hotsleep was a chemical, suspended animation program that places the most dangerous prisoners in a dream state. “MEDUSA wants it done before Slingshot’s wedding, out of concern of what Slingshot Omega might do.”
Kirk eyed Grey and said with a bit of frustration, “So if they are done with them, why deny our interview request at this time? What could possibly be the reason?”
And he waited for a reasonable response. Archer got up and saw him through the door’s window. A look of disgust crossed his face.
“What the hell are you doing here, Steven? You’ve got a lotta nerve after what you put me through. Is your wife still alive, too, you bastard? Damn YOU!” He opened the door and charged Strike with his bare hands!
[Actions, Strike? Fyi, Vanguard hasn’t arrived yet.]
OOC: Tony: Told you so! J
Seth
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Avatar:
I'd be against a reality show but FOR an animated series. I would recommend that we be "open" about our powers but actually skew them to represent something that they are not. For example, having an animated Slingshot doused by burning gasoline and it doesn't hurt him, instead showing him absorb it and regenerate from it, perhaps sculpting himself as he does it.
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GM:
OOC:
Slingshot: Shelley is the maid of honor.
Any info on your family, now's the time. I'm thinking their prolonged absence in Scott's life could be retroactively explained by their not understanding/accepting/handling his new appearance after the accident. Thoughts?
Thanks,
Jeff
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Slingshot:
OOC: That works with me.
Let's go with one parent (father), mother (deceased, breast cancer) and one brother. Both of them are hard asses and have had the same reaction to Scott's change. That reaction wasn't tempered by the mother which was the conciliatory presence in the family.
There's an aunt and uncle, who have had a cousin (female) who was a good childhood friend, but haven't hooked up for many years due to location and circumstance. So you can have fun with what has come up with her since.
Stephane
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Sentinel:
OOC:
Hi Jeff.
Since we have so many 'scenes' going and I'm not sure when each of them are taking place nor how far you are going ahead in the next issue after sending the last 'issue' post Kirk would bring up another concern about the whole Vanguard Omega thing (if it fits within the time frame and if we are notified that they are going to be put into the Hotsleep, not that they are already in it).
Kirk will suggest that transport of Vanguard Omega to go into Hotsleep would likely be the best chance for an escape, either on their part, or on the part of Strike Omega, so it would be wise to include Vanguard on detail to prevent it (and naturally unmentioned is that we get access to them finally). I don't expect MEDUSA to let us do this, but Kirk wants his request 'on record' so that if there is an escape during their transport, we tried to prevent it and we can use it against them later.
If there is any talk about it all being top secret and no way that Strike Omega could find out anything Kirk's response would be something along the lines of, "Make no mistake here, the most resourceful and dangerous member of Vanguard Omega is the one still at large. Do NOT underestimate Strike Omega. There is nothing he cannot uncover or accomplish once he sets his mind to it and in this world, he has no distractions to keep him from doing whatever he chooses."
Seth
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Symbiote:
OOC: Nice responses, everyone. To begin...
On the Menagerie/Slate/Slingshot/Sentinel confrontation: Hal says and does virtually nothing, merely observes everybody's reactions. ESPECIALLY Ethan's. Once it's over and Menagerie has left the room he turns to Sentinel. "Well, that was a bit...awkward...socially, but he's one more monitor on Ethan," he says. "So far so good. But I'm sure somebody on the bridge of the Titanic said something similar at one point."
On the Meta-Wedding of the Decade: Hal will attend, of course, and practice the time honored superhero tradition of a tuxedo over his costume (and the Harness). He'll charge it up with the powers of Talon and be prepared to activate the if there's trouble of any kind (he figures it'll be good to have a power set not readily available from his teammates, and a flyer too, since we're low on flight power at the moment).
On REACH, the newfound publicity and such: Hal is busy with a project he doesn't say much about in his lab so he hasn't worked with REACH a lot, but he appreciates the organization's mission and the work the others have put into it. He'll try to put in at least a token public appearance or two, and if there's anything medical the organization is involved in (a low income vaccination and wellness clinic, first response to a natural disaster, etc, etc) he'll commit at least a day's work to it. He doesn't have an opinion on the reality show but is charmed by the idea of a Vanguard cartoon. His one caveat: NO H.E.R.B.I.E.!!! (yes, I'm still bitter).
On Clone and Dr. X: Hal will suggest they get in touch with the recently defected (IIRC) Mother Russia, and see if she has any information she's willing to share about the not-so-good Doctor.
On the Digital Zone: I keep remembering a story arc during the Byrne run on "Fantastic Four," where the team all climbed into a small, diving bell-like craft and spent several issues exploring the Negative Zone (in the mean time Annhilus crossed over into Earth and captured and nearly killed Franklin and Alicia, but I'm sure Jeff is too kind hearted a GM to do such a thing to us). I propose something similar--perhaps a modified FF-type "flying bathtub" craft, with enough seating for every teammate who wishes to go on the expedition. The craft's controls would be more akin to a computer keyboard than aircraft controls (since we are essentially converting ourselves into data when we enter the zone) so any remotely computer proficent team member could control it to some degree, with Symbiote, Sentinel and Lightning Strike being particularly adept. It could be armed with the EMP device Hal was prepared to use on Ethan, in case we run across IT and he's in a really bad mood.
As for where we go, exactly? Hard to say. IIRC the Digital Zone was highly malleable, and we have no reference points. This will be a case of true exploration (and we'll need some sort of beacon system to find our way home).
On Vanguard Omega going into hotsleep: Hal is in favor of us guarding over them until they're put under, if possible.
On Lightning Strike, LS Omega and Hank Archer: Hal will recommend a straightforward flight to the cabin, though he agrees with Menagerie's idea of reconnasaince in eagle form and Sentinel scanning for energy forms (LS Omega, particularly) before landing. Assuming we land shortly after the confrontation between Hank and Strike Hal will reach in with Slingshot's power and try to separate them. "What the hell is going on?" he'll ask, trying not to sound to concerned about Archer (since he's hoping Hank never guessed his secret identity).
On Ethan/Slate: Hal observes Ethan carefully. He's polite but reserved if the Tabula Rasa Titan speaks to him or engages him in any way, until one day he invites Ethan into one of his labs. Most of the computers are powered down (Hal is always VERY careful not to expose any of his computers to Ethan), but one is active, showing some biology experiments Hal has been working on. Specifically, it shows some cells dividing. Symbiote removes his mask, looks at Slate and speaks very steadily.
"It's remarkable, isn't it Ethan?" Hal asks. "This is what life is, fundamentally. A constant whirlwind of change. Cells dividing, taking on new forms and new tasks. Sometimes those new forms involve productive grown, and sometimes they can lead to malignancies--cancer, the scourge of our time.
"You've been 'adopted' into the human condition, Ethan, and everybody here is glad you've joined us, but I think there's something you need to understand about humans. Perhaps the most basic difference between humans and every other life form native to this planet is our ability to choose how we change and what we want to be. Every day, humans make changes in their lives, in their behavior, in their beliefs. Every day they make a choice to become something different than the day before."
Hal steps close and lowers his voice, hoping that it will help the Synthetic Man concentrate on what he says. "Sometimes those choices aren't expected. Sometimes human beings make choices that weren't planned for them by their parents, or their government, or whatever gods their may be, or by evolution, or by fate," he says. "Sometimes we make a choice that nobody expects from us. And sometimes--often times, I'll even say--that's for the best.
"You're going to have lots of choices to make in your life, Ethan. Interesting ones, I'll wager. I'm going to ask you to always remember that you don't have to follow any path anybody has set out for you. You can choose to be better than anybody has expected--or created--you to be."
Hal relaxes, and smiles: "This may not make a lot of sense to you right now, Ethan. But it might be very important to you some day." He turns off the computer monitor. "C'mon, I'll introduce you to one of the more interesting creations of humanity. New York-style pizza."
OOC: Tony, best wishes to you and your family.
That's all for now. Viva Vanguard!
Greg
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Slate:
Ethan excitedly follows Hal to the lab. He hasn't seen him much, and is very interested as to what he does, realizing through conversations with others the general way the Harper Harness works. He's very curious about it. As they enter the lab, he notices absently that most of the computer monitors are blank. Hal guides him to one that is lit up. Ethan looks rapt at the screen, though to him it looks very different than it might to Hal.
Like something from the Matrix, Ethan sees the digital representations of the shapes on the screen. The individual pixels cycling off and on, creating the images he understands represent cell division. Ethan looks at Hal, slightly perplexed as he discusses what life is, and wonders if he is speaking of the images, or their creation which are to Ethan also constantly changing... He recognizes the tone as the same one his father uses when teaching him some lesson and turns away from the images, tilting his head slightly to the right, focusing on Hal's statements. When he pauses, Ethan responds, "This sounds a lot like what my mom's been teaching me about America... Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness... though you do make it sound a lot more personal."
At the mention of food, he head comes straight up. "Are you going in your uniform? Mom helped me make one like yours and dad's. Can I wear it?"
If Hal says yes, Ethan will step into the public for the first time as "Slate," if not, he'll go back to the rooms he shares with Slingshot and Nanite and grab the wrap around Ray Ban Daddy O's his dad got for him and go as himself. Either way, he'll let Nanite know he's going out with Hal before leaving the Vault.
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Clone:
THE WEDDING
As everyone buzzed about The Vault getting ready for the wedding, Clone sat quietly in his bedroom trying desperately to think of someone he could take with him as his date. For as long as he could recall, Clone had always taken his mother as a date to any kind of social event he attended. He couldn’t help but remember that whenever he would ask one of the single girls in his village to escort him to an event they would all simply giggle uncontrollably and run away. This time it would be different though; this time he would have a ‘real’ date, this time he would have to leave his mother at home.
The following day; much to the surprise of the Vaults inhabitant, a video on Youtube has gone viral overnight. Normally things like this would go unnoticed by the members of Vanguard except when the video in question features one of their own. The video entitled ‘Clone Asks Rachael Ray To The Vanguard Wedding’ shows an uncharacteristically suave and debonair Clone strolling through the kitchen and pantry areas of The Vault making the following request, “Hey Rachael . . . it is me Alexander Oleksienko, but pleased to be calling me Alexander. I am just to be taking moment out of busy schedule of most busy of courageous superhero life to be inviting you to go with me to the wedding of two of my most best of friends; Slingshot and Nanite. This very exciting and most glamorous of weddings is to be taking place in most trendy holiday paradise of New York City; so pleased to be taking of second to be thinking of this and getting back to me . . . alright . . . do svidaniya.”
( OOC: regardless if Rachael Ray takes him up on his offer or not, Clone shows up to the wedding in a brilliantly vintage, 70’s style, light powder blue tuxedo – with ruffled tuxedo shirt and all )
FLASHBACK
Then Menagerie turned toward Clone yelling, "So Clone this is 'The baby is having many powers it is seeming, Comrade Slingshot and Nanite are having only minor moments of difficult adjustment period' and 'Having no worries Comrade, if there is anything of problem I am sure to be let of you know.' AND 'I am thinking that is to be best that Comrade Slingshot and his family is working of things out in private.' So obviously you have no idea what a MINOR FAMILY PROBLEM IS!! This affects the whole STINKIN WORLD!”
As Menagerie continues on with his shouting and ranting; Clone turns to Sentinel nonchalantly and whispers out of the corner of his mouth, “I am thinking that Comrade Menagerie is maybe being mostly upset . . . perhaps he should be knowing that there are many tasty alternatives to regular coffee. Many of the decaffeinated coffees are being most delicious according to very popular consumer survey.” As Kirk stares at Alex with a mild case of quiet disbelief; Clone continues, “. . . but these are not being my words comrade; I am learning of this from most stunning of television personalities Rachael Ray . . . she is top expert in such things.”
BACK TO THE PRESENT
Clone jumps for joy when he hears that there’s a possibility of a Vanguard animated series and a REACH reality show. When not visiting his family, working with REACH, or immersed in his daytime television programs; Clone can be heard by the other members of Vanguard occasionally talking to himself as he goes about his daily routine around the Vault. Things such as, “. . . I am wondering if they could be getting great actor Steve Buscemi or maybe even Joe Pesci to be doing of my voice in Vanguard cartoon” or “ . . . could it be that maybe they will be wanting to bring together REACH reality program; which will of course be most successful of hit TV show, together with other such good reality shows such as Jersey Shore . . . hhmmm . . . I am wondering” can be heard coming from Clone from time to time as the other members of Vanguard walk by him.
THE WEEKS FOLLOWING THE WEDDING
Clone, Sentinel and Symbiote continued their effort to gain special access to classified files on Dr. X, the creator of The Program in the USSR. Grey granted it, as the information was old, and had been downgraded in its security level in the wake of the Soviet Super Soldier conflict with Vanguard. This downgrade is what caused it to be visible now. It was somewhat anti-climactic. It was a short report from 1943. During WWII, Liberty League founding member, Agent America ( Miles Hudson ) had coordinated an attack on one of Dr. Swastika’s labs with the Soviet Dr. X, a scientist of some renown. The mission was a success but Swastika was not found. There was nothing else. When Kirk brings it up with Lancaster, he had no knowledge of it. It was not uncommon in those days for the mysterious super spy to be working secret missions that the League was unaware of. When Kirk mentions it to the aging Hudson, he has some recollection, but never met Dr. X face to face. They had coordinated through radio transmissions.
Just to be thorough, Symbiote decides that it might be best if he did a complete medical examination and a series of detailed genetic tests on Clone. As the test results began to trickle back to him, Symbiote was shocked to discover what the tests had revealed about Clone. All of Clone’s suspicions seemed to be right, his genetic material had been aggressively manipulated and augmented . . . perhaps even before his birth. Although not entirely shocked by this news, Clone was none the less upset by it. He had secretly hoped that he was wrong about all of this and that he and the others would be able to laugh off his suspicions once they were proven to be unfounded, but this . . . this he wasn’t prepared for. What had they done to him? What had they done to his mother? Did they do anything to the other members of his family? The potential answers were to frightening to even contemplate; in a noticeably depressed tone, Clone thanked Symbiote for all of his help and then quietly left the Infirmary to go reflect on everything he had just learned.
For days afterward Clone seemed somewhat despondent and withdrawn; his attendance at REACH seemed to slip, when he did eat he would eat alone in his bedroom, and his normally active private life seemed to take a back seat to his brooding and depression. As more time had passed Clone decided that he needed to stop dwelling on things he couldn’t control and to start thinking about how he could find out more about what had been done and if he could fix any of it. He knew he had to find out more about this Doctor X, but he was concerned about involving anyone Vanguard anymore then he already had. His friends in Vanguard had become like family to him and he did want to see them get hurt. He knew that if he started to search for the answers he so desperately sought after, that there was a good chance that he would find them. The road that led to finding these ‘answers’ would most likely end at Doctor X and the Soviet government, and he was unprepared to see his friends get involved with either one of them. They had a good life here in ‘The States’ and they were all good people; the Soviet government unfortunately had a knack for viewing decency and purity as a weakness, and for trying to destroy anyone who held such things close to their hearts. No, he wouldn’t involve them; he wouldn’t see them risk their lives just so he could end what Doctor X had started so many years prior.
Clone waited for the right time to make his move and the time came sooner than he had expected. Avatar was off somewhere tending to some personal business, Lightning Strike left for Upstate New York with Sentinel, Symbiote and Menagerie in tow, Slingshot, Nanite and Ethan were together strengthening the bonds of their family, and Shelley was slowly distancing herself from anything resembling a superhero lifestyle – now was the time to act – now was the time to make his move. Making his way down to the street he quickly hailed a taxi and sped off into the night. Dressed in an overcoat and wide-brimmed fedora he said to the driver, “Pleased to be taking me to Nine East Ninety-First Street.” Arriving at his destination he stood quietly across the street from it for almost an hour. He just stared at the buildings stones and wrought iron fence, trying desperately to muster up the courage to enter. Crossing the street he started to make his way up the stairs when the door to the building suddenly opened and a uniformed man stepped out and said, “Welcome . . . to the Consulate-General of Soviet Union . . . how may we help you?”
>CLONE’S OOC RESPONSE<
I haven’t had a chance to mention it yet, but this was a really terrific issue. Not only did Jeff do a great job with the writing, but everyone else in the group stepped up to the plate and banged it straight out of the park. I would have to say that this issue easily brought out some of the best writing I’ve seen from Tom for some time – that stuff was terrific, Tom – great job. As for everyone else – outstanding as always – never a dull moment here amongst the other pens in Vanguard.
Oh, and in case I haven’t mentioned it yet – I’m really glad to see Jon amongst our ranks – he’ll definitely bring some added fun and excitement to the group I’m sure. Welcome aboard Jon, great to see you here =)
Talk to you all soon,
- Kev
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Symbiote:
On the pizza outing: Hal's first knee jerk reaction is against leaving the Vault in costume with the Synthetic Superhuman. Then, seeing it's clearly what Slate wants, he reconsiders. I just gave him a lecture about making human choices, and told him that it's OK to sometimes make choices others don't plan on, he thinks to himself. What the hell.
Assuming Slingshot and Nanite are OK with "Uncle Hal" taking Slate out in costume, Symbiote will "borrow" Slingshot's powers for the outing (just in case). The two will leave in one of the nondescript sedans I assume CHESS has parked in a parking garage at the bottom of the building (all government agencies seem to have a fleet of nondescript sedans). We'll find a small, locally owned parlor that Hal enjoys (those of you who live or have lived in NYC, plug in the name of a good place) and eat there. If fans or papparazi show up Hal will smile and wave but not say much, mostly concentrating on teaching Ethan the rightness of meatballs on a pizza and the essential wrongness of thick crust. If the owner wants a picture for his wall we'll happily pose for it.
On Clone's choice: I assume this happens after everything else in the issue. How do we find out about it? Did Alexander leave a note, or do we just notice he's gone? And for how long? Hal will have a definite reaction to this, but it all depends on how we discover it.
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Lightning Strike:
Lightning Strike came to the cabin in the hopes of defusing the situation, not escalating it. He will attempt to restrain Hank Archer and calm him down. Once things are somewhat settled he will speak to Hank Archer. "No Hank, my wife is not alive anymore. She was not transformed in the way I was. Hank, if there was any way to prevent what happened to you, you know I would have done it. I couldn't tell you everything that happened for your own safety. The people behind all of this will stop at nothing. You were used as a pawn to get at Silas Caine and although every fiber of my being wanted you to pull that trigger and gun the bastard down for what he has done, I couldn't let you do it."
Strike continues, "Others from Vanguard are on their way here. We probably have only minutes until they get here. You have to tell me where my counterpart is. Vanguard won't stop until he is hunted down. If he is here, tell him to come out. Neither of us can harm one another so he knows I am not a threat to him. In fact, there may be a way for help me bring down Caine but if Vanguard takes him out, he will be condemned to hot sleep and be in a coma for the rest of his days. Vanguard will see to it."
Hopefully, Hank will listen to reason.
OOC: The plan involving Strike Omega would be for either him or I to play the unknown silent killer in Homicide for Hire so that a Strike could be seen while the killer is "auditioning" further throwing suspicion off of Strike. Actually, if Strike Omega can do the magnetic powers as well, then he probably has less qualms about taking a life and could be more convincing. Of course, I don't actually want to see anyone killed but we do need to make this seem realistic so I may be forced to off some scumbags!! The sacrifices I make!!!
Take care all,
Tony
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Slate:
The pizza outing: Ethan happily suits up, and meets Hal in the hallway, giving Nanite a hug as he heads out the door. She smiles and waves at Hal as the two walk away from the doorway. The paparazzi show up as soon as they exit the vault and follow them to the shop, yelling questions and statements at Hal and Slate in an attempt to get a response. Slate follow's Hal's lead and does not engage, merely waving and mostly ignoring them. He's been followed before on outings with Slingshot, and is fairly used to the "limelight."
Ethan pulls his mask up over his nose, leaving his mouth and nostrils free to smell the aroma of the pizza, stretching the cheese until it breaks rather than biting all the way through the crust, thoroughly enjoying the obvious benefits of the thin crust, but he distractedly continues to look out the window at the four or five individuals taking pictures of them. He asks Hal, "Why do they do this?" As Hal explains that they sell the pictures to interested parties, often seeking embarrassing shots or pictures that can be used comically to some other purpose, Ethan says, "so without the cameras, they have no reason to be here?" as Hal responds, he sees what appears to be static flash across Ethan's metallic eyes, and hears cries of anger and fear from outside. Looking through the window, all of the cameras which had recently been pointed in their direction have seemingly vanished....
Ethan smiles and grabs another slice of pizza.
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Avatar:
OOC: Serves them right! Damned paparazzi!
Good play!
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Sentinel:
OOC:
Greg:
Glad that work must have lightened and you have the time for more detailed posts again. Really liked the nice interaction with Ethan and the thoughtfulness of the lab setting and usage in the discussion. Very nice!
Tried to get caught up on all the emails Friday night, but got interrupted until now ... and I see the new issue awaiting too (hooray!).
I'd also agree how much I enjoy everyone's posts and thoughts... and Kev, the whole coffee line had me rolling amidst the seriousness of what was happening there. You give Peter David a run for his money setting up humorous situations and pulling them off... hope Alex knows Rachel Ray is married and he just wants to be 'friends' ...
Seth
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GM:
OOC:
This quote from Sentinel:
"Make no mistake here, the most resourceful and dangerous member of Vanguard Omega is the one still at large. Do NOT underestimate Strike Omega. There is nothing he cannot uncover or accomplish once he sets his mind to it and in this world, he has no distractions to keep him from doing whatever he chooses."
... reminds me of Indiana Jones telling his Nazi captors about the remarkable prowess of Marcus Brody in Indy 3:
Walter Donovan: He sticks out like a sore thumb. We'll find him.
Indiana Jones: The hell you will. He's got a two day head start on you, which is more than he needs. Brody's got friends in every town and village from here to the Sudan, he speaks a dozen languages, knows every local custom, he'll blend in, disappear, you'll never see him again. With any luck, he's got the grail already.
[Cut to middle of fair in the Middle East, Marcus Brody wearing bright suit and white hat, sticking out like sore thumb]
Marcus Brody: Uhhh, does anyone here speak English?
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Sentinel:
OOC: Vanguard should be that lucky here!
Also, I'm sure others have spent much more time in NYC than me and might give you a local spot in Manhattan that is exceptional, but if you are willing to just cross over the Brooklyn Bridge Grimaldi's fits the bill. I haven't had their pizza in a number of years, and they opened one here in Garden City, but the one here is nothing special and I wouldn't even go back. The original was very exceptional for the couple times I had it a few years back. Sadly I've been reading that due to circumstance in recent weeks it will likely cease being ...
Seth
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