THE VANGUARD VAULT!

Vanguard: Issue 152: Homicide Unlimited!

2012-01-22T15:12:00.002-06:00

On the wedding day of Slingshot and Nanite, Lightning Strike discovered that Jim Harrik had put a price on Vanguard’s head! The reward was membership in Homicide for Hire. Now, the auditioners gathered around the wedding church and held their ground… watching, waiting for the opportune moment to attack the most powerful superhero team in the world!

As Vanguard leapt into action, preparing for the onslaught of would-be assassins to begin, inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Archbishop of New York said: “Do you, Nan, take Scott, to be your lawfully wedded husband?”

Nanite said, “I do!”

The Archbishop turned to Slingshot: “Do you, Scott, take Nan, to be your lawfully wedded wife?”
Scott looked into Nanite’s silver eyes. Focused solely on her, holding her small hands in his, he took a moment and savored the fluttering he felt in his heart. "I do."

For the vows, Scott said: "I had a long speech, but I'll make this short. Even though, it was the first time I ever met you, you supported me in a way that I hadn't seen since the accident that made me what I am now today. Since that time, I knew there was something special about you. You are special to me and I'm more than happy to spend the rest of my life with you."

Nanite simply said, “Scott, you saved my life. In more ways than one. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.”

Doc Rocket dabbed the corner of an eye with his handkerchief.

Meanwhile, two blocks away…

Lightning Strike, disguised as The Silent Killer, stood on a rooftop at sundown, between two men, who were each a rooftop away, standing in shadows.
Strike recognized them both.
One was Catman, an expert infiltrator and thief who usually worked alone.
The other was Dexter Sinister Jr., the psychotic court jester of crime, and bastard offspring of the former member of the Five Bosses, Dexter Sinister, now deceased. “Innocent bystanders,” grinned Dexter Sinister Jr. merrily. “I do so love innocent bystanders. I don’t think… I’ve ever seen… so many… all at once!” His dark eyes twinkled with glee at the prospect.

Catman ignored Sinister and nodded at the Silent Killer. “We’re not enough yet for a siege. Won’t be long now, though.” His telescopic goggles adjusted automatically. “Sentinel is on the street. Talon’s in the air. Enough of Vanguard to go around, friend. Enough of Vanguard to go around.”

Lightning Strike/Silent Killer spoke to them softly, trying to get them to come closer. “What separates Vanguard from us is that they have a strategy all the time. We can't rush into this without a plan."

As Catman and Dexter Sinister Jr. watched in the direction of Vanguard, Lightning Strike tried to sucker punch both of them with bolts of lightning! SHAKOW! SHAKOW!

Dexter Sinister Jr. was caught completely unaware! The psychotic psychedelic’s skeleton was illuminated from within as he was electrocuted into unconsciousness! He fell hard onto the roof and didn’t move. WHAM!

Catman proved luckier. He saw the sneak attack coming [thanks to a successful Detect Hidden roll, and rolled with much of the damage]. Unhurt, he looked at “the Silent Killer” without speaking. Whether he believed the Killer to be an undercover agent or just an auditioner looking to ice the competition, Catman saw no profit in this fight. He leapt fearlessly off the side of the building and down, away from Lightning Strike’s view!

Outside the Cathedral…

Avatar, one Clone, Sentinel and Sgt. Stone had stepped out the southern door to yells and well wishes from the crowd that was barely held back by temporary barricades. The myrmidon of mythology waited to manifest Olympian power.

The NYPD, Nathan Lamb and the CHESS Knights asked the crowds outside the Cathedral to disperse, to no avail. The majority of the crowds thought it was all an act; all part of the circus atmosphere. They settled in, hoping to see a theme park stage show of fake bad guys “fighting” Vanguard! Cheers rose in the crowd!

Sentinel energized his shields and formed a device to amplify his voice as he rose.
“Citizens, unfortunately this is not an act. It is not a show. Please listen to the CHESS Knights and cooperate with the NYPD to disperse and leave this area as quickly and orderly as possible.”

The crowds cheered to see Sentinel, leader of Vanguard!

Sgt. Stone put two granite pinkies in his mouth and whistled shrilly. Then he cupped his two big mitts around his mouth and hollered at the crowd: “Hey! Party’s over! You missed the bride and groom! They ducked out the back way!” The crowd half listened to him.
“Reception’s at The Roof, in Tribeca. You’re all invited. Open bar. But you better hurry! First come, first serve!”

That worked. The crowd started dissipating. There were people fanning out into the streets for a one block radius around the Cathedral. Stone, Lamb and the CHESS Knight Honor Guard moved with them as protection.

Sentinel nodded appreciation at Stone and hurtled into the sky towards the villains he saw or sensed. As he did so he spoke to Ajay stating, “I don’t take the clouds rolling in as coincidence, it appears we have a rogue with weather control here. During the attempted breakout at CHESS Castle I took out a thug there, I think Elemento was his name. He still locked down?”

Ajay replied: “He is. Must be another weather-controller.” The cloud cover was complete.

Sentinel took a place hovering above one of the buildings in area and his energy forming a giant image of his face amplifying his voice through the skies. “You dare come on this day to this holy place, a place of peace, with murderous intent?!?” he shouted across the skies. Kirk’s normally warm face was now anything but that as it lit up the sky.
“Look around you. Do you really think Harrik is seriously considering the lot of you? You are his cannon fodder! There is no element of surprise here. We know everything. Menagerie sensed your coming! Vanguard is ready for you. And we are angry! You have been set up by The Mercenary to fail. You will fall and you will fall hard. We give you one chance. Turn and run! NOW!”

Of the twenty-three advancing killers that could be seen at this point, a third of them took Sentinel’s advice to heart and retreated. Among them was Pipsqueak, the dwarf with the strength of fifty full size men; Hardcore, the invulnerable hitman; an evil goth cheerleader they couldn’t identify; and Big Time, a 40 foot tall giant who probably would have made a terrifying addition to Homicide for Hire.

[I’m awarding you with Oration skill for that little stunt. Lord knows, over the years, Sentinel’s earned it! ;) ]

Symbiote thought to himself, “Time to pick a partner.” Hal was still infuriated at the attack on a sacred day for Vanguard. He heard Sentinel bellow a challenge to all comers. “Let's show them we mean business.”
Symbiote picked one of the villains not silhouetted by the sun in order to come at them from the direction of the sun. He climbed high, dodged two news copters that were hovering over the church, and then divebombed for The Fly! ZOOOOOOMM! The claws of Talon raked the insect assassin! SKRAASSHHH!!

The Fly was successfully ambushed by the suddenness of the attack and the cover of the setting sun! He couldn’t return the attack, but he did roll with it! Symbiote’s savage slash would have killed a normal man. The Fly seemed unaffected! Symbiote heard a steady buzzing drone coming from this creature. And the super-scientist detected the unmistakable stench of death!

Meanwhile, inside the cathedral…

Slingshot, after the ceremony, ring exchange and the signatures, turned to the assembly and calmly said, "Thank you one and all for coming. This day is of special importance, not only for Nan and myself, but for all of the Supers community. I wish to thank you all for your support. As you well know, we have had a large campaign trying to call for understanding and acceptance. Obviously, it is also the occasion to make a statement against such it. We have been alerted that Vanguard has been chosen as the target of such a statement. There is no need to panic, you are likely safe here as possible, since all the members of Vanguard, including me, will be going outside to meet these people." He turns to Nan, kisses her deeply and whispers, " Keep them calm, if CHESS wishes to evacuate them, help and encourage." He smiles at her and says, "It's time to be brave again." This last was an inside joke regarding the first time they ever met.

Nanite replied with a smile, “Don’t be brave. Be careful. You're married now.”

Slingshot took one giant step across the church, to the gasps and applause of the congregation, to the door. Via his communicator, he told CHESS to secure the assembly. “If you can't bring them outside, possibly bring them into the basement.” Scott exited and closed the doors behind him.

Clone took up a defensive position inside the cathedral. Reducing the number of duplicates from twenty-two down to thirteen, one stayed with the other members of Vanguard outside the cathedral, one stayed with Rachel Ray, one stayed near Slate and Nanite, and the remaining ten took up guard positions near the entrances and exits of the cathedral so that no one could leave.

Slate watched as Nanite, Doc Rocket, Shelley and the Chess Agents started to evacuate the wedding attendees into the basement of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. But his eyes were really on the door Slingshot exited the building through. Not having a communicator, the only information he had was what’s been said aloud, and he felt an odd sensation/emotion for the first time, anger.
“This is not right,” he thought. “Today was to be a happy time for his family, and someone is intruding on what should be a celebration.” Slate began to deliberately stride toward the door with intentions of finding whoever is responsible and stopping them.

“Ethan! Come back!” he heard his mother call from behind him. [Reply, if any?]

Slate saw four Clones near Slingshot’s exit moving to intercept him.
[Clone, do you try to prevent Slate from exiting the Cathedral? If yes, Slate, what is your reaction?]

Clone’s nervous energy got the best of him unfortunately, and he can’t help but start to chew the ‘woman of his dreams’ ear off as Vanguard begins to secure the perimeter of the cathedral. Not realizing that Rachel’s probably frightened by all the commotion outside, Clone takes the opportunity to act like a love sick schoolboy; he carries on about the first time that he saw her show, the first recipe he heard her discussing, thanking her for coming as his date, asking her why she is single, and so on.

“Alex, why aren’t you outside with the rest of Vanguard?”

Clone continued on with his love struck banter as if he didn’t even hear the question and replied, “ . . . perhaps if it so that you are not being so busy, that you be might be coming to meet my mother. She is most excited to be meeting with you after it is that I am telling her that you are here being my date today.”

As they joined the attendees who were slowly making their way into the basement, following the President and the Secret Service, Rachel said to herself, “You come to superhero wedding, I guess you shouldn’t be surprised when a fight breaks out.” Then, “That’s sweet of you Alex,” as she put her hand on his arm to steady herself on the stairs down.

Outside the cathedral…
Slingshot exited the church and the lingering crowd out front cheered! It was a three ring circus outside. Some of those that were dispersing turned to see Slingshot still there! Slingshot was pelted with volleys of rice. Flashbulbs popped all around him from the paparazzi. [Slingshot successfully saves vs. blindness! By the time Slingshot gets through the ceremony and outside, his “action” (his allotted time to act this issue) is done.]

Menagerie, following Sentinel's lead, assumed the shape of Eagle and took to the sky. “SKRAAA!” Using his eagle eyes, he identified all the remaining assassins he could see and thought-sent their coordinates to the rest of the team. By providing surveillance and intelligence gathering for Vanguard, he hoped to help coordinate attacks and make sure no one would attack Vanguard by surprise!

Menagerie identified the following supervillains who remained:

The Fly! Menagerie sensed he was an enemy of the Natural Order, he flew 200 feet from the street!

Black Ice! The anarchic, ice cold killer was advancing at street level down Fifth Avenue!

Damocles! An armored female enforcer for the Miami drug lords stood atop a 30 story building!

Catman! The expert infiltrator and thief was in an alley at street level!

Triceratops! The Jurassic juggernaut who might be Pachyderm’s equal was at street level!

Chain! Ninja apprentice of the Cat, who was one of Big City’s Five Bosses, was atop a 40 story building!

Inside Man! An albino assassin whose powers were unknown, was at street level!

Dexter Sinister Jr.! The court jester of crime was unconscious atop a roof!

Web! Agile arachnoid who must have survived the failed jailbreak of the Primate, was atop a 15 story building!

Killshot! The high tech blind zen archer, was perched on a 25 story building

Overdrive! The brutal speed freak, wanted for armed robbery, assault and battery, was on the street!

Black Sheep! The outcast gun for hire, who was rumored to be everywhere, was atop a 35 story building!

Jack Lantern! The eerie Halloween killer was at street level!

The Voice! The living death knell flew at a height of 100 feet!

The Silent Killer! New to Big City and looking to make a name for himself, was atop a 25 story building! [Tony, I don’t think Strike has informed Vanguard of his alter ego.]

The crowds were in the streets for a one block radius around St. Pat’s. Knights, Lamb and Stone with them

[See image and map below for their placements! Each map square is 40 feet / 8”. Characters are not in scale. Thus I can’t fit all the Clones in the Cathedral. One counter will represent multiple Clones there.]

The murderous wedding crashers, having ringed the church, still waited. It was a standoff. Until…

Triceratops saw the groom and suddenly let out a growl and charged! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! He was barreling down on Slingshot like a runaway train! His advance became the rallying action that the rest of the criminals had been waiting for, triggering an end to the standoff! They joined his charge, advancing en masse!

Menagerie telepathically reported the advancing wave of extranormal assassins to Vanguard!

Avatar, hearing this, manifested the endurance of Hera to prepare himself for the imminent battle! [+15 to Endurance! Everyone had one action this issue. Manifesting Strength will have to occur next ish. Thanks.]

OOC: Actions!

Current Conditions:

Avatar: Hit Points: 103, Power Points: 84, Manifestation: Hera

Clone: Bodies: 13, Hit Points: 2 each, Power Points: 41 each, Hit Point Pool: 22

Lightning Strike: Hit Points: 48, Power Points: 65, currently disguised as the Silent Killer.

Menagerie: Hit Points: 26, Power Points: 63, Form: Eagle

Sentinel: Hit Points: 30, Power Points: 59, Creation Points: 118, Shields: 100

Slate: Hit Points: 35, Power Points: 72

Slingshot: Hit Points: 79, Power Points: 91, Invulnerability: 8

Symbiote: Hit Points: 91, Power Points: 93, Charges: 12, Copied: Talon

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Menagerie:
OOC: Wow amazing issue!
I am always impressed with your villain creation but Homicide Unlimited is pure greatness!

Viva Vanguard!
Tom

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GM:
OOC: Thanks.
Villain creation combines my love of V and V character creation with my secret, innermost murderous impulses.

Just kidding.
They're not secret.

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Sentinel:
OOC: Great issue Jeff!

Glad Kirk is much more heroic than I am ... your descriptions and visuals of the villains have me ready to run :) --- I was expecting a crowd of wanna-be's with a couple of heavy-hitters in the mix; they look tougher than that...

And thanks for the oration skill ... although it sounds like you're actually giving me a license to make speeches ... you may have the other players paying you a visit in Chicago in real life :)

Can you tell me what the oration skill actually means in game terms?

Hopefully will get my posting done this weekend, although I think it should be a quick one just choosing a dancing partner at this point... (is that cheers I hear from the other players?)

Seth

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Slate:
“Ethan! Come back!”he heard his mother call from behind him. [Reply, if any?]
Slate saw four Clones near Slingshot’sexit moving to intercept him.

IC: Slate stops at his mother’s command, as he does, he hears Sentinel’s booming voice, and cocks his head to one side, listening... processing.

Suddenly he shouts, “Clone, Sentinel is right, this is all a ploy to get Vanguard away from the guests. Think about it from everything I’ve read about Vanguard’s encounters with Homicide for Hire, they’ve always had bigger goals, taking down the US economy, removing Vanguard so the bosses could take over the New York underworld…all of the individuals Menagerie is sending, (I'm assuming he received the mental sending, since that's the only way he'd know who's out there)are nobodies, where is Harrick? Where is his team? They’ve got to be after the President!”

He suddenly spins and sprints toward Nanite, and the basement.

OOC: Even if he's wrong, that'll give him something to do. :)

Jon

Viva Vanguard

OOC:
Guys,
I know everyone's busy with the new year and all, but I wanted to give a little background on Slate's response. I also know several of you like to wait until the last day to post and that's cool too.

Reading through the issue several times, I'm convinced something else is going on here. As stated, this is not the kind of thing Harrik does, it's got to be a distraction... Also, Jeff is so slick with sliding stuff in that you think doesn't mean anything until you realize it was actually the "clue" that pulls everything together. I/Slate am/is actually convinced that Clone's date is not the real Rachel Ray... She keeps trying to get him to go out and help his team,
“Alex, why aren’t you outside with the rest of Vanguard?”

Clone put the invitation for the date on the internet, where anyone/everyone could see it... As his date, she'd have full access to all areas, and Harrik would know she'd be with the rest of the wedding party when things went down.

As they joined the attendees who were slowly making their way into the basement, following the President and the Secret Service, Rachel said to herself, “You come to superhero wedding, I guess you shouldn’t be surprised when a fight breaks out.” Then, “That’s sweet of you Alex,” as she put her hand on his arm to steady herself on the stairs down.

I wouldn't be surprised if she's none other than Skin Deep. I know we've got to deal with the threat outside, but I'm pretty sure there is something else amiss, and I'm hoping Clone shares my/Slate's concern with the rest of Vanguard.

Just wanted to share how I came up with this response.

Jon

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Slingshot:
OOC:
You are correct. I was thinking about that as well, but I'm not sure that Scott would let the others deal with the bad guys by themselves. So keep us posted if you need us to help. At this point, we have to deal with the wall of villains coming at us.

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GM:
OOC: Slick?!
:)

So Slate hasn't told Clone his thoughts about Rachel Ray? I see you've just discussed it OOC.

Menagerie, did you include Slate in your thought-send about the villains you identified?

He doesn't have a communicator as he's not an official member of Vanguard.

Thanks,
Jeff

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Menagerie;
OOC: Yes, Menagerie included Slate in the thought-send. He would do it to scare the kid so he won't do something stupid like leave the protection of his mother. Menagerie included Nanite in the thought-send as well.

Best,
Tom

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Slate:
OOC: Thanks Tom, after writing this I was thinking with the rocky start they've gotten off to, he might not even think about including Slate, but I like your idea of trying more to intimidate him.

As far as telling clone, I think Slate would grab the nearest Clone and spill the beans with regards to his thoughts. I don't think his mental filter is developed enough to think this might upset Clone, and he wants/needs a communicator to let everyone else know his suspicions.

I had thought Slate might try to find Nathan Lamb, but I think one of the Clones would be closer...

IC: As he runs toward his mother, Slate grabs the nearest Clone by the arm and begins dragging him toward the stairwell. "We have to stop them, and the individual we thought was Rachel Ray may actually be Skin Deep or someone like her. They used you to get into the wedding. We've got to let everyone know..."

OOC: Clone's turn. ;)

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Menagerie:
OOC: You’re welcome Jon, when Jeff asked me if Menagerie included Slade in the thought-send it left me a little stumped at first. When considering Menagerie's current relationship with Slate and Nanite I wasn't sure if he would or wouldn't.

So I stepped out of character and then thought about what would be the best game play experience for everyone involved? The answer was easy. Menagerie had to thought-send to Slate. With that settled, I had to think of a good justification for Menagerie to do it. He went with the mindset that the unknown to a child is exciting and alluring, so Menagerie would have to counteract that by trying to scare the young'en.

I then decided to include Jeff in on the fun but letting Nanite know as well. How will she react to the info? It will be an interesting development for Slate and Slingshot with Momma scared for both of them.

Now all I got to do is figure of what my action will be for this turn.

Tom

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Sentinel:
OOC: Hi all.
The time for speeches is done!
Not sure how the landscape will change by Kirk's movement but in the beginning of this battle Kirk should be in good shape against physical damage and will try to attack as best he can to take a foe out of the battle. If there is any sign of any energy leech type foe he will avoid them as he needs to maintain his power with them outnumbered (although things look safe in that regard).

I can't make out who most of the little squares around me are ... although Killshot looks close, minimal physical protection, and with a ranged attack she could easily take shots at his teammates, so if nothing better presents itself perhaps a good old giant fist or hammer in her direction might take her out of the battle for his first blow. Secondary perhaps Black Sheep or Damocles - but Killshot looks more unprotected.

If another attack on a foe already hit be another teammate appears to be able to take down an enemy or help out a teammate who appears to be in trouble, that works for me too as the target.

If a threat emerges that appears to really need Kirk's attention (others totally not suited), then that is the foe.

Whatever will thin the herds of their enemies fastest would be first choice of attack figuring to take out the extra bodies (attacks) first and then concentrate on the tougher opponents. Forester style attacking might work best for Kirk's approach (ie attack one for to the next, ignore the foe attacking you if possible and hitting another opponent serves better).

So now that I have an official 'oration' skill, you get what may be my first silent post :)

But at least I still can give a ridiculously long set of directions to say 'I hit a bad guy'.
Seth

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Slingshot:
Slingshot knows who he's going to have to stop. Triceratops!

[OOC: My actions will depend on some clarification - The people are a block around the cathedral. Does that mean that Black Ice in standing with people?]

[OOC: Option 1: Assuming that Black Ice is not mixed in with innocent bystanders and he's in a perfectly pretty position to get smooshed]

Since there are multiple assailants and Triceratops is a nice and heavy beast, a perfect projectile. As he prepares himself to receive the horned villain, Scott stretches his arms out to building outcropping anchoring himself sufficiently. As Triceratops attempts to bulldoze through the elastic powerhouse, Scott will use his stretching power to absorb his kinetic energy and then launch him at Black Ice (the other villain within visible range). He will make sure that he will arc it in such as way that Triceratops will get smashed down on top of Black Ice and the pavement and not start rolling down the street.

[OOC: Option 1: If Black Ice is in too close to bystanders, using Tactics, I'll grab Triceratops slingshot him towards Sgt. Stone for double administration of pain!]

"Stone! I've got a present for you! Batter up!", yells Slingshot. Anchoring onto the pavement, Scott stretches and grabs the Mesozoic Menace and throws him at Stone who readies himself to deliver his signature haymaker! (It's Clobbering Time!)

If there any issues, let me know. I'm interested in giving them some pain, but I'm more interested in not seeing any bystanders hurt. So if there is any chance of that occurring from my actions, I will not do them.

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Symbiote:
Hal attacks The Fly again. He circles back around the Insidious Insect and rakes him again with the claws. "You been playing with dead things, Gnat, or whatever your name is?" he asks, taunting his foe.

Viva Vanguard,
Greg

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Menagerie:
OOC: Menagerie will continue to provide surveillance to the team as they engage the villains especially using his senses (Magical and Animal) to spot any new villains showing up including inside the church. He will attempt to widen his flight path to get behind The Voice or Black Sheep. He will then fly toward his target turning into Spider (venomous) form with the intent to land one on them without their notice. He is wanting to find a foe without sealed armor that he can apply his Spider Bite to.

My List of choices in order are:
The Voice
Overdrive
Black Sheep
Jack Lantern
Killshot
Chain

IC: "Vanguard keep moving, there are too many to get bogged down in a one on one slugfest with. I will inform you if I sense any new players show up."

Via Vanguard
Tom

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Lightning Strike:
OOC:
Not that I want to make a habit of replying during the allotted time, but Strike/Silent Killer will use this opportunity to get off the roof via the most convenient electrical outlet available. He will materialize somewhat away from the main area of combat and then attempt to levitate a manhole cover magnetically and then aim it at one of the nearest Vanguard members but then "just miss" and "inadvertently" hit a villain that looks close to attacking and potentially harming one of Vanguard.

OOC: I have been working like a dog and tomorrow is my daughter's birthday so I am too lazy to look at maps and actions to see how this might play out. I now know more about 3D Beauty and the Beast (saw it yesterday) than I do about Vanguard (not saying much). At least my son didn't like it but my daughter wants to see all of the Disney princess movies now!!

Take care all,
Tony

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GM:
OOC: Thanks everyone.
Slingshot: Black Ice is just outside the ring of innocent bystanders.

Menagerie: Your “attack” is transforming into Spider, with the intention of attacking your prey next ish, correct?

Lightning Strike: fyi, Transforming into lightning would be your “attack” which would delay your manhole cover attack until next ish.
OR, Strike could descend the building and move through the crowd, toward the cathedral on foot, expending all his movement, and then do his manhole cover trick. Your choice. Thanks.

The extreme ranges of this battlefield are one of its challenges.

Best,
Jeff

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Slingshot:
OOC: Thanks.
Fair enough. Black Ice it is.

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Menagerie:
OOC:
“Your “attack” is transforming into Spider, with the intention of attacking your prey next ish, correct?”

Yes, that is my intent.

Thanks
Tom

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Avatar:
Avatar will go ahead and activate Heightened Strength (so that he should now have both Heightened Endurance AND Heightened Strength) and move to attack, with spear, the nearest ground-based group of villains, trying to tie them up with him while other heroes can pick them off around him or so that other heroes can take care of other threats. With both of those scores heightened, Avatar should be able to take quite a bit of damage and still be mobile so that's the route he'll take. If he sees or hears that others are having problems, he'll leap out of the fray and toward the trouble. His leaping potential should be pretty high at this point.

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Lightning Strike:
OOC: You would think I would know the rules by now. In order to stay in character, I will take your advice and go down the pedestrian way and then do my previous action.

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Clone:
Working Security ( 10 Clones )
As Nanite, Doc Rocket, Shelley and the Chess Agents started to evacuate the wedding attendees into the basement of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Clone and his duplicates do their best to lock all the exits / entrances and direct the traffic flow. Their attention is suddenly grabbed by the thoughts of the duplicate standing guard over Nanite and Slate, “Slate is running for the door – stop him!” Four Clone’s immediately move into place and block the youngsters path.

They feel a sense of relief when the young boy stops in his tracks and another one of their number moves next to Slate and starts to slowly usher him back towards his mother. A moment later however, their thoughts are overwhelmed by a dark warning from Slate sent them telepathically from that exact same Clone, “Clone, Sentinel is right, this is all a ploy to get Vanguard away from the guests. Think about it from everything I’ve read about Vanguard’s encounters with Homicide for Hire, they’ve always had bigger goals, taking down the US economy, removing Vanguard so the bosses could take over the New York underworld… all of the individuals Menagerie is sending, ( Jon OOC: I'm assuming he received the mental sending, since that's the only way he'd know who's out there ) are nobodies, where is Harrick? Where is his team? They’ve got to be after the President!”

The Clone’s quickly move back to their posts around the interior perimeter of the Cathedral, draw their staves and take up defensive postures. Without warning they’re once again sent a shocking telepathic warning issued forth by Slate, "We have to stop them, and the individual we thought was Rachel Ray may actually be Skin Deep or someone like her. They used you to get into the wedding. We've got to let everyone know..."

One of the duplicates then turned, unlocked the door next to him and opened it. Another duplicate came charging through the portal and slammed himself directly into the Clone before him. As the two collided into each other; two became one as the other absorbed his doppelganger, their number had now been reduced to twelve. The door was quickly closed and relocked – the interior of the cathedral was not under ‘lock-down’.

Heading Off Slate ( 1 Clone )
As Nanite, Doc Rocket, Shelley and the Chess Agents started to evacuate the wedding attendees into the basement of St. Patrick’s Cathedral; with a determined look in his eyes, Slate began to deliberately stride toward the same exit that Slingshot just went through.
Nanite “Ethan! Come back!” he heard his mother call from behind him.

Slate saw four Clones near Slingshot’s exit moving to intercept him.

Slate stops at his mothers command, as he does, he hears Sentinel’s booming voice, and cocks his head to one side, listening... processing. Clone ( OOC: The one that was standing next to Nanite and Slate as they were headed downstairs ) quickly makes his way over to Slate; places his hand gently on his shoulder and says, “Please to be coming with me Ethan, your momma she is calling of you to her”.

Suddenly Slate shouts, “Clone, Sentinel is right, this is all a ploy to get Vanguard away from the guests. Think about it from everything I’ve read about Vanguard’s encounters with Homicide for Hire, they’ve always had bigger goals, taking down the US economy, removing Vanguard so the bosses could take over the New York underworld… all of the individuals Menagerie is sending, ( Jon OOC: I'm assuming he received the mental sending, since that's the only way he'd know who's out there ) are nobodies, where is Harrick? Where is his team? They’ve got to be after the President!”

Having spent enough time amongst the other members of Vanguard; Clone had come to understand that anything and everything is possible. If Slate’s assumptions were even partially right, Vanguard was dealing with more then they knew about and needed to be informed immediately. Clone instantly sent out Slate’s warning to all of his duplicates – the President needed to be secured!

As he ran toward his mother, Slate grabbed Clone by the arm and began dragging him toward the stairwell. "We have to stop them, and the individual we thought was Rachel Ray may actually be Skin Deep or someone like her. They used you to get into the wedding. We've got to let everyone know..."

Slate then spins and starts to sprint towards Nanite, and the basement. Momentarily stunned by the possibility that he could be right, Clone couldn’t help but run along with the groups newest member as he pulled on his arm. As they approached Nanite, Clone sent out Slates latest warning to his replicas without further delay.
Outside The Wedding ( 1 Clone )
As Clone stands outside the front entrance of the cathedral he stops what he’s doing as he receives the warning issued forth by his duplicate on the inside. Without hesitation he reaches for his communicator and brings the rest of Vanguard quickly ‘up to speed’ on Slates concerns and assumptions and that he is going back inside to secure the interior just incase he is correct. With the rest of Vanguard informed of Slates fears, Clone telepathically lets his duplicates know that he is coming back into the cathedral and to prepare for ‘lock-down’.

Charging through the open portal before him, Clone slams himself directly into the duplicate before him. As the two collided into each other; two became one as the other absorbed his doppelganger, their number had now been reduced to twelve. The door was quickly closed and relocked – the interior of the cathedral was not under ‘lock-down’.
With Rachael Ray ( 1 Clone )
Clone continued on with his love struck banter as if he didn’t even hear the question and replied, “ . . . perhaps if it so that you are not being so busy, that you be might be coming to meet my mother. She is most excited to be meeting with you after it is that I am telling her that you are here being my date today.”

As they joined the attendees who were slowly making their way into the basement, following the President and the Secret Service, Rachel said to herself, “You come to superhero wedding, I guess you shouldn’t be surprised when a fight breaks out.” Then, “That’s sweet of you Alex,” as she put her hand on his arm to steady herself on the stairs down.

As Clone made his way down the stairs with Rachael he unexpectedly stopped dead in his tracks as his head was suddenly filled with some alarming thoughts from one of his duplicates. An image of a panic stricken Slate flashes through his mind followed by a warning, “Clone, Sentinel is right, this is all a ploy to get Vanguard away from the guests. Think about it from everything I’ve read about Vanguard’s encounters with Homicide for Hire, they’ve always had bigger goals, taking down the US economy, removing Vanguard so the bosses could take over the New York underworld… all of the individuals Menagerie is sending, ( Jon OOC: I'm assuming he received the mental sending, since that's the only way he'd know who's out there ) are nobodies, where is Harrick? Where is his team? They’ve got to be after the President!”

Rachael looked questioningly at Clone as if she was waiting for an explanation as to why they stopped going down the stairs. Clone then turned to her and said, “I am being most sorry for this stopping, please let us continue . . . I am needing to get to President . . . he is possibly in most serious of dangers it is seeming.

Clone then stops once again as he receives some additional information from one of his replicas; another warning from Slate, "We have to stop them, and the individual we thought was Rachel Ray may actually be Skin Deep or someone like her. They used you to get into the wedding. We've got to let everyone know..." Clone’s head then snaps around and his eyes open wide as he looks directly at Rachael Ray in disbelieve and gasps. ( OOC: It would be obvious to Rachael Ray that this “look and gasp” was directed at her – if this is Skin Deep, maybe this will spook her into making her move??? )

OOC: Before I forget to mention it – this was a fantastic issue, Jeff!

I think I addresses everything here, but if I did miss something let me know – I can get anything else you may need out to you tonight.

Only 12 Clones left by the way – hopefully that boosts their Hit Points =/
Talk to you all soon,
- Kev

Vanguard: Issue 151: The Audition.

2012-01-16T13:47:00.001-06:00

In the crazy months of celebrity and fame that led up to the wedding of Slingshot and Nanite…

Vanguard was agreed. They would license their likenesses for an animated series, over which they would have final approval. Felicity Chase was thrilled. She’d begin securing a toy partner right away. And she pushed Slingshot hard to permit Slate to be in the series, “Imagine what the show could do for him,” she said. “Don’t you want your son to be loved by millions of kids?”

To Alex’s question about voice talent, Felicity replied, “There’d be no harm in asking. Sign here.”

[Replies? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

Sentinel and Zephyr shared with Vanguard that they were a couple! [Replies, Vanguard?]

Clone, Sentinel and Symbiote tracked down a cold lead on the lost lab of Dr. Swastika, in what was once Nazi Germany and what was now behind the Iron Curtain in Soviet-controlled East Germany. Satellite imagery showed an indistinct structure in the target area. Ajay said, “Only thing I can say for sure is that there’s something there.”

Sentinel said, “Perhaps we can have Grey have the building and area checked out low key. Surely Chess or one of her allies has access to undercover agents in the area that can check the area for current activity.”

Symbiote was more than willing to join any covert effort to find out what's going on at this mysterious bunker.

Grey acquiesces to Symbiote’s request. “OK. We could use a genetic scientist for recon of one of Swastika’s labs. I’ll put things in motion.” [Replies if any? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

Symbiote met with Mother Russia. At one point, she said, “I want a new costume and name to disassociate myself from my former homeland, but can’t decide what.”

Hal replied, "Mother, we just hired a publicity consultant--God help us--so maybe she can help you with some aspects of this. If you want to call her we'll give you a card, she left about a million lying around," Hal says. "I'm not much of a fashion designer, but as for a new name? How about Knockout?" he says, looking her over approvingly and remembering that Talon has removed himself from the playing field.

Mother Russia smirked. “The problem with mad scientists is: you never know if all they’re after is your DNA.”

But she softened at Clone’s costume design. She said in Russian, “Alex. Still with the sensitive soul of an artist. It’s beautiful. But do you think it could be another color than red?”

[Replies if any? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

Sentinel said to CHESS Director Grey, “I do understand. Thanks for trying here. I suppose after we get through things here perhaps Hal and I can pay a visit to Chess Castle to assuage some of our concerns and see just what is going through their minds and happening there. Do you think it would be possible to get access to the MEDUSA agency mission statement and what is available to other agencies? I’m not looking for top secret access here, but a bit beyond what I’m sure they’ll let me see now. I’d like to see the picture they are presenting to their sister agencies as to what they are.”

Grey said, “I’ll do what I can.” [Replies if any? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

Symbiote, Sentinel, Slingshot, Menagerie and Doc Rocket began to plan another expedition to the Digital Zone! Symbiote agreed with Slingshot and Sentinel that it’s prudent to wait until they have more information about current events in the Zone. He'll continue blueprint work on the craft and design a few probes to launch into the zone, hopefully to get some telemetry about the current situation.

[Replies if any? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

Avatar manifested the oratory and diplomatic ability of the Olympians to learn more about the anonymous buyer. Sotheby’s buying agent replied, “You’ve no need to worry. Your collection will be in good hands that appreciate its worth. The buyer is a scholar himself, and a collector of antiquities. But he is a very private man. I don’t believe you would have heard of him.” This seemed to rule out Silas Caine.

John tried to force the issue (diplomatically, of course). “I would like to meet the buyer to assure myself that my life's work will be going to someone who would appreciate it.”

The agent said with sincere regret, “I’m afraid I cannot help you in this matter. It would mean my job, my career. My reputation would be ruined.” [Replies if any? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

Menagerie heard Archimedes speak in the language of birds: “Your duty is to defend Nature, aye. But the manner of your death has shaped your focus. Distorted it. Because you died defending animals, you think your duty is to defend the animal kingdom. But there is so much more to Nature than that. Open your mind, boy. What do you think Nature is and how we might best serve it?”

Menagerie replied, "I would do my best of open my mind. But an open mind is worthless unless it is filled. Please Archimedes fill my mind, teach me about Nature. What it is, what it means, and how to best serve it.”

“That’s just what I intend to do, boy,” said the owl. “But there are some things only you can learn for yourself.”

[Replies if any? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

Rachel Ray replied to Clone’s YouTube video shortly after it went viral. She let him know she wasn’t looking for romance. She just agreed to be Clone’s date for the wedding to show her support for the heroes of Vanguard. But she was a single woman. [Reply, Clone?]

Lightning Strike reached the cabin ahead of Sentinel, Symbiote and Menagerie. 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. The night was dark like only the countryside can be.

Lightning Strike got his arms around Hank Archer and said: “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."

Archer growled belligerently but stopped throwing punches for now.

Strike continued, "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 him to 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."

“He’s not here,” snarled Archer. “And he told me you’d say that. He said to tell you, of course I don’t know where he is. Would you have told me that?”

Strike left without a word, leaving his uncle to the mercy of Vanguard!

Sentinel, Symbiote and Menagerie soon made their cautious approach on the cabin and found Hank Archer alone. “More capes?” he snarled when they revealed themselves. “I’ve had it with all of you!” [Replies?]

[end flashbacks]

Now! The wedding of Slingshot and Nanite!

Every seat in the monolithic, 133 year old, Neo-Gothic, Roman Catholic Cathedral was taken. Shelley went down the aisle first and everyone stood up and turned around to see the beautiful bride.

Nanite was crying tears of joy by the time she reached Scott. The couple held hands, the congregation was seated and the Archbishop of New York began the ceremony.

Then Lightning Strike’s phone silently vibrated! It was the phone the “Killer with No Name” had been given from Homicide for Hire! Without looking at it, he used his powers to “read” the incoming text. It said:

“Go to St. Patrick’s Cathedral immediately.

Any of you that kills a member of Vanguard passes the audition and becomes a member of Homicide for Hire.

Good luck.”

Lightning Strike discreetly informed Vanguard via their communicators.

Slingshot asked the Archbishop to stop the ceremony for a moment. The congregation murmured. Nanite looked at Scott in surprise.

Slingshot leaned over to Nathan Lamb, his best man and whispered. “Put the CHESS teams in high alert. They are to keep everyone outside the church. Alert the secret service. Get the President out of here.”

Lamb nodded solemnly. He gave Scott his ring, said, “Good luck, Scott,” and left out the side door so as not to cause a further disturbance. Sgt. Stone and Vanguard followed him, save Slingshot [and Slate? Up to you, Jon].

Before he left, Symbiote turned to Slingshot. "Scott, enjoy your wedding. I'm sorry most of us aren't going to see it, but we'll all get drunk and watch the video later. When you're done saying your vows, excuse yourself and come out and join us.” Shelley longed to go with them. Her eyes followed Sentinel out.

The audience was buzzing now. Then the President was calmly escorted out and down an interior stair case, and the crowd inside the church began getting very concerned. The camera teams kept rolling.

Slingshot told the Archbishop of the emergency situation and asked that the ceremony be shortened.

Nanite smiled, relieved that the ceremony was at least continuing. The Archbishop agreed to Scott’s request and continued the ceremony.

Vanguard regrouped in a side vestibule with Lamb and Stone. One Clone was with them. The other Clones were still in the cathedral, lining the walls as ushers, save one who sat with Rachel Ray.

Sentinel raised his communicator, “Ajay it’s happening. Eyes in the sky ready. They are on their way. Let us and the Knights know what you pick up on aerial feed. Keep NYPD in the loop as necessary.”

Ajay replied, for all of Vanguard to hear, “Roger that. Uh, Vanguard, I’ve got some cloud cover moving in. That’s funny. Forecast was clear today. Satellite’s not going to be much help. Pulling files on Homicide for Hire. Silencer and Hyena are incarcerated at CHESS Castle. Atomic Brain is dead. Penumbra aka: Dark Avatar is believed dead. Zero G and The Mercenary (aka Jim Harrik) are currently at large.

Zero G is an extranormal with the ability to alter and control gravity.

The Mercenary is a trained military soldier and expert combat tactician. Both are extremely dangerous.”

Symbiote said to the team, "This is a two pronged attack, on both our lives and our reputations. Even if we win the fight, there's a good chance that innocent bystanders could be hurt or the cathedral could be damaged, and all the hard work we've put into good publicity could be instantly wiped out. I can just see the headlines in every paper that Silas Caine has a controlling interest in--'Metahumans Destroy Famed NY Landmark, Dozens Injured' or some such crap. Well, it Ain't. Gonna. Happen."

"We have to stop these imbeciles outside, before they get a chance to wreck everything, before most people--especially the papparazi--know it's even happening. We've got to give them some targets to shoot at and we have to stop them before they put the slightest crack in even one pane of stained glass," Symbiote said.

"And today, gentlemen--today we play full contact. These @$#&%*!$ are coming here, to a house of peace, and trying to kill us and disrupt the wedding of two people we love. That gets them more than just the normal thumpin' and cuffin'. I'm not saying we fight back with lethal force, but my heart isn't going to break if the CHESS Castle infirmary is at full capacity tonight."

Sentinel said, “Drake, you on this?”

CHESS Agent Drake’s unflappable, unhappy voice came over the communicators, “I am. Is it too soon to say we wish you had followed our recommendations for the wedding? You won’t have air cover. Repeat, there are no birds in the air. We’re not firing live rounds inside Manhattan.

“The CHESS Knights’ first priority has to be protecting the bystanders in the street. I reco that any extranormals in attendance who aren’t affiliated with Vanguard join CHESS to defend the church and the public.”

Lightning Strike turned into electricity and SHAKOW! he was gone!

Menagerie silently closed his eyes and contacted the bird and rat kingdoms to determine if the assassins have arrived yet. They were starting to come. But were keeping their distance. Waiting. One of the would-be assassins caught Menagerie’s attention. Viewed through the eyes of a lurking rat, he was somehow anathema to the Natural Order. Menagerie somehow knew his name was The Fly. [see image]

Sentinel exited the side door out into the street with Nathan Lamb and Sgt. Stone. St. Patrick’s Cathedral was on Fifth Avenue between 50^th and 51^st streets. The crowds were half a block deep in all directions and they cheered, happy to see Sentinel!

Nearby, CHESS Knights were speaking with electronically amplified voices: “Everyone! Please leave the area! We have reports of trouble! This area is no longer safe! Please leave!”

But the majority of the crowds thought it was all an act; all part of the circus atmosphere. They settled in, hoping to see a theme park stage show of fake bad guys “fighting” Vanguard! Cheers rose in the crowd!

Sentinel used his energy sense to scan the crowd for extranormals or unusual energy sources and found none within his range of 100 feet!

Symbiote raced up the stairs to the bell tower, dropping his tuxedo coat on one floor, his vest on another, his shirt on still another until his costume underneath is revealed. He reached the roof, activated Talon's telemetry and launched himself into the air, swooping around the venerable church and the surrounding area, using Talon's enhanced vision to scan for possible enemies! Alright, you bastards, he thought. Come get some.

The Harper Harness replicated the following powers:

1) Animal/Plant Powers: Avian (-2 to Strength, -2 to Endurance, +3 to Agility)

a) Wings: Talon has large, black, feathered wings that are silent. Permanent +3 to Agility.

PR: 1 per hour of flight. The wings are concealable with a special harness. However, the discomfort of the harness prevents rest, and therefore healing, while worn. 203 MPH.

b) Natural Weaponry: Retractable claws on Talon’s hands give +3 to hit, and +6 to damage

c) Heightened Strength: +7

d) Heightened Endurance: +7

e) Heightened Senses: Talon has vision and hearing 3 times the human norm. Detects X 3.

As Symbiote burst from the belltower, the crowd cheered in excitement! The show was really starting now!

He soared to altitudes over 50 stories to survey the area. They were nearly surrounded by skyscrapers. Rockefeller Plaza lay to the west. Lower, residential buildings to the east.

Symbiote’s extranormally-enhanced eagle eyes saw a ring of killers slowly forming at a radius of two city blocks! Some stood on rooftops. Some in the streets. Some flew. He could see eight of them.

An armored woman with whip!
A dark, flying insect man [The Fly]!
A man in a grey uniform!
A flying man in yellow and black!
A high-tech archer!
Two were just silhouettes against the setting sun which was on the horizon, beyond the cloud cover.

He only recognized one:

Web, the human spider who had been one of the Primate’s Ani-Men. He had never been captured.

All were too far away to capture an image to relay to Ajay.
They were holding their ground, watching each other, waiting, but for what?

Lightning Strike rematerialized SHAKOW! far from the church, incognito as the silent assassin. Having seen via traffic cameras where some auditioners were, he arrived out of their view. The electric avenger transmitted a coded message to Lightning Strike Omega’s communicator frequency on the outside chance he was monitoring it, and then casually joined the assassins’ ranks, east of the Cathedral.

Strike stood on a rooftop at sundown, between two men, who were each a rooftop away, standing in shadows.

Strike recognized them both [with a successful Criminal Subculture skill roll].

One was Catman, an expert infiltrator and thief who usually worked alone [see image].

The other was Dexter Sinister Jr., the psychotic court jester of crime, and bastard offspring of the former member of the Five Bosses, Dexter Sinister, now deceased. [see image]

“Innocent bystanders,” grinned Dexter Sinister Jr. merrily. “I do so love innocent bystanders. I don’t think… I’ve ever seen… so many… all at once!” His dark eyes twinkled with glee at the prospect.

Catman ignored Sinister and nodded at the Silent Killer. “We’re not enough yet for a siege. Won’t be long now, though.” His telescopic goggles adjusted automatically. “Sentinel is on the street. Talon’s in the air. Enough of Vanguard to go around, friend. Enough of Vanguard to go around.”

Meanwhile, inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral…

The Archbishop of New York said: “Do you, Nan, take Scott, to be your lawfully wedded husband?”

Nanite said, “I do!”

The Archbishop turned to Slingshot: “Do you, Scott, take Nan, to be your lawfully wedded wife?”

[Reply, Slingshot?]

To be continued, in Issue 152: Homicide Unlimited!

OOC: Actions? Have fun.

Current Conditions:

Avatar: Hit Points: 58, Power Points: 85, Manifestation: None

Clone: Bodies: 22, Hit Points: 1 each, Power Points: 43 each

Lightning Strike: Hit Points: 48, Power Points: 76, currently disguised as the Silent Killer.

Menagerie: Hit Points: 26, Power Points: 64, Form: Man

Sentinel: Hit Points: 30, Power Points: 68, Creation Points: 136

Slate: Hit Points: 35, Power Points: 73

Slingshot: Hit Points: 79, Power Points: 92, Invulnerability: 8

Symbiote: Hit Points: 91, Power Points: 94, Charges: 12, Copied: Talon

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

Avatar:

John is curious about this mysterious buyer. He enlists the aid of Symbiote with the idea of putting a few tracking devices in with the collection to see where it would finally reside.

At the wedding…

Avatar slips outside, heading toward Sentinel's location. He doesn't manifest any powers as of yet but, since the villains are fairly far away, he will begin to do so once he hears that they are on the move. He will manifest Heightened Endurance first and then Heightened Strength and will most likely choose to fight with a spear at this time, saving the sword for later.

(Jeff, considering your modifications to STR and AGI in regard to Hit Point modifier, I think that Avatar would have 172 hit points and 85 Power Points after the manifestations. To hit and damage modifiers remain the same, of course, but Car. Cap. goes to 5,026 lbs and HTH damage goes to 2d8.)

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

Slingshot:

Sentinel and Zephyr shared with Vanguard that they were a couple! [Replies, Vanguard?]

Nan and Scott decided to celebrate by inviting the other couple to a nice supper out on the town. Both couples have lots in common, between their work with REACH, they expect to have a great time with an excellent supper, some wine and maybe even some dancing?

…

Meanwhile, inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral…

The Archbishop of New York said: “Do you, Nan, take Scott, to be your lawfully wedded husband?”

Nanite said, “I do!”

The Archbishop turned to Slingshot: “Do you, Scott, take Nan, to be your lawfully wedded wife?”

Scott looked into Nanites eyes. Focused solely on her, holding her small hands in his, he took a moment and savored the fluttering he felt in his heart. "I do"

For the vows: "I had a long speech, but I'll make this short. Even though, it was the first time I ever met you, you supported me in a way that I hadn't seen since the accident that made me what I am now today. Since that time, I knew there was something special about you. You are special to me and I'm more than happy to spend the rest of my life with you."

[Pausing a moment to finish the ceremony, ring exchange and the signatures.]

He turns to the assembly and calmly speaks, "Thank you one and all for coming. This day is of special importance, not only for Nan and myself, but for all of the Supers community. I wish to thank you all for your support. As you well know, we have had a large campaign trying to call for understanding and acceptance. Obviously, it is also the occasion to make a statement against such it. We have been alerted that Vanguard has been chosen as the target of such a statement. There is no need to panic, you are likely safe here as possible, since all the members of Vanguard, including me, will be going outside to meet these people." He turns to Nan, kisses her deeply and whispers, " Keep them calm, if CHESS wishes to evacuate them, help and encourage." He smiles at her and says, "It's time to be brave again." This last was a inside joke regarding the first time they ever met. With that, he takes one giant step across the church, exits and closes the doors behind him.

Into the communicator, he tells CHESS to secure the assembly, if they can't bring them outside, possibly bring them into the basement.

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

Lightning Strike:

OOC: I will actually try to get ahead of the curve this time. I have one OOC question before deciding on my action. I want to know all about the two stooges that are on the roof with Silent Killer/Lightning Strike. Given that Strike made his underworld knowledge roll, do I have any feeling for how tough these two guys are. Strike would prefer to catch them both by surprise and hopefully take them out in one shot and then have Chess pick them up before anyone is the wiser but I would prefer not to blow my cover this early.

I will also attempt to wrap up the storyline with my uncle that I left hanging last issue.

Thanks,

Tony

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

GM:

OOC: Ahead of the curve? Well it's certainly the season for new year's resolutions. ;)

Merry Christmas!

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

Slingshot:

OOC: Merry Christmas Everyone!

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

Menagerie:

OOC: And a Happy New Year!

Awesome issue Jeff! I can't imagine how you and the players have keep Vanguard going strong for 150+ issues. It is a real accomplishment.

Viva Vanguard

Tom

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

GM:

OOC: Thanks.

Speaking for myself, it must be stubbornness. Or slow learning.

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

Slate:

Menagerie: He will watch Ethan from a distance and will have the animal kingdom keep him under surveillance whenever he leaves the Vault.

Slate: Slate awakened with the sun streaming through the window on his face. He glanced over at the clock on his nightstand… 7:00 glowed… it was always 7:00. He wondered at that for a moment, then got up and began to prepare for the day. He slipped on some Sweats and shoes and went to the kitchen to be greeted by his mother. Nanite seemed to always be there, always awake, always looking like she was just waiting for him to come in. She offered to fix him breakfast as she did everyday, but he declined and reached for a bowl and spoon. He found he was very fond of Fruity Oh’s. Nanite reminded him again that they had very little nutritional value, but he really liked the way they tasted…

They began the day with his studies, Nanite had convinced everyone that she was better prepared to teach Slate than any human teacher could be, and that certainly appeared to be the case. Subjects flew by; Slate had reached almost at a high school level in most of his subjects in only a few weeks. They utilized a desktop PC that Symboite and Doc Rocket had designed just for this purpose. It was loaded with educational software and reference materials, lacking only a modem or any type of connectivity software. Nanite taught Slate about the World Wide Web, and changes that had occurred in the world with the advent of the computer, but Ethan’s own experience in this area was extremely limited.

After they had finished the studies Nan had planned for the day, she gave Ethan some time to “Play.” He had learned very quickly that the games that had been loaded on the computer held no challenge. The way Ethan saw things; they were all very much like the pen and paper game tic tac toe. If you did what you were supposed to do, you always won or tied, and Ethan could always see what he was supposed to do. It wasn’t that he was cheating; it’s just that he could always tell what response the computer was looking for. It was like he was seeing the code through application, all he had to do was enter what the programmer had created, and match that response. Whether it was a move, a button press, or a word made no difference. They all looked the same to Ethan. He did however enjoy being able to do free studies, and began to research some subjects that were not in his mother’s curriculum. The pressing topic of the day was farm animals…

Later, he snuck to the door as he prepared to go down to the gym. He quickly threw open the door, startling the small white goat standing there. It quickly darted down the hall and around the corner. Slate smiled, he’d caught the goat following him around the vault over the last week. It was always out of the way, hanging back, around a corner, or up a flight of stairs, but always following him. Today, Ethan had a surprise for his little shadow. He pulled a baby carrot from his pocket, laid it on the ground, and slowly walked away. He glanced over his shoulder to see the goat come out of hiding and cautiously approach the carrot. Unable to resist, it took the bait. Ethan stopped and watched as it quickly chewed the carrot. He laid another on the ground, and again walked away, but not as far. Again and again he performed this process until the goat was only a few steps away, and then he gently held a carrot out to the goat. Cautiously it approached, quickly grabbed the carrot and fled. Patiently, Ethan tried again. After only a few more carrots, it no longer fled. He cautiously reached out and brushed his hand along its nose, which was moist and soft. The goat stood, rigid. Slate’s hand moved up over its head, between the horns, and behind its ear, gently scratching. The goat’s eyes closed in obvious pleasure. After this the goat began to openly follow Ethan around.

After making a friend, he headed down to the gym, Seargant Stone was there waiting for him. He had become Ethan’s self appointed coach. He put Ethan through his paces, first on the treadmill, then free weights, then in the ring. Ethan pummeled away at Seargant Stone, who calmly walked around giving advice. A couple of times he would take a light swing when Ethan wasn’t keeping his guard up, or keeping an eye on his opponent, sometimes sending Ethan sprawling across the ring, but that happens less and less.

Vanguard was agreed. They would license their likenesses for an animated series, over which they would have final approval. Felicity Chase was thrilled. She’d begin securing a toy partner right away. And she pushed Slingshot hard to permit Slate to be in the series, “Imagine what the show could do for him,” she said. “Don’t you want your son to be loved by millions of kids?” To Alex’s question about voice talent, Felicity replied, “There’d be no harm in asking. Sign here.”

[Replies? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

IC: To Slingshot, “C’mon dad, it would be soo cool.”

Clone, Sentinel and Symbiote tracked down a cold lead on the lost lab of Dr. Swastika, in what was once Nazi Germany and what was now behind the Iron Curtain in Soviet-controlled East Germany. Satellite imagery showed an indistinct structure in the target area. Ajay said, “Only thing I can say for sure is that there’s something there.”

Symbiote was more than willing to join any covert effort to find out what's going on at this mysterious bunker.

OOC: Slate really wants to be involved in this, if everyone turns him down, he will try to stow away and go anyway.

Symbiote, Sentinel, Slingshot, Menagerie and Doc Rocket began to plan another expedition to the Digital Zone! Symbiote agreed with Slingshot and Sentinel that it’s prudent to wait until they have more information about current events in the Zone. He'll continue blueprint work on the craft and design a few probes to launch into the zone, hopefully to get some telemetry about the current situation. [Replies if any? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

Slate floated in a world black with billions of glowing chrysalis gossamers that formed shapes, landscapes, cities of data. The gossamers connected to billions of diadem screens, windows into our world. More gossamer strands erected a reverse angle cyber reflection of a digital Vault. He looked around in awe. As he scanned his immediate area, a figure approached. As it drew closer, he could tell that it was male, but little else, it appeared to be similar in shape and age to himself.

As it drew near it spoke, “Welcome young one.” Slate was surprised, its mouth had not moved, but he clearly heard the words… “Who are you”, he thought back and equally surprisingly, it appeared to hear him. “That is not important right now, I am here to make you comfortable, and to answer any questions you might have.” Slate’s mind raced, he tried to remember how he had come to be here… even as the thought crossed his mind the figure seemed to know it. “You are not physically here,” it silently intoned. “Part of you is always here, but you are not conscious of that, yet. For now, you are only able to come here when your higher functions are disengaged. Unfortunately, that means you will not remember our interactions clearly when you awaken.” “Awaken,” Slate thought, “Am I asleep, is this a dream?” “This is not a dream, the figure responded, “You do dream, and those dreams have wrought havoc here at times. I/We are hoping that by creating an interface for you, those turbulent, interactions can be lessened. For now, you are about to cycle. I/We will be here when you return, do not be concerned. We have much to speak of.”

With that Ethan becomes aware of light streaming through a window, and looks at his nightstand, 7:00 blinks at him…

Slingshot: He turns to the assembly and calmly speaks, "Thank you one and all for coming. This day is of special importance, not only for Nan and myself, but for all of the Supers community. I wish to thank you all for your support. As you well know, we have had a large campaign trying to call for understanding and acceptance. Obviously, it is also the occasion to make a statement against such it. We have been alerted that Vanguard has been chosen as the target of such a statement. There is no need to panic, you are likely safe here as possible, since all the members of Vanguard, including me, will be going outside to meet these people." He turns to Nan, kisses her deeply and whispers, " Keep them calm, if CHESS wishes to evacuate them, help and encourage." He smiles at her and says, "It's time to be brave again." This last was a inside joke regarding the first time they ever met. With that, he takes one giant step across the church, exits and closes the doors behind him.

Into the communicator, he tells CHESS to secure the assembly, if they can't bring them outside, possibly bring them into the basement.

OOC: No way Slate is missing this… his friends in action, someone attacking his parents wedding, and making his mother unhappy… someone’s going to pay…

IC: Slate watches as the Chess Agents start to evacuate the wedding attendees, moving them to “safer” areas. But his eyes are really on the door Slingshot exited the building through. Not having a communicator, the only information he’s got is what’s been said aloud, and he feels an odd sensation/emotion for the first time, anger. This is not right, today was to be a happy time for his family, and someone is intruding on what should be a celebration. Slate begins to deliberately stride toward the door with intentions of finding whoever is responsible and stopping them. If anyone enters the Cathedral with what appears to be maliced intentions, he will strike. First attack would be to destroy any obvious devices/weapons, then focusing on confusion/damage… I don’t think he’d directly use his disintegration power on a living being without being thoroughly provoked, but he’d drop lighting, pillars, sections of ceiling etc… on them, or open up the floor if they do not appear to have flight to take them out of the . If no one appears he will follow Slingshot outside, and try to prevent anyone from entering.

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Sentinel:

OOC: Loved the goat scene :)

Seth is very interested in the Ethan dream sequence under the Digital Zone (knowing Kirk knows nothing about it) ... nice stuff for us for future character development/plotline.

With everything else happening and with Ethan first 'learning' its too soon, but we do need to introduce him soon in a secure controlled environment (as best we can with his talents) to the online world and see what happens...

Kirk will definitely take an interest in Ethan's computer skills - Kirk has an affinity for the computers and their language and how they work; I'd guess that Ethan's talent will easily and quickly surpass Kirk based on your little description regarding the computer games - Ethan lives the tech. This could be something that bonds them a bit since Kirk sees the world differently than most with his energy sense and when it comes to the computers, Ethan might be the only one that could bring a perspective to Kirk beyond what he's had before. That's pretty cool.

Seth

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Lightning Strike:

Strike/Silent Killer observes Catman and Dexter Sinister Jr. and after sizing up their abilities he figures he can take them out relatively quickly. He gets close to the two of them but slightly behind them while the three of them are observing Vanguard.

"He speaks to them softly. What separates Vanguard from us is that they have a strategy all the time. We can't rush into this without a plan."

Strike gestures as if to huddle up with the two of them while still observing Vanguard. As they huddle, Strike attempts to quickly electrocute both of them. Hopefully it will surprise them and they can't roll with it so it will knock them unconscious. Once they are incapacitated, Strike will radio Chess to pick them covertly so as to not bring attention to the rest of the assembled assassins.

Happy New Year,

Tony

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Slingshot:

If he manages to get out of the cathedral this turn, then he will target the closest assailant. He will stay within one move of the cathedral (which can be a pretty big area for Slingshot). If there is no close/easy target, he will stand at the main entrance, holding his move.

[Replies? This plotline will be picked up after the wedding]

IC: To Slingshot, “C’mon dad, it would be soo cool.”

Scott looks at Ethan pensively, then grins, "Talk to your mother." At his son's long face, he says, "Sure, but we need to keep you as mysterious as possible. A sidekick or the kid that get in trouble at least at first."

Into the communicator, he tells CHESS to secure the assembly, if they can't bring them outside, possibly bring them into the basement.

OOC: No way Slate is missing this… his friends in action, someone attacking his parents wedding, and making his mother unhappy… someone’s going to pay…

[OOC: Scott will be intent on protecting the cathedral. He won't notice Slate getting out until he's targetted or he makes a big flashy move]

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GM:
OOC: "Talk to your mother."

That's awesome!

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Slingshot:

OOC: Being a father of a bunch of rugrats, these kinds of lines come easily.. :)

The best part is when you get the "I already did! She said to talk to you."

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Slate:

OOC: That was going to be my response. :)

All rugrats are the same... "She said it's OK with her if it's OK with you..."

OOC: Slate is OK with be represented as a "non-powered sidekick," if it means he can be included in the animated series.

Jon

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Menagerie:

OOC: Yeah I love when that happens too.

It is even better when she is in the room so you can give her "the look"

Tom

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Clone:

Vanguard Animated Series

Without saying a word Alex smiles and picks up the contract and begins to examine it closely. He’s seen enough of the world to know that he shouldn’t sign something without first reading it, but unfortunately for Clone his English isn’t strong enough to carry him past the first couple of lines of the document. Trying desperately not to look lost or uneducated, Clone takes a quick peek at the other members of Vanguard to see if they’re signing their contracts. As soon as the first of the pens begin to hit his friends contracts, Clone reaches for a pen and then looks over at Felicity and says, “Well, I am reading over contract most carefully and everything is seeming to be in order as it should be.” He then smiles once more and politely hands the document back to her.

Sentinel and Zephyr

Caught completely off guard by this announcement, Clone’s eyebrows raise as he quickly turns his attention towards Hal to see his reaction to all of this.

Doctor ‘X’ Sub-Plot

Clone still unsure what to make of all of this sits back quietly as his friends discuss the details of what they’ve uncovered with Grey. Still uncertain where he stands with the Director of C.H.E.S.S. and confident that his friends will help him to the best of their ability, Alex lets Sentinel and Symbiote do exactly what it was that he had hoped they would do – help him uncover the truth of his past.

( OOC: Sorry for not dropping a larger narrative down on this one, but I truly feel that Clone wouldn’t be talking much at this point. He would probably just be sitting there as the other three speak to each other - sought of like a child listening to three adults speaking. Clone knows he’s not sure how to proceed with all of this – that’s why he went to Sentinel and Symbiote in the first place. He’ll go along with whatever they say because he knows that he can count on them to help him the best they can. )

Mother Russia

Mother Russia smirked. “The problem with mad scientists is: you never know if all they’re after is your DNA.” Clone paused for a moment as she said this and just looked at her blankly, wondering if she knew more about Doctor ‘X’ then she was letting on. As she examined the picture he drew, Clone became lost in his own thoughts and tried desperately to see if he could figure out some kind of hidden meaning within her words. He snapped out of his self induced trance when she started to speak to him in Russian, “Alex. Still with the sensitive soul of an artist. It’s beautiful. But do you think it could be another color than red?"

Clone smiled gently, put aside his thoughts and started to draw up another costume using something other then red in the design. As his pen moved from side to side, Clone said to her in Russian, “Yeah; I almost forgot, that was one of the first things I changed about my costume as well.” He then presented her with another design and said through a devilish smirk in English, “How are you feeling of tight black leather?”

( OOC: see attached art for his costume suggestion )

The Wedding

As the members of Vanguard begin to prepare for what’s to come, Clone decides to take more of a defensive position. Reducing the number of duplicates from twenty-two down to thirteen ( OOC: figuring that he may need more then 1HP to get through this ), one stays with the other members of Vanguard outside the cathedral, one stays with Rachael Ray, one stays near Slate and Nanite, and the remaining ten take up guard positions ( OOC: He does not deploy his Staff Weapon inside the cathedral – he doesn’t feel that it would be right to do so in such a holy place. ) near the entrances and exits of the cathedral.

Should anyone that doesn’t need to exit ( i.e. members of Vanguard, The President, etc. ); tries to exit the cathedral, he will politely assure that there is nothing to be worried about and then asks them to return to their seats for just a few minutes while the other members of Vanguard make sure that everything is safe outside of the building.

Rachael Ray

Clone’s nervous energy gets the best of him unfortunately, and he can’t help but start to chew the ‘woman of his dreams’ ear off as Vanguard begins to secure the perimeter of the cathedral. Not realizing that she’s probably frightened by all the commotion outside, Clone takes the opportunity to act like a love sick schoolboy; he carries on about the first time that he saw her show, the first recipe he heard her discussing, thanking her for coming as his date, asking her why she is single, and so on.

Should she inquire why he’s not outside with the other members of Vanguard helping hem fight, he will continue on with his love struck banter as if he didn’t even hear the question and respond, “ . . . perhaps if it so that you are not being so busy, that you be might be coming to meet my mother. She is most excited to be meeting with you after it is that I am telling her that you are here being my date today.”

OOC:

Should Rachael Ray, Slate or Nanite become endangered while inside of the cathedral, Clone will throw himself in front of them and use himself as a human shield to defend their safety and well being.

As for Rachael Ray – I don’t think Clone is suave enough to be able to hook up with her – I could be wrong though. I think his poor command of the English language and his lack of worldly experience would just jam-up any chances he might have with her, but then again she might dig that kind of honest and naïve approach. I’m dying to know where this is going to go Jeff – no matter what happens with it though I’m sure its going to be fun, and I want to thank you for indulging my wacky character development =)

Talk to you all soon,

- Kev

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Sentinel:

OOC: FYI, haven't had time to read more recent player posts, so apologies if I cross anything done by others. And sorry to post last minute.

IC: Nan and Scott decided to celebrate by inviting the other couple to a nice supper out on the town. Both couples have lots in common, between their work with REACH, they expect to have a great time with an excellent supper, some wine and maybe even some dancing?

Kirk checks with Shelly to schedule the date (and Seth hopes Jeff allows us a nice evening).

To clarify Kirk isn’t trying to put this off and definitely wants in on anything done here. His idea was to have an undercover agent gather some intel on the area (ie photos) to see if anything appeared suspicious or out of the ordinary as well as to get us specs on the area so we could be prepared. It would take a number of days to get something like this scheduled for us to go and during that time some intel could be gathered… it’s not like we can just fly in and land overtly without causing an international incident here. Kirk also suggests that any members involved have a ‘crash’ course in undercover ops from Chess or the sister organization that handles this sort of thing. We need to be as prepared as we can and know best how to keep from causing an international incident here… but Kirk wants in when any of Vanguard is going in and would certainly be against any of the team going in without ‘super’ backup.

Sentinel, Symbiote and Menagerie soon made their cautious approach on the cabin and found Hank Archer alone. “More capes?” he snarled when they revealed themselves. “I’ve had it with all of you!” [Replies?]

“Hank, I can understand how angry you are about everything that has happened. You know I’ve respected you from the day we met. We know that you were controlled by the Black Bat and framed and have been working hard to prove it and get you released. We know that the Lightning Strike from the Omegaverse broke you out. Surely someone who dedicating his life to upholding the law doesn’t want to spend the rest of it running from it. We want you to get your life and your name back and as much as we wish you could continue free now, you won’t get it back that way. You need to surrender yourself so we can continue working on your release and on clearing your name.”

CHESS Agent Drake’s unflappable, unhappy voice came over the communicators, “I am. Is it too soon to say we wish you had followed our recommendations for the wedding? You won’t have air cover. Repeat, there are no birds in the air. We’re not firing live rounds inside Manhattan.

“Understood Drake. Solid thinking, as always. Since it appears Vanguard is the primary targets we’ll pull away from the church area as best we can to take the fight away from it and bystanders.” Kirk spoke into his communicator so all of Vanguard could hear this also. “If things change regarding targeting, you need to let us know. There has to be more at play here. Harrik is one of the most experienced and calculating foes we’ve fought. He chooses his team very specifically. Open auditions aren’t his style. So the scrubs out there are either to soften us up so he can come in with his A Team afterward or to distract us from his true objective here … either way we need to be alert for his real move …” and Kirk paused a moment, “and maybe that’s our move here now.”

Nearby, CHESS Knights were speaking with electronically amplified voices: “Everyone! Please leave the area! We have reports of trouble! This area is no longer safe! Please leave!”

Kirk fully energized and formed a device to amplify his voice as he rose. “Citizens, unfortunately this is not an act. It is not a show. Please listen to the CHESS Knights and cooperate with the NYPD to disperse and leave this area as quickly and orderly as possible.”

Kirk fully energized took to the sky towards the villains he saw or sensed. He offered a ride upward and over to any of Vanguard that didn’t have flight or easy scaling ability and dropped them above on a roof. As he did so he spoke to Ajay stating, “I don’t take the clouds rolling in as coincidence, it appears we have a rogue with weather control here. During the attempted breakout at CHESS Castle I took out a thug there, I think Elemento was his name. He still locked down?”

Kirk took a place hovering above one of the buildings in area and his energy forming a giant image of his face amplifying his voice through the skies.

(OOC, yes, now Kirk really does have a ‘big mouth’, thought you’d appreciate it :) )

“You dare come on this day to this holy place, a place of peace, with murderous intent?!?” he shouted across the skies. Kirk’s normally warm face was now anything but that as it lit up the sky. “Look around you. Do you really think Harrik is seriously considering the lot of you? You are his cannon fodder! There is no element of surprise here. We know everything. Vanguard is ready for you. And we are angry! You have been set up by The Mercenary to fail. You will fall and you will fall hard. We give you one chance. Turn and run! NOW!”

OOC: Fear rolls for the lot of them please and perhaps some common sense rolls for any with enough intelligence to really think about all this …

Action: If Kirk can sense Elemento (or see him) or another foe in the sky he will use his energy as a huge battering ram to hopefully smash them away from the area. I’d love for the villains, after hearing Kirk telling them to turn and run, to see one of their own just ‘battered’ away giving any on the fence some incentive to take off and leave. If there is no flying foe that he thinks he can hit in that manner (although if someone is hidden in the clouds and he could knock them out of them without them even being seen until they are pummeled that would be pretty cool) then he’ll go for a rooftop with multiple thugs (not the one with Strike) and he’ll ‘drop the hammer’ on them. A huge construct hammer big enough to strike the whole roof area at once and hit the lot of them with crushing force – I’m looking for some sort of big show to go with the words to get some of them to leave… although since Hal is flying around with Talon’s power, speed, and ferocity, they should quickly find one of their own turned to shish-ke-bob and with Avatar soon to bring the wrath of the Gods down on them, a ‘show’ might not be needed here. Seth

PS: Gotta love the fishnets ...

Seth

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Lightning Strike:

OOC: So much for subtlety big mouth!! Going undercover works really well when a giant face appears above everyone!! I think Strike will go after Sentinel just to make this realistic!!

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GM:

OOC: This reminds me of the new JLA #1. Batman to Green Lantern: “Turn that thing off! You’re too bright!”

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Lightning Strike:

OOC: I can honestly say that I have never accused Sentinel of being too bright!!

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Avatar:

OOC: ...but he sure is enthusiastic! Gotta love him.

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Menagerie:

Following Sentinel's lead Menagerie turns into Eagle taking to the sky. He will use his heightened senses to identify all the assassins in the area. He will thought send their coordinates for the rest of the team. He is providing surveillance and intelligence gathering for Vanguard to help coordinate attacks and make sure no one can attack Vanguard by surprise.

Viva Vanguard

Tom

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Sentinel:

OOC: Tony, They don't know how we know anything here. Your cover is intact (or as intact as you keep it once you start taking out villains).

The Knights and the NYPD were already trying to clear the crowds and Vanguard had left the wedding and was already taking to the streets - it is obvious that we knew an attack was imminent. How does stating it and that we know Harrik is behind it blow your cover?

Harrik had 'open auditions' and word of it was out on the street. Chatter about it and an informant could have come from any number of sources. Vanguard knowing it doesn't equal Strike is disguised as a villain and trying to infiltrate HFH. Any of the possible candidates could have been turned. In fact, any of them that don't show their face here or turn and run would be a suspect as to the leak as opposed to someone present.

And what Kirk said is true - Harrik's MO is to choose his team for their skill set and what he needs for the job ... not to audition and bunch of unknowns and hope for the best. If he had an 'open call' it was calculated ... for another reason ... and Kirk's stating it about his motive is likely right.

And at this point getting a chunk of these clowns to take off without endangering the bystanders is top priority.

Seth

PS: Actually, if after this attack it leaves a scenario where you are still trying to infiltrate HFH (hopefully they are captured) you could use this as a means to cover up your attacking one or two of the other villains (ie you discovered they were the leak).

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Menagerie:

OOC: How about this so it is obvious who told Vanguard the attack was coming.

IC: Menagerie informs Vanguard he senses the presence of Fly.

OOC: Sentinel can inform the villains that Vanguard has the ability to sense their presence. The Fly warned them of their coming as his presence is a beacon to Menagerie. I am okay with Sentinel naming Menagerie as being the one who sense the attack coming. It would add to his mystical rep.

Tom

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Sentinel:

OOC: I'm fine with that if it helps with any concerns here ...

Seth

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Symbiote:

In Regard To Dr. X: Symbiote is ready for any covert training necessary. He REALLY wishes he'd had the opportunity to absorb the powers of Skin Deep for this, but it is what it is.

In Regard To The Digital Zone: Just waiting on the telemetry from the probes, nothing else to contribute at this time.

In Regard to Avatar and his artifacts: Hal will be happy to help design bugs/tracers that blend in with the design of the collection.

In Regard to Hank Archer: Hal will hang back, still not sure if Hank knows his secret identity or not. If Hank comes willingly, so be it. If Hank wants to leave on his own Hal will not arrest him, however, knowing that he's been a victim of false charges

In Regard to The Audition: Time to pick a partner, Hal thinks to himself, still infuriated at the attack on a sacred day for Vanguard. He hears Sentinel bellowing a challenge to all comers. Let's show them we mean business.

And with that, Symbiote picks one of the villains not silhouetted by the sun--therefore assuming he himself will be coming at an opponent from the direction of the sun. He climbs high and then divebombs for The Fly.

Hal's priorities are (in the following order)

1. Protect bystanders.

2. Protect Slate, if he sees him in trouble (Slate is new to this, after all, and Hal feels avuncular towards him).

3. Protect the Cathedral.

4. Inflict serious damage on these clowns.

Viva Vanguard,

Greg

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GM:

OOC: Thanks Greg.

The non-wedding threads are on hold til after the wedding day fight but wanted to mention:

I think the Digital Zone portal has always been just a window. Other portals have transported to it but it’s a viewer in this world. Vanguard built a portal in the Omega-verse but that was a one shot invention.

You, and anyone else that wants to that has the proper skills, will need to spend Luck Points like Inventing Points to make the viewer a portal. Then I'll need one more to invent the interdimensional probes.

Thanks.

Best,

Jeff

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Symbiote:

OOC: OK. We'll hold off on all of that for now, see if I have to use any luck/invention points in the upcoming fight first.

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Vanguard: Issue 150: Going to the Chapel.

2011-12-18T09:54:00.000-06:00

Nanite looked at herself in the full length mirror. She was in her wedding dress. It looked beautiful.

There was a knock at the door and Shelley Harper stuck her head in. “It’s time,” she said. Then: “Oh, Nan.”

Nanite picked up her bouquet from the chair, smiled and said, “This is it.”

Shelley brought her down to the limo that would take them to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The last few months had been a surreal whirlwind. She had agreed to it all, out of hopes that it could improve the lives of extranormals, especially her son, but things felt like they were getting out of control. Probably because they were. In the car, Nanite’s mind returned to the events that had led to this moment, not all of them pleasant.

[Flashback!]

Moments after the birth of Ethan, there was an argument in the delivery room. Menagerie ranted about her son, and Slingshot and Sentinel defused the situation but not before Nanite recovered from the shock of her bouncing baby boy.

SMACK! Nanite slapped Menagerie’s face. “How dare you?! Get out!” She put her arms protectively around her full grown son and watched until Menagerie left. [Replies, any and all?]

In those crazy months of celebrity and fame since…

Some of Vanguard had expressed a positive opinion toward an animated series about Vanguard. As their defacto publicity agent, Felicity Chase said to the assembled team, “Unless any of you have any reservations, I’ll contact the animation studio and have them draw up the papers. Speak now or forever hold your peace.” [Replies, everyone?]

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 got them access to 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.

Sentinel wondered: “Do we have the location of the lab? Was it in Soviet territory or elsewhere?”

The report showed Swastika’s lab to be in what was Nazi Germany and what is now Soviet-controlled East Germany, behind the Iron Curtain.

Sentinel asked Ajay, a CHESS Rook, “Can you 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?”

In time, satellite imagery shows an indistinct structure in the target area. “Sorry I can’t get it any better,” Ajay said unhappily. “Only thing I can say for sure is that there’s something there.” [Replies if any]

Symbiote arranged a meeting between Vanguard and Mother Russia, who was sad to hear that Talon had quit. Of Doctor X she said: “He was very mysterious, as Clone could tell you. Often absent for long periods of time. A brilliant mind. He can invent superheroes. Or should I say super powers.”

She also said, “I want a new costume and name to disassociate myself from my former homeland, but can’t decide what.” [Replies? Clone’s trip to the Soviet Embassy occurs “weeks after the wedding” which we haven’t reached yet. Stay tuned!]

Grey and Sentinel were arguing again. Sentinel ended with: “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.”

Grey grumbled, “Haven’t I had your back all this time, kid?”

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?”

Grey replied, “I just said they’ve ordered a rush job, before the wedding.”

MEDUSA respectfully turns down Vanguard’s offer of assistance in the transfer of the prisoners. After the fact, Vanguard learns that the transfer of Vanguard Omega, and their insertion into Hotsleep, goes off without a hitch. [Replies, if any?]

Seeing his obvious dissatisfaction, Grey spoke to Sentinel privately. “Without tipping MEDUSA off to your telepathy, I can’t force an interview with their prisoners. They thoroughly answered all of your submitted, written questions.” [See last issue. Reply, if any?]

Sentinel and Zephyr were a couple. When Sentinel asked her if they should tell Hal and the rest of Vanguard, she replied, “Why not? We’re not doing anything wrong. Unless of course you’re ashamed of me!” she said jokingly. “Let’s tell everyone before the wedding.” [Reply, Sentinel?]

Symbiote, Sentinel, Slingshot and Doc Rocket began to plan another expedition to the Digital Zone!!!

Menagerie asked to be included in the plans. Symbiote began designing an amazing exploration vehicle, but Slingshot expressed that it might be too ambitious an undertaking. [Replies? Resolve, please.]

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!"

John insisted on meeting with Sotheby’s and given the amount of money at stake, the auction house agreed. John manifested the oratory and diplomatic ability of the Olympians to learn more about the anonymous buyer.

Sotheby’s buying agent replied, “You’ve no need to worry. Your collection will be in good hands that appreciate its worth. The buyer is a scholar himself, and a collector of antiquities. But he is a very private man. I don’t believe you would have heard of him.” This seemed to rule out Silas Caine. [Replies?]

Menagerie had the animal kingdom watch The Patriot. Their reports indicate that he is away from Silas Caine too often to be a bodyguard.

The shamanic sorcerer continued his lessons with Archimedes and asked him what threatens the Natural Order. The great owl turned his head completely around to regard Frank with two large reflective eyes. He spoke in the language of birds: “Your duty is to defend Nature, aye. But the manner of your death has shaped your focus. Distorted it. Because you died defending animals you think your duty is to defend the animal kingdom. But there is so much more to Nature than that. Open your mind, boy. What do you think Nature is and how we might best serve it?” [Reply, Menagerie?]

Slate and Symbiote got pizza and Slate disintegrated the cameras of some paparazzi! The next day, not surprisingly, he received bad press that wondered about his humanity, and by extension, his mother’s. [Weakness: Prejudice]

Lightning Strike reached the cabin ahead of Sentinel, Symbiote and Menagerie. 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!

POW! Archer crashed a big fist into Strike’s jaw! (OOC: 10 points of damage! Strike rolls with 7 and takes 3 from hits)

"No Hank, my wife is not alive anymore. She was not transformed in the way I was,” Strike replied as he tried to restrain the big cop.

Archer threw another punch and missed! He was clearly drunk.

Archer growled belligerently but stopped throwing punches for now.

“He’s not here,” snarled Archer. “And he told me you’d say that. He said to tell you, of course I don’t know where he is. Would you have told me that?”

Strike knew that Vanguard would soon arrive, and that Archer was technically an escaped convict.

[Replies, actions, Strike?]

Nanite snapped out of it. [End flashbacks] Her car was six blocks from the cathedral now and stopped dead from the crowds that had packed the streets to catch a glimpse of the event of the decade!

The driver’s horn played the first few notes of “Here Comes the Bride,” and the crowd screamed and reluctantly opened a path. Cameras flashed, and TV cameramen pushed to get a shot. The television rights had brought in millions of dollars. She and Scott agreed that after the circus of a wedding was paid for, the remainder would go to REACH.

The limo finally reached the curb before St. Patrick’s and Doc Rocket was waiting for her. The bells of the cathedral rang out. In black tie, Doc opened the door and helped her out. Barricades, NYPD and a CHESS Knight Honor Guard held the screaming crowd at bay. The noise was deafening. Doc said, “You look simply lovely, my dear. Scott is a very lucky man.”

Nanite turned to take in the staggering crowds and noticed a large statue of Atlas across Fifth Avenue and thought of Avatar.

Every seat in the monolithic, 133 year old, Neo-Gothic, Roman Catholic Cathedral was taken. Shelley went down the aisle first and everyone stood up and turned around to see the beautiful bride.

As Nanite lowered her veil, she saw Scott at the end of an infinitely long carpet, with Ethan, Nathan Lamb, Vanguard, Sgt. Stone, and Archbishop Dolan of the Archdiocese of New York standing beside him. The organ began playing and Doc Rocket walked Nanite down the aisle slowly, dabbing his eyes only once with a handkerchief. The throngs outside could be clearly heard above the organ.

As Nanite saw who was in attendance she thought that Felicity Chase had certainly done her job. Lady Gaga, the President of the United States, Bono, Johnny Depp, George Clooney and Rachel Ray, who was Clone’s date, smiled at her as she passed, just to name a few. One Clone sat with Rachel and a fleet of Clone ushers lined the cathedral walls.

She also saw Scott’s estranged family. She had been worried about whether they would attend or not. If Scott’s father and brother had been unaccepting of Scott’s new appearance, they seemed even less happy with his choice of a bride. Scott’s uncle, aunt and cousin were beaming, though.

Nanite was crying tears of joy by the time she reached Scott. The couple held hands, the congregation was seated and the Archbishop of New York said:

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the presence of God, in the face of this congregation, and these witnesses, to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony. We, their families and friends, form a community of love that together we may support and encourage them with our abundance of prayers and blessings on this day and for all of their lives.”

“Go to St. Patrick’s Cathedral immediately.

Any of you that kills a member of Vanguard passes the audition and becomes a member of Homicide for Hire.

Good luck.”

To be continued!

OOC: Actions?!

I need to know what you’re doing for the next few minutes.

I’ll assume that Strike will share this info with Vanguard, so please assume you all know what it says.

Strike, HOW will you share this info?

Thanks.

Have fun,

Jeff

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

Avatar:

Some of Vanguard had expressed a positive opinion toward an animated series about Vanguard. As their defacto publicity agent, Felicity Chase said to the assembled team, “Unless any of you have any reservations, I’ll contact the animation studio and have them draw up the papers. Speak now or forever hold your peace.”

John will advise them on his powers and give them a different take than reality. John will represent his powers are largely derived from Ares alone and will focus on strength and weapons skills and will leave out anything beyond that.

**********

Sotheby’s buying agent replied, “You’ve no need to worry. Your collection will be in good hands that appreciate its worth. The buyer is a scholar himself, and a collector of antiquities. But he is a very private man. I don’t believe you would know him.” This seemed to rule out Silas Caine. [Replies?]

John will try and force the issue (diplomatically, of course). He would like to meet the buyer to assure himself that his life's work will be going to someone who would appreciate it.

**********

Rachel Ray, who was Clone’s date

LOVE THAT!!!!!!!!!!!

**********

OOC: Actions?! I need to know what you’re doing for the next few minutes. I’ll assume that Strike will share this info with Vanguard, so please assume you all know what it says.

John is in full Avatar regalia as he would be expected to be representing Vanguard on this occasion. Not knowing how soon something might happen, he won't activate any powers but will be on alert and ready to act.

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

Slingshot:

OOC:

Another great issue. Wow 150? I hadn't realized. That's quite a set of weeks.

How many people will be going for our heads? I'm just worried for the innocent bystanders.

Let me ponder this one a bit.

Clone/Rachel Ray - Nice!

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

Clone:

OOC:

150th Issue! Do we get a special 3D, Glow-In-The-Dark, Anniversary Cover with that?!? =D

Re: Rachel Ray:

Woo-Hoo!!! Too bad she's married ( at least I think she is ), otherwise Clone would have to pull his 'Ultra-Special Ukrainian Love Mojo' out on her, and try to get himself a new girlfriend! LOL ;)

Absolutely terrific issue Jeff, I was reading it the whole time saying, " . . . no way! No way . . . really?!? Holy Hanna . . . no way!" =O

As for 'good pizza in NYC' - most of the places in NYC are decent, but for really AWESOME pizza though you have to head out to Brooklyn or Queens ;)

Talk to you guys soon,

- Kev

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Menagerie:

OOC: Wonderful issue! Jeff. I am very proud to be a part of issue 150. Such Awesomeness!!

IC: SMACK! Nanite slapped Menagerie’s face. “How dare you?! Get out!” She put her arms protectively around her full grown son and watched until Menagerie left.

"Well at least she had a human response in her, I was afraid she was only a beautiful machine" Menagerie thought as he walked to his room.

…

Menagerie agrees to it but wants his death not put in the story. Make it where he is a Park Ranger given the ability to change into a Bear, Eagle, or Wolf forms only by the spirit of our National Parks to protect nature. He is still a Park Ranger and appears in that uniform when off superhero duty. Play up the 'Green Movement' with him. He can give the "Don't Pollute", "Always Recycle" and "Use Alternative Energy Sources" speeches thereby meeting the FCC requirements that kids shows be educational as well as fun (Well, the FCC doesn't care if it is fun but we do).

…

Menagerie had the animal kingdom watch The Patriot. Their reports indicate that he is away from Silas Caine too often to be a bodyguard.

He reported his findings to Sentinel and Slingshot. "It would appear the whole initiative is PR only. There isn't a reason in the future that Caine can see that requires him to have superhero albeit normal human bodyguard. It would appear the Presidential Campaign is his true purpose."

…

Archimedes spoke in the language of birds: “Your duty is to defend Nature, aye. But the manner of your death has shaped your focus. Distorted it. Because you died defending animals, you think your duty is to defend the animal kingdom. But there is so much more to Nature than that. Open your mind, boy. What do you think Nature is and how we might best serve it?”

OOC: Okay Jeff, you blew my mind here. I was literally shocked when I read this. Wow. Indeed, this really challenged me. I said WOW right?

IC: "I would do my best of open my mind. But an open mind is worthless unless it is filled. Please Archimedes fill my mind, teach me about Nature. What it is, what it means, and how to best serve it. If needed, take me to others who can teach me as well."

…

I’ll assume that Strike will share this info with Vanguard, so please assume you all know what it says.

Menagerie will contact the bird and rat kingdoms to determine if the assassins have arrived yet. If signaled by Sentinel to act, he would discretely move out of view of the wedding guests and take the form of the Spider. He would go to the assassin(s) which are least accessible to Clone. If it is in an environment that is not accessible by Spider form he will change into the form that is. If he knows about the assassin(s) and their accessibility before he changes into Spider he will change in that form first once he is out of sight of the guests.

Best

Tom

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

Menagerie:

OOC: Seth, I was thinking the same thing about Rachelone (Failed merging of Rachel and Clone names) but with the Soviet Union still standing, isn't it Jeff's call whether Rachel Ray is married or not.

So Jeff, are you going to break Clone's heart or not?

Is Rachel Ray married? Vanguard wants to know.

Best

Tom

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

Sentinel:

OOC: I thought the same thing ... Rachel Ray's life could be different in the Vanguardverse ...

so yes, Jeff, inquiring minds want to know.

I want to know.

Seth

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

Clone:

OOC:

Seth/Sentinel wrote: “I 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' ...”

Peter David? That's quite a compliment; although I would argue that I'm not nearly as good of a writer as he is, I do really appreciate the compliment. I often worry that I may be throwing something along those lines into my responses ( i.e. the coffee bit ) and that it might come off as 'over the top', so I truly do thank you for the positive feedback on it.

And for the record - you're no slouch yourself there Seth, I always look forward to reading your posts. The amount of effort and thought that you put into each of them is very apparent. Your responses are always done in such a way that anyone reading through a few issues could easily tell what kind of character Sentinel is without even reading his background. Week after week you always put out terrific responses without fail; even when you could easily slip by with a much shorter and less detailed one, you always seem to go that extra mile - well done sir!

Thanks again Seth.

That's a really great point, Tom - I never considered the possibility that in the Vanguard Universe she might not be married. How interesting would that be lol? This might just turn out to be a very 'interesting' turn of events after all lol ;)

Thanks Tom,

- Kev

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

GM:

OOC: I’ll give Kevin first right of refusal to answer that question. It’s his subplot entirely! J

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

Clone:

OOC: My subplot? LOL No way, this is your world Jeff, and I'm just live'n in it! But if you are going to through some of the burden of response of my shoulders then I have only one answer for everyone regarding Rachael Ray's marital status and the possibility of a Rachael / Clone relationship - a good story teller always knows when to drag out part of his story in order to build up the anticipation for a dramatic outcome; you should always leave 'em sitting on the edge of their seats . . . so with any luck we'll find out more in Issue 151 about 'Rachael and Alexander' . . . maybe . . . possibly . . . we'll see =P

Could it really happen?

- Kev

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

Menagerie:

OOC:

Don't you mean 'Rachander'?

Tom

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

Clone:

OOC:

lol Nice! I could definitely see the tabloids using that.

- Kev

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

Slate:

Being a minor, Slate is not to be allowed to be a part of the animated series.

Sentinel asked Ajay, a CHESS Rook, “Can you 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?”

Slate overhears Sentinel and Symbiote talking about a possible trip to Germany to investigate something regarding Clone…, “I’d like to go if it’s possible, doesn’t sound that dangerous… Could I? I’m sure if dad’s going he wouldn’t mind and mom would be OK with it. I won’t be in the way…”

Slate and Symbiote got pizza and Slate disintegrated the cameras of some paparazzi! The next day, not surprisingly, he received bad press that wondered about his humanity, and by extension, his mother’s. [Weakness: Prejudice]

Flashback Pizza with Slate and Symbiote:

Symbiote looks out the window at the surprised photographers, holding nothing where moments ago their cameras had been. He looks back at Ethan, who seems very pleased with himself.

“Ethan,” Hal says, “Did you do that?”

Ethan nods his head not looking quite as pleased, pulling a piece of pepperoni off the pizza and sticking it in his mouth with his fingers. He doesn’t look up to meet Hal’s eyes.

“How did you make them vanish?” Hal asks.

Ethan Shrugs, “They didn’t really disappear he says, I just digitized them.”

“You did what to them?” Hal says not trying to appear overly concerned as he reaches for another slice of pizza.

“You know, like mother is teaching me, the way computers convert images or sounds to a discrete set of points, so they can be reproduced. I just converted them to a digital representation of the physical object,” Ethan says.

Hal nods knowingly, “Well, let’s not do that again until we talk to your parents about this. They will probably have an opinion on your digitizing objects, OK?”

Ethan agrees, and they finish their meal pretty much in silence.

As they return to the vault, Ethan looks up at Symbiote and asks, “Did I do something wrong?”

“I think I’ll let your father have that discussion with you Ethan, but I enjoyed having dinner with you, and I hope we can do it again soon,” Hal says. “Next time we’ll shoot for something a little more private.”

Ethan smiles at him, “I’d like that.”

Symbiote, Sentinel, Slingshot and Doc Rocket began to plan another expedition to the Digital Zone!!!

Menagerie asked to be included in the plans. Symbiote began designing an amazing exploration vehicle, but Slingshot expressed that it might be too ambitious an undertaking. [Replies? Resolve, please.]

Slate lies on the examination table, totally nude save a thin sheet covering his midsection. Around the room, x-rays, CAT scan results, and sensors all show what is going on, inside Slate’s body. Slingshot, Nanite, Symbiote, Doc Rocket, and Shelley stand nearby looking at papers strewn across another nearby table.

“It’s really astounding Doc Rocket says, he has all of the organs a human would have, but they do not appear to be fulfilling the same functions.” As to his digestive systems, food is taken in normally, and is somehow processed and utilized to power the machines that make up his body. Very efficiently I might add. He breathes as a human would, taking in oxygen, but most of his body functions appear to be anaerobic.”

“He has a circulatory system very similar to humans, but when we analyzed his blood, which is O+ by the way, we found these.” He holds up a test tube that appears to have a silvery liquid in it. He gestures to a monitor connected to a nearby electron microscope, revealing that it actually contains very small machines, nanobots. “These appear to do most of the work the cells of an organic body would.”

“Shelley did most of the evaluation of the neurological, skeletal, and muscular systems… Shelley.”

Everyone turns to face Shelley.

Shelley moves to the display of the CAT scan and motions to the display with a laser pointer. “His brain appears to be some type of artificial neural network. Neurological signals are not sent through a central spinal cord, but are rather routed almost directly to any area of the body via direct connection. So far, we’ve been unable to identify how exactly this works, but we are sure that he feels pain, and that he has almost absolute control of all of his bodily functions. He can for instance stop breathing for long periods of time, far beyond human parameters. His knowledge base appears to increasing at a dramatic rate, not exponentially, but close to it, he is already approaching what we would consider a gifted level. He is quite remarkable.” On the table, a smile crosses Ethan's face.

She continues to the x-rays. “His skeletal system is very similar to a human, with some slight modifications. The bones appear to be mostly solid, and we can’t be sure their makeup without taking a sample. We didn’t really want to be that invasive at this point.”

“As to the muscular system, we do not see tendons attaching the muscles to the bones, they appear to be connected directly, but they appear mostly normal, both in size and strength. This may change. With all of the working out he’s been doing with Slingshot in the gym here, and with Nathan, he is growing stronger, but the rate appears to be pretty much on par with human development.”

“We have not had the opportunity to evaluate his reproductive systems, but everything seems to be fully functional. He is not truly an android, but more a cross between a human and a machine. Parts of him appear to be almost totally human. His tissue closely resembles human tissue. As Doc said, his organs don’t appear to be fulfilling the same functions they would in a human body. At the same time, they are functioning; we’re just not sure exactly what they are doing. His heart beats, his lungs expand and contract and all of his senses appear to on par for a human at his point developmentally, which we are estimating is between 15 and 16 years of age.”

Nanite lays her hand on Slate’s Arm, and he looks up at her, their eyes reflecting each other… “My baby, are you OK?”

“They have not harmed me in any way mother, and I find the results most interesting,” He responds.

“Slate you can get dressed now,” Doc Rockets says. Slate slides his legs off the table and holds the sheet around him as he has seen his father do in their apartment. He crosses the room and enters a smaller changing room.

After he is gone Doc Rocket continues,” It is apparent that he has an affinity for computers; we used some simple games to test his reflexes and knowledge. I would not leave him alone with one connected to the outside world at this point. I don’t know that anything would happen, but I don’t know that it wouldn’t… And there are sufficient resources here, such as the ones Nan has been using to educate him that are shielded.”

“Shelley and I will continue to review the results, and let you know if we find out anything further. At this time, He is what he appears to be, a young man, curious about the world. You should treat him as such.”

“With all respect Doctor, I don’t think we need you to tell us how to treat our son,” Nanite replies. She looks to Slingshot for support and he puts his arm around her shoulders. “I realize this is new to all of us, but I think we more than anyone know what he is going through, and what he needs. Thank you for the information, it is nice to know a little more about his physiology.”

Ethan opens the door, still trying to slide his shoes on without untying them. “Can we get something to eat?” He asks. “Pizza sounds great!” Hal smiles at Ethan.

“Alright Slingshot replies,” Running his hand through Ethan’s hair; “but this time we respect other people’s property.”

“Yes Sir,” Ethan replies, hanging his head a little. “Do I really have to send them apology letters?”

“You do, and you’re lucky we’re not making you pay for the cameras, it would take a lot of chores to replace that equipment. We have to think of others, and the impacts of our actions have on them, or we run the risk of becoming what we stand against,” his father says with a stern voice. He smiles at Nan over Ethan’s shoulder. “Now let’s go get that pizza.”

OOC: I'll post actions after he is more aware of what's going on.

Jon

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

GM:

OOC: This was awesome. Thanks!

Best,

Jeff

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

Clone:

OOC:

Wow! That level of intelligence inside someone with the emotional development and social skills of an infant/young child? That sounds very scary and extremely dangerous - not someone I would want to be spending a ton of time with. It all sounds like the beginning of some kind of crazy horror movie or something lol ;)

Actually this almost reminds me of that movie 'The Lawnmower Man' =O

- Kev

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

GM:

OOC:

Or that Twilight Zone episode with the omnipowerful kid in the suburbs.

Can't wait for Slate's first tantrum. :)

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

Slingshot:

OOC: hahaha! I imagine it won't just be cameras this time..

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

Lightning Strike:

OOC: Wasn't this one of the first Star Trek episodes? "I can make you all go away!!!"

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

GM:

OOC: Charlie X. I think Twilight Zone might have been first. But the idea of a terrifying, all powerful child who can destroy your very being on a whim isn't a new concept to any parent.

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

Menagerie:

OOC: Supreme Power explored this theme for a few issues as well.

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

GM:

OOC:

>"I can make you all go away!!!"

Another favorite quote from Star Trek also involved children: "I'm a grup. And I want to help."

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

Lightning Strike:

OOC: I think that was the same episode that had the sequence Seth loved to quote.

"Bonk, Bonk on the head!!"

"No Bonk Bonk on the head."

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

Sentinel:

OOC: Half right.

"Bonk, Bonk on the head!!"

But the other line was

"No blah blah blah!"

I think Kirk was giving a speech to the kids and they started chanting back 'blah blah blah' to what he was saying... too bad we can't do that as adults :)

Guess it’s time to watch some of the classic Treks again... haven't seen them in so long maybe I've forgotten parts of them. No channels seem to play them here that I come across... although I don't spend much time channel surfing anymore.

Seth

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

Slingshot:

OOC:

Cartoon:

1) Scott is all for the cartoon. He loved cartoons as a child. Regarding power modifications: No talk about the regeneration powers.

2) If there's any toys, he wants one of them to be modeled to Stretch Armstrong's back in the day rubber toy (Picture attached). Too many fond memories. Also I'm good with a blanket which has Scott's stretched face and hands/feet in the corners. It's got to be one of those nice warm/cuddly plush blankets.

Parallel universe:

We haven't spoken about this yet. Scott would like to first have a look and see if the war still rages on between Father and Son and potentially have a way to scout the place, before jumping into another universe halfcocked and completely unprepared like we did last time.

Wedding:

At this point, Scott hasn't received the information needed to do anything.

Once the action starts, he will move one of two ways. First, he will turn to Nanite and ask her to stay put and protect the priest. His main goal is to protect the bystanders. So if it means one of the following: that he will focus on a single big baddy, if he/she/it is causing lots of collateral damage, or if they are targeting specific people, Scott will try to block any attacks where needed.

If he stretches, how much of the people can he cover?

Anything else: if Strike forwards the info, then he might change his tactics. I'll try to come up a speech tonight.

Stephaney/Slingshot.

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

GM:

OOC: As I mentioned, please assume this knowledge. Strike will no doubt tell you guys asap.

It's just that Tony will wait til Wednesday.

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

Lightning Strike:

OOC: I was thinking Thursday or Friday!! Only kidding, I will be posting tonight.

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

Avatar:

OOC: I forgot about that toy! GREAT commercials. Ah, for sweet innocence of childhood.

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

Slingshot:

[ooc]Assuming that we have all been alerted... Do we have our comm devices with us? assuming we don't..[ooc]

Scott will lean over to my best man (Nathan) and ask him to put the CHESS teams on guard duty in high alert. They are to keep the riff raff outside the church. I'll also ask him to make sure that he gets us all our comm devices if we are missing them and flag Felicity Chase that we are in emergency mode and we will be speeding up the ceremony.

I'll ask the priest to speed things up directly. Once the "you may kiss the bride" moment goes, Scott will go in full action mode, go outside and pile into the bastards. My general steps are still valid:

1) If inside the church: Protect the bystanders, or take out/tackle the main collateral damage person (doesn't have to be a strong person, if it is someone with vibration tearing down the church...)

2) if outside the church, I will attempt to divert as much firepower away from the church by making a target of myself (since they are supposed to kill a Vanguard member)

Stephane

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

Sentinel:

Kirk agrees with Avatar and the others about limiting info about their characters. His cartoon persona will stick to his energy construct powers. He wants to be sure that Vanguard has final approval on use of their images in the cartoons and further marketing including international markets and that they get approval power on plotlines, etc (hey, if it’s good enough for George Lucas …) and that they get appropriate percentage of profits, etc … he will suggest at this point that profits from it is used to fund REACH projects with approval of his teammates.

“Perhaps before we risk an international incident here and with everything else on our plate we can have Grey look into having the building and area checked out low key. Surely Chess or one of her allies has access to undercover agents in the area that can get us some photos and check the area for current activity.”

Grey grumbled, “Haven’t I had your back all this time, kid?”

Grey’s off-the-cuff remark actually hit home with Kirk more than he expected. He saw what amounted to a hurt expression on Kirk’s face, not at Grey, but rather at himself and Kirk replied, “Yes. Yes, you really have. And I hope you know how much I do appreciate it. Even if it goes unsaid most of the time. There is no way I’d be where I am today without all you’ve done for me… and for all of us.” And after all of Kirk’s tirade, at that moment, Grey remembered just how old Kirk really was and that he wasn’t dealing with another typical collateral agency supervisor … and why he did have his back.

“I do understand. Thanks for trying here. I suppose after we get through things here perhaps Hal and I can pay a visit to Chess Castle to assuage some of our concerns and see just what is going through their minds and happening there. Do you think it would be possible to get access to the MEDUSA agency mission statement and what is available to other agencies? I’m not looking for top secret access here, but a bit beyond what I’m sure they’ll let me see now. I’d like to see the picture they are presenting to their sister agencies as to what they are...” Kirk said as thoughts from Sun Tzu came to his mind, “know your enemy”.

Sentinel and Zephyr were a couple. When Sentinel asked her if they should tell Hal and the rest of Vanguard, she replied, “Why not? We’re not doing anything wrong. Unless of course you’re ashamed of me!” she said jokingly. “Let’s tell everyone before the wedding.” [Reply, Sentinel?]

At that moment Kirk pulled Shelley close to him looking intensely into her beautiful eyes and said, “Ms Harper, let it be known that I consider myself the luckiest man alive and I’d be happy to shout it from the rooftops.” As he spoke those words Kirk was actually a bit startled by how strongly he felt them. “Let’s tell them all.”

Symbiote, Sentinel, Slingshot and Doc Rocket began to plan another expedition to the Digital Zone!!!

Kirk agrees with Scott’s idea of trying to monitor and find out what has happened there and what is going on prior to entering the zone, if a way can be figured out.

“Your duty is to defend Nature, aye. But the manner of your death has shaped your focus. Distorted it. Because you died defending animals you think your duty is to defend the animal kingdom. But there is so much more to Nature than that. Open your mind, boy. What do you think Nature is and how we might best serve it?” [Reply, Menagerie?]

OOC: Jeff – you are too cool! Awesome!

Every seat in the monolithic, 133 year old, Neo-Gothic, Roman Catholic Cathedral was taken. Shelley went down the aisle first and everyone stood up and turned around to see the beautiful bride.

OOC: Tony, skip the next few paragraphs, it’s a loooove comic entry. You’ve been warned:

Through the walls, Kirk could ‘see’ Shelley as she waited to make her entrance. In the weeks since their becoming a couple and as his feelings toward her grew it was as if his energy sense had ‘locked on’ to her. Whenever she came within his range, he just knew. And here and now, well, the whole world was waiting for her walk. Although Kirk knew the exact moment he would see her and was ready, he was still unprepared. His heart skipped a beat. He swallowed hard. She was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen in his life. She took his breath away. As she walked down the aisle, Kirk couldn’t take his eyes off her. For Kirk, the room was silent. All of the flashes from cameras, the movement of onlookers, all of it, it was as if it wasn’t there. As she approached her eyes finally met his and she smiled. And he could feel himself smiling back. And the rest of the room began to move again.

OOC: Ok Tony. You can come back.

“Go to St. Patrick’s Cathedral immediately. Any of you that kills a member of Vanguard passes the audition and becomes a member of Homicide for Hire. Good luck.”

Kirk had never been so glad that Shelley was no longer a member of Vanguard. Kirk raised his communicator and began to speak, “Ajay its happening. Eyes in the sky ready. They are on their way. Let us and the Knights know what you pick up on aerial feed. Keep NYPD in the loop as necessary. Drake, you on this?”

OOC-IC: Since we all assumed something was going to happen, I’m assuming we had Ajay on the satellites monitoring things around the area. At this point he should be able to give advance notice of any villains flying in – perhaps on the ground too if they are obtrusive enough. I figure Drake would likely have been upper command who would have stayed at the base to coordinate once things hit. (certainly your choice to allow or veto, but it made sense to me given his background) He may even be able to determine identities if they are known felons but we don’t Vanguard doesn’t recognize them if we send photos via our communicators. We’ve got the NYPD around and on crowd control. I say the Knights have orders to assist with crowds and low-level villains using a hit and run strategy. We should have an advantage from what Strike relayed in that the villains didn’t know they were going to be sent so they really shouldn’t arrive en masse. At this point our strategy would be to intercept and take them out together as they arrive. Hopefully we get fortunate here and maybe we can get a number of lower level thugs taken out quickly which discourages a bigger attack (ie morale rolls for the villains – they arrive to see Vanguard and the Knights having already made quick work of their cohorts and turn and leave before becoming involved). Likely some of the ‘tougher’ guys will continue but perhaps the herds will be thinned before they even start. And hopefully as Vanguard engages their foes the Knights can take shots at some of the villains flying around the battle. One shot and they move on so they don’t become a target.

When Kirk first exits the church he will try to use his energy sense to look for extremes to pick out the possible villains if they are concealed – if any of them have a powerful energy source as their weapon, he should be able to pick them out of the crowd, etc. If any of that is unclear let me know to explain it, but that's how I see our best bet here as they start to arrive and the initial strategy.

Seth

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Slingshot:

OOC: One more thing: We have the POTUS in attendance. This means that we need to alert the secret service.

If we expect an imminent threat to the area with regards to Vanguard, they may want to take the POTUS away from the church and the general area.

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Symbiote:

On the matter of Doctor X: At this point, with Doctor X messing around with the metagene (something Hal has come to feel almost proprietary about), Hal is more than willing to be part of any covert effort to find out what's going on at this mysterious bunker. Plus, Alex is suffering--this isn't something he wants to wait on. OOC: (Presumably any such efforts will at first be sidelined and then, perhaps, sped up when Clone walks into the Soviet embassy and "defects" in the near future).

On the matter of Mother Russia: "Mother, we just hired a publicity consultant--God help us--so maybe she can help you with some aspects of this. If you want to call her we'll give you a card, she left about a million lying around," Hal says. "I'm not much of a fashion designer, but as for a new name? How about Knockout?" he says, looking her over approvingly and remembering that Talon has removed himself from the playing field.

On the matter of the Digital Zone expedition: Hal agrees that it is perhaps prudent to wait until we have more information about current events in the Zone. He'll continue blueprint work on the craft, though, and he'll also design a few probes to launch into the zone, hopefully to get some telemetry about the current situation (and maybe catch site of Nemesis, Cosmonaut I, or whoever).

And then there's this:

“Go to St. Patrick’s Cathedral immediately. Any of you that kills a member of Vanguard passes the audition and becomes a member of Homicide for Hire. Good luck.”

When given the information by Lightning Strike, Hal begins to seethe. If Slingshot will allow it he'll ask that the ceremony be stopped for a moment, and that the team get into a huddle, of sorts.

"This is a two pronged attack, on both our lives and our reputations," Hal whispers. "Even if we win the fight, there's a good chance that innocent bystanders could be hurt or the cathedral could be damaged, and all the hard work we've put into good publicity could be instantly wiped out. I can just see the headlines in every paper that Silas Caine has a controlling interest in--'Metahumans Destroy Famed NY Landmark, Dozens Injured' or some such crap. Well, it Ain't. Gonna. Happen."

He turns to Slingshot. "Scott, enjoy your wedding. I'm sorry most of us aren't going to see it, but we'll all get drunk and watch the video later. When you're done saying your vows, excuse yourself and come out and join us," he continues.

"Kirk is right. We have to stop these imbeciles outside, before they get a chance to wreck everything, before most people--especially the paparazzi--know it's even happening. We've got to give them some targets to shoot at and we have to stop them before they put the slightest crack in even one pane of stained glass," Symbiote says.

While still whispering, his voice raises slightly. "And today, gentlemen--today we play full contact. "These @$#&%*!$ are coming here, to a house of peace, and trying to kill us and disrupt the wedding of two people we love. That gets them more than just the normal thumpin' and cuffin'. I'm not saying we fight back with lethal force, but my heart isn't going to break if the CHESS Castle infirmary is at full capacity tonight."

Assuming everybody is in agreement, Hal starts moving to the rear of the sanctuary. When he reaches the stairs to the bell tower he starts running up the flights. Dropping his tuxedo coat on one floor, his vest on another, his shirt on still another until his costume underneath is revealed. He reaches the roof, activates Talon's telemetry and launches himself into the air, swooping around the venerable church and the surrounding area, using Talon's enhanced vision to scan for possible enemies.

Alright, you bastards, he thinks to himself. Come get some.

Viva Vanguard (and let's kick some ass!)

Greg

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Lightning Strike:

OOC: Wow, this must mean that I have been late for all 150 issues.

Anyway, Strike will of course let everyone know about the plan at the wedding. Thankfully, I have not read all of the e-mails so I can play in character.

Once the cell phone rings, Strike will let all of Vanguard know what is going on. Strike will also imbed a coded message to his counterpart, Strike Omega, to let him know that he can be part of this. The whole point of letting his counterpart know what is going on is to make sure that mistakes are not being redone. There are too many similarities that we can't be ignoring.

Strike will leave his uncle to the mercy of Vanguard.

Strike will go to the wedding in character of the silent assassin and hope that his counterpart wants to get everyone ready for giving up all they have,

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GM:

OOC:

Re: Loooove comic:

I've created a monster! :)

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Symbiote:

OOC: You will be tried by a jury of your peers for this someday, Jeff.

I haven't read the wedding of Reed and Sue Richards in years, but as I recall it was a total knockdown, drag out action fest. I confess, I'm kind of hoping this will be too.

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Clone:

Vanguard Animated Series

Clone gives his continued support to the idea of a Vanguard animated television series and then asks Felicity in a very sincere tone, “So . . . who is it that will be speaking for us in these television automation series? I am thinking maybe it is Michael Clarke Duncan that can be capturing of true essence of all that is me; you are agreeing in this, da?”

Doctor ‘X’

Confident that his friends will make the right decisions and ask the right questions, Clone watches on silently as Sentinel and Symbiote help him investigate his suspicions about the mysterious Doctor ‘X’.

( OOC: Clone wasn’t really sure how to proceed with investigating this matter so he is sitting back a bit and trying not to interfere with Sentinel and Symbiote as they make their inquiries )

Mother Russia

Symbiote arranged a meeting between Vanguard and Mother Russia, who was sad to hear that Talon had quit. Of Doctor X she said: “He was very mysterious, as Clone could tell you. Often absent for long periods of time. A brilliant mind. He can invent superheroes. Or should I say super powers.”

She also said, “I want a new costume and name to disassociate myself from my former homeland, but can’t decide what.”

Symbiote thought about her request for a moment and replied, "Mother, we just hired a publicity consultant--God help us--so maybe she can help you with some aspects of this. If you want to call her we'll give you a card, she left about a million lying around," Hal says. "I'm not much of a fashion designer, but as for a new name? How about Knockout?" he says, looking her over approvingly and remembering that Talon has removed himself from the playing field.

Clones eyes lit up in agreement as he burst out, ”Yes! That is being most amazing of names!” He then smiled at her, tapped her on the hand and reached for a pen and a piece of paper before he continued, ”I have been watching of many episodes of superheroic automated series of heroes and I am thinking I am knowing of a good costume design for you.” He then works feverishly on a design for a few minutes and as he presents it to her, he says, ”This is only quick sketch of course, but I am knowing that you are getting of my ideas.”

( OOC: see attached art for his costume suggestion )

Rachael Ray

As Nanite walks down the aisle Clone waves at her, smiles, and then leans back; out of sight of his date, and points to Rachael Ray as if to say,”Oh my God! Look who’s here - she actually came! WOO-HOO!” As Nanite smiled back at the ‘multiplying man of mirth’ with an expression of both shock and joy on her face, Clone whispered to her

( OOC: . . . err . . . not really sure where to go with this whole Rachael Ray thing lol. Hey Jeff, any chance you might be willing to give me a hand on this one? )

OOC:

“Go to St. Patrick’s Cathedral immediately.

Any of you that kills a member of Vanguard passes the audition and becomes a member of Homicide for Hire.

Good luck.”

If he actually has to kill one of us, I would imagine that Clone would be the most likely candidate since I’m sure that Strike knows that Clone can survive the death of one of his duplicates. Clone isn’t expecting any trouble at all and is completely consumed by the presence of Rachael Ray – he would probably be taken by complete surprise if someone attacked him.

Talk to you all soon,

- Kev

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Slate Character Sheet!

2011-12-18T09:29:00.001-06:00

Slate!

This unique life form is the son of Slingshot and Nanite, the nephew of Nemesis, and the grandson of the Entity, IT. Like his mother, he is a hybrid between our world and cyberspace. Unlike his mother, he is more human, one closer step in the evolution from machine to man. Upon birth, he quickly adapted to assume an adult shape, but still had the mind of a child. He is a tabula rasa. He is Slate!

Secret Identity: Ethan Brock

Gender: Male?

Born: 2011

Height: 5’10”

Weight: 160 lbs.

Basic Hits: 4

Origin Type: Mutant? Designed?

Personality Archetype: Childlike tabula rasa

Level: 1

Experience Points: 0

Player: Jon

Super Powers and Super Skills:

1) Body Power: Human/Android Hybrid Body: Slate is a cross between a human and an android!

-His natural healing rate is doubled.

-He can recover damage up to below negative Endurance Hit Points if his body is still in one piece.

-Immunity from some attacks on human biology, like Paralysis Ray and Death Touch.

-Form seemingly adapts to slowly mimic those life forms around him.

a) Heightened Endurance: +15

b) Life Support: This power gives protection as indicated on the combat table, in addition to providing air, nutrition, and other essentials for effectively unlimited periods of time.

2) Heightened Sense of Comprehension: Can learn incredibly fast. Skills may be added in minutes or hours, depending on the skill. Number of skills remains unchanged.

3) Disintegration Ray: This is the ability to vaporize solids and liquids. Each point of damage scored destroys a point of structural rating, ignoring the Structural Invulnerability of the target substance.

Curiously, living things struck with Disintegration energy do not vaporize--they disrupt, taking full damage from the attack, but not beginning to disintegrate until they are no longer living.

Disintegration Ray has a range of S inches, and does 1d20 damage. PR=2 per shot.

Weaknesses:

1) Prejudice: Slate’s reaction modifiers on the Charisma table from characters on both sides become negative. Heroes subject to prejudice are looked upon by society as dangerous elements, perhaps even criminals. If their Charisma scores are high their allies and the people they protect will be convinced that "it's all part of some plot" and in fact the evidence will tend to become twisted to support this theory. The percent chance of another character overcoming his prejudiced reactions to this character equals that character's Intelligence score. Each character encountered may make one check to see through his prejudice, with a failure denying any further attempts by that character until he is presented with better reasons than he had previously.

2) Psychological Limitation: Childlike: Slate has no history in the human experience. He has never been taunted, made fun of, insulted, or loved. He does not know how to respond to any social interactions, and is always watching others for how to respond. Also, Slate starts the game with no skills, but may gain skills normally as per the house rules.

3) Special: Slate is the “grandson” of the Entity, IT.

Statistics:

Strength      15

Endurance   25

Agility          15

Intelligence  18

Charisma      12

Hit Points:  35

Power Points: 73

Carrying Capacity:  470 lbs.

Hand-to-Hand Damage: d6

Accuracy: +2

Damage Modifier: +2

Detect Hidden: 15%

Detect Danger: 19%

Reaction Modifiers: -1 from Good, -1 from Evil

Movement: Ground: 55” per turn.

Healing Rate:  5.6 hit points per day

Occupation: none currently.

Skills: English language, (He currently has 6 open slots. One of which will be his Primary Skill)

Luck Points: 1.2

Personality: Slate has not experienced anything... He is fascinated by everything (colors, textures, sounds, scents, etc...). This, along with his immense curiosity, makes him easily distracted.